Blackwork Embroidery

Welcome to an introduction blackwork embroidery!

With the talented Kay Dudman you will be taught this historical form of stitching that dates back centuries. Historically, Blackwork has also been known as “Spanish work” as it was popularised by Katherine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry VIII.

Portraits of Jane Seymour and Elizabeth I show that Blackwork continued in popularity for some time, and it was commonly used on the garments of the ladies and gentlemen at court. As well as being decorative, it also served a practical function of reinforcing cuffs and collars.

Although the designs appear intricate, they are worked using a repertoire of simple stitches, such as Holbein stitch (also known as double-running stitch), back stitch and stem stitch to outline areas to be filled with geometric patterns.

Shading can be created by using more or fewer strands of embroidery floss, or by gradually reducing the components of a geometric pattern so that the designs appear to fade into the background of the fabric.

It is traditionally done with black threads on linen, but contrary to its name, it does not have to be done in black thread alone but colours and metallics as well bringing it to the 21st century. In this class you will learn the basic stitches and patterns so you can start your journey in Blackwork embroidery.