Blackwork Embroidery at FoxDogIntroduction
I really enjoy blackwork. I like the geometry of the counted blackwork, and I like the contrast of the black thread against the white background. Perhaps any old Goth would like blackwork...
Blackwork isn't hard to do, skillwise. It does require (if doing a geometric piece) the ability to follow the design guideline and count threads. It also requires patience as you don't want your thread to tangle or snarl if you are doing a reversible piece. Non-geometric patterns are much more forgiving.
Some thought is required when ending and beginning threads on the reversible pieces. Knotting won't do, and you don't want to make a markedly thicker place on the design, so whipping the thread is right out as well. Everyone comes up with their own technique for this. Mine is to take extremely small stitches (one over each thread) for a short distance. This holds up well, and I've washed some of the pieces on which I've done this many times. No runs yet!
Large Projects
These projects have all taken at least 3 months, and sometimes years to complete. They involve fairly intricate patterning, although the stitches used are still very simple.
Click on the Picture to go to each project's webpage.
My first blackwork Project: A breadcloth
A black (and gold) worked Coif: Elizabeth c. 1595-1600
Smaller Projects
These projects were all finished in under 3 months, usually under a month. They use fairly simple patterns, and usually only use Holbein stitch.
Click on the Picture to go to each project's webpage.
A pair of blackworked Cuffs
