Blackwork, a form of monochromatic embroidery which originated in Spain in the sixteenth century, has recently experienced a revival in popularity.
Pat Langford takes you through a brief illustrated history of blackwork, in the beginning worked in one colour (most often black, occasionally dark red or blue) as decoration around the cuffs and collars of linen articles. She moves from there to a series of modern projects including workboxes, jewel cases, cushion covers, evening bags and decorative panels. Her designs incorporate modern versions of blackwork stitches with an eclectic mix of techniques such as beading, wrapping, layering, fabric painting, adding threads and fabrics to produce richly textured items all depending ultimately on their blackwork base.
Separate sections demonstrate the use of photographs and sketches to create your own designs, and the use of graph paper to create your own stitch patterns.
A book to inspire embroiderers and fabric artists, from beginners to advanced practitioners seeking a new direction.
