Both traditional and modern styles are presented in this absorbing introduction to the warm colors and intricate designs of crewel embroidery. Written by an experienced teacher for both the novice and the experienced needleworker, this well-organized and thorough volume demonstrates how to approach the basics of tools, fabrics, and stitches, and how to plan and execute original designs. In a direct and straightforward manner, the author defines essential embroidery terms and the use of different needles and types of fabrics. A wide selection of stitches and their variations--looped, flat, knotted, couching, filler and weaving--are demonstrated, offering a wide range of textural effects. After carefully describing and illustrating each crewel stitch, the author shows the reader how to use the stitches in one or more of the illustrated samplers. The book then progresses to more involved designs and how to develop them. Detailed guidelines for adapting and transferring designs and for composing original patterns make it easy to become an accomplished embroiderer. Hundreds of illustrations show items suitable for crewelwork--a vanity bench, a chair, the yoke of a dress, a purse, and many others--as well as complete designs for a cornucopia, a pheasant, flowers, animals, and an enchanting forest scene. Each pattern is accompanied by detailed, step-by-step instructions. An informative section on color explains the terms and principles of harmony, contrast, and balance and shows how to apply these principles in embroidery. Washing, blocking and finishing are discussed and a helpful index of stitches is appended, making 'Crewel Embroidery' the definitive reference for novice and professional alike. Audrey A. Francini is an embroidery designer and teacher, certified by the Embroiderers Guild of America. She has taught at national and regional seminars, workshops, and schools for many years, and she conducts correspondence courses in crewel developed for the Valentine Museum of Richmond, Virginia.
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