Royal School of Needlework
Welcome to the Royal School of Needlework To teach, practise and promote the art of hand embroidery
Jacobean Crewelwork
Crewelwork - introducing a range of stitches and an element of shading, crewelwork is an ideal technique for beginners new to embroidery. Worked in crewel wool on linen, this decorative technique is one of the earliest forms of surface stitching. Basic designs can include between six to ten crewelwork stitches and a range of colours is used for tonal accents. A range of surface stitches and an element of shading makes it an ideal technique with which to start.
Jacobean-style crewelwork - the "Jacobean" style developed in the 17th century influenced by pictures of exotic flora and fauna on imported Indian chintzes. English embroiderers added insects and quirky animals to the traditional "Tree of Life" foliage designs. Using two main colours in a range of tonal shades, Jacobean has been a popular style for centuries but crewel stitches also work well with contemporary designs.
The RSN Essential Stitch Guide - Crewelwork by Jacqui McDonald is now available from our online shop.
Learn Jacobean crewelwork at the RSN
