This lavished illustrated book is a unique and intriguing history of crewel work, a form of embroidery that has been popular since the 17th century. Until now, most books on the subject have concentrated on basic designs, specific historic periods, or American patterns, and have only briefly mentioned the fact that English crewel is the original form of this fascination type of embroidery. Here is the complete story of the crewel, from the Bayeux Tapestry to the present. The wonderful variety of the crewel wood designs worked by English embroiderers is fully reflected in the magnificent illustrations in this book. They range from the horsemen of the Bayeux Tapestry and the leafy branches and exotic birds of traditional 17th century patterns to 18th century needle paintings and the richly elaborate hangings of William Morris. For todays embroiderer, constantly looking for new ides, details from these designs are reproduced as line drawings. They can be used alone or combined with others to make larger repeating patterns. Excellent stitch samplers are also included.

crewel embroidery england