Art in Needlework: A Book about Embroidery

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

28269

Title

Art in Needlework: A Book about Embroidery

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A practical guide to embroidery, this text-book defines the craft as both a handicraft and an art. It explores decorative stitching techniques, design principles, and the artistic application of stitches through samplers and historical examples, offering instruction for needleworkers and designers.

Summary up to 500 words

Published in 1900 by Lewis F. Day with the cooperation of Mary Buckle, *Art in Needlework: A Book about Embroidery* redefines the craft as a serious art form rather than a mere idle accomplishment. The authors systematically classify embroidery stitches into logical groups—including canvas, crewel, chain, satin, and buttonhole stitches—providing detailed descriptions and diagrams for each. A central feature of the text is the use of extensive samplers that display stitches on both their front and back, illustrating their versatility and natural groupings. These visual aids are supported by historical examples ranging from ancient Coptic tapestries to modern Indian work, demonstrating the artistic evolution of the craft. The book emphasizes that while practical utility is important, the primary goal of embroidery is beauty. It covers complex techniques such as couching gold, appliqué, and laid-work, explaining how to manipulate threads to create shading, relief, and pictorial effects. The authors argue that design must be adapted to the specific stitch and material, noting how needlework influences pattern and vice versa. For instance, the text details how gold thread can be shaded from yellowish to coppery tones by varying the color of the stitching thread, and how couching can mimic the appearance of tapestry or filigree. Special attention is given to the application of these techniques in figure embroidery and church work, where legibility from a distance is essential. The text also explores the use of appliqué, describing it not as an inferior form but as a distinct craft that makes great demands on design. It acknowledges contributions from authorities at South Kensington and various artists, serving as a comprehensive manual for students, needleworkers, and designers. By bridging the gap between technical execution and artistic design, the book elevates embroidery to the status of a legitimate art, suitable for those who esteem it highly and wish to understand its principles deeply.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/28269.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg28269.epub

Download EPUB

Downloaded at

2026-07-03 11:18 UTC

Categories

• Needlework
• Embroidery