Encyclopedia of Needlework

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

20776

Title

Encyclopedia of Needlework

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A comprehensive guide to needlework by Thérèse de Dillmont, this encyclopedia offers verbal and pictorial instructions for plain and fancy embroidery. Featuring original patterns, detailed stitch explanations, and advice on materials like D.M.C cottons, it empowers workers of all ages to master techniques from flat stitch to tatting.

Summary up to 500 words

Thérèse de Dillmont's *Encyclopedia of Needlework* addresses a significant gap in the field by compiling years of study into a comprehensive guide for female workers. The volume aims to instruct readers in every branch of needlework, ranging from simple mending to complex gold embroidery. Dillmont emphasizes that while material choice is important, stitch technique is paramount; she highly recommends D.M.C cottons for their versatility, noting they can often replace wool, linen, or silk. The text provides detailed instructions on a wide array of stitches, including flat stitch, encroaching satin stitch, Oriental stitch, plaited stitch, and mosaic stitch. It covers diverse international styles such as Persian, Chinese, and Turkish embroidery, offering specific color palettes and material lists for each pattern. Practical advice is woven throughout, covering topics like washing colored cottons to test dye fastness, selecting shuttles for tatting, and maintaining delicate lace without damaging picots. Dillmont balances theoretical knowledge with useful, reproducible designs drawn from private collections and artistic productions. She assures readers that even difficult reproductions become manageable with careful study of the text. The book serves as both an educational manual and a repository of artistic designs, ensuring that needlework remains accessible and achievable for diligent practitioners of all ages.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/20776.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg20776.epub

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Categories

• Needlework