Crewel - An embroidery with history

The history of Crewel embroidery

A person who grew up in London in the XNUMXth century would surely be one of the many who knew Crewel embroidery all too well. The period was actually the heyday of this art form identified by its complexity. This type of stitching refers to wool that has been twisted tightly. Simple hobbyists will create yarn to be productive in their hobby alongside professional designers who make a living from it.

At the time when England began its barter relations with India, stylists began to integrate wild elements inspired by it into Crewel embroidery. If you can get a sample, you will most likely see what Mother Nature has to offer, such as plants and animals. One of the most popular was the Tree of Life pattern. The Hindus, in return, followed some versions that were all conceived by the English. Basically, the art form of the following years was a fusion of two cultures.

Crewel embroidery turned out to be very famous to the point that British citizens who were unemployed but had knowledge of the tapestry industry revolted. In 1722, the country was forced to ban the entry of cloth from a foreign land. It then marked the beginning of a type of domestic sewing. Meanwhile, the conquerors of the United States created their own version motivated by the wonders that were seen everywhere such as rabbits, deer and squirrels, among others.

If you like Crewel or Jacobean embroidery, learn how to do it with Embroidering with Ile:

free sewing embroidery

Considered free sewing, Crewel embroidery can be ideal on both linen and cotton. The fabric has to be strong to support the weight of the hem. Chiffon, flannel, georgette, stockinette, lawn, organza and satin, to name a few, are not applicable. In fact, special needles are required that specifically must have sharp edges and huge eyes, like chenille, for example.

Often the edges of Crewel embroidery have to be screen printed. Otherwise, you can transfer it to any normal sheet via pens containing water-soluble ink. You can also use a method called "pinch and skip." With the technique, the figure is drawn on the paper so that a perforation can be made on the edges. Powdered chalk is then pressed into the openings with a felt pad to mimic the style of the material.

Below we leave you some Crewel embroidery work for you to enjoy!