Blackwork embroidery was introduced to us by one of our own members Bev Mounsey. She had brought a beautiful array of detailed samples with her including some with colour. [See Below]
She gave a short history of the technique, believed possibly brought to England by Catherine of Aragon, having been brought to Spain from North Africa. It then gained popularity at the Tudor court.
Most members wanted to have a go even though there were worries about whether eyesight was up to the job.
Bev had prepared little packs for all of us containing instructions, chart, canvas, needle and threads and she explained how to start in the middle and follow the chart.
Members started off slowly but as the pattern began to be embedded in the memory work began to proceed faster.
Little gold beads and gold accents were added and beautiful symmetrical patterns began to emerge. Members took their blackwork home to finish and many had taken to it like a duck to water and we look forward to seeing the finished items.
Thank you to Bev for introducing us to blackwork, preparing all the packs for us and inspiring us with her samples. It was a pity that the session was cut slightly short because of the heating failure.
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