The Complete Book of Candlewick Embroidery

Candlewick embroidery is also known as white-work , and is a traditional style of embroidery in which a white or cream threaded design is sewn on to similar-coloured background fabric. This book shows how to make more than 30 examples of the craft. The craft was first practised by the early American settlers, who had no colourful yarns at their disposal and so used freely available materials, such as calico and the thread used for making candles, hence the name candlewicking . There has been a recent revival in this form of embroidery as it is relatively easy to do, quick to learn and reasonably inexpensive. Candlewicking is closely associated with quilting and a combination of both techniques opens the door to a wealth of possibilities, from bed linen to wall hangings. Part one describes and illustrates the various techniques, including embroidery stitches, tracing pattersn on to cloth, measuring fabric and using an embroidery frame. Part two gives step-by-step instructions for more than 30 projects. Part three consists of templates and patterns for each design, including bedspreads, quilts, cushions and padded baskets.