Embroidery and Cross Stitch

A few weeks ago (yes I am behind with my blogging updates) we learnt about embroidery, the use of coloured threads to create decorative needlework through designs and pictures onto fabric done by hand or machine.  There are many absolutley amazing examples of embroidery dating as far back as the Iron Age and the Zhou Dynasty in China! 

There are a wide range of stitches used in embroidery and I learnt only a handful of them!  I could already do running stitch, back stitch and blanket stitch (an impressive range I know?!) but by the end of the lesson I could do the gorgeous sheaf and fly stitches as well as a french knot!  Now hand embroidery is something that I haven't really attempted before. I am a fan of speed, being very impatient, and so favour sewing by machine rather than hand but there was something so relaxing and calming about sitting with my embroidery hoop, like a Tudor lady, experimenting with the various stitches.  I have to say, I quite enjoyed myself! 

My Stitches

I also learnt about cross stitch and how the same stitch has to go at the back each time.   I had a go at this as a child with very little success but am pleased to say that I cross stitched, for what seemed like an eternity, my very small  heart and ABC! 

Not to scale! (It is much smaller in real life!)

Kirstie's Handmade Britain is currently being shown on Channel 4 (If you haven't been watching it you need to get on 4OD and watch all the back episodes - I have watched each one at least twice!)  In one episode Kirstie made the most amazing applique and embroidered cushion for the Great Yorkshire Show competition which she won!  After learning embroidery and applique, I really admire Kirstie's determination and patience with her cushion.  Hand embroidery is not for the faint hearted - it takes real commitment but the end results are so worth it!

As for me?  Hand embroidery is a craft I will be using as and when I need.  I am, however, desperate to try my hand at machine embroidery.