Frisian Whitework

Delve into elegant Frisian whitework with historical whitework specialist, Yvette Stanton.

From Friesland in the Netherlands, this is a style of counted embroidery dating from the 1600s. It was traditionally used on men’s shirt collars, household linen, and samplers.

Whitework is usually stitched in white thread on white fabric and most Frisian whitework is worked this way. However, this technique can also have touches of colour, and some samplers are worked entirely in coloured thread. Alphabets, figurative motifs and geometric shapes are common, and they are interpreted in a wide variety of stitches, such as satin stitch, eyelets, whipped back stitch, and chain stitch; some also with cutwork and drawn thread work.

Explore how Frisian whitework featured on clothing and other textiles, and study the many photographs featuring historical examples. Yvette guides you though the stitches and techniques of Frisian whitework with clear step-by-step instructions and detailed diagrams, ensuring you'll have the confidence and skills to master ten original projects, from small through to large, with a range of useful and beautiful applications.

Praise for Frisian Whitework:

‘I'm so excited about Yvette's new book on Frisian whitework! When it comes to learning and honing skills in specific (and sometimes obscure) embroidery techniques from around the world, Yvette is one of the best authors you'll find. Her newest offering is another gem in her ever-expanding crown of instructive embroidery books. From the unique history behind the techniques of Frisian whitework, to the detailed, clear instruction reinforced with pristine, gorgeous projects, this book does not disappoint! You're going to love it!’ — Mary Corbet, www.needlenthread.com

Book Contents

What is Frisian whitework? 5
The historical record 6, Stitches 6, Motifs 7, Alphabets 7, Sample bands 8

Historical examples 9
Samplers 10, Shirts 22, Cloths 24, Large letters and other motifs 26

Projects 30
Materials and equipment 31, Where to start 34, Long pendant 35, Runner 36, Silk sampler 38, Square cushion 40, Needlecase 42, Biscornu 44, Monogram cushion 46, Whitework sampler 48, Strawberries 53, Round pendant 56

Stitches and techniques 57
Pattern index 167
Index 168