Blackwork!
"....blackwork is black, except when it isn't; blackwork is reversible, except when it isn't; blackwork is a counted thread technique, except when it isn't..." (Lady Roxanne's Blackwork Article)
Welcome to Practical Blackwork! Here you will find original counted blackwork inspired by history, both classic "Elizabethan" designs suitable for historic re-creation and costuming, and pieces inspired by needlework treasures and traditions worldwide.
All Practical Blackwork patterns are designed by eye and hand from historic and traditional inspiration pieces, not "digital reproductions" done by software. All charts are hand-drawn and quality-checked with actual human eyeballs. (And, of course, our crack Quality Control Department seen in the photos above.)
All patterns are created for hand-stitching. Our patterns include any specific instruction required for the design, but we do not include generic "how to blackwork" instructions - there are a number of really great tutorials on Youtube, etc, that show this much better than we could tell in a few words. Like the "modelbuchs" of old we strive to give you as much "design" as possible and let your creativity run with it. The Management is happy to help with any questions, and we welcome photos of your finished articles for our gallery at www.practicalblackwork.com!
Please note that prices are not based just on number of pages in a PDF, but on the amount of time spent developing the design itself. Chart set-ups are created with intricacy in mind as well - over several pages or on one, for ease of use.
NOTE ON KITS - At this time, costs for ordering, handling, and shipping materials for kits are prohibitive. For that reason, Practical Blackwork designs will remain as digital downloads for your instant gratification (with the exception of the occasional embroidery piece worked by The Management.) I am always happy to consult with you on the best material choices for your particular needs.
NOTE ON SHIPPING PHYSICAL ITEMS - at this time, I ship only to the US. I offer only 1st class USPS service due to location - asking you to pay more for "faster" just ain't gonna work from here. Thank you for understanding!
I hope you find something here you will love stitching - counted blackwork is MUCH easier than it looks (shhh, don't tell!), much faster than cross-stitch, and with it you can create your own beautiful Things.
