Getting Started

Crewel is a form of embroidery that uses two-ply worsted wool threads on linen fabric. The wool thread is not soft and fuzzy like knitting yarn. Instead, it’s combed and spun until it’s smooth like a rope. Two strands of this worsted wool are then loosely twisted together to make crewel wool thread (figure 1).

 

Linen Twill

Linen is a very sturdy, natural material. When woven in a twill pattern, it doesn’t have the grid-like system of holes seen in the plain weave fabrics of needlepoint and cross-stitch (figure 2). The tight, smooth, and uninterrupted surface of a twill weave is perfect for the freeform style of crewel embroidery (figure 3).

 

 

Embroidery Hoops

Hoops come in different shapes and sizes. They’re round, oval, or square, and made of wood, plastic, or metal. A simple, round, unfinished wood hoop that you’ll find at most craft stores will get you started.

 

Special Stitch: Split Stitch

Split Stitch is a versatile “drawing” stitch, great for outlining designs. First, make a single Straight Stitch. Bring the needle up through the middle of your Straight Stitch at A, then go down at B (figure 4). Come up at C, again “splitting” the stitch, and go down at D (figure 5), and so on. Here’s a tip: Keep all of your stitches the same size except when stitching around a tight curve. Accommodate the curve by making your stitches much smaller. This will keep the flow of the line very smooth.

 

 

Skill Level

• Beginner

Materials

• Pattern design (found at the end of the instructions)
• White linen twill, 24" (61 cm) square
• Crewel wool thread, 1 skein each of light brown, light medium pink, medium pink, pink, and palest pink
• Chenille needle, size 24, or comparable crewel needle of choice
• White cotton fabric for lining, 1 piece 20" (51 cm) square, and 2 pieces 16" x 20" (40.5 x 51 cm)
• Coordinating fabric for pillow back, 2 pieces, each 16" x 20" (40.5 x 51 cm)
• 1 to 3 buttons, at least 3/4" (2 cm)
• Satin ribbon, 9" (23 cm) in length, 1/8" (3 mm) wide
• Pillow form, 18" (46 cm) square

Tools & Supplies

• Access to a photocopier that makes enlargements
• Hoop, 6" to 12" (15.2 to 30.5 cm) in diameter
• Tracing paper
• Fabric pen or pencil
• Scissors
• Straight pins
• Sewing thread
• Hand sewing needle

Stitches Used

• Chain Stitch
• Blanket Stitch
• Split Stitch
• French Knot Stalk

Material Used in the Featured Pillow

• 1 skein each of Appleton crewel wool in colors 912, 942, 943, 944, and 751