Mountmellick embroidery is a highly texured form of whitework embroidery, originating from the town of Mountmellick in Ireland, around 1825. While it is sometimes referred to as Montmellick, Mt Mellick, Mountmellic, or even Montmellic, Mountmellick is the correct spelling as it is taken from the name of the town in County Laois (pronounced leash) in Ireland. Mountmellick embroidery uses floral motifs and heavily knotted and padded stitches. The plants featured are traditionally those that grew in the township of Mountmellick itself, such as oak, blackberry, dog rose, and ivy. Mountmellick embroidery is highly textured with many knotted and padded stitches used. Part of the fun of working Mountmellick embroidery is playing around with the stitches and working variations of them. On some historical examples of Mountmellick, there were only a limited number of stitches used. However, due to all their variations, the effect produced was highly patterned and varied.

Inside this book, you will find the model for a tablecloth to make with Mountmellick Embroidery.
Whitework embroidery traditionally features beautifully intricate designs using white thread on white background fabric, examples of which can be found in many cultures across the world. Without the addition of colour, the fabric surface is ornamented with high-relief stitching, cutting, pulling or withdrawing threads with some styles utilizing all these techniques. Whitework Inspirations highlights the very best whitework has to offer in both design and technique. Featuring talented embroidery designers Kim Beamish, Deborah Love, Judy Stephenson, Christine P Bishop, Susan O'Connor, Patricia Girolami and Luzine Happel, this special collection including a tablecloth, table mats and sachets has been curated into one publication. With 8 stunning whitework projects to make, there are clear step-by-step instructions, pullout patterns, a stitch guide and all the information you need to create them.
Discover the origins, stitches, techniques and designs that are uniquely whitework, and learn how to make your own beautiful works of art.

The ultimate resource for beginning and experienced needlecrafters who want to discover the timeless appeal of whitework in its many forms. Whitework is white on white embroidery where the texture of the stitchery, whether it be delicate or bold, creates the beauty and interest. Over 1000 step-by-step photos illustrate the creation of this beautiful traditional white-on-white embroidery which has inspired needlecrafters for centuries. Encompassing candlewicking, Mountmellick, cut work, appliqué, shadow work and net embroidery, this comprehensive guide in the proven A-Z format includes many useful tips and fascinating historical information.