The Royal School of Needlework (RSN) is recognized internationally as a centre of excellence for embroidery. Fine Whitework is the fifth title in a series of books showcasing the RSN's techniques and contemporary flair as it celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2022.
Author Jenny Adin-Christie is an expert tutor with the RSN and she provides the reader with a detailed exploration of the numerous techniques involved in fine whitework, and two projects of varied complexity, as well as sharing images and details of historical whitework and the inspiring finished pieces created by the RSN itself.
The book features an introduction to the RSN and its prestigious heritage. It reveals the history and context of whitework and explains fine whitework as a specialist field; it explores the materials and tools that are used, and provides clear, highly illustrated instructions that will allow the reader to achieve their own stunning results.
In addition, there are numerous examples of Jenny's own fine whitework pieces and items from her personal collection, as well as rare antique pieces and the work of other embroiderers that showcase the diversity of whitework design in both a traditional and contemporary context.

For those who are passionate about the art of thread, this embroidery book invites you to discover punto antico, a traditional technique born in Italy. Delicate, openwork and elegant, this Italian embroidery is similar to reticello, Hardanger or white embroidery.
Whether you are an expert embroiderer or a beginner, learning a new embroidery technique is a challenge that can be easily met if you have a practical guide!
This is exactly what this punto antico embroidery book is all about. It makes it easy to learn all the basics of this traditional Italian embroidery with :
A detailed list of materials and supplies needed
Tips for getting started: how to read a diagram, how to prepare the fabric, how to stop the thread...
Step-by-step photos to learn the essential embroidery stitches
1 grid insert to make it easier to create the patterns
Twenty or so designs with easy-to-understand diagrams to help you apply what you have learnt and carry out the different stages (embroidery, assembly, etc.).
20 delicate embroidery designs: all embroiderers will love them!
Once you've mastered the punto antico technique, you'll enjoy making superb useful or decorative accessories:
Scent bags, placemats, fabric masks, tissue box cover, sewing kit, small flat case, wedding ring cushion, decorative mini cushion...

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.

Also known as 'counted thread openwork' or 'drawn fabric embroidery', this beautiful whitework technique is achieved by simply pulling on the threads of the fabric, without cutting or drawing them. It is worked on loosely woven fabrics using a fine tapestry needle, and involves accurately counting the threads to create intricate, geometric designs.
Pulled thread embroidery is well suited to modern-day decorative use, either on its own or combined with other techniques such as hand embroidery, patchwork and quilting. Create gorgeous, delicate edgings for table linen, or beautifully simple yet intricate designs for cushion covers, lampshades or purses. With clear instructions, stitch diagrams, charts and photographs for over 140 stunning designs, plus inspiring photographs of finished pieces, this book is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in this exquisite form of openwork embroidery.

This Best of brings together twenty or so Hardanger designs. Mamen Arias Ruiz, a Spanish designer known throughout the world for her embroidery talents, opens the doors to her creative universe and introduces you to Hardanger embroidery.
Whether you are an expert or a beginner, passionate embroiderers will fall under the spell of these decorative, fashion or practical projects made with Hardanger embroidery stitches.
In this book dedicated to Hardanger embroidery, you will find decorative or useful designs, each as refined as the next, on various themes:
Reading: bookmarks, pencil cases...
Sewing: pin cushion, scissors pouch, needle book...
Wedding: purse, wedding ring cushion, wedding handkerchief...
Women's accessories: bracelet, jewellery basket, bag, purse...
Table: cutlery case, napkin holder, placemat...
Practical accessories: mail holder, pocket organizer, notepad...
Christmas: basket, candle holder...
If you are a beginner in Hardanger, the basic techniques explained at the end of the book will allow you to approach this art of thread without difficulty. Barrette in cord stitch or darning stitch, pavement in throw stitch, spirit stitch, openwork...
This terminology specific to Hardanger embroidery will hold no secrets for you!
The photos and diagrams proposed for each model make it easier to understand the embroidery and the assembly. The colourful Hardanger charts make it easy to make embroideries.
Everything is done so that you too can enjoy the pleasure of embroidering openwork designs as elegant as lace!

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.

This sumptuous book by accomplished embroiderer Ayako Otsuka is full of incredibly delicate and beautiful whitework embroidery of all kinds. Whitework is simply embroidery worked in white thread on white fabric, and it is renowned for its calm beauty and simplicity. An ancient form of embroidery that was popular in the Middle Ages, Ayako has brought whitework completely up to date with her gorgeous examples.
The projects include such items as a sampler, a tea cosy, a teddy bear cushion, a christening gown, a ring bearer's pillow and a table runner. Some items are more complex than others, and there is a comprehensive techniques section with detailed step-by-step instructions, clear photographs and diagrams to guide you.
Featuring drawn thread work, Schwalm, Ajour and Hedebo embroidery among other techniques, there is a wealth of information here for the keen embroiderer and 30 very beautiful projects to choose from.

Learn the art of Punt 'e Nù, a style of knotted whitework embroidery from Teulada, Sardinia, with this step-by-step manual from whitework specialist, Yvette Stanton.
This beautiful embroidery features stunning white on white texture and pattern with its geometric knotted patterns of traditional motifs.
The stitching techniques are explained in Yvette's usual detailed step-by-step style, with clear diagrams to assist you. There are even separate instructions for left-handers! There are 11 projects, suitable for beginner through to advanced embroiderer, and there is something to delight everyone. Projects range from impressively large to exquisitely small and include a tablecloth, dress, cushion, table runner, biscornu, candle wrap, and hand towel, all featuring beautiful Punt 'e Nù style embroidery.
Each project has detailed instructions for its completion.
With Yvette Stanton's comprehensive instructions, you can learn this traditional style of Sardinian needlework today.

The flexibility of whitework with colour has opened the door to a whole new world of creative possibilities. There are no limits to the subjects one can stitch, and you will find nestled among the pages a wide variety of projects which will entice you to get stitching. There are seventeen projects in the book, ranging from complete beginner to more advanced. No special skills are required but a little practice will go a long way in helping you to master the technique.
Trish's expert use of colour has contributed to the creation of marvellous pieces of embroidery, where quite unusual colour combinations and multiple colourways reveal how identical designs and shapes can transform when different colour is applied.
Whitework With Colour differs slightly from Trish's previous books in that she has decided to lean more on her own experience and share the methods that have worked best for her over the years. The embroidery is innovative, great fun and seriously addictive.
Discover the phenomenal elegance, intricacy and awe within Trish Burr's incredible embroidery white work designs.

Early-style Hardanger is not often seen outside of Norway, but is quite distinct from contemporary Hardanger. This historical style of embroidery has traditionally been used on the women's clothing in the Hardangerfjord region, and was designed to imitate needlemade lace of the 1600s and 1700s. Feel the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment of making your own traditional-style Norwegian whitework embroideries using whitework specialist, Yvette Stanton's clear instructions. There are 10 varied projects with a range of contemporary applications, including a blouse with embroidered cuffs and collar, soft furnishings for the home, table linen, and small articles suitable to give as gifts. You will discover what makes early-style Hardanger different from contemporary Hardanger. The historical and cultural information, including many photos of historical examples of Hardanger, helps to place the embroidery within its cultural context. The left- and right-handed step-by-step stitch and technique instructions are easy to follow, making it easy to learn. You will learn to avoid problems and have the self-assurance to fix any mistakes you make. Yvette Stanton's expert instructions will help you on your way to making beautiful early-style Hardanger embroidery.

This book is a beautifully presented guide to embellishing contemporary work with hand-embroidered monograms. The effect of an elegant monogram is irresistible and has a timeless appeal. Contemporary applications illustrated in this book include cushions, napkins, wedding bags, towels, plaids and sheets. All the projects in this book can be adapted to different uses. With this book, readers will learn, with step-by-step photo explanations, how to make the different embroidery stitches, what materials to use and where to place a monogram. Various alphabets from cross stitch to padded feather duster are included. This book is a complete guide that will be appreciated by both beginners and experienced embroiderers.

A comprehensive guide to whitework embroidery. 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.

Learn the art of Punt 'e Nù, a style of knotted whitework embroidery from Teulada, Sardinia, with this step-by-step manual from whitework specialist, Yvette Stanton.
This beautiful embroidery features stunning white on white texture and pattern with its geometric knotted patterns of traditional motifs.
The stitching techniques are explained in Yvette's usual detailed step-by-step style, with clear diagrams to assist you. There are even separate instructions for left-handers!
There are 11 projects, suitable for beginner through to advanced embroiderer, and there is something to delight everyone. Projects range from impressively large to exquisitely small and include a tablecloth, dress, cushion, table runner, biscornu, candle wrap, and hand towel, all featuring beautiful Punt 'e Nù style embroidery.
Each project has detailed instructions for its completion.
With Yvette Stanton's comprehensive instructions, you can learn this traditional style of Sardinian needlework today.
Pattern sheets included
Instructions for left-handed embroiderers
Step-by-step instructions and clear diagrams

Delicate and refined, the Hardanger seduces embroiderers all over the world, who appreciate this harmonious sequence of openwork motifs bordered by satin stitches and covered with various bars. In this book, Sadako Totsuka explains, with the help of clear diagrams and a technical reminder of the bases and stitches used, how to make twenty or so models to create a cosy and refined atmosphere in the home: tablecloths, centrepieces and table runners, cushions, various placemats, coasters, tea cosies, beverage holders... ...there is something for everyone!

In dozens of countries and in hundreds of varieties, the venerable craft of white work has become a byword for the ultimate form of needlework elegance. Its 3,000-year history encompasses every conceivable form of garment and decorative linen, from peasant blouses to papal vestments and the bridal gowns of queens; it appears in many guises as the favored embroidery of needleworkers from Denmark to South Africa, from England to the Philippines.
Unfortunately, white work has frequently been neglected in the United States because of its underserved reputation as a difficult form of embroidery - the type of work that, as author Carter Houck states, is never seen "beyond the glass cases of a museum." In reality white work can be performed at all levels of expertise; even more important, Ms. Houck shows that superb results can be achieved without laborious practice and prodigious technique. From these pages white work emerges as a vibrant and continually evolving form of contemporary embroidery that is both beautiful in itself and valuable for its myriad uses.
Ms. Houck assumes no previous knowledge of white work and provides complete information on materials, pattern-transferring techniques, and instructions and diagrams for over 20 stitches: the simple chain stitch and running stitch; satin stitches and French knots; and more difficult "virtuoso" techniques like the Star and Shadow.
Following the instructions are 40 pages of magnificent patterns, including florals, repeats, abstract designs, spot and corner decorations in a wide variety of sizes and moods, and two complete sets of alphabets for use as monograms. For each design Ms. Houck has suggested a stitch or stitches that produce optimal effects. As a result, the book acts as a self-contained guide to white work that can transform blouses, cuffs, collars, scarves, place settings, curtains, or any embroidery medium into treasures of heirloom quality.

The Royal School of Needlework (RSN) teaches hand embroidery to the highest standard and is well respected all over the world. It not only upholds the traditions of English embroidery that go back many hundreds of years, but is constantly taking embroidery forward in new and innovative ways. This series of Essential Stitch Guides has been produced in close collaboration with the RSN with the aim of providing a set of definitive works on traditional embroidery techniques. All of the authors were chosen by the RSN and all are graduate apprentices of the Royal School. Whitework begins with the history of this wide-ranging type of embroidery, then explains the materials needed and the issues of designing and ordering your work for stitching in white on white fabric. The Stitches section covers pulled thread, core surface, decorative and drawn thread stitches, as well as eyelets and cutwork. Two beautiful whitework pieces are then analysed to show how all the stitches and techniques were used, and a traditional piece is reworked with a contemporary twist. Finally the further techniques of using layers, net darning and trailing are shown. Step by step photography, full instructions and diagrams make this a clear and user-friendly guide to whitework, and Lizzy's skills and talent make it an inspirational book.

The latest stunning book from whitework specialist, Yvette Stanton, Portugese Whitework featuring an exquisite style of needlework from Guimarães in northern Portugal will inspire and delight you. Drawn thread work and bullion embroidery combine to create a strikingly beautiful style. You will learn all you need to know to create your own masterpieces and heirlooms with the in-depth step-by-step instructions.
A range of projects, large and small, for beginners through to advanced stitchers.

This beautiful and delicate work is a form of whitework embroidery. It incorporates surface stitches, pulled fabric, drawn thread, needlelace and needleweaving, and is embroidered on garments and linen. All works are based on the 'Tree of Life'.
Projects included in the book are suitable for the beginner through to the more advanced embroiderer.
Colour photographs clearly show the intricacy and beauty of the work
Clear and simple instruction in stages
Step-by-step illustrations to complement instructions
9 projects from easy to advanced

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.

NOW FULLY REVISED AND EXPANDED
You can do Hardanger embroidery!
Have you always wanted to try Hardanger embroidery but thought it looked too difficult? Or have you mastered the basics and want new challenges? This manual will take you step by step from novice to advanced stitcher, with helpful diagrams and hints and tips at every stage. There are stunning Hardanger projects, graded beginner, intermediate and advanced, to guide you to your next level of expertise. You will refer to this Hardanger embroidery book again and again.
Discover what it is like to study as if this wonderful teacher were at your side, as you learn from this wonderful Hardanger embroidery book:
how to easily create the stitches of Hardanger embroidery
how to work those harder stitches that you donít get in beginners books
that you don't need to be afraid of cutting the fabric threads
hints and tips that you normally only learn in classes
how to fix mistakes
how to use your skills to work elegant Hardanger projects

An edited bindup of the two popular books from Gina Marion, Creative Hardanger and Decorative Designs in Hardanger. This one volume contains all the hardanger you need to know. Stitches, techniques, and over 50 stunning projects with many designs using coloured fabrics and threads. Some projects are embellished with beads and metallic threads. Now in one volume, Classic Hardanger will answer the need of any embroiderer interested in this style of embroidery.