Description

In the 16th Century Bronino portrait that inspired this pattern, the pattern almost looks like little radiant suns from a distance. Upon closer inspection, though, it’s actually a very simple geometric design! This means you can quickly and easily fill a border and create a stunning effect.

Listing is for 16 inches (40 cm) of pattern. Wooden spool is not included.

Blackwork embroidery has deep historical roots, beginning in the Middle East and North Africa of over a millennium ago. Styles and motifs travelled between cultures, from Renaissance Italy to Tudor England and beyond, while new interpretations were constantly being invented. This kind of embroidery was one ingredient in the creation of the many styles of traditional folk embroidery that survive today.

Many historical re-enactors and Renaissance Faire costumers like to focus on blackwork that is, well, worked in black. Tudor England was big on using a single colour, and stitching so carefully that the embroidery was identical on each side of the fabric. On the other hand, every time and place brought something different to these patterns. Historical examples that survive today include blue, yellow, red, and green thread; some are all one colour, and others use many different colours. Many different embroidery stitches were used. Sometimes it’s the unique human touch that makes something special.