If you’re into blackwork, or if you’re looking for some designs to get you started with blackwork embroidery, here’s a resource that might come in handy.

The above design comes from an online article by Heather Rose Jones called Medieval Egyptian Blackwork Embroidery. If you like blackwork and are intrigued by the geometric filling patterns often seen in this form of embroidery, you’ll find the article well worth your time!

What I especially like about the article is that the author analyzes the “work flow” of the pattern, showing the reader in what order the pattern would be stitched with the (reversible) Holbein stitch, also called reverse running stitch. The key point about Holbein stitch (named for the 16th century artist, Hans Holbein the Younger) is exactly that it is reversible – it looks the same, more or less, on both sides of the fabric. The tricky part of working any geometric design with Holbein stitch is figuring out how to follow the pattern so that the return journey of stitches works out. In her article, Heather Jones explains this well. She explains especially the anatomy of a wide band of blackwork, which she breaks down into two patterns in order to make the the piece work with Holbein stitch.

There are lots and lots of resources online for blackwork! But I really like this article by Heather Rose Jones, and I think it’s worth adding to your library. If you’ve got some favorite online blackwork resources, feel free to share them in the comment form below! I’m always looking for gems to add to my list, and I’m sure other readers will appreciate your input!

Enjoy your Sunday!