Monochrome embroidery

Monochrome embroidery (black embroidery) - a rare and undeservedly forgotten kind of needlework,as well as embroidery with ribbons. Monochrome embroidery has a long history - archaeologists say that it existed already in ancient Egypt. In the 13th century, black embroidery was performed on flax with a double stitch. Historians say that the wife of Henry VIII Tudor Catherine of Aragon, who loved this kind of needlework, brought to England monochrome embroidery from Spain. Black embroidery attracted the daughter of Henry, Elizabeth I, and spread throughout England and even Europe.

Double line was called "seam Holbein" in honor of the artist Hans Holbein jr. He portrayed in his portraits members of the English royal house. The collars and cuffs of their clothes were decorated with black monochrome embroidery. Now the Holbein seam is also used in monochrome embroidery along with the seams "back needle" and "counting cross".

Black embroidery was popular in countriesThe Middle East due to the predilection of the inhabitants of the eastern countries for simple geometric patterns. With the invention of persistent dyes for tissue began to spread monochrome embroidery in different colors - for example, blue and red, as it has disappearedThe need to use only a black thread because of its durability. For example, Ukrainian wedding towels are made in the technique of monochrome embroidery with a counting cross using red thread.

Monochrome embroidery is called so because the drawing is executed with only one basic color. Hence one more of its name - single-color embroidery. But do not think that monochrome embroidery is boring and monotonous. The selected base color is divided into several shades. To create a monochrome palette, you need to select base color, and to it in various proportions to add white or black. Since white and black colors are combined with all other colors, monochrome embroidery has a harmonious color tone.

Contour embroidery is a monochrome embroidery basedOnly on a combination of black and white colors. Most often it is produced by black thread along a white fabric. The contour embroidery is fast, but expressive. Black and white monochrome embroidery can be of two styles: contour embroidery and contour embroidery blackwork.

Contour embroidery itself is performed in the technique of "counting cross". The main goal of such a monochrome embroidery is not the exact reproduction of a plot or an object, but merely the reconstruction of its external outlines. An effect of some kind of understatement is created.

Contour embroidery in style blackwork stitch "back needle" withusing black thread and white fabric. Simple stitches are placed on the fabric in rows. As a result, a symmetric counting pattern is formed inside the contour. The use of "cross" in this style is possible, but limited: most often it is used to perform the color filling of individual elements of the picture.

What is attractive about monochrome embroidery? First, it easy to perform and does not take much time. Monochrome embroidery is especially suitable for beginners and those who do not have the opportunity to devote sufficient time to their hobbies. Also, monochrome embroidery will help you relax from more complex types of embroidery.

Secondly, monochrome embroidery allows save money. It only needs white cloth and one kind of thread(maximum - two or three when using the base color). Also, monochrome embroidery is universal: products in this technique will be an excellent gift and will be able to decorate even the most classic and discreet interior.

Despite the apparent simplicity, monochromeembroidery allows you to create beautiful and complex drawings, patterns and ornaments, reproduce the effect of lace. Products made in the technique of monochrome embroidery, always stylish and refined. Using threads of different thicknesses, one can achieve effect depth pattern.

Monochrome embroidery is an ideal option for beginners. It is simple in execution, economical, does not require a lot of time, and the result is simply stunning!