Blackwork embroidery is a several centuries-old technique that uses black threads on white Edinburgh linen. For this module, we have a choice of using 28 or 32 count linen and we must use four different types of black thread, which I will list in order of thickness, starting with the thinnest: silk gossamer, machine cotton thread No. 50, Anchor or DMC stranded cotton, and Coton a Broder No. 16.

The brief requires us to base our design on an existing photograph. Since the focus is on shading, it’s helpful to find one with good highlights and shading. I chose a photograph I took of the Pantheon while visiting Rome in 2001.

We first had to create an drawing to help us gain an understanding of where we will need to place highlights and shades in our stitched piece.

The design must be made with a minimum of 5 stitches. Blackwork stitches are actually small geometric patterns. Shading is created in two ways. One is to alter the pattern of the stitch by deconstructing stitches to create highlights or placing additional stitches to create shading. The other is to use the thinner threads for lighter areas and the thicker threads for darker areas.

Additionally, the brief requires us to blend two stitches together in the same area (aka the blend should not occur on an outline).

This project has been slow going for me, and remains unfinished, due to physical problems with my shoulder and fingers.

Current status: