Whitework embroidery

Linen towel with drawn threadwork accented with embroidery in stem and satin stitch.

Whitework embroidery refers to any embroidery technique in which the stitching is the same color as the foundation fabric (traditionally white linen).

Styles of whitework embroidery include most drawn thread work, broderie anglaise, Hardanger embroidery, Mountmellick embroidery and reticella.

Whitework embroidery is one of the techniques employed in heirloom sewing for blouses, christening gowns, baby bonnets, and other small articles.

References

• S.F.A. Caulfield and B.C. Saward, The Dictionary of Needlework, 1885.
• Virginia Churchill Bath, Needlework in America, Viking Press, 1979 ISBN 0-670-50575-7