Candlewicking – Simple Elegance
|
| Candlewicking is a uniquely American form of whitework embroidery that enjoyed great popularity in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The whitework designs, which came to our country from Europe and England, were worked with white embroidery thread of silk, wool, or cotton on fine white cotton fabric. Because of the scarcity and expense of these materials, the American needleworker adapted this art to the materials most readily available: cotton (often homespun), and a soft, loosely twisted cotton thread. This thread closely resembled the cord used to make candlewicks. Hence the name “Candlewicking.”
The craft has taken many forms since its early beginnings. It can be woven or embroidered. The woven candlewicking consists of threads being “picked” over sticks and held in place by threads to create loops. Embroidered candlewicking can be worked by ‘tufting’ the thread to create a chenille-like look. It can also be worked using French knots as the main stitch combined with other embroidery stitches.
We emphasize the French knot in most of our designs. The knot has great versatility. It can be worked spaciously, letting each stitch make its own statement or, tightly grouped, to create a tufted look. In some designs the knots are surrounded with simple embroidery stitches to add depth and emphasis to the design.
Our designs utilize the traditional natural colors. They are worked with 100% cotton candlewick thread on100% cotton unbleached muslin.
Candlewicking is a needle art that is easily mastered. Designs can range from simple to dramatic, from formal to casual, and anything in between.
|
|
