Whitework

Background

Whitework generally refers to any type of embroidery made using white thread and white ground materials. Particularly fine examples are found in German lands in the 13th and 14th centuries.

Materials Used

• white linen, silk or wool thread
• white linen ground

Stitches and Techniques

• Stem stitch
• Chain stitch
• Split stitch
• couching work

Design

Whitework was a popular form for making altar cloths for Lent. As such, they often include religious themes. But other surviving examples include secular figurative and fauna patterns.

Extant Pieces

• 14th C Whitework Altar Cloth - http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/mona/hob_29.87.htm
• Henicus Secundus Panel - http://www.bayrose.org/wkneedle/Articles/Henry_Secundus.html

External Links

• Whitework - http://www.bayrose.org/wkneedle/Articles/Whitework.html