Redwork Embroidery - Creating Beautiful Keepsakes for Your Home

Redwork embroidery patterns are simple line drawings that are stitched using embroidery thread. This form of art was actually a major hit way back in the Victorian era when almost every lady was in search for ways to decorate their homes. From there, the craft was brought to America.

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Redwork Embroidery Patterns Facts

I've been fond of redwork embroidery for a long while. I like the simplicity of the design and color. It reminds of simpler times with the old-fashioned designs and calico fabrics used with it. Also, using all one color of embroidery thread gives redwork a unique look compared to traditional embroidery.

Penny Squares

Dubbed as “penny squares”, redwork embroidery patterns were called that because the patterns was originally bought at such price. Blocks of Muslin were put on sale because the item was widely utilized for creating a quilt along with calico fabric to surround the edges. This form of stitchery was also applied to kitchen aprons, tea towels, pillow covers and table blankets. Basically, the craft was greatly spotted in the houses of the past.

Common Stitches

Stem stitch was commonly used for redwork embroidery patterns. Outline stitch was also utilized. It's called Kensington hemming as it was popularized in the 1880’s by an English academic institution exclusive for girls alone. Another applied for this form of art was the satin stitch. It is slightly applied to stuff up areas that were enclosed. This craft was also accomplished by split stitch or back stitch to plaster curves that were tight.

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Another used in Redwork embroidery patterns is the straight stitch which was used to coat straight rows that are tiny in size. French knots created eyes and specks or just about anything that will involve little dots to be put in place. This form of art can also be applied with feather stitch ideal for the seams of pieced quilts. There are many good tutorials for these embroidery stitches and more online and in books. One of my favorite books is: Embroidery by DK

The first step to this craft is to lightly sketch the pattern on your fabric water- soluble pen. You can find several pattern books on Amazon, along with supplies you'll need including an embroidery hoop, fabric pen, stabilizer, and embroidery floss or thread. Click on any of images below to shop for them on Amazon.