Description

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New large format version of the bestselling Royal School of Needlework stitch guide.

The Royal School of Needlework teaches hand embroidery to the highest standard, developing techniques in new and innovative ways. Written by RSN apprentice and tutor Jacqui McDonald, this book contains an extensive stitch guide, as well as guidance on the materials and equipment you need; how to design your own crewelwork embroidery; framing up; and positioning and transferring your design. Each stitch is clearly illustrated with step-by-step photography, along with expert instruction on how to form the stitch and use it in your needlework. With an introduction to the RSN and a brief history of crewelwork, together with numerous traditional and contemporary examples, this book provides an essential guide to this classic form of embroidery.

About the Author

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Jacqui McDonald's background lies in the conservation and restoration of antiquities and she spent seven years caring for the contents of some of the most beautiful houses in the National Trust. It was here that her passion for embroidery was born. Having been constantly surrounded by beautiful textile furnishings her artistic nature inevitably led her to recreate items for herself. Soon afterwards she made the decision to join the Royal school of Needlework's three-year apprenticeship. Her plan was to combine her conservation skills with the traditional hand-embroidery techniques she was learning, to preserve textile heirlooms for the future. Jacqui flourished at the school, and graduated top of her class with a triple distinction. She decided to become a freelance embroiderer and now works from her studio in Hampshire as well as attending the RSN in a teaching role where she enjoys passing on her skills to others. Jacqui's designs are still heavily influenced by traditional interiors and historical architecture that she enjoyed during her time with the National Trust.