Blackwork is stitching done with threads of a contrasting colour on a linen or linen-like fabric - usually black threads on a white fabric. The fabric threads are clear enough that they can be counted easily, and there must be an equal number of threads per inch in the warp and the weft. The stitches are straight and not knotted. By counting threads of the material in varying numbers, small geometric patterns can be built up with simple running stitches.
