RSN: Fine Whitework

Learn the art of fine whitework in this informative, instructional guide from the Royal School of Needlework.

The Royal School of Needlework (RSN) is recognized internationally as a centre of excellence for embroidery. Fine Whitework is the fifth title in a series of books showcasing the RSN’s techniques and contemporary flair as it celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2022.

Author Jenny Adin-Christie is an expert tutor with the RSN and she provides the reader with a detailed exploration of the numerous techniques involved in fine whitework, and two projects of varied complexity, as well as sharing images and details of historical whitework and the inspiring finished pieces created by the RSN itself.

The book features an introduction to the RSN and its prestigious heritage. It reveals the history and context of whitework and explains fine whitework as a specialist field; it explores the materials and tools that are used, and provides clear, highly illustrated instructions that will allow the reader to achieve their own stunning results.

In addition, there are numerous examples of Jenny’s own fine whitework pieces and items from her personal collection, as well as rare antique pieces and the work of other embroiderers that showcase the diversity of whitework design in both a traditional and contemporary context.

Book Contents

The Royal School of Needlework, Introduction to fine whitework, The history of fine whitework, A personal history, Materials and tools, Mounting the completed embroidery, Design, The tonal and textural scale of whitework, Order of work, Essential starting techniques

Sculptured techniques, Translucent techniques, Filigree techniques, Voided techniques, Fretted techniques

Project: Scabiosa button
Further inspiration

Project: Small Birds May Fly High fine whitework
Further inspiration

Taking it further, Glossary, Index