Medieval blackwork kits and patterns

These two blackwork designs are available as downloadable charts from this site or full blackwork kits from my manufacturer (letsgetstitching.co.uk), The designs are suitable for beginners to this needlework technique. 

Blackwork Knight

Design size: 16.5 x 15 inches
42cm x 38cm

Instant Downloadable chart £5.00

The Story Behind the Black Knight

Somehow the intricate looking patterns in blackwork kits seem perfect for a knight in shining armour. I picked a fill pattern that resembled chain mail for his attire. A touch of gold picks out details in his shield. 

This jousting knight astride his steed gives the opportunity to stitch the horse's finery. Additional gold stitching highlights the lining of the horse's garment. To add more sparkle, gold beads decorate the centre of each "flower" on the horse's caparison (or ornamental cloth).

We leave some areas of the design empty while others use very closely stitched patterns, providing the needed contrast.

Fleur de lis motifs decorate the corners, while simple backstitched lines and a rope twist make up the rest of the border.

Diane shared her comments after stitching the Black Knight here. It was her first attempt at a blackwork design. 

Gwendoline

Design size: 18 x 7.25 inches
45.7cm x 18.5cm

Simple enough for a beginner to stitch: this demure medieval lady uses black stranded cotton/floss and gold metallic thread.

The pattern used for her overdress is the same as the one used in the blackwork pears lesson so you can practice it using my step-by-step instructions before tackling this design.

You can't see it in the photo, but her veil uses vertical running stitch lines to imitate the translucent fabric.

Instant Downloadable chart £5.00

Full kit here

The Story Behind Gwendoline

When designing this pattern I imagined this demure medieval lady on the arm of a dashing knight. 

They stood by an ancient castle gate. The lady was wearing a full-length gown and veil that billowed in the wind. Her delicate hands kept her skirts from touching the ground and she turned to address her handsome companion.

"Take me with you" she whispered to him, as he gazed lovingly into her eyes. 

The portrait would capture their love story forever...

My daydreaming ended as I realized that you may wish to stitch their portraits separately. But there is nothing to stop you hanging this framed pair side by side on your wall. 

 If you haven't tried blackwork kits before, you might like to check out my Blackwork for Beginners ebook which includes 8 small designs and full instructions for this needlework technique. With a little experience, you will tackle the Knight and his lady with confidence. 

Want full blackwork kits?

Order direct from my manufacturer if you want everything in one package. The kits are fully inclusive and contain everything you need to stitch these designs, apart from scissors and an embroidery hoop.

The kits include either Aida 14 count or 28 count evenweave fabric, DMC embroidery floss and metallic thread, tapestry needle, beads (for the knight) and a printed chart (so there is no need to order the downloadable pattern as well). They cut the fabric with plenty of extra to enable framing your finished blackwork kits. 

Please call 07526 136968 or 01566 781012 to order, as their website is currently being revamped. I will add a link to it as soon as possible.

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