18th Century Embroidery Techniques

by Gail Marsh

Brimming with intricate drawings, color photos of museum-held pieces, and excerpts from 18th-century writings, this fascinating, highly readable book explains how embroiderers embellished the bewitching, sumptuous clothing of the day. Gain insights into the working life of 18th-century embroiderers; and study the tools, equipment, stitches, and threads employed to embroider everything from petticoats to a polonaise robe. And learn techniques as relevant today as they were then, including working with metal thread and spangles, silk embroidery, quilting, tambour, and the forgotten arts of Hollie Point and knotting. A must for students of embroidery, fashion, and textiles; historical costume creators; collectors; and needlework enthusiasts.

Genres: Nonfiction, Fashion, History, Crafts, Sewing, Fashion History, 18th Century

192 pages, Hardcover

First published August 28, 2006

Reviews

[Sophie Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this and then I was like, "why did you buy this, do you really want to read a whole book about embroidery?" But it's actually a surprisingly quick read and very accessible for people who don't embroider, although I think those who are skilled will gain even more from it. Loads of illustrations to explain what Marsh is talking about and very helpful as a reference for historical fiction writers.

[Sally-ann Hoyne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was a little disappointed at first, because there was not as much about the embroiderers as the first book I read, like this, of Gail Marsh. But I came to my senses and realised there is probably not so much available as there would be for "Embroiders of the 20th Century" and that a book about those from the 18th century will be, perhaps, less interesting than those mentioned in the other book. But I realised my error, and re-read: because there are embroiderers named, and works shown with sample to try out myself. Then I enjoyed it far more, and I also realised that I was maybe looking for the author to share her research findings in a far deeper way than would interest (perhaps) the public as large. So 4 stars are easily earned, and I hope to read it again in another year and make a study of it along with the other two.

[Michael Bowman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful book that is packed with knowledge. Generally, this book covers several types of embellishments that were popular at the very beginning of the industrial revolution and how they evolved into machine made trims and laces. What we modern individuals think of as embroidery is just part of what this book covers. I was thrilled and inspired by other topics including tambour, smocking, knotting and quilting. The information on the tools isn't limited to brief mentions of their names. The tools are thoroughly described, and information is given on how they were used or even set up in homes and workshops. The lives of the people doing this work are discussed and how the industry impacted the economy. This book is a gold mine. I highly recommend it for anyone with an interest in textile history.

[Charlie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well-illustrated and very informative guide for embroiderers and also people like me who are just interested in the clothing of the period. One of my favourite sections, unexpectedly, was the opening Tools and Equipment chapter which covers things like how needles were made in the 18th century.

[Andrea McDowell · Rating 4 out of 5]

My only disappointment was that I hoped for more photos of the embroidered garments to go with the line drawings. But overall it was gorgeous and packed with details.

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

So many ideas...

[Claire Patton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely book that gives an excellent overview of this topic. My only issue is the writing, it feels as though Marsh simply copied and pasted from her Master’s thesis.

[Jacqueline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great text of embroidery in history

[Marybeth Farris · Rating 5 out of 5]

All time favorite embroidery book. Full of historical details.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely for the more advanced embroiderer I would reckon. But an absolutely glorious resource packed full of clear images of antique embroidery, patterns to trace off, information about the different styles and techniques.

[Maren · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Christmas present from my husband. Great detail on how those beautiful coats were decorated. Someday I am going to duplicate some of the work.

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED IT!! It even included a section on knotting--the precursor to tatting!

[Helen Leighton-Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent overview of the techniques, clear and concise with good illustrations.

[Stephanie Denison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book. I love the details!