Ecclesiastical Embroidery: Techniques and Projects

by Heather Lewis

This beautiful guide to church embroidery starts with detailed instruction of the techniques needed before including a range of designs. It gives ideas for modern interpretation of age-old symbols and provides inspiration on how embroidery can be used in the church and on Eucharistic vestments. Over 600 photos, stunning examples and in-depth advice make this book an essential guide for everyone who wants to learn or develop their skills for this very special use of embroidery. Starting with a guide to the liturgical colours and Eucharistic vestments, it covers the whole process of first collecting together the materials and equipment that you'll need, through to creating and transferring the design, and then stitching, finishing and constructing the piece. Throughout the text, Heather Lewis shares her practical tips and ideas learnt from years of embroidering at the highest level so you can achieve the best results. Beyond the practical, this book also provides inspiration and encourages you to interpret traditional themes in new ways to keep the embroidery and Christian message as relevant today as ever. Projects range from a golden cross on a stole to the flames of the Holy Spirit using applique. Step-by-step instructions, supported with clear photographs and templates, complete this impressive book.

176 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 24, 2024

About the author

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Reviews

[Jillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

I came to this from a review on a popular embroidery site and ordered a copy online from the UK publisher. Unfortunately delivery in Australia was via a courier and ended with my taking a 30 minute drive to a depot to collect. Fortunately, that is the only downside to my pleasure in the book. It is a pleasure to hold, sturdy, but not heavy, beautifully printed on paper that will stand up to use.

Instructions could not be clearer, nor simpler. They cover tools, techniques, stitches, design and construction, in simple, sequenced steps. It would be ideal for groups or individuals embarking on embroidery projects for their church.

The projects and templates provided are very clear and straightforward. They provide the fundamental shapes, ideas and techniques to give immediate impact. From there it becomes easy to develop ideas for combining and tailoring too specific community needs.

I’m delighted to have ordered this. It will probably end up in my Guild Library, where those with this special interest will put it to good use.