Description
Book SynopsisMountmellick is a style of embroidery dating from around 1825 and originating from the town of Mountmellick in County Laois, Ireland. The embroidery is always white on white with a floral motif interpreted in a highly textured stitching.
Trade ReviewMarch 05
This book begins with a fascinating history of Mountmellick embroidery in which the authors share their discoveries and observations of historic examples of this technique found during their research. After outlining fabric and thread requirements there is a collection of all the stitches used to build up Mountmellick motifs with clear, detailed instructions on how to work each one.
The projects are varied as Mountmellick can be used for many applications as it is robust and, being all white, can be hot washed. There are traditional projects such as doilies and mats as well as contemporary applications such as bolsters and lampshades.
* NEW STITCHES *
Sep 05
...Mountmellick is perhaps the chunkiest form of whitework embroidery, worked with thick cotton thread on a heavy cotton jean fabric. If authentic materials cannot be got, even from the list of suppliers in the appendix, then it does give some suggestions for substitutes. A short history of the technique is followed by a materials list. The section on stitches is clear and has a good combination of words and diagrams...This is a useful resource book.
* Journal for Weavers, Spinners & Dyers *
Table of ContentsThe following features are regarded as being characteristic of Mountmellick work:
It is worked in white matt (no shine) thread on white cotton satin jean fabric.
The shapes are big and bold and usually floral - the leaves and flowers are usually at least life-size, if not larger.
It has a buttonholed edge, usually with a knitted fringe attached. Lace is not used.
It is highly textured with many knotted and padded stitches employed.
There is no openwork, such as eyelets.
