What is Crewel Embroidery?

Crewel embroidery has roots back to the 11^th century but peaked in England and America in the 17^th and 18^th centuries. Crewel is the application of different embroidery stitches using wool thread to the surface of the fabric (usually linen). The most famous and easily recognizable examples of crewel embroidery are Jacobean designs that are full of stylized flowers and animals. Crewel has been transformed each generation as new designers revise the ancient craft. We are proud to work with fiber artist Katherine Shaughnessy as she updates crewel embroidery for 21^st century sensibilities.