I am attracted to intricate stitch patterns from Europe and the Near East. They are incredible examples of abstraction. Complex, symbolic, and somewhat mysterious -- who has kept these designs alive since the Medieval period? Stitch artists have. Images of plants, birds, architecture, people, and other less easily defined symbols have been passed down through textiles for centuries. When one stitches one of these patterns, it is like adding on to such a lengthy tradition. Is it Art? Craft? Historical preservation? Channeling? Not sure.
While there are many resources online that present historical stitch patterns, especially Pinterest, I like actual printed books. They are more permanent, and can be relied on consistently and forever, unlike digital files. There are a few books lurking on my Amazon wish list waiting for the next gap in my art quilt production, when the stitching comes to the fore. Stay warm and make something beautiful, meaningful, and fun today, everyone!
Here's a peek at a few eye-catching books:
Geometrische Kreuzstichmuster nach historischen Entwuerfen (German Edition)
by Edith Bloeche
Charted Peasant Designs from Saxon Transylvania (Dover Embroidery, Needlepoint)
by Heinz E. Kiewe
Embroidery Motifs from Dutch Samplers by Alberta Meulenbelt-Nieuwburg