A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.
Proverbs 25:11

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

History of Redwork


This WORK is done by Lasting Treasure
This History of Redwork is on their site as well.
Please visit their site it has so many patterns
History of Redwork
Redwork is believed to have originated in Europe in the early 1800’s and traveled to America around 1850 with the availability of color fast red floss. The availability of color fast red thread and inexpensive cotton fabric led to an abundance of interest in this type of embroidery. From the 1860’s through the 1920’s it became popular for young girls to be taught to embroider using red thread floss on cotton squares using simple patterns. These "penny squares"—the simple cotton and floss could be purchased for a penny in dry goods stores across the country—were quickly stitched and often put together block by block into lightweight bed covers.
The outline or running stitch is used primarily for the design with the occasional more fancy stitches of Crazy Quilting being added for embellishment.
Redwork designs were used for home decorating during this time period. Vintage Redwork pieces can be found across America today at antique stores and flea markets. The designs were usually used in dresser scarves, coverlets, towels, and other items for home decoration. This type of embroidery was applied to very functional pieces of linen or cotton that were meant to withstand daily use. It was not unusual for moral sayings expressing the virtues of hard work to be stitched in script with flowers added for a charming effect.
A resurgence in this simple embroidery began in the late 1990’s and continues today. Redwork groups have sprung up at quilt stores as women fall in love with the simplicity of the vintage designs and the easy use of the patterns.
~~My note:
You can use any color to do this. Have a PINK kitchen do it all in PINK, the idea is to keep the same color.
Come on over for a CUPPA and we can stitch together.
Thank you for all the wonderful comments on the previous post
Deby

14 comments:

Michelle-ozark crafter said...

That was interesting to learn! I knew redwork had been around a long time. Blackwork is also very lovely! I will be right over and we will stitch together!

Paula said...

Dearest Deby,

Thank you for sharing this delightful information! I love redwork and I think I will do something in pink for my kitchen! You have inspired me.

I would love to come over and stitch with you sweet friend!

The Lord bless you!
Paula

P.S. When you go visit dear Brook's blog, one of her post has a tutorial on how to do a mosaic. She recently did this so you can just scroll down a few posts and find it.

Ticia said...

This is how my grandmother taught me to embroider.

Unknown said...

Fun to know! I've seen lots of redwork done by my aunts, but never realized it was so special. (The historical facts make it special to me). I love the look.

Dawn said...

That is just so pretty!! I had never heard of it till today. Thank you for helping me learn something new today!
The red just brings out the white. :)

Blessings,
Dawn

Theresa's Notes said...

Just Beautiful! Happy 4th of July!

Mishel said...

I just read your last post and saw the tea towels you stitched--beautiful! I *love* red (fav color) and I'd never heard of redwork--I learned something new today! : )

Sis. Julie said...

Just checking in on my blogging friends. I wanted to let you know I've been thinking about you and praying for you. I pray all is well your way. Thank you for your prayers for me and my family!! I love you my friend!! Have a great 4th of July!!

Tiffany said...

I love learning something new everyday. Thank you! All the towels turned out so cute!

Paula said...

Dear Deby,

I forgot to tell you how lovely your blog looks! I love the picture in your header and the verse too!

Bless you!
Paula

Anonymous said...

Hi, I've just discovered your blog and your article is so interesting. I have just finished doing three redwork designs of roosters! I love to embroider and I just thot this is great! I've just starting bloggging and today is my one week anniversary! Please pop in to see me sometimes.
Have a wonderful fourth of July!
Be a sweetie,
Shelia :)

Heather said...

I *love* these! I am always amazed with the handiwork of gifted women. Beautiful.

Sharon said...

I would LOVE to come over and stitch with you!

Rose of Sharon said...

I adore redwork! I would love to find some vintage pillows that say "Good morning" or some sweet phrase. Thank you for the history, this is good to know!

I like your collection, they are beautiful!

Hugs, Sharon