Redwork - Antique Examples

by Patricia L. Cummings

This file is provided to show you some examples of Redwork and other color Outline Stitch embroideries. As quilters and embroiderers, we can never view enough visual depictions of antique stitchery to suit us. To that end I will be adding some items here for your enjoyment.

The first item is a German splasher. The barefooted boy is standing on a rock and is interacting with a fish. He has a basket with him in which to place the fish. This water scene features a cattail plant and water lilies.

German redwork splasher, close-up, with fisherman

Close-up of a German splasher. Photo by James Cummings

Photos of many additional European examples of Redwork can be viewed in our e-book: Redwork Embroidery and Needlework Traditions in Europe and America.

Redwork Lowlands scene with children

Close-up of a Splasher with Dutch children. photo by James Cummings

The following two pieces were found in the Lewis family (19th and 20th century) collection. One is in Redwork and features lovely birds rendered on a special cloth sold for embroidery in the late nineteenth century. Here you see only a close-up view.

Redwork from the Lewis collection - Birds on Branches

Beautiful Redwork design of birds and blossoms. Seen in an "as found" condition. Photo by James Cummings

The second item features an Oriental scene worked in various colors of thread. This design is repeated at both ends of a linen towel. In person, it looks far more charming.

Multi-color Outline Stitch embroidery - an Oriental scene

Lewis collection. photo by James Cummings

Pinkwork antique doily with flower

The name of the background fabric is unknown. Lewis collection. photo by James Cummings

We share images here for educational purposes. Please do not use the designs for commercial use. Thank you.