This is a detailed and illustrated study examining stitches, threads, techniques and the embroiderers of the period. The author is a well-known and respected authority in the field. It is a must for embroidery, fashion or textiles students, crafts people, textiles collectors and needlework enthusiasts. In this stunning book, Gail Marsh delves into the archives to research the personalities, varied and unusual techniques and tools that hand-embroiderers used in the period 1900-1939, before the outbreak of World War II. All the examples are from the RBKS Collection at Gawthorpe Hall, Lancashire where Gail is Curator. With a unique focus on the embroiderers themselves and their contributions to the craft, each chapter gives a short biography, design influences, materials, working practice and then the actual embroidery and how it was worked. These include unknown but intriguing experts in the craft, as well as the famous names, such as Jessie Newbury, Ann Macbeth, Margaret Swanson, Mrs. Foster, Grace Christie and Joan Drew.
Gail's in-depth research is presented in a highly readable manner, with contemporary quotes and social comment - making this an essential reference for fashion/textile/embroidery students; craftspersons interested in historical embroidery techniques; collectors of textiles and any needlework enthusiast wishing to extend their knowledge.