Crewelwork Defined for Your Home Decor
This Crewel Bench would make a beautiful accent in a foyer or hallway. I love the natural colors and nailhead trim.
Crewelwork is a very odd name for a particularly beautiful fabric. This method of embroidery dates back at least 1,000 years; where it was used on tapestries. Ususally crafted in wool, the embroidery stitches follow a pattern or outline that has been applied to the fabric with chalk, water soluble ink or iron-on designs. Where does the word crewel come from? Well, the exact origin is unknown but is thought to have come from an ancient word describing the curl in the wool used.
The crisp crewel accent pillow on top pairs nicely with other cotton prints.
An example of an intricate crewelwork pattern from the 1940's. You can really see the detail in the stitching.
Linen Source always manages to give you super affordable fashion. This tropically inspired King duvet cover is on sale for $34!
This traditional style of fabric was most often seen in interiors that featured more of a Jacobean motif (think castles, kings and ladies in waiting). Over the years, it has resurfaced in more modern applications. Lately, I have seen a lot of crewel work in light, bright patterns that are open and airy. The detailed nature of crewelwork makes it interesting and adds nice texture to bedding, pillows and draperies. Because it’s wool and raised off the surface of the fabric, it can be a little scratchy and not something you’d want touching your skin. It’s best used on benches, chairs, throw pillows and bedspreads. But not the ones you pull up to cuddle with. 
This tone-on-tone look from Williams Sonoma is a subtle and classic way to use crewel.
Layla Grace carries these crisp and refreshing drapery panels from Pine Cone Hill. A heavy fabric always looks lighter in bright tones.
I love this graphic print from Pottery Barn. A modern take on crewel.
Tags: bedding, fabric, furniture, pillows, window treatments
August 6th, 2009 at 9:58 am
Such beautiful technique! It does give the fabric a beautiful, rich texture. My only problem with it, that wool makes me itch! So I wouldn’t want it touching my skin, but it is beautiful to look at! =) My favourite has got to be that Crewel Bench & the various pillows… Pretty..
August 6th, 2009 at 11:29 pm
Love the bench! The duvet is pretty, but I think my cats’ claws would snag the crewel work. Great price though!