Goldwork: Techniques, Projects and Pure Inspiration

About the Book

Hazel Everett is an exceptionally skilled goldwork embroiderer, and in this beautiful book she passes on her knowledge and expertise in a way that is both practical and visually stunning. Drawing on traditional methods, she creates works that are brilliantly executed, in a style that is both modern and unique. Here, Hazel provides expert guidance and advice on an extensive range of goldwork embroidery techniques. Her detailed descriptions and step-by-step instructions are accompanied by clear diagrams and embroidered samples, all carefully and exquisitely worked by the author herself. Throughout the book there are numerous examples of the author's own work, providing inspiration for embroiderers who wish to extend their skills in this fascinating area. The book ends with ten fabulous projects, including richly worked samplers, Christmas tree decorations and needle books, all using the full range of techniques, threads and other materials that the reader has learnt about in the previous sections of the book. This is an invaluable reference for those already familiar with the art of goldwork embroidery, as well as an excellent starting point for anyone wishing to embark upon it. A unique source of information and inspiration for anyone interested in goldwork embroidery. All of the major techniques and materials associated with goldwork embroidery are explained through clear, step-by-step instructions, worked samples and diagrams, and there are ten fabulous projects to put into practice all the reader has learnt, allowing them to produce beautiful embroideries of their own. Numerous exquisitely worked pieces provide inspiration and ideas.

Table of Contents:

Introduction 6
History 8
Equipment 10
Needles 12
Frames 14
Fabrics 20
Transferring a design 22
Designing a motif 24
Order of work 26
Padding 30
Metal threads 35
TECHNIQUES 40
Pearl purl 42
Purls 47
Shading with chippings 50
Stem stitch formation 52
Purl loops 54
Embellishing beads and stones with purls 56
Graded cutwork 58
Geometric cutwork 60
Plunging threads 62
Couched threads 63
Or Nué 66
Twists 68
Handmade twists 70
Broad, 11’s and whipped plate 72
Crimped plate 74
Milliary 76
Kid 78
Spangles 80
Elizabethan twist 82
Flatworm 83
Embroidery stitches 84
Appliqué 87
PROJECTS 88
Flowers 88
Bugs 94
Fritillary 104
Butterfly 106
Cornucopia 110
Hanging decorations 116
Needlebooks 126
Dragon 134
Seahorse 138
Glossary 142
Index 143

About the Author :
Hazel Everett first became interested in embroidery whilst still at school, and her teacher suggested she might pursue a career in embroidery. Hazel went on to be an Apprentice at the Royal School of Needlework (RSN), and although she enjoyed learning about many different types of embroidery, she became most fascinated by goldwork. As an Apprentice she had the honour of embroidering a commission for the RSN workroom - a new pulpit fall in real, 18-carat Japanese gold thread. As her career developed, fate played a part and she was offered a number of commissions involving goldwork, including a mitre for Cardinal Hume. Hazel went on to teach Goldwork Embroidery all over the UK and worked on numerous commissions, including ecclesiastical work, embroidering items for leading fashion designers and assisting with the reconstruction of the Coronation Robe of King George VI that was exhibited at Kensington Palace, London. In 2011, Hazel wrote her first book, Goldwork: Techniques, Projects and Pure Inspiration, published by Search Press, which became one of the foremost guides to goldwork published in the English language. Sadly, Hazel died in late 2018.

Review :
Glorious is the only word to describe Hazel Everett's dazzling goldwork. Using traditional methods, she creates sumptuous effects, and jewel-coloured metal threads add yet another dimension to her stunning work. Every technique is clearly explained through a combination of easy-to-follow instructions, photographs and clear diagrams, bringing the necessary skills within the scope of beginners and experienced embroiderers alike. A collection of beautiful projects allows the embroiderer to put the techniques into practice and develop their own skills. Have a go, and you'll soon be producing gorgeous goldwork of your own.-Embroiderers' Guild In this visually spectacular new book, author Hazel Everett reflects her incredible talent and knowledge as she draws on traditional methods to create works with a modern and unique twist in a perfectly executed and practical way. Here, expert guidance and advice on an extensive range of goldworks guides the reader in this beautiful book filled with detailed descriptions, clear diagrams and embroidery samples that ends with 10 projects. These include Christmas tree decorations and needle books. This book would make an invaluable reference to those familiar with this art, and a brilliant foundation to those just embarking upon it.-Craft Business Discover the world of Goldwork embroidery with this comprehensive new book from Hazel Everett. Hazel trained at the Royal School of Needlework and shares her expertise and passion for the technique in [this book]. The book thoroughly explains in detail the array of Goldwork threads and their different applications and effects. The stitches and methods of working with them are detailed in each section so you have an encyclopedic reference to help or inspire you. Along with all this information comes an equal amount of inspiration with a collection of projects showcasing the unique aspects of Goldwork. These projects include a collection of insects, some wonderful Christmas tree decorations and an exquisite needlecase. The book is perfect for the complete beginner as well as those who have experience of Goldwork.-New Stitches Hazel Everett is an experienced and skilled embroiderer and in this book she shares with the reader her passion for the exquisite art of goldwork. The book details the equipment required, working with frames and hoops, mounting the finished embroidery, fabrics and threads, transferring designs and essential techniques. With full colour illustrations and diagrams this book is truly inspirational, particularly in the final chapter which contains a collection of projects showing how stitch techniques can be put into practice.-Sew Hip This satisfying book gives details of designing a motif, a clear order to approach any project and techniques to use. There are also good sections on Or Nue and using kid. The second section offers a good selection of projects, especially clear diagrams on insects. The close-up photography shows the detail of each piece. Text and pictures are well matched and make any embroiderer want to start a project, especially the two in the final chapter, of a Dragon and Seahorse. A complete beginner to Goldwork would gain confidence using new materials and the experienced worker would be stretched by the author's enthusiasm and skill. A lovely soft covered volume that would enhance any sewer's shelf.-Megonline.co.uk