Crewel embroidery

Surface embroidery worked in wool, using many stitches to follow a design outline. It became popular in the 17th century.

ResearchedSewSift editorialChecked 1 Nov 2026

What it is

Embroidery in fine wool, usually on linen twill, with Jacobean-style flowers and leaves.

Stitchers who like rich colour, texture and historical designs.

Crewel wool, linen twill, a large-eyed sharp needle and a hoop.

A single leaf in stem, split and long and short stitch.

Embroidery worked in fine wool, usually on linen twill, with flowing Jacobean-style designs.

Crewel wool, linen twill, a sharp large-eyed needle, a hoop or frame.

The stitches for stems and tendrils.

Blend shades of wool to fill petals and leaves.

One leaf design using stem stitch, split stitch and long and short.

Snagging satin stitch, gaps in shading, wool wear.

Jacobean designs, more stitch families and kits.

All checked 1 November 2026. We read these; we did not test the products ourselves.