Where to go next with goldwork

History and harder techniques.

• Look at Opus Anglicanum, English medieval goldwork. The V&A holds the largest collection.
• Try soft string padding for sharp points.
• Try covering padded areas in kid leather.
• Learn more couching variations on the RSN Stitchbank.
• A tool called a mellore or stiletto helps position threads.

Sources

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

1. School of Stitched Textiles: Goldwork embroidery, a beginner's guide
2. RSN Stitchbank: Turning metal thread couching
3. Wikipedia: Goldwork (embroidery)