Free Schwalm Tutorial
Written and Designed by
Janet M. Davies
Schwalm is a German hand made embroidery, found as early as the 17th century. The
traditional style of embroidery is easily recognised by the profuse use of hearts and
tulips with scalloped edges. Also there are cut and pulled lace-like fillings inside some
of the design shapes. Woven Borders feature at times in traditional designs. This
embroidery style could be found on clothing and table clothes and runners.
Many everyday embroidery stitches are used
e.g. Buttonhole, Coral Knot, Chain, Herringbone and a variation on Pulled Thread fillings
in a cut grid of fabric threads etc. A Crewel needle (sharp point) is used for stitching
the design lines and surface stitching. For the actual Pulled Thread stitching, a Tapestry
needle (blunt point) is best, as this helps not to catch a fabric thread when stitching.
Traditionally close even weave linen fabric
was used. But today a variety a linen and viscose fabric are used (#28 count or more).
#28, means there are 28 fabric threads in an inch measurement. Also referred to as
"28 count" fabric.
Traditionally linen threads were used. The
most popular threads used today are Pearl 8 Cottons, Cotton a Broder and Stranded Cottons.
A splash of Metallic, Silk and Rayon threads can be used. Why not add some beads if the
mood takes you there.
www.jmddesigns.co.nz
Traditionally white thread on white fabric
was used. Today colours are also in use. I personally do not like too many colours in one
design, as it takes away the purity of the design. I think that keeping with monotone
colours for stitching the pulled fillings suits this embroidery style best. For if the
pathway of the pulled stitching is highlighted to much against the colour of the fabric,
the lacy overall look of the stitched pattern can be lost. But now I've just said that,
doesn't the photo below using the yellow, green and pink look great :)
TREE OF LIFE
One of the designs they used in this style was a 'tree of life'
as pictured above. Depicting facets that make life.... The urn;
something to grow from. Sustenance; the pomegranate to eat. Love; the
heart. Sun; warmth and promoting growth. Birds; originally they stitched
crows but in the last century the dove of peace has become more popular.
Some of the design areas have grids cut from the fabric weave and have
Woven or Pulled Thread stitching. Design size 18 x
20cm. (7 x 8 inches)
EVA OWL
Contemporary Schwalm Needlework. The Owl is 13cm (5 inches)
tall. The centre heart shape has a grid of threads removed and
then a woven pattern stitched in among the grid. In the eyes a
fabric grid is cut and then pulled thread pattern stitched. Pearl 8
and 6 stranded cotton was used.
click here to purchase this
individual design
LIAM’S OWL
Two different filings are used in this contemporary design, but an option of
6 different cut and pulled fillings are given that could be used inside the
design elements. This design could be framed as a picture or placed on the
front of a bag, photo album cover or cushion etc. This design is featured in
Janet's book. This design pictured is 18 x 17cm (7 x 6 3/4 inches).
click here to purchase this
individual design
HEART BORDER SAMPLER
This traditional border could be repeated around the edge of a tablecloth ,
runner or cushion. The book gives a choice of 6 different cut and pulled
fillings that could be used inside the design elements. An even weave fabric
must be used and suggestions are given. This design is featured in Janet's
book. Enlarge or reduce the designs to
suit your own needs. This design pictured is 40 x 16cm (16 x 6 1/2 inches)
CHRISTMAS CANDLE
I have used 4 different filings in this contemporary design, but an option of 6
different cut and pulled fillings are offered that could be used inside the design
elements. This design could be framed as a picture or used as a photo album cover etc. An
even weave fabric must be used and suggestions are given. The outlines of the design
elements have metallic thread included to give a seasonal shimmer. I lined the finished
design with a coloured patterned Christmas fabric that shows through to give added
attraction. Enlarge or reduce the designs to suit your own needs. This
design is featured in Janet's book. This design pictured is
21 x 15cm (8 1/2 x 6 inches).
LAURA’S BUTTERFLY
Two different filings are used in this contemporary design, but an option of 6
different cut and pulled fillings are offered that could be used inside the design
elements. This design could be picture framed or placed on the front of a bag, photo album
cover or cushion etc. Enlarge or reduce the designs to suit your own needs. An even weave
fabric must be used and suggestions are given. This design is featured in
Janet's book. This design pictured is 32 x 23cm (13 x
9 inches).
FLOWER URN
I have used 3 different filings in this traditional design, but an option of 6
different cut and pulled fillings are offered that could be used inside the design
elements. This design could be framed as a picture or placed on the front of a bag, photo
album cover or cushion etc. An even weave fabric must be used and suggestions are given.
Enlarge or reduce the designs to suit your own needs. This design is
featured in Janet's book. This design pictured is 23 x 19cm (9
x 7 1/2 inches).
click here to purchase this
individual design
Schwalm stitches used in a contemporary design. Pearl
Cottons and rayon threads were used. This deign is featured in Janet's Schwalm book.
Design size 19 x 14cm. (7 1/2 x 5 1/2 inches)
Traditional Schwalm Needlework
Traditional Schwalm design, but stitched with Pearl Cottons and Stranded
Cottons in colours. Design size, 15cm (6 inches)
Traditional Schwalm band stitched in colour.
Traditional Schwalm Needlework
Acorn design
