RSN Essential Stitch Guides: Goldwork

Reviews / Votes

Jan 13



Have the 140 years of Royal School of Needlework knowledge and expertise at your fingertips with this new addition to the Essential Stitch Guide range. Goldwork by Helen McCook is an invaluable reference for any stitcher at home whether a beginner or proficient in the technique. An extensive range of effects and stitches in Goldwork are fully explained such as the application of purls and plate, couching effects and Or Nue. There is a thorough introduction to the fabric and threads, framing up the work, getting started and design advice. The book is a vital companion to anyone with a love of Goldwork or the desire to try it for the very first time. * NEW STITCHES * Feb/Mar 13



This book offers clear instructions with beautiful examples of historical and contemporary pieces, all of an exceptionally high standard. Helen McCook shows you how o create stunning goldwork embroideries using traditional techniques and, as one would expect, this hand embroidery is of the highest standard, sharing with the reader developing techniques and new and innovative ways to achieve what is a very ancient art form. You may be interested to note that Helen was part of the RSN team who worked on the wedding dress of the Duchess of Cambridge. Another particularly intriguing facet to the art of metal-thread embroidery is the fact that it is an ever-changing art form, not only in style of design, but also in its basest form; the very thread with which you work is made to change. The tarnishing process is a natural part of this technique to the extent that some might call goldwork the study of elegant decay; in its response to time and the elements it has its own evolution. * Fabrications * Feb/Mar 13



Not only is Helen McCook a technically accomplished goldworker, as you might expect of a graduate of the RSN, but she brings a fresh approach to this ancient craft. Helen finds that a 'particularly intriguing facet to the art of metal-thread embroidery is the is the fact that it is an ever changing art form, not only in style of design but also ... the very thread with which you work is made to change. The tarnishing process ... might be said to define in some way goldwork as "the study of elegant decay"'. Certainly, Helen's work is a study in elegance. Part of the team chosen to work on the Duchess of Cambridge's wedding dress, Helen's meticulous approach is displayed throughout this book. * Stitch * Nov 12



Carefully worked examples are shown from design to completion in this new book on an old style of embroidery. The young author has studied at the Royal School of Needlework and spent some years working to gain experience with different firms. The clear sections on equipment, materials and the order of work make this a joy and inspiration. The stitches are divided into two sections - couching and cutwork - with a series of clear photographs explaining each stage. There are also helpful hints on handling and positioning threads. Familiar stitches are included in the section on combining techniques. The book has a spiral binding, which makes it lie completely flat for easy reference. * Merseyside Embroiderer's Guild (megonline.co.uk) * Oct 12



A very good comprehensive little guide to goldwork techniques. As someone with experience in goldwork I would rate this book highly for the way it describes all the main techniques from elementary to advanced. I especially like how she uses traditional techniques in a contemporary way - the use of different coloured metals for example. Also lke the section on Or Nue which is quite different from other forms of goldwork. Photographs are very clear and I would think that anyone with no knowledge of goldwork would be able to produce a satisfactory piece from this book. A good book to have in your library.-"I. Sewell", Amazon * Customer * Dec 12



RSN Goldwork and RSN Whitework: Both these books, although covering traditional needle work techniques, cover quite different approaches, with whitework looking very pure and pared down and the goldwork appearing very sumptuous and colourful. Whitework is introduced from its historical roots, but the feeling throughout the book is that, while retaining some of this history in the stitching and processes of working, the movement is into the contemporary period. Many designs have a modern feel to them, and there is some reworking of traditional pieces into up to date designs. The work in Goldwork is much denser, with more variety in the stitches and embellishments. The work looks more traditional, but there are a few pictures towards the end, where techniques are combined and more contemporary pieces showcased. Both books contain a huge selection of stitches and techniques, with an Order of Work given in both for a successful outcome. They are both well illustrated with clear instructions, and would act as both a good introduction and way of moving forward for anyone working in either discipline. * Workshop On The Web *