Blackwork Stitching Class

Come learn traditional blackwork stitching Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 1:00 PM at the Yuma Main Library!

Step back into textile history and discover the art of blackwork stitching! This class covers the fundamentals of counted-thread embroidery, historic geometric motifs, and shading techniques.

All core materials are provided for beginner practice, including fabric, thread, and needles. If you own embroidery or stitching hoops, please bring them along. Open to all skill levels!

What is Blackwork?

Blackwork stitching is a historic style of counted-thread embroidery, traditionally worked with black silk thread on light-colored linen. Popularized during the Tudor period in England—and closely associated with Catherine of Aragon, who brought Spain’s Moorish-influenced geometric needlework styles with her—it was historically used to embellish collars, cuffs, sleeves, and caps to mimic the look of expensive lace.

While both blackwork and modern cross-stitch rely on counting fabric threads on a grid, their techniques and visual effects differ:

• Stitch Style: Cross-stitch uses small “X” marks to fill shapes with solid blocks of color. Blackwork relies primarily on straight backstitches or Holbein stitches (a double-running stitch that renders the design reversible) to form geometric patterns and filigree line art.

• Shading & Texture: Cross-stitch creates depth using color gradients and shading. Blackwork achieves shading through line density, varying the thickness of thread, or spacing out repetitive geometric motifs (filling patterns) to create lighter and darker tones.

• Versatility: Modern cross-stitch is often full-coverage, whereas blackwork focuses heavily on negative space and intricate geometric line framing.