Embroidery Overview

In the late 13th early 14th century the quality of embroidery was considered to be the highest quality it ever was.

Because most embroidery was produced like a production line with the embroiderer who was the best at heads doing all the heads, and the best  shader doing all the garments. When the plague hit in late 14th Century they also lost not only 50% of the embroiders, but decades of skill. However despite these difficulty's embroidery was just as popular as ever, and not only just for garments.

Edward III had 5 embroiders in his armoury, they are listed on the payrolls.  There are also records discussing the business on London Bridge being mainly silk workers. 

Commissions

At Linen & Needle we are very lucky to have Janet who trained at London College of Fashion in Women's Light Clothing Manufacturing and Clothing Manufacture, but also in hand embroidery techniques at the Royal School of needlework (RSN) at Hampton Court. On top of that we have our own in house digital artist who works on image creation and digitising. This means we help you create your perfect heraldry, dagging, ermine and much more on the items of your choice.

We have worked with many people on designs for:

• Heraldry banners, including many carried onto Tewksbury Medieval Festival battlefield
• Heraldry for Surcoats, including fitted 15th century.
• Custom ermine and dagging for Surcoats and hats.
• Badges for squires and groups.
• Wall scrolls for groups with members names, dates and ranks.
• Customised items with company logos.

If you wish to learn more, want to get a price estimate, or see more examples of past work please contact us to see how we can help.

Hand Embroidery & Hand Finishing

Here at Linen & Needle we understand that some people and groups prefer to have their items hand sewn for historical accuracy. While it is something we can do, it is not something we do often as it is a very costly, and time consuming method of creating garments and items.

So that the best finish be it machine or hand can be achieved for your item Janet has studied hand embroidery methods at the Royal School of needlework (RSN) at Hampton Court.

Some of our items are hand finished like some of our veils and pin holders. Or some items are hand finished on the outside and machined in the inside, this gives the look with less time and cost.

If you wish to discuss hand embroidery or different finishes,  or any other part of your order feel free to contact us at any time.