Learn Swedish Weaving & Huck Embroidery

May 15, 2014

Swedish weaving (also known as huck embroidery), a form of surface embellishment on evenweave fabrics, peaked during the frugal 1930s and 1940s as women tried to bring a little color to everyday textiles such as kitchen towels and placemats. Kennedy, who was inspired by a vintage textile purchased at an estate sale, was taken with the bright colors and geometric designs typical of this long-lost technique and began designing her own patterns. This guide introduces the basic stitches and textiles used in Swedish weaving, along with 12 projects of various sizes that demonstrate the technique's versatility. Since Swedish weaving uses many of the same supplies as cross-stitch or embroidery, many crafters will have enough stash to give some of the small projects, such as the bookmarks or the gift bag, a try. Full-color folded pattern sheets are included for the longer table runners as well as the monk's cloth afghan. VERDICT This book is a valuable addition to needlework collections and will introduce an old-fashioned technique to a new generation of stitchers.

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