Blackwork Embroidery in Colour A colourful modern twist on a traditional technique

16 beautiful blackwork designs in colour to embroider, based on the four seasons.

Blackwork is a traditional form of embroidery, usually worked in black thread on a white background. Here, author Melanie Couffe takes the technique and gives it a burst of colour by introducing delicate shades of pink, blue, green, red, yellow, orange and purple. Her book begins with an introduction to the fabrics and threads she uses, and the basic stitches you need to produce the beautiful designs featured in the book.

She then goes on to create 16 gorgeous projects, including a pinkeep, mobile phone case, a purse and several framed pieces, all accompanied by step-by-step instructions, photographs and charts. Melanie's enchanting designs will inspire you to introduce colour into your blackwork, and create your own stunning embroideries based on this classic technique.

Melanie Couffe started her career as a language teacher and was an avid cross stitcher in her spare time. She started her cross stitch design company while on maternity leave and has been an independent creative entrepreneur ever since. She has also developed a range of hand-dyed stitching fabrics and also runs part of the French overdyed thread business, Le Fil Atalie. Melanie is a qualified colour therapist and colour is an integral part of her life and business. Melanie was born in Wimbledon in the UK and now lives in the south of France.