Creative Uses for Blackwork on Canvas
Virtual Lecture with Ann Strite-Kurz
Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 1:00 pm
This lecture will begin with a discussion of some traditional uses of blackwork on Congress cloth and show why traditional patterns are better on 24-count canvas. Then Ann will progress to some unconventional applications that include layered patterns with laid work both underneath and on top of the blackwork pattern, layered patterns using two values of one color and/or two weights of thread, patterns in two colors, patterns that are combined with canvas filling and patterns with strategic outlines that punctuate other elements.
Ann will also discuss the three methods of executing blackwork sequences and cite the advantages and shortcomings of each method. These styles are the backstitch method (commonly used on hardanger cloth or aida fabrics where traveling threads don’t show), reversible or double running method and the combination method of alternating back stitches and running stitches with double running side trips.
Some charted examples of her original patterns will be shown with their sequences to illustrate that patterns can use unconventional stitch lengths. Approaches to designing original patterns will also be included along with ways to avoid crooked outlines.
There is no fee for this lecture. A Zoom link has been sent to all Region Members.
For more information, please contact Marietta Douglas at mlette_97@yahoo.com
Bio: Ann Strite-Kurz has been an active designer and traveling teacher for forty years. She received her Level II certification in canvas embroidery in 1982 from NAN (formerly the Valentine Museum). She also earned a Master Craftsman in Canvas Embroidery from the Conn. River Valley Chapter of EGA in 1980 and wrote three group correspondence courses for EGA. She specializes in creative applications of counted thread techniques to canvas and is noted for her unusual analytical approach to stitch refinement. In addition, Ann has published five books on unconventional patterning, including diaper patterns, couching patterns, backgrounds and open composite treatments.
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Past Region Education Programs
Architectural Embroidery
A Lecture by Erin Petronella
March 1, 2025
1pm via Zoom
On March 1st, Elin will present a lecture about the artistic process of using simple stitchery to create advanced looking images. Focused on Architectural hand-embroidery, her work concentrates on how to translate the environment into a stitch-able design. As a result of her background in drawing, she often considers her embroidery work as “touchable drawings”, as they add a 3D element when translated in threads and fabric.
This is a free lecture. No registration is required. A Zoom link will be sent out to all Region members a few days prior to the lecture.
Bio: Elin Petronella is a Swedish artist and writer based in Belgium with her husband and two daughters. Elin is a co-author of Mindful Embroidery (McMillan 2020), runs the digital Petronella.Art Magazine (through Substack), and Petronella Art Academy (previously Charles and Elin Academy).
For more information visit: Charlesandelin.com