Samplers, stitches & techniques
Many stitches and techniques were originally used in embroidery samplers to create almost limitless effects, yet from the 18th century onwards, more and more reliance has b…
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Introduction to quilting
Quilting usually means two layers of fabric sandwiching padding or interlining, all held together by lines of stitching.
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Resist-dyed textiles
Resist-dyeing is a widely used method of applying colours or patterns to fabric. Resist dye techniques include tie-dyeing and applied resist.
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Introduction to tapestries
Tapestry is an ancient technique of weaving. The pattern is woven in blocks of coloured weft thread which are then beaten down very tightly on the warp threads, producing a…
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Central Asian ikats from the Rau collection
Ikat is a style of weaving that uses a resist dyeing process similar to tie-dye on either the warp or weft before the threads are woven to create a pattern or design.
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Making ikat cloth
The following series of images show how Central Asian ikats are made, and are specific to current ikat production at Marghilan in Uzbekistan. The workshop there continues t…
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Study Rooms
The V&A has a number of study rooms where additional material from the collections can be viewed.
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V&A Members enjoy a wealth of benefits, including free entry to exhibitions, previews, exciting events and the V&A Members’ Room. In addition, you will be supporting the vital work of the V&A.
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Chinese Textiles

A stunning title in the popular V&A Far Eastern series. Each Chinese textile tells a story and this book tells many stories of Chinese life and le…
Buy nowEvent - Monday Craft Club: English Embroidery of the Tudor & Stuart Courts
Mon 06 May 2013–Mon 13 May 2013

6 WEEK PRACTICAL COURSE: Explore traditional hand embroidery techniques of the Tudor & Stuart period.
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