In spite of this pedigree, new evidence and research have shown that North Africa, particularly Morocco, may have been the true birthplace of this style of embroidery. Blackwork is a counted thread technique, traditionally worked in black thread on white even-weave fabric, but today is often worked in multiple or other single colors. The site also features free patterns designed by Kim Salazar, Author of “The New Carolingian Modelbook” for borders and fillings. The website states, “Tom Pudding Designs published Jan Eaton’s designs for cross-stitch, blackwork, and needlepoint from 1999 until 2005. The original designs are gradually being made available here as free downloads, and there are a lot of designs here to see! Carol has also posted a helpful page covering fill patterns in detail, as well as working compensation stitches and tips for choosing a suitable fill. In addition to historical information, this page also discusses the embroidery fabrics, needles and threads or fibers typically used for blackwork, as well as tips and tricks, and techniques to try.
