Holbein Stitch: Step by Step of a Pattern from Jane Seymour's Cuffs from 1536

Holbein stitch, also referred to as double-running stitch or Spanish stitch, is a reversible stitch used in early 16th century blackwork embroidery. Follow along (video down below) step by step as I embroider a geometric looking flower pattern from the cuffs of Jane Seymour, the third wife of King Henry VIII of England. 

 

 

Here is the full pattern found on the cuffs of Jane Seymour:

 

 

            Picture Credit: 

- Holbein d. J., Hans. “Jane Seymour.” Kunst Historisches Museum Wien. https://www.khm.at/en/objectdb/detail/966/. 

 

 

 

 

         Suggested Videos: 

- Holbein Stitch: https://youtu.be/YREAFK13ziM 

- Pin Pillows: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKKpxvYHrXg 

- Introduction to Blackwork Embroidery: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWQYMZHuXhc 

- Blackwork Embroidery Tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGIU7WvBx1I 

 

 

       Suggested Items for Purchase: 

- Embroidery Stand: https://amzn.to/468W4Tz 

- Embroidery Hoops: https://amzn.to/467ezHP 

- Sewing Needles: https://amzn.to/3PWtH5d 

- Silk Embroidery Thread: https://amzn.to/3PVh5LB

 - Embroidery Scissors: https://amzn.to/3rKAs0W 

- Linen Fabric: https://amzn.to/3m1bsuJ