Assisi Embroidery

Assisi Embroidery is a beautiful traditional counted embroidery technique that originated in the Italian town of Assisi. Unlike ordinary cross stitching, where the design itself is filled with stitches, Assisi embroidery leaves the main motif unstitched while the surrounding background is worked in counted cross stitches. This creates a striking silhouette, often featuring flowers, animals, birds, or graceful geometric shapes. The design is outlined with Holbein Stitch, also known as Double Running Stitch, which adds definition and delicate detail to the finished embroidery.

This intermediate counted embroidery course is designed for stitchers who are already comfortable working counted cross stitches on linen and would like to explore this fascinating traditional technique. You'll enjoy step-by-step video lessons, along with helpful downloadable documents, including Stitching Basics and a special small embroidery pattern designed to help you practise your new skills.

One of the pleasures of Assisi Embroidery is watching the design emerge as you stitch the background around it. I'll show you how to work the Holbein Stitch to create neat, continuous outlines, and how to combine it with counted cross stitches for a beautiful finished effect. Traditionally worked in a limited palette of colours, Assisi embroidery is especially attractive when stitched with contrasting threads that emphasize its distinctive patterns.

If you're new to counted stitching on linen, I recommend taking my Introduction to Cross Stitching on Linen course first. Learning to count fabric threads accurately will give you the confidence to explore Assisi Embroidery and other beautiful counted techniques.

Join me as we explore Assisi Embroidery and the Holbein Stitch together, practising on a doodle cloth at your own pace. Enjoy discovering this lovely traditional technique, and feel free to share your stitching progress and finished work on social media. I'd love to see what you create!