KATIE BELL

Jacobean Crewelwork

'Where Seasons Change, Swallows Fly'

 

Final size 210 x 297mm

On linen twill with Appletons wool

Over 30 stitches

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Swallows can signify the dawning of a new season. Created during my first year at the Royal School of Needlework, this Jacobean Crewelwork marks a new chapter after years of living with pain and major surgery. Beginning my three-year training as a professional embroiderer became a complete change of direction.

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Inspired by barn swallows swooping through the summer sky, the swallow symbolises freedom, lightness and optimism — reflecting my journey from pain to healing and new creative beginnings. The pomegranate, a traditional Jacobean emblem of hope, takes on a deeply personal meaning: through embroidery, I have found renewed wellbeing, pleasure and creative freedom.

 

Detail of sections:

• Tonal drawing

• Colour Drawing

• Preparation

• Pomegranate in Laid work, Detached Chain, Bullion knots, Raised Chain, Fly, Herringbone and Chain with French knots. 

• Swallow with Long and short, French Knots, Fly, and Seeding.

• Flower petals with Griffin Trellis, Chain, Fly, French Knots, Couching and Long and Short.