The history of cross-stitch - from antiquity to the present day

2024 Author: Sierra Becker | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-26 03:46

The history of cross stitch as a separate type of needlework is unknown. However, even primitive people knew the basics of sewing. This is evidenced by the finds of archaeologists. During excavations, animal skins sewn with coarse stitches were found. Here were the first threads with needles. Both of them looked completely different from what they are now. Instead of threads, animal veins, wool, plant fibers, and hair were used. Needles were made of wood, stone, bristles, fish bones. The very first examples of cross-stitch were found in Egyptian tombs. According to experts, these works were created around 600-700 BC. From this it follows that the history of cross-stitch has more than 2.5 thousand years.

In each country, the history of cross-stitching developed in its own way. The style and colors of the drawings were noticeably different. As a rule, the images reflected national traditions, religious rites, as well as what was considered beautiful by a single people.

For example, cross-stitch in Western Europe, which became especially popular in the 16th century, reflected stories and texts from the Bible. At the end of the 18th century, the subjectimages became more diverse. Embroidery in the East was distinguished by the variety of colors used and the complexity of the ornament.

The history of cross-stitch in Russia dates back to the 10th century. The finds of archaeologists point to what was embroidered in Russia back then. Basically, these were images of symbols on costumes and household items. In the 18th century, all segments of the population were already engaged in this needlework. The theme of urban embroidery was constantly changing under the influence of Western fashion, and ancient customs and rituals continued to be reflected in peasant needlework.

The Russian cross-stitch primarily played the role of a talisman. Therefore, it was performed on the sleeves, neck and hem of the shirt - in places where the body comes into contact with the outside world. Towels and towels embroidered with a cross carried a symbol of fertility and the cult of ancestors. Each color, sign and symbol used in the work had a certain meaning. The history of cross-stitching in the regions of Russia developed differently. Each region used its own symbols and methods of ornamentation. Traditional embroidery among the people continued to exist until the second quarter of the 20th century.

Gradually strict traditions receded, and this needlework began to be practiced mainly for pleasure. Does not lose its popularity and now cross-stitch. Beautifully and easily, real masterpieces come out from under the needles of craftsmen! And now it does not have to be a long study. Enoughpurchase a ready-made canvas (canvas), threads (mulina) and needles to create your own unique pattern. In addition, for beginners, there are ready-made kits with everything you need, to which a diagram of the future image is also attached. The cells of the corresponding color are already marked on it, according to which you need to embroider. The choice of such sets is very diverse - from small and simple flowers to huge and complex landscapes. It remains only to decide and try this fascinating type of needlework.