CREWEL EMBROIDERY
Crewel embroidery is typically done with a thin wool thread on linen or cotton fabric. Crewelwork provides texture not seen in silk or cotton embroidery it is a special kind of embroidery done with a pointed hook used for drapery and upholstery known as crewel. Because of the high quality of embroidery done on wall hangings and rugs, Kashmiri crewel-work is in great demand throughout the world.
Crewel is basically similar to chain stitch. It is also chain stitch done on white background, but here the motifs, mainly stylized flowers, do not cover the entire surface, and the background is not embroidered upon. Wool is almost invariably used in crewel-work and colour schemes are not as elaborate as in chain stitch. This fabric is available in bolts and is sold by length. They make excellent household furnishings, being washable both by hand or machine. All embroidery is hand done in either single or double ply wool. Designs are available in an assortment of colours ranging from a single colour to multi colour embroidery.
The price of the item is related to the amount of embroidery done on the material. The craft is also available on Bedspreads, Cushion Covers, Throws, Shams, Curtain Drops and Duvets Covers. Items made from Crewel are not only popular in domestic markets but they also have a demand offshores, where huge consignments are exported every year.