Redwork Embroidery - Nineteenth Century Style

Redwork Embroidery
Nineteenth Century Style

Pillow Shams and an Apron

A photo essay by Patricia Cummings and James Cummings

This file is being set up to show you some examples of authentic Redwork embroidery that was created in the nineteenth century. As you will see, a number of these pieces are pillow shams. The person who made them might possibly be the same person thought to have created the Crazy Quilt topper shown in a separate file.

Apparently, whoever made the following items recycled old bed sheets and embroidered them with popular designs of the day. These pieces consist of one layer of cloth, with the edges turned over in the same way as the top of bed sheets.

Victorian Age Pillow Shams

Lewis Collection - Redwork Good Morning Sham

As you can see, a little girl is coming down the stairs with her dolly.

Lewis collection - good night pillow sham

This pillow sham reminds us of many other Victorian angel designs.

Lewis collection - Lilies pillow sham

A lovely flowing design of Lilies is embroidered on this Victorian Age pillow sham. A companion sham is not shown.

Pair of Redwork Shams Feature A Verse

"Sweet Lilies Close Their Leaves At Night
And Open With the Morning Light."

Sweet Lilies Redwork Sham from the Lewis collection

First of a pair of pillow shams. The next one completes the thought.

An Addition to the Collection, Purchased Recently by Pat

Nineteenth Century Redwork Apron with Lace Trim

A beautiful floral design graces the lower front of this Redwork embroidered apron that has netted lace. This looked like a rumpled rag in the bottom of a box at a dealer's shop. Goes to show what a little bit of tender loving care can do!

Redwork Embroidery Nineteenth Century Style

Redwork Embroidery
Nineteenth Century Style