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Silk shading

Also known as Needle painting, Long-and-short stitch embroidery, Thread painting, Painting with a needle

​Silk shading, painting with a needle, long and short stitch embroidery, thread painting: this technique goes by many names but the basis is one stitch, known as long and short stitch. Most likely first practised in China, where it is more commonly known as needle painting. Archaeological excavations have found embroideries that date back to at least the 2nd century BC.

In England, silk shading was first used in Opus Anglicanum embroidery (also known as English work), a technique used in the Mediaeval period. Most surviving examples of Opus Anglicanum silk shading are seen on church work and comprise silk-shaded faces, angels and animals.

The art of silk shading is still alive and well today. It is worked extensively in China to very high standards, and The Royal School of Needlework continues to teach this beautiful technique in new and innovative ways.

Further Reading

RSN Essential Stitch Guides: Silk Shading by Sarah Homfray
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The Royal School of Needlework Book of Embroidery by Various Authors
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Online RSN Courses

Introduction to Silk Shading
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Silk shading Stitches