Blackwork; What is it?

Blackwork is a form of Embroidery that creates geometric patterns using straight stitches, in order to create or fill design areas.

Apart from this, Blackwork can Vary in style, method and colour. As mentioned in Lady Roxanne's Blackwork Article;

Blackwork is black, except when it's not. Blackwork is reversible, except when it's not. Blackwork is a counted thread technique, except when it's not. Blackwork is called 'blackwork' except (you guessed it) when it's not.

So why is it called Blackwork? Which stitches do you use? Where did it come from and how has it changed over the years? Check out my next post to find out!