Hardanger Embroidery

Day 35: Hardanger embroidery was brought to its height in the Norwegian district which gives it its name. A simple needleart to learn, its patterns are geometric for the most part. The fabric used in Hardanger is generally a simple tabby-woven cloth such as Lugana or Jubilee, available in a number of different thread counts, and the thread most often used is perle cotton in several weights.

As opposed to drawnwork where all threads are left in place in the fabric, Hardanger is a form of cutwork. Clusters of stitches (Kloster blocks) frame open areas and provide stability where severed threads terminate. Various pattern stitches may fill any or all of the open areas. Oftentimes, satin and stem stitch embroideries will be used to embellish the pieces, although traditionally, Hardanger is comprised solely of Kloster blocks, wrapped threads and pattern stitches within openings.