Hardanger Embroidery: A Beginner's Guide

Hardanger embroidery is generally done with white thread on white fabric that has an even weave. It is the weave of the fabric that allows for the commonly seen shapes of squares, triangles, hearts, and crosses. The exact location of the beginnings of the Hardanger embroidery is not truly known; however, Asia and Persia have some of the earliest recorded pieces. Norway also takes credit for much of the development of the designs and techniques. For a person just learning this form of hand embroidery, the counting of stitches is the most important element.

Although there are many books to learn this form of embroidery, if at all possible, locate someone that knows how to properly work the Hardanger embroidery and ask them for assistance in getting started. Although the true Hardanger involves the use of white thread, or thread as close to matching to the fabric as possible, as you are learning, you may find it useful to use a colored thread. This will help you to actually see your stitches and become familiar with the terms used and the counting required to get the correct design. You will be making kloster blocks. These are what each main design revolves around. You may have an apron, for example, that has Hardanger embroidery along the lower half which is made up of perhaps eight kloster blocks of the same or varying design.

As you get ready to learn the art of Hardanger embroidery, be sure you have the proper supplies on hand. The work is done with tapestry needles, depending upon the size thread you are using. Very sharp, angle-tipped scissors are also necessary, as is an embroidery hoop to hold the fabric very taunt. As you develop your skills with this type of handicraft, you will develop your own patterns and techniques for working its magic.