To discuss crewel, we must start with a brief tutorial on floss. Not the teeth kind though. That's not quite as fun.

: I get off on the pain I inflict!

I'm talking about the kind that comes in amazing colors and thickness. The kind you can do anything with! Like this:

Not all threads are created equal. Quite obviously, there are different thicknesses- which achieve different effects. But there are also different thread compositions. Cotton thread, acrylic thread, wool thread, metallic thread. I could go on. But this is about Crewel threads. And that means wool.

The name itself, Crewel, is taken from the ancient word describing the curl in the hair of the wool. It is largely a free form style of embroidery where the design is outlined and then filled in with stitches. Heavier fabrics are necessary, as is a hoop to provide stability to the piece.

In the height of Crewel embroidery (17th century) it was used to embellish pillows, draperies, and wall hangings. Today, it is used for much the same end, the difference being largely design oriented. Pastoral scenes have gotten an upgrade.

: Crewelty to animals

Or perhaps, you fancy yourself to be tougher than the average creweler. Well, for you, I throw this gauntlet.

: Bite me.

I shall leave you with this thought.

"Deliberate cruelty is unforgivable." (Blanche Dubois, A Streetcar Named Desire)

However, "Deliberate crewelty is crafy and fun." (Allie Bennett, Owner at Stitchville)