Embroidery in the 18th century was a business, not just a domestic pursuit. In an age before machine stitching, embroidered clothing was a sign of status. It is a testament to the skills of 18th-century embroiderers that clothing of that period is so treasured, with many pieces now in museums. This book is full of photography and illustrations of embroidered waistcoats, stomachers, whitework and fabrics held in UK museums.
My interest in embroidery began when I studied costume- making at the London College of Fashion. Reading this book I was struck by how little the techniques of pattern cutting and hand decoration have changed.
Tunbridge Wells was a place to see and be seen in the 18th century and some of the lavish gowns and waistcoats of the time are in the collections of Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery, where I work. After reading Marsh’s book, I have a renewed respect for the craftspeople who created them.
Joanna Wiltcher is the shared museums manager for Maidstone Borough Council and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council
My interest in embroidery began when I studied costume- making at the London College of Fashion. Reading this book I was struck by how little the techniques of pattern cutting and hand decoration have changed.
Tunbridge Wells was a place to see and be seen in the 18th century and some of the lavish gowns and waistcoats of the time are in the collections of Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery, where I work. After reading Marsh’s book, I have a renewed respect for the craftspeople who created them.
Joanna Wiltcher is the shared museums manager for Maidstone Borough Council and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council
