By: Jan Dunmyer

What is Schwalm work???

Schwalm work is named for an embroidery technique originally from an
area of Germany known as the Schwalm. The oldest embroideries date back
to 1787 and 1793.

The floral motifs have lines & outlines worked in Coral Stitch
(sometimes chain stitch). The outlines of the motifs are further
edged with a buttonhole scallop. The centers of the motifs have openwork
grounds worked in drawn thread or withdrawn techniques.

There is a museum in Germany devoted to Schwalm work - The Museum of the
Schwalmer Heimatbund in Schwalmstad.

An example of Schwalm work can be seen in the top band (the heart) of
Linda Driskell's Sampler - "Heirloom Whitework Sampler"