By: Tammy Lawson

 VC> I'm not exactly sure what shadow work is.  I'll need to
 VC> haunt the library -

       Do you have the Anchor Manual of Needlework????? Everything you
       need to know about Shadow work (shadow stitching) is in there.

       Shadow work is carried out on transparent or very fine fabrics
       in Double Back Stitch, which is a variation of the Herringbone Stitch.
       The crossing threads of the stitch lie on the back of the fabric, so
       giving to the worked areas a more opaque quality. Organdie, fine
       linen lawn and muslin, crepe de chine and nylon are suitable fabrics
       for this embroidery which may be used for babies' and children's
       dresses, blouses and lingerie, table and dressing table mats, lamp
       shades and curtains. The most suitable thread for the embroidery is
       Coats Anchor Stranded cotton using one or two strands according to the
       type of background fabric. Although white thread is most often used
       upon a white background fabric, colors are very successful and give
       variety to the work. You work most of your stitches on the back, so
       when you turn it over your outline stands out and the rest of the
       design is shadowed. This is definately a form of needlework. I hope
       this helps. Most librarys have this book.