Cross-stitch embroidery is an art that has inspired and attracted people for many centuries.
Over time, interest in this form of needlework only continues to grow. When we passionately engage in a craft, we strive to learn as much as possible about our favorite hobby.
That's why we have prepared 9 amazing facts about cross-stitch embroidery for you, which you may not have known.
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Cross-stitch embroidery is an ancient art. It originated in primitive times when animal skins were worn instead of clothing. Initially, skins were simply stitched together, but later such clothing began to be adorned with primitive stitches. They mainly embroidered with animal wool or hair, using primitive needles made of ivory.
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Since ancient times, embroidery has served as an amulet. In various cultures, it was used as a protective symbol against evil spirits, diseases, and misfortunes. Many peoples believed in the magical power of embroidery, believing that it could drive away evil spirits and bring prosperity. Therefore, they embroidered talismans on clothing, household textiles, and interior items.
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The earliest surviving embroideries date back to the 6th-5th centuries BCE. They were created in Ancient China. Silk fabric served as the basis for embroidery, and it was embroidered with gold, silver threads, or hair.
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In England, in the Middle Ages, embroidered gloves served as a symbol of offering one's hand and heart. Nowadays, rings are given, but in the past, an embroidered glove was given. It was a symbol of serious intentions and a marriage proposal. At the same time, the reciprocal gift of gloves from a lady confirmed her favor and consent to further courtship.
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Cross-stitch embroidery gained mass popularity in the 19th century. At that time, there was a significant breakthrough in the technologies of thread production and materials for embroidery, which made this type of needlework more accessible and attractive to the general public.
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The largest cross-stitch embroidery made by one person is a copy of the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, which was created by the great Michelangelo over 4 years. However, Joanna Lopianowski-Roberts spent a whole 10 years on her embroidery. And this is just part of an amazing story, as the development of the embroidery pattern took a whopping 700 hours. The size of this stunning work is 203 by 90 cm. This embroidery is included in the Guinness Book of Records.
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The largest cross-stitch pattern in the world contains a whopping 7,897,840 stitches. This is the painting "Battle of Grunwald". This magnificent work was created using modern computer technologies, but it was embroidered by living people, several craftswomen from Poland. This work demonstrates a unique combination of traditional methods and the latest technologies in the world of needlework.
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The longest embroidery, created based on the painting "Down the River During the Qingming Festival" by artist Xiao Liangchun, has an impressive length of 25 meters. The work on it was carried out for two years. It is made up of 3,150,000 stitches, 50,000 meters of thread, and 120 different colors.
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Embroidery is beneficial for health. Firstly, it is an excellent way to relax and relieve stress after a hectic day. Immersing oneself in the creative process of embroidery, a person gets distracted from everyday problems and worries, which contributes to reducing the level of stress and anxiety. In addition, embroidery contributes to improving concentration and attention. It helps to train the brain and improve cognitive functions. Also, embroidery can be useful for maintaining the health of fingers and hands. The fine movements performed during work with a needle and thread contribute to improving fine motor skills and joint flexibility.
We hope that these amazing facts have made cross-stitch embroidery even more fascinating and captivating for you. May each stitch bring joy and satisfaction, and may your creativity adorn the world around you.