Mountmellick

Mountmellick embroidery is highly textured with many knotted and padded stitches used. Part of the fun of working Mountmellick embroidery is playing around with the stitches and working variations of them. On some historical examples of Mountmellick, there were only a limited number of stitches used. However, due to all their variations, the effect produced was highly patterned and varied. There are a number of stitches that are regarded as unique to Mountmellick embroidery:

Mountmellick stitch. This odd lopsided stitch probably first originated as a mistaken version of Palestrina knot stitch, known as double knot stitch to the stitchers in Mountmellick. Interestingly, while the stitch has become so strongly associated with Mountmellick that it bears its name, to date Mountmellick stitch has not been found on any historical examples.
Mountmellick thorn stitch. This stitch is a feather stitch with a french knot incorporated into it.
Cable plait stitch. This is a very intricate stitch that produces a lovely woven cord effect. It is closely related to cable chain stitch.

The Mountmellick knitted fringe

Mountmellick embroidery is traditionally edged in buttonhole stitch (often in scallops) to which a knitted fringe is attached. It is made using an ingenious method to create the fringe. Many times I have demonstrated the technique at needlework and craft shows, and the most common response is for people's jaws to drop open when they see how simple the fringing is!

The lace section of the knitting has thick ridges contrasting with lines of more open knitting. The ridges and open parts are created by increasing and decreasing stitches during the knitting process.

There are a number of different patterns that can be used to create the Mountmellick knitted lace/fringe. 3 or 4 strands of yarn are used together, which gives it its fullness.

Mountmellick embroidery for today

Mountmellick embroidery is highly suitable for use in the contemporary home. Although it is white, it can be used on many items of daily household use, as it can easily be boiled white again. Because it is so sturdy, the embroidery holds up well to this treatment.

bedspreads or coverlets
table mats
runners
doilies
table cloths
curtains
lampshades
clothing
cushions and pillows
bags
designs to be framed
anything else you can think of!

It is because of the sturdiness of both the stitches and fabric, that there are so many surviving examples of Mountmellick embroidery. Those that have not survived to the present day are more likely to have fallen victim to changing fashions, rather than wear and tear or moths.

The present revival began in the 1960s when Sister Teresa Margaret McCarthy of the Mountmellick Presentation Convent began to investigate the style. Based on the historical examples that were shown to her, she taught herself the style and began to teach others. Sr Teresa is highly respected and is credited with being the driving force behind the revival.

Learning Mountmellick embroidery

Mountmellick Embroidery: Inspired by Nature by Yvette Stanton and Prue Scott. 2nd, fully revised edition is now available. Our first edition was so popular that it went out of print very quickly, so we have fully revised it. The new edition is full colour, 104 pages, with heaps of additional information and photos.
Mountmellick embroidery classes with Yvette Stanton. Yvette regularly teaches Mountmellick at shops and guild groups around Australia. She is an accredited tutor with the NSW Embroiderers Guild.
Video Learn how to create the knitted fringe that is characteristic of Mountmellick embroidery with Yvette Stanton's video tutorial instructions.
Mountmellick embroidery discussion group. This Yahoo group is for anyone who wants to learn more about Mountmellick embroidery. Ask as many questions as you like, and have them answered by Prue Scott and Yvette Stanton, authors of "Mountmellick Embroidery: Inspired by Nature". Discuss your current project or tell us about the Mountmellick treasure you have in your family linen collection!

Where to see Mountmellick embroidery

On our Needlework Resource Links page, you can find an extensive listing of museum collections containing Mountmellick embroidery. Many collections do not ordinarily have Mountmellick on display. It is therefore always recommended that you book in advance with the appropriate curator, stating what you would like to see, so that you will not be disappointed.

Mountmellick embroidery supplies

Because Mountmellick embroidery is an historical style of embroidery, materials as close to the traditional ones should be used. Our page on Mountmellick embroidery supplies provides more detail on what to use and where to get it.

Vetty Creations has a full range of Mountmellick embroidery supplies, including thread, fabric, knitting cotton, needles and kits, available for purchase. Purchase Mountmellick embroidery supplies.

Further reading about Mountmellick embroidery

For further reading on the subject, we have provided a handy listing of Mountmellick embroidery books. While some are out of print, they may be available through public or needlework guild libraries, or from second-hand bookshops.