Delve into elegant Frisian whitework with historical whitework specialist, Yvette Stanton.
From Friesland in the Netherlands, this is a style of counted embroidery dating from the 1600s. It was traditionally used on men’s shirt collars, household linen, and samplers.
Whitework is usually stitched in white thread on white fabric and most Frisian whitework is worked this way. However, this technique can also have touches of colour, and some samplers are worked entirely in coloured thread. Alphabets, figurative motifs and geometric shapes are common, and they are interpreted in a wide variety of stitches, such as satin stitch, eyelets, whipped back stitch, and chain stitch; some also with cutwork and drawn thread work.
Explore how Frisian whitework featured on clothing and other textiles, and study the many photographs featuring historical examples. Yvette guides you though the stitches and techniques of Frisian whitework with clear step-by-step instructions and detailed diagrams, ensuring you'll have the confidence and skills to master ten original projects, from small through to large, with a range of useful and beautiful applications.
Praise for Frisian Whitework:
‘I'm so excited about Yvette's new book on Frisian whitework! When it comes to learning and honing skills in specific (and sometimes obscure) embroidery techniques from around the world, Yvette is one of the best authors you'll find. Her newest offering is another gem in her ever-expanding crown of instructive embroidery books. From the unique history behind the techniques of Frisian whitework, to the detailed, clear instruction reinforced with pristine, gorgeous projects, this book does not disappoint! You're going to love it!’ Mary Corbet, www.needlenthread.com
About Yvette Stanton
Yvette Stanton is an Australian embroidery historian and author, internationally recognised for her dedication to the documentation and preservation of traditional embroidery stitches and techniques. Yvette’s publications are grounded in rigorous research and are essential resources for both contemporary stitchers and those interested in traditional embroidery techniques.
Yvette’s work, with her clear step-by-step instruction, bridges the gap between academic-level research and practical embroidery education. Through her books, research, and public engagement, Yvette Stanton plays a vital role in ensuring that historical embroidery stitches and practices are not only remembered but revived, understood, and enjoyed by new generations of stitchers and scholars around the world.
Yvette has recently (in 2026) received the OAM (Medal of the Order of Australia), awarded to citizens of Australia in recognition of outstanding achievement, for her service to embroidery.
Yvette lives in Sydney, Australia.
Visit Yvette's:
Website at www.vettycreations.com.au
Facebook: vettycreations
Instagram: @vettycreations
YouTube channel: @yvettestanton
