Bayeux Point (stitch technique) with subtitles, as seen on the Quaker Tapestry

Bayeux Point or Bayeux stitch is one of the 'crewel embroidery' stitches used on the Quaker Tapestry. It's a stitch technique - a method of laying threads which has gained its name from the 11th century Bayeux Tapestry. In Bayeux Point the majority of the wool thread remains on the surface, so it is a very economical and suitable technique for decorative work. There are examples on the Quaker Tapestry panels of embroidery of quite complex embellished Bayeux point, where the step two and three stages of Bayeux are replaced with other stitches to hold the fabric in place. You can also use just the step one, (the foundation layer) by itself if the shape to infill is small.

More information and detailed step-by-step instructions with photographs can be found in our Quaker Tapestry Stitch Guide Book. Stitch Guide - Quaker Tapestry (quaker-tapestry.co.uk)

General information about Narrative Crewel Embroidery.
The ‘crewel embroidery’ technique, just like the Bayeux Tapestry, is designed to dance freely across the surface of the fabric. There are no specific holes for the needle as in canvas work, and there is no counting of threads as in cross-stitch. The word ‘crewel’ comes from the ancient word describing the curl of the staple of the wool. Crewel wool has a long staple, which is fine and can be strongly twisted. Crewel embroidery takes its name from this wool.

The Quaker Tapestry is a modern masterpiece, in which 4,000 men, women and children from 15 countries had a hand. Journey through the Quaker influence on the modern world: explore the industrial revolution, developments in science and medicine, astronomy, the abolition of slavery, social reform, and ecology; and delight in the detail of the stunning needlework and craftsmanship involved in the creation of 77 vibrant embroidered panels.

Quaker Tapestry Museum, Kendal, Cumbria UK
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