Hardanger embroidery coasters – Free sewing patterns – Sew Magazine

Hardanger is a traditional Norwegian embroidery technique that combines drawn thread work and cutwork. It is worked on Hardanger fabric, an evenweave, using perle cotton. Geometric patterns are built up by stitching kloster blocks, which are made in a counted thread satin stitch. Exposed threads are then cut and withdrawn, and some of the remaining threads are overcast to create decorative bars that link the design together. In this project, it has been used to create coasters in a simple blue and white combination, although you could give it a contemporary twist with different coloured threads and fabrics.