Hardanger embroidery

The weave gives a squared appearance to the fabric (similar to Aida cloth), with distinct holes, making it easy to count and work on.

Traditional Hardanger embroidery is worked with linen thread colour that matches the fabric, usually white or cream.

Various decorative filling stitches are then worked over the remaining loose threads and holes to create a lacy effect.

Some of the stitches and special techniques used are: The traditional style of Hardanger work is very geometrical in form and based on several basic shapes such as squares, rectangles, triangles, diamonds, hearts, zig-zags and crosses.

Some Lutheran pastors of Norwegian descent in the United States have had stoles embroidered with Hardanger work made for their use.

Even the traditional alternating cross and chalice motif of Norwegian Hardanger work is now found in American Lutheran churches.

Example of modern Hardanger embroidery work
Hardanger embroidery sample, from a 1907 needlework magazine.