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Alison LarkinAlison Larkin is one of the UK's foremost experts in historical embroidery and costume. As a practising embroiderer, she explores traditional embroidery methods and researches the use of embroidery on costume, particularly in the Georgian period. Her current research is embroidery on men’s waistcoats during the eighteenth century.
Alison lectures on various aspects of needlework and has given recent talks at Fairfax House in York, the Society of Antiquaries in London, the University of Warwick, the Association of Dress Historians Annual Conference and for the podcast Stitchery Stories. She regularly runs classes and workshops on and demonstrations of traditional hand embroidery, both at her studio in Hull and elsewhere. She has won many awards and written for the journals Costume and The Journal of Dress History. Recent projects include her re-creation of the waistcoat stitched for Captain James Cook by his wife, Elizabeth, while he was on his third voyage (1776–1779). Her particular skill is in simplifying complex patterns and making them accessible to a new generation of modern stitchers. Alison's awards include: The Olga Stokes Cup for Ecclesiastical Embroidery (2003); the Maggie Judges Trophy for Flower Embroidery (2011); the Yorkshire and The Humber Challenge Cup (2012); and in 2013 the Constance Howard Award for Hand Embroidery (Embroiderers' Guild Members Challenge: National Competition). Alison's first book JANE AUSTEN EMBROIDERY was published in 2020 by Pavilion and explores the sitching of Jane Austen and includes 15 projects showcasing 18th century design. Visit Alison's website. Follow Alison on Twitter. Follow Alison on Instagram. |
Praise for Alison Larkin
‘Perfect for any fan of Jane Austen’s work’ Stitch Magazine
'A great historical resource and prime inspiration for history bounding enthusiasts…I feel like this book is a perfect combination of historical research and creative ways to use the reproduced patterns.' Drunk Austen, Bianca Hernandez
“A very accessible book and one that will appeal to a variety of readers…I am much looking forward to settling down to make some of the articles given in it.” Mary Hogg, Jane Austen Society Newsletter
'A fascinating overview of embroidery in Austen's Britain, with each chapter expanding on this, with frequent references to Austen's characters' attire, or her life and letters. In a nod to authenticity, the projects although accurate, are highly traditional... but aside from this detail, the text and the modern illustrations more than make up for this.' Embroidery Magazine
'This unique book from Jennie Batchelor and Alison Larkin showcases recently discovered 18th century embroidery patterns expertly repurposed into 15 exciting modern stitching projects. The patterns and projects are brought to life with glimpses into the world of Regency women and their domestic lives by lively historical features, quotes from Jane Austen’s letters and novels, enchanting illustrations and inspirational project photography.' Contact Magazine
'If you're a bona fide Austen fan, this novel book has plenty of embroidery ideas you can stich with pride (no prejudice in sight!)' Simply Sewing
'A fascinating and unique book...If you’ve ever swooned over Mr. Darcy or dreamed of Empire Line dresses and beribboned dance cards, then this...is just for you.' Classic Inspirations Magazine
‘Perfect for any fan of Jane Austen’s work’ Stitch Magazine
'A great historical resource and prime inspiration for history bounding enthusiasts…I feel like this book is a perfect combination of historical research and creative ways to use the reproduced patterns.' Drunk Austen, Bianca Hernandez
“A very accessible book and one that will appeal to a variety of readers…I am much looking forward to settling down to make some of the articles given in it.” Mary Hogg, Jane Austen Society Newsletter
'A fascinating overview of embroidery in Austen's Britain, with each chapter expanding on this, with frequent references to Austen's characters' attire, or her life and letters. In a nod to authenticity, the projects although accurate, are highly traditional... but aside from this detail, the text and the modern illustrations more than make up for this.' Embroidery Magazine
'This unique book from Jennie Batchelor and Alison Larkin showcases recently discovered 18th century embroidery patterns expertly repurposed into 15 exciting modern stitching projects. The patterns and projects are brought to life with glimpses into the world of Regency women and their domestic lives by lively historical features, quotes from Jane Austen’s letters and novels, enchanting illustrations and inspirational project photography.' Contact Magazine
'If you're a bona fide Austen fan, this novel book has plenty of embroidery ideas you can stich with pride (no prejudice in sight!)' Simply Sewing
'A fascinating and unique book...If you’ve ever swooned over Mr. Darcy or dreamed of Empire Line dresses and beribboned dance cards, then this...is just for you.' Classic Inspirations Magazine
