Ruth Chamberline’s Beginner’s Guide to Goldwork (which I reviewed about five years ago) is an excellent instructional book in silk and goldwork embroidery. Meandering through my bookshelf the other day, I took the book out and started browsing through it. Next thing I knew, I was reading it again, cover to cover. It’s a terrific instructional book!
While Beginner’s Guide to Goldwork does not cover every aspect of goldwork, what it does do is introduce the embroiderer to the wonderful world of goldwork and silk embroidery in a most beautiful, pleasant, and clever way. Ruth uses a gorgeous silk and goldwork sampler to take the reader through various approaches to goldwork embroidery, most of which focus on working with couched goldwork threads.
All the basics for beginning goldwork embroidery are covered in the book – from choosing the right materials to framing up fabric, transferring designs, and so forth.
The instruction in the book revolves around the different elements of the silk and goldwork sampler, with clear illustrations and explanations along the way.
There’s plenty of instructional stuff in here to get you started in the basics of combining silk and goldwork!
And of course, there are beautiful pictures of beautiful embroidery. (I do love beautiful pictures of beautiful embroidery.)
So, to celebrate finishing the end of the Medallion Project and to help spread around a wee bit of Goldwork Affection, I’d like to give away a copy of this book. If you don’t have it yet, you’ll find it a great addition to your reference library. I promise!
To enter the give-away, please follow these Really Simple Guidelines:
1. Leave a comment on this article on the website (not via e-mail and not any other article on the website). The easiest way to get to the comment form is to click this link, and it will take you straight to the comments.
2. In your comment, tell us a little about you and your relation with goldwork: Are you a beginner? Or have you tried goldwork embroidery before? What appeals to you most about goldwork? Anything along those lines will do!
3. Please make sure you leave a recognizable name, either in the comment area or in the “Name” line on the comment form.
4. Leave your comment before 5:00 am central time (Kansas, USA), Saturday, June 2nd. I’ll announce the winner this coming weekend.
This give-away is now closed! Thanks for participating!
And that’s really all you have to do! Crossing your fingers, kissing the computer screen, spitting in the wind, throwing salt over your shoulder – these things are all optional.
If you’re hankering to add this book to your own stitching library, fill out the comment form today!
I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you.
It may take a little while for your comment to appear, since comments are held in queue before they are admitted to the website (to prevent spam and to give me a chance to read them). If your comment doesn’t show up right away, please be patient. It will eventually!
What a gorgeous book! I’m such a beginner ~ what a treat this will be for some lucky someone ♥
I am a total beginner at goldwork but after seeing your work, I’d love to give it a try. I’m a crazyquilter and am always looking for new additions to my quilts.
Hi mary.
After watching the progress of your latest gold work project, it has inspired me to have a go at the stand alone Tudor rose. So inspiring was you piece that I have already decided how it will be mounted & the wooden box with aperture lid has arrived & is waiting to be polished varnished & lined with plush red velvet so that the finished gold work can be mounted in the top to make an heirloom trinket box.
being a newbie to gold work and fascinated by watching your medallion grow this book would be a godsend to a newbie like me & help me work with gold & satin.
keep up the good work & your inspiring tutorials. Your how to videos have been especially helpful.
Chris
You give away such treasures, Mary!
I have done a little goldwork so I am not an absolute beginner. Maybe I could describe myself as an ‘improver’ now. And
I am a complete beginner to goldwork. This book would be a great help as I get started. Thank you!
You give away such treasures, Mary!
I have done a little goldwork so I am not an absolute beginner. Maybe I could describe myself as an ‘improver’ now. And I would like to improve so I intend to do more goldwork projects. I especially like projects that combine silk and goldwork.
Thank you for another opportunity to win one of your treasurs.
Up until last year, goldwork was one form of embroidery I had relegated to the “not interested” basket. Then I did a course in stumpwork with a tutor who is also a goldwork expert. Through her, I discovered the many beautiful applications it has and have wanted to try it ever since.
Thanks for another great giveaway Mary
Hi Mary,
Oh my goodness. As I am just at the point in an ecclesiastical hanging that it is time to do the gold work, (which I have been avoiding as I’ve never done it before,) this would be soooooo helpful. I have been trying to do this project based entirely on your instructions from the gorgeous medalion project that you have just finished. I would love to read this book from cover to cover. As always, your comments have been extremely helpful and I could not have gotten as far as I have without them Thanks again
This is amazing. I followed the medallion project, as did my husband, with no idea that there was such a thing as gold work. Now I want to try this striking work. This book and article make it seem possible. Thanks for your practice and research on gold work and for bringing it to all of us.
I love embroidery and have done many different techniques but I have never done goldwork, which really intrigues me. I guess I would be considered a beginner when it comes to learning goldwork. Thank you for the opportunity to win a wonderful book.
Dear Mary
I have never done goldwork before, I am very interested in thread painting because of the shade gradiation. Have played with some stumpwork in the past, candlewicking, embroidery. I would love to learn how to do this and a chance to win the book. One has to crawl, before one can walk, wise words from my Mom. Thank you for all the amazing inspiration you give us all, not only the eye candy but also the more challenging topics, like our needles, I felt like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders. Yours in stitches, Maggie
Love the book! I am still a beginner in embroidery and I would love to learn goldwork. It is so beautiful and almost looks as if it could not be done by hand. I have so fallen in love with embroidery and I thank you for all the wonderful information on your site!
Hi Mary,
I am a complete beginner but i have started to plan my goldwork design and buy my backing fabric (possibly blue velvet). This book is on my list to purchase so i get get started in my goldwork project. I would get so much enjoyment and learnings from this book! Please consider me for your give away! Many thanks
I am a beginner. A senior. I love to sew. I would like to try gold work but have never done it before and this looks like a wonderful start. I hope I am lucky, but if not, will continue to watch and wonder at your wonderful website. All sewers and embroiderers should be watching and listening to you and your instructions to make the most beautiful work, which I call art work. Thanks
Goldwork – a beautiful mystery. I love to look at it, can look at it for hours. Stitch it, not so much. I don’t have a clue about what gold to purchase, does it take different needles, or in general anything about using it. I’d love to learn a new technique.
Mary,
What a lovely giveaway! I have never tried Goldwork embroidery although I’ve read many articles about it, and avidly followed the progress of the Goldwork Medallion project.
It boils down to this: I am just plain terrified of the idea of trying goldwork embroidery – yes! It seems to delicate and so complicated, and so..intimidating. I think this lovely book, with its emphasis on creating a sampler, and going step-by-step would be just the solution to help me overcome my “goldwork jitters”, and would love to own it.
-Sharon in France
Wee bit? Mary, this is a generous helping of goldwork affection’ that I’ll happily overdose on. I’ve never tried goldwork before but its too enticing to ignore for long. I want to begin but don’t know just how and where. I’d love to own this book and create shiny, burnished motifs on a kurta, a framed ecclesiastical cross for a priest friend something for a sari. Thank you for your generosity. Fingers crossed.
About 25 years ago, I took a beginning Japanese embroidery class at an EGA National Seminar, the project is still unfinished. So I am still a beginner in goldwork and this book might would help me complete the above mentioned project.
I own this book and agree….it’s an excellent book.
I was so thrilled to see the book for beginners on goldwork! I am getting ready to
finish a piece of goldwork for our Altar which came to my church in Charleston, SC from another church and had never been finished. I am a novice embroiderer and I think I can do the goldwork with some help from a book like this.
I began stitching when both my children left for college. I was lucky enough to have a next door neighbor who did beautiful work, attended many EGA and Japanese embroidery seminars. I now belong to a small embroidery chapter and once again lucky enough to have some excellent and enthusiastic stitchers. Although I love goldwork, I have never done it. I would like to but just too scared and simply lack of knowledge.
I have done a little goldwork, but have always admired this book, particularly the beurtiful sampler on the cover. My favaroite part is the tudor rose! I would love to wint the book.
Hello Mary,
I m from India i have never tried goldwork. I m a beginner and definitely want to try this and want learn the techniques the best part of goldwork which attracts me more is beautiful colors and shading.my fingers crossed
Thanks
Embroidery it’s what I do. I live and breathe for my embroidery and Gold work is a vital part of it. My 1st venture into “Goldwork” was 20 years ago when I tried it with a visiting tutor from the Victorian Embroiderers Guild (Australia.) I did not touch it again until 4 years ago at Koala Conventions when I did a workshop with Alison Cole and followed it up again last year with another workshop with Alison, called The Iris. I have just started some Elizabethen Embroidery for the 1st time and I love the gold work incorporated in that too. I love the richness and the sumptiousness of the gold. It conects me to all those embroiderers who have gone before me and left their skils and knowledge for me to enjoy. I would love this book to help build my gold work skills even more.
I have not tried goldwork yet, but will some day. The thing that draws me to it is the bling! Combined with silk it is truly decadent.
Reading about and viewing goldwork so far , starting my first small item end of summer , I enjoy reading your site very informative.
Hello Mary,
Yes I am a beginner, very beginner. I have been following the médaillon work and with this book I could learn the basic of goldwork.
I am a teacher in knitting and crochet and I do embroidery on my knitting project.
Goldwork techniques would be a plus for special garments.
Thank you for every tips and usefull information I get from you.
Oh, What great timing!!! I’m working on a project that I was thinking of trying to do some gold work on. Boy, would this book come in handy! I’m a little apprehensive of starting to do gold work, since I really don’t know the proper way to do it. I GREATLY appreciate the opportunity to win this book!!! Thanks sooo much! Elaine
Oh, this a a book that would be of great help for me, as a beginner in embroidery! I would love to have it! Thank you for this opportunity!
Since discovering your blog Im addicted to Goldwork and have started to do a little bit of work for my Church. I would love a bit of extra assistance so this book would be great! Plus if I keep buying all the books you review Mary, I think I might have to take out a mortgage!
Hi Mary, Gee just looking at the illustrations in that book makes one want to start a project right away. I have just started a Jacobean Project of a cushion cover in browns and old golds with a fair amount of emblishment to boot. It has made me start looking at Goldwork in general. I must admit that once i was all set up I just acnnot put it down, and I can imagine the goldwork would be worse. The result one gets is quite amazing. It would just be nice to have a book which would give you the tips etc to make getting started easy. Once again, thanks for all you tips and inspiration. I really look forward to your daily emails.
Oh Mary…I am in love with gold work! I have lots of the necessary supplies and have all the enthusiasm and desire to make beautiful things…what I lack is the confidence to work with gold. I have been looking for a great book with instructions and designs that inspire me to really sit down and DO this! The book you are offering looks like it might be it. I love all needlework and am currently working on a stumpwork design, which should be finished soon. I would love to sit in a shady place this summer and really immerse myself in gold work! Watching your progress on the Medallion project really whet my appetite for adding this skill to my bag of tricks. Thank you for being an inspiration and for offering this wonderful book! Laurie
This book looks amazing. I’m pretty new to embroidery – I’m working on my first self-designed silk shading project and am set to start a two week course at the Royal School of Needlework in July studying Jacobean Crewelwork – but it’s such a wonderful skill. Goldwork is the next thing I would like to start learning as I’d love to understand the technical skills.
For me, embroidery is such a wonderful thing to learn because of the way it grounds you in a rich heritage. A family friend gave me a stack of old embroidery silks and books that were her beloved aunt’s; it felt like a gift from a master embroideress to a fledgling and was a real honour. Learning to do something that honours tradition and real creative skill has got to be a great thing.
Bonjour Mary!
I confess I’m a total newbie to this type of needlework, I have never tried goldwork embroidery but would be more than happy to give it a try, it seems so gorgeous! Gold add depth and magnificence to the embroidery.
I think that these golden threads add even a touch of magic and “make sing” the colors.
Have a lovely day, Mary!
Wow, this book looks so awesome! I am totally new to goldwork and am living vicariously through your daily posts. This is one thing I am really anxious to delve into and this book would be just the perfect thing to have!!
Thanks for the giveaway!!
Deborah
I haven’t tried goldwork yet, but I would like to. Following your medallion project, I keep thinking of making something for the priest at my parish. So I need to get practicing!
Just what I’ll need: a guide for beginners! It seems to be really well explained.
Following your project my desire to try goldwork increased and, as I told in other comments, I’ll like to bring lightfull shining in my whitework.
So… thank you and… I’m crossing my fingers!
Mary, thanks for another opportunity to learn more. I am a beginner and looking through the photos in this book makes my fingers itchy to start. Such elegant beauty!
I’m a fiber artist that combines embroidery work in my art quilts. I’ve never done any gold work but seeing your work and just a peek at this book I would love to attempt my hand at this technique. Thanks so much (again) for all your tips!!!! You keep us inspired and educated!
i would love to win this book, i am into silk ribbon and cotton embroidery know but need to continue to learn to invest in gold threads…thanks for this opportunity…dianne
watching you complete the medallion for the vestment makes me want to improve my gold working. I had taken a 2-day course (and even completed the project). Your work is truly inspiring!
I am a total begineer at goldwork but would love to try. I have embroidered albs for my son and would like to try a chausible and stole. Goldwork would really enhance this. Thank you for the opportunity. Sue
I’ve learned alot from your website. I embroider in silk, but I would definitely like to try goldwork if I the opportunity arose. It would be wonderful to win such a beautiful book! Thanks again for all the great lessons on your site!
What a beautiful book! I have done some gold work but can always use more instruction! My passion is surface embroidery…where gold work works so well! Would love to add this book to my library. Spit, toss, kiss-kiss and fingers crossed!
What a great book! I know very little about goldwork and after watching your Medallion Project (with bated breath) I am more interested in the possibility of trying it myself. I use a simple gold thread for that touch of bling but didn’t realize just how many different styles of thread there are. Thanks for another great offer!
Hi Mary! I would love to have a relationship with gold work, but alas, have not had the chance yet! I love your blog posts with all their inspiration! And the fact that it comes directly to my inbox, doesn’t hurt either!
Seriously, gold work looks like so much fun, and gold is my favourite colour, well next to pink! All that bling-y, shiny, glinting metal, my heart skips a beat! Thanks for the chance to win such an awsome book!
Oh, my! I’m just beginning to do embroidery again after starting in my youth. But I’ve never done anything so beautiful as the work that I see on your website. I so glad that I found you. I’m 71 and I am loving the time that I work on something beautiful to give to my children and friends. Thank you again for the most-helpful tips and beautiful work.
Have never tried goldwork embroidery. This looks like a good book to begin learning.
Hi Mary – what a wonderful book!! I have not done any gold work, your medallion work has got me thinking I might like to give it a try and the book would be a great way to start – thanks again for your wonderful emails full on inspiration and you great giveaways – happy stitching everyone
Ciao Mary, qui in Italia tutto trema……. Almeno un libro che ci faccia sognare ancora un po’. Sei bravissima… E’ un piacere seguire i tuoi post. Un bacio Michela
Oh Mary! Another beautiful book giveaway. I have not tried goldwork but I have drooled over examples of it and would very much like to try this technique one day. I’ll be honest. It looks scary and intimidating. Maybe if I am lucky and win this book, I’ll work up the courage to give it go!
Thanks again.
Tania
I have not tried goldwork before but have been VERY excited and inspired from the Medallion project. This book would be a wonderful addition to my needlework book collection!
Mary, I am in the process of making a third cousin of your beautiful Medallion. Though mine will most likely be a framed gift.
In this second attempt at gold work I am finding a dire need for more instruction in photo format to hone my metal working skills.
I know their are hundreds more deserving than me, but I sure would enjoy such a book as you are offering in this give away. I can truly say I hope I win! Hugs and great blessings to you for your tremendous generosity and fantastic teaching skills which you so lovingly share.
I’ve never done any silk or goldwork embroidery, but I would love to try it. I love the richness and the sparkle of the examples I’ve seen and I also love the historical connections, the links with the past it has.
Thank you for giving us a chance to win this beautiful book
Kathy Penningto
Diggins, MO
Thank you Mary for offering such a lovely beginner book! The strawberries in pic#4 above look shortcake-ready. With a few classes under my belt, I’m not a newbie but not an expert either. Class notes are semi-organized in binders so this book would save the rummaging & might even help finish some UFOs. What’s NOT to like about goldwork!?! But to pick one element–it’s the bling of course. Here’s hoping I win–or know the gal who does!
hello.
i am a beginner in goldwork embroidery and i really want to make some..
love vicky
I would love to win this book!
I have bought a couple of other books you have recommended and they are all that you said:-)
Being a beginner in goldwork I’m absolutely sure that I could learn the basics from this book that you recommend.
I’ll cross my fingers, kiss the computerscreen and even play with a cat if it helps me to win!
Mary, já pensei em importar esse livro. Ele tem o passo-a-passo fácil? Sou do Brasil e fica difícil se o livro for só de leitura. Importo os livros e aprendo olhando o passo-a-passo. Obrigada,abraços, Algecira
Oh my goodness, this is so beautiful!!! I love all types of embroidery and lacework, and I wanted to learn goldwork more like enhancement of embroidery, so beginner/intermediate level is enough for me (at least this is what I think now). To my wishlist definitely it goes. Thank you again, for recommendation.
I have never done any goldwork before. I’m loving the goldwork that you have done. I would love to win this book, so it would give me extra incentive to learn how to do it. Thank you for having the giveaway.
I have never done gold work and never thought much about it, til I saw you do it. I’m planning to try it. Thanks for all you do to show us great stitching!!
I have not tried goldwork but would love to do so. I drool over the pictures of it a lot.
I’m involved in a project of repairing altar vestments for our church, and have had to replace some missing goldwork. I’ve managed as best I could, but I’m not totally satisfied with the results. I’m going to be creating some new pieces, and could certainly use some instruction in proper goldwork techniques and materials, as well as inspiration regarding the possibilities! Thank you for your enjoyable website!
I stitch may things in many styles as you can see on my blog but i’ve never tried goldwork,I’m a complete beginner & this work is amazing for me.I cross my fingers as you told us & thanks alot to you for this giveaway!Béa
Thank you Mary for one more beautiful book!! wish I could win…I am not a beginner or did projects in gold work..only tried on few motifs with what we call Salma/jardosi..
Lakshmi Sadala
I am at the “pondering investing in” goldwork and looking at kits online stage. There’s something comforting about having a reference book to support a project. It’s probably something I would buy before I invested in materials.
I have never tried goldwork, and in fact only heard of it a couple years ago. Of course, now that I’ve seen your work, Mary, I can find it every time I go to church. It’s so very lovely, and, because it involves the use of something precious as well as lovely, it is perfectly suited for ecclesiastical work, where our very best is what is required. Thanks Mary.
The pictures are really beautiful and what an inspiration to try this
beautiful form of needlework. I would love to have this book.
What a beautiful book!!
I am completley new to gold work but am working on a project which I am dying to add some goldwork to. I am hand embroidering a king size quilt. Each square is made up of hand embroidered trees inspired by botanical drawings…..I think gold work would be the perfect addition to turn this into a family heirloom piece.
Thanks for such wonderful tips by the way…embarrassingly, I couldn’t do stem stitch until I came across your site one day
Beautiful color close-up photos. These examples will make it so much easier to follow the text.
I have yet to try any gold work but have been keen to try. I am currently studying the Cabinet of curiosities course and would like to include gold work in my design if I find myself able to do it. This book would certainly be of use in this.
Mary, I am new to goldwork, but I would love to learn more. I would love to have a book like this, it looks so beautiful. I love the medallion that you just finished. You should be very proud. It is good to know that even you, sometimes have to take out stitches. It makes me feel better to know that I am not alone.
Sharon K
I have taken a few beginner’s classes on goldwork, and I think I am now ready to try some projects on my own. Your description of this book makes it sound like a great reference to get me going. Thanks for offering it.
What a lovely book!!! I’m a complete beginner in silk or goldwork embroidery. I find these a little intimidating. But I would love to take my courage and try them. I absolutely LOVE botanical arts and silk and goldwork are ideal for this kind of work. Thank you for the generous giveaway and congratulations for the Medallion Projects. It’s exquisite and so beautiful!
I love your work and look forward to seeing what you are doing each time. I do embroidery for church work and this book would be a splendid addition to my collection of ‘how do I do each item’.
Thank you so much already for your lessons.
Neil
I am about to start a needlework casket course and i think this book would be very helpful!
I am new to goldwork, I love the look and the texture it adds to the embroidery. The pictures in the book look just beautiful. I love the ellegance of goldwork. It adds a richness to the piece. The colors in the book look wonderful and the pictures you show remind me of victorian times. Which is one of my favorite time periods.
I am a long time stitcher, but haven’t done goldwork since the 70′s and 80′s and am in the need of a review of this technique.
Embroidery is not new to me but goldwork is something I want to do and have not done. I have some gold thread and am saving to buy more. All I need is a good instructional book. I live in the country so there is no one close to give me instructions so I am hoping that this book will help me. Thank you for taking the time to show methods, stitches, hints, etc. It has improved my work.
I am a total beginner but … having watched the Medallion project evolve has made me fall in love and I am on fire to learn goldwork!
I really enjoyed watching you work the medallion – the result looks terrific. Having recently started doing some voluntary needlework for church projects Ruth Chamberline’s Beginners Guide to Goldwork would be a tremendous help to a newie at goldwork
Jenny.
Hi, I have just started following your website and just started learning Modern Jacobean.Gold work is the next technique I wish to learn and I just ordered the Hare Bell Kit from Tanja. Your website is excellent for showing me how to do the stitches and having this book would be wonderful. Your Medallion was wonderful a true labour of love and you should be very proud of it. Well done!!!
Linda
The goldwork shown here is breathtaking. Have you ever seen it done on a quilt? Thanks. Linda White
I have never tried goldwork before but am eager to learn! I hope to win this giveaway.
Hi Mary – I have never tried gold work as it seems a little intimidating, but I have dabbled in stump work. I am really drawn to gold work because I love really beautiful embroidery and aspire to doing some ecclesiastic alter linens for our parish.
I love gold work. I have only had one class on it. It was with Wendy Schoen. It was awesome. I am very tempted to start it again!!!
Oh would love to have this book. I have not tried gold work yet but your recent project has me itching to give it a go….but need a book to have handy!
Thanks for the giveaway and the inspirations!
Hi Mary,
I have not done gold work yet but really want to.So I have to be honest and say the book would never be dusty. Like my few needlework books that I own they are never on the shelf long enough. I am constantly drooling over them and trying to decide what I want to do next! So whoever wins will be very lucky!!!!!
Thanks again!
Hi Mary,
I have embroidered a lot, but have never attempted any goldwork yet. I have always wanted to…and after seeing your absolutely stunning medallion it makes me itching to do it. This book would be fabulous to teach me how to start. I love your emails everyday as I have learned SO MANY things about embrodiery that I didn’t know before. Thanks for having such a wonderful site! Yes, I threw some salt over my shoulder and kissed the screen in hopes I would be the lucky winner this time. Sherry
Dear Mary, I have never done goldwork embroydery, I have read about it for the first time through your blog and by following your work I have grown more and more inlove for this type of work. Unfortunatelly courses for this type of work are scarce and I haven’t found one near me… who knows one day I can learn.
elsa
Mary,
As I followed your Medallion Project I got emproidery fever – especially goldwork fever. I have never attemped to do goldwork and definately want to try it after watching your project. It will be such a treat to win this book – thanks for the opportunity. Amanda
Another Great giveaway Mary, thanks. I have done a fair bit of goldwork, but each book I look at teaches me something new. Since I don’t have this book, it would be a wonderful addition to my shelves. Who knows what precious tidbits I’d find withing its pages.
I have barely had an opportunity to try this direction of needlework . Like you, I can pour over beautiful pictures and Glenn bits and pieces from what I see. But to delve deeper, I need a better approach.
Your work is beautiful! I’ve never done goldwork but seeing your artistry really inspires me to want to try. Thank you for the opportunity to win your book. :0)
Hi,
I’m not an absolute beginner. I worked through an EGA General Correspondence Course on Goldwork a couple of years ago. It was a fun experience and very interesting to work with metal threads. I’d love to have a resource for future projects since I still have much to learn.
I’ve been working for over a year, on and off, on a massive embroidered waistcoat project which you can see on my website. Prior to this I had never done any goldwork. I’ve been picking it up as I go, but I would really benefit from any instruction I could get. The waistcoat is designed with a particular singer in mind, and I know I can rest assured that, no matter how splendid I am able to make it, it will never be good enough to distract from his voice.
Watching the progress of the medallion project has really made my fingers itch to try some serious goldwork. I am a rank beginner, having tried a little of it one time, but I’d like to do more.
Stitch jewellery for me is absolutely fascinating. And I seem to be inaccessible
Win a book of these could change my life 
And, of course, would make a kid (me!) happy:)
So. .. that the goddess of embroidery help me:)
I’m not even a beginner…just a wannabe. And a book like this might just push me over the edge!
ohhhhhhh…. I’d love to do this. I live close to the RSN at Hampton Court and am tempted to take a class in Goldwork there.
Oh you lucky girl I did a tour of the RSN last year and am pea green with envy that you are close enough to do courses.The bush in Australia is a bit far from everything Chris
I have not done any goldwork, but found a few spools of something or other in the clearance aisle and snatched them up, figuring I’ll figure out what to do with them eventually
I have no idea where to start though 
I have been drooling over your work for a while now, and would love to learn how to do goldwork
I’m a beginner, (only used gold thread to embellish Christmas stockings–the stars on trees)and because I love the work that I’ve seen in your column, I’m eager to learn. Thank you for the opportunity to get the book.
Oh I have not tried Goldwork but I WANT to! This would be so awesome to win! Thank you for your newsletter and all you do for us, including these wonderful contests!
I’m a beginner in goldwork (just now moving beyond looking at pictures). This book looks like a great resource.
I’ve been following your gold work medallion from my first visit to the site and would love to learn to do gold work. I have to say your site has inspired me to take up my needle and thread again!
I have been doing hand needlework since I was a young girl. The goldwork embroidery looks like something our business could add to the bags we use to deliver very special items. Thank you for the embellishment idea – it takes something very special like this to stand out in the crowd.
Not entering into the competition but just wanted to say what a marvelous book this is. I have had it for a few years and enjoy it thoroughly. Ms. Chamberlin has done a marvelous job with the goldwork embroidery.
If you don’t win but enjoy goldwork, it is definitely one to purchase yourself.
Hi, I’m Carrie and have never done goldwork. But I LOVE working with my hands. I do some basic embroidery, cross stitch, tatting, hand sewing, but mostly crochet. I’d love to have a place to start with goldwork, since I think my skills are pretty good, but I don’t have the creativity to design a new project. Thanks!
Oh Mary How I NEED This Book ! ! Being continually and increasingly addicted to Stumpwork I save my pennies to buy the gold threads. I love the look. So regal and eye-catching. I drooled over this last ecclesiastical rose ! But my efforts with gold all come out clumpy and lumpy and irregular. My finished threads gold looks like a snake having a seizure ! HELP ! …Judy in PIttsburgh
Nice book and a wonderful review. I have never tried goldwork earlier. but will be glad to learn this type of embridery
thank you
I’ve only admired goldwork from afar but your medallion project inspires me to at least attempt it at some point. I’ve only recently discovered your blog and I love it! Thanks for all the amazing and free information! And now a book giveaway!
I would love love love this book. I’ve watched your work Mary and I’m totally blown away with it. I was recently at an exhibition and saw the most amazing goldwork, many from a book you reviewed. Free standing beetles and caterpilar, etc. I would love to try goldwork but am completely in awe of it and just don’t know where to start. This really would be a fabulous and essential addition to my library
Kindest regards
Shona
I love goldwork and I am trying really hard to learn to do ecclesiastical embroidery. The best way for me to learn is through books (and your blog!). I would love this book!!
What a beautiful book! I love the chance to win it! I would definitely be considered beginner- I’ve worked with a thin gold Kreinik thread and gold thread from DMC, but never the qualities you’ve discussed and used. My favorite thing about goldwork is the metallic shine it gives. It really enhances other colors in the embroidery and adds a great textured effect.
I have done many many crafts but I have never tried goldwork. I am in the Cabinet of Curiosities class and I would like to know how to do goldwork.
Oh, I really hope I’m the lucky one. I just started working with gold pearl purl for the first time, and I love it. I’m determined to do more, so this would be the perfect addition to my library.
WOW! What a wonderful book that looks to be. I have had no relationship with goldwork until i stumbled across your site, Mary. Had actually never even heard of it. I had not done any hand embroidery other than counted cross stitch in close to 40 years. i became so enthralled with the depth of your knowledge and skill, not to mention the extreme beauty of goldwork, that your site is the first one i log onto each day. i have done a plebeian copy of the tudor style rose using DMC and Kreiniks, that i really want to do one with the real stuff and would be thrilled to have a copy of this book to drool and plan over. thanks for all the knowledge you give us.
shary in cincinnati
Hi Mary,
I have dipped one toe very slightly into the waters of goldwork, having added some Japan thread to two small projects. It was fun, and the end results were lovely. It’s definitely a technique I want to learn more about.
Thank you for doing such wonderful giveaways.
Best,
Rene
I am fascinated with goldwork but am a little afraid to try it for fear of making a complete mess of it!
I do some goldwork for priestly vestments. I also help others who want to learn about all the different aspects of vestment making. I have someone working with me now that would just LOVE this book. If I am the winner of this giveaway, it will make two of us very happy and grateful!
Mary,
Oh my goodness, what an absolutely gorgeous book! Would love to have this. I am new to goldwork having done only a small amount on a sampler. Needless to say, it was intimidating. I think the instructions in this book are very clear & would help me get over my fear of gold! Thanks.
Sheila from CA
Please disregard this one if you received my first one. It went away and I do not have a clue where. Anyhow one of my greatest desires is to learn goldwork. I have finished long and short with T. Berg and would love to learn goldwork. Embelishments to one’s work is what makes it all so special. Thanks for this opportunity.
Jane
Georgia Gal
Hi Mary,
I’m from Romania, a beautiful country of Europe, with certain tradition in embroidery. I’m a beginner, probably I’ll never do goldwork as I hardly can do projects for children. I did not write this message in order to win because this is too much for me. I just want to let you know that I enjoy very, very much what is written and shown here.You’re a such a nice person, a source of inspiration for everybody. Thank you for sharing your art with us.
Oh, what a lovely give-away! This is a must have for me. I love working with silk threads but have been afraid to try goldwork. As a relatively “new” stitcher I am always on the look-out for great instructional materials.
Thank you for such a great site with soooo much inspiration.
Hi, I just came home from OKC where we were packing my 90 & 92 year old in laws to move to Colorado so they can be closer to us…while there I got t look through old needle work of her moms & great grandmothers! Very old hand work that was just beautiful using gold work & silk embroidery! I learned to embroider from her Mom our grand mother! We didn’t get to learning goldwork or silk but I have loved the art of embroidery since then. I have started embroidery & silk ribbon embroidery just recently (I have severe arthritis in my hands) but love gold work I would be a beginner it is so wonderful sitting & creating something beautiful I would be considered a beginner. The book is so beautiful and would give me the opportunity to really learn how to do something beautiful to hand down to our daughter! It is a wonderful give away & I would love to have this book available to use to get started in a craft I would love to learn! I love reading your articles & it would be so great to win this give away & do this beautiful project & learn all the correct methods that are in this book! Thank you so much for such a wonderful chance! Best wishes on a wonderful year…looking forward to reading your articles each time they come out!!! Happy stitching Donna from Highlands Ranch Colorado!!!
I have never tried goldwork before but your beautiful medallion project and the pretty pictures in this book sure do make me want to try!
Hi Mary,
I have taken one class on Gold Work. I was so fascinated by the elegance of it that I went ahead and purchased various types of Gold threads, but never had the courage of working with them. This book would free me from my inhibition and apprehension of doing gold work. Needles to say that your Gold Thread Medallion was Super. What an inspiration.
Thanks for your generosity.
Esther B
Good Morning Mary,
Gold work is soooo important in ecclesiastical emboridery that one must master this to make a complete piece for the church. This is a must for sure. Thank you.
WOW!! What a great book this would be. I am deffinatly a beginner in gold work and this book Im think would be of so much help, especially at 2 AM when everyone is sleeping
I am so intriqued by the illustrations in this book. As a teacher of traditional Japanese Embroidery I have done a fair share of goldwork techniques and this book could give me a foundation for comparing the two – J.E. and English style. I will be starting a new project this year called Cabinet of Curiosities, along the style of 17th C. boxes covered with embroidery. A daunting project but one I am anxious to get on with and this book would be a good starting point. Thanks for the opportunity to add this book to my collection. Shirley
Hi, love your site!
I have never done gold work but my mom passed away in Jan. and she had an unfinished picture with gold work that I would love to finish! I do Brazilian embroidery and am trying to learn Hardanger embroidery to finish some of my mom’s Hardanger also. My mom did beautiful embroidery since she was a little girl but unfortunately she didn’t get it all done!
Oh – how I would love this book. I am a beginner to goldwork having only stitched a couple of things, I usually do thread painting. I have seen this book for sale on-line and drooled over it, the picture on the front cover is fabulous. Please, please let me be the winner.
I have looked on and marveled during your beautiful Medallion project and followed every step. I’ve been in awe, having never tried goldwork. What a lovely give-away for some beginner who, like myself, has never dared to try such a beautiful project. My fingers are crossed!
I’ve been following you and your beautiful stitching for some time. I’ve never done goldwork but would love to learn how to make some gorgeous pieces. This book would be perfect for a beginner who wants to progress to an advanced goldwork stitcher.
Jan
I’m an absolute beginner – I guess I haven’t tried it because it just looks so daunting! I think with a wonderful book like this though, I surely couldn’t go wrong!
I would love to win this book. I have tried goldwork when taking Tanja Berlin’s Shining Needle Society class featuring her Love Birds design. I really struggled with the goldwork. Had to do it twice. Would have redone it a third time but I didn’t want to stress the fabric any further.
Thank you, Mary, for your posts and all that you have taught me!
Ooooh – this is a beauty! I’m an absolute novice with regard to goldwork, but it’s an art that I’d very much love to try. I enjoy stumpwork, and I believe it would be a lovely complement.
I have never worked with Gold, but would absolutely love to! Thank you so much for your generosity, and encouragement in all things embroidery.
I enjoy needlework. I have not had a desire to try Goldwork until I read your review of the book. Now, I am looking for supplies to stitch a design.
I am new to your webgsite and I know I will enjoy your daily emails.
I love the look of goldwork and silk embroidery and would love to have this book to learn more about it.I watched your last project from the beginning and really want to try it.
I was so impressed by your chasuble design and your use of gold threads. (and your patience when you needed to redo). I have never used gold thread and would be cautious without really great direction. This book would be a wonderful learning tool.
As to goldwork, I am a beginner, but an enthusiastic one. This book is lovely and fine and if Mary recommends it, then it is special.
Thank you for all of your wonderful help and advice,
Shelia in Oklahoma
Definitely a beginner in goldwork, but your posts on the medallion have inspired me to study more and see what I can do! Thanks so much!
Dear Mary, What a lovely thought to give us a chance at this great book. I have done a little goldwork (see pic link of my Bayeux tapisserie above, if it works)but that is my one and only piece. Although I think I have learned so much from your posts, I could use basic references and re-immerse myself into embroidery and particularly gold work. I hope to finish the Buffalo Hunt(also on pic) which I abandoned many years ago with my renewed enthusiam which you have provided
It has been almost 25 years since I was first introduced to Goldwork. I created a few pieces but my interest went else where. No good references were available then and my notes are a bit sketchy. I am excited to pick up the threads again with new inspirational examples.
Mary, your work is just stunning and I applaud your desire to encourage and educate us with your love of needlework. Thanks!
When it comes to goldwork, I’m still a beginner. Having gotten over the initial fear of using the threads, and completing one piece, I’m hooked. The little threads were so unruly at first, but as the project progressed, we developed and understanding. It took many looks back at the archives here, and in the one or two goldwork books I have before things started to click.
Having a copy of Ruth Chamberline’s Beginner’s Guide to Goldwork would provide that additional foundation of knowledge so necessary to a new skill.
Ooooooooh!That’s soo pretty.
I have never tried it, primarily because most of the goldwork I’ve seen over the years by other people looked gaudy and gilded like a cheap Elvis frame. It ought to be gorgeous, right?!
And I think it can be, if you do it right.
What a great book. I have never done goldwork, but always enjoy a new stitch, a new technique and a good book. When I was a child, I found an embroidery hoop and unfinished embroidery pillow case with threads at the goodwill. I’ve been hooked on sewing and quilting, and felted wool projects and would always like to expand to something new. Thanks. ADM
Hi Mary, This book looks great! I would be an absolute beginner in goldwork embroidery, but I would love to learn!! Everything I’ve seen done in goldwork is just gorgeous, not to mention your Medallion project that you just finished up!
Thank you! Cindy J.
What a lovely book this would be to learn more about goldwork. I have only just ventured a little, by couching gold thread, but it would encourage me to become a bit bolder and learn the techniques in the correct way.
Following the progress of the Medalion project has whetted my appetite.
As I read your post, I glanced up at my needlework bookshelf – and sure enough, there was my copy of ‘Beginner’s Guide to Goldwork’. So, while I don’t want to be part of the giveaway, I do want to chime in and tell anyone hesitant about signing up…If you’re interested in goldwork or just like gorgeous embroidery, GET THIS BOOK! It is chock full of terrific pix and clear instructions. And if you don’t win Mary’s contest; it’s listed on Amazon for a wee bit over $10.00 used and about $14.00 new…
I am hankering to add this book to my collection. I am also in the process of getting rid of my older, out dated books and will need to fill those spaces with something new. Watching your goldwork projects gives me a hankerin’ to try it and a book for beginners is just my speed.
Hi, I am a newcomer to your website. Even though I have not done any goldwork, I have enjoyed all of your emails outlining your progress with the medallion. Plus the recent information regarding needles is invaluable. The photographs help tremendously in detailing the steps you are describing. The opportunity to receive this beginner’s guide to goldwork is too good to pass up.
I took a three-hour class in gold work a few years ago and didn’t learn much, so absolute beginner. I do enjoy drooling over projects such as yours but have been too intimidated to try anything yet.
What a truly gorgeous book! I have been dying to learn how to do gold work as part of reproduction renaissance clothing. What a treat! I have been following your stitch play series, and the gold work series ardently, and would love the chance to learn more!
I am a retired grandmother who has always loved needlework. That is not the same as being good at it. It just means I love the whole idea of it and love looking at it. Recently I made a commitment to learn to embroider properly and well, starting at square one, by going step by step through Mary’s embroidery tutorials. Actually, my stepmother taught me simple embroidery when I was ten years old (five decades ago!). I recall sitting with a little wooden hoop, embroidering the outline of simple pre-stamped images, and enjoying it very much. So I do know a little bit, but only a very tiny bit. I have a few lovely stitchery books, and love to look at the pictures, wishing I could make those things myself. Am sharing these thoughts “just because,” since the book should go to someone advanced enough to make good use of it. That’s certainly not me at this point.
I just ordered the metal threads to follow along with your Tudor rose project. I have never done goldwork before and thought the Tudor rose was beautiful. The shine of the goldwork gives the embroidery a level of elegance that thread only can’t achieve. I would love to have this book because I have decided to make several Christmas gifts this year and believe the book would be inspiring and an excellent reference tool.
Did you hear the far-gathered collective, “Ah….. !” when you showed us the final photos of the Medallion? Thank you for all your inspiration.
I have grateful heart. Consider how fortunate we are to live in time when we can enjoy the fruits of the many stitchers and teachers who have preceded us. Furthermore, we live in a time when many of us can afford the time and supplies to indulge in our pursuit. Goldwork! Available to us mere mortals!
I have wanted to learn to do goldwork for a very long time. I even have some supplies that were given to me but I really need a book that starts at the very beginning and shows me step by step what to do.
OHHHH…a lovely book that would be a treasure to own. As I look at my needlework library, I realize that I do not have a book on goldwork!! I’m not sure how that happened (shame on me) but I will certainly endeavor to correct the situation.
I have been following your medallion stitching…what an impressive project that was and a true inspiration for all of us who share the love of needlework.
I will admit I shy away from projects with goldwork. Oh, I’ve tried it before, but I just couldn’t seem to get “the knack” of it. I have a feeling this book would be a very helpful tool that would allow me to correct that.
Mary, thanks for all of your wonderful newsletters. I look forward to reading them every day. Your give-aways are an added bonus!
OMG! I’ve got to get this book. It’s a beautiful book with nicely detailed photos. I’d love to win this book! Your blog is exceptional. I read it all the time and visit your site for even more inspiration.
I have been an avid embroiderer for more than 30 years. Goldwork is something I’ve just never tried…too scared, lol. I purchased a book on it many years ago, but it was way too advanced for a beginner like me. I still have the book and will one day tackle the little bird pictured in it…just need tons of practice in the meantime. After following your medallion project, I find myself wanting to learn this technique, more than ever. NOTHING captures the eye quite like gold does
Oh, joy! I’m happy to have a recommendation on a goldwork book for beginners, even if I don’t win the giveaway.
Yes, I would be a rank beginner. I love the historical aspect of goldwork. I’ve been fascinated by the many antique vestments, altar cloths, banners, and gloves incorporating goldwork that I have seen in my travels in the UK. There is something about metal threads that elevates beautiful embroidery into the realm of the sublime.
Fingers crossed!
Julie
Hi Mary! I am a beginner…haven’t done any gold work before, unless you count stitching with gold colored Krenik thread to make Christmas ornaments. However, I want to learn. I always admire the intricate work that you do!
Dear Mary, thank you for bringing to us such precious items!
I have done some simple eclesiatical goldworks, but I wouldn´t say I know that much… the more I discover new techniques and wonderful designs and artworks in goldwork embroidery, the little my knowledge and practice is! So, in some manner, I am a beginner! and a fan of all that means “embroidery”. Celestine
I have done goldwork for some time and just fell in love with the technique, the look and the beauty of this form of embroidery. Although I have done goldwork for a while I am by no means expert but might be considered intermediate. This book would add to my library of goldwork books.
All I know about goldwork I learned from you, Mary! It is very beautiful and I would savor the chance to try it one day. I love books about needlework of all kinds and would love to add this book to my collection.
Some years ago I did a class in goldwork at a weekend school. The design we worked also included my introduction to silk shading. I love the finished work, which I had framed but have not done any goldwork since…lack of confidence without a tutor? Having this book would be almost as good as having an on hand expert in the room.
I’ve done lots of other types of embroidery, but never any goldwork. Something to keep in mind for the future!
I’ve never worked with goldwork before — I would LOVE a book like this that can get me started!
Mary, I love the bling that goldwork gives to projects. Not that “I” have done any! I hope to do some but nervous about taking the first step. This book would give me the basics. I would love to win it.
I am a beginner to embroidery. I had never tried it until I found some in my aunt’s things we were packing up and no one wanted it. For me it is very relaxing and calming. I had never seen goldwork or knew anything about it before your site.
I am a beginner, but after seeing all your amazing steps in the medallion project, i can’t wait to try goldwork! It’s so… Shiny.
Oh my, what a wonderful book to give away. I would love to win this. Thank you!
I’ve only done beginner stuff in a few cross stitch pieces (Teresa Wentzler stuff). The real intense goldwork appeals immensely but I find it so intimidating!
Looks like a great book. I love texture in all my embroidery! And goldwork provides texture.
Heather M.
It would be simply amazing to win – I see how many lovely ladies have commented…..I would treasure the book and with all the goodies waiting to be used, I am ready to sew!
Thanks for the chance.
Goldwork is my favorite technique. I have stitched some beautiful pieces and now I would like to learn more advanced techniques. I love the sparkle of the gold work. Now O a, going to try some of the techniques I have learned from your medalion project.
Wow what a pretty book! I have never tried goldwork, but would love to give it a go!
Thanks for the lovely give away.
Rachel
I love sewing with silk, the way it shimmes in the light, goldwork feels so rich and extravagant, the two together give embroidery wings, the work sings to me and there is movement in the finished project.
Still a beginner and enjoying extending my skills with beautiful results.
Thank you Mary for he step by step,instructions and guidance to our latest project using silk and gold.
Helen
So far I don’t have a relation with goldwork, although I’d like to! Your work is very inspiring and I’d love to try my hand. This book would be a great help with that. Thank you for the giveaway!
I have never tried goldwork, but I would LOVE to get into it. That’s why I want the beginner’s guide! The cost of getting started (plus the other sewing projects calling me) is what has kept me out so far.
I bought a kit to start some goldwork and silk embroidery but I keep putting off starting it because of fear. I have been thinking about finding a book to help me get started. I use my books all the time even on techniques that I am familiar with. I would love to get this Beginners Guide to Goldwork. It sounds just like the push I need to get started. Diane
I am just climbing out of my “shy box” sharing my needle paintings and have a new shop on Etsy. I’ve always loved the richness of metal thread work but, haven’t tried it yet. The preciousness of threads has been too intimidating. I’m working on a mixed media embroidery now, and have been thinking about incorporating metal threads. This book would be a real blessing!
Thanks so much again, for sharing your wealth of knowledge with us.
I drool whenever I see such beautiful work. I haven’t done any goldwork yet, but would love to try it! This look like the perfect book to get me on the way.
I don’t reall think I am ready for gold work yet, but the book is beautiful, from what you’ve shown, and, if I don’t win it, I will probably buy it. Thank you for showing it.
I have couched gold cord onto various things, but I am a newcomer to actual goldwork–I would love to learn more! I play with period-look embroidery for a renaissance-recreation group and goldwork was popular then..I would then teach my friends the technique as well–once I have learned it myself!
I love learning new stitches. I do counted cross stitch on line and enjoy hand embroidery. I have never tried Goldwork and would love to. This just sounds like a good way to get started.
I am a beginner to Goldwork; love the opulent look and style of the materials used and hope that I could learn to do this type of needlework.
I read your blog everyday and loved watching the progress on the Gold Medallion! What a gorgeous work.
I admit, I’m still waiting for that little somethign that will push me over into trying goldwork. It’s beautiful, but it’s hard to find the time amongst all the other fiber activities. Still, this book would definitely be a heck of a push!
Hi Mary,
I have done a bit of goldwork and it’s on an unfinished project. I would love to have this book to help me finish it! I have done gold pearl purl and some couching with gold threads…
Thanks for this opportunity.
Jan B. in Florida
OHHHHH! I would love to have a go at Goldwork.
I am tempted to do a day course at the RSN at Hampton Court
It’s really funny how well timed this is. My partner (who’s more of a knitter/crocheter) found some faux-silver metal thread in her stash last night and offered it to me to play with.
I’m familiar with silk embroidery techniques, but I had never considered metal embroidery until I started following this blog — and realized just how pretty it can be!
And the tips about framing would be super useful, too. I’m kind of terrible at making finished work look tidy and professional.
Dear Mary,
I am a somewhat experienced embroiderer, and still had never seen Goldwork until a lucky accident left me stumbling over your website
)))) Your goldwork is enough to make me swoon, and I’d dearly love to try a bit (or more) of goldwork. Even with all your wonderful teaching and tips and advice, not to mention thorough lessons, I’ve found it too intimidating to get the supplies and thread that needle … and while I rarely stray far from the computer, a book by my side is really my reassurance, so if I’m lucky and this beatufiful book heads my way, I’d be delighted!
Regards, Cathy in PA
P.S. When are you going to write YOUR book ?
))
I’m a complete beginner at Goldwork but drool over the pictures I see of it. Having followed your Medallion project I would really like to give it a try.
Thanks
So many years ago, I picked up my first embroidery needle, and now, I hear it calling me back. I’ve admired goldwork, but never had the courage to dive in (or have known anyone who does goldwork), so have had to admire it from afar. I would love to try this out! I’ve been watching you stitch that beautiful medallion, and find it has really ignited my interest. Fingers crossed!
I love fiber arts and embellishing. Glitz perfectly placed brings shine to any project. What interests me with gold work embroidery is the royal aspect it brings out.
Oh, what a wonderful book and terrific giveaway. I would love to win it and to try my hand at goldwork mbroidery. Thanks for the opportunity.
This does look an easy book to follow. Twice I have purchased Golwork kits but each time when I look at the instructions and special threads I become daunted and put everything away until another day. ‘Another day’ will come some time I am sure. It will probably take something like this lovely book to get me over the fear hurdle. Thanks for reviewing it and for all the endless bits and pieces that we receive from you every day – what a gift that is without any of the give aways. By the way I have enrolled in two Introduction Classes at the RSN in September – thanks again for your link there. Rowena
I have never formally tried goldwork though I have done many different forms of embroidery over the years.The closest I came was working on the Plimoth Jacket, though I just worked with the silk threads on that.I would love to add the book to my library and try the sampler.
OOOH how lovely I love to try that.