Crewel embroidery, or crewel work, usually denotes a specific type of embroidery: flower and animal motifs worked in wool, with a variety of colors, shades, and textures, using a variety of associated stitches.

Embroidery that mimics crewel work but is worked in threads other than wool fits in the category of surface embroidery, but it’s crewel wool that makes crewel work what it is.

If you’re unfamiliar with crewel work, there’s an excellent little book on the market that will introduce you to this beautiful art. It’s the Beginner’s Guide to Crewel Embroidery by Jane Rainbow, and it’s published by Search Press as part of their Beginner’s Guide needlework series.