New (old) Hardanger pattern

Some years ago – about five, actually – I taught a class where the project was a traditional-style Hardanger runner. I’ve had a photo of it on the Hardanger page of my website for many years, but I’ve never actually made the pattern widely available.

From time to time I receive emails from people asking “Where can I get that pattern?” I received another one overnight. So this morning, I’ve finally gotten around to uploading the pattern information to my website so that it is available to everyone.

The pattern is called Anniken, and it is named after a Norwegian penpal I had when I was at school. We lost touch many years ago and I sometimes wonder where she is and what she is doing now. I hope she is happy!

Anyway, back to the pattern!

This beautiful Hardanger whitework runner is based on traditional-style Hardanger designs. Traditionally, Hardangersøm (or embroidery from Hardanger) was worked in white thread on white linen. It was worked in long bands, and did not use the buttonhole edge that is so frequently seen on contemporary Hardanger.

The stitches used in this project are traditional Hardanger stitches. Drawn thread bands were often used along the edges of Hardanger, and eyelet clusters were also common. The other stitches (satin stitch, four-sided stitch, needleweaving and cable stitch) remain common in contemporary Hardanger embroidery.

Anniken Hardanger runner pattern is available for purchase through the Vetty Creations website.