Textiles back in time: behind the scenes of Handmade Universe

The Library has a small but interesting collection of textiles, some of which are on display in Handmade Universe: from craft to code and the spaces between.

Visitors to the exhibition are able to view a very rare stitched silk map from the 18th century by Mary Redmond and 2 embroidered waistcoats which follow Berlin wool work patterns. Each item represents a different style of embroidery, and comparing the two styles can give an interesting insight into the changing tastes, skills and technologies involved in embroidery over centuries.

Watch the video above as Senior Curator Linda Short and Conservation Manager Jane Hinwood share the stories behind these fascinating items.

More to explore

• Explore how the exhibition embraces different approaches to astronomy
• Visit the Library to explore Handmade Universe in person
• Discover Handmade Universe online
• Read our interview with Curator Linda Short