Embroidery Techniques from Around the World: Hedebo
January 16, 2026
Technique: Hedebo
Place of Origin: Denmark
Earliest known date: 1700s
History: Hedebo embroidery, also called Hedebo needlelace, originated among the peasant and farming communities of Denmark living in the Heden (from hede, or heath) regions between Copenhagen, Køge, and Roskilde.
Hedebo collar, Dorrit Gutterson, 1998, whitework worked on linen with ecru pearl cotton thread and with tatted edges. EGA’s Permanent Collection.
A popular form of Danish whitework embroidery, Hedebo was first practiced by peasant women in the Heden solely for personal use, stitching household linens and clothing. Then, in the mid-to-late 19th century, upper middle class Copenhagen families began taking interest in Hedebo embroidery. At this time, it became common for wealthy families to hire wet nurses from the Heden, who brought with them their Hedebo embroideries. The wives and mothers of wealthy families then began crafting Hedebo embroidery for use in their homes and wardrobes. By the 20th century, Hedebo’s popularity had spread across Denmark, promoted by organizations like the National Museum of Denmark and the Society for the Promotion of Hedebo Embroidery. In 1870, the Danish Folk Museum recognized Hedebo as a national treasure.
Dragværk by Laila Glienke – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, WikipediaMaterials: The farmers in the Heden grew, harvested, combed, and spun flax to create the white linen tabby cloth (or plain weave) and white linen thread feature in Hedebo.
Techniques and Stitches: Hedebo is a form of whitework embroidery, and similar to reticella. Hedebo uses 7 distinct techniques, which evolved over the course of Hedebo’s popularity in Denmark. Hedebo pieces would often feature multiple techniques as each new style was developed.
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Technique: Hedebo
Place of Origin: Denmark
Earliest known date: 1700s
History: Hedebo embroidery, also called Hedebo needlelace, originated among the peasant and farming communities of Denmark living in the Heden (from hede, or heath) regions between Copenhagen, Køge, and Roskilde.
