A host of intricate patterns adorn the Alhambra Palace in Granada. Follow our tutorial to translate a striking Court Of Lion rosette design into a piece of dimensional goldwork

BY LOËTITIA GIBIER

The Alhambra Palace in Spain is a treasure trove of patterns. They are based on geometric and biomorphic patterns that can be drawn using a compass and a ruler. I’ve been learning these traditional patterns for over two years now and I am obsessed! This pattern is an adaptation of one of the Court of Lion rosettes and is based on a traditional 8-fold curvilinear knot pattern.

YOU WILL NEED MATERIALS

• Fabric: - Calico, 30 x 30cm - Background fabric: Moda Grunge, colour Bison (416), 30 x 30cm - Cork fabric with gold flecks, 8 x 11cm - Felt, Tan or Yellow (any colour would do), 10 x 12cm

• Threads: - Pearl purl 1mm, Dark gold (EM4), 6m - Gutermann Sew All: - 417, 1 reel - 215, 1 reel - 6-ply metallic twists similar to DMC Diamant Grande or a metallic stranded would work – I use one from my shop, EM161 Honey gold

• Needles: - Embroidery, size 10 - Chenille, size 22

The items above will be available to buy as a pack from www.korrylittleshop.co.uk. A pack with silver wire and a dark blue background is also offered as an alternative colourway (see page 57 to see example).

EQUIPMENT

• Tissue paper, 25 x 25cm (I used Golden thread quilting paper as it tears easily without leaving any whisps of paper)

• Freezer paper: - 8 x 11cm (for the cork shapes) - 10 x 12cm (for the felt padding)