One of Sweden's most recognized provinces is Dalarna, long famous for the decorative red and blue Dala horses. Another, less well-known folk art also comes from this area – the needlework technique called Sollerosom (using the stitch called Soleron.)

During the 1600's and 1700's, Sollerosom was seen on aprons that were an integral part of the folk costume from this region. The aprons were decorated with a variety of colors to be used for special occasions as well as different days of the week. Many local customs were dictated largely by the church and specified what colors could be used, by whom, where and when. Everyone attended church in the local costume, which varied according to the church season, the church ceremony, and the time of year. For example, blue was to be worn on Sunday, red for formal occasions, and violet (blue and red worked together) during the Lenten season. Unmarried women were prohibited from wearing any decoration, thus embroidery seen on a woman's garment indicated that she was married.

One of the interesting uses for traditional Swedish textiles was to have them displayed as wall coverings and ceiling dress during festive occasions (especially Christmas.) The textiles would be placed in the narrow area between the rafters, where they hung from the ridgepole to the wall. At that point, additional hangings would cover the wall to the point where the fringed ends would just touch the benches along the wall.

Although many of these textiles were woven, it is likely that Sollerosom could also have been found among these hangings for a number of reasons. First, the technique would have made use of the coarser cloth produced from poorer quality flax (which wouldn't be noticeable from a great distance.) Secondly, the design would mimic the coverage of the densely woven textiles, while at the same time saving precious thread on reverse. In addition, because the net of stitches can cover a large distance quickly, not a great amount of time was spent in producing the design. Finally, because the technique is stitched from the face only, the textile could have been worked as it was hanging in place.

This technique is one that is relatively simple to master and works up quickly, with an economical use of thread. In all of these characteristics, it reflects the common thread of many of the folk-arts - the desire to create beauty in the simple things of life.

In the December 2003 EGA Needle Arts magazine, a single band of Sollerosom was included as a part of the "2003 Needle Arts Sampler."

Purchase complete instructions for this technique:
Techniques of Swedish Sollerosom

Purchase design instructions for project using this technique:
Pin and Needle Box, Inspired by Swedish Sollerosom

View: Free Sollerosom chart