Cecilia's Countess Pillowe Kit

Cecilia's Countess Pillowe Kit

by Phillipa Turnbull

Phillipa’s Countess Pillowe design takes inspiration from a set of magnificent crewel work bed hangings designed and embroidered by Cecilia, Countess of Strathmore and Kinghorne (1862–1938) grandmother of Queen Elizabeth II.

This design features the Scottish thistle and the English rose, each bordered by graceful lattice columns. This design is perfect for stitchers who are ready to extend their skills, and offers an impressive design which is possible to complete in a relatively short time.

Intermediate

Tracked Shipping

Secure delivery, flat rate postage

Money Back Guarantee

30 day guarantee on all kit orders

Exceptional Quality

Sustainably sourced materials supporting traditional crafts

Kit Includes

The materials in this kit have been sourced sustainably from suppliers we know and trust, and with whom Phillipa has built relationships over decades. Our linen twill is woven in Britain, to our precise historic specifications, by one of the few remaining mills in the country. Our wool is supplied by Appletons Wools, a thriving British family business we are proud to recommend as the maker of the finest quality crewel wools. Through the creation of our kits, we are proud to support and represent British artisan manufacturers, and every element has been carefully considered for its quality and longevity.

  • Pure Linen Twill with printed outline
  • Appletons Wool Skeins
  • 4 Needles (for double and single thread)
  • A3 Stitch Chart
  • Stitch Instructions
  • A3 Colour Poster
  • Post Cards of the Design
  • Our 'Essential Guide to Crewel Work' booklet

Supporting the Glamis Castle Textile Collection

Each purchase of this kit provides much-needed income to conserve historic embroideries at Glamis Castle, in Angus Scotland.

View the Collection
About the Design

Glamis Countess Pillowe

Step into the regal world of Glamis Castle with this one-day intermediate crewel work class led by Phillipa Turnbull, featuring the Countess Pillow design. Drawing on the historic bed hangings from the Queen Mother’s bedroom, which were recreated by Phillipa in 2001 to celebrate the Queen Mother’s 100th birthday - this project is rich in heritage and artistry.

The Countess Pillow showcases a Regency-style lattice adorned with the Scottish thistle and English rose, symbolising the union of the English and Scottish crown. Designed for intermediate stitchers, the class offers an opportunity to refine your crewel work skills while exploring more intricate stitches and techniques.

Phillipa will guide you through the process, sharing stories of Glamis Castle and the original bed hanging commission that inspired this piece. By the end, you will have a sophisticated, and substantial embroidery that captures both the elegance of the Regency era and the Royal legacy of Glamis Castle.

Meet Your Tutor

Phillipa Turnbull

United Kingdom

The founder of The Crewel Work Company, Phillipa has over 30 years of experience as an embroidery tutor. Phillipa's style of teaching is fun and relaxed and packed with Crewel Work tips and tricks to get you feeling confident with your needle.

Kit Details

What size is the design?

Design: 38 cm (14.96 in) H × 53 cm (20.87 in) W
Fabric: 58 × 73 cm (22.83 × 28.74 in)

What stitches are featured in the design?

Long & Short Stitch, French Knots, Pistil Stitch

What else will I need?

An 8 or 10 inch embroidery hoop with paddle or barrel clamp base. You can purchase a frame here.

Which frame should I use

We recommend using a Hands Free Seat Frame with a paddle base or table clamp.

Alternatively you may prefer to use a 'Slate Frame' or other frame of your choice. You will also need a pair of scissors and a thimble if you use one.

How we give back

We care deeply about keeping the embroidery alive for future generations, and about supporting the talented artisans, collection owners, and arts professionals who help preserve this heritage.

5% of the sale of this kit goes directly to supporting the Glamis Castle Textile Collection.

These contributions are protected for the specific care and conservation of the embroideries in the collection and for helping to train the people dedicated to their preservation.

Delivery, Returns and Duties

We ship all orders using tracked services to ensure your order arrives safely.

UK orders
£4.95 flat rate shipping
Sent via Royal Mail Tracked 24

International orders
£12.95 flat rate shipping
Orders are shipped with either Royal Mail International Tracked, Parcelforce, or DPD.
All duties and import taxes are included in the price.
Local ‘State’ level sales tax is not included and may be due on delivery

What this means for you
The shipping price you see at checkout is the total you pay for delivery - including tracking, handling, and any applicable duties or import taxes for your country.
We’ve chosen this approach so your order arrives smoothly, without unexpected customs charges or delays.

Questions?
If you have any questions about shipping or delivery, please get in touch at admin@crewelwork.com.