The Collaborative International Dictionary
Blackwork \Black"work`\, n.
Work wrought by blacksmiths; -- so called in distinction from
that wrought by whitesmiths.
--Knight.
Wiktionary
n. (context sewing English) A form of counted-thread embroidery that is usually stitched on even-weave fabric with a twisted thread
Wikipedia
Blackwork, sometimes historically termed Spanish blackwork, is a form of embroidery generally using black thread, although other colors are also used on occasion. Sometimes it is counted-thread embroidery which is usually stitched on even-weave fabric. Any black thread can be used, but firmly twisted threads give a better look than embroidery floss. Traditionally blackwork is stitched in silk thread on white or off-white linen or cotton fabric. Sometimes metallic threads or coloured threads are used for accents.
Scarletwork is like blackwork, except it is sewn with red thread.
Usage examples of "blackwork".
The indefinite blackwork filigree of moonshine and shadow shifted and blurred on his bare body and gleamed dully from the sword he held before him.
On a folding screen of blackwork embroidery, an arrow points one way, and I turn the other.
World Bank and getting really cool Maori blackwork tattooed across your face.
Jeannie did her hair and helped her into a gown of midnight-blue velvet, adorned with a tableau of blackwork embroidery that began at the waist and curled up over her bodice and down over her high-waisted gown.
The man sitting opposite her had a face that was covered with blackwork tattoo eels.
In my blackwork bodice, white quilted petticoats, veil, and glazed kid gloves, I would descend upon him like an avenging angel.
It was printed over one broad, high cheekbone with a blackwork tattoo fine as engraving, an abstract patterned curl.