ˈcrewel-work lit.
Work done with crewels or worsted yarns; applied to a species of embroidery which became fashionable about 1860, in which a design is worked in worsted on a background of linen or cloth.
| 1863 E. J. May Stronges of N. 13 In one of the windows by a small table, occupied in some crewel work, sat the venerable lady. 1885 E. Garrett At Any Cost xiv. 255 Bending over her crewel work. |