An openwork technique in which fabric threads are not cut. The lace like effect is created by pulling or bundling together embroidery stitches.

 from needlework ideas
 No. 3281/601
 Cashel Ajour 

 
Simple decorative stitches become pulled-thread stitches by pulling the embroidery thread tautly. Always do pulled thread embroidery in embroidery hoops or frames so you can pull the stitches together evenly.

Fabric types:
For best results use loosely woven, pure linen fabrics. The smooth flax threads are easily pulled together and the elegant material enhances the lacy character of this embroidery.

Recommended fabrics:
3340 CORK is with 8 threads/cm a relatively coarse fabric, but when decorated with pulled thread embroidery even this linen fabric appears elegant and fine. Use this fabric for your first pulled-thread project, as it is ideal for practising on.
3604 DUBLIN, is a classic sieve linen with a thread count of 10 per cm that is traditionally used for pulled thread embroidery, the openwork patterns being particularly effective on this fabric. 3281 CASHEL is a pure linen fabric with 11 threads/cm. Although a bit finer, it is still very easy to count.

Linen tablecloth fabrics are also very suitable for pulled thread embroidery. Woven-in stripes or checks facilitate embroidery placement.

Embroidery thread:
Pearl cotton or 4-ply embroidery yarn in the same weight as the fabric threads or just a bit finer to better accentuate the lacy, openwork pattern. In Germany, pulled-thread embroidery was traditionally worked on white linen, or tone-on-tone in pastel shades. In Southern and Eastern Europe, however, there are numerous examples using bright, contrasting colours.