I’ve shared an image of a Great Grey Heron that perched on top of the building next to us for an entire morning. It’s always wonderful to see these majestic birds!
But on to the Toned Down Sampler and the 3 1″-circles I’ve just completed. The first circle is grounded by the Pistil Stitch in metallic gold thread in the center and embellished with Bullion Loops which are anchored by Bullion Knots. Just 3 stiches — such a lovely combination. The designs have used very little of the metallic threads in my kit, so they really shine when they appear. I took liberties — again — with the outline stitch: I used a variegated rayon thread to apply Scroll Stitch I found in Judith Baker Montano’s book Elegant Stitches. I like the simplicity of the stitch, which really is elegant, and compliments the sparkle in the central design. Click on an image for a larger view.
The next circle is surrounded by backstitch. The central design features Detached Chain Stitch with Colonial Knots filling each chain. Woven Picot and Palestrina Knot create the top design. I really like the color combination here.
And now a lovely tree! This circle is surrounded by Chain Stitch. The trunk of the tree is Needle Weave Bar; Bullion Knot creates the roots. Simple Couching creates the branches with Detached Chain Stitch for leaves and Colonial Knots for the fruit. Delightful!
This makes 51 of 90 circles completed. I feel like I’m really getting the swing of this project and I am having fun making changes where I want to. It means digging into my other resources for stitch types and that’s fun! Onward! I hope you are having as much fun with your creative projects as I am having.
It is hard to believe that they keep getting more amazing! Great job, Franki.
They do, don’t they. And I keep learning too. There are sooo many different stitches. I’ve learned a lot from Sue Spargo and there are many other sources to draw from. I plan to continue to seek out new stitches to learn and use. Thanks for the kudos Denise!
This is just divine! It looks like a fun and relaxing project. Love the colors!
It is finally becoming the fun and relaxing project I envisioned. It took a steep learning curve for me. Yes, I grew up embroidering — but not like this! And there are tons more stitches to learn about. Thanks for stopping by.
You are on a roll! Nice work!
Thanks Gay! I’m having fun with this.
Seems a shame that these jewels are so small. They would be lovely decorating a wall or, at the very least, a greeting card. Good work. Carry on!
Thanks! I haven’t decided exactly what I’ll do with the sampler when I’m done, but framing it for the wall is an option on the table. I have plenty of time to decide on this.