I am happy to be sharing four new 1-inch circles with you. Three of them are keepers for me — one has the jury out just now. Click on images for a larger view.
This particular design had me flummoxed when I first read through the directions. So much so that I skipped over it and went on to several other circles before coming back to it. When I recently read through the instructions again I thought ‘Why was I so put off on this one?’. Now it seemed perfectly clear and I jumped in on it.
The stitch surrounding this circle is actually two stitches to create the Ladder Herringbone stitch. First, two rows of back stitch are worked (yellow thread) and then the Herringbone stitch connects the two rows of backstitch. The center is anchored by Pistil Stitch which hugs Bullion Knots.
Here is another design that simply charms me. It is so cheerful with its beautiful flower face and outstretched arms.
This circle is surrounded by Chain Stitch. The flower face is Woven Circle topped by Cast on Bullion Knot. The stem is constructed with Palestrina Knot. The leaf on the left is constructed with Uneven Fly Stitch; the right stem contains buds of Colonial Knot. I hope it brings a smile to your face!
Another milestone here: I am beginning the 7th row!
When I started this circle, I was quite enthusiastic about it. I like the Scroll Stitch surrounding the circle. That stitch is repeated twice more, with Colonial Knot stitch between. The center is constructed with Beaded Drizzle Stitch. Frankly, I think the center overpowers the overall design and it flops for me — the Drizzle Stitch, though kept short, still covers more than half of the inside of the circle (remember, this is only 1″ across) and the beads are out of proportion to my eye. I will live with this design for a while and decided whether or not to redo it in some way, whether slightly or completely.
And then there is this incredible crab! I hope that he is not caught and tossed into boiling water this summer.
The outer circle is surrounded by Chain Stitch. The body of the crab is constructed with a nice filler, the Trellis Stitch. Legs and claws are constructed with Bullion Knot. The antennae and eyes are created with Straight Stitch and Bullion Knot. Colonial Knots create the design on the back of the crab.
I am now 28 circles from being done with this sampler. At this point it feels realistic to consider a completion time — I’m thinking by the end of the year. That would leave the “What next to do with it?” question for 2025. With the way the calendar flies, it’s not too early to practice saying and writing that.
If you are new here and would like to read more about this sampler by Sue Spargo, please click on the category “Hand Stitching” in the right-hand column.
I hope you’re enjoying your summer projects!
The beads are, as you said, out of proportion, but I wonder if you removed the one at 3 o’clock if the result would be more pleasing. It is the one that catches my eye and makes me ‘see’ how big it is. Maybe you could just break that bead before going to the effort of unstitching the whole design.
The crab, I think, is a female. The knobs on her back are eggs! I think they are usually on the underside but who’s to say that this crab isn’t on its back? https://lh3.ggpht.com/Al4ExBiwIY159-n1unmn4_oO7ntoo7WxTTQvkmRfEXjTxHPwTvY_nTnfrP0v2GvijdweNeo4Y6SWigawuGc=s600
You know I don’t mind ripping out. The goal is always being happy with the final product. Thanks for the ideas to ponder. And the crab comments.
As always, your work is eye-catching. I am a fan of the crab! Keep up the good work!
Thanks Gay! The crab is fun!
Beautifful work! The crab is different and delightful!
Thanks Denise! I really like the little crab — so dainty.
Your work is enchanting.
Thank you Irene! And thanks for stopping by. I hope to see you here again.