There are just two stitches used on Circle #9: The Cast On Bullion Knot and the Colonial Knot. The pattern calls for 8 rows of the Cast On Bullion Knot but I could only squeeze on 6 rows and even with fewer rows you cannot see a smidge of the wool circle beneath. I like this stitch a lot. It is easy to create, so quickly becomes calming to do.
The Crested Chain Stitch creates a perfect border for the 10th circle in the first row. And the tree design – using Closed Fly Stitch, Double Cast On Stitch and Colonial Knots – leaves plenty of that luscious Very Berry wool showing.
The next circle, #1 in the second row, is the first one to use all three sizes of the pearl cotton in the kit: #8, #5 and #3. The Pekinese Stitch and Bullion Knot on the outer edge are both stitched in #8; the first round of Colonial Knots are stitched in #3; the center Colonial Knots are stitched in #5. Very bold for this tiny scrap of wool.
And speaking of bold, the next circle starts with a Bullion Rose stitched in #5 pearl cotton surrounded by alternating Bullion Loop and Pistil Stitch. I was not at all convinced I was going to be able to get all that done and still see any part of the wool circle. The Crested Chain Stitch, worked in a matching color pearl cotton, makes the circle look larger than it is – a nice finish.
I continue to enjoy this project and I’m gaining confidence with the new stitches I’ve learned. I’m sure my comfort level will increase as I complete more of the circles.
I hope you are being challenged and comforted by whatever you’ve chosen to work on.
Stay tuned for the next installment on this project! Until next time….
Be strong. Be patient. Be kind.
Yes, being challenged is refreshing!
Amazing and beautiful. I will not start another project. But enjoy seeing yours.
Thanks Vivian. I’ll be watching for what you’re up to, too!
These are lovely!
Thanks Toni!
Love these! it’s too hard to pick a favorite.
LOL — and it will only get more difficult as I continue stitching! Stay tuned.
I’m just starting the Toned Down sampler now, and I believe there’s a mistake in circle #9. The instructions says bullion knot, but the picture clearly shows cast on bullion. If you zoom in on the actual sampler, it’s the bullion knot. And that’s why you couldn’t fit all the circles, the cast on takes more room. They all fit with the bullion knot.
Hi again, I agree about the cast on bullion stitch, it’s new to me too and I love it! So much potential. I also agree that the Toned Down sampler instructions are sparse. But I love the challenge. I’ve read all your comments as you workwd through the circles and have found them helpful. I also love your work! You have inspired me to try some leaf experiments.