Happy #smallstitchingsunday

Sometimes simple and small is the best way to go. Today’s #stitchingsunday is a shout-out to some of my favorite small stitches.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

 
Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

By the end of the day lately, I’m tapped out. Several of my works-in-progress are large, exquisite, and honestly, too much at the moment. I turned to a small canvas I had in my stash to get me through this week. (Also, loving Perry Mason and the Watchmen on HBO. Not necessarily perfect stitch TV*, but easy stitches make it easier to do both at the same time.)

The canvas is an adorable eyeglass case (on 13M) I picked up a few months ago. The letters are stitched in Cross Stitches, a trick I picked up from a fellow needlepoint junkie, with silver Fyre Werks. The advantage of a Cross Stitch, instead of a French Knot, Tent Stitch, or bead is that a Cross Stitch covers all four sides of an intersection, making the lines created by the stitches (in any direction) smooth and uninterrupted.

The background is nothing more than what I call Plain Needlepoint, but more commonly known as Basketweave, in Vineyard Silk and Pepper Pot Silk. I considered and discarded cuter and more complex stitches because I wanted the attention to go to the letters and the glasses. In addition, I didn’t want to do that much compensating around the same letters and glasses.

And, last but not least, the lenses are covered in Reverse Basketweave with a size 8 Kreinik Metallic to ensure the canvas shows through, as it would do through glasses.

These stitch diagrams, along with all other #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams, can also be found on a Pinterest board here.

Be sure to follow whimsicalstitch.com on FacebookPinterestInstagram, and Twitter.

If you like what you see on this blog, want to learn some very creative decorative stitches, and how to put them all together, whimsicalstitch.com has a book for you! Mary’s Whimsical Stitches is a contemporary how-to collection of more than 250 stitches for stitchers regardless of skill level. The book includes updated and sequenced diagrams from this blog, all-new stitches, and a chapter on the basics of needlepoint. For more information, visit here. Retailers carrying the book can be found here.

whimsicalstitch.com also sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca DesignsSandra Gilmore, Purple Palm, Maggie, and Penny MacLeod, and many more. Click here to see the newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

There’s a time and place for everything and sometimes it needs to be simple. I anticipate I will finish this tonight while I watch the Perry Mason finale. I’m confident you have the perfect spots for any of these stitches. Happy #stitchingsunday!

*Stitch TV = any programming that you can watch and comprehend while stitching. I prefer it to not be completely vacuous; I’m also not a fan of overly harsh reality TV. My favorite Stitch TV includes binging on old series I already know and love (Justified, I’m looking at you), easy comedies (Parks & Rec, anyone?), Great British Bake Off (who doesn’t love an English accent with their sweets?), and sports (or what is passing as sports TV these days).

A Note about Diagrams
I use color in diagrams to make them as clear as possible. The primary function of different colored lines is to illustrate a stitch sequence. For example, layering of colors demonstrates you add them in that order. They can also provide ideas on how to integrate additional threads (one line for each color). Or, you can use the same thread for all color lines. That's where I encourage you to use your imagination for the space you are stitching!

Or What?

Or Nue is an exquisite goldwork embroidery technique that translates perfectly to needlepoint. Today’s post focuses on very simple Or Nue with standard needlepoint threads. Two examples are provided, illustrating a solid color and a pattern.

Very simply put, Or Nue combines pairs of threads on canvas with one thread covering the second thread. It’s similar to couching. However, I consider couching as a method to tack down a piece of thread on top of the canvas at strategic points to keep a shape, say attaching a piece of cording as a tendril. My version* of Or Nue covers the entirety of one of the threads in the pair with the second, creating beautiful ridges. * I use the expression “my version” because Or Nue is a elaborate technique in embroidery using silver-gilt (gold) threads, e.g. Japan Gold. A very simplified version of it is being shared here.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

The first example above illustrates a solid color Or Nue. I numbered two separate threads in a single sequence to illustrate how to navigate the multiple threads. It’s important to complete an entire row with both threads before you proceed to the next row.

To begin, add your base thread from edge to edge on a single row (black line, step 1-2). The base thread rests in the ditch between two canvas threads. Park the first thread on the side and bring your second needle up from the hole under the first thread and return the needle in the hole immediately above, gently pulling the base thread on top of the canvas thread above. Repeat this step across the row. When you get to the end with the second thread, park it to the side and return to your first thread. Add your next base thread from edge to edge and cover with the second thread. (The numbering may appear odd but remember you are picking up your work from where you last left the thread.)

The stitched sample uses size 16 Kreinik for the base threads (black lines) and Flair for every other row of the covering stitches (gray lines) and the same size 16 Kreinik for the remaining rows of the covering stitches (gray lines).

The next example illustrates how to create a pattern. The diagram below is virtually identical, except for the numbering for the threads on top of the base threads.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

The diagram certainly does not portray the stitched sample on the right BUT represents the numbering strategy. Simply put, when using more than one color for the top threads in a row, add each color one at a time. I like to add the color with the smallest representation first and end with the color with the most real estate. For example, in the stitched sample, I added the silver first in any row that needed it and then filled in the cream threads.

Let’s talk about threads because one thread choice really matters. Earlier, I mentioned how Or Nue creates small ridges. The base thread is what makes that work. The base thread needs to be a roundish shaped thread that holds its shape. An ideal matte thread is Very Velvet, Petite Very Velvet, a large size Perle Cotton (#3 or #5), or single strand silk. Good metallic threads include Kreinik Metallics (size 12 or 16) or Silk Lame (18 or 13). You can cover those with virtually any other thread, including silk or cotton floss. I’ve used matte threads covered with matte, metallics covered with metallics, metallics covered with matte, and matte covered with metallics. Personally, I prefer it when a tiny bit of the base thread shows through so, as an example, when I’m using silk floss over a metallic thread, I keep the floss ply count low. It’s the best of both worlds and I love the tiniest bit of sparkle that emerges.

Or Nue looks so much more difficult than it is. It’s a beautiful technique for rugs, bags, hats, purses, baskets…anything requiring a subtle texture and/or an elegant touch.

These stitch diagrams, along with all other #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams, can also be found on a Pinterest board here.

Be sure to follow whimsicalstitch.com on FacebookPinterestInstagram, and Twitter.

If you like what you see on this blog, want to learn some very creative decorative stitches, and how to put them all together, whimsicalstitch.com has a book for you! Mary’s Whimsical Stitches is a contemporary how-to collection of more than 250 stitches for stitchers regardless of skill level. The book includes updated and sequenced diagrams from this blog, all-new stitches, and a chapter on the basics of needlepoint. For more information, visit here.

whimsicalstitch.com also sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca DesignsSandra Gilmore, Purple Palm, Maggie, and Penny MacLeod, and many more. Click here to see the newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch! Please enjoy! Have a wonderful #whimsicalwednesday!

A Note about Diagrams
I use color in diagrams to make them as clear as possible.  The primary function of different colored lines is to illustrate a stitch sequence.  For example, layering of colors demonstrates you add them in that order.  They can also provide ideas on how to integrate additional threads (one line for each color).  Or, you can use the same thread for all color lines.  That's where I encourage you to use your imagination for the space you are stitching!

Which Came First?

I’m often asked what comes first for a blog post…the stitch or the stitched sample? In all honesty, it’s both. Some weeks I am inspired by new stitches I’ve used for class projects and get to share student’s wonderful stitching. Other weeks I am walking around my house on Tuesday afternoon desperately looking for something I haven’t shared with you. Today and last week were definitely Tuesday afternoon scenarios.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

There is a LOT to unpack in today’s stitch. I stitched these pillows in the early 2000’s and I was all about dramatic composite stitches. In fact, the more dramatic, the better. In my opinion, it works here because there is so much real estate to cover. The pillow, which you can see in its entirety on today’s Instagram post, includes basketweave leaves and a low key background to balance the dramatic stitches and threads on each of the fruit. Just like your diet, needlepoint needs to have balance. And, just like your diet, I’m all about fruit in needlepoint.

The stitched sample is a retired fruit pillow from Melissa Shirley Designs and uses DMC Perle Cotton (black lines), Very Velvet (aqua lines), Very Velvet (aqua lines), and a whole lotta red size 12 Kreinik (yellow lines). I recommend stitching the black liems first, folllowed by the yellow, and wrapping up with the aqua lines.

This stitch would make a beautiful fabric of any kind, say a dress with silk floss (black lines), a lightweight metallic such as Kreinik Metallics Fine Braid (#8) or Petite Silk Lame (yellow lines), and Flair (aqua lines). Extending the fabric theme, how about a pillow with Vineyard Silk (black lines), Silk Lame (yellow lines), and size 12 Kreinik (aqua lines). I may go so far as to replace the black lines under the aqua lines with the thread used for the aqua lines.

This stitch diagram, along with all other #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams, can also be found on a Pinterest board here.

Be sure to follow whimsicalstitch.com on FacebookPinterestInstagram, and Twitter.

If you like what you see on this blog, want to learn some very creative decorative stitches, and how to put them all together, whimsicalstitch.com has a book for you! Mary’s Whimsical Stitches is a contemporary how-to collection of more than 250 stitches for stitchers regardless of skill level. The book includes updated and sequenced diagrams from this blog, all-new stitches, and a chapter on the basics of needlepoint. For more information, visit here.

whimsicalstitch.com also sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca DesignsSandra Gilmore, Purple Palm, Maggie, and Penny MacLeod, and many more. Click here to see the newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch! Please enjoy! Have a wonderful #whimsicalwednesday!

A Note about Diagrams
I use color in diagrams to make them as clear as possible.  The primary function of different colored lines is to illustrate a stitch sequence.  For example, layering of colors demonstrates you add them in that order.  They can also provide ideas on how to integrate additional threads (one line for each color).  Or, you can use the same thread for all color lines.  That's where I encourage you to use your imagination for the space you are stitching!

Just Right

I confess I have a formula for windows. Open stitch? Check. Small stitch? Check. Lightweight metallic? Check. Well, two out of three of those “rules" apply to today’s stitch.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Today’s stitch comes from one of my very first Stitch Guides (Lemons by Annie O’Brien Gonzales) and uses Kreinik Fine Braid (size 8) on 13-mesh. I concocted this stitch to fill rather large window panes, all the while staying true to my general approach of open stitches and lightweight metallics for windows.

Sidebar: If you want to kill more time (and hey, why not, it’s not like your boss is looking over your shoulder since you’re working from home), take a trip in the wayback machine to read about my (literal) discovery of open stitches for windows. (It also happens to come with two of my favorite window stitches.)

The path for this stitch is similar to blackwork. I call it a modified back stitch. Simply follow the outline of the pattern using back stitches. A traditional backstitch goes from left to right (or right to left)…repeatedly. With a modified back stitch, you alternate between left to right or right to left or up to down or down to up, depending on the pattern. When you get to an edge of the area, weave your thread through the threads on the back of the canvas to return to an open area and begin again. It’s also helpful to complete some solid stitching in the area so you have other places to bury the threads. In the stitched sample, I buried threads in the shaded window pane (white and light blue) and the green leaves.

This stitch will make a beautiful sky in the far background or water with 2-3 plies of Silk Floss (Soie d’Alger, Soie Cristale, Splendor, Needlepoint Inc Silk, etc) or a lightweight metallic (Kreinik Fine Braid, Kreinik Very Fine Braid, Petite Silk Lame, Bijoux, Soie Perle, etc)

This stitch diagram, along with all other #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams, can also be found on a Pinterest board here.

Be sure to follow whimsicalstitch.com on FacebookPinterestInstagram, and Twitter.

If you like what you see on this blog, want to learn some very creative decorative stitches, and how to put them all together, whimsicalstitch.com has a book for you! Mary’s Whimsical Stitches is a contemporary how-to collection of more than 250 stitches for stitchers regardless of skill level. The book includes updated and sequenced diagrams from this blog, all-new stitches, and a chapter on the basics of needlepoint. For more information, visit here.

whimsicalstitch.com also sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca DesignsSandra Gilmore, Purple Palm, Maggie, and Penny MacLeod, and many more. Click here to see the newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch! Please enjoy! Have a wonderful #whimsicalwednesday!

A Note about Diagrams
I use color in diagrams to make them as clear as possible.  The primary function of different colored lines is to illustrate a stitch sequence.  For example, layering of colors demonstrates you add them in that order.  They can also provide ideas on how to integrate additional threads (one line for each color).  Or, you can use the same thread for all color lines.  That's where I encourage you to use your imagination for the space you are stitching!

Let There Be White

On the off chance you didn’t know, I adore tramme stitches. Today’s variation is a great way to add more subtle direction.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Most of the tramme stitches I’ve shared with you have been horizontal or vertical with cute accent stitches. Today’s tramme uses diagonal base threads with long accent stitches. The accent stitches provide the subtle angle of the stitch.

The stitched sample is the stomach of a flying puffin (naturally), hence the use of a whole lotta white threads. The base threads (black lines) are Kreinik 1/16” ribbon. The gray lines are Petite Silk Lame and the aqua lines are Soie D'Alger. I acknowledge you may not be able to distinguish between the Petite Silk Lame and the Soie on the stitched sample but I promise they are distinct on the actual canvas.

The most difficult part of this stitch is the first step (black lines). If one of these diagonal lines is off by even a single canvas thread, it will screw up the remainder of the stitch. My recommendation is to start small and work up to the longer diagonal stitches.

An easy way to accomplish this is to add your first short diagonal stitch in a corner. For this example, start in the upper left corner from the left edge to the top edge. Double and triple-check that your first diagonal stitch travels along a perfect 45° diagonal path. After it is complete, count across four rows to the right, bring your thread up from behind the canvas at that point and return it four rows below the left-hand side of the prior diagonal stitch. Count down four rows, bring the thread up from behind the canvas and return it four rows to the right of the prior stitch on the top edge.

Select members of the needlepoint police may offer a more complex way to ensure that your threads are wrapped around the edges versus an ever so slight resulting from my technique. I do the first step of most of my tramme stitches in this manner, especially for large areas, in order to minimize the use of the thread and make this go as quickly as possible. It is a matter of personal preference. I find this counting method effective and easy.

I stumbled across this stitch for a roof with a similar angle. The angle was reinforced with painted lines at that angle (in a different color). That is where the idea emerged to use two different color threads for the straight stitches.

This stitch diagram, along with all other #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams, can also be found on a Pinterest board here.

Be sure to follow whimsicalstitch.com on FacebookPinterestInstagram, and Twitter.

If you like what you see on this blog, want to learn some very creative decorative stitches, and how to put them all together, whimsicalstitch.com has a book for you! Mary’s Whimsical Stitches is a contemporary how-to collection of more than 250 stitches for stitchers regardless of skill level. The book includes updated and sequenced diagrams from this blog, all-new stitches, and a chapter on the basics of needlepoint. For more information, visit here.

whimsicalstitch.com also sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca DesignsSandra Gilmore, Purple Palm, Maggie, and Penny MacLeod, and many more. Click here to see the newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch! Please enjoy! Have a wonderful #whimsicalwednesday!

A Note about Diagrams
I use color in diagrams to make them as clear as possible.  The primary function of different colored lines is to illustrate a stitch sequence.  For example, the layering of colors demonstrates you add them in that order.  They can also provide ideas on how to integrate additional threads (one line for each color).  Or, you can use the same thread for all color lines.  That's where I encourage you to use your imagination for the space you are stitching!

Happy #stitchingsunday

Welcome to the first #stitchingsunday featuring stitches from my book. The inaugural post features the Tramme stitch from one of my very first blog posts and one of my favorite go-to stitches.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Today’s stitched sample is an oh so sweet baby pillow from Abigail Cecile, featuring the Tramme stitch as a border. The stitcher used Kreinik Metallics for the base threads (black lines) and Sparkle Rays for the accent threads (aqua lines). Visit the original blog post here for more insight on how to navigate burying the threads as well as a little history on tramme stitches. The stitch can be found on page 147 in my book.

This stitch diagram, along with all other #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams, can also be found on a Pinterest board here.

Be sure to follow whimsicalstitch.com on FacebookPinterestInstagram, and Twitter.

If you like what you see on this blog, want to learn some very creative decorative stitches, and how to put them all together, whimsicalstitch.com has a book for you! Mary’s Whimsical Stitches is a contemporary how-to collection of more than 250 stitches for stitchers regardless of skill level. The book includes updated and sequenced diagrams from this blog, all-new stitches, and a chapter on the basics of needlepoint. For more information, visit here. Retailers carrying the book can be found here.

whimsicalstitch.com also sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca DesignsSandra Gilmore, Purple Palm, Maggie, and Penny MacLeod, and many more. Click here to see the newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch! Happy #stitchingsunday!

A Note about Diagrams
I use color in diagrams to make them as clear as possible. The primary function of different colored lines is to illustrate a stitch sequence. For example, layering of colors demonstrates you add them in that order. They can also provide ideas on how to integrate additional threads (one line for each color). Or, you can use the same thread for all color lines. That's where I encourage you to use your imagination for the space you are stitching!

What Day Is It?

Today’s stitch is a fun little open stitch from our friend, Ruth Schmuff. In all honesty, I don’t know what I like more…the stitch itself or just the very happy color combo on the piece. I hope this little burst of color helps brighten your indoor day, wherever that may be.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

The stitch uses two plies of Soie D'Alger (black lines) for a background on a sweet topiary. I would love to see this stitch on a large window with a lightweight metallic such as Bijoux or a Kreinik Metallic. I think it might be fun to do the single straight stitches in a different color or finish (or both) for a roof or floor.

While the stitched sample is a solid color, please remember how well open stitches enhance any beautiful shading that many contemporary canvases have.

This stitch diagram, along with all other #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams, can also be found on a Pinterest board here.

Be sure to follow whimsicalstitch.com on FacebookPinterestInstagram, and Twitter.

If you like what you see on this blog, want to learn some very creative decorative stitches, and how to put them all together, whimsicalstitch.com has a book for you! Mary’s Whimsical Stitches is a contemporary how-to collection of more than 250 stitches for stitchers regardless of skill level. The book includes updated and sequenced diagrams from this blog, all-new stitches, and a chapter on the basics of needlepoint. For more information, visit here. My favorite needlepoint retailers that carry the book can be found here.

whimsicalstitch.com also sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca DesignsSandra Gilmore, Purple Palm, Maggie, and Penny MacLeod, and many more. Click here to see the newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch! Please enjoy! Have a wonderful #whimsicalwednesday!

A Note about Diagrams
I use color in diagrams to make them as clear as possible.  The primary function of different colored lines is to illustrate a stitch sequence.  For example, layering of colors demonstrates you add them in that order.  They can also provide ideas on how to integrate additional threads (one line for each color).  Or, you can use the same thread for all color lines.  That's where I encourage you to use your imagination for the space you are stitching!

Calling All Stitchers!

2020.03.25 Stitching Sunday Submissions .jpg

Calling all Stitchers! It sounds like a lot of us are using these days to get a lot of stitching done. So, let’s do a show and tell. For the near term future, I’m going to dedicate Sundays to #stitchingsundays with your work using #whimsicalwednesday stitches.

This is a great opportunity to see how the whimsicalstitch community as a whole uses the stitches shared here or in my new book. I am confident there are some wonderful riffs on the whimsicalstitch library that will generate new ideas for anyone to use in your projects. 

To be included, please send the following to mary@whimsicalstitch.com:

  1. Stitched Sample Photo: A clear photo of your stitched sample. Ideally, the photo should be high res, straight on so we can see the detail, and clear of those annoying phone shadows (if possible).

  2. Threads: The thread(s) you used in the stitch, including brand name (e.g. Soie d’Alger, Splendor, Sundance Beads, Vineyard Silk), ply count (if applicable), and mesh size.

  3. Deisgner: Please include the name of the designer (if you know it).

  4. Stitch Source: Include a note if the stitch is from my new book and page # for the stitch if you know it.

  5. Instagram Handle: If you have an Instagram account, please include your account name so I can tag you!

 
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As an example, the photo on the right is the raw photo I used for yesterday’s #whimsicalwednesday stitched sample. I cropped and resized it to fit into the stitched sample template.

Please send photos of your stitched work and stitch/thread information to me at mary@whimsicalstitch.com.

My plan is to post them on Sundays as part of the #stitchingsunday theme. #whimsicalwednesdays will continue as scheduled.

Please join the fun! Stay safe, wash your hands, practice social distancing, and stitch!

Happy #smallsp...I mean #whimsicalwednesday

You aren’t losing your mind. Today’s stitch is small, but there is a good reason for that. Please read on to understand the why’s.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

The stitched sample is a background on a Funda Scully lidded jar (18-mesh). It alternates tiny diamonds and slightly larger diamonds with a metallic accent inside the larger diamonds. I used Soie D'Alger for all of the diamonds (black lines) and a Kreinik Metallics for the accents (aqua lines). I used three plies of the Soie for the tiny diamonds and two plies of the Soie for the larger diamonds.

This is a wonderful small stitch for a sky, water, clothing…you get the idea. And, yes, it is a small stitch on a Wednesday. I’m not trying to make your head explode. It’s just that I have a new plan for Sundays for the near to mid-term future.

Speaking of said new plan, I need your help! I think we would all love to see how the whimsicalstitch community as a whole uses the stitches shared here or in my new book. I have a feeling there may be some wonderful riffs on the whimsicalstitch library. And this is a great time to do this, as most of us have some time on our hands, so to speak. To be included, please send the following:

  1. Stitched Sample Photo: A clear photo of your stitched sample. Ideally, the photo should be high res, straight on so we can see the detail, and clear of those annoying phone shadows (if possible).

  2. Threads: The thread(s) you used in the stitch, including brand name (e.g. Soie d’Alger, Splendor, Sundance Beads, Vineyard Silk), ply count (if applicable), and mesh size.

  3. Deisgner: Please include the name of the designer (if you know it).

  4. Stitch Source: Include a note if the stitch is from my new book and page # for the stitch if you know it.

  5. Instagram Handle: If you have an Instagram account, please include your account name so I can tag you!

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As an example, the photo on the right is the raw photo I used for today’s stitched sample. I cropped and resized it to fit into the stitched sample template.

Please send photos of your stitched work and stitch/thread information to me at mary@whimsicalstitch.com.

My plan is to post them on Sundays as part of the #stitchingsunday theme. #whimsicalwednesdays will continue as scheduled.

This stitch diagram from above, along with all other #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams, can also be found on a Pinterest board here.

Be sure to follow whimsicalstitch.com on FacebookPinterestInstagram, and Twitter.

If you like what you see on this blog, want to learn some very creative decorative stitches, and how to put them all together, whimsicalstitch.com has a book for you! Mary’s Whimsical Stitches is a contemporary how-to collection of more than 250 stitches for stitchers regardless of skill level. The book includes updated and sequenced diagrams from this blog, all-new stitches, and a chapter on the basics of needlepoint. For more information, visit here.

whimsicalstitch.com also sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca DesignsSandra Gilmore, Purple Palm, Maggie, and Penny MacLeod, and many more. Click here to see the newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch! Please enjoy! Have a wonderful #whimsicalwednesday!

A Note about Diagrams
I use color in diagrams to make them as clear as possible.  The primary function of different colored lines is to illustrate a stitch sequence.  For example, layering of colors demonstrates you add them in that order.  They can also provide ideas on how to integrate additional threads (one line for each color).  Or, you can use the same thread for all color lines.  That's where I encourage you to use your imagination for the space you are stitching!

Blue Skies Ahead

Today’s choice of a blue sky was a complete coincidence. Yet, it’s so appropriate as we need to look forward to the blue skies beyond today’s unknown times. As we all know, needlepoint is a lovely way to keep busy and, quite honestly, distracted from the news.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Pinterest account. Visit pinterest.com/whimsicalstitch/whimsicalwednesday for a library of all #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

Click on image to see on whimsicalstitch.com's Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

This stitch is large yet not in charge because it is such a perfect background stitch. The stitched sample is a beautiful blue sky from Charley Harper’s Puffin. It uses two plies of Soie D’Alger (black lines) with accents using a lightweight Kreinik Metallic. (The accents are not included on the diagram the diagram would be too small if I included enough to illustrate the accent pattern.)

It is also elegant because it is so pretty, yet knows its place is in the background. You could also add a few empty rows between the repeating elements (on the horizontal axis) to create vertical columns.

My small contribution to your new indoor reality is a starter list of stitch resources. They include the whimsicalwednesday Pinterest page, a library of ALL diagrams from this blog. (It’s really great on a smart phone as each diagram fills the screen.) Sheena’s Sweet Stitches also offers a wide variety of great stitch diagrams. Chandail Needlework in Houston has an extensive library in their Stitch of the Month. Meredith Willet recently launched a Stitch of the Day specifically for the quarantine! And, last but never least, needlepoint.com has a page dedicated to learning needlepoint, a wonderful resource for beginners! Designers are sharing their new designs on Facebook and Instagram. Reach out to your favorite needlepoint retailer to order your newest favorite project (as many are enhancing their online and mail order services to help us get through this).

This stitch diagram, along with all other #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams, can also be found on a Pinterest board here.

Be sure to follow whimsicalstitch.com on FacebookPinterestInstagram, and Twitter.

If you like what you see on this blog, want to learn some very creative decorative stitches, and how to put them all together, whimsicalstitch.com has a book for you! Mary’s Whimsical Stitches is a contemporary how-to collection of more than 250 stitches for stitchers regardless of skill level. The book includes updated and sequenced diagrams from this blog, all-new stitches, and a chapter on the basics of needlepoint. For more information, visit here.

whimsicalstitch.com also sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca DesignsSandra Gilmore, Purple Palm, Maggie, and Penny MacLeod, and many more. Click here to see the newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch! Please enjoy! Have a wonderful #whimsicalwednesday!

A Note about Diagrams
I use color in diagrams to make them as clear as possible.  The primary function of different colored lines is to illustrate a stitch sequence.  For example, layering of colors demonstrates you add them in that order.  They can also provide ideas on how to integrate additional threads (one line for each color).  Or, you can use the same thread for all color lines.  That's where I encourage you to use your imagination for the space you are stitching!