|
||||||
Diagonal Tapestry StitchesJo KeffordThe canvas work stitches in this first group are classified as diagonal stitches because all of them are worked to slant diagonally across the threads of the canvas. Included in the diagonal group are tent stitches, the most familiar and frequently used of all canvas work stitches. Tent stitches produce an even texture applicable to any type of design. Using several tones of one color is often applied to produce the subtle effect of shading a flow petal. Each of the other diagonal stitches has its own distinctive texture or pattern. Whether you use any diagonal stitch will depend on first, whether you find it appealing, and second, how well its size and pattern meet the requirements of your canvas work design. Diagonal stitches over one mesh can be formed with either a half-cross or a tent stitch. Tent stitch, which can be worked horizontally, vertically or diagonally, is more hard wearing than half-cross, but uses up more thread. The diagonal method is often preferred because it distorts the canvas less. Half-cross stitch is difficult work on single canvas, as the stitches slip at the mesh points. Half-cross can be made more durable by working over a laid thread. Slanted Gobelin Stitches Each of the individual slanted Gobelin and encroaching slanted Gobelin stitches is formed in the same way; each can vary in size to the same degree. The visual difference between the two is the caused by the way the rows of stitches are placed. The rows of slanted Gobelin Stitches are kept separate, producing a definite, row-by-row configuration. Rows of encroaching slanted Gobelin stitches overlap, resulting in a single uniformed texture. Both stitches can be adapted in size to suite confined or background areas of a canvas work design. Byzantine stitches Byzantine stitch and its variation, jacquard stitch, form striking patters of diagonal, uniformly stepped rows of stitches. Each stitch in the Byzantine pattern is long and slanted; the jacquard pattern alternates rows of Byzantine stitches with rows of horizontal and vertical tent stitches. The size of both the long stitches and the steps can vary. Both patterns are ideal for use as background in canvas work. A second color can easily be introduced into either pattern by alternating the color of the thread used for the rows. Mosaic Stitches Mosaic stitch produces a block-like pattern through repitition of the same three stitches. Rows of these stitches can be worked either horizontally or diagonally across the canvas. When only one thread color is used, both methods result in the same pattern; when two colors are used, because the colors are differently placed with each method, the resulting pattern will differ greatly. For more top tapestry and canvas work tips, visit http://www.toptapestry.com . All the sources of inspiration you need to complete your very own masterpiece.
|
||||||
