Jo Kefford
The 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.