This week’s blog post is a blast from the past – and it’s chock full of terrific information about writing your own stitch guides…

Just the other day, someone asked me about which stitches might be good to use for the sky on a needlepoint canvas. And that’s a really great question, but you know what? It doesn’t have a “one-size-fits-all” answer.

Choosing stitches for any design component on a needlepoint canvas requires careful consideration and forethought.

I know, I know…you’re chomping at the bit to start stitching, but jumping in willy nilly often results in precious stitching time being spent “frogging” (you know…rip it, rip it!) – instead of making progress on your project.

How do you know where to start?

Well, the best place to begin is by evaluating the overall design.

First, think about how you’re going to finish the canvas. Is it going to be framed? Or will it be a pillow? Are you going to make it into a stand-up for your mantle or is it going to become an ornament for the Christmas tree?

Knowing how your project will be used when it’s finally made into that one-of-a-kind handmade treasure can really help narrow down your options.

Since choosing decorative stitches for a needlepoint project is a process…

let’s use my Tuscaloosa canvas as a working example.

First, this canvas is designed to be an ornament. And I plan to finish it as an ornament for my family’s Christmas tree.

That means I can use almost any kind of thread or stitch my heart desires because all this little guy will be doing is hanging out on my Christmas tree for about a month every year.

So, now that we know the project’s finished use, it’s time to make a list of the different design components.

What are design components?

Great question! They’re those individual items painted on your canvas.

In the case of my Tuscaloosa canvas, they’re the river, the trees, the grassy area with the park benches, the sidewalk, the railing, the lamp posts, the riverboat, Denny Chimes (the bell tower behind the trees), the word “Tuscaloosa”, and the sky.

Now, what’s the first thing the artist wants you to notice on my ornament?

Tell me what you think it is in the comments box below! Go ahead…don’t be shy. I can’t wait to hear from you and, remember, I read every single comment. 🙂

Alrighty, my friend – that’s all for now. Until next time…

Happy Stitching!
XOXO!!!

PS: Are you a member of the Serendipity Needleworks Facebook group? That’s where we share ideas and cheer each other on and I’d love to have you join us, so click here to request an invite. I’ll see you on the inside! 😉

Ellen Johnson