So Many Variations, So Little Time

When I originally posted today's stitch more than three years ago, I offered four different choices to fill the open spaces.  Today's #stitchingsunday offers you a fifth idea.  I hope you like it!

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.

The stitched sample is from the same unfinished floral project as this past Wednesday.  (And when I say unfinished, it will never be unfinished.)  It uses Trebizond Silk, Kreinik Metallics Fine Braid (#8), and a size 11 Sundance bead on 18-mesh. 

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 Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, 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 sells stitch guides and stitch concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca Designs, and Patience Brewster. 81 guides are currently available, with 20 new Stitch Concepts just added! 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!

Order the Profiteroles

I finally assembled today's blog at 11:00 last night.  Why?  Because I ordered the profiteroles at dinner last week instead of scampering home and writing the blog.  I regret it...kinda.  The good news is you have your stitch, I had my profiteroles (my all-time favorite dessert) with the one and only Ginabean, and it's a holiday today!  Let's celebrate all of the above with a super fun tramme 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 Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

The stitched sample uses Elegance (dark gray lines), Trebizond Silk (turquoise lines), and Kreinik Metallics Fine Braid (#8) on 18-mesh.  It's a wonderful tone on tone combo that highlights the beautiful shading of the flowers.

This stitch would be even more dramatic with different colors and/or finishes.  I would love to see it as a roof with Very Velvet, Silk Straw, and maybe some Fine Kid (by & more threads).  Another idea is for a coat or bag with Sparkle Rays for the base thread (dark gray line) with Soie D'Alger (turquoise lines) and a dramatic Kreinik Metallic for the center accent stitch (the aqua line).  I'm thinking a Kreinik holographic threads (indicated by an L after the color number) would be perfect.  They are a wonderful burst of even more color than the "typical" Kreinik. 

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 Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, 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 sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca Designs, and Patience Brewster. Click here to see the 20 newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch!  Please enjoy and have a happy and safe 4th!  

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!

Big Red

I can't decide if today's column is about a stitch (it is) or about threads (it is).  Because, frankly, the diagram is kinda boring.  The stitched sample is far from boring.

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.

The stitched sample uses DMC Perle #5 (light gray lines), Neon Rays (black lines), and Fyre Werks (turquoise lines).  The layering for this stitch is very important. Start with the light gray (vertical) lines, followed by the black (horizontal) lines, and end with the X's on top (aqua lines). The stitched sample is from the retired Linda Carter Holman piece I've featured in a few posts recently (here and here). 

More often than not, I use the same threads for the straight stitches in a layered stitch.  Today's sample is an exception to my typical pattern...and I like it. Two distinct threads for the straight stitches add contrast, especially the Neon Rays. The two rows of Neon Rays merge together to look like a wide ribbon, a fun contrast to the distinct shape of the DMC Perle. Clearly, a laying tool played a role here. 

This stitch would be so much fun with different colors.  Imagine it as a coat for a Santa with Very Velvet (vertical lines), Vineyard Silk (horizontal lines), and an oversized Kreinik in a contrasting color, such as gold, for the X.  Consider using two colors for the stripes, say blue for the vertical and green for the horizontal, tied down with a third color for a bedspread or decorative pillow.  Combine some really unique textures, such as Rainbow Linen and Impressions for the straight lines, and tie it down with Wisper or Fuzzy Stuff for a very au natural roof.

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 Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, 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 sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca Designs, and Patience Brewster. Click here to see the 20 newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch!  Please enjoy!

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!

Skinny Fish

Today's stitch was an accident.  The original plan was a #stitchingsunday with this stitch.  It was only when I assembled this blog that I learned it was ever so slightly different.  Oops!  The silver lining is you now have another new 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 Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

The stitched sample is another bird wing from a student in a recent embellishment class, using three plies of Splendor and Kreinik Metallics Fine Braid (#8).  Technically, this is a Herringbone stitch.  However, I don't see it that way because the alternating thread finishes draw my eye to horizontal columns of oblique stitches. 

This stitch is perfect for tall narrow spaces, such as fireplaces, tree trunks, (shirt or coat) arms, or stripes in wallpaper.  Some of those ideas are oddly specific, but isn't kinda cool to have ideas for some of those off the radar areas?  I also think it would be an adorable moon using two metallics with distinctly different finishes, such as Flair and Kreinik or Silk Lame and Entice.  Just some food for thought.

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 Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, 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 sells stitch guides and stitch concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca Designs, and Patience Brewster. 81 guides are currently available, with 20 new Stitch Concepts just added! 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 #smallspacesunday!

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!

Wide, Wide Open

Today's stitch came from two places.  A stitching friend used it on a background for a floral piece. My plan was to borrow it from her piece.  Imagine the very pleasant surprise when I realized I had it on one of my very own pillows!  (You probably aren't surprised to learn I have more than my fair share of needlepoint pillows.)

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.

The stitched sample is a single petal from a retired Melissa Shirley floral.  (It's not on her site, but it is a cousin of this, this, and this canvas.  (I have a sneaky suspicion I have at least one of cousins in my stash somewhere.)

The stitched sample uses a single strand of Impressions (turquoise lines in the diagram) and Kreinik Metallics Tapestry Braid (#12) (gray lines).  I recommend adding the diamonds in halves across the horizontal axis and following up with the Kreinik, weaving around the Impressions on the back of the canvas to minimize dragged threads.  I absolutely love the end result. Quick tip on choosing the thread to use in dramatic open work.  I gravitate towards the dominant color.  In this case, for the entire flower, the dominant color was the yellow.

As I mentioned earlier, a stitching friend used this stitch for a lovely open background on a floral still life.  It would also make a wonderful floor, wall, or roof.  Clearly, it lends itself to use in a sampler.  I would love to see it in the center of said sampler with other fun open stitches surrounding it.

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 Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, 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 sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca Designs, and Patience Brewster. Click here to see the 20 newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch!  Please enjoy!

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!

Straight Yet Diagonal

Today's stitch is fun and different, while also deceiving.  It's nothing but straight stitches yet delicate diagonal columns emerge. 

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.

The columns consist of pairs of stitches (on the horizontal axis).  The pairs are over five rows and over two rows or pairs of two stitches over two rows.  To make the columns work, it's really important to remember to leave an empty row in between the columns.

The stitched sample is from the sky of a sweet little Christmas ornament and uses Petite Silk Lame.  It's not quite as obvious as the diagram.  That said, I love how subtle and elegant the stitch is.

This stitch would make a great tabletop, using two colors of Burmilana in alternating columns.  It would also make lovely, yet discreet, water, especially in a wide but short space.  Don't be afraid to flip it 90° and use it for a different sky, greenery, or walkways.  

I added a disclaimer about diagrams at the bottom of all recent blog posts.  Today's diagram is a perfect example of that disclaimer.  The colors in the diagram help differentiate the pattern and illustrate the diagonal columns.  

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 Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, 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 sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca Designs, and Patience Brewster. Click here to see the 20 newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch!  Please enjoy!

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!

I. Love. This. Stitch.

Today's stitch is a variation on another favorite stitch. It's a great pop of colors and finishes that can help bring a small space to life. I. Love. This. 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 Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

The stitched sample is me playing with Vineyard Silk and Kreinik Metallics 1/16" Ribbon on 13-mesh. 

There are so many applications for this stitch. I integrated this stitch into a student's project with Lorikeet for a small bush, replacing the single tent stitches with French Knots. It would make a darling sweater or small Christmas stocking, especially with two colors and/or two different finishes. The stitched sample is a perfect example of that. Consider leaving the two tent stitches out for an open stitch for any sort of small greenery or even water.

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 Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, 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 sells stitch guides and stitch concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca Designs, and Patience Brewster. 81 guides are currently available, with 20 new Stitch Concepts just added! 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! Enjoy! Happy #smallspacesunday!

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!

Cute Clusters

Today's stitch is a sweet and sassy pop to almost any stitched piece.  

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.

The stitched sample is the sky from a cute little ocean ornament, using DMC Perle #8 and Frosty Rays.  I am pleasantly surprised at how well this works in a relatively small space.  Just enough of the pattern emerges to make it work. 

I would love to see this as a floor, using a silk floss for the gray lines and a darker gray Silk Lame for the center.  Taking the tile theme one step further, each cluster would make a great roof!  I love strand-able wools for roofs; consider Burmilana, Bella Lusso Merino Wool, or Lorikeet.  My last idea is to use it for a wallpaper.  I'm really fond of size 12 Perle Cotton, especially for 18-mesh.  It is especially great for areas you want to recede into the background. Combining a cute stitch, such as today's, plus a lightweight thread gives you something fun to stitch yet it won't overwhelm the remainder of the project.

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 Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, 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 sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca Designs, and Patience Brewster. Click here to see the 20 newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch!  Please enjoy!

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!

Every Which Way...is Right

Every time I see this stitch, I see a different path to stitch it. This is the perfect example of how not every numbering pattern is for everyone. What's more important is that it is a cute and effective 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 Instagram account. Visit instagram.com/whimsicalstitch to see a library of stitched samples for select #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams.

This stitched sample is a roof from Emma Williams Rooftops stitch guide, using DMC Perle Cotton #8 on 13-mesh. The shading on this canvas is exquisite and I went out of my way to expose it or integrate the color schemes of the individual roofs into an appropriate full coverage stitch. This stitch accentuates shading in a great way as the open areas are not a traditional shape nor are they on perfect 90° or 45° angles.  It's intriguing to me.

Technically, it's a small stitch, yet I wouldn't classify it as such because of the open areas. I think this would make great water as, at first glance, it's a little messy. Long-time readers may recall my go-to threads for water are Petite Silk Lame and/or a lightweight Kreinik Metallic. It would be very interesting as a tree or green space with Lorikeet, Burmilana, or ThreadWorx overdyed floss or wools. 

To close the loop on numbering from earlier.  This is such a perfect example of how numbering is in the eyes of the beholder.  The first time I stitched it, I stitched similar squares from right to left on a downward oblique angle (essentially skipping a row across).  When I returned to it, I stitched it in horizontal columns, skipping two rows in between and returning up the horizontal column with the squares in the other direction.  It's all a matter of perspective.  Neither way was better or easier.  It was simply the way I saw it at that given time.  

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 Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, 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 sells Stitch Guides and Stitch Concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca Designs, and Patience Brewster. Click here to see the 20 newest guides and click here to see the entire collection.

I hope you have the perfect spot for this stitch!  Please enjoy!

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!

Fly, Little Bird, Fly!

Today's #stitchingsunday is an ever so slight variation on a past post.  Today's version alternates colors and fills the empty spots.  Pretty darn glamorous for a small space stitch!

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.

The stitched sample is a bird wing from a student in a recent embellishment class.  It includes Burmilana and two shades of Petite Silk Lame.  What draws me to the stitch was the subtle directional element, which conveniently matches the angle of the wing.  Two diagrams are included today.  The center diagram reflects the stitched sample and the diagram on the far right is the original diagram from the original post.  

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 Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, 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 sells stitch guides and stitch concepts for Melissa Shirley Designs, Zecca Designs, and Patience Brewster. 81 guides are currently available, with 20 new Stitch Concepts just added! 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!