Double Smyrna Blocks in Log Cabin Needlepoint Sampler

The third log in the major color for our sampler uses a variation of Smyrna Cross, but groups them into blocks that create a bold, highly textured grid.

Stitch the log in Double Smyrna Cross, below, using the third lightest color thread in your major color.

Smyrna Cross uses a block that is 2 threads square. Double Smyrna uses a block that’s 3 threads square. The stitch diagram shows you how to make this stitch. Begin by making the regular Cross Stitch over the 3-thread square. Then make two Straight Stitches in one direction. Finish the stitch with two Straight Stitches in thew opposite direction.

For this log we group the stitch into squares made up of four crosses. Between each square block, leave one thread open. This will make the stitch come out evenly in the log.

This is a useful technique to use for creating larger sizes of some stitches. By grouping and creating blocks then framing them with either Tent Stitch or open threads, you create a dominant pattern of the larger blocks. You can do this technique with most square of rectangular stitches.

Follow the Series On-line!

• Introduction, materials and outlining
• Corner Block
• Genny’s Scotch
• Double Brick & Upright Milanese
• Scottish Checker
• Point de Tresse
• Giant Expanded Diagonal Cashmere
• Laidwork (Junipero)
• Montmartre Stitch
• Double Smyrna Cross block
• Ming Stitch
• Patterned Threes
• Diagonal Shingle

Come back next week for the next part of the sampler!