Finding great stitches that play well with rounded shapes can be a real challenge. Tis is especially true when it comes to backgrounds. Think about it: how many stitches can you think of that would look great behind a round vases full of flowers (which are also round)?
That’s why I love this week’s stitch, Ming, below. I first discovered this stitch in one of Brenda Hart’s books. She’s the one who noted how great it is for rounded areas.
The stitch is made up of Straight Stitches in various lengths. It becomes rounded because the longest stitch is repeated. I think the finished stitch has a shape kind of like the holes in chicken wire, but there is not a strong resemblance.
Stitch this patch in the third darkest color of your major color.
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!
About Janet M Perry
Janet Perry is the Internet's leading authority on needlepoint. She designs, teaches and writes, getting raves from her fans for her innovative techniques, extensive knowledge and generous teaching style. A leading writer of stitch guides, she blogs here and lives on an island in the northeast corner of the SF Bay with her family
I find when stitching black the sun light helps a lot.