Updated March 10, 2020.
Bargello is one of the easiest needlepoint stitches. It’s made up of straight stitches, usually over four threads. The pattern moves in steps with one or more stitches in each step.
Usually, though not always the steps are the same number of threads up or down.
It’s the number of stitches in a step and the direction of the steps that make a pattern.
NO matter how long the stitch is, a Bargello stitch is always the same.
To make one:
- Bring your needle out of the canvas at the bottom point of the stitch.
- Count up four threads.
- Bring you need back into the canvas in that hole.
That’s it, you’ve made a Bargello stitch.
To make a step:
- From the bottom or top of the current stitch count up or down the number of threads in the step, usually two.
- Bring your needle out of the canvas.
- This could be the top or bottom of the new stitch, depending on which it is count up or down four threads.
- Bring the needle back into the canvas.
You’ve made a Bargello step. Knowing these two things, you can follow any Bargello line pattern to make great needlepoint. Here’s an example of one:
Pick either 3-5 shades on the same thread in one color family, or 3-5 different threads that go together to make your project. Arrange them in an order you like. Decide on the size of your project and stitch one line per thread in your order until the project is finished.
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
Do you have guide for long and short stitch if so where can I fine it? Want to use on fox and also schnauzer. Thanks
Jo
I don’t have ones that I’ve written. However there is an excellent one I’ve written about at the Needle n’Thread blog. To find those articles, just put long short in the search box.
Keep stitching,
Janet
Thanks, I’ll check out the blog out.
Jo
Do you design or paint bargello canvases? I’ve seen some people working on your designs (I think) and they look amazing! Would love to try it!
Yes, I design Bargello and have projects, books, and a class — all available in my Etsy shop. I also will create and chart custom Bargello patterns. There are also lots of free Bargello patterns her in Nuts about Needlepoint.
Typically Bargello is charted and not painted.
Keep stitching,
Janet