Box stitches are my favorite family of stitches. Too often though, the grid structure of box stitches can give them too strong a pattern for backgrounds. The way to solve this problem is to offset the boxes in these stitches. I first tried this with Scotch Stitch on one of the Cooper Oaks Provencal ladies, but Scotch can be too large for smaller canvases such as the crab pictured here. For these canvases try offset Mosaic. I like how this stitch has a very subtle texture that works so well for backgrounds.
Still waiting for threads.
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
Mary P Paddy says
I’m from Maryland and love blue crabs. I’ve seen this design on stickers for cars but never needlepoint.
Is there anyway I could get a copy of the design?
Thank you,
Mary P Paddy
21marypaddy@gmail.com
Janet M Perry says
The designer is Kristine Kingston& is distributed by Chris Lewis. Any needlepoint shop can order it for you.
I’ve stitched it twice I like it so much!
Keep stitching,
Janet