Offset Chevron Bargello Ornament Free Project

Updated September 19, 2023.
This Offset Chevron Bargello Ornament Free Project is so easy, that you’ll start it tonight and have it finished tomorrow. Inspired by a modern quilt, pictured here, diagonal lines of Straight Gobelin change directions along an off-center line.

Our design creates a stronger line because all the diagonal rows will start and stop along a straight line instead of overlapping as in the inspiration quilt (see the chart below).

Begin by picking the size of your round. The project will be finished in a Lee Needle Arts piece of your choice. Make a 4″ round if you plan on finishing it in the ornament or coaster. Make a 3″ round if you plan on finishing it in the luggage tag, mirror, round box, or other item fitting the 3″ round canvas.

Trace the circle onto canvas (13, 14, 16, or 18 mesh is best) using an extra-fine marker made for marking fabric (I like PIGMA Microns). Off-center and along one column of canvas holes, draw a line. This line will be where each row turns.

Pick a color scheme and gather threads from your stash in this color. Flat and stranded threads work best because the Bargello will look smooth. If you use rounded threads, do not pick ones that won’t fluff when stitched. For example, silk/wool blends are great, but metallic braids are not.

In your mix of threads do not use multi-colored overdyes, although overdyes that are semi-solid shades of the same color are fine. Do not use many metallics because they will attract attention to themselves. Hand-dyed ‘solid’ threads are fine.

The smoother your stitching, the more the Bargello will look like fabric or ribbons, a look we want here.

After your canvas is dry, start at one edge on the circle somewhere near, but not at, the top of the left side. Following the chart below make a row of Straight Gobelin over three threads.

When you get to the line, you will need to decide two things. First, decide if this bottom stitch will belong to the row on the right or on the left. Every row will use the same side.

Second, decide if the right side of this row will be the same color or a different color from the left side. The chart below shows two rows using different colors on each side.

Once you have stitched the round, cut it out about five threads from the outside edge. Following the instructions that came with your item, finish the design.

Last of all decide if you want to keep it or give it as a gift.