Although I am making progress on the tree and branches for the birds, it isn’t very exciting. I’m hoping to finish that part today. Finally, I’ll be able to start on the birds.
I’m stitching them primarily in silk, using Splendor. Because I’m changing the colors on some of the birds, I have Sibley’s Guide to help me figure out colors. I also used this to identify the virds, along with several birding websites.
Today I wanted to talk about where I’m getting my stitch ideas for them. I’m using three sources, all with some great stitch ideas.
First, I’m using Carol Hedge Baird’s Field Guide to Stitching Birds. I really like that it gives you ideas for stitches depending on how the bird is oriented. It can be hard to visualize stitches as you turn areas, so this is a big help. I have it by my stitching chair.
Next, I’m using my In Bloom book. There are many interesting stitches in it. Although the book is on flowers and plants, I think there are some good ideas there.
My last source is my stitches board on Pinterest. Whenever I see a stitch I like I pin it there. It has dozens. When I’m looking for a stitch I check it out. In fact many of the stitches you’ll see in this 25 stitches series come from there (you can still sign up, it starts tomorrow, go here).
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
Katherine Louthan says
Thank you so much for the stitch source suggestion!!! I have a beautiful Charlie Harper I want to start but am completely stalled trying to choose stitches for not only the bird but the water!
Janet M Perry says
I know that feeling. As I make progress I’ll try to post where I found the stitches.
Keep stitching,
Janet