One of the easiest ways to solve a dyelot problem is to create a pattern made entirely of Tent Stitches. If you can do basic needlepoint, you can do this. The patterns create a subtle texture that fits with almost any design.
When I first started using these patterns I called them needlepoint damask because if you use threads in contrasting textures they look like damask fabrics. You can get some of these free patterns in articles on this site (here and here).
The key to making these work is to stitch one part of the pattern in one dyelot and the rest in another. You can see this clearly in the background of this charming Needlepoint Inc piece. The rectangle outlines were stitched in the first, lighter, thread. The remainder was stitched in the second.
This particular pattern, charted below, could use up to four dyelots because the rectangles could be filled with one or two more dyelots.
There are many sources for Tent Stitch patterns that will give you lots of possibilities for this dyelot treatment. My favorite ones are Lynda Richardson’s Stitches a la Carte and the vintage book Patterned Backgrounds for Needlepoint. Ruth Schmuff’s Backgrounds CD also has these type of patterns. Further afield look for books of Fair Isle knitting patterns and folk art and ethnic cross stitch for more possibilities.
If your chosen chart has only one symbol, as the chart above has, stitch the symbol in one dyelot and fill in the second dyelot.
I think you’ll agree this is a very pretty solution to the problem. Watch the blog for another solution to the dyelot problem, coming soon!
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’m really liking this book.