How’s this for a great combination for a quick and fun needlepoint project? Combine a thread that can use two or more threads. Divide a square or rectangle into quadrants with bands of Diagonal Gobelin, and finish it up with a big bow using wired ribbon. What do you have? A charming ornament that looks like a present. Pick 13 or 14 mesh canvas for the most impact.
I did this one in Christmas colors, but you could make it in any colors you want (it could be a cool birthday present or wedding gift. I picked Jacquard (diagrammed below), stitched in Very Velvet and Shimmer Blend Ribbon Floss. The “ribbon” is white and stitched in Silk Lame. Just like a real package, the Diagonal Gobelin goes through in one direction, so it looks as if the ribbon overlaps.
To finish it, find a wired ribbon about the width of the Diagonal Gobelin. It can be the same or a different color. Thread your needle and, from front to back on one corner of the crossing, bring it into the canvas, leaving a long tail. Go to the opposite corner of the crossing and bring it out of the canvas. Unthread the needle, even up the ends and tie it in a big bow. Cut the ribbon ends so they are even and decorative.
Adjust the wire edges to make it big and pretty. This can also be done, using a curved needle once the ornament is finished.
This ornament works up fast and is a wonderful way to try out both threads and stitches.
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
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