Crathorne Bug - seeding complete

At last, seeding complete with one strand of DMC Col.644.

Next the legs in stem stitch . . . coming soon!

Crathorne Bug - seeding

Rules on seeding - in my opinion are - 
 - the stitches are all equal in length
 - the stitches are worked in random directions
 - the spacing between the seeding stitches should also be equal to achieve an overall seeded effect

I worked this seeding stitch fairly big and not too small, using one strand of DMC Col. 644

seeding and block shading

seeding with needle action - part 1

seeding with needle action - part 2

seeding complete with Bayeux stitch

block shading over split stitch - stage 1

block shading over split stitch - stage 2

block shading complete!

Seeding - I had worked the seeding previously all over the leaves - then, when I read Nikki's instructions - I realised it only needed to be around the edge of the leaves, which I preferred - so I started again!

Block shading - This stitch is worked similar to long and short shading, except, on the second row, each stitch is worked in line next to one another, so that bands or blocks of shading are created!

P.S. - I have now actually finished this whole project, but I have decided to spread my posts over the coming weeks so you will still be able to follow my progress and watch this crewel work design for Nicola Jarvis's exhibition grow!

symmetrical design . . .

progress so far

My working frame showing the symmetrical design, trying to balance every stitch on both the left and right hand sides.  It is really easy to have seeding on one side worked closer together or bigger than the other.  Difficult . . .

© 2012 Nicola Jarvis Studio

A section of Nicola's design from which I am working from and The Unbroken Thread blog ~ see Kathy's progress too . . .

next stage . . .

long and short, seeding and fishbone stitch

Slowly coming together - showing V-seeding, ordinary seeding, fishbone stitch for the small leaves, and more long and short shading . . .

mark making . . .

logo images with a gold whipped wheel, appliqué, seeding and a little couching

line

layered mono printing

I made these prints on a Alison King workshop through Hexham Embroiderers' Guild on a variety of plain fabrics and papers.  All are mono printed which involved acrylic paint and a laminated sheet.  Very easy and addictive because it is quick, once there is an understanding of the level of paint to use.  I plan to use some of them as backgrounds for future work.  This was all on the theme of Durham Cathedral, where I work as Head Broderer, and my logo which is a little like Saint Cuthbert's cross.

Crewel work

samples from crewel work book
ISBN 9780956638809

Self published book on crewel work embroidery showing designs, stitch techniques, using two-ply worsted wool yarn known as crewel wool, on linen twill fabric.

The book, which is mainly picture based, details how stitches such as seeding, French and Bullion knots, and trellis work can be used in pattern and design.

Retail price is £29.99 plus p&p.  For further information and purchase, please contact info@tracyafranklin.com 

the stamp

the finished stamp - showing detail of satin stitch and seeding

showing more detail and depth

The completed stamp was taken from an ink jet printed design.  My objective was to enhance the design with simple stitch rather than detract.  The whole design contains, couching, running stitch, seeding (single and double), satin stitch, stem stitch, using a tarnished 'passing' metal thread, stranded cotton, and a metallic stranded thread (which is a nightmare to use, but I am sure that is part of its charm!).  Design is approximately 12cm x 17cm and worked on plain cotton fabric.

Jubilee

ink-jet image on fabric - work in progress

detail - double seeding over ink mark

My Jubilee piece for a workshop at the Museum of Fulham Palace.  Totally experimental, but enjoyed the process.