Simple Elegance

Book excerpt: Simple Elegance is an advanced beginner level counted needlepoint project, and assumes some experience in counting stitches from a chart onto blank canvas. Detailed illustrations, closeup photos and clear diagrams will guide you through each of 16 different layered stitches, using three colors (ecru perle cotton plus two shades of metallic braid). Some canvas shows through the stitchery, adding to the textured effect. This project adapts readily to a variety of color choices, and a number of color suggestions and examples are given. The stitch count of all 16 squares as shown on the original sampler is 138 by 138 for a finished size of approximately 8 inches square on 18 count canvas. Individual squares would make delightful ornaments or small projects. Materials list for the model shown on the front cover: 2 skeins Ecru DMC Perle 5 1 ball Ecru DMC Perle 8 2 spools 002 Gold Kreinik Fine (#8) Braid 2 spools 102 Vatican Kreinik Fine (#8) Braid Zweigart Brown #18 deluxe mono canvas, cut 14 inches square (36cm). Tapestry needles size 22 and 24 14 inch (36cm) square stretcher bars or a roller frame