In yesterday's comments Rachel mentioned the bullion stitch tutorial on White Threads which is Yvette Stanton's blog. Yvette is an Australian needlework author and publisher. I've heard of her Left Handed Embroider's Companion (which comes in a Right Handed version) but didn't know she had a website and I haven't seen her books. So I went looking for her site and found the following three part tutorial on making bullion knots. (Note that we can't use hoops with needlepoint canvas but I expect a frame will do.)
http://vettycreations.com.au/white-threads/2010/03/02/tips-for-working-better-bullion-stitch/
http://vettycreations.com.au/white-threads/2010/03/03/bullion-stitch-thread-twist-and-wrapping-direction/
http://vettycreations.com.au/white-threads/2010/03/04/bullion-stitch-to-hoop-or-not-to-hoop/
Yvette also mentioned Mary Corbet's brief article on choosing the right needles for making bullion and French knots. Note that some folks don't think the needle matters. I myself do just as good bullions with smaller tapestry needles as with thin milliner's needles. I don't see a difference in my bullions when all I change is the needle. But if it helps you, use a thin eyed needle.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2010/06/perfect-french-knots-perfect-bullions.html
Oh, yes, I did add more beads to Luna's dress last night.
Thanks for the additional resources, Rachel. We appreciate it!
Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com Archived Yahoo 360 postings at http://profiles.yahoo.com/chillyhollow
You're doing a fantastic job - the gown is stunning. Makes us feel like having one like that too
ReplyDeleteIt would be fun to have a dress like this, wouldn't it? I would not dare wear it in public but that's the charm of needlepointing such a thing. It'll never show every bulge on me!
ReplyDeleteGlad you like it. It is tedious to stitch but oh! so pretty!
Remember that the ladies of the U.K. and Mary Corbet are working their embroidery on fabric, so the smaller, sharper needles are best - whereas we do it on open scrim needlepoint canvas, so tapestry needles are fine. That's also why they use hoops and not frames.
ReplyDeleteSome tips to be gained, and I love Mrs. Owl--she really is a hoot! I can't believe I said that! LOL
ReplyDeleteThere's a Mr. Owl, too. Here's the link for those who missed the Canvas of the Day from Melissa Shirley/Debbie Mumm. Mr. Owl is on this page, too.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.busyneedle.com/Themes/Animals/annc19.htm
Luna's looking good too!
ReplyDelete