We were treated to a very inspirational talk last night by Gail Tutcher.
Gail told us about the history and origins of Bargello stitch, she explained how it is worked, and showed examples of her own work, and the many ways in which it can be adapted to achieve beautiful effects.
We would like to set a challenge this month for members to create an item using bargello stitch. It could be a needlecase, a book cover, a cushion, or even perhaps a doorstop!
The basic stitch is a very simple, repetitive counted stitched traditionally worked with wool on canvas, but it could possibly be worked on any even-weave fabric using a thread that is thick enough to fill the holes and to cover the fabric.
Sometimes its nice to sit and stitch something simple and repetitive that’s not taxing on the brain, and the results can be just stunning.
Sometimes its nice to sit and stitch something simple and repetitive that’s not taxing on the brain, and the results can be just stunning.
Pattern inspiration can be found on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/rgreen6040/bargello-free-patterns/
Canvas fabric can be purchased through Amazon and eBay, just search for 'Zweigart Tapestry Needlepoint canvas'. 12 or 14 count is probably about the best to work on.
Appletons Tapestry wool can again be purchased through Amazon and eBay for about 99p a skein.
HOWEVER, it would be nice to see what can be achieved using materials you have to hand - maybe embroidery floss on Aida, or knitting wools into Hessian...?
Please send images of your work to [email protected] so that we can add your work to this blog post.
There are a few books on Amazon that teach new and modern variations should you wish to add them to your wish list :)
Have fun!
PS. I have received a message from Gail:
"If anyone is interested, there is a new book available on Bargello which has good illustrations:
‘Bargello Stitch: A pattern directory for dramatic needlepoint’ by Laura Angell & Lynsey Angell, pub by Search Press August 2020
I’ve been looking up the details of the tapestry canvas that I use. I think it is interlock 10 holes per inch canvas like the example here: https://www.stitchtastic.com/store/interlock-canvas-10hpi-2 or here: https://www.woolwarehouse.co.uk/fabric/zweigart-10-count-interlock-canvas-white-40-100cm-40inch-wide
I have used Wool Warehouse several times for threads and they are very efficient and reasonably priced."
Canvas fabric can be purchased through Amazon and eBay, just search for 'Zweigart Tapestry Needlepoint canvas'. 12 or 14 count is probably about the best to work on.
Appletons Tapestry wool can again be purchased through Amazon and eBay for about 99p a skein.
HOWEVER, it would be nice to see what can be achieved using materials you have to hand - maybe embroidery floss on Aida, or knitting wools into Hessian...?
Please send images of your work to [email protected] so that we can add your work to this blog post.
There are a few books on Amazon that teach new and modern variations should you wish to add them to your wish list :)
Have fun!
PS. I have received a message from Gail:
"If anyone is interested, there is a new book available on Bargello which has good illustrations:
‘Bargello Stitch: A pattern directory for dramatic needlepoint’ by Laura Angell & Lynsey Angell, pub by Search Press August 2020
I’ve been looking up the details of the tapestry canvas that I use. I think it is interlock 10 holes per inch canvas like the example here: https://www.stitchtastic.com/store/interlock-canvas-10hpi-2 or here: https://www.woolwarehouse.co.uk/fabric/zweigart-10-count-interlock-canvas-white-40-100cm-40inch-wide
I have used Wool Warehouse several times for threads and they are very efficient and reasonably priced."