A Tale of Two Stitches
Number 11 of the series.From the authors -
There is a huge bank of techniques and materials available when creating stitched textiles. Some are subject to fashion, others evolve because of new products on the market. However the simple practice of hand stitching has remained as a dynamic means of creating surfaces for practical or decorative cloths.In this booklet we look at just two stitches, Sorbello and Lock stitch, primarily because we like using them. The concept of working with one stitch and extending the boundaries is not new but it is never possible to overestimate how valuable it can be in terms of innovative approaches to stitch. The purpose of working in this way is not to constrain creativity but to apply lateral thinking and encourage new ways of looking at stitching.
Before exploring at the individual possibilities there are some basic guidelines that apply when working any hand stitching.
Working with or without a frame is a matter of personal choice but when working intensive areas of textured stitching a frame keeps the fabric taut and eases the working process. A floor frame or other hands free frame may also be helpful.
Background fabrics can vary but a not too closely woven fabric, easy to stitch into, such as medium weight cotton will be better for stitching. If a fabric is difficult to work with it acts as a disincentive to building up stitches.
The correct needle will also help. One job of the needle is to ease the path of the thread through the fabric and for thick threads a chenille needle with a large eye and a sharp point will do exactly that.
These days, creative stitchers enjoy experimenting with the fabulous range of threads and yarns now available. They may be collected over years and stored in co-ordinated colours. Torn fabrics, string, wool, raffia, ribbon, braid and knitting tape could all be used.
It is hoped that some of the approaches suggested in this book might encourage you to try, revise and extend these fascinating stitches.
Soft cover - magazine style.
Price: $29.90 ($27.18)
Contents
Introduction
Sorbello Stitch
The Power of Stitch
Variations
Inspirations for Stitch
Lock Stitch
Inspiration and Interpretation
Rhythmic Stitched Surfaces
Structures and Distortions
In Conclusion
Postscript and suppliers