I might have mentioned before that McCall (of McCall Miller Designs) and I have been using 18 count linen for some projects.....using it just like 18 count canvas. We fold under about a 1/2 inch and then tack it to stretcher bars just like we would canvas. There is definitely more "spring" to the linen than the canvas, but still is taut enough for stitching. McCall just finished a set of four small squares, each 3-1/2 to 4 inches square. She framed two, purchased frames, no custom framing, and popped two into those small acrylic coasters. These are her own designs and she is thinking about making them available as sets. They are stitched with one Watercolour and three perles. We would be happy for any feedback about them.
Using needlepoint stitches on linen opens up all kind of possibilities as to uses. I stitched three of our squares together on one piece of linen, and then finished it into a tea cozy combined with quilt fabrics and top stitching using the Watercolours. Then I used the same three squares stitched together and finished it into an unstructured purse with a bamboo handle. You just can't do those things very well with canvas.
If anyone is interested I will be happy to post photos of the purse and the tea cozy. They are also in two entirely different color ways, which is always fun. I'll be here....preparing kits for seminar......so we'll be glad to hear any comments. Have a great week!
Article originally appeared on Terry Dryden Needlework Designs (http://www.terrydryden.com/).
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