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Garland Twist

by Sue Kerndt

Stitching Materials

8" x 8" 18 count interlock canvas (white)
8" x 8" stretcher bars and tacks
#22 & #24 tapestry needles
Beading Needle
DMC #3 Pearl Cotton - Medium Green 501
DMC #3 Pearl Cotton - Medium Light Green 502
DMC #5 Pearl Cotton - Dark Green 500
DMC #5 Pearl Cotton - Red 498
DMC #8 Pearl Cotton - Red 498 (for hanger and tassel)
Kreinik #8 Metallic Braid - Gold 002HL
Caron Collection Impressions - White 0057
Mill Hill Antique Glass Beads - Red 03049
Red sewing thread

Materials for Finishing

Sharp sewing needle, #20 chenille needle
Small piece of lightweight cardboard
Small piece of coordinating fabric
White or invisible sewing thread
Polyfil material or quilt batting for stuffing

About the Threads

Three different types of threads have been selected for this project although you may use any threads suitable for upright and slanted stitches on 18-count canvas. The threads have been selected for their ease of use and to show examples of different textures, weights and sheens.

Pearl Cotton (DMC, Anchor) is a twisted thread made of 100% cotton. It has a slight sheen which reflects light when stitched in different directions. It is available in four sizes - the smaller the number, the heavier the thread. It comes in skeins and/or balls depending on the size. To open a skein, remove the wrappers from both ends. Untwist and cut once at the knot. This will give you approximately one yard lengths. Replace the wrappers and knot the group of threads. Stitch with only half of this amount. Pearl cotton will loose its sheen and twist with longer lengths. Even with 18" lengths, it is helpful to tighten the twist while stitching.
Kreinik Braid (Kreinik Mfg.) is a synthetic metallic that comes in five different weights. The smaller the number, the finer the thread. It is available in a wide range of colors, as well as different lusters. The thread is soft enough to be stitchable, however the larger sizes may have to be couched if used on small mesh canvas. Stitch with 18" to 24" lengths to preserve the luster of the thread.
Impressions (Caron Collection) is a blend of 50% silk and 50% silk. It is available in solid and hand-dyed colors. The combination of the silk and wool create a wonderful sheen. One or more strands can be used for stitching, but multiple strands must be laid so that the threads are not allowed to twist on one another. To open a skein, carefully cut the skein from the card. Untwist the skein and cut once at the knot. This will give you approximately one yard lengths. Half-hitch the thread through the card. Stitch with only half of this length to preserve the twist and sheen.

Stitching Information

The numbering sequence for the stitches are merely suggestions.

The sequence can be changed to suit the stitcher and/or the design.

Tack the canvas to stretcher bars. The tacks should be no more than one inch apart.

You may find it helpful to print the following pages at 85% or 90% scaling, if this is an option for your printer.

To facilitate printing on most computers, the Master Chart is presented in two parts:
- Upper right portion of the design
- Lower left portion of the design
Upper Border
Garland Section and Lower Border
Finishing the Ornament

Hang and enjoy!

Sue

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Last Updated November 24, 2004