This kit was a birthday gift several years ago from my good friend Marci, and I finally finished it! I brought it out at a sad time for Marci, and I hope she could feel my thoughts with her as I stitched on this sampler.
The chart for this kit is particularly clear, with excellent instructions for the speciality stitches, so even though some were unfamiliar to me, I could approach them with confidence.
I loved using the differently textured threads, although at some places, I felt the Wildflowers was a little chunky - there also wasn't enough included in the kit (grrrr...) which held up completion - I had to order them from the USA, as Caron threads are very expensive in the UK! Fortunately, there was more than enough silk included- which is very nice to work with, but I'm not sure it's worth the extra expense to use silk on a regular basis.
I haven't used the silver charm on this yet (it's gone AWOL) but I think - when I find it - I'm actually going to attach it to my charm bracelet, and use another charm for the sampler!
Design Details
Fabric: 28 count linen, natural
Threads: Gentle Art Sampler Threads, Soie Cristale, Caron Wildflowers, Perle 8 Cotton
Designer: Charland Designs
Chart Details: Bee Hive Sampler - Charland Designs (c) 2000
Stitch Count: 45H x 155V
Stitches Used: Cross Stitch, Back Stitch, Satin Stitch, Diamond Smyrna Stitch, Upright Cross Stitch, Long Arm Cross Stitch, Pulled Thread, Modified Rice Stitch, Algerian Eye Stitch, Smyrna Stitch, Cable Stitch, Pattern Darning, Mosaic Stitch, Oblong Cross Stitch.
Threads Used: GAST Soot, DMC blanc Perle 8, Soie Cristale 0057, 0079, 4003, 5004, 6043, 7061, 7063, Caron Wildflowers Moss, Golden Grain, Periwinkle
Embellishments: Sterling Silver Beehive Charm (not used)
Modifications Made: Omitted black beads - substituted Soot cross stitch. Substituted GAST Soot for WDW Charcoal. Omitted some backstitch, and changed colours on others.
2 comments:
Wow! That was AGES ago that I sent that across the pond. I still love it - and you did a fabulous job stitching it.
I found that I like Waterlillies but the Watercolours leave me wanting something more. (I think I've got the right names... Or is it Wildflowers I don't like? One of those Caron threads isn't my fav.)
Thanks for thinking of me - seeing this post brought a smile to my face as did the finished piece. Now I hope you can find the missing charm soon! To add to your charm bracelet of course!
I think it was 2003, as I was living at the old place!
When I find a suitable frame, it will go on my "bee" wall - where "Bitter Flower" and "No Bees No Honey" are currently taking pride of place :o)
Even if we don't "speak" much, you're in my thoughts often, especially at this time.
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