It’s funny about the promises we make to ourselves. I always promised myself that I would keep a diary of my needlepoint. Unfortunately, the attempts I’ve made to date have not been great; but this time I am determined to succeed!
Today I begin my first Bargello Needlepoint Diary, which will take a needlepoint project from start to finish, record all the steps I take to complete the project, as well as the amount of time I will actually spend stitching it. Actually, I’m looking forward to keeping this diary; I know it will be a lot of fun and I’m committed to working on and completing this creative project own my own.
The Process
I love freeform design. What I mean by this is that I enjoy creating and designing needlepoint as I stitch. There’s just something about the trial and error of choosing a set of stitches at random on the spur of the moment that appeals to me, instead of charting it all out before I start (quite boring). Now, before you preach to me that a good designer should thoroughly plan out stitches and color, etc., just let me say that I do not aspire to be a great designer–just a creative one; so let the creative juices flow and the process evolve freely!
The Design
Oh what excitement! There are design ideas all around me. I can choose something geometric or a still life subject or just let whatever comes as the stitching happens. That’s the wonderful thing about Bargello needlepoint. You don’t have to be artistic, just inspired! There are many sources of inspiration around me-drapery and upholstery fabrics, oriental rugs, the textures in my wooden kitchen cabinets to name a few. While I can’t tell you at this point what the finished product will look like, what I can say is that I will be stitching a 14″ square pillow.
The Colors
Just like most avid needlepointers, I have a stash of colorful wool, silk, cotton and textured thread blends just waiting to be used in my newest creation. I find it relaxing to sort through the thread as I muse about which color scheme to use to make my pillow come to life.
Until Tomorrow
Tomorrow’s bargello needlepoint diary entry will discuss my color selections, canvas and stitch preparation, and a few of my favorite needlepoint gadgets.
[...] but alas, I must admit that I start more than I finish. For example, last year I started a Bargello Needlepoint Diary and managed to get through 7 stitching days of the pillow (one of my first original designs). I [...]