Heart-shaped motifs alternate with small diamonds in this Bargello design to make a bold pattern.
An optical illusion is also made when using carefully graded shades of colored threads (6 for the hearts, and 3 for the diamonds). For an even more spectacular effect, try changing the direction of the shading.
The hearts and diamonds Bargello embroidery pattern has a 4-2 step (see pp. 82-83 in Bargello: An Explosion In Color by Margaret Boyles).
The full effect of the optical illusion can be seen on the cover of the book.
Althea, these daily projects have captivated me, so much so that I tracked down a copy of the Boyles book, and it arrived yesterday. One thing I’ve particularly appreciated is your use of other fibers and threads, which gives this traditional and beautiful technique a contemporary feel. I’m going to use bargello as the background for a Christmas stocking, and then I’m starting an all-Bargello project. Thanks again for the inspiration. Robin