Here is another advanced Florentine design. At first it may appear to be extremely complicated to work; but closer inspection of the pattern yields the key to stitching success.
Found on pp. 116-117 in Bargello: An Explosion In Color by Margaret Boyles, this 6-1 step Bargello pattern is worked using stitches in two lengths.
The designer suggested working the outline stitches for the medallions first; and then filling them in. I found that the key to stitching a 3″ square sample that would showcase all aspects of the pattern, was to stitch the outline of parading diamonds first, followed by the white outline.
I used the recommended colors: white for the outline, three shades of green for the medallions, rust, dark orange and cream for the diamonds that parade across the center of the Bargello design. I suppose you could stitch the design without the parading diamonds; but they lend such a stimulating effect.
Madeira’s Mouline Egyptian Cotton Hand Embroidery Thread was used to stitch most of the design. Silk n’ Ivory was used for the white outline.
Interesting Tidbit about Bargello An Explosion In Color
 | Bargello An Explosion In Color includes clear instructions on everything from threading a needle to creating your own original bargello designs. Purchase the book here. |
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