When speaking of Bargello Needlepoint heirlooms, most people talk about needlepointed dining or Queen Anne chairs and ottomans that they’ve seen in a museum. Some have even been lucky enough to have these kinds of items handed down through the generations as part of an estate. But, a Bargello needlepoint heirloom doesn’t have to be a collector’s item or museum piece. It can be any item stitched with a Bargello design that will be treasured by others in the future.
The age and condition of the Bargello needlepoint make it an heirloom. Unique and original hand-stitched items that are functional or decorative are great examples; and if they have been signed and dated by the designer or stitcher, you have a rare find indeed.
To stitch your own Bargello needlepoint heirloom, you MUST use high quality materials including threads and canvas. The reason why Bargello needlepointed chairs have endured throughout the centuries is because they were stitched with the highest quality wool that could be found at that point.
Tips for Stitching Heirloom Bargello Needlepoint
— Use a professional finisher to make your project heirloom quality. After investing so much time and energy into stitching a family heirloom, it’s worth it to use a finisher who will use museum quality materials and finishing techniques.
— Store your finished needlepoint in acid-free tissue when not in use to keep away moths and minimize wear and tear. This will also protect thread colors from fading, and dust and grime from collecting on the needlepoint.
— Include your name or initials and the date on all finished needlework—especially those pieces you deem to be family heirlooms. It’s nice when a grandchild picks up an heirloom Christmas ornament or pillow and can see that a beloved grandma stitched it.
Choose Bargello needlepoint patterns that fit the occasion and the person who will receive it. Don’t worry if it will become an heirloom. Most of the time, heirlooms do not start out with such an intention. They are just passed from one generation to the next as a memorial to the person who stitched them.
I think Bargello is much more elegant when stitched on Penelope canvas. If stitched on monofil, the wool used for bargello needs to be at least a third thicker than for Penelope canvas. Stitching bargello is different from regular canvas weave and certain precautions need to be observed if the bargello is to be sturdy and lasting. It is, for example, vastly important to anchor strongly the first stitch and the last stitch of a needleful. Equally important is to cover both sides of the canvas with wool. Happy stitching!
Dominique,
Thanks for the Bargello tips. It’s great to have additional information on Bargello essentials.
Althea
No problem. It is my pleasure. Great Web site and resource you have here.
Dominique