The Bargello needlepoint stitch is very basic and simple. It is a single stitch made by coming up in one hole on the needlepoint canvas, crossing several threads, and going down in the next hole. Based on the design, the stitch may vary in length as low as two threads and as high as eight threads.
The neat thing about the bargello stitch is that it moves up or down the needlepoint canvas row by row until the desired design takes shape. Simple bargello designs use a 4-1 step (over four threads and one space above or below the last stitch) or 4-2 step (over four threads and two spaces above or below the last stitch).
More intricate and creative projects are made by varying the step and repeating a pattern of single and then two or more stitches side by side for a smooth or sharp effect.
In addition to the vertical stitching position, you can use the same varying lengths to stitch over horizontal threads. As you get the edge of the canvas, stitch lengths can be shortened as long as they are kept in the established pattern.
Your Turn
Have some fun with the Bargello Stitch. Cut a piece of needlepoint canvas and use a few threads from your stash to practice. When you’re finished, turn your practice piece into a coaster, napkin ring or ornament.
Your coverage is greatly increased, which can make the Bargello look so much better. If you stitch so that the maximum coverage is on the back.
This means when you are going up a line stitch from bottom to top. When you are going down a line stitch from top to bottom.
I didn’t believe it , but I tried it on a piece where the thread was kind of thin and could see the difference on the front.
Keep Stitching,
Janet
You’re absolutely right. When I stitch exactly as you suggest I do get better coverage; but if I’m lazy I usually pay for it by having to take it all out and do it right like I should have done in the first place!
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Hi there am surfing the web to try to find free patterns or one anyway to get me started on Bargello Flame Zig Zag.
I made a glass case 30 years ago in a craft class on a cruise and can’t find it!.. I just loved it.. For memory I used a light canvas maybe.. and left over tapestry wools.. not in a graded colour.. in greens.. mustards.. browns.. maybe 6 or 8 cols.. maybe the points were 1 inch?.. I can’t recall if it was just one stitch or if I did three stitches for each straight stitch. I went to the Craftfest exhibition over the week end and talked to several stall holders and mentioned Bargello didn’t know it ws flame or zig sag til I searched this morning and no one knew what I was talking about. Hope someone can help me please.. I am not sure how I find you again here… I have been clicking and cicking. Thanks… Judi
Hello Judi, this site is dedicated solely to Bargello needlepoint. Sounds like you were using the Bargello flame stitch pattern on your glass case. Check out these posts: http://bargelloneedlepoint.com/the-flame-stitch-bargello-needlepoint-pattern/ and http://bargelloneedlepoint.com/the-bargello-needlepoint-stitch/ to help you get started again. Then, if you’d like some more information, try Janet Perry at http://nuts-about-needlepoint.com. Happy Stitching
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