The cross stitch model was for my Mom, but to needlepoint it into a pillow is pure me.
First I converted the thread colours of the pink ribbons to wool, and once they were stitched I hit a little snag. The cross stitch model was stitched on 32ct Lugana "Pink Whisper", a beautifully pale hand-dyed pink. In needlepoint the background needs to be filled in, and there is no wool colour close to that fabric colour. To further complicate things, the palest pink wool shade available I had already used. So I decided to turn my attention to the border, until I could sort my background dilemma. This then made me think about the words - Mother, Sister, Wife.... When I first started this needlepoint I thought of using a Perle Cotton #8 to backstitch the words, but backstitching over the Continental Stitch is not the easiest. So the idea of charting them into full stitches and stitching them around the perimeter as the border hit me,
but I also love the existing interlocking ribbon border. The interlocking ribbons are to signify all of us interwoven with one another in supporting those in our lives conflicted with cancer and in our combined efforts, prayers and hopes to finding a cure. So because of all these options tumbling around and fermenting in my head I have not been able to put needle to canvas. Awww the torment!!!! - will I ever get this all sorted and actually get back to stitching.
As a result of all of this, this is how my needlpoint looks today, and has done for a few weeks, I think I have it almost all figured out - and I can finally get back to stitching.
I'll keep you informed on my progress, if you wish?
I really like the border, however, it looks like little memorial crosses - is that your intention?
ReplyDeleteLooks lovely so far. Wondering if a knit-type wool might work from Linda's for the pink background?
ReplyDeleteMust it look like your original work, or might a light yellow to signify all types of cancer work as in The Cancer Society's colours. Just a thought.
ReplyDeleteSince you almost have it all figured out, I won't waste brain cells in trying to come up with a solution for you, but be sure to let us know when you're ready! Nothing wrong with the pillow having a bit of a different feel than the cross stitched piece. You have a good eye, so I'm sure the end result will look fabulous!
ReplyDeleteNever noticed the crosses in the border since I was looking at ribbons. Interesting ....
Barbara
Thank you all for your input. I had thought of all your suggestions as well. It's nice to know that others are on the wavelength.
ReplyDelete