The age-old needlework technique of DRAWNWORK is a fresh vehicle for showcasing ribbon. And the only challenge may be finding a loosely woven linen, cotton, hopsacking, canvas or even burlap to work with. I say this because these fabrics are NOT the same thing as the even-weave fabrics available for counted cross-stitch or needlepoint. However, it’s worth the search because this simple technique can produce fine results.
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Pull out several side-by-side threads from the loosely woven fabric to create a path that equals the width of the ribbon you have chosen. The threads in this linen fabric are rather large and easy to single out. They were simply pulled using a toothpick. A small metal skewer, or crochet hook or darning needle would also work well.
- Weave the ribbon over and under the remaining exposed threads in a uniform pattern. Masking tape on the leading end of the ribbon can firm up the end, facilitating the threading.
.
.
Illustration #1 above, shows a 9” X 9” orange pillow (or sachet, or pin cushion) that is made of linen with roughly 18 threads per inch.
The 3/8” wide blue satin ribbon, May Arts #BM-04, is woven over 6 threads then under the next 6 until the course around the square is completed. Consult the photo for corner treatments. Complete the project by adding a pillow back and stuffing with batting or sachet. To create a subtle flange, before stuffing the pillow, I stitched along both edges of the ribbon. This made the central area of the pillow puff up more than the edges, giving the drawnwork a framing effect.
.
Here’s a bonus idea. Since I chose to work with a ribbon that has different colors - front and back, I could use this technique along the edges of a placemat or napkin and have a second color combination on the reverse side. See the chocolate brown side of this ribbon in Illustration # 3. Remember to stay-stitch all 4 edges to prevent unintended raveling.
.
Blog Posted By: Ellen Highsmith Silver
.
0 Comments
Make A Comment