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.
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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.
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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.
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Blog Posted By: Ellen Highsmith
Silver
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Don’t Forget To Check Out This Week’s Contest: Ribbons Of Christmas Past!
