There were so many questions and comments about these wonderful little bags from What’s the Point? that I thought I would gab about them some more. I shot some additonal pictures so you can see them from more than one angle and will share the stitches. Fair warning stitching these bags can be very addictive…one or two of them is not nearly enough! I think that in between all these big projects that we work on that it is nice to have a small project that can be finished up quickly. Not much better than that feeling of accomplishment!
This is the background stitch that I used on the bag with the skate, called elongated cross stitch. I think that I use either 2 or 3 strands of white Splendor for this and work all of the longer cross stitches first. I love, love, love this stitch…did I say love? as it compensates with ease around all the toughest places. This is the first part of the stitch.
The second part of this stitch is the addition of a smaller cross stitch in Kreinik 032 Pearl in a #8. The stitch is very versatile as you can instead use a French knot or a bead or work the smaller cross stitch in another color thread instead of Kreinik.
The background stitch on this bag is a brick stitch and was suggested by Brenda Hart. It is a fun stitch to do…well for me anyway!
This is the first part of the stitch which again I worked in white Splendor. I am thinking that I used 3 strands as I tend to work lighter. Allot would depend on your tension and what you like. After your brick stitches are in…
Kreinik #8 in 032 Pearl is run under the stitches where the bricking meet together. A great finishing touch! Another favorite stitch of mine.
This is what the bags look like on the inside. I need to do some stash enhancement and order some more of these bags!
At 12:37am this morning I was doing the happy dance as I finally finished a piece that I have been struggling with! I am thrilled and now I start the second guessing myself, did I select the right background stitch? how about the bead color? I know the threads are a good choice, well only after about a dozen trips to buy just one more thread or look at one more bead color. The problem is when I stitch that late I have so much trouble getting to sleep. I wasn’t even able to toss and turn at all since AlleyCat was sleeping between my legs and Sylvester on my stomach. So I couldn’t disturb them…aren’t you the same way?
Speaking of AlleyCat, here she is sticking her tongue out at me. and until next time…keep on stitching
Thanks for sharing the stitches you used. The bags are so cute now i want to stitch one or two. I’m working on the first of the fab firs and am enjoying stitching using your guide. I’m so glad you and the cats are back, I missed seeing what you were stitching, what the children were doing and all the great things you share with us. I’m glad to know others go to such extremes not to disturb thie cats(children) also, since I’m typing with one sitting on my shoulder right noe.
Thank you Mary Jane! my pleasure and thank you for selecting to stitch the Fab Firs!
you don’t have to tell me twice! i did 6 of these guys and am still wanting more! love your tutorial!
Katherine…me too! I want to order more of these bags. I love ’em!
That long cross also makes excellent tree trunks. I so enjoy your work and if this actually posts it will be a miracle. I have been refused entry into your messages for a long time. With hope, I now will push the Post comment sign. You don’t have to post this because it is just a trial run.
Hi Margaret! It worked! So sorry that you have been having problems. Of course I will publish it…
I have a few of these bags, and you have inspired me to work on them. Yours are wonderful! Is the rbbon basically a satin stitch? Also, love the way they are finished. Where did you have the finishing done? I always enjoy your blog and miss it on days you don’t post. Of course, i should spend more time stitching and less time on the internet.
Thank you Susan! yes just satin stitch with River Silk Ribbon…the trick is don’t lay the thread, don’t fuss with it, just let it do it as it wishes!