The Christmas Stitch
Christmas Log Carrier Ornament Judy Ignasiak
Fragrant cinnamon sticks take the place of logs in this clever Christmassy design. Tiny birds sitting on a tree surrounded by Smyrna cross-stitch snowflakes complete the design.
Skill Level: Intermediate
Materials • 9" x 8" piece 18- count light oatmeal
Fiddler’s cloth by Charles Craft* • One skein each DMC® or Sullivans®
USA six-strand embroidery floss* • Fabric-marking pencil • Size 28 tapestry needle
DMC® Sullivans®
321 45062 red
3818 45415 emerald green, ul. vy. dk.
Backstitches
597 45133 turquoise (two strands)
725 45170 topaz, med. lt.
French Knot
310 45053 black
Modified Smyrna Stitch
597 45133 turquoise
Stitch Count: 42H x 41W
Design Size: 23/8" x 21/4"
Instructions: Trace template onto scrap paper and cut out. Center template on fabric. Using fabric-marking pencil, draw around template on fabric; do not cut fabric.
Start stitching the highest snowflake about six squares down from center opening between the handle strips.
Cross stitch over one square using two strands of floss.
Backstitch over one square, using one strand of floss unless otherwise noted.
Work French knots using one strand of floss and wrapping floss around needle twice.
Work modified Smyrna stitch for snowflakes over four squares using one strand of floss.
Finishing Materials & Instructions
• 12" length red yarn
• Liquid seam sealant
• 31/2"– 4" cinnamon sticks
• Rubber band • Craft glue
• Two 3/ 16"- circumference wood dowels, cut 31/2" long
Press stitched piece from reverse side, straightening as much as possible.
Cut out design along previously traced lines.
Apply seam sealant to all edges according to manufacturer’s instructions; let dry.
Referring to photo throughout, turn each pair of fabric handle loops to inside and glue bottom edges only in place, leaving a pocket for inserting dowel; slide dowels in place as shown.
Tie handles together with yarn at center, using a double knot; knot yarn ends together at top to form hanging loop.
Bundle cinnamon sticks together and wrap with rubber band. Insert cinnamon sticks in bottom of ornament.