Eye of the Forest

The 3-D effect of this intricate piece of Hardanger is achieved by using two pieces of linen— one piece for stitching and one to serve as background fabric, with a layer of thin quilt batting in between. Silk thread, DMC floss and Mill Hill beads work in harmony to create a stunning piece of art.

Design by Janet Bryant-Groves of Krafty Kat Designs

Skill Level: Advanced (Hardanger Experience Suggested) Stitch Count: 62H x 84W Design Size: 41/8" x 53/4"

Materials

• 10" x 12" piece 28- count wheat Lugana from Zweigart®

• One skein each DMC® or Sullivans® USA six-strand embroidery floss

• One skein The Thread Gatherer Silken Pearl SP10

• One package Mill Hill Antique Seed Beads

• Beading needle

• Off-white sewing thread

• Size 24 tapestry needle

Instructions

Work Kloster blocks over four threads using one strand 012.

Work horizontal, vertical and diagonal satin stitch using one strand 012.

Work buttonhole stitch over four threads using one strand 012.

Work eyelet stitch over four threads using two strands 926/45270.

Work cross stitch over two threads using two strands 3858/45456.

Work herringbone stitch over two threads using two strands 3858/45456.

Work running stitch over two threads using two strands 926/45270.

Attach beads using 1/2 cross stitch and one strand off-white sewing thread going through bead twice.

Finishing Materials & Instructions

• Mat board

• Thin cotton batting or felt

• 28- count wheat Lugana

• Crochet thread or glue

• Straight pins

• Coordinating sewing thread

• 5" x 7" Distressed Blue Wood Frame #1206325 from Hobby Lobby

Press stitched piece from reverse side, straightening as much as possible. Trim stitched piece around the buttonhole border, being careful not to cut any stitches. Set aside.

Cut piece of thin batting or felt to fit within the Kloster-block area.

Cut mat board to desired size, depending on the size of frame you choose. ( If you will have the piece professionally framed, consult the framer to determine the correct size of mat board.) Cut Lugana to 11/2" larger than mat board. Place thin batting or felt on mounting board in the area to be covered by the stitched piece. Cover mat board with Lugana and lace to back of mounting board with crochet thread; you may glue excess fabric to back of board as an alternative to lacing.

Center trimmed stitched piece over Lugana (where the batting/felt was placed) and pin in place. Using a handsewing needle, carefully sew edges of stitched piece to Lugana. Remove pins.

Place in desired frame or take piece to professional framer.