Yes, I am a day early this month!
You see, after a wonderful day out on the bike with Mr E, I have succumbed to a head cold. My nose is doing a wonderful impression of a dripping tap right now, and I have a sinking feeling that the next few days will see me laid low.
Therefore, I thought I'd share Block 9 of my free BOM for 2012, "Promises & Borders" a day early.
I love this verse, and as it is such a simple and straightforward promise, I thought a simple border would be perfect.
James 4:8
You can download Block 9 HERE on my free BOM page.
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I get a lot of emails asking me how I stitch wording to look as though it's been hand written.
Well, first of all, let me say 'thank you' for all your sweet compliments on my stitching. You are all very kind.
Let me encourage you, now!
Anyone can stitch wording well. Here are my tips...
* Use just one strand of thread in a colour dark enough that the verse can be read.
* Sew with tiny stitches.
* Don't rush your stitches. Most of the untidy backstitching I've seen had been made by people who are rushing through their embroidery and doing larger and larger stitches so they can finish quicker and start on their next project.
* If you want a project to look lovely, take your time with it.
*
If it's not looking good, UNPICK it. Seriously, I do not hesitate to
unpick a stitch that's too long, or hasn't stayed on the traced line. It's worth it in the end!
Look at this one I've done below to show you how untidy a stitch can be when it's not made in the same hole as the stitch below. (Click on the photo to enlarge it)
I unpicked that stitch.
When I made the stitch again, I made sure my stitches all understood they must share their entry and exit holes. Now the 'w' has lovely curves!
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So basically, it's as simple as this. When you make a backstitch, you must return the needle to the same hole you made with the previous stitch.
You must not have any gaps between each of the stitches in a letter...
...and you must keep your stitching right on top of your traced line so that when you finish, all you see are the neat stitches flowing together.
I hope that has helped those who asked.
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Now, it's time to take my box of these...
...and go to bed with a good audio book and some hand sewing.
Hopefully this head cold will pass quickly, as I want to enjoy the next two weeks with Mr E home on holidays.
Hugs
Jenny
xx