Northern Cardinal In Autumn
*Currently in stock - 1 copy
From the website:The third in a series of North American Birds, this pattern designed by Lesley Teare features a red cardinal surrounded with rich fall colors. Whereas many cross stitch patterns feature cardinals in winter, this pattern shows the bird in autumn, emphasizing the rich warm colors of foliage, berries and feathers.
The design skillfully mixes needlework techniques, with simple cross stitch patterns in parts, more intricate cross stitch with backstitch detail for the birds and berries, and finally the unique lace-like blackwork motifs that are the designer's signature style.
Backstitch is used differently in various parts of the design. A light touch, in one strand, is used for the tiny Blackwork motifs and cross stitch detail. Outlines however are heavier, worked in either 2 or 3 strands. To that effect, the designer suggests substituting those parts with Pearl cotton 8 or 12 used in a single strand (optional).
Like cross stitch, Blackwork is a counted thread technique, with stitches represented on a grid. A majority of stitches are backstitch, with some cross stitch filling certain areas. The chart comes with an extensive Stitching Guide detailing all stitches including fractional stitches.