Sweetheart's Gate

It's finished!

I put in the final backstitch stitches last night.

There is one tiny thing that I'm disappointed about, but it's the pattern, not my stitching that is at fault.

This one took me 6 months to complete. I started it on 15th November 2008 and finished on 14th May 2009. Much faster than the last one.

I haven't got a photo yet, but I'll do that as soon as I can and update this post.

Of course this adds to the growing pile of finished work to be framed. If I could just find a good picture framer in my area ...

I've also decided what my next one will be - Butterfly Profusion.

I was reluctant to do another Dimensions kit, however I have had this one waiting for a long time, a gift from my parents a few birthdays or Christmases ago (I'm not sure which, it's been that long).

This kit has printed aida cloth, however the stitching is all counted.

It also has a new tecnique for me - blending filament. I'm still figuring out how it will work. I think it's supposed to add a glittery sheen to some areas of the stitching. I'll fill you in as I go.

Backstitch 2

Yesterday I was talking about doing the backstitch on 'Sweetheart's Gate' and how it defines areas of the stitching. The photo above is one I took last night to demonstrate how it has been working. Have a look at the 2 tree branches in the middle of the shot. The one on the left has a distinct definition as to the edge, while the one on the right just blends in with the other stitching. You can also see some of the detail in the birdhouse.

The photo below is of where I'm up to. Once I have the backstitch done on the other tree branch, I'll be scrolling the frame down to work on the lower areas, where the majority of the backstitch is to be done. Each of the flagstones in the path and the pickets on the fence is outlined, as well as details on the hats, some of the flowers and the flower pots (not shown in this photo).

Backstitch

Ok, so I haven't posted on here for a while, and I don't have any current photos.
But, I do have some news.

Just a few nights ago I finished the main stitching on 'Sweetheart's Gate' and started the backstitch.
It looks good without the backstitch, but the backstitch defines certain areas and draws things together, like leaves on the trees.

This time I'm working right to left, top to bottom. I've almost got the top section finished. Last night I was working on the birdhouse.