Whitework
Satin Stitch

jeanfarish.com

This diagram shows a portion of the second band. It is a repeat pattern, shown in detail on the stitch diagram under the chart on the previous page. In the instructions below I use the word thread to mean the linen threads in your fabric. I use the word fiber to mean the "thread" you use for stitching. For this project, use a single strand of pearl cotton for this band.
First Step: Work left-to-right.

Begin with three satin stitches. Each one is six threads high. You will stitch in between linen threads. Do not skip any.

Next, make six satin stitches that are three threads high, placed just like the ones marked "1" on the diagram, above.

Make six satin stitches that are six threads high, followed by six satin stitches that are three threads high.

Continue this repeat pattern until you reach the center. There you must make seven satin stitches that are six threads high for the pattern

  to be the same width as the band of cross stitch flowers above it. (This is called a "compensating" stitch.)

As you move past the center, return to the sets of six satin stitches, alternating between those that are three threads high and six threads high.

To complete the first step for this band, make three satin stitches that are six threads high.

Second Step: Work right-to-left.

You will now fill in the satin stitches that are three threads high under the completed ones.

 Do not cut your thread! Instead, flip your fabric over and slip your needle under the last three stitches. Now, make the stitches marked "2" in the diagram above. Each time you get to the satin stitches that are six threads high, slip your needle under the back of them to get to the place to make the next set of stitches.

Make sure you are pulling the stitches to create the pattern shown in the photo. It may take some practice, but the effort will be worth it to create this delicate open lacy band.

To begin and end your stitching fiber, read the primer on pulled thread work.
Copyright 2002 by Jean Roberts Farish.  All rights reserved. This band and the bands to complete the "Blessings" sampler are offered as a complimentary chart to the subscribers of this newsletter to create no more than 12 completed works for their own use or as gifts. Other uses are prohibited without written consent. Non-subscribing stitchers are encouraged to subscribe to this newsletter which gives implicit permission to join us in stitching this project.