Expert: Kris - 8/18/2007

Question
I have completed the cross stitch part of a Southern Magnolias pattern.  Now
there is the outlining, which I really don't like to do but I am doing it.  There
are also a considerable number of "twigs" both inside the cross stitching and
extending outside.  I also don't like doing this but it is proving to be much
harder to do because it curves & loops within the flowers and leaves and the
actual piece is much smaller than the printed pattern so the back stitcking
used for the twigs is looking disjointed and messy.  Is there a technique for
this type of finishing?  In the picture on the brochure the effect is very pretty
but  my stitches are not pretty.

Answer
Jo Ella,

I have a love/hate relationship with backstitching myself. So you are not alone. When you are actually working the backstitching it will look disjointed. Try stepping back from the piece and looking at it. The stitching will look softer from a distance. The other trick is not to pull your stitches too tight. Also try using only one thread for backstitching so that it isn't too bulky.

There really isn't much more you can do. I hope this has been helpful.

Happy Stitching!
Kris