Christmas bauble
Hexagonal parts
This article describes the 8 hexagonal pieces that form part of this project.
For this, I decided to work on two different designs, Holly, and Mistletoe, symbols if ever there were for vegetal decorations at Christmas time.
To achieve this, I’ve chosen to pay particular attention to the depth of these embroideries, mainly (and unusually) using 2-thread and various non-traditional materials such as wool or “string,” pearls, and metallic threads in various colors.
As for the colors used, while I’m sticking to the Christmas tones of red and green, I urge you to put your stash to good use, because, like me, I’m sure you’ll discover some forgotten treasures…
At the end of the article, you’ll find pictures of everything I used to make these 2 patterns… maybe it’ll give you some ideas!
Holly
The branch is embroidered in 1-thread long and short stitch and the leaves in 2-thread close fly stitch. I added a few straight stitches in metallic thread to bring light to this part of the design.
These large leaves are made in fishbone stitch with 2 threads in various shades of green. The reverse sides of the motif are embroidered in straight stitch with 2 threads, and I’ve added a central vein in metallic thread stem stitch.
The berries are embroidered in traditional 1-thread satin stitch but in different shades of red. A small 2-thread, 1-wrap French knot in each fruit completes the design.
Mistletoe
The branches are embroidered in long and short stitch with 1 thread.
The leaves are embroidered with 2-thread satin stitch in two contrasting shades of green.
To embroider these berries, I chose a fine Aubusson wool of which I have many leftovers. I made large French knots with 2 strands of wool and 2 wraps using a large needle (chenille 22). I then attached them with a small bead in the center. For the bow, I used an irregular “string” which I tied on the lines of the motif with a couching thread.
Here are the various materials used for this work
