Bohemian Finish and a Halloween Start

Hi, everyone! I finished my Bohemian Paisley embroidery last Saturday. I tried to wash the fabric to get rid of the ink, but alas it is permanent. My next project is Potions, Brews, and Spells by Cherished Stitches. On Sunday I had ironed my fabric and stitched two numbers to get started so when Friday rolled around I wouldn't have to fuss with getting the fabric ready.

By the end of last night's stitching, I had stitched an entire row and was hoping to complete the queen stitch between the 'T' and 'Z' row, but I'm hopelessly confused on how to stitch the queen stitch despite the diagram at the back of the Just Cross Stitch magazine that has this pattern in it.

I think two factors are aiding one another to thwart me: the high stitch count (35ct....which is high for me as I usual stitch on 32ct or less) and the dark color of the fabric. Neither of the photos show the color exactly. It's 35ct dolphin by Week's Dye Works.

How do ladies/gents work on higher stitch counts than 35?!?!? It boggles my mind!

After stitching yesterday I realized that despite my Ott light, I need to invest in a magnifier because I am having a hard time seeing the stitches. Also in order for me to figure out the queen stitch, I need to pull out a scrap of linen with a lower stitch count and practice......a linen I can actually see! LOL

Anyway, I hope you guys had a good Friday Frolic :)

Until next time ^___^

Bohemian Paisely Embroidery Frolic

Can embroidery count as part of the Friday Frolicking? I hope so because it is my Friday Frolic project at the moment.

I started this kit by Plaid Bucilla last Saturday as my 'Friday' Frolic project for the month. It is my fun break away from crocheting.

I bought the kit from Joann's Fabric with a 50% off coupon so it was only $3.50. You can't beat that price for a fun project to try out your embroidery skills on :)

I made progress by filling in the satin stitch areas, doing some outline stitches around the French knots, and attempting to stitch some lazy daisies. I don't know why, but I've never been a fan of the lazy daisy stitch. When I stitch one, it never seems as 'full' as what is pictured on my design.

If I try to leave them bigger, it seems like the stitch isn't secure so I pull the stitch tighter. I'm seriously considering pulling out those stitches and satin stitching those areas.

Does anyone in the Frolic group work on embroidery designs? If so, do you have any tips for lazy daisy stitches? Is it supposed to be a loose stitch?

After a few more weeks of frolicking, I should have this project finished. My next project for the Frolicking Fridays will be a Halloween design from last years JCS Halloween magazine as I had purchased the fabric and threads for it back in October.

Until next time ^____^