Stitching over one has become very popular, and for me, it was a mistake I made when learning to stitch on linen. My aunt Mary gave me a monogram kit that came with a piece of linen. It didn't have directions, so I started stitching over one thread (I was probably 13 and had only ever stitched on Aida at that point). When I got part way done with the design, I compared it to the picture on the front, and thought, "That looks awfully small." I ended up putting it down, sure I had made a mistake. It took me another couple of years to get to stitching on linen and even-weaves, and I did eventually finish that piece over-two.

Did you know Maureen Appleton at The Heart's Content made the same mistake, and has never stitched over two? Ruth Sparrow is releasing a lot of really cute over-one designs, and honestly, everything looks cuter over-one.

If you've never stitched over-one, start by working on a count you're comfortable with. If you normally work on 28 count, you will still be able to see the holes if you stitch over-one. The fabric hasn't changed; the stitches have. Also, some over-one stitchers prefer even weave fabrics like Brittney or Jobelan, instead of linen. The consistency of the fibers makes sure your cross stitches are all the same size. I personally like the flubs and nubs of linen, even when they're obvious, but it's a matter of personal preference. Remember when you're calculating fabric size that instead of 14 stitches per inch, it'll be 28 (for example). You'll need a much smaller piece of fabric.

You don't have to use a "designed for over-one" piece. Almost anything can be stitched over-one. I like to choose designs that don't have a lot of color switches or backstitching. I also don't tend to use designs that have 1/4 or 3/4 stitches when stitching over-one. But you can use designs which call for Sampler Threads or Weeks Dye Works, or your favorite silk flosses.

I work in my Q-Snaps when stitching over-one. It keeps the fabric nice and taut, and holds the holes open (especially if I'm working on a tighter weave.) Since your piece isn't going to be very big, you really won't have to move your Q-Snaps or hoop around much.

I find that the stitches lay nicely if you stitch one stitch at a time backwards (from right to left.) This way, you get a nice solid pattern across the back, under which you can secure your ends. Also, the stitches won't slip under every other thread on the fabric; they hold in place much better.

The number of strands you use will depend on the count fabric you've chosen. Experiment with a few stitches before you start. Generally, one strand is going to cover well on 28 count and finer fabrics. I have also heard that if you use TWO strands, you can get by with making just a tent stitch (like a needlepoint stitch, or basically half a cross stitch) instead of crossing back over. This will cut your stitching time in half, still cover the fabric, and no one will be able to tell.

If your walls are filling up, consider making smaller pieces. These can be framed, but they also make neat ornaments, door hangers, pincushions, knick-knacks and what-nots.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving and November, folks. After Halloween tonight, I'm expecting a severe Snickers hangover (I hear those are best treated with more of the same.)

Boo!

© 2007 Theresa Venette. Articles on this site may be reproduced in needlework group newsletters or other handouts with permission of author and proper attribution. Send questions, comments and suggestions to: xspeddler@yahoo.com