Stitching a petit point project can be a relaxing and meditative activity - or if you're using the wrong tools, it can be frustrating. This blog steps identifies some of the tools I use that keep me sane and happy when I'm spending hours creating a pillow, stocking, or other needlework item. My first piece, which took me 37 years to complete (on 44 count silk gauze), was a challenge to work on for a multitude of reasons. And when I finally finished it, blocking it was another obstacle due to the silk gauze's distortion.
After that experience, I realized I needed to obtain the right tools to make the process much easier. I stitch daily and usually over an hour at a time. I finish the items myself and don't want to spend excessive time blocking and re-blocking to get them square. I also don't have the vision I had when I was 18 - or even 48 - and find that the proper magnifier makes such a difference.
Frames
When I worked that unicorn petit point, I didn't use a frame at all. When I decided to add petit point to my ViVi's Minis portfolio, I initially used an embroidery hoop. I found that it was difficult to keep the material tight and squared - neither linen nor silk gauze stayed in place. I use the push-and-poke method of stitching which reduces distortion but the pressure of my fingers under the fabric still led to tension issues.
I decided to switch to stretcher bars and have been very pleased with the results. I have several sets that I keep in continuous use - one 6" square (two sets of 6" bars), one 6" by 8", and one 11" square that I use for rugs. Amazon carries numerous options that show up if you search "stretcher bars for needlework."
The most highly recommended and sought after, yet difficult to obtain, is Evertite stretcher bars. These bars are made in America by a small company and suppliers have difficulty maintaining stock. Evertite bars have a unique corner bolt mechanism that enables you to increase tension on your project without having to adjust your tacks. They aren't cheap and they aren't inexpensive - but they will last you forever.
Excellent quality stretcher bars from Edmunds are my favorites, mostly because I haven't been able to find Evertite bars in smaller sizes. I purchased my 6" sets from KC Needlepoint but you can buy 7" sets through Amazon. Remember that you need to buy two sets to create one frame.
In addition to the frames themselves, you'll need to purchase brass tacks to attach the material to the wood. Again, Amazon has many options; just search "brass tacks for needlepoint stretcher bars." Years ago, I purchased the Lacis Corjac combo pack from a local needlework shop. It contains a magnetized push handle for inserting the tacks and a small crowbar-shaped device for pulling the tacks. Although some of the tacks themselves have weakened and bent over time, getting replacement tacks through Amazon is fairly easy.
Needles
I offer four different stitch-per-inch sizes of linen and two sizes of silk gauze. A size 28 tapestry needle, made by nearly any manufacturer, will work for all but the 60 count silk gauze. To prevent the gauze from warping, you'll want to use size 12 sharps. If you can find them, I recommend John James needles; they are far less likely to bend during use. Amazon carries the size 12 sharps and DMC size 28 tapestry needles.
Magnification
Depending on your individual abilities, some of the smaller materials can be quite difficult to see. I use a 12x magnifying glass with light and clamp. This device allows me to see the linen or silk through the magnifier but also read the pattern on the side. I've tried - and do not like - the version with an extra magnifier embedded in the glass. The additional 1" diameter glass is not easy for me to focus on the canvas and it gives me a headache.
I hope this information has been helpful! Please drop a line and let me know if there are any other tools you have found to be helpful, or if you have questions or comments regarding the ones I've listed.
0 comments