Spiralling Onward
Continuing The Spiral
Since I’ve received so many comments – and additional e-mails! – asking me to post more about Christus Natus Est, I’ve decided to post about it more frequently than I originally intended.
Progress has slowed somewhat as the spiral gets larger, with ever-longer sections of the close silken stitching. Since I’m using two shades of blue at present, the blue of the Madonna’s robe involves three different threads, which means that every time I feel I’ve settled into a rhythm, I have to stop and change to another thread.
I’ve already had to reposition the fabric on the frame, since the constant close stitching had stretched it slightly. It’s much easier to work this style when the fabric is absolutely taut, so I expect that this will become a regular activity!
You’ve probably noticed that the Christ Child’s halo has a somewhat sawn-off look, and that I’ve not continued the Madonna’s halo over her robe. In both cases, this is because I have taken note of what one of the books I’ve been reading has told me – it is not difficult to add stitches to an or nué piece, but it is near-impossible to take them out. I’m not certain that I want the halos to spread over the robes, so until I’ve decided that, they won’t. I’m happy to go back over the piece tidying up when I’ve finished, so that is how it will be done.
Maybe the halo could be represented on the blue robe with pale blue stitches, and pink stiches on the red?
Just a thought.
It’s exciting to watch my design develop in this its third incarnation -it’s going to be gorgeous!
Oh Rachel, this is going to be gorgeous! Your stitching is exquisite. I certainly know what you mean when you talk about having to stop for thread changing – but guess its all part of the process.
Yes – it’s fabulous and will be beautiful once it’s finished!
Interesting process, thank you; exquisitely worked.
Wow! Amazing! This is going to be worthy of a really special frame and lighting so the gold shimmers as you walk past.
Rachel, this is wonderful….and your determination to finish the glove is the kind I need to get organised and get my cupboards sorted out, any to spare????
Looking gorgeous! Are you planning to do the whole thing in or nué, or is that a state secret at present…? I can imagine selected circles, and I can also imagine it going right up to the square edges, but then you would have to keep finishing off and starting again where the circle goes off the edge of the piece. Your mum’s original is beautiful, and this will be, too.
I’m really pleased you’re going to be posting more on this project – it’s fascinating!
I’ve never done this stitch before so your words of wisdom were very helpful.
“it is not difficult to add stitches to an or nué piece, but it is near-impossible to take them out.”
Thanks for sharing your process AND your wise words.