In bargello needlepoint, the first row usually establishes the pattern. Once you stitch it, all other rows follow the same pattern and are worked either above or under the initial row. To keep the bargello design intact, follow the pattern instructions closely and carefully count each stitch on the first row; or a mistake here will carry through into the remaining rows and ruin the bargello project.
Mark the horizontal and vertical centers of the blank needlepoint canvas with a waterproof felt tip pen, and unless otherwise instructed by the pattern, work the first bargello pattern row from this point.
Stitch the bargello design over the entire bottom half of the needlepoint canvas first; and then turn it around so that the bottom is now the top to complete the remaining section. By stitching from the center to the bottom, you'll be able to keep previously worked areas clean and free from snags.
In most cases there is no need to block bargello needlepoint projects after they have been finished. To avoid minor canvas distortion during stitching, mount the bargello project on stretcher bars before you begin.
If you make a bargello pattern mistake, it should be ripped out and corrected as soon as you spot it. To rip out a mistake, simply pick out each stitch with the point of the tapestry needle to a few stitches before the mistake was made, and then make the correction.
Thanks for the needlepoint tips. H5
Thanks for your interest. Yes, I have a blog. Please visit http://bargelloneedlepoint.com to get instructions on how to learn bargello needlepoint, plus loads of pictures and free patterns.
I'm so impressed. I started a needlepoint once (have done tons of cross stitch in days of yore) but never finished it. Do you have a blog or other articles with photos of finished pieces you've done? I would love to see them!
select one here...