© Rachael Kinnison/Carol-Anne Conway
There are several factors to mastering a stitch or technique (not that I am claiming to be a master of anything).
The first is understanding the method. For me, the ideal way to learn a new stitch or technique is to have someone who knows it well demonstrate it. If that is not an option, I am able to manage with well-written instructions.
The second is practice, there really is no substitute. The more you practice, the better you get!
As mentioned in my previous post, the right tools can make a big difference and this can be something as simple as using a suitable needle.
Increasingly, I believe that understanding the thread you are using is fundamental.
The wrapped Ceylon stitch is worked in gilt passing thread In this design. Passing thread consists of a fine wire wrapped around a thread core. It feels like a wire but does not behave as a drawn wire would. We naturally twist the thread as we stitch adding or reducing overtwist to the thread which causes the thread to twist or buckle. I treat passing thread like any other twisted thread and twizzle the needle to maintain the correct overtwist throughout.
Passing threads are both expensive and delicate. For this reason, it is often couched to the surface of the fabric. When it is stitched, it is generally used for stitches that are predominantly on the surface. Wrapped Ceylon stitch is worked in two stages. First, the Ceylon stitch or ladder stitch is worked. This shows mostly on the surface with short parallel stitches on the reverse. The second step is to wrap the rungs of the ladder. Except for starting and fastening of the thread, this is worked entirely on the surface.
© Rachael Kinnison/Carol-Anne Conway
Happy Stitching
