Tea Scene

Release date: December, 1998

Stitch count: 141H x 164W
Model stitched on: 28 count antique white Monaco from Charles Craft
Model size: 12.5" x 14.25"

Chart: computer generated
Kit: not available
Leaflet: available

Description: A colorful design featuring a whimsically flowered teapot and matching cup. Two raspberry tarts with whipped cream complete the tabletop scene; the tablecloth is edged with hardanger. The teapot's floral motif is repeated in the border, and more hardanger accents the corners.

Background Information: There is something infinitely comforting about a cup of hot tea...especially if it's brewed and served from a beautiful teapot. "A spot of tea" is a simple luxury many of us should take the time to savor more often! I found inspiration for this design from the pages of "Victoria" magazine, and "A World of Tea" on the Web. I recommend you enjoy a cup of Darjeeling or maybe Earl Grey as you stitch "Tea Scene".

Stitching Comments: I would rate this design as rather difficult: mostly because of the abundance of quarter stitches in the piece, and because of the hardanger, especially if you are unfamiliar with that technique. On the other hand, the color palette is fairly limited, so there aren't tons of blends with which to contend. Try the hardanger on fabric swatches until you are comfortable cutting threads...it only *looks* complicated. Hardanger is done in "steps" and builds in a logical manner--once you master the few basic stitches, you'll be hooked! Remember, as with any type of "cut-work", you should complete all other stitching first: save the cutting and delicate needleweaving for last to minimize distortion.

Specialty Stitches: hardanger: kloster blocks, eyelets, doves' eyes, buttonhole stitch

Important Tips: Charting Technique, Specialty Stitches

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