Following is a basic design which can be easily altered in
appearance several ways:
1. by changing colors
2. by changing threads
3. by changing the filling pattern in part of the design
Here are two variations. Try others on your own.
MATERIALS
His Version Her Version
8x10" 14ct Lincoln
from Zweigart 8x10" 14 ct Lincoln from Zweigart
#20 & 22 tapestry needles #22 tapestry needle
1 skein each Wildflowers 1 skein each Impressions
032 Passion ---7005 Blue
083 Pine Forest 135 Adobe
1 card Antica, AT 7. Copper 1 10 yd card Candlelight, D15,
Aqua
GETTING STARTED
Optional:Print out the full sized outline of the Xmas sock
which follows. Center it under your fabric, making sure that
you line up the top edge of the stocking with a single horizontal
fabric thread. With a permanent fine line pen, lightly trace
the outline of the Xmas sock on your fabric. This will save a
lot of counting. Begin stitching at the upper edge of the stocking
and work the design to the outlines. This may mean that you will
have more or fewer stitches than shown on the diagram and shouldn't
be a cause for worry.
Click here for Xmas
Sock Outline
If you prefer to work directly from the chart, mark the center
of the fabric. Count the number of threads to your starting point.
Please note that the outline shown on the chart is not to be
stitched. It is a guideline only to help in placing your stitches.
Mount the fabric on a frame or hoop. I like to use stretcher
strips, available at art stores, so I can see the entire working
area at one time.
STITCHING THE DESIGN
Work the smaller borders of the cuff entirely in cross stitch,
using the threads and colors indicated in the chart of your choice.
If you prefer, substitute your own choice of colors and threads.
For added interest, you can stitch the leaves in Detached Chain,
as we've done in the His version.
Hint: Rather than stitching the berries in horizontal rows,
try working them in a spiral for a better effect.
Work the Upright Crosses in the large band of the cuff with
the appropriate metallic. If you're using Antica, it is easier
to stitch with if a needle with a larger eye than usual is used.
Stitch the stylized pine trees in cross stitch, per Chart
I, using the main color of Wildflowers or Impressions.
Stitch the "ornaments" on the trees. For HIS use
Passion Wildflowers. For HERS use the Candlelight. Note that
the placement of the ornaments is different on each stocking.
The "trees" which fill in the remaining spaces are
different in each design. See the charts below.
For HIS, oblong cross stitches are worked down the center
of the space and the branches are formed with diagonal satin
stitches spaced according to the chart. These diagonal stitches
can be replaced with cross stitches worked in diagonal rows if
you prefer. On our model we've used Passion Wildflowers and Copper
Antica in alternating diagonal bands (see photo of finished piece).
Click here for Chart II
 |
Diagram
5 |
For HERS, cross stitches are used and are worked in zigzag
rows to simulate drooping branches
Click here for Chart II
FINISHING
Make a full lining and backing (see instructions). Assemble
and trim with cord made from the leftover threads. Add a tassel
if desired.
SPECIAL
Here are some additional ideas for fillings. Experiment with
your own ideas.
Click here for Chart III
