The Design Process
Designing the cross stitch and duplicate stitch motifs for the Blue Tit Cushions for Scheepjes Dawn Chorus CKAL (that’s a knit- or a crochet-a-long), was tremendous fun. I had an initial image of the flying blue tit in mind and laid down the outline on a chart. Then numerous yarns were experimented with before deciding on a compatible and affordable combination. Next came my favourite part: choosing shades and working out the optimum number needed to showcase the beautiful colours of the bird. I love shuffling balls of yarn! Colour packs are fantastic for planning projects as you can see the whole collection of colours side by side and see what works well together.
Even the hours spent obsessing over the colour placement of each stitch was weirdly satisfying, especially once I’d got to the place where I was making the final tweaks.
Bonus Charts!
Missing that process, in recent weeks I’ve been collaborating with the Scheepjes team, and together we’ve come up with some bonus designs for you. These are alternative motifs that can be stitched using the contents of the Scheepjes Blue Tit Cushion Kit and the above image above is a sneak peak.
The Blue Tit Cushion CKAL begins on 17 April, when we’ll begin knitting or crocheting the cushion fronts. Then in week 2, the blue tit charts and the bonus charts will released. The heart, star and arrows (which remind me of little birdy footprints) are simpler geometric designs to appeal to anyone who prefers a bit of easy counting, or working all their stitches in rows.
I’m still #TeamBlueTit all the way (aren’t they beautiful!) but these additional designs give you options, including making all four and having a whole set of handmade cushions for your sofa!
For more info on participating in the CKAL, head over to Scheepjes.com.
Bizzymitts 