Today we would like to share a few tips on using leftover threads for your next project!
As any stitcher knows, we ALL have a stash of “bits” from previous projects. If you are like me, these thread lengths vary, some short and some much longer, which can inspire creativity in your stitching. Limited thread colours can challenge you to create unique colour combinations and designs, making each project one-of-a-kind. We encourage you to think outside the box and experiment with different stitching techniques and patterns.
Believe it or not, using leftover threads can be a great way to create a cohesive look across multiple projects – the uniqueness of using different threads can surprisingly bring a series of projects together. For instance, reusing leftover threads is a perfect approach when creating a series of pieces, like a set of wall hangings or a collection of ornaments.
This can also be an excellent way to honour the history and sentimentality of your threads. If you’ve inherited threads from a loved one or have a collection of vintage threads, incorporating them into your needlepoint projects can be a way to keep their memory alive and create something meaningful and beautiful in their honour.
Over the years, we’ve tried to provide you with various ideas and projects to use up these bits, and today is another new project.
Merry Polka Dot Tree was featured in the November/December 2021 issue of Needle Pointers. The talented Ada Haydon designed it and, as expected, quite colourful! If you are unfamiliar with Needle Pointers, it is the American Needlepoint Guild publication.
The original design is a triangular shape mimicking a tree, but we opted to modify this design creating a square. Our sample measures 3 ½ inches square on 18-count canvas, BUT you could make this any size you wish. Instead of leaving the canvas to show through as designed, we have switched this up a bit and added Colour #45 in the background.
Remember, the idea here is to use leftover threads, so A LOT of colours are used in this sample.
Why not experiment and see what you come up with? If you are short of threads, visit the SHOP to add to your stash.
