Every stitcher has a “threshold project,” that one piece of work that completely changes their creative direction. For me, that moment was discovering the architectural beauty of Lorene Salt’s geometric canvas work patterns. Lorene is a Canadian designer whose work transcends traditional needlepoint, turning the canvas into a playground of mathematical symmetry and textural depth.

At a Glance: How Lorene Salt Influences Needlepoint

• Design Heritage: A Canadian designer and educator
• Technical Variety: Features a wide array of stitches, including Bargello, crescent petals, and flower clusters.
• The “Shockwave” Spark: The specific project that transitioned my own journey from crazy quilting to the world of counted canvas.
• Beginner-Friendly: Despite their complex look, these designs are a masterclass in learning new decorative stitches.

A Journey of Transformation

As many of you likely know, I did not take up needlepoint (specifically counted canvas) until I was introduced to it by a customer back in 2014. My needlework journey actually began in the eclectic, free-form world of crazy quilting.

Everything changed when I was introduced to counted canvas designs and further inspired discovering Lorene Salt’s designs. She initially offered Shockwave as a beginner canvas work correspondence course through the Embroidery Association of Canada, and I was fortunate enough to take the class at that time.

Have you ever picked up a project that felt like it was finally speaking your creative language?

For me, that was Shockwave. It was only my second project in this style, but the logic and beauty of the stitches had me hooked immediately.

Architecture for the Canvas

Lorene’s geometric canvas work patterns are like architecture for the canvas. This particular pattern is designed on 18-count mono canvas, sized at 9×9.

In these project, you’ll find a fascinating mix of techniques:

• Bargello and Crescent Petals: Creating sweeping, rhythmic movement.
• Flower Clusters: Adding 3D “pops” of interest.
• Corner Detail: Each of the four corners utilizes a different selection of stitches—straight, diagonal, cross, tied, looped, and decorative.

This diversity makes her patterns an excellent choice for a beginner. They provide an ideal learning opportunity to add to your personal library of new stitches within a single, structured design.

The Synergy of Design and Palette

While I used a different palette for my original Shockwave project, a new addition like Colour #193 (our aqua, blue, and purple blend) would make an excellent focal colour for this project. By using it to anchor a broader palette of varying blue and purple values, you can create a piece that feels both tranquil and sophisticated.

I am so pleased to support a fellow Canadian designer. Whether you are looking for your first “threshold project” or your fiftieth, Lorene’s work highlights elegance in needle arts and hand-dyed threads. Her geometric patterns allow variegated colours to shine without losing the integrity of the design.

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We are so excited to share that Needlepoint Now featured Bargello Bulbs, our latest needlepoint design, in the November/December 2023 issue! We’ve showcased this Bargello Medallion pattern in a rich, autumn-inspired warm colour palette that is perfect for any year-round needlepoint project.

The Design Behind Bargello Bulbs & Technique Used

This ornamental bulb design was stitched using traditional Bargello stitching techniques. If you aren’t familiar with the “Bulb” shape, think of it as a rhythmic flow of stitches; while many patterns use sharp peaks, this one uses “stepping” to create a beautiful, curved ornamental look.

The warm threads we chose range from golden yellows to cranberry reds. These create a vibrant appearance that makes the entire pattern “pop.” We also used some cool tones to create balance and add real visual depth to the design. However, the intensity and “main star of the show” features Colour #188, which is a gorgeous and very popular blend of our hand-dyed fall tones!

Why Hand-Dyed Floss?

For this project, using hand-dyed floss is what truly creates the magic. Because the colours transition naturally within the strand, the thread does the hard work of shading for you. This is a great “no-fuss” solution for crafters who want a professional, artistic look without the stress of picking dozens of different solid colours.

You don’t need to be an expert stitcher to create something timeless. Using high-quality, unique materials like Colour #188 ensures your project looks like an heirloom from the very first stitch.

The Warm Colour Palette Used

Our Bargello Bulbs sample measures 4×4 inches and was stitched on 18-count canvas. At Colour Complements, we love using smaller canvas sizes! It gives us the opportunity to stitch up beautiful patterns quickly and see the results of the vibrant colours right away.

The colours used in this particular pattern are a blend of vibrant shades consistent with the tones featured in Colour #188. Four of our hand-dyed threads are featured in the sample:

• Colour #18
• Colour #37
• Colour #187
• Colour #188

Find the full design in the November/December 2023 issue of Needlepoint Now if you would like to stitch this design. To help you get the exact look featured in the magazine, we offer shipping worldwide. Supporting Canadian makers has never been easier, and we can’t wait to see how your version of the Bargello Bulbs turns out!

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Introducing Waddle: A Counted Needlepoint Penguin Ornament Pattern

Once again, Kam Wenzloff and I have collaborated on a brand-new project, and we are excited to share Waddle with you!

As many of you already know, I always showcase counted canvas designs. Similar to the owls featured in our What A Hoot series, I personally loved the idea of penguins. Kam and I discussed this, and she has come up with what we feel is an adorable design.

The Design: Six Charming Counted Needlepoint Penguin Ornaments

There are six penguins in the Waddle series. While each uses the same pattern, the look of each changes beautifully based on the colours chosen.  This consistency makes it a no-fuss project—once you master the pattern, you can focus entirely on the play of light and colour in the threads.

Each penguin is stitched with two Colour Complements threads, highlighting the uniqueness of each hand-dyed colour combination. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced stitcher, this design offers a variety of stitches that keep the process engaging but manageable.

Curated Hand-Dyed Needlepoint Kits

There are two kits. Each kit includes the PDF pattern emailed once purchase is complete along with six different colour combinations of size 5 perle cotton. I’ve attempted to combine a variety of palettes, including:

1. Bold Palettes: For a vibrant, high-contrast look on your tree.
2. Pastel Combinations: For a soft, elegant, and timeless ornament.

In addition and not included in the thread kit, you will need black, white, and yellow perle cotton, which most of you likely have in your needlework stash.

Enjoying Creative Freedom in Stitching

Each of these penguins will likely take only a short time to stitch, making them the perfect “weekend win.” We’ve ensured the hand-dyed needlepoint kit includes more than you’ll need to complete each penguin. Why not experiment and combine even more colour combinations?

The included PDF pattern provides clear instructions for attaching the wings or flippers, ensuring your ornament has a professional, dimensional finish.

Key Takeaway: By using hand-dyed embroidery threads and a distinctive collaborative design, you create a high-quality piece that stands apart from mass-produced kits.

Most importantly, Kam and I hope you enjoy stitching Waddle as much as we enjoyed creating it!

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Last year, I introduced my original Colour Complements design called Autumn Fire, and the enthusiasm from the needlework community has been truly heartwarming! While that initial design celebrated those rich, cozy, warm tones, I’ve been eagerly working on expanding the collection with two additional palettes that showcase completely different colour stories.

Today, I’m delighted to unveil the second variation – Lavender Lace. This design features a complementary lavender palette that brings together the soothing beauty of purple and lavender with carefully chosen accents of green and yellow, creating the perfect composition.

What colours are in this complementary lavender palette?

Before we delve into the stitching details, I’d like to share my thought process behind this complementary lavender palette. There’s something magical about how purple and lavender work alongside their complementary colours. The addition of green creates that perfect natural contrast – think of lavender fields with their silvery-green foliage, or how purple flowers pop against fresh spring leaves. The touches of yellow add just the right amount of warmth to prevent the palette from feeling too cool, creating a balance that feels both sophisticated and welcoming.

This complementary lavender palette offers such versatility in the finished piece. The combination of these colours is particularly fascinating to stitch. As you work through the pattern, you’ll notice how the green accents make the lavender tones appear more vibrant, while the subtle golden highlights add depth and prevent any flatness in the purple areas. It’s an excellent example of how complementary colours can enhance each other rather than compete.

Stitched on 18-count mono canvas, this delicate pattern maintains the same approachable 2 ½-inch diameter that has made this series so popular. The compact size makes it perfect for testing out this complementary lavender palette without committing to a large project, and it’s ideal for gift-giving to fellow stitchers or anyone who appreciates anything handcrafted.

We’ve finished this as an ornament, perfect for seasonal decorating or as a thoughtful handmade gift. The elegant colour combination works beautifully year-round – it’s not tied to any particular season, which gives you flexibility in how and when you display your finished work.

If you choose to add additional borders to increase the size, this complementary lavender palette scales beautifully. The colours have enough richness and variation to carry a larger design, and you might consider adding some of the deeper purple tones in border work to create an even more dramatic frame.

The Lavender Lace kit comes complete with the downloadable PDF pattern, sent directly to your inbox upon purchase, along with four carefully selected size 5 Perle cotton threads in those gorgeous colour combinations. I spent considerable time selecting these specific shades to ensure they work harmoniously together while still maintaining the distinct character of each colour.

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Last year, I introduced a project called Autumn Fire, and the response was terrific! While the original design featured those cozy, warm autumn hues that so many of you loved, I’ve been excited to expand the collection with some fresh new possibilities.

Today, I’m thrilled to share the first of two additional palettes – Pop of Spring Colours. This vibrant variation takes the same beloved design structure but transforms it entirely with a bright summer palette that practically radiates energy and warmth.

Before we explore what makes this palette so captivating, let me share what drew me to these particular colour choices. The Pop of Spring Colours palette celebrates the fresh hues that remind me of sunny meadows and blooming gardens. The four vibrant colour combinations I’ve selected work together beautifully to create a design that feels both lively and harmonious.

The balance of these bright tones can dramatically shift the entire mood of your finished piece compared to the original autumn version, where Autumn Fire embodied cozy evenings and crackling fires. Pop of Spring Colours brings to mind fresh morning air and the first warm days when you can throw open the windows. It’s the same intricate stitch work, but with a completely different visual impact and feel.

I found myself drawn to this brighter palette because it offers such versatility in how you can display your finished work. This version feels perfect for spring and summer décor, but also brings a delightful burst of colour during those dreary winter months when you need a reminder that brighter days are coming.

Stitched on 18-count mono canvas, this little beauty maintains the same compact 2 ½-inch diameter that made the original so appealing – perfect for a quick and satisfying project that you can complete in an afternoon or over the weekend. The size makes it ideal for gift-giving, and you can easily customize the finished size by adding decorative borders of your choice.

What is included with the Pop of Spring Colours Kit

The Pop of Spring Colours kit comes complete with the same downloadable PDF pattern that made Autumn Fire so popular, delivered straight to your inbox upon purchase. Along with the pattern, you’ll receive four carefully selected size five perle cotton threads in those vibrant colour combinations that capture this fresh, summery spirit.

We’ve finished this as an ornament, making it perfect for gift-giving or adding a splash of colour to your own space. The compact design and cheerful palette make this an ideal project for anyone new to counted canvas needlepoint – it’s approachable enough for beginners while still offering those satisfying stitch details that more experienced stitchers appreciate.

If you choose to add additional borders to increase the size, the Pop of Spring Colours palette adapts beautifully to larger formats. The vibrant colours have enough depth and variation to carry a bigger design without losing their impact.

Grab your needles and join me in celebrating the brightness and energy of this delightful new palette. Let’s stitch something beautiful together!

STOREWIDE SALE ongoing! Some great prices so make sure you visit the SHOP.

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Today, I want to share a creative adaptation using our stunning Color #44 rainbow blend. This versatile thread has been a long-time favourite in various projects, from our Welcome Gnome series featuring Florentina to the eye-catching Rainbow Ribbons needlepoint pattern that was featured on the pages of Needlepoint Now.

The rainbow ribbons needlepoint pattern that we’re featuring in this stitch sample is the perfect example of taking an existing needlepoint pattern and making it uniquely yours. Our Rainbow Ribbons project beautifully demonstrates this process. The original inspiration came from Patricia Mazu’s “Crescents: A heart design,” published in the January/February 2022 issue of Needle Pointers. While the original pattern featured a heart shape, we reimagined it into a rectangular design perfect for a small ornament.

Many needleworkers faithfully follow needlepoint patterns stitch by stitch, especially if new to needlepoint – and there’s nothing wrong with that! However, there’s a whole world of creativity waiting when you take inspiration and adapt it to create your designs – think of these patterns as a collection of elements you can mix, match, and transform.

Tips for Adapting Rainbow Ribbons Needlepoint Patterns:

• Start with a pattern element you love
• Consider how different shapes could work in new needlepoint pattern configurations
• Play with scale – elements can be larger or smaller
• Mix elements from different needlepoint patterns
• Let color choices, like our rainbow blend, guide your rainbow ribbons needlepoint pattern design decisions

How We Achieved this Rainbow Ribbons Needlepoint Pattern Design

The rainbow ribbons needlepoint pattern sample was stitched on 18-count mono canvas and measures 3 ¼ x 3 inches. In this pattern, we are showcasing our rainbow blend, colour #44. Colours used in our Rainbow Ribbons Needlepoint Pattern include the following:

• Colour 33
• Colour 44
• Colour 72
• Colour 78

Colour #44 blends brilliant blues, fuchsias, light golden browns and hints of greens. Because it is multi-coloured, there are many opportunities to create various colour palettes. A small amount of metallic thread was added to enhance this design.

While this blog lists a few details of how we achieved this rainbow ribbons needlepoint pattern, remember that every published design holds potential beyond the original. Whether working with hearts, geometric shapes, or florals, you can transform these elements into something completely new and personal for your rainbow ribbons needlepoint pattern projects.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! Start by making small changes to existing needlepoint patterns and gradually building your confidence in pattern adaptation.

The post Rainbow Ribbons Needlepoint Pattern: Creative Adaptations with Color #44 appeared first on Colour Complements.

Much like the straight stitch technique we explored in my previous post, geometric stitch patterns serve as wonderful building blocks for creating beautiful, intricate designs.

In this blog post, we’re featuring how this stitch technique can create stunning patterns using simple and basic shapes.

The Geometric Stitch Pattern and Shapes used in this Pattern

The inspiration behind this design was taken from Susan Portra’s Spirit of the Southwest pattern. The overall pattern used a series of octagons within the design. I purchased this pattern many years ago, and I hope to stitch the entire pattern in the future, but for now, we have chosen one of the nine octagons for our sample.
The sample was stitched on 18-count mono canvas, measuring 3 inches and uses the same beautiful autumn colour palettes that we’ve already highlighted this month:

• Colour 57
• Colour 75
• Colour 85
• Colour 191

With this octagon sample, we hope to have shown how a basic shape combined with thoughtful colour selection can create a beautiful design. Whether you’re new to geometric work or a seasoned stitcher, this pattern offers endless possibilities for creative expression.

The post Creating Beauty with Simple Shapes in Geometric Stitch Patterns appeared first on Colour Complements.

Our featured stitch sampler shows just what you can achieve when you use even basic straight stitches!

Before we dive into the details of this pattern, I felt it’d be worthwhile to highlight just how versatile straight stitches can be. It’s a fundamental stitch that creates clean and uniform lines. When you use straight stitches and apply it in different directions, it provides a beautiful texture through variations in spacing and length. I recommend any one new to the world of needlepoint to start with straight stitches because they are easy to master and serve as a building block for more complicated patterns.

A Closer Look at Our Straight Stitch Sample

We created this 3-inch sampler on an 18-count mono canvas. The original Straight Stitches Sampler pattern was designed by Marilyn Owens as part of the American Needlepoint Guild’s “Hold Up Mini” Series.

These are small projects that they provided for free during the pandemic. The initial intention for this series was to use whatever was left of your stash. The current version you see featured here utilizes a specific colour scheme which is our autumn colour palette (make sure that you check out our previous blog post if you haven’t done so already)!

We used all of the colours of the autumn palette to create this design:

• Colour 57
• Colour 75
• Colour 85
• Colour 191

The use of the basic straight stitch allows you to get creative with other aspects of the pattern (like experimenting with different colour palettes) rather than getting wrapped up in the complexities of the design itself. I’d love to see your interpretation of this design using your own fall palette!

The post Mastering Straight Stitches: A Beautiful Autumn Sampler Tutorial appeared first on Colour Complements.

We’re highlighting a beautiful pattern today, “Prelude to Peace,” showcasing how powerful and beautiful tertiary colours can appear when stitched.  The pattern was designed by Jim Wurth and is larger, featuring four diamonds.  Our sample is one diamond motif incorporating traditional and what some refer to as string stitches. 

More About Tertiary Colours?

Before we jump into the “Prelude to Peace” pattern, I wanted to give you a quick refresher on what tertiary colours are. You may have heard me use these terms in previous blog posts.

Tertiary colours are created by mixing a primary colour (like red, blue, or yellow) with a secondary colour (like green, orange, or purple).  In this sample, blue is our primary with the addition of a blend of green/blue along with variations of blue i.e. turquoise.   

A Closer Look at the Prelude to Peace Pattern

Jim Wurth’s “Prelude to Peace” pattern, measures just under 3 inches on an 18-count mono canvas. Despite being small in size, this is a perfect example that you don’t necessarily need a large canvas to elevate a piece of embroidery. The use of colour and detail is enough resulting in depth and dimension in the pattern!

Three colours stand out in this pattern:

• Colours 47
• Colour 73
• Colour 162

This lovely palette reminds me of the colour seen here on the west coast, with the dark green representing the beautiful rainforest and the blue reminding me of the ocean.

The design is a celebration of colour and creativity. By incorporating tertiary colours like Colours 47, 73, and 162, this diamond motif beautifully demonstrates how these hues can enrich any embroidery project.  

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Today, our sample highlights one of four diamonds featured in Jim Wurth’s “Prelude to Peace” pattern. Earlier in the month, we talked about a bold, bright, and tropical palette featuring three colours from our Colour Complements collection. Our sample features all three of these colours.

This vibrant palette reminds me of the warmth of summer. I can visualize a picnic table set with a lovely yellow and orange tablecloth, complemented by lime green, turquoise, and aqua dishes. When combining these three colours, they create an eye-catching and bold palette. Our stitched sample measures 3 inches on 18 count canvas and showcases the striking combination of colours 66, 67, and 81.

How Prelude to Peace was Stitched

The sample used all three of the tropical colours that were highlighted in my previous blog post.

• Colour 66
• Colour 67
• Colour 81

You have many choices to expand on this palette for a larger project. Consider using various values of solids in yellow, orange, or aqua/turquoise blends. Don’t forget to add texture with flat threads and metallics. Imagine incorporating a dark copper/orange metallic to enhance texture and depth of your design. This bold tropical colour palette offers endless possibilities for creating vibrant, eye-catching needlepoint projects.

You should be able to locate this design in your local needlework shop or your favourite online shop.

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