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Click here for a print version of the instructions
In 2009, we will be doing a year-long challenge. The concept is quite simple: three main colors are selected and each month new stitches will be provided for you to incorporate
into your sample using the selected colors.
How are the colors selected?
At the February 2009 meeting we selected the colors; we also discussed sampler designs and
ways to use colors in our first layered stitch. In order to keep us from selecting our usual choice
of colors, we blindly selected our colors by drawing three crayons from our “color selector”
box. The colors we drew determine the color palate used. In addition up to two neutrals and one
accent color may be selected to complement the main three colors.
Do I have to use linen? Do I have to use canvas? What threads do I have to use?
May I use beads too?
The sampler is worked on your choice of even-weave fabric or canvas – at the count you like
working on the best and your choice of color. You may use any threads and embellishments (e.g.,
beads) as long as they are from your selected colors.
How are the stitches used in the sampler?
The stitch of the month must be used in a shape that is at least 1½” by 1½”. The shapes may be
arranged in any way you find pleasing and may be whatever you want – from geometric shapes
to abstract shapes. Part of the challenge is deciding how you want to design your sampler.
Additional stitches may be used to form bands and/or borders to complement your sampler
design using your neutral and accent colors. The size of the finished sampler is whatever size you
decide, as long as it meets the minmum stitch area. The smallest design area it can be is 4½” x
6”, if you have the minimum size blocks arranged in a 4-by-3 layout.
How is the color palate used?
Each stitch provided will be a layered stitch, allowing multiple colors to be used in each stitch. In
the shape for the stitch, at least two of the three main colors must be used. Multiple combinations
of colors for the stitch may be used in the shape. You must use all three of the main colors in
your sampler.
What if I could not attend the February meeting or am not certain I want to do the
challenge – can I still participate at a later date?
YES! If you could not attend the February 2009 meeting or are not certain you want to do the
challenge right now, you may start the challenge any time during the year. The stitches and
instructions will be available on our chapter web site (http://StitchersByTheSea.EGA-GPR.org).
The “color selector” box will be brought to the meetings regularly.
Sampler Layout
You may use any evenweave fabric or canvas of your choice. Each stitch must be used in an area
that is at least 1.5” x 1.5” (or 2.25 square inches). The shape and layout is up to you. You may do
a band sample, an abstract sampler, a geometric sampler, a spot sampler. Shown below are are
ideas for the layout. You may add borders/bands using the neutrals and accent colors.
Sample Layout 1
Squares with a border around each square.
Sample Layout 2
Rectangles with small bands
Sample Layout 3
Circles
Sample Layout 3
Circles arranged in a oval
Sample Layout 4
Diamonds
Sample Layout 5
Varying shapes
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