The inspiration for this work came from a photograph of a cardinal and the desire to replicate it as accurately as possible using silk shading.  The Cardinal and branch are replicated using long and short stitch to blend the many values of browns, red oranges and orange reds into the completed work.  The other stitches to create the fine details of the bird are trailing stitch, split stitch, stab stitch, bullions and “compacted “ stem stitch.

The stumpwork dogwood bloom and leaves are created using couched wire, detached buttonhole stitch, split backstitch, French knots and random long and short stitches.

The supplies will include the hand drawn design on silk dupioni large enough to accommodate more design elements if desired as well as extra thread and fabric for more blooms and leaves.  The students will learn to work from a color photograph and a suggested color guide to achieve realistic silk shading.  In addition, a color photograph of the completed work will be provided.  The written instructions will include diagrams of all stitches required to execute this piece and the teacher will demonstrate as needed for less accomplished stitchers.

Some blackout dates for sales may be apply due to teaching contract compliance.  Please contact us for orders and availability dates.