ASTRAKHAN VELVET STITCH
The Astrakhan Velvet Stitch is a variation of the velvet stitch. Like the velvet stitch, this stitch is a member
of the "Looped Stitch" family and also a "Pile Stitch". Pile Stitches are stitches that extend out from the canvas, creating a "pile" effect. The pile is formed by loops. These loops may be cut (for example, when working a rug) or may remain uncut. Instructions for cutting the loops are on the velvet stitch page (see Diagram 7). The velvet stitch may be worked on rug, mono or penelope canvas. When creating the loop, you may choose whatever size you want. Just be sure all of the loops end up the same size. Three diagrams have been used to demonstrate this stitch.
Astrakhan Velvet Stitch Diagram 1:
Bring the needle up at A and create a loop (any size you choose). Holding the loop in place, bring the needle down at B. Helpful Hint: Although the loop you create may be any size that you choose, keep in mind that the longer the loop (or any stitch), the more chance it has to snag and break. Helpful Hint 2: When using this stitch as a rug stitch, be sure to make all of the loops the same size. Now, continue on to diagram 2...
Astrakhan Velvet Stitch Diagram 2:
While holding the loop we created in diagram 1, bring the needle up at C, move up and to the right over two canvas intersections, bring the needle down at B. Bring the needle up at D, move up and to the left over two canvas intersections, bring the needle down at A. This cross stitch should be worked OVER the loop we created in the first diagram, holding it in place. Bring the needle up at B and create a loop. Holding the loop in place, bring the needle down at E. While holding the loop in place, bring the needle up at D, move up and to the right over two canvas intersections, bring the needle down at E. Bring the needle up at F, move up and to the left over two canvas intersections, bring the needle down at B. Again, this cross stitch should be worked OVER the loop we just created, holding it in place. Bring the needle up at E and create a loop. Holding the loop in place, bring the needle down at G. While holding the loop in place, bring the needle up at F, move up and to the right over two canvas intersections, bring the needle down at G. Bring the needle up at H, move up and to the left over two canvas intersections, bring the needle down at E. And yet again, this cross stitch should be worked OVER the loop we just created, holding it in place. Now, continue on to diagram 3...
Astrakhan Velvet Stitch Diagram 3:
This diagram illustrates how the next row should be worked into the first row of stitches.
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