How to Stitch a Ghiordes Knot
The Ghiordes Knot, also known as the Turkey rug stitch or tufted knot stitch, produces a textured effect similar to that of a carpet, which is where the stitch gets its name. Because the stitch is highly textured, it works well with other textured techniques such as Brazilian embroidery or Casalguidi embroidery, but also provides an interesting contrast for flat needlework.
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Things You'll Need
- Canvas or other fabric and a hoop or frame
- Needle
- Thread of variegated shades of color
Instructions
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Stretch your fabric across a hoop or frame, being careful to achieve even tension. Canvas is ideal and traditionally used for the Ghiordes Knot, but any fabric will do.
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2
Create multiple loops, securing each loop with a backstitch. The loops should be even and uniform in size.
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3
Smooth out the loops when you have the desired number, and then trim them to the length you want, again checking for evenness in thread length.
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4
Repeat the technique using multiple row upon row of stitches for a dense, smooth pile of tufts.
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Create interesting effects with color fading or variegation by changing color gradually from one row to the next. You can achieve a number of color depth effects by mixing and blending thread colors.
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Incorporate the technique in an embroidery project that consists largely of other textured techniques to enhance the texture and add a more subtle effect.
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Employ the technique in an embroidery project that is mostly flat in texture for some more stylized areas that still maintain a uniform texture and contrast while still being consistent with the aesthetic look.
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