Alphabet Progress

This is my latest needlework project. I shared a peek a few posts back- see how much I've gotten done since then? I promised to share a little more about this design, so here goes.

This is Alphabet Sampler by Elizabeth's Designs. I fell in love with this the moment I saw a stitched model at my LNS. It was stitched on 40ct Lambswool linen, like the pattern calls for, and it was dainty and gorgeous. I decided to use a 32ct linen from stash (Antique Lace by Wichelt, purchased "on spec" from Hobby Lobby ages ago) because a.) I already had it on hand, and b.) I don't think my eyes could take stitching on 40ct. I'm happy with the size and the way the colors are looking on it. (The photo is a little dark and "blue" on my monitor.)

I'm using DMC floss as called for in the pattern. The model does use some Sampler Threads, and I do plan to check my stash to see if I have any of the listed colors, or suitable substitutes, on hand. If not, there are DMC conversions in the leaflet.

What I love about this design is how it's "compartmentalized." Each letter has its own square with a little example. A for acorn, B for beehive (haven't stitched it yet because I need to subtitute threads), C for cherry, etc. And it's not just cross stitching, which gets boring after a while. There are several specialty stitches: the cherries are Rhodes Stitches, the grapes are tiny Smyrna Crosses, and there is lots of satin stitching and straight stitching. Each little square is fun to stitch as well as quick to complete.

Stay tuned for progress as the alphabet progresses...