RS monogram on linen (hand embroidered by Mary Addison)
For some time now I’ve had it in mind to adapt a monogram seen on a piece of vintage linen (see below). I liked the fluid Art Nouveau quality, although I wasn’t so keen on one of the initials which was too contorted, but that was easily changed. I also wanted this monogram to be quite simple with no further embellishment.
Vintage monogram embroidered on linen
Once I was happy with my design, I used a sharp pencil to transfer it on to a piece of linen using a small light box. I then went over the pencil lines with 2 strands of embroidery thread using a running stitch. A quick wash by hand removed the pencil marks and ironing the fabric dry from wet (between a folded clean tea towel) made the linen as crease free as it could be.
Chain stitch padding for satin stitch monogram
To give the monogram a bit of padding, I filled in with chain stitch and stem stitch – at this stage I realised it would have worked just in chain stitch but having decided it was to be finished in satin stitch, I was committed to continue – too often I ignore the easy route when a more time consuming one is on offer – and yet I was very happy with the foliage on this.
RS satin stitch monogram: detail
I used DMC 3865 for the embroidery which is a yellow white.
RS monogram (hand embroidered by Mary Addison)
When I’ve decided whether to frame it or make it into a small cushion, I’ll blog the end result.
6 Comments
That’s a great success – looking forward to seeing what you do with it!
Can’t make my mind up. May have to be a cushion as I need to source some new box frames – I’ve used up my stock of lovely small solid oak frames from Debenham’s and their new versions are MDF covered in oak patterned paper which are quite horrible.
Thank you so much for generously sharing your behind-the-scenes preparation, Mary. I must look out for a light box now. And you’re remarkably speedy and organised to have embroidered this monogram for a baby born just six days ago.
I can be quick when I know exactly what I’m doing. It’s being satisfied with the design that takes time. (By the way, it was for a wedding, not a baby, hence I’ve known the initials for some time.)
I always enjoy reading about the process you go through to produce these beautiful works Mary. I can only imagine the delight of the recipients on receiving a unique, hand made gift. Your friends and parishioners are very lucky!
I’m glad you enjoy hearing about the making of the monograms, Penny. I very much enjoy making them and am delighted when people are pleased to receive them.