Water Lilies

A lily pond with a dragonfly hovering above the water, worked almost entirely in long stitch: straight stitches of varying length that follow the outlines already printed on the canvas and cover large areas quickly, giving the piece a soft, shaded look. The raised ripples on the water are worked in couching, with the metallic thread held down by small stitches.

It suits anyone who would like a change from counted cross stitch, since the printed outline guides the stitching. A frame is not included: once finished, the work can be framed or made up into a cushion. An embroidery frame or stretcher bars will help keep the canvas taut.