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smoothing a curve with fractional stitches!
Fractional, or three-quarter stitches can be used to provide a smoother profile for
curved lines in your stitching. Use them to soften the profile of a face, add definition
to a flower petal, or provide the perfect shape of a vase.
Fractional stitches are awkward to do on Aida as the fabric weave is dense and
the needle must penetrate the center of the block, but they can be done. Linen and
even-weave fabrics, stitched over two, provide the perfect opportunity to make fractional
stitches and enhance the look of your design.
A single three-quarter stitch takes up half the space occupied by a full cross and
consists of a half cross stitch followed by a short leg from the center of the half cross
to the closest corner. Inevitably, two different colors will abut one another. A second
fractional stitch must be made in the opposing color to complete the cross.
There are two schools of thought when working fractional stitches on opposing colors.
Some stitchers choose to carefully lay two half cross stitches next to each other, sharing
the same holes, with the 1/4 stitches originating on opposite sides of the cross and sharing
the center. Others simply create a three quarter stitch in one color, finishing with a quarter
stitch in the other. Either system can be used—it is entirely up to you.
Here's to beautiful stitching!
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