I have started a stump work design I had on my list to do for some time. The design is called ‘Natures Circle’ and is designed by Petra Pullen form South Africa. The design consist of various fruits, leaves and insects with al the components get stitched on the main fabric and several of the leaves, berries and insects is stitched separately and later attached to the fabric to give a 3d effect.
I started at the top of the design and will work my way down as the thread often get caught on the raised areas - how frustrating! The grapes were fun to do and I still need to attach some tendrils. I have stitched the leaves using long and short stitch in shades of green (DMC) and the berries of the grapes is done in various shades of petite Mill Hill beads. I just love the tiny little bees aren’t they gorgeous?
I have also completed the cherries, using and interesting technique of covering wooden beads with thread and then attach them to the main fabric. I have finished them off with a single Mill Hill bead. The leaves and stems were stitched in satin stitch and stem stitch.
After the cherries I stitched the Raspberries. The berries is embroidered in clusters of french knots on a separate piece of fabric using 2 to 3 strands in various variations of red, pinks and greens, again using mill hill beads to add color and dimension. To secure the berries the shapes are cut out with a 4mm allowance and gathered just inside the raw edge (like you will do a covered button) and secured it to the main fabric with tiny tack stitches.
Here is the total progress to date..
And here is Miss Paisley insisting that her photo is also taken :-)
What fun! I have started on the oranges and strawberries so will do some more posting on my progress. Happy stitching till next time! Bye.
This week my dear SIL and her family is arriving from England to visit us! It's going to be great with all the family spending time together on holiday! 
