Bargello Needlepoint Using Templates

One of the easiest ways to make Bargello needlepoint and have a unique design is to make an outline and fill it with stitching.

The outline could be as simple as the rectangular opening of a box top or it can be the drawing of a shape , such as a Christmas tree from a coloring book.

When you are looking for a shape to fill with Bargello needlepoint, look for a shape which has clear lines and not too much detail in the center. Lines should be straight or curved and not "wobbly."

Simple shapes like, eggs, hearts, mittens, socks or Christmas trees work best. Once you have found your template, place it underneath your blank needlepoint canvas.

In my experience "straight" lines on canvas rarely completely line up with the threads of the canvas, but I adjust the drawing until it mostly lines up.

The using a permanent marker designed for marking needlepoint canvas (I like Pigma micron or FabricMate markers) trace over the drawing.

Where the line is straight, don't trace, draw along a single thread of canvas.

Be sure to trace completely around the shape.

Once the shape is completed, make your first line of Bargello approximately in the center of the shape.

Continue filling the shape with your pattern until it is filled.

That's it, you've made a unique piece.