If you live in South Africa and have walked through grass it is very likely that you have had to remove ‘Black Jack’ seeds from your clothing. While in the garden Vyv came across a well-developed specimen of this weed which should have been removed ages ago.  She picked stems of flowers, buds, leaves and seeds and photographed them and then used this as reference material to draw a black jack design for embroidering on a white tray cloth. It is a botanical style design with interesting shaped seeds to embroider.

Attached to the tray cloth is a photograph of the completed embroidery showing the stitches used.

A list of the DMC article 117 Stranded Cotton colours used is also provided

Thread and Needles are NOT included.

This frame is supplied with clamps which grip fabric really well. Gecko is supplied which helps the clamps grip extra firmly keeping your work as tight as a drum. The grips are interchangeable and you can work on the top section for small pieces of work and the stand section for larger pieces. The stand can be flattened to make transport easier It is ideal for working on your lap or at a table. It is advisable to work with your strongest hand underneath the work and pass the needle through the work to the stronger hand. This means there are no unneccesary movements from hand to hand around the frame that can slow you down. It is very easy to turn the frame upside down in order to finish off threads. Remember to release your work from the frame when you are not working.

A pretty cross-stitch pansy design framed with double cable stitch.

The advantage of this frame is that it can be rested on a table or a lap. The tray is useful to accommodate scissors, exra needles and thread needed while working. The grip holds any size embrodery hoop leaving both hands free.

A tip for cross stitch worked with a stabbing stitch: work with your strongest hand underneath the work and pass the needle through the work to your weaker hand positioned above the work. The weaker hand makes the stitch passing the needle back through the work to the sronger hand. Repeat. This means there are no unnecessary movements from hand to hand around the frame that slows you down!