“A Portière” (Plate IV.).—In this piece of work an excellent example of this method of filling is seen; the groups of five stitches worked in lemon wool, on a black linen background, make a bright chequered effect, which adds both interest and distinction to the design.
Fig. 11.
Button-hole Filling of a Space (Fig. 11).—Fig. 11 shows clearly the method of filling an open space in this way. The edges must be button-holed in the manner described for white work, unless a braid is used, when the firm edge which it gives is sufficient without extra stitching. Begin at the right upper corner; make three small overcast stitches to carry the thread into position for working the first row, which consists of groups of three button-hole stitches worked loosely into the edges of the braid or material; at the end of the row fasten the thread to the braid; again overcast three stitches; work the second row of button-hole into the loops or spaces of the previous row; continue in this way until the space is filled; the last row should be worked into the braid, in order to keep the others in position.
Plate X. has the central portion enriched by a filling worked in button-hole in blue flax thread. It is commenced from the centre; the lines of the pattern are then followed towards the outer edges (see description on [p. 112]). Plate XI. shows a similar filling, in the flower at the corner, which is also worked in colour and finished on the inner row of button-holing by a line of back stitch.
Fig. 12a.
A Diapered Border (Fig. 12a).—Quite an interesting solid diapered background may be obtained by working these stitches in rows, in groups of three or five. The clusters are worked closely at the top; the second row has the apex of each cluster fitting into the base of the preceding one. A very pleasing border in contrasting colours may be obtained in this way; the two firm lines of button-holing will, of course, form the outer edges.
Fig. 12b.