Smyrna stitch worked with a crochet-needle (figs. [846], [847], [848], [849]).—In the chapter on tapestry, p. [137] we remarked that Oriental carpets and mats could be worked in different other ways, to be subsequently alluded to at greater length.
Fig. 846. Smyrna stitch worked with a crochet needle. First detail.
Fig. 847. Smyrna stitch worked with a crochet needle. Second detail.
Smyrna stitch requires only a crochet needle and is worked on very coarse canvas or Java linen. You take a coarse mesh of cotton, such as Nos. 6, 8 or 10 of Colon à tricoter D.M.C (knitting cotton), cut it into lengths of 8 c/m., fold two lengths together in half, stick in the crochet needle from above, under two threads of the canvas, take hold of the loop with the hook, fig. [846], and draw it in; then push out the hook to seize the ends of the cotton and draw them through the loop which is on the needle, as indicated by the little arrow in fig. [847]. The stitches or tassels should be two or three double threads of the canvas apart. As you finish each row, comb the ends of the tassels out carefully with a fine metal comb. When the whole piece of work is finished shear the entire surface, quite even, with a pair of sharp scissors. Fig. [849] shows a square of the work completed, presenting that warm velvety appearance which distinguishes the Smyrna carpets.
Fig. 848. Smyrna stitch worked with a crochet needle. Appearance of the knots underneath.