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Hi there

I'm about to start the Needleprint Beatrix Potter sampler and want to use Thread Gatherer Silk n' Colors threads for the first time. I'm a bit unsure about how to proceed with these threads - do I split them like ordinary DMC threads? The pattern calls for 2 strands in the needle.
Are there any special 'quirks' I should be aware of when using these threads? This is also the first time I will be using a hand-dyed thread which is variegated in colour. I believe the trick is to complete each cross as you go, instead of doing half-crosses then going back to complete them in the other direction?

Many thanks for any tips and helpful ideas!

Zeta xx

Hi there, you are quite right that you should split the silk just like DMC. I think it's broadly the same thickness so the silk can be substituted like-for-like. And yes, you should also complete both arms of each stitch before moving on to get the best effect. Try to cut lengths of silk which begin and end in the same colour, it makes for a smoother finish when you change threads.

Silk n Colours is a lovely silk - have fun using it!

Hi Everyone

I've been stitching away on the Needlepring Beatrix Potter sampler, using Thread Gatherer Silk n' Color floss in Cherry Wine on 32 ct linen. It's a lovely thread to use, but thicker than I'd anticipated. I'm using 2 strands, like I would with a DMC thread, but it's all looking quite chunky. Now I see, when I log onto the Thread Gatherer website, that they suggest using only 1 strand on fabric counts 28 and over.

Has anyone else ever encountered this problem? Any suggestions? I've completed 3 motifs and would prefer not to start over with 1 thread if possible!

Many thanks
Zeta xx

I used 2 strands of the Silk N Colors on my Strawberry Fields project and that was just fine. I stitched that on a 32 count Lugana and it had good coverage but it didn't feel bulky at all. Maybe you could try one strand on a piece of scrap fabric to see how it looks? I would be worried that the coverage wouldn't be good enough......