This video tutorial, “Assisi Cross Stitch Embroidery for Beginners,” introduces you to the classic Italian needlework technique known as Assisi work. In this distinctive style, the main design is left unworked (voided), while the surrounding background is filled with vibrant cross stitches.
Here is how to create an authentic Assisi embroidery piece step by step:
- Outline the design: Use a contrasting thread to outline the motif using a running stitch (or Holbein stitch). Make sure there are no gaps between the stitches so the outline forms a clean, solid, and continuous line.
- Define the background area: Determine the area surrounding the main motif that will be filled with cross stitches.
- Fill the background: Work your cross stitches across the background using a bright, contrasting color, leaving the central figure blank to stand out against the stitched field.
As you can see, Assisi embroidery is straightforward once you understand the basic principle of stitching the background rather than the motif itself. Try it once, and you will easily be able to incorporate this historic Italian technique into your own needlework projects.
Watch this free video masterclass online anytime and enjoy bringing new needlecraft techniques to life!
