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Working the Diaper Couching Stitch

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The Diaper Couching Stitch is one of the many various forms of Couching. Couching is a very effective means of covering large forms and achieving rich results by simple stitches. This work is done over a frame or in a hoop.

The most useful forms of couching for what was considered “modern embroidery” in 1899, and especially for embroidery upon linen, was the Diaper Couching.

To Work: This is done by taking one long stitch diagonally across the form which is to be worked, then another at a distance of from one-eighth to one-fourth of an inch, and so on across the space.

Next cross these lines diagonally with others the same distance apart, till the space is filled again. Now with a series of short stitches of the same or a contrasting color, catch down these long stitches at each intersection, either with a Single Stitch or with a Cross Stitch. After each intersection has been caught in place, the whole figure is to be outlined.

The diaper couching stitch is rapid and very effective work, and is especially adapted to large centers of conventional flowers, and to open spaces between fancy scrolls.

A much richer effect is obtained by covering the space first with Satin Stitch, and covering with the couching as just described (See illustration above). A large space can be worked in Satin Stitch when the Couching is to be added, as this holds the long stitches securely in place.

An effect similar to couching is obtained by making the intersecting lines in Kensington Outline Stitch, and adding the tiny Cross Stitch at the intersections. This work is especially pretty upon fine table linen where careful work is more desirable than broad effects.

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SBI!