Buon Natale by Di Kirchner
26th November 2021
When you come across a new technique, it can sometimes be a little daunting to see a large project and wonder whether you’re going to be able to master the stitch well enough to get the project complete.
It is wonderful to admire samplers and pictures, but what many of us want is something small, beautiful and practical so that we can learn the technique and experience the satisfaction of getting our very first project using our new skills completed.
This is exactly what Di Kirchner has done for us with Buon Natale from Inspirations issue #112.
Worked in the exquisite 15th Century Italian technique known as reticella, Di has created a design with just enough detail to challenge but not so much to overwhelm.
Reticella is a fine form of needlelace that originated in Italy as a type of cutwork. The word means ‘little net’ or ‘small grid’ in Italian. The name refers to the original form of reticella where squares would be removed from woven linen leaving a mesh upon which to stitch.
Modern reticella is created without a base fabric, rather the designs are stitched using needle and thread in voids and spaces or along the edge of the linen.
Needlewoven Bars
Di’s ornament has a central reticella motif that allows you to try out the technique. Her clear instructions guide you through the process of working the border, with its silvery, woven detail. She then gives guidance on cutting and removing threads – a task that can make even the most experienced stitcher nervous!
You can then add the lace-like details in tiny, close blanket stitch. In order to create the star shape, the design is worked as four identical segments, each being completed before the next begins.
A lot of the success of reticella has to do with your tension, which needs to be just right – not too tight, and not too loose. You also need to ensure your stitches are even and neat.
A lot of the success of reticella has to do with your tension, which needs to be just right – not too tight, and not too loose. You also need to ensure your stitches are even and neat.
The joy of Buon Natale is that it can be completed in a relatively short time. Finishing the ornament requires adding a twisted cord around the edge and finalising the tassel with a delicate needlelace top and a string of tiny, shining pearls to give a really festive feel.
This little ornament will look stunning on the Christmas tree and is sure to garner many comments. As you’re celebrating the season and enjoying the Christmas cheer, you can be satisfied you’ve taken on a new technique and mastered it.
Once you’ve created Buon Natale, perhaps you might like to try a larger reticella project? Or alternatively, you might find yourself going back to this project again and again to make a few extra special gifts for family and friends. Either way we wish everyone a Buon Natale (Good Christmas!).
Make Your Own Buon Natale
Step 1 – Purchase Project Instructions
Buon Natale by Di Kirchner is a beautiful reticella tree ornament worked in white and silver with a cord loop and beaded tassel.
Inspirations Issue 112
Buon Natale – i112 Digital
Step 2 – Purchase Ready-To-Stitch Kit
The Inspirations Ready-To-Stitch kit for Buon Natale includes everything* you need to re-create enchanting Christmas ornament: Fabric (unprinted), embroidery threads, sewing thread, firm card, beads and needles.
Buon Natale – i112 Kit
*Please Note: To cater for flexibility of purchase, instructions are not included with our kits. For step-by-step directions on how to create this project, please refer to the magazine/digital pattern.