Christmas Cheer by Katherine Diuguid

‘Unexpected things happen when you mix coloured threads with metal threads in embroidery – the metals cast their reflections onto the threads, changing the perception of the colours to the viewer.

The excitement lies in the unpredictable nature of how the reflections affect the perception of the surrounding colours.’

This was Katherine Diuguid’s explanation of her fascination with how metal threads and colour embroidery influence each other when Ansie interviewed her for a front-page article in Inspirations issue #113.

With Katherine’s latest project, aptly named Christmas Cheer, Katherine continues her experiment with colour, this time combining metal threads with multicoloured beads instead of embroidery threads.

‘Growing up, I loved assembling my mother’s green ceramic Christmas tree ornament, taking time to place all the peg lights in each hole and then watching it come to life with the flick of a switch.

I cannot explain why that specific decoration brought me so much joy, but it did year after year.’

It was the approaching festive season during lockdown that inspired Katherine to recreate this simple childhood joy. By combining metal thread embroidery with a selection of glass beads and crystals, she created a Christmas tree hanging decoration brimming with holiday cheer.

The project measures 10cm (4 “) in diameter and is stitched on a background of pale linen woven with a lurex thread, adding extra sparkle

Loops of green purl are used to create the tree branches and the trunk is stitched with metallic thread.

Strings of bead ‘lights’ adorn the branches and decorations are added with larger beads. Loops of seed beads decorate the outer edge. The ornament can be hung from a loop of red satin ribbon.

The project includes back stitch, beading, couching, stem stitch, as well as chipping – a technique that is worked using very short lengths of cut purl, called chips, stitched in place at different angles to catch the light. This works best with check purl rather than smooth purl as it creates a more effective texture.

The added joy of using coloured beads and crystals to create this tree decoration is, by changing the colours of the beads, it is easy to make a variety of different decorations, multiplying the Christmas Cheer.

Make Your Own Christmas Cheer

Step 1 – Purchase Project Instructions

Christmas Cheer by Katherine Diuguid is a sparkling Christmas tree ornament embellished with metal thread, beads and crystals.

Step 2 – Purchase Ready-To-Stitch Kit

The Inspirations Ready-To-Stitch kit for Christmas Cheer includes everything* you need to re-create this sparkling ornament: fabrics (unprinted), wool felt, wadding, card, ribbon, tissue paper, embroidery threads, beads and needle.

*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 book.