The bauble is a simple circle 20x20, at the top of which I use metallic thread to sew a square 2x2. When sewing this square I leave loose a little loop in the thread about two thirds of an inch (2 cms) long. This gives an impression of the loop you would use to hang the ornament from a tree.
I've not given the thread colours since you can use any oddments of thread you have hanging around. It's also a handy way of using up any scraps of material you have. If you keep those kits that are given away with stitching magazines but never get round to sewing them, they are usually ideal for these cards.
Once you have this basic circle, you can start making up your own geometric designs on graph paper (I'm certainly no artist, so if I can do it you can!).
- Use back stitch and half cross stitch as well as cross stitch
- Leave spaces in the circle to let the colour of the background material show through
- Use metallics plentifully
Another idea for simple cards is to use simple hardanger motifs. Use white pearl cotton on red or green material, or use white material and mount the pieces on coloured cards to let the colours show through the cut sections.
Cards can be bought in most needlework or craft shops, or if you're planning to make a lot try Craft Creations Limited
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