Bargello and Quilt Square Techniques-Ideas for using up those scraps of paper

One of the many perks of being a Stampin’ Up! demonstrator is receiving the Stampin’ Success magazine from Stampin’ Up! every month.  It contains great business and workshop tips and wonderful project ideas and samples.  The June edition had an article on the Bargello technique.

According to Wikipedia, Bargello “is a type of needlepoint embroidery consisting of upright flat stitches laid in a mathematical pattern to create motifs. The name originates from a series of chairs found in the Bargello palace in Florence, which have a “flame stitch” pattern.

Traditionally, Bargello was stitched in wool on canvas. Embroidery done this way is remarkably durable. It is well suited for use on pillows, upholstery and even carpets, but not for clothing. In most traditional pieces, all stitches are vertical with stitches going over two or more threads.

Traditional designs are very colorful, and use many hues of one color, which produces intricate shading effects. The patterns are naturally geometric, but can also resemble very stylized flowers or fruits. Bargello is considered particularly challenging, as it requires very precise counting of squares for the mathematical pattern connected with the various motifs to accurately execute designs.”

Bargello is a great way to use Designer Series Paper from Stampin’ Up! as well as all those left over scraps of paper in your paper stash.

Here is my first Bargello project.  I used scraps of the retired Sweet Pea DSP.

Tips and how to’s for the Bargello Technique:

Striped pattern papers work best

Cut DSP into strips of varying width.

Align colors into desired pattern and adhere to Whisper White card stock.

Trim off any pieces that overhang from the base and adhere to your project.

I actually found this technique a little difficult at first. It took me awhile to figure out the pattern so it would be symmetrical. It just takes a little practice.

I found the Quilt Square Technique to be easier.  It is more random.  And of course, it is another great way to use up scraps of paper and ribbon.  For this 3 x 3 gift card, I used Razzleberry Lemonade (retiring)

Quilt Square how to’s:

Cut a square piece of Whisper White card stock.

Cut strips of paper into varying widths.

Start by adhering your first piece (here, Melon Mambo Polka Dot ribbon) in the 2 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions of the card stock.

Lay other scraps along the center piece at an angle, alternating colors and textures.  Trim off any ends that overhang from the base and adhere to your project.

Supplies Used-Bargello card

Stamp Set: Circle Circus

Ink: Pumpkin Pie

Paper: Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate Chip, Taken with Teal, So Saffron, Whisper White, Sweet Pea DSP

Accessories: Five Petal Flower Punch, 1 1/4″ circle punch, Dimensionals

Supplies Used: Quilt Square 3×3 gift card

Stamp Set: Circle Circus

Ink: Melon Mambo

Paper: Barely Banana, Crushed Curry, Whisper White, Razzleberry Lemonade DSP

Accessories: Melon Mambo Polka Dot ribbon, 1″ and 1 1/4″ circle punches, Dimensionals