A Star is Born combines an 8-pointed star with a mitered background to create a lovely ornament or box top. You can use any threads that work on 18-count canvas. Changing the thread will change the whole look of the piece! This is a nice way to try new threads so you can see what they’re like to work with and how they look when finished.

Materials:

• 1 piece #18 mono canvas, color of your choice, 6" x 6"
• #24 tapestry needles
• 3 different threads that fit 18-count canvas

Thread Selection:

Choosing your threads for this project is a lot of fun! With a couple of exceptions noted below, you can use any thread that covers 18-count canvas for any area.

• Thread 1 is used for the center star.
• Thread 2 is used for the mitered rows of Framed Diagonal Mosaic.
• Thread 3 is used for the Tent Stitches that frame the Diagonal Mosaic.
• Thread 2 or Thread 3 is used for the Double Straight Cross in the center of the star.

The following threads may be used as they come out of the spool or skein:

Use partial or multiple strands (not as it comes from the card or skein) of the following threads.

The model shown above on the left used red Charleston (418) for Thread 1, white #5 pearl cotton for Thread 2, and gold (002) #16 Kreinik braid for Thread 3.

The model in the center used White Neon Rays (N02) for Thread 1, Emerald Watercolours (065) for Thread 2, and silver (001) #16 braid for Thread 3.

The model on the right used Amethyst Watercolours (006) for Thread 1, antique violet DMC #5 pearl cotton (3042) for Thread 2, and lilac (023) #16 Kreinik braid for Thread 3.

Charleston, 1/16" Kreinik Ribbon, Rachelette, and RibbonFloss are most effectively used as Thread 1.

Find the center of your canvas and count 8 threads down to begin the innermost level of the star. Use Thread 1 and work four levels as shown on the Eight-Pointed Star Chart. The gray square represents the center of your canvas. Follow the numbers carefully.

Using Threads 2 and 3 work the rows of Framed Diagonal Mosaic. I found it easiest to start at the lower left diagonal point of the star and work 16 tent stitches with Thread 3 along the diagonal. Refer to Master Chart.  This establishes the outside corner of the design and simplifies counting. Work alternate rows of Diagonal Mosaic with Thread 2 (Step 2) and Diagonal Tent stitch with Thread 3 (Step 1).

Place a Double Straight Cross in the center of the star. Use Thread 2 or Thread 3. I picked the one that contrasted the most with Thread 1.

For more information, contact Neon Flamingo Designs