Well, folks, (previous project post to jog your memory) I started back on my Castelo Branco bird. There were some unfortunate mishaps. The lighter yellow to the right is earlier work. You can see the sudden color change where I started back up. I’m not sure what happened – did I pick up the wrong yellow? It’s definitely a possibility, because it’s been a while since I touched the project. Oops.
Since I already needed to fix the problem, I thought I’d begin again more carefully at the left, with two strands instead of three. I don’t know if it’s all the practice I’ve had stitching since last time, the change in the number of strands, or that I started using a thread conditioner (which I love), but it looks much, much better. So, that’s staying and the older work is going.
One last photo for the post, and then I’ll rip the right half out.
embroidery for ducks 
Well, restarting a project after a hiatus is kind of interesting. I started one in 2010 and find that in 2011 my stitching has improved. Well, that’s positive, anyway! I love the new shade of yellow you are using, and your stitching is so even – really nice. And BTW, what thread conditioner do you use?
Thread Heaven
I too use Thread Heaven and it is awesome. Working with silk without it is horrible and frustrating. I also find that licking the thread to remove the memory (technical word for the kinks that your thread acquires after you wind it onto a bobbin card) first and then running the thread through TH makes all the difference.
I think it’s a good move to go to 2 threads. It’s always a mistake to go with a thread that is much heavier than the weave of the base fabric. And yes, you do need to pull the old work out – it looks clunky compared to the “new” area. Good luck.
I think I originally went with 3 strands because at the time my stitching skills weren’t up to the close stitching required to cover the shape with 2 strands. Amazing what a difference it makes. Thanks for the advice!
Isn’t it wonderful to be able to see the improvement in your technique!
yep 🙂