Tuesday Tips or Techniques-Bargello Technique!

I have a cool technique for you today for "Tuesday Tips or Techniques". The card you see below utilizes the "Bargello Technique". Bargello is a word used in the 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.

Here is my "Bargello" card:

Notice the pattern in the background of the card? Here are the steps to help you create your own!

Step 1:

Cut several 3/4" strips of Designer Paper. I cut a total of 7 strips using 3 different patterns (6 showing in the photo). I started and ended with the same pattern. The strips are 6" long.

Step 2:

Arrange and glue all of your strips on regular copy paper. This will keep them in place for Step 4.

Step 3:

Trim the copy paper so all edges are straight and even.

Step 4:

Using a Paper Trimmer, trim your strips along the edge that has all the designer papers lined up side by side. Cut the strips in different thicknesses, some a little larger than others.

Step 5:

Decide on a pattern for your background. You can use any of the following ones you see below:

ZigZag Pattern:

Wave Pattern:

Pyramid Pattern:

Rick Rack Pattern:

Step 6:

Once you've decided what pattern to use for your background, glue the strips on another piece of copy paper.

Step 7:

Cut your background to the size you want. You can even use a die shape also and cut what you need. Complete your card as you desire!

Close-up of sentiment above and completed card below!

Card Supplies:

• Cardstock: Midnight Muse, Cajun Craze, Very Vanilla
• DSP: Comfort Cafe
• Inks: Midnight Muse, Cajun Craze
• Stamp Sets: Friendly Phrases, Four Frames
• Accessories: 3/8" Ruffled Ribbon in Pool Party, Brads, Flourish Designer Frames
• Tools: Decorative Label Punch, Mini Glue Dots