What Is DMC Variegated Floss?

DMC Variegated is the codes between 48 and 125 in the classic floss card: in a 6-strand, 8 m cotton thread two or three tones of one colour (48 red, 52 purple, 67 blue, 90 yellow, 92 green, 99 burgundy, 111 mustard, 125 sea green and so on) change at regular intervals. What sets it apart from Coloris and Color Variations is that it is DMC's oldest variegated range, with more distinct, short-interval tones; classic charts and keys give these codes directly. This page gathers every DMC variegated code at Hobianna; the variegated categories in the cross stitch, embroidery and tapestry branches link here.

What to Make with Variegated

Cross stitch: a variegated effect with 2 strands on 14 ct in borders, hearts, alphabets and single-colour motifs; the classic choice for towel and prayer rug borders. Embroidery: self-shading flowers and leaves in stem stitch, chain and French knots; much used in needle lace and lace edges. Tapestry: a shaded ground on fine canvas. Punch needle and crochet: a colourful effect in small motifs.

Stitching Tips

For the tone transition to show, complete each cross one at a time in cross stitch; combine both strands by pulling from the same end. Blunt size 24 or size 7 embroidery needle, 40–45 cm lengths. An 8 m skein works about 250 stitches on 14 ct; quantity maths is the same as solid floss. Wash at 40°C, iron from the back; colourfastness is the same as solid floss.

Variegated, Color Variations and Coloris

Variegated is the classic 48–125 series with short-interval two-to-three tones; Color Variations the 4000 series with a long, soft transition; Coloris the 4500 series with four different colours. For solid colours and the full card see DMC Floss.