DMC Variegated in Hand Embroidery

The classic way to stitch shaded flowers, leaves and edges with one thread in embroidery and needle lace is DMC variegated floss: the 48–125 series, two or three tones of one colour, 6 strands and 8 m. It gives natural tone changes in stem stitch, chain and French knots, and a lively variegated effect on lace and scarf edges. This category holds the variegated codes for embroidery; the full guide and code list are on the DMC Variegated page. For a soft gradient see Color Variations, for four colours Coloris.

Stitch, Strands and Needle

Stem stitch and outlines 2 strands, satin and fill 3, French knots 2–3; in lace 2–3 strands or a single strand for fine lace. Combine the strands by pulling from the same end. A sharp size 7–9 embroidery needle, a fine size 10–11 for lace; 40–45 cm lengths. Works well on closely woven cotton, linen and scarf fabric. One skein works a small flower bouquet or part of a scarf edge.