Casalguidi Stitch
Casalguidi stitch although known as a single stitch is actually associated with a form of Italian pulled fabric embroidery worked traditionally on linen. It is a type of needlework which originated in a particular village of in Italy. The term Castelguidi is sometimes used to refer to this type of embroidery but since it comes from the village Casalguidi and the village has never been referred to as Castelguidi I think that the term Casalguidi is correct. I would like to thank Dr. Alessandro Chiti from Casalguidi for clarifying the use of this term for me.
Its appeal is that it is a style of needlework that contrasts heavy textured areas against a background of pulled work usually four-sided stitch. This surface stitch produces elements which are in high relief. Other stitches used in this style of embroidery are detached buttonhole, buttonhole bars, double buttonhole bars, bullion stitches and woven bars. The stitch is actually a variation on padded raised stem stitch band. Traditionally bullion knots were often placed over corners and ends of this distinctive stitch.
The illustration is very much a contemporary usage of this stitch. The stitch it self is however. is worked in a traditional form.
This high relief stitch is sewn with the fabric stretched in an embroidery hoop or frame.
First couch a bunch of threads along the line to be worked this becomes the base padding. Cover the base padding in satin stitch.
Next lay a row of foundation stitches at right angles to the padding stitches spaced at 5mm (1/4 of an inch) intervals.
Curved lines need the foundation stitches to radiate around the curve. Do not make these foundation stitches too tight as they become more taut as you sew stem stitch over them.
Using a tapestry needle work stem stitch over the foundation bars.
Apart from the start and end of each row you do not take the thread through the fabric.
Work stem stitch in one direction only.
As you complete each row gently pack it down with your tapestry needle. Avoid splitting the thread of the foundation stitches otherwise you will not be able to pack the stem stitches properly.
