Stella’s Birds – Stabby Bird (part one)
I started Stabby Bird quite simply with a line of feather stitch in the variegated thread, but then, my goodness, I wandered off the path of success and created a sad and congested mess!
I like the padded buttonhole stitch on the leading edge of the wing, but the tangle of fly stitches and feather stitches on the body , and the trellis stitch on the leg – nope, don’t like any of that. It’s too heavy and blocky, it doesn’t provide any light and shade, it just makes the wrong impression. Out it came!
I added a bit to the leading edge of the wing – feather stitch in the variegated thread. I like that, I think it’s fun.
Floral feather stitch on the wing – that’s a stitch I’m very fond of, but don’t often remember. I must do it more often! The top edge of the wing, and the leg, both in feather stitch in a very fine linen thread. It’s a bit pinkier than I had in mind, but it doesn’t draw attention unpleasantly.



Oh yes, the second version has the wing edge reading properly, not swallowed up in the body stitching. The pretty, decorative stitches give the wing just enough shape, while letting the background fabric play its part. Result: delightful!
I do like how the wing works and those dainty little legs work much better.
I love the look of the Floral Feather Stitch. It is a stitch that is new to me. Where did you learn it?
It looks very pretty.