26 The World of Cross Stitching http://www.cross-stitching.comProject Nativity Scene
DESIGNED BY JANE HENDERSON
Spread the Christmas message of peace and love to all of
your guests with this exquisite three-panel Nativity scene
night
I
t’s described as the greatest
story ever told, and for many,
the Nativity is at the heart of
the Yuletide festivities. Here, Jane’s
beautiful version is stitched on rich
navy blue 14-count aida across three
panels, appropriately evoking the feel
of a religious triptych.
Mary and Joseph are in the centre
panel with Jesus, the wise men are
on the right side panel, the shepherds
and angel are on the left and the Star
of Bethlehem is blazing its heavenly
light over everyone. Keep a close eye
on the key to check the number of
strands needed, as the design calls
for three strands for the whole cross
stitches, and a mixture of one and
two strands for the backstitch. Usingthree strands helps the colours stand
out against the dark background,
especially the gold metallic thread
used for the stars, halo and crown.
Once you’ve completed the
stitching, turn to page 30 where
we’ve detailed how to turn it into
a thoughtful ornament that really
shows the spirit of the season.O holy
Amid all the busyness and hectic activity
of Christmas, it can be easy to forget the
messages that are at the heart of it. I hope
that readers will enjoy stitching my version of
the Nativity as a reminder of these.Jane Henderson
Meet the designer
Stitching Time
Approx. 45 hours
Type of Stitches
Cross stitch, fractionals,
backstitch
Ease of Stitching
Beginner/advanced beginnerUse
metallic
Fa c t b thread