xplains the working of the stitch; it is shown in four stages, and
is quite simple; the final result is a cross surrounded by a square. The
lowest figure in the diagram shows the last stage, for the upper side of
the square is filled in when the row above is worked. The drawing
together of the web is not shown, but at a trial it should be done, for
in that lies the special character of the stitch. The silk used must be
just thick enough to well cover the linen, but not too thick, for then
the work would be clumsy.

[Illustration: Fig. 84.]

[Illustration: Fig. 85.]

Holbein stitch (fig. 85), also known as stroke or line stitch, is alike
on both sides, and is often used in conjunction with cross and satin
stitch, as well as alone. Very intricate and interesting patterns can be
devised to be carried out with these three stitches, worked always with
regard to the web of the linen. Squared paper could be used for
planning the design, as the stitches would all be practically of the
same length, and the pattern must be one that can be easily carried out
alike on both sides. The stitch is worked as follows: An even running
stitch, picking up as much material as it leaves, is taken all round the
pattern. This does half the work on either side; the gaps are then
filled up by the running stitch being taken in a contrary direction,
which completes the pattern. Occasionally stitches go off at an angle
from the running pattern; these are completed on the first journey by a
satin stitch being made at the necessary point. The present diagram is a
zigzag line, with one of these stitches going off at each angle. Fig. 86
is an example of a border design carried out in Holbein stitch.

[Illustration: Fig. 86.]

[Illustration: Fig. 87.]

The stitch illustrated in fig. 87 is known as rococo stitch. It is a
useful one for carrying out a conventional design, such as, to give a
simple illustration, a flower sprig repeating in the spaces formed by a
trellis pattern. The effect of the stitch when worked cannot be judged
from this diagram; to see this properly a piece of canvas must be worked
entirely over with it. The pattern chosen is usually one that lends
itself to being worked in diagonal lines, as this stitch is best worked
in that way. It entirely hides the canvas background, and is carried out
very similarly to the oriental stitch in fig. 71. By the help of that
diagram and description and the present one, which gives various steps,