Bargello Embroidery

Bargello Embroidery is a beautiful counted needlework technique known for its flowing geometric patterns, vibrant colours, and striking sense of movement. Traditionally worked with straight stitches of varying lengths, Bargello creates repeating designs that resemble waves, flames, zigzags, and other fascinating shapes. Sometimes called Florentine Embroidery or Flame Stitch, this centuries-old technique has been used to decorate cushions, chair coverings, and other household textiles. Its colourful patterns make it just as appealing in modern embroidery and decorative needlework. The bargello stitch consists of a basic straight stitch which you lay side by side to make up different patterns. The fibre you use for this stitch should be thick enough to cover the fabric threads as you make each straight stitch.

This course is designed for stitchers who are already comfortable working counted stitches on linen and are ready to explore a more adventurous technique. You'll enjoy step-by-step video lessons, along with helpful downloadable documents, including Stitching Basics and a special small embroidery pattern designed to help you practise your new skills.

One of the delights of Bargello is watching a beautiful pattern emerge as you work rows of straight stitches across your fabric. By carefully changing the placement of each stitch, you can create flowing curves, dramatic peaks, and rhythmic geometric designs. Colour plays an important role in Bargello embroidery, and you'll discover how different combinations of shades can give the same pattern an entirely different appearance. Although the individual stitches are simple, accurate counting and careful placement are essential to achieving the distinctive Bargello effect.

If you're new to counted stitching on even-weave linen, I recommend taking my Introduction to Cross Stitching on Linen course first. Learning to count fabric threads accurately will give you the confidence to explore Bargello and many other beautiful counted embroidery techniques.

Join me as we explore Bargello Embroidery together, practising on a doodle cloth at your own pace. Enjoy discovering the wonderful patterns you can create with simple straight stitches, and feel free to share your stitching progress and finished work on social media. I'd love to see what you create!