We really are heading up towards the end of this challenge and I am still scratching my head as to what to do next year. I have a few ideas and plan to write something later in the week if time permits. Also yesterdays post has produced lots of comments some are very to the point and thoughtful which has provoked some lines of thought that are worth pulling into another post so look for that too.  Thanks to all those who have left a comment!

Without further fuss this weeks Take a stitch Tuesday challenge is Chain Braid stitch . I know some people will tear their hair out with it but it is a challenge and I promise something easier next week. I hope the instructions are clear. Chain Braid stitch is a linear stitch, which is also known as Braid stitch or Gordian knot stitch. It can be worked on plain or even-weave fabrics but in all cases need to be worked close together otherwise it will not stay in place. This is a tricky stitch for intermediate to advanced stitchers and tension is important so it must be worked using a hoop.

It creates a textured braided border, which is slightly raised that holds curves well.

It is in the tight braiding that the success of this stitch depends. The stitches should be kept close together small less than 5mm (1/4 in) high, otherwise the loops slip and become loose, and pull out of shape as the braided effect is lost.

Work this stitch between close parallel lines, using a firm, twisted thread, such as pearl cotton. Stranded floss is too flat to work this stitch well.

When working on an even-weave fabric, one or two of the fabric threads can be drawn out behind the stitches to produce a lacy look.

Instructions on how work Chain Braid stitch

Bring the needle up through the fabric at the base of the line.
Insert the needle on the top line with the thread twisted and looped as illustrated. Note that the thread is passing underneath pointing diagonally down and left, the top thread which is pointing right.

Bring the needle out on the bottom line directly below where it is inserted. Do not have the needle on the diagonal.

Take the thread across the needle and under its point.

Pull the needle through the fabric in a downwards motion.

Continue repeating these steps making sure you keep your stitches close together.

Remember to swing by and leave a comment preferably on this page, so that people can follow the link and see what you have done. There is a Take a stitch Tuesday flickr group which you can browse. Do leave a comment if you are still stitching as towards the end of the challenge I will publish a list of those finished or very close to finishing the challenge.

That's it for this week don't curse me too much I love you all really I do!