OhSewCrafty Blog

• Pattern by Sue Hillis
• Materials: 32 count queen anne’s lace jobelan, threads, etc as charted
• Size: 5.25″ x 7.5″
• Time to stitch: 1 month among other projects

I saw this pattern stitched up as a model at Haus Tirol in Williamsburg, VA and thought it was really classy and nicely detailed.  I had been on the hunt for a good graduation pattern.  My only quibble was the coverage seemed a bit spotty (on 28 count fabric).  So, I chose to stitch mine on 32.  Easy fix. 

The only modification I made was to the square on the bottom, I had to make it a bit larger (1 stitch taller, 1 stitch wider) to accommodate the “lamp of learning” charm. The most fiddly bit of the pattern was the bit of the diploma that was stitched 1 x 1 under the text.  That tiny bit of 1 x 1 took forever.  I don’t think I’ll be doing any skin conversions to 1 x 1.  It is certainly beautiful, no doubt about that, but I am not sure that is worth the time investment (for me). 

The fabric is 32 count “queen anne’s lace” jobelan.  This neutral color is slightly mottled, with an aged appearance.  I love stitching on jobelan.  It’s so soft and even, and my needle just glides through the fabric.  And, this chart fits on a fat 1/8, so it was a very economic choice as well. 

My favorite details are the tassel on the cap and the “key of knowledge” charm atop the book stack.  I like the lamp charm too- both are highly detailed.  The charms came with the chart and are also available separately (for $3) if you want to stitch the chart again.  This is my first Sue Hillis project but certainly won’t be the last!  In fact, I recently purchased “Twas the Night” and “Cookies for Santa” is high on my wishlist.