Looking for something new to try with your cross stitch? Then consider the Richelieu technique. The Richelieu technique is a type of cutwork where part of the fabric is cut away. The edges are then stitched to make a unique and fascinating design.

The Richelieu technique is often used in embroidery. This technique has been around for many centuries. The Richelieu technique is named after Cardinal Richelieu, who served as the chief minister to Louis XIII. The Cardinal was a writer and patron of the arts who frequently wore embroidered clothing.

The Richelieu technique is also known as a type of white embroidery since often white thread is stitched over white fabric. When stitched in white, the Richelieu technique creates a lacy look, which was popular during the Renaissance. You can use white thread with the Richelieu technique, but there's no reason you can't use colored thread for a vibrant look.

Richelieu embroidery is related to Renaissance embroidery. What's unique about both of these techniques is that you stitch a bar over the opening. In the case of Richelieu, picots are added to the bar for extra flare. The end result is a lovely, lacy pattern that will add real beauty to any design... and if Picot is a new term to you, then according to Wikipaedia, a picot is a series of small embroidered loops forming an ornamental edging on some ribbon and lace.

Before you begin a big project using this technique, consider practicing. Although it's very beautiful and not all that difficult, the Richelieu technique often takes stitchers a few tries to master. So start small. Use a leftover piece of fabric and practice until you feel comfortable using the Richelieu technique.

As with all cross stitch projects, select your fabric and thread first. Next, consider backing your fabric with a fabric stabilizer. The stabilizer helps keep the fabric stiff while you stitch. Many stitchers like to use a stabilizer that is water soluble so it can be washed out after the project is completed.

Once you've chosen your fabric and decided whether to use a stabilizer, place the fabric in a hoop or frame. Holding your fabric while using the Richelieu technique can lead to problems if you're not experienced with this stitching method. For the design to appear correctly, proper thread tension is essential. Having your fabric in a hoop or frame will help you maintain consistent tension.

Next, using a fabric marker or pencil that disappears, mark the area you're going to cut away. Stitchers differ on whether you should cut away the excess fabric first and then Buttonhole stitch around the edges or Buttonhole stitch first and then cut away the excess fabric. Both ways work, although many stitchers feel they get a cleaner edge when they cut away the excess fabric first. If you're unsure about the buttonhole stitch, you can find an explanation in the "Tutorial" section.

Before you stitch the edges, you need to consider how you'll create the bars that will go across the open areas. If you plan to use twisted threads, you should stretch the thread across the opening, pinning it on both sides. You'll later stitch over the ends of this thread using a Buttonhole stitch.

If you prefer to create the bar that crosses the open area using Buttonhole stitching alone rather than twisted or woven threads, you'll want to create this bar as you stitch the edges. Another variation is to secure the threads across the opening and then Buttonhole stitch over the threads.

Regardless of how you create the bars, you'll use the Buttonhole stitch to go completely around the open area. The Buttonhole stitch not only gives the edges a nice, finished look, it also keeps the material from fraying or unraveling. In addition, the stitching will keep the bars that cross the open areas in place.

After you have created the bars, add picots to complete the Richelieu technique. Consult your pattern to see where the picots should be placed.

Using the Richelieu technique is a great way to create a glorious cross stitch project. Although it may seem complicated at first, with a little practice, you'll soon be an expert... and think of the enormous satisfaction you'll get from mastering this quite rare technique.