STEP 3: Reading a Graph
Embroiderers use a shorthand notation to designate where stitches go on fabric
or paper, what type of stitch to use, and what color of thread the stitch should
be made from. We call this a 'graph'. A graph looks at first glance like a
piece of square graph paper. Look closely and you will see that many of the
squares have symbols inside the square or dark lines outlining them.
While this might seem confusing at first, a few simple examples can show you how
a graph is read and how it translates to stitching on Tokens and Trifles ™ sewing cards.
What is the Square on the Graph Equal To on the Sewing Card?
Each graph square equals the area between four holes on the paper sewing card. The four holes form the corners of the square. When a graph square has a symbol inside, it designates that square on the sewing card to be filled with a stitch.
The following diagram (right) shows a graph for an "H" in cross stitch that is surrounded by a backstitched border. The other diagram (left) shows how the pattern would be worked on the Tokens and Trifles ™ sewing card.
How Do I Know What Color to Use?
For graphs that use multiple colors for the stitches, a unique symbol will be assigned to each thread color. There should be a symbol/color key given with the graph that equates each symbol with the thread color. Unless there are specific directions to the contrary, embroiderers assume that a symbol inside a graph square is a cross-stitch.
Backstitch and satin stitch colors are either designated with a different line style on the graph and symbol/color key or described in the chart's instructions. Be sure to read the instructions for a graph to find these additional comments. |
