Bargello is a form of needlepoint in which (typically) only straight stitches are used, usually in geometric patterns. Popular patterns usually involve using many shades of one color in rows shaped into squares, diamonds, hearts, etc. Flame-shaped patterns are also very popular. Bargello is worked in one direction or can be worked in four directions that all merge at the center of the fabric. It is sometimes called "Florentine work," usually when the stitches are of two lengths, over two threads and over six threads of the canvas.

Bargello was very common in the 17th and 18th centuries, especially for purses, chairs, and furniture. Many beautiful patterns date back to these centuries. Bargello can be done in Persian wool or silk floss. The floss is much more difficult to work well. Most 18th-century pieces of which I have seen photographs are worked in wool. Many chairs using the classic styles of the 18th century are sold upholstered in prints that imitate the bargello that would cover authentic antiques.

In my home I have nine or so pillows I've done and kept for myself as well as a chairback done in a repeating-line pattern of all shades of yellow, creme, and white. Much of the pleasure of working a bargello pillow, however, is planning the pillow as a gift for someone with their favorite colors and taste in mind. Bargello is extremely flexible, and one can create immensely diverse effects by varying color, pattern, and the size of the canvas upon which one works.

On this site are many of the bargello pieces that I've worked but not all. Often in the race to send out a pillow as a gift, I never photographed the piece. I've organized the site, grouping works by the patterns I've used.

7/3/03 A new note--I have to say that I've learned the value of using real canvas, quality threads, and a professional blocker/backer. Most of my earliest pieces done on plastic canvas have problems now--either the plastic breaks or my hand-done stitches pull out. Lots of my pillows are now in boxes waiting to be repaired or restitched. Some I've "retired" so that they don't get further damaged--the cheap thread is pulling or knobbing up. However, the pieces I did on canvas and had professionally backed still are stunners. Except for the cat hair, they look as great as they did when first made!

8/13/05

Hi!

Thanks for all the nice email!

I lot of people have written to ask me about getting bargello books. I think the best thing is to buy used copies of bargello books published in the 70s and 80s. The internet is driving all of the small used paperback bookshops out of business in my local area (Riverside, CA). I find now that I do better to look for used, out-of-print bargello books online. I like to buy from Amazon.com and ebay.com, but I'm sure there are plenty of other good internet shops out there as well. All of the books I mention on these pages I have found helpful and fun.

Happy stitching!