Push-Pull Compensation

A reader asked for pictures to better explain push-pull compensation.

When fill stitches change direction, the stitches pull slightly on the fabric. Where fill stitches lay side-by-side, they push against each other, and stretch the fabric slightly. This is the push-pull effect. To compensate, underlayment stitches are added, going ninety degrees from the direction of the fill. The looser underlayment stitches (shown below in pink) stitch first to help stabilize the fabric.

A well-crafted design will compensate for the push-pull effect by adjusting the shape of the fill area and outline so there are no gaps. More on this in the next issue.

Next issue: compensation on shapes

from Mary Jane Allen of Perfect Little Stitches

A reader warns that birds can become entangled in threads. If you want to leave threads for nest building, snip them into bits 1" or shorter.

Missed an issue of the StitchFun News? Check out the Archives Page.

The designs and instructions for
the first row of the Appliqué Bear
Quilt are available this week.

Click here to see the instructions
on the Heart N Sole site.

Download the third design here.

These designs are an exclusive
offer from Tee of Heart N Sole to
readers of the StitchFun News.

Check the Archives for
any missed designs.

Still time to make a
wonderful keepsake
for your grad! If you
want to make a quick
gift, use the front and
back covers of this
book to make a card.
The back page has a
pocket for cash or a
giftcard. Or how about
a car key! Maybe not?
Oh, well, they will enjoy
the card for years to
come when you add a
special photo!