The Design

This is an original design that is very loosely based on a variety of ancient styles, but does not take inspiration from any specific form.  This was not drawn to the scale of the embroidered work.

Transferring the Design

The original design was gridded out, ratio'd, and then transferred based on that to the fabric using chalk.  It was altered slightly to better fit the larger size and fabric once drawn.

Outline Stitch

The outline was then split-stitched on a non-tensioned fabric.  Yarn was used as the thread rather than embroidery floss due to the amount that was necessary for the completed project.

First Hoop Attempt

Working through the first wing it became apparent that non-tension work was going to produce a wavy surface.  A hoop was quickly drafted, but found unwieldy and prone to popping due to the thickness of the fabric.

Second Tension Attempt (And Supervisor)

After a lot of hoop-based frustration a different tension method was found and approved by the house supervisor.  progress sped up significantly without having to reset the hoop every other stitch.

Split Stitch Realization

After looking at the stitch again I came to the realization that I had been doing the stitch backward.  This contributed to the bulk that was building up and the massive amount of yarn this project used, but was corrected at the end.

Secondary and Metallic Fill

The wings were completed with a satin stitch (of a sort), so to complete them the empty spots were filled in with metallic gold floss.  The accent areas and talons were also filled in (using a tighter stitch) and the eyes/ beak were placed on top of the silver.