Cross stitching patterns by Funk and Weber Designs

Needlework Nutshell: Pretty Paperclips
	This is a great way to use scraps; many fabrics and fibers can be used. Here, I'm using 18-count monocanvas from Zweigart®, Caron Watercolours (205 Saffron), and a large (2-inch) paperclip.
Step 1: Smyrna Crosses
	Stitch Smyrna crosses the length of your paperclip on canvas, fabric, or other ground material in the colors and fibers of your choice.
Step 2: Satin Stitches
	Stitch satin stitches around crosses, encasing the long sides of outermost wires of the paperclip on the back side of the stitching.
	Step 3: Glue Glue back side of fabric around stitching to secure edges. (I like Gem Tac from Beacon Adhesives because it dries clear, flexible, and non-tacky.)
	Step 4: Trim When the glue is dry, trim fabric edges. I trim through the dried glue.
	Voila! Pretty paperclips. Look around in your stash. Just about any fabric, any fiber, any stitch can be used to trick out a paperclip.
	These are some of the other paperclips I have within reach today. If you're familiar with our bracelets or tags, note the picot edge stitch on some of these. Portable projects. Great use of scraps, doodles, and UFOs. These useful little things are another way to get needlework off the wall and into your life!