I've never chatted about Milanese before, so why not start with a large, dramatic Milanese stitch?
Milanese stitches are diagonal stitches, typically in groups of four with each stitch one row wider than the previous. The resulting element looks like a triangle or an arrowhead. Today's stitch idea blows this up into a group of six stitches for each triangle.
Let's start with the diagram.
The triangles are in diagonal columns. Every row of an individual triangle aligns with a specific row in the triangle on either side (going in the opposite direction). I use the "total" to determine which stitch (of the triangle) is in the next diagonal column of triangles. In the above example, the total is seven (7). The sixes match to the ones; the fives match to the twos; the fours match to the threes. The "total" counting method helps me easily add subsequent columns and is a real help when adding compensation stitches. Honestly, it keeps me sane. I recommend stitching the triangles first and return to add the accent stitches (the aqua lines).
The stitched sample on Instagram takes this concept one step further by alternating finishes for the diagonal columns of triangles.
See this Instagram photo by @whimsicalstitch * 1 like
The diagram below is the exact same as above, but I changed the color of alternating columns to align it with the stitched sample for clarity.
Since Milanese is a dramatic stitch that stands out, I think it calls for substantial, full coverage threads. The stitched sample uses Very Velvet and Frosty Rays. Both of those threads add a certain puff to the stitched sample. Confetti or Rachelette would be a fun alternative for the Frosty Rays. Right now, I am pondering how fun it could be to use Gloriana's Chenille for the triangles (on 13-mesh).
Other substantial threads, albeit with less puff, are Silk & Ivory, Planet Earth Wool, Planet Earth Silk, or Kreinik Metallics (size 12 or 16). Fyre Werks and Flair are great metallic threads to consider as well. While they may appear lighter weight, they are great threads as they lie flat and wide. They make great accent threads.
These stitch diagrams, along with all other #whimsicalwednesday and #smallspacesunday stitch diagrams, can also be found on a Pinterest board here.
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If you like what you see on this blog, want to learn some very creative decorative stitches, and how to put them all together, whimsicalstitch.com sells stitch guides for Melissa Shirley Designs and Zecca Designs. 28 guides are currently available, including the newest Tea by the Sea, and more are in the pipeline.
I hope you enjoy this stitch and have the perfect spot for it! Enjoy!