This stitch is very
versatile, since it can aim in all four directions. You can use it in groups or
singly. It's a nice pattern because, even though it isn't random, it lets the
viewer's eye move freely within the area. Since you can use it in all four
directions, consider using it in several different places within a piece, but
change the directions. Even though it's a 'leaf' stitch, consider using it for
the various petals of a flower, or randomly for the foliage in a garden.
I find this stitch easier to work in diagonal rows. Because the stitch combines slanted and straight stitches, coverage of the canvas is an issue. My sample is worked in 1 ply of the 3-ply strand Watercolours, which covers okay but not completely. Consider using this stitch in Alpaca or Rainbow Tweed or Burmilana for complete coverage for an animal's coat or for hair. Or use it in 2 plies of silk for the ocean in a blue-green overdye (Thread Gatherers' Mermaid Shimmer is yummy), letting the painted shading show through.
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