Mini-LeafMini-leaf is one of my favorite stitches. It is a smaller version of the leaf stitch, with a little inset stem. It is more useful as a decorative stitch than the other leaf stitches because you don't immediately think "leaf" when you see it. My sample is worked in #5 pearl cotton with a metallic accent for the stem that is Kreinik #16 braid.
Notice that the diagonal sides overlap. This stitch is fairly easy to compensate because it rays out from the center.
Consider using an overdyed thread for the leaf portion and using a solid thread for the stem to create visual unity. Also remember that you can turn this stitch upside down and sideways: decide which way you want the stem pointing before you decide.
This stitch works well in small to medium areas, including the angel's skirt, packages under a tree, a pathway or wall in an architectural canvas, the saddle blanket of a horse, shingles on a roof. It makes great angel wings, too (reverse the direction on the second side). Try it in several different threads. It can be solid or two colors. Try using twisted threads like pearl cotton and soft threads like floss: it will look very different.
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