Double linked cross stitch

Leviathan linked stitch
Smyrna linked stitch

This canvaswork stitch consists of pairs of cross stitches, further embellished with two vertical and one horizontal line to create a raised rectangle. The rectangles are worked in offset rows to give a bricked effect. It is similar to pairs of double cross stitch (as suggested by their respective names of Leviathan stitch and Leviathan linked stitch).

Crossed

Composite

Filling

Shading

Canvaswork

Double linked cross stitch is generously sponsored by Sandra Perkins

Method

A small raised stitch with a medium pattern repeat. Great texture and very brick like, but slow to work.

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Double linked cross stitch method stage 1 illustration

Double linked cross stitch method stage 1 photograph

Make two cross stitches next to each other, each spanning two by two threads of the canvas. Make sure the top stitch of each runs from bottom left to top right.

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Double linked cross stitch method stage 2 illustration

Double linked cross stitch method stage 2 photograph

Next make a vertical stitch on top of each cross.

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Double linked cross stitch method stage 3 illustration

Double linked cross stitch method stage 3 photograph

Finally make one long horizontal stitch across both crosses (i.e. across four canvas threads) to complete the block.

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Illustration

Double linked cross stitch method stage 4 illustration

Double linked cross stitch method stage 4 photograph

Work the blocks in horizontal rows. The row beneath should start two canvas threads across to give the pattern a bricked look.

Double linked cross stitch

Identifying Double linked cross stitch

This stitch is made of two crossed blocks, linked together. Each pair is worked together.

References

Various Authors, The Royal School of Needlework Book of Embroidery (2018) , p.105