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  Fractional Stitches
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Fractional stitches (1/4, 1/2 and 3/4) are simply cross stitches with missing
arms.  They are used to provide a rounded look to a picture (1/4 and 3/4), or
an airy look (1/2).

A chart with many fractional stitches can be much easier to do on linen.  On
aida, the needle needs to punch through the little square in order to complete
the stitch.  This can made somewhat easier by using a small sized needle
(#26).  No "punching through" is needed on linen, as the needle simply goes
between the two threads.

A 1/4 stitch is done by coming up from one corner of the square and going down
in the center.

A 3/4 stitch is most often done by stitching the short arm first, like a
quarter stitch.  It is completed with a 1/2 stitch to make the other two arms.
Note that this is an exception to the rule that all stitches must go in the
same direction, as the long arm of the 3/4 stitch may go either "/" or "\".
There are some occasions where people choose to do the 1/2 stitch first and
anchor it down with the 1/4 stitch, in order to achieve a certain effect.

Frequently, a 1/4 stitch and a 3/4 stitch share a single square.  This means
that a decision is left up to the stitcher.  Which side is the 1/4 and which
the 3/4?

Well, as in just about every other area, this is up to you.  Here are some
different methods.  Each provides its own distinct look.

   ~ If there is a backstitch dividing the two sides, stitch two 1/4 stitches
     and let the backstitch divide them.

   ~ Determine which side is in the foreground of the picture, and make that
     side the 3/4 stitch.  (An exception might be made for very small
     details.)  The backstitch, if any, can lie on top of or outside of the
     long arm.

   ~ If neither side is in the foreground, make the 1/4 stitch in whichever of
     the two colors "gets there" first.  Fill in the 3/4 stitch as you come by
     with the second color.

   ~ Make two 3/4 stitches.

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