This stunning design comes from an embroidered bedsheet from the island of Lefkada where it is speculated that the palace of Odysseus—hero of Homer’s Odyssey—was located. Odysseus’ wife, Penelope, was famous for her skill with the needle and it is delightful to imagine her working this beautiful pattern inspired by her garden.
The pattern features sprays of tulips and carnations upon which small doves perch. Outlined by a tiny checkerboard along with a graceful pomegranate and flower border, it is a design that epitomizes the height of Mediterranean folk embroidery. Worked in the traditional palette of red, blue, green, gold, and black, this embroidery will delight the dedicated stitcher and become a treasured family heirloom.
Finished size: 23x23” on 30 count fabric (exclusive of hem)
345 x 345 sts/35746 total sts
 
You will need:
One 36x36” piece 30 count counted thread fabric
DMC Floss:
36 yds 310 black
92 yds 355 terra cotta
26 yds 3012 soft olive green
43 yds 311 navy blue
8 yds 729 old gold