Walking the Water’s Edge

Bring the Beauty of the Shore to Your Needlepoint with this design by Diane Herrmann!

Are you dreaming of a getaway? Picture yourself strolling along a sunny beach, the waves gently washing over the sand to reveal a delicate starfish. With this intermediate canvas design, you’ll capture the movement of the ocean and the shimmer of sunlight on water—all with needle and thread.

This design has been a favorite among stitchers for years! Over 1,700 students have stitched this piece in workshops, both in person and over Zoom. Now, as it “retires” from the classroom, it’s available exclusively through the National Academy of Needlearts so even more stitchers can experience its beauty.

What you’ll learn:
  • Using a Bargello Stitch pattern and floss shading techniques to create the soft curves of waves.
  • Stitching freeform eyelets to mimic the foamy edge of the water.
  • Adding beads to bring a touch of sparkle to the waves.
  • Mastering the Bullion Knot Stitch to place a charming starfish on the shore.

Purchase the instructions for $40 and bring this stunning design to life with materials available from your local or online shop.

How to order the instructions forWalking the Water’s Edge:
  1. Download the order form (Microsoft Word format). Complete all fields/questions in the form and save to your computer’s desktop.
  2. Attach the completed form to an email message and send it to treasurer@needleart.org. 
  3. The NAN Treasurer will send a PayPal invoice to your email address. Follow the instructions in the email for payment of the $40 fee by credit card or PayPal.
  4. Monitor your email inbox for communication from NAN; once your payment is received, you can expect to receive the instructions in PDF format within 7 days of payment. If not, send a follow-up email to treasurer@needleart.org.

Diane Herrmann holds Master Teachers’ Certification in canvas embroidery from NAN and is currently NAN’s Director of Teachers’ Certification. She is also a member of ANG, EGA, and NETA, and has taught nationally and for local and regional guilds and chapters. Her work has received several prestigious awards and honors. As a retired University of Chicago mathematics instructor, Diane often uses math concepts as inspiration for her designs and presentations. She also has a special interest in textiles from the Maya tradition. www.dianeherrmann.com