The inspiration for this tree is from Mary Maxim 12226 Santa and Tree Candy Holders.
I make templates for patterns I think I may make multiple times. I make the template after I am sure I like the pattern.
The square pieces are the size needed to cut the finished pattern from. I use hot pink for templates to see the contrast easily when I hold the template against the clear canvas to cut it out.
I use pear safety pins to hold all the template pieces for a pattern together.
I also make a stitched example of each of my pattern pieces. The templates and stitched example pieces are kept together in a Ziploc bag.
The nose of my tree is a French knot with two wraps of the yarn around the needle. The three ornaments on top are also French knots with one wrap.
I like to stitch the mouth edge first, then the eyes, then the main color and the French knots last.
