After loading your canvas onto stretcher bars or in a scroll frame, work the foundation of the design. This foundation will provide stitching landmarks for working the entire project.
The foundation is stitched from basic needlepoint stitches. Instructions for these stitches are available by clicking the underlined blue hyperlinks for each stitch.
Start your stitching by using a waste knot, trimming the knot after each section is completed.
Work the yellow areas in Thread D in Continental Stitch.
Work the blue bars in Thread A in Cross Stitch over 2 intersections of canvas.
Work the green outer border in Thread C in Continental Stitch.
Working this foundation first will help you work the Jessicas, which can be difficult to space and navigate without landmarks.
NOTE: Unless otherwise specified, the tapestry needle will be used for all stitching except the beading, and always anchor your thread when you stop or start in an area worked in Continental Stitch.