i've been stitching along on the november #cozybluestitchclub pattern. this mandala has some detailed linework, but the stitching itself is really simple.

so far i've used straight stitch, back stitch, and whipped back stitch -- 2 strands for everything.
i like the way the whipped back stitch adds smoothness and definition, and also creates some nice variation in what could easily be a sea of plain back stitches.

if you're a whipped back stitch fan, it was also a prime player in my merry gold design. that one was our stitch club pattern back in march 2016 and is now available as a kit and patterns!