I am working on this month’s stitch explorer -Pattern Darning. Needle weaving Iam yet to start,mixed media and contemporary style Iam yet to comprehend.
Iam using ‘Ikat weave ‘ to help me in exploring this stitch.My first few steps-

first 6 patterns
Iam using perle cotton.it is not producing the effect. I ‘ll start using stranded cotton too[4 strands].This time it is not a band sampler,Just small patterns.
Flora had enquired on embroidering on tunics.I have been working on tunics for some time now.
1st step-choosing the pattern for the tunic.[from fashion shows,magazines etc]
2nd step-Incorprating it to my requirements.
3rd step- choosing fabric ,colours.stitches
4th step-Drawing the pattern on paper.
5th step-tracing or copying the pattern on to fabric.
6th step-colour co ordinating with embroidery strands.
7th step-Actual working on the piece, I spend atleast 2 hours a day on that piece and alternate betwwen large and small projects.
The first 6 steps are done over a period of many weeks[which leaves me with lots of UFO's],
once the piece is designed and ready for embroidery, I work continously till it is completed .
Hope this answers your question.