Blackwork is one of those things I keep meaning to get to. I love the look of it, and am one of those heretics who'll do it in any old color. I've only done it much on small things, like tree ornaments and cards, but have my eye on some larger projects, like pillows and shirt decoration. Which stitch do you use -- back stitch or Holbein? I've used it in a border around an assisi work piece, too. I love your idea of a ball!

I'll stitch on anything 14 ct and up, but prefer 28-36 (working over two threads generally) because it allows for intense detail if needed: I did a huge map of the British Isles on 28 ct, mostly cross-stitch over two threads but with backstitched buildings that included windows and crenelations over one thread -- best viewed with a magnifier.

Hi im just curious what is blackwork?

Cat

Try googling "blackwork" and "design" to find some on-line examples.
This was a popular technique in the Renaissance, and originally was more free-form than it is now, but was worked in black silk on white linen, hence the name. These days it's a counted thread technique, using a single strand of floss, usually in a backstitch or a double-running stitch (Holbein) which renders the back of the piece identical to the front. To quote Marion Scoular, who's done a book on it, it is "characterized by geometric patterns of varying density. Patterns can be stitched to fill an area partially or completely. ... Its concept is based on comparisons of dark, medium and light patterns." It often has kind of a lace-like appearance, which is what makes it great for collars, cuffs, etc.

I have finally put a link to three pannels of the second ball. They show on the screen about twice the size that they are...
Sharon/Muddy_Paws

Here is a link that might be useful: blackwork pannels

Cute! I like the Algerian eyes on the pineapple -- they have just the right look.