The Algerian Eye stitch is a basic cross stitch often used in needlework samplers.

It's also known as the Star stitch because of the resemblance to a star.

It's a simple design style rather than an actual stitch as it uses the straight (satin) stitch taken 8 times in a square pattern.

It can be used to form flowers, borders, rows and, of course, stars.

The Star Eyelet stitch is just a variation of the Algerian Eye using 16 stitches instead of 8 as show in the picture above. You can take every fourth stitch a bit longer for added interest.

• Either work on even weave fabric or sketch a square on your fabric the size of your desired star.

• Come up from the back side of your fabric in the center of your square.

• Thinking of a clock, take the either a straight or diagonal stitch as appropriate 8 times starting a 11:00 o'clock, moving clockwise and ending with stitch number 8 at 9:00 o'clock.

• Always stitch from the center out to the next place on your clock.

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• Experiment with over tightening each stitch so that your fabric distorts a bit and emphasizes the center of the star design.

• Try adding a seed bead at each center stitch.

• The Algerian Eye stitch is a good one to do with ribbon although you might not want to pull the ribbon tight.

• Also try variegated and metallic floss for a sparkling effect.

The Star Eyelet Stitch is just a variation of the Algerian Eye using 16 stitches instead of 8. You can take every fourth stitch a bit longer for added interest.