![Adding variation to your punch needle background](https://doodledogprimitives.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/variations.jpg)
There are several ways to add variation to punch needle backgrounds.
In one of my recent patterns,
I used two different DMC embroidery floss colors in the background
in order to create a slight variation.
I chose the main background color
along with a shade barely darker.
Often, sequentially numbered DMC floss are very similar in color.
For example, if you are using DMC color 434,
you might look at color 433 or 435 to be a companion background floss.
Draw the Variation in the Background:
I drew some swirls and curves on the weavers cloth
![Swirls drawn on background](https://doodledogprimitives.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/IMG_2426.jpg)
and punched each of the lines with the darker shade of DMC floss
![Swirls drawn on background](https://doodledogprimitives.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/IMG_2425.jpg)
before filling in the rest with the main background color.
![Swirls drawn on background](https://doodledogprimitives.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/IMG_2427.jpg)
It created very subtle variations in the background of this bunny pattern.
![Easter punch needle pattern](https://doodledogprimitives.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/IMG_2286-768x1024.jpg)
More Ways to Add Variation:
Here are a few other ways you can add variation to punch needle backgrounds.
The easiest way is probably to punch with Valdani floss.
If you enjoy “aging” things with coffee or tea dye baths, try
hand-dyeing the skeins of embroidery floss or dyeing the finished punch needle project.
You can also use two shades of DMC floss in a block style.
See more punch needle tutorials.
Blessings~
Amy