THE last time the Friends of the Cardinian Embroidery embarked on a big project, 2156 people ended up in stitches.

This time, members of the group are hoping for more as they set about stitching up the shire’s flora and fauna.

The helmeted honeyeater and growling grass frog are among the species that will be embroidered in the piece which will take about two years to complete.

Plenty of blood and sweat went into the last one which depicted the townships of Cardinia, with 2156 people contributing a stitch or two during the two years and two months it took to polish off. It now takes pride of place at the Cardinia Cultural Centre.

Friends of the Cardinian Embroidery president Eleanor Taylor said it was a big job last time around, but she was happy to again co-ordinate such a large scale project.

“My husband took on Chief Commissioner for Scouts so I had to keep myself occupied,” she said with a laugh.

Although, she said, the panels will be a tad smaller this time around.

“We don’t want to knock ourselves out this time.”

The piece will consist of five panels: four landscapes with life-size insects, wildflowers and endangered species in the foreground and other plants, animals and birds shown smaller in the background.

The fifth panel will be a large label explaining the project, embroidered on the canvas – where anyone from the community can add a stitch or two.

Everyone from experienced stitchers and beginners are invited to add their own stitches to the piece this Saturday and Sunday between 10am and 4pm in the Gallery at the Cardinia Cultural Centre.

The group is looking for sponsors, to cover the costs of materials, and good photos of animals and plants to use for the project.

Anyone who can help could call Eleanor on 5944 3645.