Algerian Eye Variation Stitch

Uses:  Isolated stitch, groupings

To stitch, work the long black stitches first.  This should be in one color.  With another colored thread, work the short red, fill-in stitches.   

For a clean hole, you may wish to poke a center hole in the canvas with a large needle or knitting needle.  You do not want to cut a hole.  The center should be open enough to allow the threads to lay neatly in the middle.