As those of you know who have entered embroidery for judging, shadowing detracts from the overall look of the composition. This method of Redwork is done with no beginning knots, no visible ending knots, no thread tails and no traveling stitches to shadow through the top. It makes a more clear embroidery picture that will receive accolades from even the fussiest judge.
In the picture above, the view of the two cups is the back of the work. The cardinal, a Teri Tope pattern, is seen from the front of the work.