Pretty Isn't Enough

How do you choose the canvas to stitch?  Ruth Schmuff of Bedecked and Beadazzled says for her, "Pretty isn't enough."  Instead, she looks for something fun that has room for experimentation.

https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2026/08/pretty-isnt-enough/

If that sounds like something you might enjoy, browse Ruth's blog where she showcases her classes and stitch guides.  Heck, if that makes you run screaming from the room, take a look anyway.  Ruth just might convince you to see needlepoint through her eyes for once.

https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/not-your-grandmothers-needlepoint/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 21, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Needlepoint Destashing on Your Smart Phone

Are you the sort of person who loves haunting the stash sale websites?  Do you have them all bookmarked on your computer and check them during down times, just hoping for that great bargain?  Then Needlepoint Destashing has a trick for you to put their website on your smart phone.

Warning!  This may lead to overspending your budget!  Don't say I didn't tell you that Needlepoint Destashing should be renamed Temptation Central!!!!

You can create a quick launch button that takes you straight to their website from your smart phone just like any other app you use a lot.  This is how you set it up--

On an iPhone or iPad:

1. Open www.NeedlepointDestashing.com in Safari.
2. Tap the Share button.
3. Scroll down and choose Add to Home Screen.
4. Tap Add.

On an Android device:

1. Open www.NeedlepointDestashing.com in Chrome.
2. Tap the three-dot menu.
3. Choose Add to Home screen.
4. Follow the prompts to add it.

That's it.  With this shortcut you are now ready to shop until you drop!

Happy browsing, folks.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 20, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

I Have Clutch Envy

I never liked clutch-style purses much--until I saw this one!

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1545804927226443

Now I want something similar, right down to the Japanese Shigori kimono fabric on the back side. The canvas is from Tapisserie in London who also arranged the finishing.  

https://www.tapisserie.co.uk/

Kudos!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 20, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Patricia Sone Recommends Salt and Pepper

This short video from Patricia Sone tackles the eternal question, do you stitch light colors or dark colors first?  Patricia says she was taught "Salt and Pepper."  In other words, she typcially does the lighter colors first.  She does point out there are exceptions to every rule, of course.  But do white or pale colors first, then tackle the dark colors.

https://www.instagram.com/reels/DcJjVWKBeKB/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 19, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Gay Ann Roger's Annual Sale Starts Thursday

Gay Ann Roger's annual sale of her counted canvaswork designs will open Thursday, October 22, at 8 a.m. California time.  You can see a preview of her two new designs (one large, one small) at her website on October 21.

https://www.gayannrogers.com/index.html

Her new large Armada portrait of Queen Elizabeth 1 will be for sale, as well as some of her redwork samplers.  Other items will be in the sale as well.  Be ready to start shopping at 8 a.m. California time.  Gay Ann's pieces sell out fast, particularly her portraits of royalty.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com 

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright September 23, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.