The Halloween Tree Revealed

Ruth's mystery class for the Halloween Tree is over, but in closing she's taught us how to do Tribble hair. ROFLMAO
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2011/10/happy-halloween.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Halloween Parade at CH Stitch Guides Blog

This morning a new article appeared on the Chilly Hollow Stitch Guides blog. It's Halloween-themed and darling.  Here's the link.
http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com/2011/10/halloween-parade.html 


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Pixies from RuthLand

Ruth Schmuff and Vicky DeAngelis have collaborated to create a charming pixie who does dishes! Ok, maybe not but it sure is cute enough to come live in Chilly Hollow whether it helps with the housework or not!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2011/10/pssst-ill-tell-you-secret.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Ladies of the Night

Luna:  Lady of the Night Unfinished

As a special Halloween celebration, I have some of the wonderful Leigh Designs' Ladies of the Night series, all stitched up and ready to inspire us all with ideas for our own Halloween canvases. First of all, I've linked to the unstitched canvases so you can see them all. Leigh always designs a series of eight canvases, which gives plenty of options to choose from.  I'm working on Luna, even though she's been put away for almost a year when family crises got in the way.  I'll be working on her this fall after Christmas stitching is done.  (Note to self:  Stitch FASTER!)
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Grp513x.html

The first finished canvas is of Esme, who wears a beaded gown (Luna's gown is only beaded at the bottom) and has the most marvelous pillar and candle--that candle wax is inspired!  Esme's got smashing jewelry and gorgeous hair.  I suspect if we could see this in person the red curtains in the background would also be beautiful.  The photo isn't quite clear enough for me.  Leona Cole of The Stitch Niche in Mississippi is the stitcher of this masterpiece.  Think she'd let me borrow this for a while to study?  I'll give it back.  Eventually.  Really I will.
http://www.LeighDesigns.com/Mdl5132.html

Daria is the next finished piece.  (I'm listing them in the order they appear on the Leigh website to make you finding a photo of the unstitched canvas a bit easier.)  This has always been a favorite canvas.  I just love the black cat!  Daria wears a gorgeous patterned gown and has the best manicure of the bunch.  I particularly like the couched metallic spiral on the broken pillar and the velvety look of the cat with the jewel eyes.  Daria's ring is simple and I think that enhances the overall look of this piece since it doesn't detract from the cat's eye or the fabulous beaded girdle she wears.  Take a careful look at the background of this piece.  The zigzag pattern is both quiet and dynamic, a wonderful combination!  Sally London of Rainbow Gallery is the creative mind behind this great canvas.
http://www.LeighDesigns.com/Mdl5134.html

Our final vamp vampire is Beth Hendzilik's Remilia.  I was thrilled to see this photograph as the gauzy curtains on either side of the canvas were not shown in earlier versions I've seen.  The curtain tie backs are inspired, as is the little spider hiding in the curtain folds!  That spider was obviously inspired by the web that you can just see glistening on the right side or Remilia.  She wears the most marvelous Russian shawl, which I am told was inspired by the ones the designer SharonG takes to the trade shows.  Wish I could see that shawl better. Maybe I have to borrow this design, too?  Heck, I'll just need all three, please!
http://www.LeighDesigns.com/Mdl5137.html

I think the background is unstitched here.  The hair is just fabulous and the sleeves are fascinating.  My Luna's sleeves are unstitched so I find these particularly interesting in that they are done with such a light touch they are gray, not black like her sisters' outfits.

Beth works for ThreadworX and created a stitch guide for her version which comes with the thread kit from ThreadworX so you have everything you need.  Add canvas and you'll have a Lady of the Night to haunt our dreams as well.
http://www.threadworx.com/productDetails.php?prd_id=1087

It is great fun to study all three ladies and see how the similar elements of black dress with tattered sleeves, the flowing hair and the backgrounds are handled.  Each stitcher has put her unique stamp on the designs with the elements that are different--the spider web, the cat on the pillar and the candle in its skull holder.  Needlepoint is really art in the hands of these master stitchers.

Happy Halloween!


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Sampler Alert: The Betty Ring Sampler Sale and Catalogue

I'm not a sampler fiend. Actually, it took me years to realize that those who like to stitch repo samplers are actually using them as a sort of time machine to visit our stitching ancestors and explore their world. If you are a sampler lover, you'll want to read about the sale of Betty Ring's collection and the catalogue that Sotheby's is going to print to go along with the sale. Mrs. Ring's collection is very important and has samplers that aren't in her books so anyone who enjoys her books will want to pick up a copy of the catalogue if possible.  Pre-ordering sounds like a very good idea to me.  It didn't take Betty's books long to become very very expensive.  The catalogues will likely go the same route so act now.
http://thistle-threads.com.mytempweb.com/blog/index.php/2011/10/betty-ring-collection-auction-catalog/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Halloween Monthly Clubs

Because it is that time of year (and because, this being my blog, I can) I have listed the Halloween-themed monthly clubs that you can join or sign up for next year.  First is the Needle Deeva Creeps set, with stitch guides by Robin King.  Here's the smug devil.  LOL
http://bristlythistle.blogspot.com/2011/10/creepy-devil.html

You can see the entire set here.  Sign up at any shop on the list of participants.  However, if you are interested in stitching Bones, this is an exclusive Creep at Ruth Schmuff's shop (second link).
http://www.needledeeva.com/creepy_characters.html

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2011/08/what-says-halloween-more-than-robin.html

Speaking of Ruth, she loves Halloween and has collaborated with Kelly Clark for the sweet Halloween treats club.  If you scroll down farther, you'll see the Halloween tree ornaments club that Ruth did 2-3 years ago.  Those are still available if you need something spooky for a tree in your haunted mansion.
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/clubs.php

Chandail has done the Kelly Clark witch hats and also Associated Talents' candy corn ornaments.  They plan a Halloween club for next year using the poison bottles from Kirk and Hamilton.  Nothing is up on their website yet for the bottles but the other two series are on their website and still available.
http://www.chandailneedlework.com/

Needlenook of La Jolla offers the Kelly Clark bat ornaments as one of their monthly clubs.  The candy apples club from the same designer has a lot of Halloween-themed ornaments as well.
http://www.needlenookoflajolla.com/events/cod/index.html

Thread Garden has Boo Whooo?, the Cheryl Schaeffer Halloween pumpkin ornament club.  In a twist, you never know which pumpkin will arrive in the next installment.
http://thethreadgarden.com/Canvas_Shoppe/Pages/Boo_Whooo%21_Ornament_of_the_Month.html

Pocket Full of Stitches has done quite a few Halloween-themed clubs over the years.  You can do one of the Halloween Parties (either the monsters or the kids dressed up in costumes) and add the backdrop for each if you choose.  There's also the Raymond Crawford (I think) Haunted Windows that spell out Halloween, the Trick or Treat banner, and the Halloween letter ornaments with their pumpkin and scaredy cat.  Most of the designs are from A Collection of Designs I believe, although not all are credited on the PFOS website.
http://www.pfos.com/ChristmasClubs/clubs.htm

Fancy Stitches has the fun Kathy Schenkel Halloween stars.  Since they also offer her Christmas and Thanksgiving stars, you can stick to a star theme for all your holiday decorating.
http://www.fancystitches.com/page3.html

The final club I found for you Halloween decorators is the Halloween treat pail club from Needle Deeva at Beeth's Needlepoint.  If you have already done some Needle Deeva Halloween and need more, this is the club for you.
http://bethsneedlepoint.com/Dot_ClubsExec.asp?idClubCategory=6

See?  There's no excuse for not stitching Halloween to decorate a scary house for Halloween 2012!


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

It's Snowing UPDATED

Autumn (and winter) is here

The weather forecast calls for 4-8 inches of snow in Chilly Hollow today. Already the power is starting to flicker so I'm hurrying to make coffee, fill the dog water bowls, charge the iPod, get the house warmed up, etc. in case the power goes.  Since the leaves are still on the trees, the snow will weigh limbs down and trees will fall, knocking out the power lines.  The photo above was taken last Wednesday.

Not to worry, Blog has articles ready to publish whether I am able to get online tomorrow or not.  The only change you will see is the Canvas of the Day isn't updated if I am involuntarily off line.  So I chose Kirk and Hamilton's Ice Crown for the canvas today.  It seems appropriate!
http://www.needlenookoflajolla.com/storedir/proddetail.php?prod=kh345&cat=26

Now I am going to go listen to the furnace run and think about what I will stitch today.  I'm staying put!

UPDATE:  Our power went out Saturday at 8:45 a.m. and stayed off until Monday morning at 4:45 a.m.  The running furnace woke me so I got up, flushed the toilets, gave the dogs fresh water, made coffee in the coffee maker (Heaven!) and generally got things in order so that I could do laundry and wash dishes and take a shower later on before emptying the frig of spoiled food.  Luckily the freezer items are still frozen.  Later today we'll use the chain saw to cut up and remove the four huge limbs and one tree trunk that have blocked the driveway so we can get out.  It's no fun living without electricity, TV, Internet, running water, or heat but we coped, as always.


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Having Fun with Fall

If you happen to be in New Jersey, you can "have fun with fall" at Ridgewood Needlepoint in Ridgewood (duh) on November 6 when they are having an all day event and stitch in.  Here are the details.
http://www.ridgewoodneedlepoint.com/events.htm


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Second Lilly Pulitzer Event UPDATED

The Lilly Pulitzer Legacy Village had so much fun with their stitch in using Barbara Bergsten's pink and green design, they've decided to repeat the event, this time with an A-line shift dress ornament in the famous colors and Barbara's stitch painted patterns.  If you were kicking yourself for missing the first event, you have a second chance in early November.  Details here.
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2011/10/lilly-lovers-needlepoint.html




UPDATE:  Here are photos from the second event and the date for the third.  Mark your calendars!
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2011/11/lilly-lovers-needlepoint.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Decorating for Halloween

I've been collecting stories about needlepoint Halloween decorations for you. Robin takes us back in time to revisit some of her Halloween stitching.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/10/halloween-decorations-from-robin-part-1.html

She uses one of her cats for inspiration in decorating.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/10/halloween-decorations-from-robin-part-2.html

She also recommends we visit florists for Halloween ornament stands.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/10/halloween-decorations-from-robin-part-3.html?mid=508

At Robin's house, treat bags are wonderfully stitched!
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/10/halloween-decorations-from-robin-part-4.html

There's a haunted house at her place, too.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/10/halloween-decorations-from-robin-part-5.html

Did you know pull toys were scary?  LOL
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/10/halloween-decorations-from-robin-part-6.html

http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/10/halloween-decorations-from-robin-part-7.html

http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/10/halloween-decorations-from-robin-part-8.html

The Colorado Stitcher uses her newest Halloween piece to show how much outlining adds to a piece and how to spook your brother.
http://acoloradostitcher.blogspot.com/2011/10/more-halloween-stitching.html

http://acoloradostitcher.blogspot.com/2011/10/flat-fold-frank-n-stein.html

Pam Pabst patterns spook everyone at Kitten's house!
http://stitchingwithkittens.blogspot.com/2011/10/boo-ti-ful-boo-ti-ful.html

Linda is ready for any goblins that drop by on October 31st.
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2011/09/no-denise-its-halloween.html

Meredith has a lighted pumpkin holding her haunted house!
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2011/10/meredith-is-ready-for-halloween.html

Melinda's just gotten a lot of Halloween pieces back from the finisher and new projects have arrived for next year's Halloween stitching.
http://melindaslivingthegoodlife.blogspot.com/2011/10/abundance-of-needlepoint-this-week.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

The Haunted Lighthouse

Anne Stradal is starting to stitch her latest lighthouse design model--and it's haunted! Really.
http://thecapestitcher.blogspot.com/2011/10/sailing-into-halloween.html

http://thecapestitcher.blogspot.com/2011/10/another-foggy-sky.html

http://thecapestitcher.blogspot.com/2011/10/sturdy-tower.html

http://thecapestitcher.blogspot.com/2011/10/spook-tacular-finish.html

Anne's haunted Seguin Island lighthouse is the perfect Halloween story. Thanks for sharing!


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

The Newest (Youngest?) Designer

Ruth Schmuff has discovered a new designer among her customers. Katey is doing wallet-sized mood license plates, camouflage patterns and nail polish bottles that just scream BEADS! to me. Want something different? Katey's RUN designs are worth checking out by clicking the link to Ruth's online shop.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2011/10/needlepoint-for-next-generation.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Ruler for Needlepoint

No, I've not crowned myself Queen of the NP World. I'm talking about a ruler, a measuring stick that Orna Willis found that allows you to measure your piece and learn the number of stitches along a side. It's a real wonder! Here are the details on the E-Z Count Needlepoint-Ruler.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2011/10/why-wasnt-i-told.html

You can buy one from Orna's website and at other places, too.
http://ornadesign.com/v2/shop/notions/


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Nominate Your Favorite Halloween Canvas

Whether we actually stitch Halloween themed needlepoint or not, we all have seen them everywhere. I know there's a canvas you secretly love, find hilarious, memorable, or just dream of stitching One Day.  I thought it would be fun to nominate our favorite Halloween canvases. Lots easier and quicker than actually stitching them!  Let me start with a nomination for the oddest Halloween canvas I've ever seen--the Yoga Witch from Bongo.
http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.com/index.php/canvas/holiday/halloween/yoga-witch.html

I find the Dashing Devil from Needle Deeva hilariously smug.  This is the full figure, not the candy corn shaped ornament in the Creeps series.
http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.com/index.php/canvas/holiday/halloween/dashing-devil.html


Melissa Shirley's "Pumpkin Pie" in her vintage postcard series for Halloween is a sweet and sentimental approach to the holiday.  All of the little girls in the series are darling but this one is my favorite.
http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.com/index.php/canvas/holiday/halloween/pumpkin-pie.html


If you like more modern, clean designs (and have teenagers or are one at heart), you'll love Stella and Dot from Mile High Princess.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/news-and-updates/things-we-love/

Well, enough about me.  What Halloween canvases have caught your eye?


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Kamikaze Girls

Beloved and I are big movie watchers and recently stumbled across a cult film from Japan in which embroidery is central to the plot. It's called Kamikaze Girls in the United States and is subtitled. I can highly recommend it for both stitching and non-stitching audiences.  We rented the DVD through Netflix but you might find it via Amazon's movie offerings or other places.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0416220/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Threadaholics Alert!

Ridgewood Needlepoint has just announced a thread sale.  Skeins are $1.00 each.  No pushing or shoving necessary, just check their website to see what threads are available.
http://www.ridgewoodneedlepoint.com/thread-240.htm

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Backgrounds in Blackwork

Janet Perry just posted about using blackwork patterns for backgrounds on her blog. 
http://www.nuts-about-needlepoint.com/blackwork-as-backgrounds

Both blackwork and darning patterns make nice backgrounds but be careful.  Not every thread is suited for this, so you have to choose not only the right color but the right weight/diameter of the thread.  You also have to be very careful to anchor your threads well and use long lengths to stitch with so that you don't find yourself having to end/begin a thread in the middle of a long row.

I've also found it difficult to work a blackwork pattern on top of tent stitches.  Perhaps it is just me, but counting out a pattern on top of tent stitches is much harder than counting out a pattern on bare needlepoint canvas.  I'm not saying don't use these patterns;  I'm just saying they are not like regular background stitches.

Joan Thomasson uses a lot of blackwork-type patterns on the dresses of her angel ornaments.  She recommends using less thread for the tent stitch base under the patterns and that seems to work well for me.  If you are not familiar with Joan's angels, you can see a great many of them on her website.
http://www.stitchinstuff.com/ProductCategories.aspx


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Where to Find Unusual Needle Magnets

I've been thinking about matching my magnets to my canvas since I found out all the Cool Kids are doing it. After all, you guys see photos of my stitching, not photos of me in my old sweat pants, older lime green Crocs and whatever turtleneck is clean. If I have the right magnet, you'll think I am Audrey Hepburn reborn!

So I'm looking for just the right Asian-themed magnet. During this search, I've come across lots of unusual magets. I've not found a geisha or Buddha or temple magnet (yet) but if you are looking, too, you might like to visit these links.  Our first stop is Nordic Needle to see the animal chart magnets.  Each magnet in the pair is one half of an animal.  I'm not sure how strong the magnets are since they are made to hold a chart on your fabric, but wouldn't it be fun to have the option of putting your duck butt on top of the canvas when you are having a bad day?  Those designer owl magnets are gorgeous, by the way.  Take a browse and see all sorts of fun magnets in the six pages of magnets at this link.
http://www.nordicneedle.com/ctgy/E39-00-00.html

If you like to stitch flowers or nature canvases, Stitchery's dragonfly, flower or shell magnets are right up your alley.
http://www.stitchery.com/itemdy00.asp?T1=T51557&srccode=NXCTC6&utm_source=google&utm_medium=comparison&utm_campaign=datafeed

If you like the primitive country art of designers like Ewe and Eye, then the Mill Hill button magnets are for you.  While you are here, don't miss the Stitchaholic t-shirt, the beaded needle threaders, the Puffin metallic needle minders, or the I Love Cats/Dogs ceramic needle minders.
http://downsunshinelane.com/accessories.htm

By the way, Puffin's latest needle magnets include one of a mermaid.
http://needleshow.com/cgi-bin/detailc.pl?581-puf204-04

Texas Hill Country has a whole series of magnetic needle minders that are totally unique. Check out the blue polka dot dress, the dog paw prints and bone magnets, the fat yellow bird, the ghost, the sweet little hearts, the fabulous owl, and the patriotic Texas magnet.  At $5 each, you can have several unusual magnets to dress up that canvas.  There's even a snail for those of us who are s-l-o-w stitchers.  How fun is that?
http://www.texashillcountryceramics.com/index.cfm/fa/categories.main/parentcat/26206/endrw/0


There's a magnet for every canvas, even if I haven't found my geisha magnet yet.  If you have a favorite, why not post a link in the comments or email me at chilly hollow at hot mail dot com?  I'll post it for you.


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Today's Accessories Day

Since we are talking needle cases and tassels, we might as well talk scissor fobs, right? Pocket Full of Stitches is having an unusual trunk show of fobs from Accoutrement Designs (they make needle minder magnets, too).  These are very pretty and also functional if you are always loosing your scissors in your chair, the bottom of your stitching bag, etc.  Besides, it is nice to have something pretty to decorate your scissors.  The fobs are 20 percent off during the trunk show which ends the end of the month, so check out the photos and give PFOS a call.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/10/accoutrement-designs.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Make Your Own Tassel Instructions

DMC has taken pity on those of us who missed the Christmas finishing deadlines and are attempting to make up ornaments and pillows ourselves. (I've done it so you know it isn't that hard!) They have posted instructions on making basic tassels to dangle from an ornament, give to the cat as a distraction toy, or put on your pillow corners. It's easy and fun and something worth knowing.
http://dmc-threads.com/basic-tassle/


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Needle Cases From the Past

EGA's blog is featuring old needle cases from their collection. The variety is astounding!
http://www.egausa.org/scripts/blog/?p=228


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Cache Pots for the Cat Topiary Garden

Two Cache Pots

I decided the next area I would tackle on the cat topiary garden would be the two big cache pots that flank the garden gate.  I had the perfect thread--a beautiful overdyed silk 12-ply floss from Gloriana called Deep Blue Sea.  The photo above shows the left cache pot with the stitch I choose from Brenda Hart's Favorite Stitches, page 35 underway.  This stitch isn't named in Brenda's book but I have seen it other places.  It is done in two steps:  first the framework which you see above, then the circles are filled with straight stitches.


Careful study of the photo will show you that the right pot has a different thread.  Yes, when I stitched the left pot framework, I discovered the Gloriana silk that looked so perfect in the skein had too much green in it to actually work well for the pots.  So I switched to two shades of medium blue in DMC cotton floss for the right pot.  The lighter blue that makes up the bulk of the cache pot on the right is 825 but I used the darker 311 for the edges of the pot where the paint is darker.  I stitched the framework and the central circles in the correct shade of DMC cotton to echo the shading on the big jar.

Right Cache Pot Finished

The final area to stitch in the cache pots is the lip around the top, which I did in padded satin stitches.  The second photo shows the right cache pot finished.  I pulled out my Gloriana silk from the left cache pot and hope to have it stitched by the time you read this.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

HeartStrings Limited Edition Santas

Did you know that HeartStrings has released the last limited edition Santa in their series?  Pat Thoade wants to retire!  Did you know that Thread Garden is having an Artists Collection trunk show and has one of each of all of the limited edition folk art Santas for sale at the trunk show twenty percent off discount?  I couldn't get the link to the Limited Edition Santas on the Artists Collection to work but maybe it'll be working again by the time this publishes. Or maybe the link has been turned off as these designs disappear when they sell out....
http://www.artistscollection.net/Artists_Collection/HeartStrings_Gallery.html

These designs aren't on the Thread Garden website but you can email to inquire about the year's Santa you want.
http://thethreadgarden.com/Home.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Laura Plays with Leaves

Laura Perin's newest fall design is a winner.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2011/10/need-pile-of-leaves-to-play-in.html

http://stores.intuitwebsites.com/ScarletThread/-strse-3126/charted-needlepoint%2C-canvaswork%2C-Laura/Detail.bok


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

The Needlework Show is On Line

Pumpkin and Crows Needle Minder

Each fall The Needlework Show opens online. This is a wholesale only, online shopping extravaganza for shops who don't want the expense of traveling to the trade shows. As a regular stitcher you can't order from the show but you can browse and then ask your favorite shop to order for you. Here's the link to the show.  Many of the vendors are cross stitch or counted thread companies, but there are treats from companies like Sudberry and Nature's Palette whose boxes and canvases respectively delight stitchers everywhere.  The needle minder above is the latest magnet from Kelmscott.  And of course if you need scissors with ghosts or candy canes or mermaids on them, Uncommon Scissors is the place to go!
http://www.needleworkshow.com/cgi-bin/stitcherlist.pl


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

From Molehill to Mountain Counted Canvaswork Class UPDATED

Pam Gardener's From Molehill to Mountain piece is going to be a cyberclass through Scarlet Thread. The color options and description of what's involved is on the Scarlet Thread blog if you are interested in taking this color theory/stitch variation class.
http://stitchything.blogspot.com/2011/10/from-molehill-to-mountain-cyberclass.html

Here's a bit about the booklet that you use to create the design.
http://stores.intuitwebsites.com/ScarletThread/-strse-3056/charted-needlepoint,-canvaswork,-Pam/Detail.bok

You can see an award-winning color variation here in case you are tempted but need inspiration.
http://www.needleart.org/Exemplary05/FromMolehillToMountain.php

UPDATE:  Jan's posted a photo of her finished version.  It's lovely in greens.
http://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2011/10/25/thank-you-plus-from-molehill-to-mountain/


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Diamond Eyes

Counted canvaswork lovers will be interested to see the newest Threedles design, which will be released in November.  You can see three colorways of Diamond Eyes at the bottom of the Threedles website.
http://threedles.com/06012011/Current%20Year%20Designs/WhatsNew2011.html#Diamond_Eyes

Whether you are into counted designs or not, you'll love the interesting hints posted on the Threedles.  Many are new ideas to me, and I'm not exactly new to needlepoint, so I know you'll love seeing what Kurdy Biggs has invented to make her stitching better.
http://threedles.com/06012011/Hints.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Card Decks and Monthly Clubs

Were you charmed by the decks of cards at the ANG Seminar which were adorned with stitch diagrams? Looks like Needle Works has decks in stock. http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2011/10/we-have-all-said-it.html

By the way, the same article shows one of the Kelly Clark angels of the month that will be a monthly club at the shop this year.  More information is available on Needle Works' website.
http://theneedleworks.com/

The Canvasback has announced their monthly club for 2012.  It's a creche by Kathy Schenkel.  Each tiny figure is cuter than the next.  The second link has slightly larger figures of some of the stitched canvases.
http://www.canvasback-needlepoint.com/clubnews.php

http://www.canvasback-needlepoint.com/classes.php

The Knotted Needle in Grosse Pointe, Michigan is starting their very first monthly club and it is a doozy--the Monster Mash set from Labors of Love.  Click on the link and start giggling at their renditions of Dracula, the Bride of Frankenstein (LOVE your hair!), King Tut and more.
http://www.knottedneedle.com/


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Needlepoint Game Boards

It is not easy to find a needlepoint canvas that you can use to play checkers or chess or backgammon these days, but finding the boards is even harder. Not to worry. Tish at Needlepoint Tool Time has found a source for chess, tic tack toe, or checkers boards.
http://www.needlepointtooltime.com/category/22868497


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

The Monthly Stars Report

Liz and Jan have posted updates on their Stars for the New Millennium designs. They are working together but in very different colors, which makes for fascinating viewing. The colors they each choose make each Stars block different because the colors emphasize different parts of the pattern.  Here is Jan's Deborah Kerr block.
http://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2011/10/13/stars-of-the-new-millennium-deborah-kerr/


And here is Liz's finished Deborah Kerr.  I just noticed that they are not doing the tiny stars where the block sashing meet but are doing the borders as they work the blocks.  I did just the opposite--all my little sashing corner stars were done first thing but I'm not going to do the outside borders until last.  Everyone works differently, but I found the borders too confusing to work in a stop and start again fashion.  That threw my count off.
http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2011/10/stars-for-new-millenium-progress-9.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Stitching Destashing

Friday is always sale day at the Stitching Destashing Blog. Disclaimer: Pat is selling three canvases of mine, but there are lots of fun things available that didn't come from my stash. The prices are great and perhaps something there belongs to your stash?  Time to go see!
http://stitchingdestashing.blogspot.com/


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Donate Needlepoint, Teach Needlepoint

Rittenhouse Needlepoint in Philadelphia has developed an unusual approach to teaching needlepoint.  They are asking for donations of supplies (and teaching time if you'd like to pitch in) to teach needlepoint to those who face economic, physical or mental challenges.  Here are the details.  Talk to Rittenhouse if you can help.
http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.com/index.php/charity


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

The Delight of Finishing

As we all know, the final step in our stitching is making up our needlepoint into something fabulous. Today I have some wonderful finishing for you to enjoy. The Kelly Clark crazy quilt pillow will be in Needlepoint Now soon. The other pieces will go to their owners to grace their houses with something unique and hand made, which I think is important in this mass produced age.  Enjoy all the beauty that is being shared in the links below.
http://kellyclarkneedlepointhandbook.blogspot.com/2011/10/crazy-finishing.html

http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2011/10/just-in-from-finishers.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Deco Kitty Class Report (Filmed!)

Most of the time when folks excitedly report on a class they've taken, it is the students talking. This time it's the teacher!  Vicky DeAngelis takes us with her to her Deco Kitty class at BeStitched in Arizona.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/10/15/bestitched-and-deco-kitty/

http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/10/16/bestitched-where-needlepoint-magic-happens/

Deco Kitty is a SharonG canvas.  You can see the rest of the series on her website.  Here's the original-Dog Walk and Cat Walk.  Deco Kitty is a reworked, simpler version of Dog Walk.
http://www.sharong.com/catalog/landscape/landscape2.html

Here's Cats Night Out.
http://www.sharong.com/catalog/landscape/landscape4.html

By the way, BeStitched filmed Vicky as she was teaching and has posted two short videos on their website.  One is about laying threads without a laying tool (railroading) and the other is on lassoing beads.  Vicky's technique is perfection so you know you want to see these.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/news-and-updates/deco-kitty-videos/


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Get Ready for a Big Sale

Stitch Niche in Mississippi has announced a 50 percent off sale on painted canvases for this Saturday, October 22. Any in stock canvas (except for the brand new designs and any New Orleans themed piece) will be in the sale. The details and restrictions are here in their newsletter. Hope they have the canvas of your dreams!
http://www.needlepointyaya.com/Newsletter_files/September2011.pdf


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Beading Variety for Needlepoint (with Crocodile)

Yesterday I stumbled across two new sources of beads, mostly semi-precious stone beads and mother of pearl shapes, but including the crocodile bead mentioned in the title of this Blog entry. (Click on Miscellaneous, then choose Semi-Precious Beads.)
http://www.accesscommodities.com/products

Here's the second place, Beadcats.  The styles and types and sizes of beads available from all over the Internet is mind-boggling!
http://www.beadcats.com/catalog/seed/beadcard.htm

So are the ways you can use beads on your canvas.  Don Lynch of Associated Talents has invented a way to make your beads look like basketweave.  Look carefully at the pink and red hearts on top of the two heart ornaments here.  These are two of Don's canvases using this technique.
http://stitcherie.ning.com/photo/athe-801-807-809?context=user

Beaded Bird from Leigh Ladies of the Night:  Luna

You can use brick stitch to bead areas.  Here's Luna's bird, totally beaded this way in two colors of beads.  If you are using multiple colors, use the same size and style (round, hex, cylinder shaped, etc.) beads for all the colors.
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2011/03/other-bird.html

Robin King has a great tutorial on beaded brick stitch at the Needlepoint Study Hall website.  This is exactly how I did my bird in the link above.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2010/04/beading-pumpkin-balloon.html

If you just need a bead here or there, use the lasso technique. Needlepoint Now has a nice video that illustrates this technique.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cq3G6YKTyMU

If you want to use beads for features, such as a cat's eyes and mouth, Robin has illustrated how to use cross stitches to make your beads line up in straight lines.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2010/01/bead-lesson-with-geography.html

If you need dimension in your beading, try Julia Snyder's messy beading technique. Essentially, you string a series of beads on your thread, then go down into your canvas leaving them as a loop of beads on top.  The link below shows messy beading, with a lot of beads in a row instead of a loop.  Use the last bead as a stop and go down through the row with your needle again.\ to the back.  The stop bead on the end will hold the row.
http://theneedlebug.com/2011/10/seemed-kinda-crazy/

Beaded Pumpkin from Leigh's Smilin' Jack Fash Insert

Sundance Needlepoint has pioneered using beads for the tent stitches in a complex stitch.  If you look at the pumpkin on my Smilin' Jack piece, it is stitched in Serendipity Stitch with beads taking the place of the tent stitches in that compound stitch.
http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com/2011/08/smilin-jack-stitch-guide-available.html  

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Thirty Years Today UPDATED

Needle Nicely in Vero Beach, Florida has been open thirty years! HURRAH!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!


To celebrate, everything in the shop is 25 percent off from October 17-22.  With the charges that credit cards put on shop owners, that will work out to over 30 percent off.  Isn't that more fun that eating cake?  Ok, maybe not if there's ice cream, too, but it is still a lovely way to celebrate a shop that has endured and inspired stitchers for so long.
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2011/10/30th-anniversary-sale.html

UPDATE:  Mary Agnes reflects on what she would like her shop to be most remembered for:  the use of color.
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2011/10/businessdesign-philosophy-i.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

WHAT THE HECK!?!?!

"Needlepoint string"? 
http://www.bhg.com/christmas/gifts/holiday-food-gifts-recipes-tins/#page=14 

Looks like it's not just math, grammar, science and logic our students aren't learning.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Cat Topiary Garden: Bricks and Mortar

Progress on dede Odgen's Cat Topiary Garden

I've been working various areas of the cat topiary garden, putting off going back to the topiaries for now since they are wearing on my nerves. (The next time I decide to stitch a piece this large with this much similar background, someone please shoot me.)  The first thing I did after I finished stitching the sleeping cat was to stitch the yellow mortar lines in the brick border. I used a slightly tan thread (Impressions 1115) instead of the bright yellow that is painted since I don't particularly like the yellow color. That took several nights to stitch all around the border. After that, I returned to the cat and stitched the dark brick the cat sleeps on using plain old mosaic stitch and one ply of Gloriana's Lorikeet wool.  Here's mosaic stitch--
http://www.needlepoint.org/StitchOfTheMonth/1999/99-01.php

The next link shows all the colors of Lorikeet.  It's a 9 ply wool that is quite fine--it'll work on congress cloth or 13 count, depending on the number of plies you use. One ply doesn't quite cover but since the color I am using (Rosewood Dark) is a close match to the painted area, I don't need to  completely cover the canvas.
http://www.glorianathreads.com/Lorikeet.html

I've started working on the bricks in the border using two plies of the same Rosewood Dark Lorikeet.  As you can see, I'm filling each rectangle with satin stitches on the diagonal.  I will probably do all the dark brown bricks, then turn my attention to the blue cache pots on either side of the cat.  After that, it's back to the topiaries for poor me!

Tomorrow I'll change the header photo to show the latest progress on cat topiary garden but today you can compare the photo at the top of this Blog entry with the header to see how much (or little) I've accomplished since the last update.


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Perfect Skin Colors for the Non-Caucasian Figure

Not every face on a needlepoint canvas belongs to a blue-eyed blonde. Marilyn Leavitt- Imblum is a cross stitch designer who has long listed alternative flesh tones for her designs on her website.  These colors (all DMC cotton floss) are very helpful for someone trying to pick reasonably realistic tones for a face that isn't Caucasian.  You can take a list of these to your local shop, pull out the DMC threads, then match their color to other brands if you want silk, a silk-wool blend, nylon threads, etc.
http://www.tiag.com/background/altcolor.html

Another tip I've heard recently is about geisha hair.  Anne Stradal of ABS Designs told me she loves the blue-black shade of Silk and Ivory called "Midnight" for the stylized hairstyles these Japanese ladies wear.

Hopefully these tips will help someone stitch a face that pleases them.


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

What Does the Needlepoint Fashionista Wear?

Recently I've been noticing something interesting in the photos of pieces folks are stitching that are popping up on their blogs and websites. Look at these photos from BeStitched, a shop in Scottsdale, Arizona.  Noticing anything?
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/news-and-updates/scooter-mouse-mania/

How about this photo of one of the class pieces from an embellishment class Brenda Hart taught last week at Bedecked and Beadazzled in Baltimore, Maryland?
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxoUEAZQDnJTFpJX-GmW5URroRIcqJ232FZr2Misxq-4EUhUXWey3-Vg3KV0cZilDgdudn6WO5X7woCNC3YH3LYTP2IRFe0BeptyMn2dOxle2qhjoEgMv2C6FXtkl8OVoYBPIBEokDKFjF/s1600/lindaflowers.jpg


Now go check out Vickey's Witchy Poo Halloween cat. Vicky lives in California. Notice anything there?
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/09/30/witchy-poo-and-now-santa-baby/

Look at Michele's latest Halloween canvas.  Michele's in Florida, by the way.
http://bristlythistle.blogspot.com/2011/10/my-new-ghost-magnet-is-celebrating.html

Yes, stitchers from three different regions of the country are matching their needle magnet styles to the theme of their current canvas.  It's easy to do since there are so many beautiful magnets available there days.  Check out the Needle Buddies form Elizabeth Turner Collection.
http://www.elizabethturnercollection.com/Needle_Buddies.html

Elizabeth Turner offers the little rhinestone studded critters you see above and Needle Bling, which are giant magnetic rhinestones (just in case you need to channel Elizabeth Taylor as you stitch).
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/02/needle-bling-is-back.html

Here are more Elizabeth Turner styles for the stitcher who needs a cupcake, a bird's nest, and a bug magnet for the three canvases in their rotation.
http://needlepointandthings.com/collections/types?q=Accessories

Of course there are the classic cameo-style magnets from Kelmscott Designs and the beautiful glass magnets from Custom House of Needle Arts. You can see the metal magnet sets from Puffin and Company here, too.
http://store.apneedlearts.com/magnets.html

Want to see the latest Mag Friends (and matching Fob Friends for your scissors)?
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/

Even Amy Bunger is hooked!
http://www.amybunger.com/f/Amy_s_e-newsletter_October_2011.pdf


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

And Even More Monthly Club News

This is the time of year when announcements of the new monthly clubs are popping up all over.  Seeing how beautifully Denise's floral calendar pieces are turning out reminded I promised to summarize even more club news the last time I mentioned these clubs.
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2011/10/another-month-goes-by.html

I think you can still sign up to stitch Raymond Crawford's monthly flowers at the shop like Denise did, but they do have a neat Kelly Clark tiny witch series that just started.  I think if you search on Raymond Crawford on Denise's blog, you will see good photos of all the series she's done to date.
http://www.needlepoint-knitting.com/stitch-clubs.htm

Now for the newest clubs!  Starting off the list is Fancy Stitches in Texas with their Thanksgiving Stars set from Kathy Schenkel.  With the holiday just around the corner, this is a perfect time to start on a set for next year's display. They have done Kathy's Halloween and Nativity Stars in the past, so you could have a stars ornament theme going for each holiday.  Just sayin'....
http://www.fancystitches.com/page3.html

The French Knot (also in Texas, the birthplace of monthly clubs!) has updated their website to show the latest finished ornament of the month models.  This year they have chosen Christmas themes.
http://www.thefrenchknot.com/x-ornofmonth.htm

Nashville Needleworks is doing a monthly club with the Tapestry Tent/Susan Roberts Halloween March canvas.  You'll work a part of this larger piece every month until all the darling children in their trick or treat outfits are finished.  Looks like you can still sign up for their spring Egg club, too.
http://www.nashvilleneedleworks.com/home.html

If none of the above appeal, you can  order from the Heart Kit Collection from Nature's Palette, the company behind the custom colors of NP canvas.
http://www.naturespalettecanvases.com/Heart_Kit_Collection.html

I think that's enough for now.  I promise more clubs later.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

E-Week is Here

Gay Ann Roger's E-Week sale has started! This is your yearly chance to pick up one of her old teaching patterns or add a brand new beautiful and feminine geometric to your stash. Need a scissors and needle case? GAR has you covered with three different little cases, all a different tiny cottage that will keep your scissors and a packet of needles safe and cozy until you need them.  There are also samplers and angels and ornaments for you to choose from, plus Saturday and Sunday morning there will be surprise items for sale until they run out.  For those, you have to show up at 8 a.m. Pacific time.
http://www.gayannrogers.com/site_2/Home_Page.html

Even if you aren't in the market for a new counted canvaswork project, this is the best time of the year to see an array of Mrs. Roger's designs.  That's a treat not to be missed.


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

A Collection of Designs on Display

Pocket Full of Stitches is doing a trunk show for A Collection of Designs this week. Whether you are in the market for a canvas or not, this is a great chance to see many of their designs all at once. Check back as the week goes on to see more and more of their designs.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/10/collection-of-designs-trunk-show-1.html

http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/10/collection-of-designs-trunk-show-2.html

http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/10/collection-of-designs-trunk-show-3.html

http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/10/collection-of-designs-trunk-show-4.html

http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/10/collection-of-designs-trunk-show-5.html


http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/10/discontinued-acod.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Ruth's World of Sweets

Ruth Schmuff has announced her winter mystery class, Candyland. Did you play the board game Candy Land when you were small? Ruth intends to play on an Eye Candy needlepoint canvas called Candyland Christmas Tree Farm. Details are available on her website.
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/mysteryClasses.php


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Where Would YOU Want to Be Trapped?

Robin Chapman writes about her experiences with Old World Designs Needlepoint in her own charming style.  Remember, drooling at the photos may harm your computer keyboard.
http://robinchapmannews.blogspot.com/2011/10/old-world-designs-for-needlepoint.html

If you've never visited Old World Designs' website, here's the link.  It is not my fault if you go nuts and buy something.  Blame Robin instead, ok?  I don't need the Master Enabler points this week.
http://www.oldworlddesigns.com/


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Robin and Skip Tent (Or Was It Basketweave Twill?)

Robin gives us a sneak peak at her newest stitch guide for Lotus by Zecca along with help on stitching skip tent (also know as basketweave twill).  If you ever were puzzled by skip tent, visit Robin's blog where she explains it completely.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/10/skip-tent-stitch-is-awesome-stitch.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Needle Arts Mentoring Program

Interesting in teaching other folks to stitch? Barbara's mention of the Needle Arts Mentoring Program might be just the thing.
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2011/10/needle-arts-mentoring-program.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Shorebird Trunk Show

i'm a big fan of Katie Molineaux's Shorebird Studio designs so I was thrilled to hear Thistle Needleworks/AP Needle Arts is having a trunk show of her work from October 8-22nd with 20 percent off the canvases. You can either go to Thistle in person or shop at the Alex Paras Needle Arts website
http://store.apneedlearts.com/shsttrshoc8o.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Needle Works Interviews Barbara Elmore

The October newsletter for Needle Works is out now. It includes a fabulous interview with the painted canvas designer Barbara Elmore who just taught a class at the shop.
http://theneedleworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/201110newsletter.pdf


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow 
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

More Monthly Club News

It's time for another monthly club summary, a listing of all the goodies you can order to have a fun project appear in your mailbox along with all those ugly bills. The first on the list is the newest--a Halloween hearts club that combines Vicky DeAngelis' stitching skills with Needle Deeve's little hearts. It's called Beloved and Bewitched.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/09/beloved-and-bewitched.html

Combine carrots and reindeer and what do you get?  What's the Point's new Foodie for Rudie club, which is Associated Talent's carrot-shaped club that combines tiny Christmas reindeer with candy for a delicious amount of fun.
http://www.whatsthepoint.biz/clubs.php

Fireside Stitchery is opening up previous clubs for new members and adding some wonderful larger pieces for stitchers who want something larger but that can be broken down into manageable canvases like the New Orleans building, which is charm personified, designed by Kate's Path. (There are some pretty ghoulish canvases for Halloween lovers, too.)
http://www.firesidestitchery.com/fs/clubs/index.cfm?fuseaction=getClubList&CategoryId=3&clubState=future

Interested in something no one else in your sewing circle has?  Then visit Family Arts for their charming little Christmas squares. The Kathy Schenkel Halloween stars are fabulous, by the way!
http://familyartsneedlework.com/Clubs.html

Or you can stitch the Associated Talents harvest corn cobs.  Aren't they the prettiest Indian corn you've ever seen?
http://www.nimblefingerstx.com/NimblefingersTx.com/Series.html

Well, that's enough for now.  I still have plenty of links for monthly clubs but I'll put off mentioning those for another week or two.


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Erhman Sale

The British needlepoint kit company Ehrman is having their yearly October sale. You can see the kits for sale on their website.  These are classic designs, meant for wool tent stitches, but at this price you could pick up a kit and substitute some of the threads for a more American look.
http://www.ehrmantapestry.com/Departments/Sale-Preview.aspx?sortorder=1&page=1&PerPage=500


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Kreinik Profiles Two's Company Needlepoint

Continuing their interview series, Kreinik profiles Two's Company Needlepoint, a shop in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2011/09/whats-in-name-story-behind-twos-company.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Remember My Victims

I've done quite a few interviews here on Blog with famous, infamous (ok, not really but it sounded good) and unknown folks from the world of needlepoint. All these are preserved here on Blog and are revealed by a little searching. Search on "Interviews" in the search box in the upper left corner and lots will pop up--an interview with Jay Patterson of Rainbow Gallery, a peek into Leigh Designs' studio and design process, a look at Melissa Shirley's stitching, a visit with Margaret Condy, interviews with the twin designer/shop owner team of Eileen Aird and Elizabeth Hess, a visit with Ruth Dilts and much, much more!

Plus you'll find links to other folks' interviews on other sites.

I tag every article published on Blog with keywords to help folks find things later.  Do a little digging and the most amazing things will turn up!


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Cupcakes and Stitch Guides

This morning I published a new article on the Chilly Hollow Stitch Guides blog about Cynthia Thomas' latest stitch guides for a Needle Deeva series. To read about the new items, click on the link below, or click on the magic carpet's photo in the right hand column to go straight to my other blog.
http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com/2011/10/cupcake-anyone.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

A Glimpse Inside the Classroom

If you are like me and never get to go to any of the cool classes, you'll drool all over the photos from Terry Dryden's Tropical Jazz class for Needle Bug in Alabama and the photos of Brenda Hart's Drama Dragon mask and embellishment classes at Bedecked and Beadazzled in Maryland. It looks like so much fun!
http://theneedlebug.com/2011/09/terry-dryden-2/

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2011/09/snap-tray-heaven.html

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2011/10/so-many-stitches.html

And then there was the SharonG class at Nimble Needle.  Trust me, the horses asses canvases are delicate and beautiful in person. Photos don't do them justice.  I'm lusting after the Christmas one myself.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2011/10/sharong-class-recap.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Threads for Perfect Skin UPDATED

Rainbow Gallery's Skin Tone Collections

So many folks report problems stitching faces that I thought I should continue with tips to help those who aren't happy with how things turn out for them. The right thread can really help create a face you are proud of.  My preference in stitching faces is to use silk floss. I must not be the only person who loves silk on faces because Rainbow Gallery has come out with what they call Design Collections in two skin tones using their Splendor floss colors--Bronze Porcelains and Blush Porcelains.  That's what you see in the above photograph.  There's not much yardage in each color but since I normally use 3-4 plies of Splendor in tent stitches for my faces, a card of these two sets will last me for 4-5 canvases of people.  (Splendor is a 12 ply silk.)  The Bronze Porcelains work for darker faces and the Blush Porcelains work for very pale skin and rosy cheeks.

UPDATE:  Rainbow Gallery has added Santa's Rosy Checks to their Design Collections skin tones.
https://www.stitchingbitsandbobs.com/cgi-bin/Store/pageread.cgi?SDC

Melissa Shirley's Nordic Snowman Stotcking, with face stitched

Of course these threads won't work for a snowman's face.  I've successfully used white Flair to stitch right over a snowman's pink cheeks and white snow "skin" as you see in the photo above, which shows Melissa Shirley's Nordic Snowman stocking under way.  The entire face is tent stitched with white Flair, including his pink cheeks and the gray shading under the edge of his fur-trimmed stocking cap.  The paint shows right through the transparent Flair and gives a slightly icy look to the face.

Flair also is a Rainbow Gallery thread.  It's a woven tube of thread which we stitchers sometimes call Barbie doll hose.  It comes on a card.  This website has good photos of the thread itself. If you've seen Frosty Rays or Petite Frosty Rays, you've seen Flair with a metallic thread threaded down the middle of it.
http://a-z-needlepoint.com/flair.shtml

Anyone else have a thread they use constantly for faces?  Either email me at chilly hollow athotmaildot com or post your favorite thread in the Comments section below this article.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Shops Do Stash for Cash

The announcement of an entire Kelly Clark/Amy Bunger Halloweenies set for sale brought me a message from Beth at Beth's Needlepoint Nook in Kentucky. Beth tells me her shop offers a Stash for Cash program for folks who want to send excess stash items off to a new home.  She describes how it works thusly,  "My shop has been helping customers with that issue for the past year. We list items on ebay for people. The canvas owner receives 60% of the sale value in cash or 80% in store credit. We have sold over 650 items so far including new canvases, partially stitched canvases, new fibers, partially used skeins of fiber, findings, books, tools, etc.  The program has been successful in that my customers are happy and they love the 80% store credit. One customer has received over $2000 in store credit from ebay sales. If you think that this would be of interest to your blog followers, feel free to post this information. Further details can be found on the home page of my website."
http://www.bethsneedlepoint.com/

Fireside Stitchery also has a very similar program for their customers.  Here's the description of how it works on their website.
http://www.firesidestitchery.com/FS/ebay/index.cfm

It is lovely of shops to sell items for folks who are unwilling to master eBay to sell excess items themselves.  I don't have any personal knowledge of how well this works, but anyone who has been thinking they need to get rid of things should talk to their local shop to make sure they don't have such a program.  If not, either Beth's Needlepoint Nook or Fireside Stitchery would love to talk to you.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com