Saturday, December 31, 2011

Eleven Fifty-Nine

Gala Cat Canvas from Nenah Stone Designs*
It is now 11:59 p.m. Shortly we'll open the champagne and toast our hopes for a better 2012 for us all than 2011 has been.   See you on the other side!

*Canvas by Nenah Stone Designs
http://nenahsneedle.com/needlepoint_canvases/gala_cat_collection

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

Facebook Postings UPDATED

Facebook postings are starting to take the place of website updates since anyone who can handle a digital camera can upload photos to their Facebook site without the specialized knowledge it takes to build, maintain or modify a website. So if you have a Facebook account, keep an eye on your favorite shops. Bestitched in Arizona is having a sale on canvases that ends today, December 31. Photos and prices are on their FB page.  If I didn't log into a Facebook account and check up on them, I wouldn't have known about the sale.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.245922422143360.55158.126229327446004&type=1

I am not wild about Facebook myself.  It's complicated to use, things keep changing and privacy is chancy.  But it is a great way to keep up with what the shops are doing.

UPDATE:  BeStitched told me (via FB of course!) that the sale canvases on their FB page will be on sale until January 6 due to popular demand.  So take a look at your bank account and see what you can pick up before then.

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

Fireside Announces Monthly Clubs and a Sale

Fireside Stitchery in Pennsylvania has announced their 2012 lineup of monthly clubs.  This year you can sign up for a series of Faberge eggs (Lee Designs),
http://www.firesidestitchery.com/fs/Clubs/index.cfm?fuseaction=getClubItems&CategoryId=3&clubNumberId=188

add to your collection of small mittens, small socks and hats (Associated Talents according to Vicky), or
http://www.firesidestitchery.com/fs/Clubs/index.cfm?fuseaction=getClubItems&CategoryId=3&clubNumberId=190

stitch a collection of Halloween and fall-themed candy corn shaped ornaments (Associated Talents).  All these designs come with threads, stitch guide and canvas. By the way, Fireside is also having a sale on their in-stock HP Designs canvases.  There is only one of each canvas, so move fast if you fall in love.
http://www.firesidestitchery.com/fs/handPaintedCanvas/index.cfm?fuseaction=getHPCanvasList&CategoryId=58&saleId=124&saleTypeId=2&showStart=1&groupNo=1


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

Thinking About Blog

Plays With Needles has been thinking about how her blog is really her desire to tell a story using her creative needlework as the medium.
http://plays-with-needles.blogspot.com/2011/11/three-paths-converge-on-story.html

Tricia has been talking about why she quit her job and started exploring threads and historic needlepoint full time.
http://thistle-threads.com.mytempweb.com/blog/index.php/2011/12/really-big-projects/


These two articles sparked my New Year's resolution for 2012--I'm going to choose my projects more wisely.  I want to pick pieces that teach me something so that I have something useful to share with you all on Blog.


What's your resolution?


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

Friday, December 30, 2011

This Dog Needs a Home

Ok, it's a Barbara Russell dog canvas, not a real dog, but it still needs a good home and is on sale at a good price for such a large piece.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2011/12/here-is-sale-canvas-that-may-be.html


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

Introducing the Hanukkah House

Ridgewood has posted a photo of Tracy 's finished Hanukkah House. Isn't it darling?  All the details are superb.  I don't know the designer but I'm sure Ridgewood can tell you if you ask.  (I got lots of readers saying this is a Melissa Shirley design.)
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2011/12/how-gorgeous-is-tracys-house-pictures.html


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

Barbara's Thread of the Week

Barbara Bergsten has posted about a thread of the week off and on during most of 2011.   She's posted a summary link that will show them all to anyone who wants to explore new threads, find old favorites that have been forgotten, or who just want to see the range of threads available to needlepointers today.  Make sure to check the comments for readers' favorite threads.
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2011/12/thread-of-the-week-1.html

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

Thursday, December 29, 2011

Stitch of the Month Program Starts in January

The excitement is building as ANG's Stitch of the Month program starts up again in January.  The colors of the model are going to be all shades of red, but folks are already planning to change into something different.  Janet Perry has chosen teal.
http://www.nuts-about-needlepoint.com/2012-sotm-colors-reveal-your-teal

Scarlet Thread is selling canvas and thread kits for the project, using the original red or blue or purple.  Right now they are out of stock but you can see the colors on their online catalogue if you are having trouble picking colors for yourself.
http://stores.intuitwebsites.com/ScarletThread/-strse-Kits/Categories.bok

Watch this space for the first posting of this mystery around January 1st.
http://www.needlepoint.org/Stitch.php


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

Tool Sale

Needlepoint Tool Time is having a twenty percent off sale on everything on their website. Details here.  They don't carry charts or canvases, just frames, floor stands, books, Evertites, magnets, tacks, etc.  I don't know how long the sale will last, so get your rear in gear.
http://stitchplaywithneedlepointtooltime.blogspot.com/2011/12/sale-sale-sale.html


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

Beards

Lots of folks seem to have trouble with faces, but beards also give us fits. I thought you'd like to see these Santas and their beards.  This cowboy Santa is from Melissa Shirley. He uses Loopy (or perhaps the smaller scale Little Loopy) for his beard.  This is a twisted and curled knitting yarn that one couches down to form the beard.  I think my Patchwork Santa's beard is made of Loopy yarn.  (Patchwork Santa is the image on the left side of Blog's page right now.)  I seem to remember it comes in ecru and tan, at least those are the colors I've seen for sale.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2011/12/melissa-shirleys-custer-santa-stocking.html

This Santa on safari is from Kathy Schenkel Designs.  I'm not quire sure about his beard but it sure looks like Fancy Fur to me.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/12/safari-santa.html

http://www.rainbowgallery.com/detail.cfm?ID=759

Beards can be very individual, customized to your vision of your particular Santa.  For help with stitches and thread ideas, use Diana Bosworth's Beards I Have Known booklet, which is the definitive resource on making beards.
http://www.thefrenchknot.com/books.htm


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

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Christmas Stocking and Year End Sales

Now that the holidays are over, do you want to start a new Christmas stocking to have it ready for next year? Needlenook of La Jolla has put all their stockings and stocking cuffs (whether in stock or special order) on sale at twenty-five percent off. You can see them all in their online catalogue at the link below.  The sale ends December 30, so don't delay.
http://www.needlenook.com/storedir/products.php?cat=58

Waste Knot in Virginia is putting their in-stock Christmas stockings on sale at 20 percent off until December 31.
http://wasteknotneedlepoint.com/

Needlepoint.com in North Carolina is starting their annual sale from December 27-January 7.  During that time, canvases will be twenty percent off and threads fifteen percent off.  They've put a series of special sale canvases online for their online visitors.  These canvases are also twenty percent off but if you use the code Sale2011 at checkout, they will give you ten percent off canvases not in their special online sale.
http://www.needlepoint.com/all-canvases/annual-sale-online-items.html

The Classic Stitch (I think this is the one in Illinois) is having a year end sale.  Books, canvases and accessories are twenty percent off while threads are ten percent off.
http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=slxznccab&v=001L9m-OEIPJ7Vc_DtJA5PWd-mYvshzc-WlZcXqEoAIlgRe872gTaPIAafPVBNmdWWlIp0FF6y0pcBh6HmLGb0DP97kmI6kLKT_vaFEZw2Avo0X08g9dDv8zw%3D%3D

There are probably many other sales that I don't know about (these are just the ones I learned about from e-newsletters I signed up for) so check your local shop to see what they may be doing to reduce their inventory and boost their year end sales.  Merry Christmas all!


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

Dashing Through the Snow (in Needlepoint)

One Part of the Christmas Tree Skirt
"Dashing through the snow. In a one horse open sleigh. O' er the fields we go. Laughing all the way..."


Do you love songs like Jingle Bells when Christmas rolls around?  Then you will adore this Christmas tree skirt from Leigh Designs.  Nimble Needle is showcasing it on their blog as they've put it up for sale on their website.  It's a beauty!  The photo above is my favorite section as it illustrates Jingle Bells so well.  Which section do you like best?
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2011/12/holiday-skirt-fit-for-queen.html


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

Glass Laying Tools

If you ever considered getting a glass laying tool (or decided against it because it was too expensive and fragile), you'll want to read what Nimble Needle has to say about them.  It might change your mind.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2011/12/special-occasion-glass-laying-tools.html


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

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Santa Does a Monthly Club

Actually, it's Raymond Crawford with the new monthly club, a five piece set of canvases that spell out Santa. The stitches were worked out by Diana Bosworth, famous for her Petei Santas at French Knot in Texas. Aren't they nice?
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/12/raymonds-new-club.html

Several shops are offering this club so pick the one closest to you and get yourself signed up.  After all, Christmas 2012 is only 363 days away!
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/details.php?pid=12257&pname=Santa+Club

The Needlepointer has mentioned they are offering this club although it is not on their website yet.
http://www.theneedlepointer.com/


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

College Girls (and Boys)

For something completely different PFOS has these college snowmen, complete with logos on their sweaters and matching mittens. Designed by Julie Mar, they might be just the thing to stitch this winter for your favorite school or student.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/12/collegiate-snowmen.html


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

Monday, December 26, 2011

Admire the Ornaments Before Packing

Before you start taking down your holiday decorations, admire them! Pocket Full of Stitches in Texas just had their annual ornament exchange and posted photos of the various wonderful stitched ornaments on their shop blog. They are each and every one adorable.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/12/yearly-christmas-party-and-ornament.html

While you are collapsed in your happy chair, exhausted at the effort you just put forth to make this the Best Holiday Ever, take a moment to examine their work which is a mini gallery of fine stitching from the heart.  Whether you had a good or bad holiday just now, you can rest for a moment and enjoy the creation of some very talented fingers.

I hope they bring you a little serenity for Christmas!

Hugs from Jane/Chilly Hollow


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

Newsletters

BeStitched has posted their December newsletter on the Internet. It's full of photos of their 6 month anniversary party, new classes and more--like a visit from Melissa Shirley!
http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs006/1105463547987/archive/1108949500754.html


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

Sunday, December 25, 2011

Santa Came Early and His Name is Don

Candy in Don Lynch's Basketweave Bead Technique
This year I got my Christmas present a little early when Don Lynch of Associated Talents taught me how to attach beads in a basketweave-type pattern.   Don invented this technique and often uses it on his models for his needlepoint designs.  Now AT has started adding free stitch guides to their website and several of them show how to make your beads look amazing, courtesy of Don.  You can see how he does it by heading over to the Chilly Hollow Stitch Guides blog and reading today's article, then following the link.

Just click on the magic carpet photo in the right hand column and you'll be whisked away. When you are done, ride the magic carpet again back here.

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

A Needlepoint Christmas

I thought you might enjoy this 1997 visit the needlepoint designer Lula Chang (Wooly Dreams) made to the White House.  The next two links memorialize needlepoint trees that were displayed there in years past.
http://www.woolydream.com/WHtextChrisVi.html

http://www.needlepoint.org/Projects/WH-1995.php

http://www.needlepoint.org/Projects/WH-1996.php

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all!


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

Saturday, December 24, 2011

Betty Ring's Volumes and Sale Catalogue Online

If you are a sampler person, you'll want to check out the items that Sotheby's has put online for your viewing pleasure as they promote their sale of Betty Ring's sampler collection.  The first is their catalogue for the sale.  It's not as long or as scholarly as I'd like myself, but at least you can get some idea of some of the pieces she collected and wrote about.
http://needleprint.blogspot.com/2011/12/stop-press-sothebys-have-full-text-of.html

They have also put both volumes of her Childhood Embroideries online.  Now THAT'S a present any sampler lover will enjoy for the holidays!
http://needleprint.blogspot.com/2011/12/stop-press-betty-rings-2-volume.html

I have no idea how long these valuable research tools will be available, so take the time to  visit these sites while you can.


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

Beautiful Christmas Stitching

Nothing is more relaxing to needlepointers when holiday stress gets us down than looking at wonderful stitching. I've been collecting links to wonderful Christmas stitching so I can present them to you. Go get your favorite beverage and enjoy the lovely stitching and the fabulous finishing!
http://stitchplaywithneedlepointtooltime.blogspot.com/2011/11/fir-trees-have-returned-from-wales.html

http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2011/11/night-before.html

http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2011/11/are-you-getting-in-mood-yet-perhaps-you.html

http://acoloradostitcher.blogspot.com/2011/12/leeping-deer-ornament.html

http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/12/02/a-little-christmas-decorating/

This canvas isn't stitched but the colors and the matching scissors fob and scissors and the fact that it is Christmasy without having a Christmas theme makes it irresistible to me.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/news-and-updates/mad-for-plaid/

http://wooley-thoughts.blogspot.com/2011/12/surprise-is-revealed.html

How about a Christmas tree tray to serve those goodies?
http://splittheneedles.blogspot.com/2011/12/holiday-trees.html

Steph's local stitching group has an ornament exchange each year.  Hers are wonderful!
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2011/12/swan-ornaments-through-years.html

These angel ornaments aren't stitched but their story is so wonderful I had to include them.
http://plays-with-needles.blogspot.com/2011/12/making-angels.html

http://plays-with-needles.blogspot.com/2011/12/making-angels-part-ii.html

I think I'll close with a photograph from the 2009 Christmas parade in Middleburg which is fairly close to where I live.  It illustrates those magic moments that happen all around us if you keep your eyes open.  Merry Christmas!
http://horsecountrychic.blogspot.com/2011/11/christmas-in-middleburg.html



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

Friday, December 23, 2011

What I Want for Christmas

Santa, I want a needlepoint pixie to stitch and rip while I sleep. Isn't she cute? The finishing is superb, by the way.  The canvas is from Ruth Schmuff while the stitch guide is by Vicky DeAngelis.  Ruth's shop arranged for the finishing, I believe.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2011/12/oh-to-have-needlepoint-pixie.html


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

Shop Windows at Christmas UPDATED

Peacock Alley always has a lovely shop window each month, but I particularly love their Christmas one. It's on their Facebook page. I hope those without a FB account can see it.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=307656392586699&set=a.304194906266181.81350.100000270232592&type=1&theater

Pocket Full of Stitches shows off their window on their blog.  It's just as lovely!  Many thanks to all the shops for showing off their windows for us to enjoy.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/12/christmas-window.html

UPDATE:  Ridgewood joins the parade of shop windows with these elegant displays.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2011/12/for-those-that-are-unable-to-make-it.html


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

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Colour Confidence in Embroidery

If you don't mind getting an IOU among your Christmas presents, Mary Corbet reviews a book about color in embroidery that will be released in the U.S. in February 2012.  Color is something that the counted canvaswork crowd know a lot better than I do as a painted canvas person.  After all, I often pick a painted canvas because I love the colors.  But The Mystery of Color effects my canvases, too.   Have you ever chosen pale mint green and pale lilac for your background and discovered that the lilac sprigs disappear into the mint green stitches around them?  Are you unhappy with the shades of skin tones in your faces?  Do you ever wish you knew how to successfully pick another color when you want to change something on your canvas?  Then this book may interest you.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2011/12/colour-confidence-in-embroidery-book-review.html


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

Countdown to Santa

Stitching with Kittens is showing off all the Santas she has stitched over the years as a countdown to Christmas. It's a wonderful display of a huge variety of sizes and styles of stitched Father Christmases. Get yourself a cup of something and settle down to enjoy the show.  The earliest posting is December 9.
http://stitchingwithkittens.blogspot.com/


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

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

My Newest Geisha

My Newest Canvas Magnet
I've added a new geisha to my collection.  Isn't she cute?  She will be perfect for my next Asian canvas.  Sadly, the geisha magnets only come in pink, but since I love pink, that isn't a problem for me.   If it isn't a problem for you and you need a geisha magnet too, you can pick one up at Bedecked and Beadazzled.  They aren't on the website but Ruth confirmed yesterday that she has them in stock.
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/


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

Free Hanukkah Projects (and More)

Kreinik usually releases free projects each December to celebrate the season. This year is no exception. There will be twenty-five Christmas projects this year, one released each day from December 1-25.
http://www.kreinik.com/25days_2011.htm

However, the great thing is that the company realizes everyone isn't Christian.  They are also celebrating the Eight Days of Hanukkah with menorah projects.  Kudos to Kreinik for celebrating with us all!
http://www.kreinik.com/kshop/home.php?cat=399

By the way, Kreinik is partnering with Gone Stitching to create free stitch guides for either the Stitch-a-Pen or several Gone Stitching painted canvases with Hannukkah themes.  Details are on the CH Stitch Guides blog. You can visit there by clicking on the magic carpet picture in the right hand column on this page.  Clicking on the same image at the CH Stitch Guides blog will return you here.


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

Rittenhouse Speaks: Learn Basketweave

Rittenhouse's Stephen has posted a video teaching basketweave on YouTube.  If you learn best by watching, this is a great visual aid to understanding backetweave.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xlbr-DKcRwI&feature=share

Wendy has also done a basketweave video.  Sometimes one person seems more understandable, so if Stephen's lesson doesn't quite click, listen to Wendy and see if it helps to have another teacher.
http://www.youtube.com/user/RNeedlepoint#p/a/u/1/ig5FSGj6G6Q


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

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Cuter than Cute

This little bear is cuter than cute--and so appropriate for the beginning of Hanukkah.
http://tapestryfair.blogspot.com/2011/12/happy-chanukah.html


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

Last Minute Shopping Advice

So you haven't gotten a present for the needlepointer you adore yet? Well, sit yourself right down and listen up--what you need is a gift certificate.

After all, needlepointers come in all sizes, shapes and sexes and they like a diversity of things.  You as a needlepoint novice have no idea what they might like or what they need, so look carefully at the credit card receipts to discover the needlepoint shop they patronize and give the store a call. Tell them you are desperately in need of a gift certificate for so-and-so and they'll take it from there.  After all, no one knows what your stitcher wants more than they do themselves, and the thrill of being able to buy something they've wanted but felt guilty about buying will make you their hero or heroine of the season.

No shop in your neighborhood or you can't find any receipts to give you a hint where to ask for help?  Not to worry--these fine folks can fix you right up.  Pull out your credit card and put yourself in their expert hands.  (But look carefully at each shop to see which meets your stitcher's needs best.   Judaica Needlepoint and Julie Pischke specialize in certain styles of needlepoint canvases.  The other links are better for a general gift certificate if you are really stumped.
http://www.needlepoint.com/

http://www.stitchboutiqueboston.com/gv_faq.html?faq_item=4

http://knit1needlepoint2.com/cart/core.cgi?p=gift-certificate

http://www.judaicaneedlepoint.com/gift-certificate.aspx

http://www.juliepischke.com/giftcertificates.php

If you'd rather give a gift of learning, the American Needlepoint Guild will be happy to help.
http://www.needlepoint.org/gift_certificates.php

Just don't wait too long.  Folks are going to be shutting up shop for the holidays this week.


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

Needlepoint Dot Com's Newsletter and Annual Sale

Needlepoint.com's December newsletter is online now. In it you can read about their December 27-January 5 annual sale and the announcement of new Elizabeth Bradley items expected soon. The sale is only for those who can visit in person and the discounts are on different days, but the shop promises Internet only sales to be announced later in the month via their emails to customers. So get on the mailing list.
http://www.needlepoint.com/newsletter


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

Religious Needlepoint

Byzatine Icon Canvases by Designing Women
I've always loved needlepoint with a religious slant to it. Of course the Nativity sets I admire are really all about the birth of Jesus at Christmas.  The beautiful menorah designs that I enjoy seeing are the universal symbol of Judaism.

Petei Canvas, Easel Style Finishing by Summer Truswell
There are quite a few lively Our Lady of Guadalupe designs available.  I stitched this one from Petei for my very dear sister in law a few years ago.  The two Byzantine icon designs at the top of the page were a Christmas gift for her daughters.  My family likes remembering the reason for the season at Christmas, so they love getting religious-themed designs.

Seeing these floral crosses from Ann Pace reminded me that I wanted to post two St. Francis canvases for you to enjoy.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/12/crosses.html

They are both of St. Francis, the Catholic patron saint of animals.  Since I have a niece who is an ardent supporter of animal care and rights, one of these would be a perfect gift.
http://www.canvasesbegone.com/9854/Sally+Jenkins+St.+Francis+needlepoint+hp+18+ct.html

Now I just need to figure out which one!
http://www.pasttimesneedlepoint.com/product.asp?ProductID=34267


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

Monday, December 19, 2011

Counting Down to Christmas With Twelve Stitches

Before you start running through all the chores you need to do today (and which you know you can't possibly finish), read what Ann has to say.  Twelve stitches a day will bring you peace and quiet for a few minutes, which is what a lot of us would like in our stockings Sunday morning!
http://stitchingfoolishness.blogspot.com/2011/12/one-week-to-christmas.html


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

For the Toy Chest

Over the mountain from where I live there are a sizable group of sampler stitchers. Among them is the incomparable Betsy Morgan, who is a superb teacher and embroider.   Lately Betsy has been designing and teaching etuis and other fancy boxes filled with little tools for your needlework supplies.  She's come up with something very interesting for her Toy Chest etui--a painter's box to hold your needle threader and needles.
http://willinghandsstitching.blogspot.com/2011/12/oops-i-did-it-again.html

It's a toy a lot of folks would love to have under their Christmas tree.  To see the rest of the set, go here and here and here.
http://willinghandsstitching.blogspot.com/2010/07/another-toy.html

http://willinghandsstitching.blogspot.com/2010/07/current-workshop-designs.html

http://www.austinstitchers.org/programs/greater_dallas_betsy_morgan.pdf

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

The Finished Scarabs Ring Jewelry Box

dede Odgen's Scarab Rings Canvas Finished
I thought you'd like to see photos of the finished jewelry box. The box itself is from Sudberry and seems to have been discontinued. Too bad, it is well made and quite lovely. The design is from dede Odgen. You can still purchase this canvas and others of ethnic jewelry on navy canvas from Canvases Be Gone.  Search the site using "dede jewelry" to bring up the selection.

Drawer pulled out. There's an upper section when you lift the lid also.
I bet some shops have some from the series in their inventory, too, but Google didn't turn any of those up.  If you are a shop with one of these for sale, or if you have one of these nice Sudberry watch boxes, please tell me in the Comments section or email me at chilly hollow at hot mail dotcom and I'll post it here.  Thanks!

http://www.canvasesbegone.com/


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

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Loretta Spears Mystery #10

By coincidence two different stitchers are working Loretta Spear's Mystery #10, which is appropriately named Fascination.  Both are going to post progress on their blogs.  Here are the links--
http://needleartnut.blogspot.com/2011/12/lesson-one.html

http://needleartnut.blogspot.com/2011/12/four-five-and-six.html

http://needleartnut.blogspot.com/2011/12/seven-eight.html

http://diet-pepsi-and-xanax.blogspot.com/2011/12/mystery-10-fascination.html

http://diet-pepsi-and-xanax.blogspot.com/2011/12/fiber-not-fabulous.html

http://diet-pepsi-and-xanax.blogspot.com/2011/12/fascination-day-1.html

This is the only Loretta Spears design I've actually seen after it was stitched.  If you would like to see the finished piece, here's Joni Stevenson's version, which is gorgeous in person.  But if you would rather be surprised, don't click!
http://www.needlepoint.org/WhatIs/2001/fascination.php

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

Tiny Chinese Paper Lanterns

Pocket Full of Stitches is showing off one of Raymond Crawford's latest series, a little set of Chinese paper lantern canvases. There's a link to his website to see them all.  Just move your mouse pointer over the What's New box on the right until you find the first lantern, a pink one with a lotus blossom. Isn't it pretty?  Six others are right after the pink lotus one.  The little cherry blossom design makes eight altogether, not too much for a real Asian themed canvas lover to do all of them as a lovely set to display.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/12/lantern-stitched.html

By the way, I think that the little image PFOS has on their website has a Vicky DeAngelis stitch guide.  There's a nice photo of the same piece on Vicky's blog.  I hope she stitches more of this lovely set and posts lots and lots of photos.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/11/28/spending-my-thanksgiving-with-raymond/

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

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Santa Appears Courtesy of Mimi UPDATED AGAIN

The Patchwork Santa who is decorating Blog this morning was a gift from my friend Mimi who stitched the standup in a Carole Lake weekly class at Needleworks in Austin years ago. Isn't he handsome? He usually decorates my house each Christmas but since I have a rambunctious puppy large enough to grab him off the dining room table, this year Patchwork Santa is only decorating Blog.

By the way, you can only see his head and upper torso right now.  Santa will appear fully only when Christmas is here!

The painted canvas under Patchwork Santa's stitches is by JB Designs.  There is also a matching Mrs. Santa, who comes either wearing an apron or without.
http://www.bristlythistle.com/jnjbd5.html

UPDATE:  Thanks to a question from Susan, I looked at Needle Works' website and see that they sell both Mr. and Mrs. Patchwork Santa with Carole Lake's class instructions which are excellent according to Mimi.  Thanks for asking, Susan!
http://theneedleworks.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=111&products_id=281

http://theneedleworks.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=111&products_id=280

UPDATE:  PFOS has both Mr. and Mrs. Patchwork in stock.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/12/santa-stand-ups.html

Thank you, Mimi.  My Christmas is brighter because of you.


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

Beginner Needlepoint Kit

Ruth Schmuff has a new needlepoint kit, geared toward beginners, especially younger women who don't have a lot of time or money to spend on learning or finishing. The supplies are the simplest possible and they make a great series of drink coasters.  If you know someone you think would like to learn, this is a simple way to get them started.  Remember, if you don't infect other people with the needlepoint bug, there won't be new people to keep our beloved craft going when we are gone.  So put this under someone's tree this holiday.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2011/12/twenty-something-married-with-small.html


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

Happy Hanukkah

Not being Jewish, I have no idea whether Hanukkah or Chanukah is the proper spelling, but we can put those questions aside and look at the gorgeous designs for the holiday that Nimble Needle has collected for our viewing pleasure.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2011/12/happy-chanukah.html


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

Friday, December 16, 2011

Meowy Christmas

If you are a cat person, you'll love seeing Vicky's Christmas cat ornament collection.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/12/10/a-very-meowy-christmas/


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

Rice Stitches Everywhere

DebBee's Designs has an interesting new project called Rice Pudding. It is entirely made up of rice stitches and their variations.
http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/products-page/canvas-work/rice-pudding/

Next year DebBee will do an all Rhodes stitch piece, which you can preview here.
http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/2011/11/22/a-bump-in-the-rhodes/

I'm indebted to Needlework Retailers for mentioning Rice Pudding and leading me to explore what DebBee plans.
http://yarntree.typepad.com/needlework_news/2011/12/rice-pudding-a-rice-stitch-sampler-from-debbees-designs.html


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

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Fireside on Sale

Fireside has announcing their end of the year sale, with the items for sale each day from December 16-31 listed on their website.  If you are a threadaholic or need new tools, this is the place to go.  Clubs and Christmas items are also on sale at a nice discount.  Mark your calendars for the day you want to shop.
http://www.firesidestitchery.com/FS/SalesAndSpecials/index.cfm?fuseaction=dailySale


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

Laura's Solution and a New Mystery

Laura Perin posted her own mini mystery piece to show the variations she came up with.  She promises a new mystery, too, so head over to her blog next Monday to see the newest mystery challenge.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2011/12/mini-mystery-monday.html

http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2011/12/mini-mystery-monday-3.html


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

Bring on the Bling

Ruth Schmuff's current mystery class is a canvas with a series of candy-colored trees from Eye Candy. Ruth plus canvases equals lots of beads, sequins and metallics, with a portion of silks on the side.  Here is Ruth's current progress and an explanation of how she beads so fast.  I really should take notes on Ruth's technique. I am the world's slowest beader!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2011/12/bring-on-bling.html


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

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

BREAKING NEWS: Erica Wilson Dies UPDATED

Thanks to the ANG Facebook page, I just discovered that Erica Wilson has died.  Her popular books and tv series led me to teach myself crewel when I was in college.  That was my first step on my road to needlepoint fun.  Thank you, Erica.  The needle arts in America are richer because of you.
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/14/nyregion/erica-wilson-dies-at-83-led-a-rebirth-of-needleworking.html?_r=2&mid=5528803

UPDATE:  Mary Corbet has a few thoughts about Erica Wilson and her place in stitching history.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2011/12/erica-wilson-2.html

Ann also is thinking about Erica.  They are right on all counts. From the things I've been told by folks who knew and worked with Erica, she wasn't above using others and letting people think their work was hers.  Not a nice person, in other words, but very very influential.  I hope to be a better person and perhaps have a thousandth of her impact on needlepoint some day.
http://stitchingfoolishness.blogspot.com/2011/12/one-week-to-christmas.html

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

Basketweave Explained

In the latest posting about her HUGS stitch guide, Robin uses the basketweave she has added to the canvas to explain how to make your basketweave absolutely perfect.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/12/hugs-from-robin-part-six.html#comment-form


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

Beginning and Ending Threads

BeStitched's Alice Hall has an online tutorial on beginning and ending threads on the shop blog.  This link is to Part One, which covers basketweave stitch.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/news-and-updates/beginning-and-ending-threads-part-1/

The next part is about using pin tucks and bargello tucks for starting/ending other stitches.  Sometimes it makes sense to use different techniques for starting and ending your threads if you are doing something other than tent stitches.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/beginning-and-ending-threads-part-2/


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

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Counted Canvaswork Sale

Scarlet Thread, online home of counted canvasworkers everywhere, is having a clear out the inventory before we have to count it sale. Here are the details.
http://stores.intuitwebsites.com/ScarletThread/-strse-On-Sale/searchpath/134045563/start/1/total/67/Categories.bok


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

A Crown for 2012

BeStitched has just announced their first class for 2012--one of Kirk and Hamilton's crowns in a version designed exclusively for BeStitched and taught by Princess Julia Snyder.  This class is also available via mail but since the crown canvas is being created just for BeStitched, you have to sign up now.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/fit-for-a-queen/

If you like the crowns but can't take the class, you may want to look at some of the other crown designs by Kirk and Hamilton.
http://www.needlenookoflajolla.com/storedir/proddetail.php?prod=kh345

http://www.needlenookoflajolla.com/storedir/proddetail.php?prod=kh347

http://www.needlepoint.com/designers/kirk-and-hamilton/medieval-crown.html


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

Face Stitching Video

Because I've had so many questions about stitching faces, I was excited when Mary Corbett posted a link to a needle painting artist who filmed the face she was stitching. You can see how the layers are built up. The thread used is DMC cotton floss, I believe, and probably only 1-2 plies are used.  Hope you find this as interesting as I do!
http://www.needlenthread.com/2011/12/embroidered-face-video.html


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

Monday, December 12, 2011

Scarab Rings, Kreinik and a Fancy Terry Background

Terry Christopher's Snow Wave Stitch
With space limitations in the jewelry box lid where I plan to insert my Egyptian scarab jewelry canvas, I had to figure out just how to make the design shine without the use of beads or fancy stitches.  So I turned to Kreinik.  Their metallic threads were perfect for gold jewelry.  I pulled golds, blues, red, and brown from my stash, looking for shades that go well together but trying to use as much holographic Kreinik as possible.  I really wanted the scarab rings to shine and holographic Kreinik does just that.

After I had the threads chosen, I simply tent stitched the design.  I did have to be careful to keep tied off ends of thread well away from the edges of the scarab rings since holographic Kreinik frays a bit and those ends will poke up through the lightly stitched background if I am not careful.

Once the scarab rings were stitched, I turned my attention to the background.  I needed a subtle but pretty background stitch. I played around a little with the idea of stitching Egyptian hieroglyphics in the background but the complexity of the letters defeated me.  So I turned to one of Terry Christopher's stitches which you see in the background in the photograph above.  I saw this piece on Facebook and diagramed the stitch Terry created for a student at 2 the Point (Terry's shop).  This is a Shorebird Studio design, by the way.  You can see it on Shorebirds' website by searching for canvas M424.  The second link is to Terry's online store.
http://shorebirdstudio.com/


You can see the original photo that Terry posted on 2 the Point's Facebook page.  I'm not sure if those without a Facebook account can see this, but here's the link.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=188567564508578&set=a.188566801175321.42855.157438187621516&type=3&theater

What you see in the photo above is my diagram which was done on a page from Ruth Schmuff's Stitches CD Volume One.  Ruth's bargello stitch is very similar to the stitch Terry used but it isn't quite the same stitch. In Terry's version, each stitch unit moves up a thread in Terry's snow wave stitch.  In the diagram you see two stitch units drawn in pencil.  The X shows where the third unit moves up a thread to start.  Each unit moves up one thread.  The photo of Terry's original design and my charting of her original stitch are posted with Terry's permission.

Isn't she just the greatest?!


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

Monthly Club Updates

Since the monthly clubs that many shops run are so popular, I wanted to let everyone know about updates to the offerings. Ridgewood's Paper Doll Club has a new outfit available.  I think the doll and her outfits are by Maggie.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2011/11/jammies.html

You can see the original canvases on the Ridgewood website.
http://www.ridgewoodneedlepoint.com/hand-painted-needlepoint-doll-canvas.htm

Beth's Needlepoint Nook has models of most of the Santa's Wild Ride canvases from Brenda Stofft up on their website.  I know a lot of people are interested in this club since Brenda Stofft has many fans.
http://www.bethsneedlepoint.com/Dot_ClubsExec.asp?idClubCategory=8

Finally, Pocket Full of Stitches has more Christmas tag canvases finished.  It's been great fun to see each model appear as the shop finished stitching them.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/11/frosty.html

http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/12/another-tag.html

http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/12/yummy.html

All of these Collection of Designs canvases are on their website but to see the stitched versions you'll have to check their blog (above).
http://www.pfos.com/ChristmasClubs/Kelly%20Clarks%2012%20Days/PocketFullofStitchesTagYoureIt.HTM


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

Sunday, December 11, 2011

The Beach and The Christmas Stars

Jan and Liz have finished another square on their two versions of Stars for the New Millennium, Tony Minieri's charted quilt block masterpiece.  They've caught up with me and are starting to have more progress on their version than I have on mine.  I hope to work on it a little next year.  Deadlines are starting to take over my life, however.  Here is Jan's Christmas red and green version.
http://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2011/11/29/stars-of-the-new-millennium-ava-gardner/

Here is Liz's wet sand and blue water version, which reminds me of the beach.
http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2011/11/stars-for-new-millenium-progress-11.html


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

Nimble Needle Has You Covered

The Nimble Needle (the one near Atlanta, not the one in New Jersey) has published their latest newsletter.  It announces a December 16 finishing class, a new Kathy Schenkel Nativity class, mentions their next beginner class, and announces their monthly club for 2012-Associated Talents' spooky squares.  The squares are tiny monsters, quick and easy and fun to stitch after our daily responsibilities are done.  (Full disclosure:  I own Skeletor the little skull and fully expect to have fun with him next year myself.)
http://us1.campaign-archive2.com/?u=45d1a2a693824b7bef0df6f6c&id=260ac51cd0&e=40e2c26c15

If any of the above tempts you, here is their website with contact information.
http://www.atlantanimbleneedle.com/index.html


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

Saturday, December 10, 2011

Robin Sends Us Hugs UPDATED

Robin King has been working on a very plain canvas that just says Hugs.  The fascinating thing about this design from Gayla Elliott of Alice Peterson is that so much of the canvas is blank. Robin was able to add any border or background she desired.  When we work painted canvass, usually the colors and shapes dictate what we can use, but this design is very open-ended.  Robin took full advantage of this.  You are going to be amazed at the difference between the original canvas and Robin's finished design!
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/09/hugs-from-robin.html


http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/11/hugs-from-robin-part-two.html

http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/12/hugs-from-robin-part-three.html

http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/12/hugs-from-robin-part-four.html

http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/12/hugs-from-robin-part-five.html#comment-form

UPDATE:
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/12/hugs-from-robin-part-six.html#comment-form

http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2011/12/hugs-from-robin-part-seven.html

Thanks for taking us on this design journey, Robin.  With you as guide, the needlepoint adventure is always interesting and fun.

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

Christmas Magnets UPDATED

If you want a Christmas magnet to celebrate the season, or to use with that Christmas stocking you have been stitching on FOREVER, PFOS has some darling ones.  Cute, inexpensive--what's not to like?  Oh, the fact that they are limited edition.  So pick up your favorite now.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/12/new-magnets.html

UOPDATE:  More limited edition Christmas magnets.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/12/more-magnets.html


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

Counted Christmas Treats UPDATED

Scarlet Thread has new designs for sale and has kitted two colorways for ANG's 2012 Stitch of the Month (SOTM) project. Counted canvasworkers can see them all here.
http://stitchything.blogspot.com/2011/12/fun-holiday-stitching-and-more.html

UPDATE:  Karen noticed that Scarlet Thread has added a purple SOTM choice.  Thanks, Karen!!!
http://stores.intuitwebsites.com/ScarletThread/-strse-3162/Stitch-of-the-Month%2C/Detail.bok

By the way, you'll want to see the beautiful border Agata substituted for the one Ro Pace designed for this 2011 SOTM piece.
http://polskineedlepoint.blogspot.com/2011/12/flowers-of-italy-grudzien-agata.html

If you are a fan of small count fabrics, then you'll want to see these little squares.
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2011/12/stitching-over-one-with-teensy-weensy.html


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

Gambling on Needlepoint

I love shop blogs. They are always full of personality and news that I can't get anywhere else since I live so far from my "local" shops. I've been watching Mary Agnes talk about various issues that shop owners face that us mere stitchers know little of lately.  It's nice to sit and listen to her views on what makes a good shop, but today's posting is all about the bets she places when ordering items for her store.
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2011/11/ordering-canvases-for-season.html

I would be paralyzed by fear if I were in her shoes!

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

Friday, December 9, 2011

Newsletters and More

The Needle House's latest newsletter is ready for viewing. It's full of news of their Winter sale, of next year's trunk shows and classes, and a book review.
http://www.theneedlehouse.com/jm/images/newsletters/winter_2012_web.pdf

Peacock Alley's e-newsletter isn't online but it is chock full of news. First of all, their Halloween, Thanksgiving, and fall themed canvases are on sale at twenty-five percent off through the end of December.  They are also putting their remaining Medici and Paternayan wool on sale since Medici is no longer available and Paternayan is so hard to get now.  If you love these two wools, email them for pricing and available colors.  Peacock Alley is going to stock Waverly Wool now that Paternayan is so hard to get and will be able to convert colors for you if necessary.
http://www.peacockalleyneedlepoint.com/Peacock_Alley_Needlepoint/Sale%21_Sale%21_Sale%21.html

Amy Bunger's newsletter is up on her website.  She's updated her stitch guide catalogue, has news about the Tony Minieri DVD set she's doing on proper technique, and has information about her twenty-five percent end of year sale, too.
http://www.amybunger.com/current_enewsletters.html

The December Needle Works newsletter is available, too.  It showcases Kelly Clark's designs which are the basis of several classes and clubs at the shop but there is a lot more going on at the shop than just those pieces.  You'll have a great time exploring it all at the link below.
http://theneedleworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/201112newsletter.pdf


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

Sheena's Got Magnet Fever

Sheena is showing off her magnet collection. I just love the little magnets to park my needles on my canvas, and I'm glad to see I'm not the only one who collects them. It's fun to switch magnets when you start a new project, too, especially if you manage to match the magnet to the theme of the current piece.
http://sheenassweetstitches.com/?p=171#comment-295

While we are talking magnets, shops can order magnets with their logos.  It's a lovely why to remember that fabulous shop you love visiting on holiday--or every day.
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2011/11/shop-logo-custom-magnets.html

However, not everyone is a magnet lover.  If you want something to coordinate with your canvas but don't use magnets, how about a tiny tin for your needles?
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/12/needle-sliders.html


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

Thursday, December 8, 2011

ThreadworX Publishes

ThreadworX has just announced the publication of two little Thread Candy Studio books for your stitching pleasure.  One is a journal for listing your projects, threads, stitch guides, etc.  It is small and portable, great for dropping in your purse before you had to the shops for some Stash Enhancement Experience.  Think of it as a cross between a memory book and an inventory.
http://www.threadworx.typepad.com/the-needleworx-journal/2011/11/new-products-great-gifts.html

The second book seems to be geared towards needlepointers who are just sticking their toe into the deep and exciting waters of painted canvas embellishment.  It diagrams the basic fancy stitches that we use over and over again, and includes a few tips for the less experienced stitcher.  You can read more about both books and see a sample page at this link.
http://www.threadcandystudio.com/product_2.html

Actually, the pair might be the perfect stocking stuffer for that friend or relative you are teaching to needlepoint.


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

Thread Inventory Spreadsheets

Three different folks have thread inventories online for stitchers to use to keep track of what threads they have in their person stashes.  The first site is a collaboration between Linda K. Reinmiller and Susan Johnson.  Linda has a series of thread brand inventory spreadsheets in Excel plus links to Susan's Google Documents spreadsheets on her teaching website.  Here is where you can find it. Note that Linda is constantly working on updating and adding information.  When new lists or updated lists are available, she posts a notice on the ANG email list.
http://www.lkreinmiller.com/thread-inventories.html

The last set of inventory sheets are courtesy of Needle Artworks which has maintained this since the late Jennifer Ashley Taylor set up the site until now under Ruth Schmuff's new ownership.  The pages are meant to be printed out and kept in a notebook.
http://www.needleartworks.com/thread/cmpnylist.htm

Many thanks to these wonderful people who help us keep up with the threads we have put away for the next great project!


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

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Add Pliers to Your Beading Kit

No, I'm not going to explain the title. Go read what the article says.  Thanks for the tip, Vicky!
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/11/21/a-little-beading-lesson-on-mr-crow/


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

A Needlepoint History Lesson

Gather around, boys and girls, while Auntie Pat gives us a history lesson. This time the lesson is about the corkscrew stitch. You can see it in action here at Ruth Schmuff's blog.  There's a diagram so you can easily master this stitch yourself.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2011/10/happy-halloween.html

After I posted the link above earlier here, I got an email from Pat Correz, who by virtue of knowing everyone who's anyone in needlepoint, tells some fascinating stories.  This time Pat explained the background of the corkscrew stitch.

Pat wrote, "That corkscrew stitch was invented, I believe, by Ann Spiess Mills. Chottie [Alderson] used to bring her out to us for classes, and she always taught it.  She had several other names for it...the "peter" stitch...and the "penis" stitch.  I don't think anyone had done this stitch prior to Ann...it goes back to the late 70s or early 80s. A lot of Chottie's and Ann's groupies all know it by the original name....and I've demo'd it a number of times.  I taught it at an ANG meeting one time, called it by the name Ann used, and the class all turned bright red!~!!  Lots of memories for that stitch. I used to teach Dede's camel and used it for the camel's curls hanging down over his face. It works great with persian yarn if you want it big and fat.  I'd LOVE to stitch that Halloween tree!!!
Are you familiar with Ann Spiess Mills and her work...a real artist turned needlepoint designer? She NEVER duplicated a canvas...every one was an original. If you saw one you wanted, she'd take an order, then do her version of it. So much of her designs were based on the folklore of the New Mexico mountains and the Spanish, not Indians, who live there....stories about everything in her designs. For instance, 3 bunnies in a design represented the Trinity...one 1 bunny...lust!! Angels everywhere and all had stories. I had over 45 of her canvases...never stitched...and donated them to EGA HQ to preserve her legacy. I still have half a dozen, but will never stitch them...they're each original works of art, painted on canvas. She also did surface embroidery on felt of angels and all kinds of things...on and on."

By a happy coincidence, two of Ann's felt angels turned up on eBay recently so you can see them.  Here are the links.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/170700583806?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649#ht_500wt_1411

http://www.ebay.com/itm/180727882731?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649#ht_500wt_1411

On Ruth's Halloween tree the corkscrew stitch is couched down at the tip to make the hair, but Ann Spiess Mills used it sticking straight up, hence the name.  The type of thread you use and whether you attach the tip and/or middle to your canvas will certainly make a big difference in the end result.

Thanks, Pat, for the wonderful story and for permission to reproduce it here.

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

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

DJ Designs Trunk Show

The Bristly Thistle has their DJ Designs trunk show up on their website now. It's a good chance to see their latest designs which aren't on the DJ Designs website yet, plus the canvases are twenty percent off, with free shipping if one orders more than $100 worth of goods.  Can't beat that!
http://www.bristlythistle.com/djtrunk.html


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

Tassels are Fun

If you love classic designs, then you'll want to see what Needle Nicely did with a Lee canvas of tassels. Lots of great ideas and unusual threads here!
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2011/11/lees-needle-arts-tassel-canvas.html

http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2011/11/tassel-canvas-ii.html

http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2011/11/tassel-canvas-iii-finish.html


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