Wasted

Are you familiar with waste canvas? This is a loosely woven canvas that you lay on top of fabric, stitch through both layers, then wet the fabric and waste canvas. Water makes the waste canvas easy to pull out from between the fabric and the stitching, one thread at a time.  This leaves your stitching in place on top of fabric like baseball caps, tote bags or t-shirts.  DMC sells waste canvas and has posted a video about how to use it on their blog.

http://dmc-threads.com/soluble-canvas/


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

In Honor of Leap Year UPDATED

2012 is leap year, which means there is an extra day in February. Instead of the usual 28 days, every four years February has a 29th. Ridgewood has taken notice and is offering a huge selection of frog weight canvases for your stitching pleasure.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2012/02/forget-about-football-fever-ridgewood.html

These canvases are traditionally filled with something heavy and used as a frame weight so you can stitch with both hands when on the move.  They also make wonderful paperweights and have been seen perched on the back of a sofa during their non-working hours.

UPDATE:  The frogs are going nuts at Ridgewood.  Better buy one before it leaps again!  LOL
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2012/02/it-is-leap-year-day-and-frogs-in-our.html


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

For the Elizabetheans Among Us

This posting is for those among us interested in Elizabethean stitches and reproduction threads like Gilt Sylke Twist, and for those who like sales.  Gilt Sylke Twist, by the way, is a mix of silk and metallic wire.  The second link tells you about it.  I have two spools here, waiting for the right project, but since I've heard Japanese embroidery needles are perfect for stitching with this thread, I'll probably pick up a few of those before I try.  The third link is the tutorial on working with Gilt Sylke mentioned in the second link, just in case you have a spool tucked away, too.
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2012/02/22/new-stitches-to-learn/

http://thistle-threads.com/shop/accessories/giltsylketwist.html

http://thistle-threads.com/teaching/projects/stitchdiagrams/gst_tutorial1.pdf

The shop Kathy mentioned is famous among embroiderers for the quality of their merchandise, fair pricing and excellent customer service.  A great many folks buy their varieties of metallic threads here as they usually have just about everything available.  Here's the link for a little browsing.
http://www.hedgehoghandworks.com/catalog/index.php


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

Replacements for Petei?

Recently Stitcherie members started talking about designers who have small Santas similar to Petei's, in case the Petei canvases become unavailable with her retirement at the end of this year.  The first name that comes to mind is Designing Women. Start browsing with page 13 to see their Royals. The Santas are on the last two pages. I know some of them are on 13 count and others on 18 but the website doesn't always make clear which is which. http://www.canvasconnection.us/Needlepoint_by_Canvas_Connection/Angels.html 

NP Clubhouse has a darling series of Santas available from a local designer. My spies say that these are wonderful but at around 6x9, they are not as tiny as Petei's pieces.
http://theneedlepointclubhouse.com/Gallery.aspx 

Joan Thomasson is better known for her small angels but she has a wonderful Santa series.  These are usually sold as kits with the painted canvas, threads and stitch guide included.  Of course you can customize them to suit yourself by substituting threads and using any stitches you like.
http://www.stitchinstuff.com/ProductCategories.aspx

Needle Deeva also has quite a few small Santas among their small Nativity figures and snowmen, although some of them at 5x7 are larger than the Petei small figures.
http://www.needledeeva.com/christmas.html

I've also been reminded that Brenda Stofft has some small Santas on 22 count canvas.  Beth's Needlepoint Nook is offering seven of them as a monthly club this year.  I wish they were on Brenda's website so we could see the other designs as these are darling.
http://www.bethsneedlepoint.com/Dot_ClubsExec.asp?idClubCategory=8

Carol Dupree has some small Santas that look like great fun.  Here are a few of them, but you can see even more on the Susan Roberts website (second link) that distributes Carol's work.
http://www.needlenookoflajolla.com/storedir/products.php?cat=186

http://www.susanrobertsneedlepoint.com/files/PDFfiles_CmasOrnaments/CO15_2011_Santa_wo_SR.pdf

Needle House has some wonderful stitch guides for the six inch high Santas A Collection of Designs did for them a few years ago. Here are the models.
http://www.theneedlehouse.com/jm/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=96&Itemid=102

This link shows all the canvases ACOD created.
http://www.acollectionofdesigns.com/Christmas%20Collection%20Old%20World%20Santas.htm

Anyone who knows of a designer who does other small Santa canvases that we didn't mention, please add the name in the Comments or email me at chilly hollow athot mail dotcom and I'll add him or her for you.  Thanks!


If you are not familiar with Petei's canvases and are wondering what the fuss is about, here is her website.  Although we might find other small Santas that are easy and fun to stitch, no one will replace Petei in our hearts!
http://www.petei.com/line_list/line_contents.htm


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

The Goodies Are Pouring In

The items ordered at the TNNA Phoenix show last month are starting to arrive in the shops. Pocket Full of Stitches has photographs of the goodies, from too many designers to list, on their blog. Opening the mail must be great fun these days.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/02/new-canvases-have-arrived.html

http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/02/even-more-new-canvases.html

Needle Nicely is also having lots of new items arrive.  The variety is endless!
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2012/02/multitude-of-riches.html


http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2012/02/boo-hiss-television-remotes.html

Finally, The Needlepointer is posting several pages' worth of new things on their website. Enjoy.
http://www.theneedlepointer.com/store/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=47


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

My Goal In Life

My goal in my needlepoint life is to leave little gifts behind me. Like Betty Ring did, but I have no hopes of doing anything quite so elegant or which had such an impact.
http://thistle-threads.com.mytempweb.com/blog/index.php/2012/01/bettys-final-gift-to-us/

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

Slide Show Poll

The poll about which slide show Blog readers prefer ended yesterday morning.  Eighteen people (thirty-three percent) prefer the fancy graphics of Smilebox's embedded slide show while thirty-six folks (sixty-six percent) prefer the clickable URL of Picasa's slide show software.

However, there are serious problems with both type of slide show.  The pretty graphics are very very slow loading and also cut off the top and bottom of my photos. Quite a few people were never able to access the clickable URL.  (I wonder if that's because they don't have some type of Google account but I don't know.)  The clickable URL shows off canvases in such detail that they could be copied, which worries some Blog readers.

In other words, neither option is great.  Why look for a slide show, then?  Why not post all the photos one by one in a blog article?  The reason I don't do that is because Blogger allows me to have 1024 MB of photos here.  I have used 51 percent of my allotted space in the five years Blog has been using Blogger.  Slide shows are a way of conserving space since they are hosted elsewhere.  I delete all the Canvas of the Day photos each week and also delete the thumbnail photos used in the header and in the right hand column when I change them.  I also use smaller photos of some blog entry photos when the larger size doesn't matter because it won't show much more detail than the smaller size.  I want to postpone deleting images from articles as long as possible.

I think the clickable URL slideshows are exceedingly dull and I don't like the fact that I had to download and install Smilebox's software which then opened a window every time I imported photos to my computer, asking if I wanted to create a slideshow from them.  This doesn't matter to Blog viewers, but it is important to folks who are also thinking about what slide show they want for their blog. So I'll keep looking.

If you know about any slideshows that work well for almost every computer user, that are free, and that play nice with Blogger, please let me know.


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

Taking Up the Challenge

Interested in a painted canvas challenge? Ruth's got one about to start.  Of course the canvas is from a line she distributes but it is still very interesting to see what folks do with the canvas/stitches/threads that are specified.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/02/we-challenge-you-to-step-outside-and-be.html


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

Long and Short Plunging

If you do any needle painting (which is basically using long and short stitches to create realistic plants and animals) you have to figure out whether to plunge your needle down into the previous row of threads OR bring your needle up from the back through the previous row of threads.  I know folks like Tony Minieri tell students to come up from the back, but why is that better?  Is it better?  It is things like this that keep me awake at night.  (Hey, it's better than worrying about ill health, roof leaks, the mortgage or any of a zillion other worries we adults have on our plates, right?)

Mary Corbet decided to explore the question and has come up with the answer--It Depends!  To see what she discovered and figure out what is best for your project, visit her site.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2012/02/split-stitch-direction.html




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

First Stitch First: A Peek

Pocket Full of Stitches offers a peek inside Julia Snyder's latest book, First Stitch First.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/02/first-stitch-first.html


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

Time Travel with Erica Wilson

Thanks to Donna, I know that some of the 1970s era Erica Wilson TV programs are now online and there are plans to post more bits of her crafts program.
http://retrorenovation.com/2012/02/14/erica-wilson-pbs-videos-now-online-erica-shows-us-how-to-stitch-an-owl/

This is really a trip back in time.  The colors and designs are very early 1970s and the embroidery is crewel, bargello and surface embroidery with a little goldwork thrown in.  The information is timeless, however.  The videos appear on the EricaWilsonNantucket YouTube channel.
http://www.youtube.com/user/EricaWilsonNantucket?feature=watch

There is a link to an article about Erica's life and work and links to eBay sales.  Her many books and crewel kits are easily available at auctions there.  I taught myself crewel from her books and owe her a huge debt in that I brought those surface embroidery skills to my needlepoint.  I remember watching some of her TV programs on my roommate's set in college, wishing I could stop the program to study some of the embroideries.  Now I can!

The power of the Internet is amazing but I had no idea it was a time machine.  Back to college I go!


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

Odds and Ends

I'm sitting catching my breath at the laptop this morning, trying to summarize a few little things that are happening here on the Internet. Some days I feel like a billboard, but it seems useful to have a "newspaper" where you can find out the news in the NP World, so I guess I'm it, at least for now.  So let's get started!

I put the Beauty and the Bored canvas up again as Canvas of the Day.  It's so charming, I just wanted to see it again.  Maybe we can convince A Dragon's Tale to paint more?  It's not on her website, just on her Etsy page.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/89972530/needlepoint-canvas-redhead-with-cat-sale?ref=pr_faveitems

The poll about which type of slide show you prefer is up for one more day.  Please vote if you haven't, since it looks like the clickable URL slide show is a clear favorite.  If you disagree, make sure you say so.   Here is the Blog entry that shows both types of slide shows.
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2012/02/missing-sheep-and-her-kin.html

Melissa Shirley Designs is posting the new stitch guides available from Laura Taylor of Aristeia on their Facebook page.  If you have an account wander over and check it out.

BeStitched Needlepoint has posted a photo of their new small tool bags ($33) on their Facebook page.  They are 9x7 inches with a zipper on the top and feature Day of the Dead fabric.  (LOL)  If you don't have a Facebook account but are interested,  contact information is in the link below.  I'm sure they'll send you a photo to help you pick just the right Día de los Muertos design to keep your threads or tools in.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/blog/

The Loretta Spears site is pretty complete.  I'm still adding things here and there to past entries, so the top blog entry is a list of the updates.  I think I'l add a link after each update so folks don't have to search but that won't happen until tonight.  Remember, I still want photographs of finished pieces, materials lists, publication dates, help finding errors, information about items that are missing from the list, etc.  Check it out at the link below and then email me at LorettaSpearsDesigns@gmail.com with any help you can offer.  Thanks!
http://lorettaspears.blogspot.com/


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

Orna Looked, Fainted, Then Explained

Poor Orna Willis discovered the Seminar Book photo of the class she is teaching at ANG's Seminar this fall in Philadelphia is less than enlightening.  Blogs to the rescue!  Orna posted a full explanation of the class on her blog and asked folks to mention it so that people wondering "What on Earth??!?" get a better explanation and a feel for the 3-D Philly skyline she will be teaching.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2012/02/is-picture-worth-1000-words.html

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

Thanksgiving in February

Folks are keeping Vicky DeAngelis so busy that she is losing track of what holiday happens when!  Luckily she is working on a darling new Thanksgiving canvas so she can be kept busy, no matter what month it is.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/02/17/it-seems-like-i-cant-keep-my-holidays-straight/


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

I Didn't Know I Needed That

After a friend mentioned her new ribbon laying tool from Fireside Stitchery, I took a little tour of their Accessories page.  There are 20 pages of stuff I didn't know I needed!
http://www.firesidestitchery.com/fs/accessories/index.cfm?fuseaction=accessorySearch&searchString=&showStart=1&groupNo=1

I didn't know that there are bullion needles, that there are frog magnets available (charms against having to Rip It), what Oli clips are and much much more.  By the way, the ribbon laying tool is called the English Laying Tool and it is on page 20.  Short and dull tipped, she swears it really works great with silk ribbons.

If you want to see how Oli Clips work and see some of the canvas colors available from Nature's Palette, Pocket Full of Stitches has information for you.
http://www.pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/02/natures-palette-and-oli-clips.html

If you just need a new magnet, here are some hand painted ones in stock at Needle Bug.  There are lots of sheep, Christmas and just things like a gnome working at his desk.
http://theneedlebug.com/2012/02/handpainted-magnets/


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

Landscape Stitches on the iPad

A lot of folks are hooked on eBook Readers, whether they are varieties of Kindles or Nooks, the iPad series from Apple, or smart phones like the iPhone or Android phones.  Melita has done us all a service by showing off the screen of her iPad with the stitch she is using for the sky for her current piece.  The eBook she is using is Landscape Stitches from the Little Shoppe folks.  Of course this is available as a physical book as well.
http://bristlythistle.blogspot.com/2011/05/landscape-stitches-book.html


This book is optimized for the iPod Touch or iPhone, not the iPad, but you can use the controls to increase the size of the diagram and that is what Melita shows us here--the difference between the 1X and 2X settings on her iPad.  She tells us a little about the eBook in her article, too.
http://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2012/02/11/night-sky-on-christmas-trees/

All this is useful information if you are thinking about splurging on an eBook and want to know if it looks better on an iPhone than an iPad.  We all have different sorts of eyes and what works for me might not work for you and vice versa.


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

Orna's New Designs and Classes

If you are a fan of the cheerful and intricate designs of Orna Willis, you'll want to visit her blog to see two new designs, new class information and an announcement of a permanent addition to her online store.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2012/02/new-designs-and-new-threads.html


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

Counted Canvaswork International (and Otherwise)

Someone on the ANG email list mentioned a commemorative design for Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee in needlepoint, so I obediently trotted over to the website to see it. When I arrived, I browsed a bit and realized that there are all kinds of counted thread pieces here that U.S. stitchers might like to stitch.  So this is for you guys--enjoy!
http://needle-point.co.uk/index.htm

They also sell painted canvases from Ann Pearson, so painted canvas folks can have a nice browse as well.

Ro Pace is getting ready to teach cyber classes and Seminar classes.
http://designsbyro.blogspot.com/2012/02/still-alive.html

Liz Morrow has finished a new design.  The chart isn't available yet, but soon.
http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2012/02/bitter-springs-finished.html

Turning to Texas, Kimberly has a new design created for a class at Needle Works in Austin.  I hope this is released as a chart one day as I love the irregular edges and the texture of the stitches. Bet it is gorgeous in person.
http://akimberlydesign.blogspot.com/2012/02/step-one.html

How about a study of the variations possible using just one stitch?
http://stitchything.blogspot.com/2012/02/debbie-rowleys-rollicking-rhodes-study.html

Needle Delights is showing off her new designs on her blog.
http://needledelightsoriginals.blogspot.com/2012/02/countdown-to-nashville.html

http://needledelightsoriginals.blogspot.com/2012/02/rio.html


http://needledelightsoriginals.blogspot.com/2012/02/new-jewel-gemstone-design.html

http://needledelightsoriginals.blogspot.com/2012/02/brilliant-color.html

Our final stop is back at Orna Willis' blog where she shows off a new design in three different sets of colors. It's not ready for her shop yet, but soon!
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2012/02/congrats.html

Anyone who thinks counted canvaswork is in decline just has to look at the above to discover how wrong they are.


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

Another Dog Find

Lewmew's question about blogs that feature dogs and dog canvases, led me to the A Dragon's Tale website where I found a page all about famous pets from the needlepoint world.
http://adragonstaleneedlepoint.blogspot.com/search/label/Needle%20Pets%20by%20Darcie

I'd totally forgotten their Spoiled Brats canvases, but....
http://adragonstaleneedlepoint.blogspot.com/search/label/Animals%3A%20Spoiled%20Brats

...their Victorian Pets series was new to me.
http://adragonstaleneedlepoint.blogspot.com/search/label/Victorian%20Pets

They do cats pretty well, too.  Check out the Canvas of the Day for a very bored cat and his/her glamorous owner!

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

Face and Hair Stitches

Sue has written a great article about stitching faces with tent stitches on her Sudukc blog.  She uses color to give her faces personality.  Make sure you click on the tiny thumbnail photos of each face.  Those marks you see are actually numbers so you can see exactly the examples she mentions in each section and understand what she did where and perhaps use these ideas on your own faces. The eye treatment of the geisha is particularly clever, but each face shows how you can mix tent stitches with the right color to get a wonderfully expressive face whether your face is realistic or more cartoonish.
http://sudukc.wordpress.com/2012/02/13/torin-ailfred-opatrick-and-faces/

If you find Toppy irresistible, here are more postings as he grows.
http://sudukc.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/with-a-sparkle-in-my-eye-and-a-smile-on-my-face/

http://sudukc.wordpress.com/2012/03/05/too-many-irons-and-toppy-too/

http://sudukc.wordpress.com/2012/03/29/my-plate-broke-but-i-am-back-toppy-too/

By coincidence, Janet Perry has a short article up about three ways to stitch hair. None is particularly difficult but they all give realistic hair effects.
http://www.nuts-about-needlepoint.com/ideas-for-stitching-hair

Many thanks to both ladies for showing how simple stitches can breath life into a needlepoint face!


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

Roger

Roger

Because of yesterday's dog canvas posting, I got a wonderful email from Susan who stitched the above Ewe and Eye canvas (now distributed by Maggie) for her sister.  The canvas is named Roger.  Here's a nice big photo, followed by a link to the same canvas at a shop site.
http://www.eweandeyeandfriends.com/html/larger_view.php?currentPage=21&recordId=1128

http://theneedlepointer.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=21&products_id=8695

He's a handsome guy and must have made her sister very happy!  Thanks for sharing, Susan, and helping with websites.  Folks who are curious about other canvases along the same lines can check out the other dog designs (plus many other animals) on the Ewe and Eye website.

http://www.eweandeyeandfriends.com/html/designs.html

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

Have You Pinned Yet? UPDATED

The latest Internet rage is Pinterest, a way to collect and "pin" images in collections.  Needlepoint.com has started a nice little collection here.  As far as I know, this is the only shop participating but I've heard of cross stitch designers and fellow stitchers who are doing so.  It's by invitation only right now, but the invites are there for the asking.
http://pinterest.com/needlepoint_com/

Thanks to Donna, I have a Pinterest page full of various versions of Stars for a New Millennium.  Thanks!
http://pinterest.com/brncgirl/stars-for-a-new-millenium/

If you want to see more Pinterest pages, try River Silks' pages.
http://www.riversilks.com/wordpress/?p=835


In the interest of full disclosure, you should know that a lot of folks object to Pinterest's changing links so that they make money off what you pin.  I know about this thanks to Julie at Shop Sampler. Follow her links if you want to learn more.
http://theshopsampler.wordpress.com/2012/02/08/pinterest-shining-some-light-on-possibly-shadey-practice/


Some users don't mind. Whether you do or don't, it would be nice if they disclosed this to users when they sign up.

UPDATE:  Here's what Sharon Boggins has to say about Pinterest.
http://www.pintangle.com/journal/2012/3/24/why-i-ask-people-not-to-pin-this-site-on-pinterest.html


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

Bow Wow

Cape Cod Dogs they don't chase cars they like to pick up girls in bars!

Lewmew mentioned in the Comments section that she loves dog canvases and is looking for a blogger who talks about their dogs and dog designs both. I don't know of anyone who shows off a lot of dog canvases, but several bloggers I know have dogs and mention them occasionally, just not as often as Lewmew would like.  Sorry!  I can tell you about dog canvases and designers who have some spectacular ones, however.  If you like realistic dog canvases, Barbara Russell and Tapestry Tent are the places to start.  Here is Barbara's website.  Click on any thumbnail to see the entire canvas.
http://barbararusselldesigns.com/browse.html

I found the most Tapestry Tent dog canvases on The Needlepointer's website, but it takes a little work to get to them.  Go to the link below and choose Tapestry Tent from the list on the left side of the page.  Then use the pull down menu in the middle right under Tapestry Tent's name to choose Dogs.  You'll get two pages of delightful canvases.
http://www.theneedlepointer.com/store/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=71

Amanda Lawford also has some great detailed realistic dog pieces from Constance Coleman, just not as many as the first two designers.   Here's where you can see them.  Just put your mouse on top of a thumbnail and the entire design will appear.
http://www.amandalawford.com/products/coleman1.html


There are other designers with an occasional wonderful dog canvas here and there.  Top Drawer has a page of dog and cat designs that gives a wide range of styles.
http://www.topdrawer-needlepoint.com/canvases/index.cgi?Field=category&Key=Cats-and-Dogs&Sort=title&disp=thumbs&ptitle=Cats%20and%20Dogs

If humorous canine canvases are what you want, Maggie is the place to start.  Her dog canvases are in two locations.  Choose "Cats and Dogs" from the Category pull down menu.  Once you are done there, return to this page and click on "Our Faithful Friends" at the bottom of the page.
http://www.maggieco.com/html/main_table.html

If you want stylized dog canvases, I love the Paper Russells ones that DJ Designs distributes.
http://www.designsdj.com/paperrussells.html

I have to admit my very favorite dog canvases are from Shorebird Studio.  They are not totally realistic but they are all elegance.  Click on "New in 2012" on the left side of the page to see the new poodle design, then click on "Pet Portraits" to see both custom pieces and Katie Molineux's terrific dog ornaments.
http://shorebirdstudio.com/

By the way, my Cape Cod Dogs purse above is an Elizabeth Mumford painting translated into needlepoint by Needlepoint of Back Bay.
http://www.needlepointofbackbay.com/product_pages/Elizabeth-Mumford.htm

I know I've forgotten great canvases, so why not help me out by mentioning your favorite dog canvas in the Comments below?


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

For Charley Harper Fans

Here's a special treat for fans of Charley Harper designs.  They are all stitched with the same or very similar stitches and framed the same way to make a unified collection of cardinals.  Fabulous!
http://needleartnut.blogspot.com/2012/02/flying-together.html


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

Spiders and Webs and Color Magic

Belleza with Her Spider and Spider Web

If you have been keeping up with Sheena's stitching of Pocito, you will have seen she added a spider to her piece.  If you haven't seen her spider, you can take a look here.
http://sheenassweetstitches.com/reporting-on-anything-i-want-today/2012/01/sample-post/

My Belleza has a spider painted on her chin and a spider web on her right cheek, so I thought I'd stitch those as well so you could have Arachnids Everywhere.  The chin spider was easy and quick and looks quite nice, if you are a Day of the Dead skeleton, that is.  But the spider web gave me fits!

Can you see the spider web?  No?  I can't either!  The silver threads just disappear.  I am going to have to rip out the part of the web I have stitched and use another color.  What you see on the left side are all the threads I laid out to see what shows up well.  I like the pastel pinks and blues and violets, but they disappear on the white background just like the silver thread does. I'd really prefer navy but it won't work with the other colors on her face.   I finally choose the boring black thread as it will both show up and work well with the colorful tattoos on her head.  Oh, well, there will be plenty of color on Belleza in other places and a spider needs to be able to find their web.

Is there a glow in the dark thread in black?


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

More Loretta Spears

I've been busy working with about fifteen other people to add more information and photographs to the Loretta Spears Design Archive.
http://lorettaspears.blogspot.com

There's been something new every day for most of January and I think I can keep that up for half of February, too.  But there are still a lot of pieces we need information about.  Search your stash to help us out, please!  If you don't have any Loretta pieces finished you can photograph, or charts put away you can pull out to read to see what you can add about that piece (dates, materials lists, etc.), then just visit to browse and see if you can find any mistakes.  Proofreaders are welcome!  Email me at LorettaSpearsDesigns@gmail.com with any help you can give.  Thank you!


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

23,438 Photographs of Japanese Embroidery

The website below is a Japanese Embroidery group that works together via the Internet. The photographs show off everyone's work in various stages, although it's not all JE of course. It's an amazing and inspiring place to visit for us non-JE folks as well. Take some time to browse and enjoy!
http://stitchinfingers.ning.com/photo

By the way, they are always looking for new members, so if you are into JE, you should look into joining.


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

Need a Sign?

If you need a sign stating just who you are for your bedroom door, your new tote bag, the wall of your office or den, etc., Raymond Crawford has you covered.  He specializes in graphic patterns and fun, both of which combine nicely into things like Glamour Girl, or Poker King or Football Widow or Softball Girl.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/01/more-from-raymond-crawford.html


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

If You Have A Dog...

...you will want to check this out.
http://stitchplaywithneedlepointtooltime.blogspot.com/2012/02/dog-leash-holder-by-lisa-krause.html

Lisa Krause makes a lot of custom frames for Maggie and Ewe and Eye designs.  (Maggie distributes Ewe and Eye.)  You can see a selection of them on the Needlepoint Tool Time website as well as her new game board.
http://www.needlepointtooltime.com/

Speaking of dogs, I just discovered very nice dog portraits by Kirk and Hamilton.
The bulldog is my favorite.
http://www.needlepoint.com/all-canvases/animals/cats-dogs/british-bulldog.html

However, the Airedale is very regal, and...
http://www.needlepoint.com/airedale-terrier.html

...the Jack Russell and the Dalmation puppy are darling.
http://www.needlepoint.com/all-canvases/animals/cats-dogs/jack-russell.html

http://www.needlepoint.com/all-canvases/animals/cats-dogs/dalmatian.html

Most Kirk and Hamilton dogs I'm familiar with are stylized and humorous.  Like this--
http://www.needlepoint.com/all-canvases/animals/cats-dogs/black-labrador-xmas-circle.html

I'm glad to see them branching out their style a bit.

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

Needlepoint Baseball Caps

If Peggi from Tapestry Fair hadn't seen this article and mentioned it to the Facebook Needlepoint Group, I would have had no idea that needlepointed baseball caps existed.
http://articles.boston.com/2012-02-07/arts/31036596_1_needlepoint-hats-fashion-statement

Here's their website.  Good luck to the siblings in bringing Cape Cod style to heads everywhere!  And thank you, Peggi.
http://www.harding-lane.com/


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

Cleaning Antique Fabrics

While reading the Washington Post online, I stumbled across a link to this fabulous article on cleaning antique quilts. Many of the tips will apply to any type of fabric although the article is written with quilts in mind.
http://www.hartcottagequilts.com/quiltcare.htm


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

Slide Show Preferences

Here's another poll, this one about the two slide shows I posted this morning. As I mentioned, the free software that I used for slide shows has been purchased by Google, which is shutting it down early next month, so I have to find other software to use. It has to be a) free, b) store the photos somewhere else than a Google account since my Google account photo storage for Blog isn't limitless and c) be something all Blog visitors can use.


I came up with two choices:  Smilebox (that's the slide show with the lovely graphics that is embedded in the posting) and Picassa (which is the one with the URL you click to go see the slide show elsewhere).  I just posted a poll asking which you prefer.  Each has its pros and cons but I am interested in which you like best.  So tell me what you think, please!

Note that the Smilebox graphics hide some of the canvases and the ULR slide show doesn't. Does that make a difference to you?


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

End of an Era

Looks like the JCA Crafts company is closing its doors. They are the source for Paternayan wool as well as many needlepoint kits.
http://www.kelsea.ca/2012/02/10/paternayan-jca-kits/

It's a sad end.  Nothing in my opinion is better for upholstery and rugs than Paternayan wool.  However, there is nothing on their website so perhaps the news is wrong.  I hope so!
http://www.jcacrafts.com/contact/index.php


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

The Missing Sheep and Her Kin

Remember me posting about a sheep canvas I was trying to track down? Thanks to my spy network, I have more information about the canvas. It is a discontinued design from S and S which Julia's Needlework used to distribute.  There were quite a few animals in the series which was taken from the Krinkles ornaments that Department 54 sells, and since the copying was done without permission, the series was dropped.

Carole has graciously shared photos of the ones she owns. They are in a photo album at the link below. You can play a slide show of the canvases by pushing the Slideshow button above the canvas of the chicken in a bow tie. (CHICKEN in a bow tie?!!) To end the slideshow, push your Escape key.
https://picasaweb.google.com/102117864343802967606/SSJuliaSAnimals?locked=true&feat=email 

I've also created a second slideshow here. I'm testing new ways to show photos since the old Slide.com site I used is shutting down in March. I'll do a poll shortly asking which type slideshow you like best. (Stay tuned for that excitement. LOL)

This photo slideshow personalized with Smilebox

Carole thinks there are more in the series, but only one is left at her LNS--the cat in the red ermine trimmed robe. If you are interested, give the shop a call. http://www.stitchandframelafayette.com/Needlepoint_by_Designers/Needlepoint_Designers/Julia.htm 

That cat happens to be a canvas we've seen and admired before. It is on the Homestead Needlearts's website where it is called Queenie and is beautifully stitched by Cheryl Robinson. Sadly, Homestead doesn't have any of the series left. http://www.homesteadneedlearts.com/StitchersShowcase.html 

Many thanks to Cheryl, to Theresa, and to Carole for help tracking that illusive sheep. Anyone who has one of the series in their shop or stash and wants to part with it, let me know by email to chillyhollow at hotmail dot com or in a Comment below. I'm still hunting that sheep!

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

Jean Hilton Revisited UPDATED

It's hard to believe that Jean Hilton is dead. Her designs are all around us, reminders of her revolutionary impact on needlepoint when her geometrics burst upon the NP scene in the 1980s. There was nothing like them at the time and even now her impact is still showing up with each and every design that uses "Hilton stitches."  You can check out her work at Stitches From the Heart, which publishes her designs now and which probably will occasionally release new pieces, such as Quidity.
http://stitches-heart.com/jean-hilton-designs/

Note that if you bought a Quidity chart when it first came out, the original cover photo was a variation on the design.  Stitches From the Heart will gladly replace the original cover page with the correct one if you just email them.  Keep in mind, though, you have a wonderful variation that's worth keeping, even if you pick up the correct cover page.
http://stitches-heart.com/new-cover-for-quidity/

By the way, they also have information about Arliss' different colorways for ScottLee and a photo if you want to follow in her footsteps.
http://stitches-heart.com/different-colorway-for-scottlee/

UPDATE:  Arliss tells me that Scarlet Thread can kit up her very popular color scheme of blue, green and rose if you are interested.
http://stores.intuitwebsites.com/ScarletThread/-strse-Charts-cln-Jean-Hilton/Categories.bok


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

More Ace

Laura Perin is tempting us with a glimpse of her new piece, "Ace of Diamonds," which is a diamond filled geometric in icy blues and purples. It's lovely but I can't help thinking what a magnificent set of playing card backs this might make.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2012/01/stops-and-starts.html

By the way, don't forget Laura's older designs.  As she demonstrates here, they are timeless and also fun color exercises.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2012/01/old-favorite.html

UPDATE:  Ace is revealed!  Here's what Scarlet Thread says about the design.
http://stitchything.blogspot.com/2012/02/dazzling-ace-of-diamonds.html

You can buy the chart directly from her website if your shop doesn't have it in stock yet.
http://laurajperindesigns.tripod.com/


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

Rumor Mill: ANG SOTM Thread Shortage

According to Needle in a Haystack, ThreadworX's overdyed floss #1089, which is used in the ANG Stitch of the Month program for 2012, is going to be hard to get for the next month.  You might want to check around and see if another shop has it if you are certain you want to use the model colors from the ANG website.
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2012/02/threadworx-floss-1089-out-of-stock.html


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

Julia Plus Ruth Equals Happy Birthday

Ruth Schmuff has announced a special 5th Birthday Party class in her Baltimore suburbs shop, Bedecked and Beaddazzled. What fun! The details of the class on an original piece taught by Julia Snyder are on the shop website.
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/visitingTeachers.php


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

Rumor Mill: Petei's Retiring UPDATED

The rumor mill says shops are getting letters from Petei announcing her retirement.  If you need to stock up on your Petei fix now (just in case no one picks up her line), here are some places to buy--Ridgewood says they will be putting their Petei canvases on their website later today.
http://www.ridgewoodneedlepoint.com/

UPDATE:  Ridgewood only has two Petei canvases left.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2012/02/one-of-our-beloved-designers-petei-has.html

I don't know how many Petei Santa canvases and stitch guide kits are in stock at The French Knot, but I wouldn't wait to long to order your favorites.
http://www.thefrenchknot.com/x-petei.htm

Needlenook of La Jolla has three pages of canvass from Petei.  I think the Statue of Liberty one is particularly cute myself.
http://www.needlenookoflajolla.com/storedir/products.php?cat=121

Lots and lots of Peteis here.  Oh, I like that donkey!  (Wait, some of the pictured items are out of stock.  Check the number before you try to buy.)
http://theneedleworks.com/catalog/index.php?manufacturers_id=18&osCsid=m7t9uv5ik5dmnjmm7g8leo2kt6


I'm sure there are more shops with lots of Petei goodies but I'm running out of time.  If your shop has a nice stock, please add a Comment or you can email me at chilly hollowat hotmaildotcom and I'll post the comment for you.  Thanks!


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

Little Monday Mystery on Thursday

I write Blog entries ahead of time, sometimes weeks ahead of the publication day. So I guess the fact that I'm just getting around to mentioning Laura Perin's latest Mini Monday Mystery posting on Thursday isn't too far behind!  Sorry.  It's a great lesson, with lots of customization tips from Laura.

http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2012/02/mini-mystery-monday-5-part-3.html


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

Humphrey Bogart and Goldie Hawn

Donna has been busy. I'll let her tell the story in her own way....
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2012/02/shorn-yet-determined.html


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

Are You Thinking Storage Furniture, Too?

The Colorado Stitcher admired the same craft cabinet I looked at, but she went beyond admiration and bought it.  I am very glad to know that this really has to be assembled in total and is very heavy.  That means it's not a good choice for me, although it also means it is very sturdy.
http://acoloradostitcher.blogspot.com/2012/01/new-studio-furniture.html


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

Name That Stocking

Unnamed 1989 Loretta Spears Design

I have another mystery for Blog's readers to solve. Recognize this stocking? The photo is from an old eBay auction that describes the materials in the kit but doesn't name the stocking. It doesn't seem to be one of Loretta Spears' mystery pieces but it is definitely one of her designs. Do you know what it is called? Or anything else about it?


If you know anything, please add a comment here in the Comments section or email me at LorettaSpearsDesigns@gmail.com so I can add the information to the Loretta Spears site.
http://lorettaspears.blogspot.com/2012/02/another-loretta-mystery-to-be-solved.html

Loretta's many fans thank you!


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

Wisdom Each Wednesday

Amy Bunger has a new feature on her website--Amy's Wednesday Wisdom.  Once a week Amy will select from questions emailed to her or sent to her Amy's Golden Strand Facebook page and answer them in full.  If you go to the page and don't see answers, not to worry.  Click on Expand All and Amy's words of wisdom will magically appear.
http://www.amybunger.com/wisdom.html#


By the way, Amy's three day monthly sale will happen next Friday-Saturday-Sunday (Feb. 17-19).  So get ready for the treasure hunt!
http://www.amybunger.com/online_3day_special.html


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

The Daylight Slimline Lamp

Are you in the market for a light that attaches to your floor stand?   Linda shows off what she uses--a Daylight Slimline Lamp.
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2012/01/daylight-for-stand.html


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

A Valentine to Guilds

On February 14 I like to send a big Valentine to someone or something that has helped my stitching a lot in the last year. This year's love note goes to my ANG chapter, San Bernardino Chapter ANG. It is constantly encouraging the membership, whether local or long distance like me, to learn and grow as stitchers. The results are on this page. http://sbneedlepoint.org/gallery.html

If you have trouble with the slide show or want to study the great stitching, just click on the link under the slide show navigation bar to see everything laid out.

Actually, here's to all guilds and their local chapters. Where would we be without our fellow stitchers!?!


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

Background First or Last?

The poll asking whether you always do your background first or last, or if it depends on the design, is over.  131 people voted, but this time of year 1200-1400 folks a day visit Blog, so I am not sure if we can apply what a bit over ten percent of us said to all stitchers.

The results?  Of 131 respondents, 76 (that's 58 percent) always do their background last while 45 people (34 percent) say it depends on the canvas  And bringing up the rear are 10 folks like me, who always do the background first.  That's a bit over 7 percent of the total responding.

Thanks for answering my question.  As I said before, I don't think there is a right or wrong way to approach the background first/last question, but I do think those of us who always work the same way are wired differently than those who take the sensible approach and look at how the canvas is designed before choosing which area to stitch first and last.

Jane, blowing kisses to the 9 like me and waving merrily to the rest


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

Charming Valentine Story

Jody Valentine's got a wonderful Valentine's Day story for us plus lots of Valentine ornaments to enjoy.
http://jodydesigns.typepad.com/jodyinthestudio/2012/02/valentine-needlepointstitch-a-heart.html

Will you Blog readers be my Valentine?

XOXO from CH

(that means hugs and kisses if you aren't up on handwritten notes circa 1967)


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

The One That Got Away

I know the feeling!
http://stitchymcfloss.blogspot.com/2011/04/ann-spiess-mills-and-needlepoint.html


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

New from SharonG

Cat and Owl by SharonG

I've been dying for SharonG's website to be updated and today it is!  There are new single canvas versions of some of her famous Tripych pieces, new flowers, several owl and cat designs that'll blow your socks off, and two tiny jewel-like oriental rug designs.

http://sharong.com/catalog/new.html

The small Cat and Owl is my favorite but I know the realistic cats have many many fans (and a third cat canvas in this series is underway) and of course there are always the SharonG classics to stitch.  Her fountain pens, bra and tap pants sets, and those lovely scenes of Italy and France she does never ever go out of style.


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

Alice Peterson Trunk Show

Needlework Unlimited in Minneapolis has announced their trunk show for February features Alice Peterson.  Although the company is best known to most of us for their Stitch and Zip pieces (especially the eBook cases), they do a lot of colorful floral canvases that scream Spring!  The discount is fifteen percent for every trunk show item, so
http://ittybittyhats.typepad.com/whats_new_at_needlework_u/2012/02/february-11-2012.html

If you don't happen to live near the shop, you can browse the Alice Peterson site to see what might be available that you really "need."
http://www.alicepetersoncompany.com/


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

Aristeia Melissa Shirley Trunk Show Extravaganza

Aristeia is planning to have another great Melissa Shirley trunk show extravaganza, with two personal appearances by Melissa herself, classes on some of her designs, and of course, twenty percent off the trunk show canvases.  This runs from Feb. 13-18 (today's the 13th!), so if you are anywhere in the Santa Monica area, mark your calendar and start planning a road trip.
http://www.aristeianeedlepoint.com/


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

Twisty Ribbon Roses

BeStitched has posted a nice demonstration of how to make a very easy ribbon rose.  It is beautiful and very easy.  Can't beat that!
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/ribbon-roses-demo-video/


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

Gallery of Fabulous Finishes

I love looking at photos of finished pieces. I get ideas for my own finishing, I get to see designs I didn't know existed, and I am always amazed by the talented stitchers who live among us. Nimble Needle in Atlanta has put up a lovely Gallery of finished pieces for us to browse this morning.  I recommend you click on the first thumbnail, then use the Next button to stroll through the larger photographs.
http://www.atlantanimbleneedle.com/gallery.html


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

Pepita Poses the Question

If it were me, I'd make it into a pillow while immediately starting her on Project #2.  How would you handle something like this?
http://needlepointofview.com/2012/01/18/give-the-kid-her-pillow/

Many thanks to Pepita for the thought-provoking link.

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

The Embroidered Box

Have you seen the fancy covered boxes of the 17th Century here and there?


Tricia Nguyen is talking about the work that went into her reproduction casket class on her blog.  There are only four short entries so far, so it'll be easy for you to catch up on the story and then bookmark the site to see how a casket class was born and gain insights into these wonderful boxes made and then decorated with all kinds of embroidery 400 years ago.
http://thistle-threads.com/blog/

Want to see some embroidered caskets?  Choose a link from this list and click.
http://www.larsdatter.com/embroidered-caskets.htm

Here's a bit about the Cabinet of Curiosities Class, which is sadly full.  I believe there is a sign up sheet for a second class, assuming that Tricia can get all the materials again.
http://www.thistle-threads.com/teaching/projects/onlineclasses/casket/casket_registration.html



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

Janet Perry's 2012 Cyberclass

Janet has announced her cyber class for this year. It's all about color, baby!  The class starts in March, so you have some time to look at the class description and...
http://www.nuts-about-needlepoint.com/2012-needlepoint-club-color-through-the-ages

...ponder the colors.
http://www.nuts-about-needlepoint.com/color-through-the-ages-sneak-peek

Janet's also planning a new book.
http://www.nuts-about-needlepoint.com/whats-your-needlepoint-question-book-sneak-peek

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

TNNA News: On the Website

Now that the biggest trade show of the year is over and designers are home, unpacked and have the first rush of orders out the door, they are updating their websites.  Jelly Bean Stock has added a lot of lovely floral designs as well as some really funny pieces.  They usually do movie references, too.  This time they mention "When Harry Met Sally."
http://www.jellybeanstock.com/whatsnew.html


HP Designs has also updated their websites.  The new barn animal canvases are totally unique but of course they have new wonderful Asian-themed designs and fabulous wild animals.
http://hpneedlepoint.com/NEW2011-2012.html

Patt and Lee have updated their PJs and Chocolate (these are their painted canvases) pages with new animal canvas, many of which are HILARIOUS.
http://www.pattandleedesigns.com/2012_new_designs_--_animals

Maggie's also updated her website with new fun, colorful pieces.
http://www.maggieco.com/html/drill.php?category=7

Barbara Russell hasn't updated her website yet but Nimble Needle has photos and information about some of her newest designs.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2012/02/tnna-phoenix-2012-introductions-from.html

Needle Nicely is getting in new Eye Candy and Trubey pieces.
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2012/02/special-visit-and-some-canvases.html

PFOS has a few new Zecca and Kathy Schenkel canvases now to view before their websites are updated.  They also have new Alice Peterson, Little Shoppe, Susan Roberts and Barbara Bergsten designs to see.  Hurrah!  Don't you just love seeing the newest canvases?
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/02/new-zecca-and-ks-designs.html

http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/02/more-new-canvases.html


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

Books for Sale

New Needlepoint has June McKnight's new Bling book (and the Halloween one from last year) at a very good price! I think shipping's free, too, so if you want these books, this is a good place to pick them up.
http://needlepointtalk.net/2012/02/04/june-mcknights-blingy-book


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

Community of Stitchers

I am HAPPY

It constantly amazes me how many people live in my computer, people I am getting to know fairly well, even though I have never met them in person and perhaps never will.  We laugh and play and stitch together and it feels like a small town.  We listen when someone's spouse dies, we commiserate when that perfect canvas we want is sold out all over the world, we help each other with ideas for our stitching and rummage in our stashes for dyelots of thread for someone else in need.  And we talk and talk and talk.

This morning on Facebook Barbara posted a photo of a piece she's going to teach.  It shows a blue door in a courtyard wall and I immediately wanted to know what was behind the door.
http://stitchpography.blogspot.com/2012/02/whats-inside.html


Last weekend Ruth Schmuff's shop had a Superbowl Sunday sale and I sent her a playful email, asking if the canvas I wanted was available.  My message made its way to her announcement of the sale.  Just shows what a small world we live in, doesn't it?
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/02/lets-have-super-bowl-party.html

The canvas I bought on sale is Ruth's computer pixie.  It shows the pixie in front of her computer, dreaming away.  Appropriate, no?  That's it here, stitched by Sheena James.  Her stitch guide comes with this canvas.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/01/what-minx.html

There are several pixie canvases available.  Vicky DeAngelis' guides come with the Kitchen Pixie and with the Needlepoint Pixie.
 http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/06/19/the-dishes-are-done/

http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/06/26/shes-finished/

You can see all the pixies here.  I'm tempted by the Refrigerator Pixie and the Sweet Dreams Pixie, but the Computer Pixie shows how we are all carried somewhere else by our computers, so that's the one I choose.
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/products.php?catid=17&firstcid=3

I am happy (see photo above)!

I am also wrapped up because it is cold outside.


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

Shop News From All Over

A lot of shops have updated their blogs with news of their new offerings. If you are a monthly club fan, you'll want to see the newest models for both Needle Works' fish and angel monthly clubs.
http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2012/01/another-fish-done.html

Needle in a Haystack has a lot of new (and some old favorites) back in stock.  The shop maintains one of my favorite online resources--photos of all the threads they stock.  If you need to mail order threads sight unseen, this is very very useful.
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2012/02/a-few-new-items-in-stock.html

When Tisha of Needlepoint Tool Time went to the TNNA show in Phoenix, she hit shops along the way.  Here's her short review of Needler's Nest which is located in Surprise, Arizona.  If you follow the link to her website, there's a slide show at the bottom of the home page showing her new tool purchases for her shop.
http://stitchplaywithneedlepointtooltime.blogspot.com/2012/02/needlers-nest.html

Ruth Schmuff of Bedecked and Beaddazzled has photos of the most unusual pillows I've ever seen.  Whether you'd ever want to stitch this Zecca set, it's still something to see!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/02/box-pillow-puzzles-outside-of-box.html


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