Wednesday Wisdom

In case you haven't been keeping track, Amy Bunger's been posting answers to NP questions on her website each Wednesday. The last posting covers what to do if your painted canvas is damaged. To see the answers, click on the date of the question.
http://www.amybunger.com/wisdom.html#


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

Assembling and Using a Bargello Library

By coincidence, BargelloNeedlepoint.com posted an article on how to assemble a library of bargello books at the same time that...
http://bargelloneedlepoint.com/set-up-a-a-bargello-needlepoint-library/

...Janet Perry wrote an article on her site about how to best use the old charts and directions in bargello books form the 1970s.
http://www.nuts-about-needlepoint.com/bargello-books-old-and-new

BargelloNeedlepoint.com also lists recommended books and has links to buy them via Amazon if you are interested.  Here are three good places to find used bargello books (not to mention new ones):
http://www.newneedlepoint.com/content-categories/cat-213/new_bargello_books.html

http://www.needleworkbooks.com/searchresults.asp?key=bargello&Con=True

http://www.ruthkernbooks.com/

While looking for the links above, I found a new used needlework online shop, but I don't know anything about it.  The three above are well known bookstores, however.  I've bought from all three and can guarantee their customer service.
http://www.needleartsbookshop.com/Needlepoint_Book_Room.html

If you are lucky enough to have a used bookstore in your vicinity, check it out.  Your library may sell bargello books in their book sales, and of course your local needlepoint shop may occasionally have bargello books, new and old, for sale.


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

A Pillow Is Born

SukyLady has been stitching a Halloween design and in this blog posting, shows how she turned it into a pillow.  It's great fun to see how she does it, and very instructional whether you plan to make up a pillow yourself or just want to see how it is done.
http://sukylady.blogspot.com/2012/03/finishing-off-halloween-treat.html


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

Another Little Monday Mystery UPDATED

Laura Perin has cooked up another tiny mystery piece, free on her blog. Expect the next lessons in successive Mondays.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2012/03/mini-mystery-monday-7-part-1.html

Part two has flowers (and lots of options to choose from).
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2012/04/mini-mystery-monday-8-pt-2.html


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

Bead Essays

I've been seeing an interesting trend this winter--needlepoint teachers and designers are starting to post little essays online to help folks understand various topics, especially attaching beads to needlepoint canvas.   Adding beads to needlepoint is a more complex subject than you would think since beads come in many sizes and shapes and there are a lot of effects people use (solid beading, scattered beads, couched rows, beads added like tent stitches, etc.).  Alice Hall at BeStitched has started a series of Bead Basics.  Here is her first essay which talks about various types of beads and the supplies you will need to bead.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/beading-lesson-from-alice-hall/

As Alice adds to the series, I'll update this article.  You don't have to wait to see how to attach beads until Alice posts again, however.

Stitchlady got to take a class from Sundance's Cassie Prescott and learned a really neat beading technique.
http://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2012/03/28/arizona-wild-flower/

Joni Stevenson has started her own essay on attaching beads to needlepoint canvas by outlining three ways this can be done that are fairly good at keeping beads steady and then talking about what threads to use for beading.  She also raises an important point--whether to match the thread used to attach beads to the bead or the underlying needlepoint canvas?
http://creative-stitch.blogspot.com/2012/03/beads-on-canvas-part-1.html

Part 2 from Joni talks about types and sizes of beads with a bit of information about needles that are useful in beading.
http://creative-stitch.blogspot.com/2012/03/beads-on-canvas-part-2.html

Again, I'll update this article as Alice and Joni add more information online.  By the way, ANG has added an article from the September 1998 Needlepointers on beads to their Archive.
http://www.needlepoint.org/Archives/StitchingBeadsontoCanvas/index.php


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

Thread Essays

I've been seeing an interesting trend this winter--needlepoint teachers and designers are starting to post little essays online to help folks understand various topics, especially attaching beads to needlepoint canvas.   But before I give you links to those bead essays, here are Kathy Holman's thread thoughts, starting with her essays on novelty threads which tells you what size and type of thread will work on what size NP canvas using perle cotton and floss as size standards and tent stitches as the baseline for what will work in other types of stitches.
http://needleartjourney.blogspot.com/2012/03/novelty-threads-by-kathy-holman.html

http://needleartjourney.blogspot.com/2012/03/more-thread-talk-by-kathy.html

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

New Designs Appear

New designs are starting to appear, with the Dallas trade show about to happen. Here is Sandy Grossman-Morris' new night light canvas. It comes with a stitch guide and will be available next week.
http://sandygrossman-morris.blogspot.com/2012/03/autumn-in-spring.html

Lani has posted two pages of new canvases on her site.  The dogs are particularly appealing to me.
http://www.lanisneedlepoint.com/newdesignsmarch2012.aspx

Vicky is showing hints of the tree club she stitched for shops to order from Needle Deeva.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/03/28/on-the-road-with-the-fab-firs/


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

Scissors Just for Metallics?

Kreink says yes!
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2012/03/which-scissors-should-you-use-with.html

Personally, I agree with them.  Even my non-metallic Kreinik threads seem to dull my scissors more than regular threads, so I have a pair of scissors set aside just to cut metallic type threads.  There is a special type of scissors with a serrated blade made especially for metallics but since I don't do a lot of metal thread embroidery, I just have a pair of regular embroidery scissors that are for metallic threads only.  If you are interested, however, here's some information about the special metallic threads scissors.
http://www.nordicneedle.com/305-371-1525.html

They've also researched the originals of stork scissors.  If you are curious, read this.  Kreinik's having a scissors sale, by the way.  They are wholesale only but you can ask your local shop to order at sale prices if you hurry.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2012/03/spring-scissor-sale-and-thing-or-two.html


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

Bring Out Your Buttons and Beads

If you have a collection of old buttons, Laura Perin's latest long rectangular design (it's called "Long Spring Panel") is a perfect place to showcase them. If you don't, I bet any notions store would be happy to help you find something.  Even pretty beads or crystals would work to add a little spring to this lovely design.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2012/03/new-march-pattern.html

By the way, if you want to make a beaded flower on your canvas, Mary Ruth shows just how she did one for the gingerbread house design she's creating.  A series of these beaded flowers will be the buttons on the outfit of the gingerbread boy that goes with her gingerbread house.
http://stitchinginnc.blogspot.com/2012/03/making-beaded-flower-or-button.html

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

Painted Canvas Sale

Needle and I of Rockford, Illinois has decided to discontinue its painted canvases and is selling them all at thirty-five percent off.  This is a shop I've never heard of, but it's worth browsing their stock to see if there's anything that catches your eye.  They also carry counted canvaswork designs and other things, in case you aren't a painted canvas person.
http://www.needleandi.com/store/products.php?cat=722

Many thanks to my spy who alerted me to the sale!


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

The Hunt Bathroom UPDATED FOR FOX LOVERS

Here's a lovely rug, made especially for a small guest bathroom here in Hunt Country.
http://horsecountrychic.blogspot.com/2012/03/fox-needlepoint-rug.html

UPDATE:  Goldy liked this so much I went searching for more fox canvases.  So I wrote this as a comment, then decided to post it here.


I thought it was a lovely rug, perfect for a tiny bathroom.  Critter Cove needs such a rug!

Or maybe a wall hanging or pillow?  These are classic William Morris designs by Beth Russell.
http://www.bethrussellneedlepoint.com/needlepoint/forest.htm

Maybe instead of walking on a fox rug you want to walk with foxes?
http://www.aandlhome.com/-strse-2846/fox-in-wreath-needlepoint/Detail.bok

This place sells ready made fox pillows in lots of designs.
http://www.villagehouse.net/sporting-life-needlepoint-pillows.html

Besides more traditional fox designs, NP.com has a fox game board and a foxhunt Santa!
http://www.needlepoint.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=fox

This Valentina fox in the snow piece is gorgeous.
http://store.needlenook.com/JB-Night-Fox-p23029.html

It's big, though.  How about dede's baby fox?
http://store.needlenook.com/Dede-s-Needleworks-Baby-Fox-p35068.html

This fox and hunt horn is traditional in a non-traditional way.
http://store.needlenook.com/JP-Needlepoint-Fox-In-Horn-p28998.html

If you just want a fox sign, how about this?
http://store.needlenook.com/Julia-s-Needleworks-Over-Forty-Still-Foxy-p29111.html

If all else fails, call Bob at Hunt Country Yarns.  Although Bob's shop is primarily for knitters, he stocks a great many fox/hunt/dog/horse designs and a lot of his customers do rugs. He's a great resource!
http://www.skeins.com/needle.htm



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

Taking Up the Challenge UPDATED

The Stitcherie challenge, that is! Ada shows progress on her 4th of July cat canvas that is being stitched by a group of folks at Stitcherie.  It's lots of fun to participate and even fun to sit on the sidelines and cheer the stitchers on with ideas and encouragement.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2012/03/challenge-updates-and-challenge-to-come.html

UPDATE:  The challenge is officially over, although there are several folks still working their pieces and no one has anything back from the finisher yet.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2012/06/challenge-wrap-up.html


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

Status Thimble NOT Passing into History

UPDATE (also via Facebook--thanks, Deborah):

Hooray! We were able to find a new home, so we will be able to move – not close. I can’t begin to tell you how pleased – and relieved – we are.

Our new address will be 4220 Olympic Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403. This is just off El Camino and 42nd Avenue, up from Mollie Stone’s grocery store and fronting on the same building as Always Quilting. We will be just three minutes south of the Hillsdale Shopping Center and 12 minutes south of our present location in Burlingame.

We are excited about our new location. The parking is free and the lot is immediately in front of us. We will have fresh paint, new carpeting and even heating! We hope you will come to visit us from Monday, April 16th – onwards, although I’m sure we will still be rearranging and be rather messy. We’ll also do a new schedule of classes as soon as possible.

Our store hours will stay the same: Mondays through Saturdays 10 – 5, with Thursdays open until 7:30pm. We have a very congenial stitching group on Thursday evenings from 5 to 7:30 and you are welcome to join us (no charge).

We look forward to seeing you.

Susan Bryant

Phone (650) 344-1737


Via Facebook--Status Thimble in Burlingame, CA will be closing April 5.  Because the shop is in California and I'm in rural Virginia, I never got a chance to visit, but I always loved her shop newsletters which were fascinating excursions into history and stitching.
http://www.thestatusthimble.com/

On the other hand, some landmark shops just keep hanging on.  Needle in a Haystack is 14 today and is having a sale to celebrate.
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2012/03/its-time-for-the-2012-eggcellent-anniversay-sale.html


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

A Stars Finish

Donna posted more progress photos of her beautiful version of Tony Mineiri's Stars for the New Millennium.
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2012/03/behind-scenes-with-stars.html

Then she settled down and finished the piece.  Isn't it lovely?
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2012/03/now-showing-at-bijou.html


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

Common Sense Color

Color theory and the color wheel are tools I find confusing. I'm sure I'm not the only one, but Bargello Needlepoint has done something about the confusion--explained color theory terms in an understandable way!
http://bargelloneedlepoint.com/using-colors-in-bargello-needlepoint/


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

Newsletters and Clubs

The Needle House has a new newsletter up for your reading pleasure.  This is the direct link to the PDF file.
http://www.theneedlehouse.com/jm/images/newsletters/spring_2012_web.pdf

River Silks has their newsletter ready, too, with a link to instructions for making pleated flowers and a caterpillar from their ribbons.
http://www.riversilks.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Newsletter14.pdf

If you want to see their largest 13mm silk ribbons in use on needlepoint, check out what Robin King is doing on her Sunflower piece.  She has a nice ribbon storage system going as well.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2012/03/sunflower-and-berries-nd-309-part-four.html

Needlepoint Ltd. has their Garland Clubs on one page of their website.  These are all made up of small ornaments from Kathy Schenkel, which are supposed to be strung on a line and hung together.  I've seen the Nativity stars in person and they are both cute and small.  I can see an organized stitcher getting all of them stitched in a year for seasonal decorations that are charming and fun to stitch.  Follow all the links to see the models and unstitched canvases, plus various ways of finishing them for decorations.
http://www.needlepointsltd.com/garland_club.html


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

A Glimpse Inside Marlene's and NP Inc. UPDATED

Marlene's is famous for their finishing. We are lucky that Tisha of Needlepoint Tool Time took a tour and is reporting back on her blog.
http://stitchplaywithneedlepointtooltime.blogspot.com/2012/03/marlenes-finishing-march-2012.html

If you want to see more finishing magic, Marlene's website has some stunning work.
http://www.marlenecustompillows.com/

Needlepoint Inc. was also on the tour.  Here's their interior.
http://stitchplaywithneedlepointtooltime.blogspot.com/2012/03/visit-to-needlepoint-inc.html

UPDATE:  More inside NP Inc.
http://stitchplaywithneedlepointtooltime.blogspot.com/2012/03/second-floor-of-needlepoint-inc.html

NP Inc. is a shop, a thread manufacturer and also a designer.  They do it ALL.  Here is their website so you can explore their designs and threads a bit.  NP Inc. silk is 8 ply and comes in a beautiful range of solid colors plus they also over overdyes.
http://www.needlepointinc.com/


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

Mad Miters Cyberclass Registration UPDATED

Cyberpointers is doing a bargello cyberclass this summer and registration starts April 1.
The class is taught by Liz Morrow, using her Mad Miters design.  Liz just showed off two versions of Mad Miters on her blog.  Neat!

http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2012/02/more-mad-miters.html

If you are a bargello fan, to take the class you must be a member of Cyberpointers, which is ANG's online chapter for those who don't have a local chapter or who can't make the meeting times. Here are the details.
http://www.cyberpointers.org/

UPDATE:  Liz tells me you do not need to be a member of Cyberpointers, or of ANG, to take the class. But there is a price difference. Cyberpointers member gets best price, then ANG member who isn’t member of CP, then non-members.  Just thought you'd like to know!

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

Sad News

Colleen of Needle Works in Austin reports Kelly Clark's father has died. Please keep Kelly and her family in your thoughts during this difficult time.


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

Spring Sales Are in The Air

Sales are also in the air! Orna Willis has her thread packets on sale. These are collections of threads Orna has selected to blend and coordinate.  If you want help choosing colors for a project at fifteen percent off, this is the place to browse.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2012/03/sale.html

http://www.ornadesign.com/v2/shop/threads-2/

Pocket Full of Stitches has updated their Sale page with painted canvases and charts at very good prices.  They promise to add more to this section of their website shortly, so remember to visit again in a day or two.
http://www.pfos.com/SalePages/sale1.htm

Finally, Garden Gate Needlepoint posted on their Facebook page that their Kelly Clark trunk show has arrived and there are plenty of canvases at fifty percent off!  Here's their website so you can get contact information and ask about your favorites.
http://www.gardengateneedlepoint.com/

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

The Bunny Collection

I know several people who really really love stitching rabbits. So does Stephanie, whose SWAN group has stitched quite a few Melissa Shirley stand up rabbits.  Here's Lisa's Bunny Boy.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2012/01/lisas-bunny-boy-from-melissa-shirley.html

http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2012/01/melissa-shirleys-bunny-boy-by-lisa.html


Intrigued?  You can see all four rabbits in this series (Momma, Poppa, Boy and Girl) on Melissa Shirley's website.  They are standing together at the bottom of the page.
http://melissashirleydesigns.com/gallery/?cat=106

Want to see other styles of rabbits?  It's Rabbit Season at Nimble Needle.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2012/03/rabbit-season.html

If you aren't a rabbit person but like chicks instead, Vicky's got you covered with this Needle Deeva cutie that is going to be in the March Needlepoint Now.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/02/10/a-tisket-a-tasket-a-green-yellow-basket/


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

Needlepoint Now's Phones are Out

Just in case you've been trying to reach them, a snowfall took out their power and phone lines last Wednesday and the phones are still not up and working again.  Their Internet access is spotty, too.  Let's wish them a quick return to normalcy.
http://nneditor.wordpress.com/2012/03/24/the-weather-gods-are-against-us/


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

Destination Dallas

Just when you thought you were over the excitement of the TNNA show in Phoenix last January, Destination Dallas is about to happen!
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/03/23/getting-ready-for-my-almost-soldout-class-at-dallas/

It starts the last day of March with classes, then the shopping begins April 1-2.  This is a wholesale market only, but tell your shop owners what to look for.
http://www.destinationdallas.net/exhibitors

http://www.destinationdallas.net/classes

By the way, some designers are already posting photos of new designs for Dallas.  Here's the Pajamas and Chocolate hand painted line from Patt and Lee Designs.
http://www.pajamasandchocolate.com/index.php?p=1_16_2012-Destination-Dallas-New-Designs


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

The Basketmaker

Kelly Clark makes basketweaving a dimensional piece look easy in this blog posting.  The canvas is from her Thanksgiving series that she is teaching via Needle Works in Austin and is a taste of what Kelly teaches in her Amy Bunger video on needleweaving (second link).
http://kellyclarkneedlepointhandbook.blogspot.com/2012/03/tisket-tasket-how-to-stitch-basket.html

http://www.petprojectvideo.net/DVD_7.html


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

Twisting Flat Silk

I should have subtitled this Neat Japanese Embroidery techniques!  Mary Corbet has two new videos up on her website.  One shows how to twist flat silk for Japanese Embroidery and the other shows how to frame up fabric for Japanese Embroidery.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2012/03/twisting-flat-silk-video-tutorial.html

Japanese flat silk is dyed long filament silk.  It comes on long cardboard tubes (Mary's got photos and links to more info about flat silk) and you can stitch with it as it comes off the tube.  I have done so for geisha hair and it works beautifully!  I've always wondered how flat silk is twisted for Japanese Embroidery myself.  I have books that show the technique but they lack much detail, so I am going to watch these videos over and over, both to satisfy my curiosity and perhaps master a technique to use at a later date....


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

Needle Painting on Display

Mother Nature is the only creator of flowers who comes close to these!
http://www.needlenthread.com/2012/02/some-gorgeous-needle-painting.html


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

Grand Opening TOMORROW! UPDATED

A new needlepoint shop's official grand opening is tomorrow, March 24.  The new shop is called the Enriched Stitch and is located in Wilton, Connecticut.  I hope if you live in the area you'll stop by.  Here is the contact information and directions from their new website.
http://www.enrichedstitch.com/about-us.html

I have grand hopes that another wonderful shop is opening to make us stitchers happy.

UPDATE:  Needleartnut has stopped in and is very happy with the shop.  If you have to be in Connecticut, why not seek them out?
http://needleartnut.blogspot.com/2012/05/enriched-stitch.html


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

How I Know It Is Spring

I always know when it is Spring in Chilly Hollow despite the weather. All I have to do is look at what folks are showing on their blogs.  Laura Perin has pulled out a lovely floral quilt block pattern from her archives to tempt us.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2012/03/favorite-flowers.html

Ruth Schmuff is showing off pastel snap trays and project bags on her blog.  Don't they make you think Spring?  They make wonderful gifts, both to stitching friends and to yourself as a little treat.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/03/hugs-stitches-to-you.html

Stephanie has almost finished her Petei Town Crier canvas.  It makes me think Boston which brings the Boston Marathon and Patriot Day (both celebrated on the third Monday in April) to mind.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2012/03/petei-town-crier-day-five.html

Three definite signs of spring!

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

Needlepoint Fashionista Alert

Nimble Needle's got our number--they are offering the gorgeous glass laying tools and project bags that are made from beautiful fabrics. A selection is on their blog. You can pick up a pattern that just appeals to you, coordinate your glass laying tool to the bag, or make sure you have a special set that somehow looks like that current big project you've been working on forever.  Somehow, pretty new tools make that project feel fresh and fun to me.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2012/03/new-stuff.html

Signed,
Fashionista Jane, who is clutching a new acorn magnet in my hot little hand (but I don't have any fall themed projects, time to go shopping for a canvas to match!)

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

Time to Get My Eyes Checked

Even if it wasn't time to have my eyes checked, I'd be tempted to make an appointment, just to see if they carry glasses like these.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/03/need-reading-glasses.html


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

Keep Calm and Smell My Feet

Pocket Full of Stitches is posting new photos of painted canvases they've received from Amanda Lawford and Renaissance Designs.  This is why I love needlepoint--check out the whimsy from Renaissance and the classic patterns from Amanda Lawford.  There really is something for every taste when it comes to needlepoint design.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/03/new-amanda-lawford-and-renaissance.html

If painted designs don't float your boat, check out the new counted pieces that Scarlet Thread has in their shop.  I don't know how Sara Leigh does it, but her photographs of charted models are always better than anyone else's!
http://stitchything.blogspot.com/2012/03/look-whats-coming-and-whats-here-now.html

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

Retro Bargello

Personally, bargello patterns do not ring my chimes but for some folks, they are the most fun thing one can stitch. Thanks to Donna and her daughter, I have a link to someone who not only loves bargello, she loves using it in retro furnishings.   Now I won't go that far, but that elephant sure is charming....
http://retrorenovation.com/2012/03/06/erica-wilson-and-margaret-boyles-teach-bargello-needlepoint-pillows-to-bobbie/

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

Out to Get Her

Ann had one of those days when her threads were out to get her.
http://stitchingfoolishness.blogspot.com/2012/03/evil-thread-conspiracy.html

Hey, at least the laundry didn't have it in for her!


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

Monthly Clubs Update

Needle House has updated their monthly clubs page with new models for their Fabrege Eggs club. These beauties are from A Collection of Designs.
http://www.theneedlehouse.com/jm/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=106&Itemid=102

Also from A Collection of Designs is this Halloween tree, complete with spooked snowman tree topper and plenty of spooky ornaments.  This club is being offered by The French Knot.
http://www.thefrenchknot.com/z-halloween.htm

Chandail is adding a witch hat series from Kelly Clark to their clubs.
http://www.chandailneedlework.com/series/WitchHatsSeries.php

Ada si showing off the Seasonal Owls series that Eye Candy is doing for a lot of shops.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2012/03/winters-snowy-owl-from-hoot-owl-series.html

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

Classes and Teachers and Fun

Both Bedecked and Beaddazzled and Needle Works are showing off class pieces on their blogs. Anne-Marie Winter is going to teach her lovely bamboo leaf and water "Oriental Reflections" kimono for Ruth Schmuff's shop...
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/03/oriental-reflections.html

....while Cassie Prescott of Sundance is going to teach the Mexican sampler Oaxaca at Needle Works. (Love that grasshopper!) If you are going to be in the Austin area when the Cassie is teaching, I hope you can take her class.  Anne-Marie's class is a cyberclass, which means you can take it sitting in your stitching chair at home.
http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2012/03/oaxaca-from-sundance-designs.html

Either way, these are great opportunities to study with wonderful stitchers.  Remember, I expect a full report!


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

The Ornament Collection

The owner of Chapel Hill Needlepoint stitches a series of Christmas ornaments for her son each year. She's posted them on her blog and they make a wonderful display or what he's interested in during various years.
http://chapelhillneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2012/03/carsons-ornament-round-up.html


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

Atlantis Rising Spectacular

Liz Morrow has been pilot stitching one of the ANG Seminar pieces for 2012--Ro Pace's Atlantis Rising. It is an amazing mix of bargello and the "string art" style of stitching that Jean Hilton created.  Do click on the small photo for a better look.

http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2012/03/atlantis-rising-finished.html

The classes ANG will offer for this fall's Seminar can be browsed here.  Atlantis Rising is one of the four day classes if you want more details on this amazing design and compare Ro's original to the changes Liz made in hers.
http://www.needlepoint.org/Seminar-12/classes.php


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

Blue Bonnet Studio Retreat February 2013

It's never too early to plan a stitching vacation. Blue Bonnet Studio has opened registration for their February 2013 retreat at Lost Pines, Texas.  The details are here-
http://www.bluebonnetstudio.com/bbs-time-2013

The classes are listed here.  There is everything from various types of surface embroidery to needlepoint and Japanese Embroidery.  The projects are gorgeous and I think a good time guaranteed for all.
http://www.bluebonnetstudio.com/bbs-time/classes


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

Want Whipped Cream on That Canvas?

Karen showed off some cute cupcake canvases on the Nimble Needle blog this morning, as well as a wonderful way of stitching whipped cream.  Suddenly I'm hungry!
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2012/03/cupcakes.html


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

Frames and Accessories

Occasionally I see a new frame or frame accessory that looks very intriguing. Images Stitchery has a new lap table to use with a lap frame that might work nicely as a lap desk, too.
http://imagesstitcherydesign.com/catalog/accessories/#ecwid:category=996829&mode=product&product=4759053

A friend just picked up a Mark 2 floor stand and she loves it!  These are made by Hearthside.  She uses scroll frames, so this is perfect for her.  It doesn't look to me that my stretcher bars would work with this brand but then I discovered the Stitcher's Cabinet. I now want one of those, please!
http://www.hearthsidecraftworks.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4&Itemid=4

http://www.hearthsidecraftworks.com/index.phpoption=com_content&view=article&id=8&Itemid=23


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

A Sad Week in Chilly Hollow

It's a sad week in Chilly Hollow. I heard last night that Ro Pace's husband has died. She's a lovely lady who teaches wonderful geometric patterns. If you know Ro, you might want to send her a quiet note of condolence for her loss.
http://designsbyro.blogspot.com/2012/03/my-dear-sweet-husband.html

http://www.designsbyro.com/needlepoint_designs_by_ro/Welcome_2.html

It's also a sad time in Chilly Hollow for another reason--the local pharmacy closed this week.  It was bought out by one of the major drug store chains as the pharmacists were just too worried about the changes coming from ObamaCare to continue their six day a week job serving our little county. They are retiring.  They made sure their employees have jobs at the major chain, which is one of the reasons I am sorry to see them go--they are decent folks.  Now I have to drive 20 miles one way to fill a prescription and am dealing with a chain, not the small business that made sure I could fill prescriptions early because of a vacation, that checked to see that I understood all the possible side effects of my husband's drugs, that always got us the brand of generic drug that my husband prefers, that employed local teens to take orders and make change, and that had a smile and a kind word for everyone.  Things change, but ObamaCare--despite all its worthy goals--has been a disaster for us personally, with my husband's good health insurance plan pulling out of our state due to ObamaCare leaving us with only one plan available which isn't as good as the old one was, my insurance costs going up $57 a month due to ObamaCare this year (I shudder to think about next year) and now with us losing our pharmacy.  I don't know anyone personally that it has helped, only folks it has hurt, but you may be different.  I hope so given the price tag of this government boondoggle!  This is nothing compared to losing a spouse like Ro has but it is a constant problem for us and one I'll be addressing at the ballot box come November.

I rarely talk politics here since this is a needlepoint blog where personal things have no place, but no matter how you feel about ObamaCare, this upcoming election is a very important one.  If you are a citizen of the United States, make sure you vote your convictions.  This is a turning point for our country.

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

Needlepoint Classes Inspire Stitch Envy

Nothing turns me greener for St. Patrick's Day than hearing all about the wonderful needlepoint classes folks have taken.  Melita just took a SharonG class and is exploring Sharon's use of open stitches and gorgeous borders on a wonderful Katie Molineaux/Shorebird Designs dragonfly.
http://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2012/03/17/dragon-fly/

Melody's been to a Brenda Hart class where she took a pair of Dan Di Paolo witches (reproduced by Kelly Clark).  What can I say?  Wish I was there, too!
http://wooley-thoughts.blogspot.com/2012/03/how-stitchers-celebrate-st-pats.html

If like me you are unable to make it to a needlepoint class, you can always study long distance using things like Tony Minieri's new three DVD set about stitching basics.  Melinda is doing a Amy Bunger Home Study piece while listening to the new DVDs.
http://melindaslivingthegoodlife.blogspot.com/2012/03/lessons-learned.html

Your local shop can get the DVDs for you but if --again like me-- you don't have a shop close by you can mail order.  Nimble Needle has a nice price for the set and will sell you just one if you don't want to invest in all of them until you've tried them out.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2012/03/back-to-basics-dvd-set.html

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

Instead Of Tinting Your Windshield...

...tint your needlepoint! 

I can see the question marks floating about your heads, Blog readers.  Fortunately, Barbara Elmore is much more articulate on this topic than I am.  She's written a little essay on how to do this and illustrated it with her own work and a piece that Melissa Shirley stitched.  Make sure you read the comments section for more clarification.
http://stitchpography.blogspot.com/2012/03/tint-your-stitch.html

Thanks very much for pointing out embellished needlepoint isn't just beads and fancy stitches, Barbara!

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

Need to Get Away?

Do you need a getaway? Some peace and quiet and stitching time? Most vacations are stressful, at least the packing is.  But The Needlepointer does retreats three times a year. You can be gone from Thursday (or Friday, the start of your fun is optional) until Sunday along the marina in Everett, Washington.  There are no classes, no deadlines, nothing but siting around with other needlepointers, stitching and talking and just relaxing.  Doesn't that sound great?  The retreats are in February, May and October, so start planning your getaway (especially which project you will take) for the spring one now.
http://www.theneedlepointer.com/stitching_retreats.php


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

Borders and Squares Class

The next cyberclass from Needlenook of La Jolla is up on their newly redesigned website.
It is called Borders and Squares.
http://www.needlenook.com/needle-nook-university/


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

Elizabethan Stitches: A Book Review

Anyone who has a lot of stitch dictionaries on their bookshelves and thinks they have seen it all will be interested in reading a review of a new book called "Elizabethan Stitches:  A Guide to Historic English Needlework" that Jacqui Carey has just published.  It is full of surface embroidery stitches we needlepointers have never seen, done in threads that are no longer available.  In the last five years, Elizabethan embroidery has become clearer than ever to its stitching descendants 400 years away in time.  It looks like this book is going to advance that knowledge greatly.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2012/03/elizabethan-stitches-jacqui-carey.html

If you are curious about stitches, if history is your delight, or if you want to do reproduction stitching in the 17th Century manner, then this book is for you.  It has to be ordered from this English site,
http://www.careycompany.com/

or from this Canadian shop which I have ordered from occasionally and can vouch for.
http://www.traditionalstitches.com/p_Carey.html

I also found it available via pre-order here.
http://www.bookdepository.com/Elizabethan-Stitches-Jacqui-Carey/9780952322580

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

Custom Bargello Designs

Janet Perry has announced a custom bargello service on her website. Janet loves bargello and will create a custom design just for you.  Here are the details.
http://www.nuts-about-needlepoint.com/love-bargello-get-a-custom-design


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

Interview with Sarah Homfray

Mary Corbet has posted a wonderful interview with Sarah Homfray on her website.  The best part is the link to Sarah's website where you can see what this graduate of the Royal School has been up to--writing a book, teaching and embroidering a wedding gown.
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2012/03/01/inspirational-interview-sarah-homfray/

Don't miss the Embroidery Gallery on Sarah's blog.  This link is at the bottom of her home page.
http://www.sarahhomfray.com/

Then there's the link to The Wedding Dress.
http://www.sarahhomfray.com/blog/read_26607/The-RSN-and-the-Royal-wedding-dress.html


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

Class Giveaway UPDATED

Orna Willis is giving away a slot in her newest class, "Hanging Gardens."  How to enter is spelled out on her blog.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2012/03/giving-it-away.html

UPDATE:  Orna has decided to give away TWO slots in her class.  Details here if you happen to be late to the party.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2012/03/overwhelmed-so-another-giveaway.html

Speaking of Orna's classes, I know some of the folks getting ready to take her Peacocks class at Bedecked and Beadazzled in Baltimore.  They keep talking about "orange peacocks"!
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/visitingTeachers.php


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

Bargello Green

Since March 17th is St. Patrick's Day, the Bargello Needlepoint site has assembled five free bargello designs in shades of green and gold for the Irish at heart. Enjoy!

http://bargelloneedlepoint.com/5-free-bargello-designs-for-st-patricks-day/


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

The Embroidered Cat

Trish Burr just posted a photo on her blog of a large piece she did over the last year for her own pleasure. It's a masterpiece of needle painting.  She did it as a personal challenge to stretch her skills.  For me it's a reminder of how we all, no matter how talented, need to polish what we stitch by doing things a bit out of our comfort zone.
http://trishburr.com/2012/03/03/embroidery-challenge/

By the way, BeStitched is having a Patt and Lee trunk show (twenty percent off).  If you are a cat person, you can pick up some great cat canvases at a discount.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/pat-and-lee-needlepoint-trunk-show-20-off/


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

Gathering for Winter

Why am I talking about gathering for winter when it is 65 outside and spring? Because "Gathering for Winter" is a new class from Betsy Morgan. Betsy lives over the mountain from me. She designs the most exquisite smalls and etuis!  I keep up with her blog because I love seeing her designs.  I hope you enjoy this, too.
http://willinghandsstitching.blogspot.com/2012/02/gathering-for-winter-etui.html


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

This Much Fun Should Be Illegal

The Needle Bug goes on retreat!  (in pictures)
http://theneedlebug.com/2012/03/day-one-at-farmlinks-retreat/


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

The Tisha Channel

Speaking of Needlepoint Tool Time, Tisha has filmed a YouTube video that shows off some of her most interesting tools. Ever looked at an expensive lamp or floor frame and wondered just how it worked? Needlepoint Tool Time has had the brilliant idea of filming these things in use to help folks decide if the product will work for them.  Some of these gadgets in the video I've never seen before, but then Tisha is almost as big a Gadget Queen as my friend Ro.  This is a great idea!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubXxezGhHg0


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

More Slimline

Not too long ago Linda got a Slimline lamp to attach to her floor stand. She really liked it and Tisha noticed.  She has friends who raved about it so she ordered one to see if it is something she wanted to stock at Needlepoint Tool Time. She's hooked!
http://stitchplaywithneedlepointtooltime.blogspot.com/2012/02/slimline-table-lamp.html

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

Needlepoint Now's New Website UPDATED

Needlepoint Now magazine has updated their website. The new address is the same as the old but everything else has a new look.
http://www.needlepointnow.com/

By the way, Vicky DeAngelis has a bit more information about the new site and a glimpse of the March/April 2012 issue which is just now being mailed to subscribers.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/03/14/another-look-at-needlepoint-now/

UPDATE:  Here's a bit about Pepita Needlepoint's pieces in the next issue (March-April 2012).
http://needlepointofview.com/2012/03/16/pepita-needlepoint-featured-in-needlepoint-now-magazine/


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

Coping with Eye Problems

I was thrilled to see a new tool for stitchers who have serious eye problems on the Needlepoint Tool Time blog.  With the aid of technology, we can overcome a lot of serious physical issues.  I hope none of us ever need something like this, but at least it is available if we do.
http://stitchplaywithneedlepointtooltime.blogspot.com/2012/03/one-solution-for-vision-impaired.html

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

BBB

BBB stands for Beaded Beanie Baby. And why am I talking about BBB? Check this out!
http://www.needlenthread.com/2012/03/bead-embroidered-sculptures.html

Many thanks to Mary Corbet for introducing us to beaded embroidered sculptures!


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

How To Draw a Witch's Hat

Anyone who wants to do ANG's Stitch of the Month as a Halloween project, will want to read Sheena's tutorial on how to trace her witch hat design onto needlepoint canvas. She also lists the threads she will use for the first two month's stitches here.
http://sheenassweetstitches.com/transferring-to-canvas-fun-accoutrements/2012/01/sample-post/


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

More Club News

I have more club news for you--Wellesley Needlepoint has a new Kathy Schenkel Victorian Carolers set available exclusively from their shop.  While not strictly a club, each canvas comes with a stitch guide so you can work from your stash of threads or ask the shop to sent threads with your canvases.  They also have a very nice Thanksgiving Pilgrim set, also from Kathy's line.
http://wellesleyneedlepoint.com/WhatsHot.shtml

Speaking of Victorian, Nashville Needleworks is offering four of Melissa Shirley's Victorian Children as a club.  You can see the models on their website, as well as last year's club of Melissa Shirley Easter eggs.
http://www.nashvilleneedleworks.com/home.html

Little Shoppe has added two new dimensional sets to their clubs--kisses and witch hats!  This link will take you to their club page where you can see all their designs on offer, just in case neither chocolate or Halloween are your thing.  As always, click on the thumbnail photo to go to information about that club's offerings.
http://www.littleshoppeofstitches.com/clubs.html

Ada is posting photos of her owl club which several shops are picking up.  Here's the Fall Harvest Owl.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2012/03/hoot-hoot-its-falls-harvest-owl.html

Would you like to do a club but you really don't have much stitching time?  Then the tiny Christmas club run by Old Town Needlework is the one for you.
http://www.oldtownneedlework.com/christmas-club.htm

Kelly Clark has done a nice summary of her clubs this year.  Two are shop exclusives and one lots of shops will offer.
http://kellyclarkneedlepointhandbook.blogspot.com/2012/03/upcoming-kelly-clubs.html

The final club is extra special--The Heart Club.  This is also from Old Town Needlework. They've taken a heart themed canvas from various designers, stitched them up to be extra fun to work, and best of all, proceeds go to the American Heart Association.  This very special club is described on their website.
http://www.oldtownneedlework.com/heart-club.htm


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

A Sparkles Tutorial

We saw a bit about the new mesh tube called Sparkles at the TNNA trade show in January. Sundance has posted a bit more about how to use it with a link to the wonderful ways Barbara Elmore has manipulated it to great effect.
http://sundanceinstitches.blogspot.com/2012/02/sundance-sparkles.html


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

DMC Color Conversions

DMC's blog has just announed a new color tool--a conversion chart of all their lines of threads to each other. Now if you want a DMC tapestry wool as close to DMC cotton floss #274 as possible, you can check the site and find the best match.
http://dmc-threads.com/dmc-shoppers-checklist/


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

Brenda Hart is a Genius UPDATED

Want to see one of Brenda Hart's cleverest tricks? She uses light coverage stitches to great effect on this very detailed piece.  Many thanks to Ruth for showing this off.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/02/too-much-detail.html

UPDATE:  Bristly Thistle emailed me Brenda is teaching in their shop this week.  The shop promises a report and photos for those not close by next week but if you are anywhere near Amelia Island, Florida, go visit.
http://www.bristlythistle.com/


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

Robin and the Sunflowers

There is a new posting on the CH Stitch Guides blog this morning. Click on the magic carpet photo on the right to fly there, then click on the same image at that blog to return here.


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

Bargello Fiends

Yes, I'm talking about you. I know you adore bargello patterns. I also know you are one big chicken when it comes to trying something new. How about heading over to Bargello Needlepoint.com to watch a brand new project being designed from the bare canvas up?  Just look for Bargello Needlepoint Diary Day One, then read on to watch the mystery project grow and develop.  It'll give you inspiration to try your own project, even if you don't have the time to do it yourself right now.
http://bargelloneedlepoint.com/


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

I Think Karen's Mastered Embellishment

If you want to see a master at needlepoint embellishment, head over to The Needle Bug to view the Cowboy Santa stocking (Melissa Shirley?) and the Maggie Cat with Stuffed Cat piece that Karen is working on.  There are lots of ideas here, like outlining buttons, padding, the use of tiny ribbon roses, etc.  Many thanks to the Bug for taking the photos for us to study and enjoy!
http://theneedlebug.com/2012/02/not-too-long-ago/


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

Orna's Design Adventure

Orna's Silky Safari

Orna Willis says she gets lots of questions about how she creates her colorful geometric designs, so she has decided to start explaining. Here's Part One.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2012/03/how-my-mind-works-on-design-if-you-dare.html

By the way, she has posted a new tartan-inspired design on her blog.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2012/02/contemporary-tartan-and-special-gift.html

If you have not visited Orna's website recently, it's time.  She has been busy adding new designs, stitching old favorites in new colors, and adding past seminar classes (like Silky Safari in the photo above) to her available designs and kits.  In person her things are gorgeous.  The vibrant colors in the photographs do not convey the liveliness, movement and dimension her designs have in person.
http://www.ornadesign.com/v2/shop/


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

April Showers Bring Classes

Needle Works' latest newsletter is full of classes for spring, plus they are taking orders for the newest Amy Bunger DVD, a set of three disks covering Tony Minieri's Back to Basics classes.
http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=4634a11f4dc645137a4ed2a39&id=09e051a1ec&e=b510e3937f

Their newest class is a Kimberly one.  If you aren't familiar with Kimberly's pieces, you should visit her blog and browse the charts that are available occasionally.
http://akimberlydesign.blogspot.com/

http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/products.php?catid=13&firstcid=1


http://www.homesteadneedlearts.com/results.cfm?SubCategory=110

http://www.needledelights.com/index.php/pages/Patterns%20Closeout%20-%20Charted%20Needlept.html


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

Two Birds in Beads (Day of the Dead)

Pocito Dove Underway

I've not mentioned Belleza, my Day of the Dead lady from Manual Salas/Tapestry Fair much this last week because I have been so busy with Real Life chores, I've not accomplished much. However, I did manage to bead both my birds.  Janet is working Pocito and also choose to bead her birds (Sheena's not at this point yet as she is working on her Pocito's face).  I thought you might like to see how differently my birds and Janet's turned out, even though they are painted in an almost identical manner.  The two Day of the Dead ladies are pictured on the left side of Blog for your reference.

Pocito's Right Dove Finished

Pocito (green background) has white doves outlined in silver.  Janet beaded them with three colors of round beads: orange beads on the beak, white pearl and silver beads on the rest of the bird.  Janet's orange and white pearl beads are size 14 from Sundance while the silver beads are size 15 from The Shepherdess Bead Store in San Diego.  She wanted all round beads but could not find silver beads in size 14 so she used the slightly smaller size 15 ones.  Janet pointed out that her beak is painted yellow and orange but she decided her canvas is already so colorful that using two colors in the tiny beak would be distracting. So her beak is solid orange.

Belleza's Glittering Crow with Yellow Eye

Belleza (purple background) has black crows outlined in silver.  I also used size 14 beads from Sundance but I used hex beads in four colors:  black, silver lined crystals, orange and peach-yellow.  My beak has both yellow and orange shades which is how it was painted.  I also put a yellow-peach bead in one bird's eye and used an orange bead for the other crow's eye.  Janet used a black stitch for her dove eye.

Belleza's Orange Eyed Crow

My birds are much harder edged than Janet's romantic little doves.  I don't think it is just the colors than make my birds crows--I think it is also the glitter that hex beads give.  Janet used round beads that are softer and that have a pearl "glow" instead of the glint that hex beads give when they reflect light.  The moral of all this is that your choice of bead type and size are as important as the color.  We both used beads of the same type (round or hex) and in the same size as much as possible.

Hope this gives you some ideas the next time you want to put beads on a needlepoint canvas.  If you want to add romance and softness, look for round beads.  If you need more glitter and shine, hex beads are the way to go.

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

The Dot Box UPDATED

UPDATE:  I've been writing Blog articles two weeks ahead of time and the newsletter article and the Dot Box photos was deleted earlier this week.  Fortunately, Mary Ruth was on the ball and dug out info for us.   First, here is a photo of one of the smaller Dot Box sets.  Make sure you click on the smaller thumbnail photos for more pictures.
http://www.cottagemills.com/default/dotboxsmallset.html


And here is a closeup of one of the smaller boxes that goes into the larger container.
http://www.cottagemills.com/default/dotboxlargelongbox.html


MANY thanks, MR!


I just stumbled upon the Dot Box, a craft storage system that might interest folks who want to keep their beads and other odd items in one place. You can see it at Absolutely Needlepoint by going to this link, then clicking on Get the Point to go to their news page.
http://www.absolutelyneedlepoint.com/

There is a big box that holds all the little boxes but the big boxes come in various sizes to hold various numbers of smaller containers, depending on just how much you want to organize.  I don't see these as good for threads storage but if you are addicted to beads and sequins and buttons, you might want to look for these at your local crafts emporium.


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

A Trip to France

Kathy of the Unbroken Thread will be our guide.  So set aside a little time to take a tour....
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2012/02/28/maison-sajou/


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

To Nashville and Back Again

There are trade shows that needlepoint companies don't usually attend. The one that just ended in Nashville is mostly cross stitch, but some counted canvaswork designers do go. Needle Delights is just back with photos of the new designs and the displays which are great fun to see.
http://needledelightsoriginals.blogspot.com/2012/03/back-from-market.html

If you want to see more of Kathy's work, here is her website.  She used to operate a shop as well as the design business which she has now closed so she can devote all her energies to designing.  There are bargains to be had in the remaining shop stock, so take a browse and see what counted goodies are still available.
http://needledelights.com/


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

Update to the the CH Stitch Guides Blog

The Chilly Hollow Stitch Guides blog was updated this morning. Ride the Magic Carpet to see the new article. By the way, Melissa Shirley has updated her What's New gallery with all new stitch guides at the top.  Here's the direct link there.
http://melissashirleydesigns.com/gallery/?bsn=1


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

A New Needlepoint Floor Frame

You may think you've seen it all when it comes to floor stands, but Karen Granger has something a little different.
http://janetgranger.wordpress.com/2012/02/23/new-miniature-needlework-stand-kits-for-the-embroiderer-in-your-dolls-house/

Make sure you check out her website for more kits.
http://www.janetgranger.co.uk/acatalog/Needlework_Stand_kits_for_your_dollshouse.html


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