Learning

Today's stitching topic is learning since I have lots of links for you that are all about learning needlework techniques.  Sukylady shares how to applique a small needlepoint shape to the front of a tote bag.  She makes it look easy!
http://sukylady.blogspot.com/2012/05/attaching-needlepoint-to-bag.html

If you have kids that are about to be home out of school all summer, you may want to watch this long video from DMC about teaching kids to stitch over doodle drawings using backstitch and then a whipped backstitch with French knots as an accent.  In this instance they are making button covers but this technique will work on t-shirts, tote bags, a jacket, anything that can be drawn on and then easily stitched over.  Note that the water erasable quilting markers are unpredictable.  Heat can set the marks, so don't use hot water to erase, or leave these items in a car on a sunny day.
http://yarntree.typepad.com/needlework_news/2012/05/teach-kids-to-stitch-their-doodles.html

Be careful when teaching kids to stitch.  Here's a cautionary tale from Hazel.
http://therebelliousneedlewoman.blogspot.com/2012/05/embroidery-no-longer-taught-in-schools.html

Orna Willis has announced four classes for her Adorn Classroom.  These are repeats of her most popular classes and allow you to participate either with or without a kit.  Those who want to replicate Orna's models exactly or who don't have easy access to supplies can get a kit.  Those who have stashes they want to raid or who love customizing a project with their own favorite colors can just sign up as a student without buying a kit.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2012/05/four-new-adorn-classrooms.html

UPDATE:  Here's a bit more about how Orna's classes work.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2012/05/in-depth.html

Tricia Nguyen has also announced a new class that will be taught for EGA.  Tricia is an expert on 17th Century embroidery and her newest class will be on Embroidered Mirrors.  If this period of history fascinates you or you just want to learn more about our stitching ancestors, follow the links to the EGA site to sign yourself up.
http://thistle-threads.com.mytempweb.com/blog/index.php/2012/05/17th-century-embroidered-mirror-class-october-2012/

http://thistle-threads.com.mytempweb.com/blog/index.php/2012/05/stumpwork-mirror-frame-ega-course/

I think that's about enough learning for today for us students of needlepoint!

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