Last Day for Xmas in July

Today is the last day of PFOS' Christmas in July sale and I think they saved the best photos until last--a bevvy of Santas, all of whom need good homes. There's the unusual (Patti Mann's high kicking line of Santas) to the classic (Melissa Shirley's round portrait of Santa standing in front of a pine tree).  There are many more Santas, one for each personal style.  If you are in the market, don't delay.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/07/last-day-christmas-in-july.html

In stock and special order Christmas items are on sale at twenty percent off, today only.


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

Mark Your Calendar For Woodlawn

Maggie B. just posted a note to the ANG email list that the Woodlawn exhibit will move back to March in 2013.  Apparently the renovation of the building that the exhibit helps support is still going on, so there was some question about whether the exhibit would have to be moved to accommodate workmen.  Looks like it is a Go for March.  Mark your calendars!


Maggie B.  also says the dates for items to be submitted will be in February, 2013 and that further details will be posted to the Woodlawn website.
http://woodlawn1805.org/

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

Take One Carole, Add One Michael...

...and you get a free pattern (plus an interview).  I have the pleasure of knowing both these designers and teachers and I must say, Carole's one of the funniest people I know. Toss in Michael and their classes must be the most legal fun you can have!
http://www.caron-net.com/12mardesigner.html

The link to their free design, "Bali Ha'i" is at the top of the article but I've repeated it here, just so you don't miss the fun.
http://www.caron-net.com/12mardesclass1.html

A second free design is on their StitchPlay website.   Have fun!  Carole and Michael expect you to enjoy every stitching minute, just like they do.
http://www.stitchplay.com/free.html


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

Fish Needle Cases, Thimbles, Bodkins, Button Sticks and More

I ran across mention of this site that sells reproduction clothing patterns and became enchanted in their "Needlework Tools" section.  There are all sorts of amazing things there, all based on period examples.  The link will take you to the home page and no further, so look on the left to click on the tool section to explore.
http://wmboothdraper.com/


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

Lani Enterprises Website

Lani Silver has a website, full of lovely images to enjoy.
http://www.lanienterprises.com/indexa.html

I don't think the above site is new but it is fun to visit.  The website I'm familiar with is her combined shop and design one at this link--
http://www.lanisneedlepoint.com/


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

Bubbles, Trouble and New Things

I just happened to take another look at Jelly Bean Stock's website and discovered a before and after series of photos on the home page of a witch and cauldron canvas going from plain unstitched to finished ornament topped with a wonderful lime green bow.  It shows how inspired stitching and finishing can really add to a plain painted canvas.
http://www.jellybeanstock.com/

From the home page you can click on What's New to see the latest fun.  I really like the vases full of flowers but there are all sorts of things to appeal to a variety of tastes.

I'm going to squeeze in another New Thing--the latest Santa from Just Libby.  This one is on sale until tomorrow so move fast.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/07/new-libby-sturdy.html


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

The Adventures of Bridget

Please join me in enjoying the adventures of Bridget!
http://hyacinthforthesoul.blogspot.com/2010/11/brigitte-comes-to-life.html


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

Review: the BoaMag Portable Light/Magnifier

Summer time is the time for travel and a time when folks might be especially interested in portable light/magnifier gadgets, so I was particularly pleased to stumble upon Ruth's review of the BoaMag.
http://ruthsneedlework.blogspot.com/2011/11/boamag-review.html

This link shows the product better and lists the specs if you want to look further into this.  It's on Amazon for a little over $25 plus free shipping if you are ok with a slower arrival, but you might find it at a better price elsewhere.
http://www.telesightmagnifiers.com/catalog/i756.html


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

The Needlepointer's Class Schedule

This morning I found an announcement of the July-October classes at The Needlepointer. It's a full and fun schedule, starting with today!  It looks like at least some of the classes are going to be available via mail order for those who can't be there in person, which is a good thing for us long distance learners.
http://www.theneedlepointer.com/classes.php

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

I'm Starting to Get It

I am starting to see why friends of mine are addicted to certain canvas series. How about these Painted Pony angels? There's something for every taste, interest or location.  By the way, PFOS has all their Christmas items on sale at twenty percent off until the end of July, so if you are a Painted Pony angel collector, it's time to act.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/07/painted-pony-angels.html


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

The Big Stocking Adventure UPDATED LOTS

I don't know about you, but I've never stitched one of those big Christmas stockings. I've done little ones, the mini size, but never a bigger one.  I am unwilling to spend all that money for the canvas, threads and finishing.   That doesn't mean I'm not envious of Katherine's adventure as she stitches a Susan Roberts' Queen stocking to match theKing she stitched for her husband.  Here's the adventure so far~
http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/07/christmas-comes-early.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/07/happy-monday-i-mean-thursday.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/07/moving-right-along.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/07/this-little-piggy.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/07/chugging-along.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/07/another-finish.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/07/texas-bound-tomorrow.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/07/a-date-with-queen.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/08/im-going-to-poke-my-eye-out-with-my.html?showComment=1344611738804#c3547738628373562241

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/08/lunch-lady-land.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/08/sneak-peek.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/08/rainy-days-and-mondays.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/09/eureka.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/09/progress-continues.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/09/now-i-can-move-on-to-fun-stuff.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/09/starting-on-background.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/09/zipping-through-it.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-sprint-turned-into-slow-jog.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/10/stitching-blues-away.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/10/moving-right-along.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/10/death-by-basketweave.html

http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/10/a-huge-finish.html

I can't wait to see how the Queen comes to life.  Stitch faster....

By the way, if you are curious about Susan Roberts' designs, here is her website.
http://www.susanrobertsneedlepoint.com/

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

Needlepoint Frames

Carolyn Hedge Baird takes us on a tour of needlepoint picture frames in her latest Living with Needlepoint posting.
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2012/07/08/picture-frame-perfect/

Just in case you don't like stitched frames, Ruth Schmuff has found a line of pre-made frames that might be more to your taste.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/07/just-in-time-for-summer.html


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

Christmas (and Halloween) in July

It's Christmas in July over at Stephanie's blog, where she showed off some dynamite finishing by Kim Hollifield.  I loved beaded edges on ornaments but I never would have thought of something so clever as this.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2012/07/fantastic-finishing.html

Unique New Zealand Goes Halloween

Peacock Alley is partnering with Unique New Zealand for a whole series of Keep Calm canvases.  My favorite this week is shown above but they come with many sayings. If you have a Facebook account, look for "Peacock Alley Needlepoint" and then search their Wall Photos picture album.  Your own shop might order a custom for you from Unique New Zealand or you might want to see what Peacock Alley has in stock.
http://www.peacockalleyneedlepoint.com/peacockalleyneedlepoint/Home.html

P.S.  Keep Calm fans may enjoy playing with this.
http://www.keepcalm-o-matic.co.uk/#create


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

Tennessee Sampler Survey

I am not really a sampler person but I know many folks who absolutely love these hand made time machines.  I've run across mention of the Tennessee Sampler Survey twice in the last few months so I'm posting the link here for Tennessee history buffs and anyone else who'd like to see Southern samplers.  Even I was thrilled to see samplers from the county I grew up in or have family associations with.
http://www.tennesseesamplers.com/index.php


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

Friends of Blog UPDATED

I just finished updating the article about Wonder Ribbon from yesterday with more shop sources and information about the ribbon and its history and uses. Do go back in time and look at the article  (especially the comments) if you are interested in this stretchy ribbon and its uses.  I am much indebted to Friends of Blog for the additional information.  Don't you just love the "Friends of Blog" phrase? It reminds me of the "Friends of Bill" Clinton in politics or the "Friends of Bill" reference to the founder of Alcoholics Anonymous and members of that wonderful organization.  Semi-literary illusions raise  the tone here in Needlepoint Land, don't they?

Seriously, I am greatly indebted to the fine people who read Blog and sent me tips, corrections, advice and information.  The Internet has not only brought us needlepointers together, it has shown how many shops, designers, tool and thread makers and more there are.  It's just not possible for one person to master it all, so I count on my fellow stitchers to help out.  They always answer the call.

In other news, Blogger seems to have gotten over whatever was making post saves and publication difficult.  It is nice to not have to wrestle posts to get them to you.  Now I can relax and start wrestling with all the updates associated with a new operating system for Macs.  I spent a lot of yesterday downloading upgrades and adjusting to the changes in Safari -- and I haven't even upgraded to Mountain Lion yet!  Fortunately, Apple makes it as easy as possible but that doesn't mean I like change or having to do all this.  Today's chores will be backups and checking to see if I can actually upgrade all the Macs here in Chilly Hollow.  After that, I'll wait a few days to make sure Mountain Lion doesn't wreck havoc with machines and then I'll download the new operating system.  Wish me luck!

You might have noticed that I've gone silent again about my stitching. Belleza is temporarily on hiatus while I stitch a secret project for the Baltimore trade show.  I'm far from the only source of information about how to stitch painted canvases these days, though.  I doubt you'll miss my blog-stitching much.  You are going to be too busy exploring Quail Run's updated website!
http://www.quailrun-inc.com

UPDATE:  Althea has a nice review of the Quail Run shop here.
http://bargelloneedlepoint.com/shop-of-the-week-quail-run-needleworks/

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

More Sales Canvases and a New Needle Delights Design

Kathy of Needle Delights has published a sneak peak of her latest design on her website.
http://needledelightsoriginals.blogspot.com/2012/07/progress.html

Kathy closed her needlework shop to concentrate on designing last winter.  This means there are some real bargains on her website, from painted canvases you'll see at this link...
http://www.needledelights.com/index.php/pages/Painted%20Needlepoint%20Canvases.html

....to charts and models and pre-worked canvases that you can find links to in the right hand column of her website at the second link above.  Have fun shopping!


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

How Do You Like Your Souffle?

Michele has it diagrammed to slant left OR right!  This is another side of the Halloween box that Michele is stitching for her shop.  Expect another great Bristly Thistle stitch guide from her shortly.
http://bristlythistle.blogspot.com/2012/07/happy-witch.html


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

A Box of Halloween

Michele's getting ready for Halloween with Dracula.
http://bristlythistle.blogspot.com/2012/07/count-dracula-by-julie-mar.html

You can see the finished box on the Julie Mar Designs website.  The second link shows the entire set of Halloween creatures.
https://juliemardesigns.hostasaurus.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Session_ID=7ab539cbeeba4098e18246e8b49c8936&Screen=PROD&Product_Code=809


http://www.juliemardesigns.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?


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

The Wonders of Wonder Ribbon UPDATE NO. 6

Pat asked if I had any sources for Wonder Ribbon, which I had heard is supplied by The Collection (they do those lovely beads and sequins). However, Wonder Ribbon is not on their website, so I went looking.  Armed with coffee and my best friend Google, I found a source.  You'll have to click on Next to see more colors.
http://www.annieandco.com/collections/types?page=3&q=Embellishment


I also found this brief video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrAVcUeZJx0

However, I need help from Friends of Blog.  Do you know of other shops that have it in stock?  Are you a shop owner and carry Wonder Ribbon?  Please post a comment below or email me at chilly hollow athotmaildotcom.  Thanks!


UPDATE:  Carol reminded me that Amy Bunger's June 2012 newsletter showed the colors of Wonder Ribbon, so you can get it from her shop, too.  Thanks, Carol!
http://www.amybunger.com/f/AMY_June_12.pdf

UPDATE #2:  Bedecked and Beadazzled carries Wonder Ribbon.  Goldy saw it there her last visit.
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com


UPDATE #3:  Quail Run carries Wonder Ribbon. Susan says it is 6mm wide (compared to River Silk's narrowest 4mm ribbon which is what I use on 18 count canvas most of the time) and that it is stretchy.  "It is great for veils, stockings, bags, windows, screens, edging ."
http://www.quailrun-inc.com

UPDATE #4:  Susan (this is another Susan) adds it also comes in 2.5, 12mm and 20mm widths.  She uses it a lot in her art crazy quilt pieces, including the current one.  (I think I spot some in the header photo of her blog, actually.) Read her comments below for the various names it comes under.  
http://plays-with-needles.blogspot.com

UPDATE #5:  Palma has a great source for Wonder Ribbon, a bead store that stocks all the sizes.
http://shop.sonoranbeads.com/WireLace_s/163.htm

UPDATE #6:  My apologies to Quail Run for sending them so many calls they posted Wonder Ribbon info on their blog.
http://sonorandesertstitching.blogspot.com/2012/07/wonder-ribbon-by-collection.html

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

Class Announcements

Want to learn something new?  BeStitched in Arizona has a few openings in their Barbara Elmore shoes closet class.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/last-call-for-barbara-elmores-maries-shoe-closet-workshop/

If your guild wants a fun lecture, Terry Dryden has just developed one on design that sounds like great fun.
http://www.terrydryden.com/-blog/2012/7/23/created-a-new-lecture.html

Robin King's going to teach a fun vase of flowers class at Bristly Thistle in October.  You can get some hints about what she plans here.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2012/07/flowers-in-vase-nd-311.html

Family Arts Needlework is going to do an elephant canvas, complete with trinkets from your jewelry box, with Linda Coriossi.  Each one will be unique.
http://tapestryfair.blogspot.com/2012/07/636-painted-elephant-class.html?spref=fb

If you are anywhere near Nimble Needle August 5, get yourself into their canvas embellishment class with SharonG.  She and Brenda Hart are my stitching inspirations because they are talented from the tip of their heads down to their toes.  This is a Don't Miss opportunity.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2012/07/sunday-august-5th-with-sharong.html


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

America The Beautiful Tapestry

Thanks to Dorothy Hartel's posting on the ANG email list, I can direct you to this video of EGA's American the Beautiful tapestry, which is on display at the Allentown Museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania until August 26.
http://www.mcall.com/entertainment/arts/mc-embroidery-allentown-art-museum-20120720,0,3542425.story?page=2

There are other needlework pieces also on display as part of the same exhibit.  I hope some of us are close enough to Allentown to visit this show.
http://www.allentownartmuseum.org/exhibition/flora-fauna-needlework-landscapes

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

Charleston Eye Candy

It's a Stitch of Charleston, South Carolina has a lovely customer gallery slide show that is fun to watch over your morning coffee (or evening cocktail).  The finishing is lovely and the designs varied.  Thanks for posting such great work for us to enjoy!
http://www.itsastitch.net/gallery.html


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

Blogger's Not Well (UPDATED)

Blogger, the free system that powers and hosts Blog, is not feeling well. Whenever I try to save or publish a post I've just written, I get an error message asking me to try again.   I've also noticed problems with other folks' blogs which are on Blogger.  Messages I get in my reader are not there when I go to their blog.  This is Day Two of problems.  I have posts written out through the middle of August so things should keep posting even if I can't write new posts, but don't be surprised if you are having trouble with your blog or trouble reading your favorites.

Nothing we can do.  Google has to figure out why I keep seeing "An error occurred while bring to save or publish your post.  Please try again."  Until they do, we will have problems.

Sigh.

UPDATE: Blogger seems better this morning.  Cross your fingers!

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

Copyright Comes Back to Bite Bloggers

The ugly word "copyright" has come up again on the ANG email list.  I am quoting the message posted there that sparked discussion of copyright and images of designs in full:

"If a group or individual is signed up to take an educational course through ANG, you have paid a fee to the teacher for the use of the instructions.

If you share photos of your work and/or instructional information within the paid group, and the information is only available to that paid group, it is acceptable.

If the information for the class is posted online, on a blog, facebook, etc. where it is available to the general public, it risks infringement on the copyright the teacher has established, since it could be copied without due payment to the teacher.

Please keep this in mind, and do not post class information for the general public's use.

Sharon Quick
ANG Distance Learning Coordinator"

I thought it important for me to comment on this message, which a lot of bloggers are taking to mean that they can't post photos of their works-in-progress or finished pieces. You need to keep in mind that I am not a copyright lawyer but as I understand things, ANG's policy is correct. A design you stitch, whether from a class, painted canvas or a chart, doesn't belong to you. The actual object belongs to you, of course, but the image on it still belongs to the creator under copyright law.  Posting an image without the copyright owner's permission online is not legal. Doesn't matter that you changed the design somewhat (or a lot) and you paid big bucks for the class piece/canvas/chart--the copyright still belongs to the designer.

However in practical terms, designers are happy to have shops post photos of their work online without permission in order to sell the designs.  No one is likely to buy a design sight unseen in these days when so many of us have no needlework shop access except online.   This applies to both counted thread and painted designs.  It has become standard for shop to show photographs of chart covers and painted canvases on their websites in order to appeal to distance shoppers.  I am told some designers include permission to use photos of their designs on shop websites for sales purposes, although there are restrictions attached.

Teachers are also usually happy to have their class promoted by ANG or a shop or by a student through images.  What no one likes is to have a photo of instructions shown off, a special technique they invented described in detail without permission, or a closeup image posted that is so good that a stitch painted canvas can be reproduced from that image.  You can't legally reproduce a diagram, instructions, photograph or page from a chart without permission on your blog, your Facebook page, in your stitch guide, as a Stitch of the Week shop posting, etc.

You should always ask first before using images.  I've never had any designer whose canvas I want to  blog-stitch refuse me permission to post photographs of their design and my stitching of it.  In my experience, teachers are the most touchy about copyright violation since it is not only images of their designs they are worried about, it is instructions and diagrams, too.  Some even object to having their class instructions resold on eBay, not wanting folks to have trouble working from partial instructions that were meant to be supplemented by classroom instruction.  That gives them a bad name, even though the instructions weren't meant to be used that way.

What if you can't reach the copyright holder to get permission?  It's still illegal.  I am in violation of copyright all over the place with the Loretta Spears blog I set up.  Loretta and her husband are dead and her daughter is rumored to also be dead. No one has been able to contact other heirs although there are people trying.  There is no one to ask permission of, but I am still in violation of Loretta's copyright rights.  If one of her heirs turns up and asks me to delete the Loretta Spears Archive blog, I will do so.  Until then, I am promoting and documenting her work in the hopes that it will keep her designs available long enough (I think her copyright expires 50 years after her death) that eventually they can be legally reproduced.  Doesn't matter that my motives are pure, however.  I'm still in violation of Loretta's copyright.

On Blog my policy is to ask permission when I get ready to stitch a piece I am going to post photographs of.  These days I am usually working o a model for a designer who is thrilled by the publicity but I still ask, especially when I can mention a piece.  (Often I can't show images until after the canvas debuts at a trade show.)  I don't have time to take classes so I don't have to consider how to handle instructions and special techniques I am being taught but it does seem reasonable to ask the teacher if you can show off your progress through photos, to make sure you don't reveal any special techniques the teacher is making money off selling instructions to, and to give them credit at all times by mentioning the shop or online resource where you took the class so that others who are interested can sign up for it as well.  I have occasionally mentioned techniques that someone else invented like David McCaskill's fake bullion stitch or Don Lynch's basketweave beading technique, but I have permission from these folks to do so.  And I always give credit for something unique I've seen, like Julia Snyder's messy beading technique and I link to the place something was demonstrated when possible.

The bottom line is to always ask, to make sure you don't reveal trade secrets, to give proper credit, and to not show anything in the way of charts, instructions or stitch diagrams if you don't have permission.  It's not 100% legal to work this way but it seems a practical way to approach a visual craft to me.  But don't take what I do as gospel.  Each stitcher needs educate themselves on copyright law, to work out what they believe is ethical, and to ask permission before posting photographs, diagrams, instructions and special techniques.

It's in our best interest to do so. Where will we be if copyright violations make it impossible for teachers and designers to make a living?

P.S. There are several copyright resources online for stitchers.  Here's what TNNA hands out to shops, courtesy of Stitchers Workshop--
http://www.stitchersworkshop.com/blog/?p=994

Needlepoint Now hosts an article written by two stitchers who happen to be copyright lawyers.  There are many other copyright resources but these are intended for needleworkers.
http://www.needlepointnow.com/advertisers/copyright/

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

What I Actually Prefer to Beads and Sequins

Nimble Needle is a big fan of metallic threads.  How do I know?  I read this--
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2012/06/sparkle-delight.html


Following in the steps of Needle Necessities, ThreadworX dyes Kreinik metallic in sizes 4, 8 and 12 to create some beautiful colors.  Here is their #8 size page, but the colors are available in almost all sizes.  This thread is just like Kreinik metallics to work with, only the colors are different.
http://threadworx.com/product.php?catid=8&catName=Hand%20Overdyed%20Metallic%20#8%20braid%20-%2010%20yards&pg_num=1

Caron's Snow is a synthetic metallic thread that is a little stretchy.  I find one strand perfect for 18 count.  The colors are lovely and the threads easy to use.  Melissa Shirley is using yellow to stitch a wonderful design.  (See her Facebook "Melissa Shirley Designs" account photo albums.)
http://www.caron-net.com/tN6color.html

These are not the only metallics available now--in fact the variety is staggering--but Snow and over dyed Kreinik are wonderful threads on the right canvas.

However, if you are a sequin and bead kind of person, Vicky's got lots of photos of the newest from The Collection.  There's even Wonder Ribbon, which I've been wondering about.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/07/15/so-what-exactly-is-in-that-bag/


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

The Turbo Stitcher Award

The Turbo Stitcher Award goes to----
[the envelope, please]

SUE!!!!  [wild applause]
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/07/look-what-can-be-done.html

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

Visiting Needlepoint Shops

Althea takes us to Salt Lake City on her latest Shop of the Week posting to visit Needlepoint and Other Things.
http://bargelloneedlepoint.com/shop-of-the-week-needlepoint-other-things/

I wasn't familiar with the shop but there's a nice website to explore here.
http://www.needlepointandthings.com/

Her next Shop of the Week is Next Station Needlepoint in Connecticut.  Sounds like a fun place!
http://bargelloneedlepoint.com/shop-of-the-week-next-station-needlepoint/

Too bad I can't get most of its website to open. Maybe you'll have more luck?
http://www.needlept.com/new-needlepoint.html

The next stop is Kansas and Two the Point.  This is another shop without a website that I didn't know existed.
http://bargelloneedlepoint.com/bargello-shop-of-the-week-two-the-point-needlearts/

Donna's been on the road, too, first to a sampler exhibit, and then to two shops.  One is Fireside Stitchery, a place I've always wanted to visit.
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2012/07/road-trip.html

http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2012/07/stash-acquisition-in-pennsylvania.html

Don't you wish you could go to all these places?


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

New Shop in New Orleans - Yeah! UPDATED

All you stitching tourists and locals, take note--there's a new shop in New Orleans! Thanks for the tip, Katherine.
http://www.needleworkvault.com/index.htm

UPDATE:  Thanks to Chris, I know the above link isn't working right now.  If you go to www.needleworkvault.com, you get a message that this is the future home of Needlework Vault.  Sorry, I do Blog postings as much as 2-3 weeks ahead of time, so I didn't realize this was a work-in-progress.   Instead, why not visit Boots and Beads, which is where I learned about the new shop?  It's almost as good as seeing the bare bones website right now.
http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/07/needlepoint-vault.html

Stephanie told us about Boots and Beads and Chris about the problem with the shop link I read about there.  Where would I be without my spies and helpers?!  Blog thanks you all!!!!

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

Easy-Count Guideline

A friend who is working a large complex portrait in cross stitch mentioned she is trying the Easy-Count Guideline to make keeping track of areas easier.  Since this seems of interest to all my friends who do counted thread projects from charts, I looked into what this is (link one) and how it works (link two's video).
http://crossstitch.about.com/od/optionaltools/p/rseasycountguid.htm

http://www.rseasycount.com/


I haven't used this myself but the next time I lose my mind and decide to work a counted project with a lot of detail, I will.  Thanks for the tip, Wendy!


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

Jan Needs Your Input

Remember my article at the CH Stitch Guides blog about folks trying other programs for charting stitches since Canvas X is becoming unusable on Macs?  Jan is testing Pages (the word processing program on Macs) and wants your input on which style of stitch diagram you prefer.
http://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2012/07/20/which-would-you-prefer/

Please head over and help her own with your opinion.


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

The Needlepointer's Classes Announced

While I wasn't looking, The Needlepointer has started to offer a nice selection of classes for all tastes and talents.   They just announced their August-October classes.
http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=2b1a4dafdf1ba6e29e773aa79&id=815bf13b9d&e=73961ee0ea

The shop is in Everett, Washington.  If you aren't local, you can always ask if they'll do a mail order class for you.
http://www.theneedlepointer.com/


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

Needlepointing the Powder Room

Carolyn Hedge Baird's latest blog article on Living with Needlepoint shows off needlepoint decorating one room we rarely think of when we think Needlepoint.
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2012/06/23/what-goes-in-the-bathroom-needlepoint-of-course/


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

Let's Meet Beth Gantz

The DMC blog has just posted a fun interview with Beth Gantz.  There's a link to her website where you can explore Beth's colorful and fun designs, too.
http://dmc-threads.com/interview-beth-gantz/

Don't miss the cupcake monthly club, which you can join if you contact Ladybug Stitches in Bohemia, NY. (No website, sorry.)
http://www.bethgantzdesigns.com/hobbies_clubs


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

Kitting Out Michael and Carol

If you are lucky enough to have the latest Needlepoint Now magazine in your hot little hands, you've seen Michael Boran and Carol Lake's latest project.  It is called St. Margaret's Star, and Scarlet Thread has assembled thread kits of all the colourways (plus Sara Leigh's own deep purple threads) for your stitching pleasure.
http://stitchything.blogspot.com/2012/07/a-galaxy-of-stars-to-stitch.html

I love seeing thread piles when I have to pick colors, and I bet you'll love seeing what Michael and Carol choose plus Sara Leigh's contribution to the color sets.


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

Yikes! UPDATED

I was shocked to read the article below this morning.  This little museum is about 30 miles east of me and I've both exhibited at and visited their needlework exhibits happily for years until they stopped them for lack of funding and manpower.
http://needleprint.blogspot.com/2012/07/loudon-museum-threatened-with-closure.html

The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors is thinking about closing the Loudoun County Museum. This place houses a lot of Loudoun County history and thanks to Betty Flemming, there is a great deal of stitched history.   I'm talking lots of local samplers, clothing and quilts.

I hope all you sampler fans will write the Board and ask that they at least keep the textile collection together and in Loudoun County by donating it to Oatlands Plantation, also in Loudoun County.  Otherwise a piece of Loudoun County's soul will be lost and Loudoun County will be just another suburb among the D.C. suburbs.  The Board of Supervisors are at BOS@loudoun.gov.  Here's a little bit about the museum itself.    It has a nice collection of photographs and documents about the county.  It's not just samplers we're talking about here.  This is a substantial piece of Loudoun County history that will go God knows where.
http://www.loudounmuseum.org/home.html

Here is Oatlands Plantation's website.  It is better funded, although I doubt it is financially secure either. What museum is in these times?  It's probably almost ten miles from the Loudoun County Museum, at a guess.
http://www.oatlands.org/

The majority of us are women who understand that over the history of mankind, the stories of female stitchers are often undocumented.  Certainly needlework of all kinds is not considered valuable by the majority of our fellow citizens.  This is our story they are taking about discarding, folks.  Please email the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors and tell them how you feel about that disrespect for us, the history of all people in this area, and how some things are more important than money.

UPDATE:  Donna and LaDonna say it best.
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2012/07/loudoun-museum.html


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

A Visit to the Stitching Studio

A friend of mine just took a class from Gail Sirna last month, which prompted me to visit her website. I wanted to revisit my favorite pieces, which are Gail's Sunflower and Morning Glory Santas. Much to my surprise, I discovered Gail has completely revamped her site, making it a great place to visit, to enjoy her bird canvases, admire the "postcard" series that shows places she's been, and just have a great time exploring.  Gail's done it all, from teaching to designing to writing to judging.  Her website shows her diverse interests and her incredible eye for nature.  Have fun visiting her studio and getting to know Gail better.
http://www.gailsirna.com/


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

Wood AND Glass Laying Tools

Amy's Golden Strand posted photos of a new style of laying tool on the shop Facebook page a while back.   The handles are wooden while the shaft and point are colorful glass.  This might be a good compromise for someone who wants to use the smooth glass without having to worry about it being too slippery in their hand.  There is one photo on the shop website but judging from the Facebook photo (June 19, 2012), these come in two lengths and a variety of woods but the glass tips are all the same colorful pattern.
http://www.amybunger.com/catalog/item/8464002/9384047.htm


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

Just in Case You Hadn't Heard

Just in case you hadn't heard, Needle Works' website is back up. This means you can successfully visit the links mentioned in this Blog article.
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2012/07/there-is-lots-going-on-at-needle-works.html

And I've stumbled across a site that tells you several places to buy half cone sticks.  Never heard of them?  Neither had I but they are quite useful as you will see.
http://janetgranger.wordpress.com/2012/07/19/where-to-buy-half-cone-sticks-for-needlelace-embroidery/


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

Heartbreak Scissors

Since we are talking tools today, please note Mary Corbett's scissors just broke her heart. They can do that to you.  Please read the comments as Mary asked for scissor recommendations.  This might come in handy when you decide on a new pair.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2012/07/bad-embroidery-scissors.html


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

News From Here and There UPDATED

Colleen of Needle Works has emailed her customers that the website is still down and the hosting site is working to get it up and running as soon as possible. She will attempt to retrieve orders placed online before the site went down when it comes back up.   Stay tuned!


UPDATE:  The site is back up!!  Remember, if you ordered something yesterday before the site went down, check with Colleen to see if your order is retrievable or if you need to place it again.
http://theneedleworks.com/

In other news, I updated the CH Stitch Guides blog with an article about Melissa Shirley's new Golden Crackers club.  These pieces were stitched by Melissa herself and the guides are written and stitched diagrammed by Robin King.  With that pedigree, you know it's going to be good!

To visit the CH Stitch Guides blog, either click on the magic carpet icon on the right side of the page, or click on this URL.  Personally, I usually ride the magic carpet since I can click on it again and return here without doing anything else.  Don't you just love magic carpets!
http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com/2012/07/mellissa-shirley-and-crackers.html

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

We Have an App!

Well, you and I don't, but Canvases Be Gone now is readable by Android flavor phones. Sounds like you have to download the app and then you can use your phone to visit the site. This doesn't work for Apple devices, sadly, but Dale says they are expensive and complex to write.
http://www.canvasesbegone.com/blog/good-ol-monday/

Congratulations!  I tried to leave a comment but that function doesn't seem to be working.  Hope you read this, Dale.

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

Display Your Jewelry with Needlepoint

I just had to show how one of Ridgewood's customers incorporated heirloom jewelry into what I think is a Barbara Elmore canvas!  Very clever portrait, don't you think?  This is one family heirloom that will be cherished for a very long time.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2012/06/here-is-helens-completed-and-framed.html


Here is Barbara Elmore's site.  You can see why I think this is one of her designs even though it's not shown here or on Sundance Designs Online, which is Barbara's distributor.
http://www.barbaraelmoredesigns.com/barbaraelmoredesigns.com/Canvases/Pages/Just_For_Fun.html


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

Needle Works News

There is lots going on at the Needle Works in Austin. You can see the wall of Kreinik and read more details here.
http://us1.campaign-archive2.com/?u=4634a11f4dc645137a4ed2a39&id=0ec80626e6&e=b510e3937f

You can go straight to the newsletter to see clubs, classes and the newest Columbus items here.  Sounds like great fun, doesn't it?
http://theneedleworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/201207newsletter.pdf


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

The Little Dutch Magnet UPDATED

My mother would love this new Kelmscott needle magnet.  She adores blue and white anything.  I don't remember seeing the sunflowers, either, although they are not brand new.
http://www.thesilverneedle.co/kelmscottstitchinggadgets.html#needleminders


UPDATE:  Whoops!  The link was wrong.  My bad.  It's fixed now.  (Thanks for pointing this out, Pat.)

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

The Zecca Lotus Comes to Maryland

Folks close enough to visit Baltimore shops in early September have a treat--Robin King is going to teach her Zecca Lotus piece at Bedecked and Beaddazzled during the time the TNNA trade show visits Baltimore.  You can see closeups of the piece and learn more about the class here.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/07/save-date-september-9th.html


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

Temari Book Review

Here is Mary Corbet's book review covering a new temari techniques book, which she say is good for both beginners and more advanced students of this Japanese art.  Having tried to understand temari myself from a book, I know how difficult it is to teach oneself to make these lovely decorative balls.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2012/06/temari-techniques-book-review.html

If you aren't familiar with temari, here is a site full of information and eye candy.
http://www.temari.com/


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

Introducing Owlcutus of Borg

Owlcutus

Any Star Trek: The New Generation fan will remember Locutus of Borg.  The rest of Blog's readers will have to look at this link to appreciate the joke when a friend of mine christened my owl from the Belleza Day of the Dead canvas Owlcutus of Borg.
http://en.memory-alpha.org/wiki/Locutus_of_Borg

What you see to the left of the bird is a flat steel washer.  I planned to use two size 8 washers as the owl's eyes.  What you see above is one washer in position, covered in satin stitches, and the second washer before it was put in place.  However, once I covered the first washer, I realized how out of proportion the eyes were to the rest of the owl's head and body.  Remember, this is a big canvas with a lot going on.  I decided washer eyes that were this big and prominent were a mistake, and removed the washer I'd covered.  Instead, I used stacked sequins for the eyes and a stopper bead for the pupil.

Owlcutus is no longer Borg.  He's just a little owl again.  The moral is proportion is everything on a needlepoint canvas--unless of course you are aiming to create cyborg owls!

The Scanner makes the eyes look different but they really are identical.

P.S. Can you see the slobber mark on the right any more?
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2012/06/watson-and-pencils-and-other-problems.html


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

Consider the Needlepoint Mirror

In her ongoing series of unusual ways to finish and display needlepoint, Carolyn Hedge Baird looks at needlepoint mirrors.
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2012/06/26/mirrormirror-needlepoint-mirror/

I did a wonderful little canvas that read

"Mirror Mirror on the Wall
 I'm My Mother After All"

for the ANG Auction one year.   It was beautifully framed in a gold frame with a similar pattern as the Scotch stitches I used, and was a colorful and happy piece.  I just wish I had a photo of the finished item to show you.  It opened my eyes to the magic a good framer and a mirror can add to your stitching.


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

Felting for the Needlepointer

One of the reasons we are going to miss the late Wendy Harwood of Aristeia is her creative use of things like wool roving on her canvases.  Check out this Melissa Shirley canvas in progress using Wendy's stitch guide.  The squirrel is wool roving that was "needle felted" into shape.  The wool berries are made from wool roving using the "wet felting" technique that is explained here briefly.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2012/06/diy-berries.html

Making round berry shapes by wet felting wool roving (or pet hair) looks incredibly easy.
http://www.lilblueboo.com/2012/02/how-to-make-felt-balls-wet-felting-101.html


Needle felting looks a bit harder but I won't know how hard until I experiment.  There's a video on this felting website that shows how it is done.
http://www.livingfelt.com/

Needles, mats and wool roving in colors that are amazingly ugly are available at the big box craft stores.  Etsy.com also has assorted color packs available from quite a few sellers if you want to support the little guy by purchasing several natural shades to play with for animals for your canvases.

I'm going to see if I can make a few felting balls from dog hair.  Watson, come here!  [time passes]

Wet Felting "Beads" From Dog Hair

What you see above are felting balls made from Watson (left) and Suki (right) and a tuft of Watson's fur.  His is longer and finer than Suki's and it made denser balls.  The trick is to use hot, soapy water and to keep working the mess into shape.  Watson's fur immediately made a flat disk, so I squeezed the disk into a ball shape with my fingers, then rolled it between my palms, pushing hard.  The two balls above took less than 10 minutes each.  I'll let them dry for a day or two and see how they look.  Each ball needs a little trimming to cut off bits sticking out.  Watson's fluff is longer and more like raw cotton, so it is definitely the better to make felted beads with.  You will have to experiment to see if your dog or cat or sheep or goat fuzz works well in wet felting.

I've not tried needle felting yet.

I've heard that you should use pet shampoo to deodorize the fur but I was experimenting.  By the way, the little balls are dry now and there is no dog smell to them.


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

A New Jean Hilton Chart

Jean Hilton's "Teals of Laughter" has now been released in chart form. This was a class Jean taught a few years before she died and to my knowledge, the chart hasn't been available since.  Stitches From the Heart has released it as a shop exclusive.  They've promised to take copies to the ANG Seminar in Philadelphia this fall but if you aren't going or can't wait, here is their website with a photo of Jean's finished design.
http://stitches-heart.com/jean-hiltons-teals-of-laughter/

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

Daylilies in Needlepoint (Cyber Class)

Laura Perin's announced her latest cyberclass--"Daylily."
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2012/07/some-stitched-friday-flowers.html


If you have a front yard like mine and are tempted, you can read more about the class on Laura's website.  Registration just opened....
http://www.laurajperindesigns.net/


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

Needlepoint Grows on Trees

At least Carolyn Hedge Baird says they do!
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2012/07/11/needlepoint-does-grow-on-trees/ 


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

Ergonomic Tips

Remember to rest those hands!
http://bargelloneedlepoint.com/hand-therapy-for-stitching-bargello-needlepoint/


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

I Shouldn't Post This

I shouldn't post this. I've already posted twice today and that's enough, but it is a Black Cat stitching story and it's Friday the 13th.  How can I resist?   (And it's a glimpse of one of the canvases that will be at the ANG Seminar Exhibit in Philadelphia, perfect for those of us who aren't going.)
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/07/13/happy-friday-the-13th/

Here's more black cat stuff.  This is an older article so some of the canvases may not be available any more.
http://www.nuts-about-needlepoint.com/black-cats-needlepoint/

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

More New Painted Canvases

Pocket Full of Stitches is starting to receive the new painted canvases they ordered at the June TNNA show. They've posted photographs of new Mindy and Leigh florals on their blog. Mindy's have buttons to attach and Leigh's have lace.  Wonderful!
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/07/whats-new-from-mindy.html

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

Books for Goldwork

Anyone looking for goldwork book recommendations will be interested in the books recommended for the gold work course that the Royal School of Needlework uses.
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2012/06/19/getting-ready-for-rsn-goldwork-course-text-books/


By the way, I just saw the RSN's own Embroidery Technique book for sale at Canvases Be Gone. I hope it's still there by the time this publishes.
http://www.canvasesbegone.com/9971/Saunders%2C+Sally%2C+Royal+Chool+of+Needlework+Embroidery+Techniques+needlepoint+159+pages.html


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

Hooo-Hooo-Hooo!

BeStitched is so eager for this wonderful Melissa Shirley owl portrait to find a new home they have it on sale at thirty percent off. You can even pick up a stitch guide and threads.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/melissa-shirley-owl-30-off/


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

Cats on the Ground

If you aren't a bird person, perhaps you'll enjoy Vicky DeAngelis' latest cat piece, one of SharonG's Art Deco cat designs.  Click on the photo for a better look at the magic Vicky worked, then...
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/07/07/what-is-there-no-stitching-going-on/

...take a look at the original to see all the details she added.  This canvas is also available on 13 count but I am pretty sure Vicky stitched the smaller 18 count version.
http://store.needlenook.com/Sharon-G-Cats-Night-Out-18M-p23704.html

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

Birds in the Air

Labors of Love has a very popular clip on bird canvas series that comes with tail feathers and the clip on hardware.  The design is double-sided so that the bird when the two sides are stitched together and stuffed, you have a bird that will attach to an artificial tree, drapes, or just about anything for display and delight.
http://www.laborsofloveneedlepoint.com/gallery.php?category=53

Nimble Needle has photos of two of these birds finished and promises more pictures when others return from the finisher's.  NN mentions stitch guides but not who wrote them.  However, I know that Tony Minieri and Amy Bunger both have done guides for many of these canvases.  Your local shop can find out if the birds you prefer have guides and from whom exactly, but from Amy's stitch guide catalogue, it looks like she has a guide for the Baltimore Oriole, the Flamingo, and the Peacock.  There may be more in the works, too.  I'm pretty sure Tony did the Owl but I can't find any information on exactly what birds he created guides for.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2012/06/birds-from-labors-of-love.html

These are charming and different enough that I imagine there will be flocks of needlepoint birds flying around all over, stitch guide or no.  After all, there's even a purple Halloween clip on owl!
http://www.laborsofloveneedlepoint.com/gallery.php?category=50

Come to think about it, Amanda Lawford has some lovely bird designs as well.  Something for every taste--that's needlepoint!
http://bristlythistle.wordpress.com/2012/07/08/rhinestone-birds-by-amanda-lawford/

Regardless of whether there is a stitch guide 
Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Rumor Mill: Regal Rabbit is Closing

I just heard on Facebook that Regal Rabbit in Napa Valley is closing.  
http://a-z-needlepoint.com/

[deep sigh]


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

Rittenhouse Newsletter

Rittenhouse Needlepoint has their latest newsletter online.  Their 3-D Santa class sounds especially interesting but you can also see the new Baby Fleece thread and laying tools they brought back from the Columbus trade show.
http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=9b9b7549e5c8f818070e0508c&id=5c00cf9182


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

New Designs and Threads for Your Viewing Pleasure

Folks are still posting about new items from the June TNNA show.   Do stuffed animal canvases make your heart beat a little faster?  You'll never see the Sew Much Fun stuffed critters in better photos than the ones Vicky DeAngelis took.  The second link shows both sizes of the various animals they offer.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/07/06/does-this-make-my-butt-look-big/

http://cindysneedleart.com/Canvases.html

Pocket Full of Stitches is posting photos of new items as they arrive in the shop on their blog.http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/

Interested in getting in on the custom size of this Ewe and Eye canvas that Amy Bunger is going to do a stitch guide for?
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2012/07/my-next-fourth-of-july-project.html

Are mermaids and pirates your thing?  Then you'll want to order this Eye Candy kit (painted canvas, threads and beads and more, plus stitch guide) from Ruth Schmuff.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/07/ahoy-mateys.html

Are you a thread-aholic like me?  Then you'll want to see photos of the new threads from Rainbow Gallery.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/07/09/thank-you-rainbow-gallery/


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

Christmas in July

I know a lot of people are stitching their brains out to make finishing deadlines for Christmas items, so I thought you might like to see a special finished ornament that was designed for the White House's set of needlepoint ornaments.  Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on "Pull Toy Research."  I think it's wonderful.  The other items are historical recreations in various types of handwork.
http://www.threadsofhistory.com/Eowyn/EowynsEncheiridion/Embroidery.html


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

Help for the Stitch Guide Writer

There's a new article on the CH Stitch Guides blog of interest to those who write stitch guides on Macs, particularly if you use Canvas X and are trying to find a replacement program to diagram stitches now that the Lion operating system won't run Canvas X and the creators of Canvas X have abandoned the Mac market.  As always, just click on the magic carpet picture on the right side of the page and you'll fly to the Stitch Guides blog. Click on the same image and Poof!  You'll be back here again.


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

Donna Goes to the Sale

I'm pretty sure Donna has been living right because as soon as she put a painted canvas on the top of her Wish List, a friend saw it on sale.  How often does THAT happen?!
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2012/07/happy-happy-happy.html


Sadly, it is on sale because a shop I've never heard of has a new owner who is divesting the shop of painted canvases.
http://www.needlesinthehaymarket.com/

Needles in the Haymarket is roughly an hour drive away from my house.  How come I never heard of it?  Just goes to show that when you never talk to other stitchers in person and a shop isn't good at publicity, you miss out.  Which reminds me.  Does anyone know if Stitches in Middleburg is open?  I've driven by there twice in the last four months and although there is a sign up, it doesn't appear to be open.


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

Ruth's Newletter Moves

Well, it didn't move far, but Ruth decided instead of emailing a newsletter to her customers who signed up for it, she would email them that it was posted on her website.  Click on July 2012 under the newsletter small photo and it will open for you to read.
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/newsletter.php


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

Bottle Cap Magnets and More

Pocket Full of Stitches shows off new bottle cap magnets from Carol Eix Designs. I'd seen these occasionally but never so many together. They are cute!
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/06/bottle-cap-magnets.html

Needle in a Haystack also has some new items on display at their blog.  I'm to going to tell you what; go see for yourself.
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2012/07/new-tools-for-stitchers.html


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

DMC Campaign to Support Our Local Needlework Shops

DMC has started a new program with free advertising for local needlework shops. There are a few details here, including the email where shops can learn more about the program.
http://dmc-threads.com/local-shop-campaign/


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

Antique Bargello

If you are a bargello fan, you'll be interested in seeing a piece dated to the first half of the 1600s found in a French museum.  When this bargello was stitched, Louis XIV was king in France, Elizabeth I and Shakespeare had just died, the Ming Dynasty was collapsing and the settlement of Jamestown was founded in Virginia.  It is amazing that it has survived so long but it did, a testament to the unending appeal of needle arts.
http://bargelloneedlepoint.com/bargello-needlepoint-in-the-1600s/


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