Mrs. Kreinik Joins the Stitching Angels UPDATED

Doug Kreinik posted on Facebook yesterday that his mother, Estelle Kreinik, co-founder of the company that keeps us in wonderful metallic threads, has died after a stroke.  I am sorry to hear it.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2012/11/estelle-kreinik.html

UPDATE:
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/so-much-on-my-mind/

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

Back Online after Hurricane Sandy UPDATED

Hurricane Sandy only briefly touched Chilly Hollow, giving us high winds and rain and now flooding, but no damage. The road out of here is cut to the east and west by the river now, but by tomorrow the water will be off the road again and any debris cleared away. We were much luckier than folks to our north closer to the coast.  The power stayed on although we lost Internet access, which means I didn't get to tell you about two new Halloween-oriented postings on the CH Stitch guides blog. Don't miss the free stitch guide from Palma posted there or the new monsters canvas underway from a Brenda Hart stitch guide.  Ride the magic carpet over to see the goodies and have a spooky time!

UPDATE:  Internet service is off and then on again, but I did manage to find this cute witch series for you to enjoy.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2012/10/blog-post.html

Ruth Schmuff just posted a Sandra Gilmore design worked in classes at Ruth's shop with Brenda Hart's help.  It is wonderful!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/10/moon-dance.html

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

Black Cats and More Halloween Treats UPDATED

I think maybe Halloween is a favorite holiday at Accountrement Designs. There are black cats~
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2012/10/halloween-count-down.html

waaaay too many spiders~   not to mention frogs!
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2012/10/look-what-is-creeped-in.html

http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2012/09/new-halloween-fobs.html

http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2012/10/creepy-crawlies.html

and evil witches cackling
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2012/10/i-see-you-my-pretties.html

plus ghosts
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2012/10/friendly-ghosts.html

and bats
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2012/10/bats-need-friends-too.html

and darling owls
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2012/10/hooting-for-halloween.html

with my favorite Halloween candy
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2012/10/what-is-halloween-without-candy.html

and skulls, both enameled sugar skull style and rhinestone!
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2012/09/additional-new-items-some-made-debut-in.html

http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/p/mag-friends-exclusives.html

Halloween Updates I missed during the hurricane--
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2012/10/halloween-final-countdown.html

http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2012/10/happy-halloween.html

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

Knock, Knock! Trick or Treat?

Lord of Fire, Courtesy of Ann Madson

How about a treat? I have something extra special for you to see today, courtesy of Ann Madson who spent the last few months stitching three of the Drama Dragon masks from Leigh Designs using stitch guides from Brenda Hart. They are MAGNIFICENT.

Earth Warrior, Stitch Guide by Brenda Hart

First, you need to see the entire unstitched series so you can truly appreciate Ann's work and Brenda's clever guides.  Here they are on the LD website.  Can you see the lovely bead accents on Lord of Fire and how each circle has a different pattern in red and gold?
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Grp464x.html

Earth Warrior has a wonderful padded nose as well as fantastic gold scrollwork.  I particularly like the way Ann used yellows, golds and oranges in each round circle's pattern.  His tassels are particularly beautiful.

Golden Emperor, Design By Leigh Richardson of Leigh Designs

Golden Emperor has stunning gold patterns on the golden bodies of the dragons that twist and coil next to more lovely gold scrollwork.  There are a lot of shades of gold on this piece but somehow Brenda and Ann figured out how to make each gold area distinct from the others.

Ann says she just stitched the way Brenda told her to but I think this has been the perfect collaboration of designer, stitch guide writer and stitcher, don't you?

Happy Halloween!

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

Scarier Than Any Goblin

Accoutrement Designs has created a series of cancer awareness scissors fobs and needle magnets to promote October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.   If you are female and haven't had a mammogram recently, now's the time to schedule one.
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2012/10/scary.html

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

Belleza's Jewelry Part 2

The Pendant Finished, Except....

It's been hectic here in Chilly Hollow so it's taken me some time to finish Belleza's necklace and pendant.  But they are finally done!  The chain is beaded while the pendant is a mix of gold threads, beads and Swarkovski crystals (the daisy-shaped marguerites and a button).

Muslin Basted on Back Side

However, after I read what Ruth Schmuff did for her Eye Candy "Mod Hearts" piece, I had to try it to add a bit of dimension to Belleza's necklace.
http://splittheneedles.blogspot.com/2012/09/love-me-do.html

Slit Closed and Excess Muslin Trimmed

Peggi at Tapestry Fair has done trapunto on a Christmas wreath needlepoint and suggested I just baste around three sides, then stuff through the open side but I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to stuff the corners well that way, so I cut a slit in the middle of the diamond shape and stuffed through it.  Then I sewed up the slit, took out the purple basting stitches that held my muslin in position, and trimmed the excess muslin to reduce bulk on the back side.

Dimension!

You probably can't really tell it but Belleza's pendant now raises gently off the black background of her tunic.  Success!

Flashy Necklace--Hurrah!

I've started working on her mirror, which is likely to take quite a while, so don't expect an update for several weeks.

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

Even More About the New Paternayan

Here's a bit more about the new Paternayan, courtesy of Janet Perry.
http://cmtk3.webring.org/l/rd?ring=bloggerswhoembel;id=7;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Enuts%2Dabout%2Dneedlepoint%2Ecom%2Fpaternayan%2Ddyeing%2Dfacility%2Ddetails%2F

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

Sighing Over the Finishing

If you are like me, you love to see finished stitching.  Fancy Stitches has lots and lots of items for us to drool over on their website. This is the Stand Ups, Boxes and Easels area.  You can find other types of finishing in the lime green Finishing pull down menu at the top of the page.  So pour yourself your favorite beverage and enjoy the show!
http://www.fancystitches.com/page9.html

If you don't have a lot of spare time right now, you can come back to the link above later and just enjoy the Halloween finishing The Needlepointer has on display.
http://us1.campaign-archive2.com/?u=2b1a4dafdf1ba6e29e773aa79&id=17248e6186&e=73961ee0ea

If you have some time, then visit Mary's house and see all her Halloween ornaments and pillows!
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2012/10/28/halloween-tree-treat-mary-roddys-big-tree/

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

Orna Wrestles with a New Design UPDATED

Since I mentioned Jeff Kulick's new charted log cabin piece this morning, it seems like a good time to recommend you also go visit Orna Willis' blog to see her newest charted project which is underway. Right now Orna is trying to explain what she did, which is a lot harder than stitching!  It looks like it is going to be a great design, though, and worth all her work.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2012/10/the-anatomy-of-new-design.html

UPDATE:  A little more progress....
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2012/10/new-design-next-phase.html

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

More Reasons To Hate Jeff Kulick

Reason #1   Jeff is wildly talented.  He not only designs original pieces that are knockouts, he also stitches them beautifully.

Reason #2   Jeff has just released a new design, his blue ribbon winner from Woodlawn last spring, "Deconstructed Log Cabin," which is just what it sounds like--a small section of a log cabin quilt pattern (lower right corner) surrounded by expanded sections of the pattern, all in greens and creams with touches of gold.  Trust me, the photos don't do this justice.
http://stitchything.blogspot.com/2012/10/not-your-grandmothers-log-cabin.html

Reason #3    I don't like counted canvaswork patterns but I am dying to stitch this in pinks, corals and oranges.  Sigh.  You are a very bad man, Jeff, to tempt me so.

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

Tracy Franklin's Goldwork Sampler

Thanks to Anna, I have a link to Tracy Franklin's goldwork sampler, which was published in Stitch magazine and is now a free chart on the magazine website.  What is interesting about this sampler are the many different ways you can use metal threads that Tracy shows.  If you are looking for something different, this will give you lots of ideas.
http://www.embroiderersguild.com/stitch/projects/goldwork/index.html

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

Bob Says It Best

Bob from Hunt Country Yarns has a point--I bet the portable battery powered Ott lights are a good investment if you have lots of power outages.
http://skeins-huntcountryyarns.blogspot.com/2012/10/frankenstorm-on-its-way-are-you-ready.html

We have LED lanterns which give a lot of light but it's not really a good light for stitching, so when the power is out, I can only stitch during daytime hours.  Makes you appreciate our ancestors who stitched by candlelight!  I might ask Santa for a battery Ott light for Christmas since we've had at least five power outages this year that have lasted anywhere from 3 hours to 5 days.

If the power goes out during the upcoming storm, not to worry, Blog will continue to publish as I have articles written for a month ahead of time.  I just won't be able to Ok comments or change the Canvas of the Day.  I'll catch up on that when power is restored since without electricity we have no Internet, heat, tv, lights or running water.  Let's hope not too many trees go down since Rinky Dink electric co-op is not really prepared to handle repairs.

I do have plenty to stitch.  I know you are shocked.  LOL

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

Are You a Pin Head?

Just as I found Sheena's cute witch boot diagrammed for her version of the ANG Stitch of the Month program,
http://www.sheenasstitches.com

...I also discovered this great explanation of pin head stitches, those tiny stitches we do under light coverage stitching to secure the thread without knots or away stitches that might show. (The diagram is set up for cross stitchers but anyone can use a pin stitch.)  A pin stitch is perfect for Sheena's witch boot as well as for the T stitch she plans to use in the background.
http://home.comcast.net/~bethkatz/stitch/pinhead.html

If you aren't familiar with T stitch, here it is diagrammed from the ANG website.
http://www.needlepoint.org/StitchOfTheMonth/2012/jan.php

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

Another October Newsletter

The French Knot's latest newsletter has a thread sale, announces their newest monthly club to start in the spring, and has their finishing deadlines for Christmas.  You can read it yourself here.
http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=f77e64cab&v=0011-h27AIlENi8BAhmHx7P_lhj3akbqFfEZN-a3lK8uEZTrmaA-JPITGnz_DyA7R_zaLtmBh50jh259WMl4cCgKgkCy5k87mY_4AIWq_7gRlTWH56YwBC30bKc7lf-Pqz5CvU7A7UPxrw%3D

or use this Tiny URL
http://tinyurl.com/8lofxsl
Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Counted Canvaswork Treat

Liz Morrow's Mad Miters is now available on her website!  This is a modern, fun take on Bargello that was a class for the Cyber Stitchers this year but now that the class is over, Liz is making the booklet available for everyone.  By the way, if you want to see a variety of colorways, just type "mad miters" without the quotation marks in the search box at upper left corner of Liz' blog and hit Enter.
http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2012/10/mad-miters-available.html

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

Yummy!

Carolyn Hedge Baird shows off needlepoint treats for the Trick or Treat season!  Yummy....
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2012/10/17/trick-or-needlepoint-treats/

http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2012/10/21/more-trick-or-needlepoint-treats/

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

Tips on Using Blending Filament

The Kreinik blog lists tips for stitching with their blending filament.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2012/10/stitching-tips-from-experts-you.html

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

Facebook and Counted Canvaswork

Fireside Stitchery has just announced a new ongoing Color Delights feature on their Facebook account.  Each week they will feature a different Needle Delights canvas from the Color Delights series at their account which is Fireside Stitchery Needlepoint.  "As a new feature on our Facebook page, we are featuring each design in the Color Delights series by Needle Delights Originals, along with thoughts on each from a talented stitcher who completed the entire set."

If you have a Facebook account, you can explore here.
https://www.facebook.com/FiresideStitcheryNeedlepoint

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

The Purse of Your Dreams

When Ridgewood showed off a customer's new needlepoint purse, I was inspired to find other examples of stitched bags.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2012/09/here-is-purse-everyone-dreams-about.html

This one isn't NPed but I had to include it!
http://www.annieandco.com/products/black-moire-tote-bag

Wait'll you see these vintage bags!
http://www.heavenlyhandbags.com

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

Is It Fashion or Pillow?

Can you pick out the close ups of antique needlepoint pillows from the close ups of couture dresses?  Which is fashion and which is a pillow?  (Correct answer- BOTH!)
http://fashionista.com/2012/10/fashion-game-is-it-needlepoint-fashion-or-a-needlepoint-pillow/

Many thanks to Barbara Bergsten who found this and posted the link on Facebook.

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

New and Improved Websites

I knew that Brenda Stofft had a new website, but I had no idea Susan Roberts and Robbyn's Nest had updated their sites also. Thanks, PFOS!
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/10/new-websites.html

Rittenhouse has done a makeover of their website, too.
http://us2.campaign-archive2.com/?u=9b9b7549e5c8f818070e0508c&id=b5b323815a

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

New Source for Wooden Tools

I don't think Bruce makes laying tools--yet. Bet he could if you asked nicely, though!  His lace making bobbins and other interesting gadgets are lovely.  Thanks for the tip, Janet!
http://janetgranger.wordpress.com/2012/10/24/a-new-supplier-of-half-cone-sticks-for-stumpwork-embroidery/

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

New Watercolors Colors from Caron

I don't know anyone who doesn't love the color schemes that Caron creates for their Watercolours cottons.  That means everyone will be interested in seeing the newest colors that have just been released.  And as a bonus, Nimble Needle shows off a very clever way of using overdue threads like Watercolours in the background without getting streaks as the colors change.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2012/10/new-watercolours-october-12.html

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

Padding Needlepoint

When I was in grade school, my favorite aunt came to visit.  She and my mother bought a pretty fabric with lots of horses in fields, under trees, jumping over fences, etc. and basted a sheet of muslin on the back side.  Then my aunt basted around the larger horses' outlines by hand.  Turning the fabric over to the muslin side, she carefully slit the center of the muslin inside each horse outline, stuffed it with cotton batting, and sewed up the slit.  When you turned back to the front, each horse was dimensional.  The fabric was framed and hung in my parents' house for years until finally it went off in a yard sale after my father's death when Mom decided she needed to get rid of a lifetime's accumulation of things and move to a smaller house.  But I remember the process well.  The trick my aunt said was to hand stitch many tiny straight stitches around the shapes, then stuff each shape enough to make them pop up appropriately.  That took time and effort because of the tiny legs, heads and tails of the horses.

You can imagine how interested I was when I saw this and wondered if Ruth was channeling my aunt!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/08/poofy-heart.html

Now Linda B. confirms that Ruth really is my aunt reincarnated.
http://splittheneedles.blogspot.com/2012/09/love-me-do.html

Wonder if my Day of the Dead lady needs a trapunto necklace...?

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

Do You Want Your Skull in Pink or Red?

Good news for Day of the Dead stitchers--the sugar skull magnets from Embellishmenets Plus now come in new colors. You can see them all here. (And there is a mermaid, angel, owl, seahorse, dragonfly and even an octopus magnet for everyone who isn't a DoftheD stitcher  to enjoy.)
http://www.needlestack.com/WebStore/EmbellishmentsPlus.html

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

Studying With Amy: A History in Stitches

Stephanie looks back at her classes with Amy Bunger using the pieces she stitched to remember.  It's a very fun way to track your stitching progress over time and also shows the evolution of Amy Bunger as a teacher in the ways that the classes were held.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2012/10/this-is-way-to-amys-house.html

http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2012/10/more-of-stephanies-amy-stuff.html

http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2012/10/kelly-clarks-nativity-with-amy-bunger.html

http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2012/10/kelly-clarks-nativity-characters-with.html

http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2012/10/the-magi-from-kelly-amy-and-stephanie.html

http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2012/10/oh-yes-one-more.html

For us bystanders, this is a great way to see just what Amy Bunger can do.

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

Is that a quail you are riding, Santa?

Quail Run has just announced a new Brenda Stoftt design that is exclusive to the shop. They'll be running a class on this sometime in the future.
http://sonorandesertstitching.blogspot.com/2012/09/exclusive-brenda-stofft-design-for.html

If you haven't been to Brenda's new website, here's the link.
http://www.brendastofftdesign.com/#!home/mainPage

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

Online Portfolio

Sandy Arthur's web master has posted all her available classes on her website. Her's the link to the PDF file.  It's a pretty impressive portfolio, if you ask me.
http://duodesignsinc.com/wpsite/available-classes-for-shops-and-chapters

Any shop looking for a class should do a little browsing here.

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

The Fascination of Or Nue

Mary Corbet just posted a bit about the new blog that the editor of Inspirations magazine has set up. So I headed over to check it out and stumbled across this fascinating article on Or Nue.
http://annascottembroidery.blogspot.com.au/2012/09/coloured-gold.html

Or Nue can be done in the round, too.
http://annascottembroidery.blogspot.com/2012/10/spring-daisies-2.html

It makes a spectacular background as you can see in Alison Cole's goldwork kits.
http://www.alisoncoleembroidery.com.au/kits-and-supplies/goldwork-kits/or-nue-gecko/

You can follow the link in the blog article to more about Or Nue or you can head to this free project by the late Mary Duckworth to try it out.  Gorgeous stuff!
http://www.caron-net.com/designerfiles/desaugfiles/augchrt.html

I really do need more hours in the day, don't you?

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

Chandail's New Website

In other great shop news, Chandail's redone their website. As you know the shop was recently sold and the new owner updated the website to reflect the changes she is introducing and the things she's keeping like they were.  Please note that with proof of ANG or EGA membership, the shop will give you ten percent off any purchase between the dates of October 10-November 30, 2012.
http://www.chandailneedlework.com/about-chandail-needlework.htm

One significant change is the new monthly clubs that are being introduced.  The clubs include Tony Miniei's Christmas Song ornament series and Melissa Shirley's angel ornaments.
http://siterepository.s3.amazonaws.com/956/e_newsletter_july_chandail_2012_0820_final.pdf

I think Tony's Christmas Carol set is a charted series, which is one of the rare monthly clubs for the counted canvas work people.  It also looks like there will be a Brenda Stofft series featuring her Halloween hats, but there isn't much information on the website, just a teaser photo.
http://www.chandailneedlework.com/products.htm

We'll have to stay tuned.

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

The Yarn Barn Lives!

The Yarn Barn in San Antonio has a new owner!  Yarn Barn of San Antonio Texas is their Facebook account name, so if you have an account, please go "like" them so you can keep up with anything posted there.  There still isn't a website that I can find.

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

Paisley Alert

Folks who love paisley patterns will be interested to hear that The Needlepointer is taking orders for a series of paisley animals created by Karen Grant Designs. These are really new and just now going into production, but you can order at The Needlepointer's website if you don't mind waiting a bit for delivery.
http://theneedlepointer.com/store/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=128

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

Amy Leaves Another Clue UPDATED AGAIN

Amy Bunger dropped another clue on Facebook about her 2013 Home Study canvas. She says it is stitch painted.  We know courtesy of Jackie that the designer Amy will use is female and that the project won't be holiday themed.  Amy added, "Designer not used before on another Home Study....not dimensional, but odds are it won't be framed either......and you may quote me."

I don't think "stitch painted" narrows it down much!  Bad Amy for teasing us so!

UPDATE:  Another clue from Amy on Facebook:  "...the hint was that the canvas is "stitch painted." Now another hint is that this designer rarely paints on #18 mesh and really wasn't happy about having to do it (but she did a FABULOUS JOB)."

ANOTHER UPDATE:  Stephanie has posted photos of the current Home Study, Melissa Shirley's Thanksgiving House.  These show upcoming lessons so if you are working the 2012 Home Study or are just a curious bystander, please visit Stephanie's blog for an update.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2012/10/sneak-peek-at-thanksgiving-house.html

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

Rugs for the Hunt Country

If you live over the mountain from me among the horse farms, you will want to stitch rugs like these.  They are lovely, traditional works of art.
http://horsecountrychic.blogspot.com/2012/10/needlepoint-horse-rug.html

http://horsecountrychic.blogspot.com/2012/03/fox-needlepoint-rug.html

Sometimes nothing works like tent stitches in wool.

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

A Treat for the Eyes: New Threads

Vicky has posted photographs of many of the new threads that came out in Baltimore.   They are mouth-watering!
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/09/26/one-can-never-ever-have-too-many-threads/

By the way, here are the new DMC overdyed floss and perle cottons.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2012/09/new-dmc-color-variations.html

And here are the new Wisper colors again, which happen to match Robin's cat perfectly.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2012/10/new-wisper-colors-from-rainbow-gallery.html

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

The Newest

There are lots of new things popping up all over. First of all, Bristly Thistle's found a neat new tool to help with stretcher bars.
http://bristlythistle.blogspot.com/2012/10/a-cool-stretcher-bar-tool.html

Unique New Zealand has created a smaller ornament version of their Keep Calm series.  Thanks for the heads-up, Vicky!
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/10/15/are-you-ready-for-this/

Finally, Barbara Bergsten has come up with new rolly polly Santas that she calls Santa Stitches.  She needs help coming up with the right threads for 13 count, however.  Can you give her some recommendations?
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2012/10/i-need-needlepoint-help.html

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

Bet Your Bag is Better than Valentino's

The Domestique just found this needlepoint purse from Valentino in the pages of the most recent Elle.  I am pretty sure we can do better than that and for less than $4400.00 USD!
http://thedomestiquete.wordpress.com/2012/10/18/needlepoint-bags-in-season-for-fall-2012/

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

Silk Gauze and Stirling Silver

Orna Willis' newest jewelry piece is on silk gauze with a sterling silver clasp.  It is meant to be a delicate heirloom and a treasure for a lifetime.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2012/10/heirloom-design-new-and-precious.html

http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2012/10/kit-gift-all-in-one.html

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

The Stitching Sorority (and Fraternity)

Katherine and Palma met up in New Orleans for food, stitching talk and fun.  I love Katherine's description of "a stitch sorority."  When you think about it, we are a stitching family connected via the Internet!
http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2012/09/lunch-with-palma.html

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

A New Fall Mystery

Laura Perin's new Monday Mystery class on her blog is October-themed. We'll have to see what develops....
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2012/10/mini-mystery-monday-october-treat.html

http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2012/10/mini-mystery-monday-for-october-pt-2.html

http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2012/10/mini-mystery-monday-october-finish.html

While we are on the topic of Laura Perin's designs, her latest one, "Harvest Moon House," is ready for purchase.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2012/10/harvest-moon-house.html

She's also reminding folks to sign up for her Harvest Time cyberclass before the deadline!
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2012/10/just-reminder.html

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

Robin Tours America UPDATED

Robin King is on the road, heading to Atlanta to visit In Stitches where she is going to take a Brenda Hart class. I'm not jealous at all--I always look this green!
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2012/10/48-hours-of-fun-at-in-stitches.html

http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2012/10/first-day-wrap-up-in-atl.html

http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2012/10/brenda-charley-me_5.html

She also swung by The Needle Bug.
http://theneedlebug.com/2012/10/every-once-in-awhile/

Now Robin's on her way to Bristly Thistle.  I am not THAT jealous, really....

The shop is trying to get ready.  Ever had company coming?  My house always looks like a mess when people are expected shortly.
http://bristlythistle.wordpress.com/2012/10/12/t-minus-22/

Looks like everyone had fun regardless!
http://bristlythistle.wordpress.com/2012/10/13/robon-king-day-one/

http://bristlythistle.wordpress.com/2012/10/17/robin-king-day-2/

Update from the Rock Star herself--
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2012/10/island-life-at-bristly-thistle.html

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

Classes!

There are always interesting classes going on at the various shops all over the country. Here are some that caught my eye--a Christmas teapot that is either Santa, a nutcracker or a bundled up snowman.
http://sonorandesertstitching.blogspot.com/2012/10/holiday-teapot-class.html

And a beautiful little jewel box.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2012/10/stephanie-made-this-oval-box-for-her.html

What wonderful classes do you want to take?

P.S.  I've fixed the first link.  Sorry!  Not enough coffee when I wrote this obviously.

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

Gay Ann Rogers on Sale

The yearly sale of Gay Ann Roger's counted canvaswork projects has just begun!  I recommend you read how the sale works here, then go to Home and start exploring her old teaching projects and the new patterns she has created.
http://www.gayannrogers.com/news-views.html

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

Belleza's Got a Pet

Did you know Belleza has a cat? Yes, courtesy of Fireside Stitchery and the artistry of Palma Seljan, there is a Day of the Dead cat named Catleza (or as I like to say, Cat LEEZA).  To learn more about Catleza and the five other cats in the litter, visit the Chilly Hollow Stitch Guides blog via the magic carpet, or click on the link below.  Happy Halloween!
http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com/2012/10/palma-and-day-of-dead.html

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

The Stitchers' Ornament Class

Linda took SharonG's Stitchers' Ornament class at Nimble Needle yesterday and offers us a glimpse of three of the different color schemes available, not to mention the fact that this beaded ornament also can be ordered as a square.
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2012/10/fun-day.html

This is a brand new design so it's not on SharonG's website yet.  I imagine one of her fabulous stitch guides will be available with the canvas if your shop orders it for you.  Here's a bit about the class before it started.
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2012/10/class-with-sharon-g.html

Here's more about the class and the various colors of Stitcher's Ornament.  A few extras are still available from Nimble Needle.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2012/10/sharongs-stitching-ornament-squares.html

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

Retro Clean

This isn't the first time I've heard positive things about Retro Clean, which whitens old linens. It's not something you are likely to use on needlepoint as far as I can tell, but if you have a stash of old linens like I do, you'll want to read about it.  Apparently it does a great job.  Follow the links in the article if you want to know more.
http://weoftheneedle.blogspot.com/2012/10/new-product-retro-clean.html

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

Silk Gimp (OR, Jane Falls in Love--Again) UPDATED

Mary Corbet has written about a new thread--silk gimp.  As I have never seen a silk thread I don't love, of course I am enthralled by the possibilities!
http://www.needlenthread.com/2012/10/thread-talk-silk-gimp.html

It's not going to be easy to find, but it is possible to hunt down using the links in the article above.  I suspect silk gimp is probably made by Access Commodities, if that helps you narrow your search.  It isn't on their website, however.
http://www.accesscommodities.com/products

Pipers Silks in England also advertises silk gimp.
http://www.pipers-silks.com/ProductInformation/SilkGimp.htm

UPDATE:  Mary shows off another type of silk gimp.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2012/11/thread-talk-silk-gimp-vs-silk-gimp.html

Piper's Silk Gimp
http://www.needlenthread.com/2012/11/playing-around-with-pipers-silk-gimp.html

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

Last Call!

Ridgewood has put us all on notice that Zecca's key fobs and threaders are no longer being made, so if you want one, let Ridgewood know right away.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2012/10/zecca-has-discontinued-its-key-fobs-and.html

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

Kelly's Stumpwork Koi UPDATED

Kelly Clark shows how to make a dimensional goldfish on her blog.  It is a lot easier than I'd imagined!
http://kellyclarkneedlepointhandbook.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-koi-and-turkey-preview.html

I think maybe we can give Kelly the Genius Award for this week, don't you?

UPDATE:  Kelly finished her stumpwork sampler.  Here's how it turned out.
http://kellyclarkneedlepointhandbook.blogspot.com/2014/03/stumpwork-sampler-finished.html

By the way, there is a smaller stumpwork sampler that Kelly worked and sold with a stitch guide to help you create it on your own.   It uses some of the same elements of the larger sampler.
http://kellyclarkneedlepointhandbook.blogspot.com/2012/09/kellys-new-sampler-stumpwork-naturally.html

UPDATE:  BeStitched shows off Kelly Clark's stumpwork sampler in a short video.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/kelly-clark-stumpwork-kit/

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

More Kreinik Videos from TNNA

Kreinik made quite a few short videos at the Baltimore TNNA show.  This one shows off the key fob kits from Voila.
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10150218307283316&set=vb.104419880939&type=2&theater

This is the Voila website.  Mute your sound if you are at work before you click on the link.
http://voilaneedlepoint.com

Whimsey and Grace shows off their sleep mask canvases and the matching bookmarks as well as their Halloween masks.
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10150215053293316&set=vb.104419880939&type=2&theater

There are more lovely Christmas Reflections designs from Whimsey and Grace here.
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10150213993853316&set=vb.104419880939&type=2&theater

You can get a better look at many of the finished masks here.
http://www.whimsyandgrace.com/new-items/

One of the Christmas Reflections ornaments you just saw used Kreinik's new holographic threads.  Here you see a very short video of an Elizabeth Turner design being stitched by M's Canvashouse using the same holographic threads.
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=401215683315&set=vb.104419880939&type=2&theater

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

Why Barbara Paints Her Own Canvases

Barbara Elmore just wrote a fascinating article about why she paints all of her own canvases.
http://stitchpography.blogspot.com/2012/10/why-i-paint-my-own-orders.html?spref=fb

How painted canvases are designed and reproduced is a very interesting topic.  From my limited experience each designer has a slightly different way of working.  Here is how Leigh Richardson of Leigh Designs works, from an interview she graciously did in 2010.
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/01/interview-leigh-richardson-of-leigh.html

Sadly, the bullwhip didn't make it into the photographs.  Sorry, Barbara!

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

That's One SCARY Shop!

Absolutely Needlepoint is decorating for Halloween.  If you happen to be in south Miami, do me a favor and dress up in costume before your next visit, ok?
http://absolutelyneedlepoint.wordpress.com/2012/10/05/ghosts-gobelins-and-more/

I think Bedecked and Beadazzled is just as frightening!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/10/eeek.html

Vicky isn't as scary but then we are all suckers for gifts from sisters.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/10/07/getting-into-the-spirit-of-halloween/

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

Embellishing a Forest

Kreinik published this video interview with Sally Baer of BB Needlepoint on the Kreinik Facebook account. I think you can see it whether you have a FB account or not. It's worth watching to listen to a master at embellishing NP canvases describe how it was done on her design "In The Woods" and see some of the new threads that were used.  The techniques Sally describes are wonderful.  Her website is the second link.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151072320323316

http://www.bbneedlepointdesigns.com

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

Share a Stitch Sunday UPDATED EVERY SUNDAY

Colleen at Needle Works has come up with the brilliant idea of Share a Stitch Sundays!  Here are the first two Sunday stitches--Baroness...
http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2012/09/share-a-stitch-sunday.html

...and Buckey's Weaving.
http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2012/10/share-a-stitch-sunday-1.html

UPDATE:  More Sunday Shared Stitches!
http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2012/10/share-a-stitch-sunday-october-14.html

http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2012/10/share-a-stitch-sunday-october-28.html

http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2012/11/share-a-stitch-sunday-november-4-.html

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

More about Belleza's Background

Belleza's Background

An anonymous visitor to Blog left a comment about the purple background behind Belleza, asking what the subtle sparkle was.  The sparkle comes from tiny round silver beads that look like BBs, set among the empty spaces between rows of one of Marnie Ritter's Flat Variation stitches.  I am a huge fan of Marnie Ritter's unique stitches and am always happy when one of her complex creations is suitable for a canvas I'm stitching.  This particular Flat Variation is from her Canvas Patterns Book I.
http://www.mritter.com/products.html

The stitch is on a page with other flat variation stitches.  It does not have a name of its own.  In the photograph I have finished the background stitching and have started adding the beads.

I wanted a rough texture in the background, as if Belleza was standing against a rough plaster wall that had been painted, so I choose the very beautiful High Cotton "Periwinkle" 310.  Because I wanted the shading of the background paint to show, I used just one ply of the five that make up a strand of High Cotton.  The addition of the silver beads was serendipity.  I was considering using them elsewhere and put a few on the canvas to see how they would look.  One rolled onto the background where it was the perfect contrast with the matte texture.  They are all attached with one double ply of DMC cotton in a color that matched Periwinkle (DMC #333) as one ply of High Cotton is to thick to go through the size 15 silver beads.

One of Marnie Ritter's Flat Variation Stitches, diagram courtesy of Sheena James

This flat variation stitch is done in diagonal rows, each row interlocking with the previous row.  The bead goes in the empty space between rows.  The stitch diagram is courtesy of Sheena James, who charted it for me.

Sorry the photo of the background isn't better.   High Cotton Periwinkle is an exact match of the background color so the camera doesn't distinguish between painted canvas and thread well.  The tiny silver beads raise the canvas off the scanner bed just enough that I can't get a good scan either.  However, by looking at the photo and the stitch diagram you should be able to tell what I did for Belleza's background.

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

Couture Needlepoint

Chris sent me the link to this fashion review of the latest fashions showing on the runway in London and Milan.  Once you get over the sweater that costs $33,000 USD, and actually look at the clothes, they are amazing.  Thanks, Chris!  I feel more fashionable already.
http://www.whowhatwear.com/website/full-article/microtrend-needlepoint/

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

While Stitching to the Olympics....

...Your mind starts to wander and you ponder stitching as a sports metaphor.  The Summer Games are over but this is worth thinking on while watching baseball, football, gold, any sport you adore.
http://www.mrxstitch.com/2012/08/13/improving-your-stitch-new-world-record/

If you don't have anyone nearby to act as coach as described above, visit Joni Stevenson's blog and take her tips for better stitching to heart.
http://creative-stitch.blogspot.com

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

A New Shop Is Opening.... UPDATED

...and it is only an hour from me!  This is indeed exciting news for those who live around Winchester, Virginia.  It looks to be a counted thread shop, judging from the report from the Loudoun Sampler Guild.  Sounds like it is close to the Route 11 potato chip factory, if you happen to be local.
http://loudounsamplerguild.wordpress.com/2012/10/08/new-local-needlework-store/

Of course an hour's trip one way isn't something I can make often but I know there are a lot of counted thread folks who live close to the new shop and this is very very good news for them.

UPDATE:  I found the website for Valley Needlework.  Sadly, it is catering to every needle art except needlepoint.
http://www.valleyneedleworks.com

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

Kim is Evolving

Kimberly Designs has posted a brief overview of Kim's career as a counted canvaswork and now a painted canvas designer.  The best place to see the counted designs she did before relocating to Texas is the second link.
http://akimberlydesign.blogspot.com/2012/10/a-kimberly-design.html

http://www.stitchers-paradise.com/Canvas_Embroidery/CEKimberlyCrum.html

Here are some of her painted canvases (with a few charts and stitch guides thrown in).  You'll see that they are unique.  There is nothing else like Kimberly's designs!
http://theneedleworks.com/catalog/index.php?manufacturers_id=116

http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/productsearch.php

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

I Learned Something New Today

I am not that interested in cross stitch (it's called that because keeping up with all those little Xs makes my eyes cross) but this How to Cross Stitch video is a Must See just for the new technique of stripping floss it demonstrates.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmndWGVUhvU&feature=player_embedded

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

Are You Feeling Feminine This Morning?

Gay Ann Rogers has created a lovely video featuring cameos, lace and cutwork handkerchiefs and her Flora design as a promotion for her eWeek sale which starts October 17th I think.  You can watch it here and feel very feminine indeed!
http://vimeo.com/49805705#

If you aren't familiar with Gay Ann's designs, please visit her website.  The video is currently playing on her home page, but I linked directly to it above in case it is removed before you get around to visiting it or want to replay it occasionally.
http://www.gayannrogers.com/index.html

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

Belleza Has Jewelry

Belleza Progress to Date

I'm plugging away at Belleza, trying to get as much of her finished as possible by Halloween.   Three main areas remain--her face tattoos, her hand mirror and her necklace.  I'm working on the necklace now.  It is a mix of threads, beads and crystals.  Once it is stitched, then I have a final touch that I hope will help the pendant of the necklace POP!  off the background of her black tunic.

She sure is sparkly!

There is more bling to come, too.

Stay tuned....

P.S.  Someone has stitched the twin to Belleza with a navy background instead of the green that is painted behind her.
http://tapestryfair.blogspot.com/2012/10/a-different-look-for-un-pocito.html

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

Making Laying Tools (and Selling Antiques)

I just added a new shop that specializes in various types of needle arts and framing to the blog list--We, Of the Needle.  They are located in Brea, CA, which is way too far from Chilly Hollow for me to take a field trip but at least we can visit via their blog.  Something I'm interested in are their custom laying tools.
http://weoftheneedle.blogspot.com/2012/07/shop-preview-cables-custom-laying-tools.html

Here is a glimpse of how these are made.
http://weoftheneedle.blogspot.com/2012/08/how-its-made-wooden-laying-tools.html

If laying tools aren't your thing, how about antique stitching tools?
http://weoftheneedle.blogspot.com/2012/07/shop-preview-antiques.html

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

Finishing Fun

This morning I have lots of wonderful finished pieces for you to see.  Finished but not framed is Miss July (Melissa Shirley). Looks like Christmas Parade (Tapestry Tent/Susan Roberts) isn't too far from being finished, either!
http://melindaslivingthegoodlife.blogspot.com/2012/09/meet-miss-july-2012.html?spref=fb

Quail Run obviously has a candy cane addict among their customers, but really there is a lot to see from many designers made up in various styles.  Nice stitching, guys!  (And with a finishing date of December 1, I bet there will be lots more to see here later this fall.)
http://sonorandesertstitching.blogspot.com/2012/09/finishing-of-week.html

Wait'll you see how Pat finished her penguin family.  The birds are mostly beads and ribbon.
http://needleartnut.blogspot.com/2012/09/framed-in-black.html

http://needleartnut.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-penguin-family_13.html

The topiaries from Kelly Clark aren't quite finished but they are so lovely I had to include them.  Anyone know who the designer of the pumpkin building series is?
http://needleworktheconstantthread.blogspot.com/2012/09/getting-into-fall-and-halloween-spirit.html

Finally, Ruth Schmuff has a new framed Halloween piece to show off.  It's guaranteed to put a grin on your face.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/09/silly-grins.html

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

Needlepoint Fairies and Other Fancies

I updated the CH Stitch Guides Blog yesterday with news about a new Sheena James stitch guide.  In case you haven't heard about the needlepoint fairy she stitched already, you can ride the magic carpet over to check it out by finding the photo of the magic carpet in the right hand column, then clicking on it.  Once you are ready to return here, click the magic carpet again (there's a photo in the same area on the CH Stitch Guides blog) and back you will ride.

Needlepoint is all about fantasy, isn't it?

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

Nimble Needle Classes Listed

Nimble Needle's blog has a listing of upcoming classes, all of which sound fabulous! I think it is particularly great that they aren't limiting classes to painted canvases.   Wonder how Beloved would feel about my moving Chilly Hollow to Jersey?
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2012/10/upcoming-classes-lets-get-stitchin.html

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

Needlepoint Here and There

Since Carolyn Hedge Baird started posting photographs of finished needlepoint in folks' homes, more and more folks have sent her photos of their stitching in its natural setting. She added a collection of photos of all sorts of stitching on her blog here.  The finishing is fabulous and the glimpses of how other stitchers display their needlepoint is inspiring.
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2012/09/23/afterthoughts-additional-interesting-things-about-previous-posts/

This note seems a good place to mention Ada's stitched models for her EyeCandy line of canvases.  They are displayed all over her house until they are needed at a trade show.  Here are the Halloween-themed canvases, just in case you are in the mood to stitch something seasonal.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2012/09/only-33-more-unpacking-days-until.html

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

The Status Thimble is Closing

Sadly, The Status Thimble is closing.   Their wonderful newsletter and the shop will be missed.
http://www.thestatusthimble.com/content/pdf/newsletter_2012_oct_01.pdf

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

Halloween is in the Air!

There's a new Mag Friends magnet, a creepy-crawly spider!  He's as elegant as an 8-legged critter can be in gold with black rhinestones.
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2012/10/look-what-is-creeped-in.html

Jill's figuring out how to stitch a pumpkin!
http://jillrigoli.blogspot.com/2012/09/ideas-about-stitching-pumpkin.html

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

Hungry Again

There's nothing more delicious than a new stitch!   If you need a pretty scallop on a design, Robin King has diagrammed one for you.  Yummy!
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2012/09/you-say-scallops-and-i-think-scallops.html

Speaking of hungry~
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2012/10/helen-was-thrilled-when-this-came-back.html

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

Missed the Finishing Deadline?

If you missed the finishing deadline to have things ready for Christmas, you can always stitch them together yourself.  Here's what Michelle of Bristly Thistle says about self-finishing.
http://bristlythistle.wordpress.com/2012/09/21/sandys-finishing-touches-2010-edition/

I do a lot of my own finishing, particularly ornaments.  I don't enjoy it since being patient is a big requirement (and I'm not!) but it sure saves a lot of money!  I don't own any finishing books, but I have used Summer Louise's tutorial to finish a mini sock and it turned out very well!
http://summerlouise.blogspot.com/2008/11/learn-to-finish-miniature-christmas.html

Summer's book on needlepoint finishing (and other books) are available here as paperbacks, eBooks, and PDF downloads.  I've not seen any of her books but I found the tutorial above very helpful.
http://www.lulu.com/shop/search.ep?contributorId=636550

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