Storing Scissors in your Frog

Someone on Facebook's Needlepoint Nation asked about storing scissors in frogs.  No, I'm not talking about amphibians, I'm talking florist frogs.  They are put in the bottom of vases and bowls to hold flower stems.  Martha Stewart explains here--
http://www.marthastewart.com/246433/flower-frogs

As you will have seen, frogs come in several styles.  The ones that look like a bunch of nails will scratch your scissors, so you don't want those.  Instead, look for the little metal cages or the glass domes with holes in them. Like this--
https://www.etsy.com/listing/122871079/antique-pink-glass-vase-flower-frog?ref=favs_view_4

Many dome style frogs come in pottery versions that are quite pretty.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/161478695/vintage-set-of-american-pottery-flower?ref=favs_view_7

Or quite unique!
https://www.etsy.com/listing/161463632/vintage-alligator-flower-frog-circa-1940?ref=favs_view_7

Another style of frog that Martha didn't show is the pottery figure with base holes.  These are intended to be set in large bowls with a few flowers inserted around the base figure.  Some of them are quite charming!
https://www.etsy.com/listing/172261912/pearlescent-finish-1930s-ceramic-owl?ref=favs_view_1

However, you want to make sure the central figure doesn't block the hole so that your scissors won't fit.  I think the bird wing might keep you from using some of the holes in this frog.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/117500519/antique-yankoware-colorful-bird-flower?ref=favs_view_2

This bird frog will work better and it looks heavy enough to not tip over if you insert several pairs of scissors in the base.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/162409222/vintage-bird-flower-frog-circa-1940?ref=favs_view_3

This one seems to have nice angled holes which you may find more useful.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/161470485/vintage-bird-flower-frog-circa-1940s?ref=favs_view_4

I also think you might want to only use frogs for embroidery scissors that are three inches long or less.  By the way, I don't know anything about the Etsy seller who carries a lot of the frogs I mentioned above. This Etsy shop just carries a lot of styles so I used it for reference photos.  It probably is better to roam through antiques places with your scissors and try before you buy.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A Little Magic This Morning

After all the work to prepare for the holidays, I thought you might like a little magic this morning. Salley Mavor is a book illustrator who works with felt and embroidery to create amazing scenes.  Start with the video and then explore her site....
http://weefolkstudio.com/about/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Blue Russian Update

I won't be ready to talk more about my Northern Light Santa from Leigh until next Monday, January 6. With the holidays and my TNNA deadlines, I can't do much on him right now. However, I did remove the demonstration background stitches I showed you last time and continued to work background around his head and shoulders.  I have about a third of the background done now.  Those who are following along should do the same--get as much background around his head and the top of his staff done as possible before January 6 so that you'll be ready to work with me as I start the next area.  Stay tuned!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Please Pass the Ammo

Tom P. mentioned on the ANG email list that a friend of his wife's recommended she store her spools of Kreinik metallic in shotgun ammo cases.  Like these--
http://www.mtmcase-gard.com

Note that Tom is talking about SHOTGUN ammo boxes.  If you want to consider other boxes, slip a spool of Kreinik in your pocket and test the box in the store to make sure it will fit.  Some rifle bullets are very tall and slender while hand gun bullets are not.  The cartridges that fit inside shotguns are taller and a bit wider than most Kreinik spools.  I think Accentuate and Bijoux spools might also fit, but it depends on the type of ammo.  I suspect the clerk at Walmart or Caebela's or other hunting goods stores are not going to know, so take a sample or two to try.

Thanks for the tip, Tom!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The 51st Annual Woodlawn Exhibit

March 2014 is on the horizon so Woodlawn Plantation has posted the brochure for their 51st Annual Needlework Exhibit. If you are going to send a piece to Woodlawn, download the brochure and get started on the paperwork! 
http://www.woodlawnpopeleighey.org/events

Thanks for the reminder, Maggie!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

What Threads are Best for Bargello?

Melita tries to answer the question of which threads work best for a Bargello pattern on her blog.  She did a lot of small test samples and posted a photograph to show the results.  Hope this helps you on your next Bargello project!
http://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2013/12/16/8-sample-threads-for-bargello/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The South African Bead Junkie Speaks

Was I surprised to find the South African embroiderer Hazel Blomkamp loves beads enough to stock beads in her online store? Nope. What stitcher does not love beads?!  (Some of us don't like them on our stitching, true, but we love to look regardless!)  Hazel's announcement about now carrying beads is worth reading even though we here in the States have easier access to beads than Hazel does.  She has lots of photos in each section that demonstrate wonderful ways to use that bead shape in embroidery.  This is a good series of articles to bookmark for inspiration later.  Hazel is wildly inventive in every way and that shows in how she uses beads.
http://therebelliousneedlewoman.blogspot.com/2013/11/a-range-of-beautiful-beads-for.html

If you want to see good pictures of the various types of beads Hazel is talking about, visit her website.  The photos of loose beads are good enough that you can see the shapes and the finishes, although you'll have to click on thumbnail photos to get a good look.
http://www.hazelblomkamp.co.za/component/virtuemart/03-supplies/02-beads-and-crystals/08-japanese-beads

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A Book Review: Bead Embroidery

Mary Corbet takes a careful look at the Royal School's newest book, The RSN Essential Stitch Guide--Bead Embroidery.   It looks like an interesting book with a lot of information that can apply to finishing and to canvas work.  Anyone seen a copy?  Can you tell us just how useful you think it will be for a needlepointed who wants to add beading to their skill set?
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/12/bead-embroidery-rsn-essential-stitch-guide-review.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Petei Contest

Stephanie has thrown down the gauntlet--whoever has the most Petei Santas wins!
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/11/whoever-has-most-petei-santas-wins.html

I'm not even in the bottom ten as my few Petei canvases don't include any of the iconic Santa designs.  What about you?

I guess now that Painted Pony has picked up the Petei line we can start to assemble a collection, though.  Let's see, do I want Cleopatra or the Astronaut most...?

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Friday Finishing: The Mustang Pillow

Mary Agnes, who is always original, stitched her first car in this vintage Mustang design, then made it into a shaped pillow.  How clever is that?!
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2013/11/mustang-needlepoint-pillow.html

I write Blog articles as far ahead as possible since Real Life has a way of getting in the way of my blogging schedule, so I have a lot of Christmas pieces to show you still.  Here are some wonderful holiday pieces that arrived at Enriched Stitch before Thanksgiving.   I think they are great!
http://astheneedleturns.com/more-finishing/

http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/12/blog-post_3.html

http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/12/ornaments-from-christmas-past.html

http://cityneedlework.blogspot.com/2012/06/twelve-days-of-christmas.html

This artistic and charming piece is a favorite of Erin's.  I can see why!
http://needlepointland.com/2013/12/19/patricks-stocking/

But we aren't all Christians. Aren't these Hanukkah pieces gorgeous?
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/12/hollys-beautiful-hanukkah-decorations.html

This may be the last of the holiday finishing!  That train has left the station.  LOL
http://splittheneedles.blogspot.com/2013/12/the-christmas-train-leaves-station.html


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Needlepoint Now Newsletter

The Christmas edition of Needlepoint Now magazine's newsletter is up on their site, full of holiday cheer (and poetry).
http://www.needlepointnow.com/wp-content/uploads/NN_NWSLTR_Dec13.pdf

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Leigh Re-Releases Christmas

Leigh Designs has re-released some of their vintage Christmas stockings. The stockings come in two shapes and a variety of styles. There are stockings with houses in winter, nutcrackers,  stockings featuring candles and fancy candlesticks, some amazing harlequin stockings, Christmas tree stockings, and of course the famous Byzantine stockings.  If you are in the market for something just a little different but classic for your 2014 Christmas stocking, this is the place to look.
http://leighdesigns.com/ImgIdx2i.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Robin Reports from the Nimble Needle UPDATED AGAIN

Robin King was at the Nimble Needle in Atlanta in late October and has posted the first part of a report on all she saw and did there.   Speed dating?  LOL
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-nimble-needle-atlanta-experience.html

http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2014/01/the-nimble-needle-atlanta-part-2.html

http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2014/01/the-nimble-needle-atlanta-part-3.html

Robin's going back this week and will report on the canvases awaiting her there.  Can't wait!
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2014/02/the-nimble-needle-atlanta-february-2014.html

Makes me want to visit the shop and take a Robin class!  

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays!

Watson Says Merry Christmas and Get This Thing Off Me!

Christmas is both a religious and secular holiday, time to think about Jesus' birth if you are a practicing Christian and time to reconnect with family and friends no matter what faith you follow.  From all of us in Chilly Hollow, Merry Christmas if you celebrate and Happy Holidays if you don't.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Horizontal Milanese Masquerade

Sheena likes to share a stitch diagram on her blog occasionally, but being Sheena, it's never just a stitch diagram. This time Holizontal Milanese comes disguised as a Christmas tree! 
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/horizontal-milanese-christmas-tree/#comment-282

Since it is Christmas, don't miss visiting the Linder Tree, a Cleveland landmark turned into a canvas by Wool and Willow, stitch guided by Sheena herself.  Many of us don't have a tree (I don't this year, not with Watson the Clumsy galloping through the living room!) but we can always stitch the tree of our dreams.
http://i1.wp.com/www.sheenasstitches.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_0016_2.jpg

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Angels Sing On High

I love angel canvases.  Luckily Anne Stradal of ABS Designs does also and has posted photos of her angel canvases for us to enjoy this Christmas Day.
http://thecapestitcher.blogspot.com/2013/12/an-angelic-season.html

If you are enchanted like me, visit Joan Thomasson's website and explore all the angel kits she offers.
http://www.joanthomasson.com/ProductCategories.aspx

By the way, this angel stand up made into a rocking stand up is different and beautiful!
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/12/noreens-angel-topper-made-into-rocker.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Blue Russian: Choosing Background Threads and Stitches

Once I had a background shape roughed out, then it was time to choose a thread and a stitch for the background.  I wanted something small in scale, Leigh wanted something that looked icy and cold, and I wanted a beautiful stitch.  I always like beautiful backgrounds, don't you?  This is Father Frost, the Russian Santa, so I was thinking cold, icy and Fabrege in style.

I looked at all the threads I had chosen, trying to find a color than enhanced the blues and silvers and whites on Santa that looked icy.  I couldn't use white or pale blue (the natural choices for an ice look) since the whites and pale blues of the Blue Russian would run the risk of blending into the background.  What to do?  I knew I could always go with ecru as Northern Light Santa is painted on ecru canvas and looks good, but this isn't an icy color.   I finally ended up with a lovely shade of pale pastel blue with a hint of green mint--Splendor S855.  It is called "Blue Blush."
http://bethsneedlepoint.com/Dot_StoreProducts.asp?storecategoryDesc=Splendor&idstoreCategory=57

I like it because it is so pale but it is not white or blue.  I only had Splendor, though.  To get the proper icy feel, I was going to want Silk Lame Braid with its metallic sparkle.  Have you used Silk Lame Braid before?  I love it!  It is Rainbow Gallery silk mixed with metallic in three sizes:  13 count, 18 count and Petite.  You choose the diameter of thread based on what stitch you plan to use.   But does the same pastel blue with a hint of mint come in Silk Lame Braid?  To find out, I used my Secret Weapon--I emailed Rainbow Gallery and asked.  The answer was YES!

And I soon had my hands on 18 count Silk Lame Braid SL17 and Petite Silk Lame Braid SP17, which you see in the photo along with the original Splendor S855.  They are all the same color, except that the Silk Lame Braids have a touch of green metallic woven in with the silk.  (By the way, the 18 count SL17 also has gold highlights along with the green although the Petite SP17 does not have a touch of gold.)  In the photo you see three cards of my color in regular and Petite Silk Lame Braid and also in Splendor.  The stitched area around Santa's head and staff are in that color although ti looks whiter in the photograph.

For the background, I choose a lovely stitch called Staggered Crosses.  That's the diagonal stitch in the upper right of the canvas above Blue Russian's head.  I've only stitched the big crosses in the photo above.   The tiny cross stitches (which can be replaced by beads) have not been done yet.

Why that stitch?  Because it is beautiful, it is a two-step stitch so I can add a second thread to ramp up the ice or beauty factor in Step Two, and it is small scale.  All that matters.  In the large photo above you will also see three tubes of beads and a packet of blue crystal sequins.  I have been considering whether to use beads or sequins in Step Two of Staggered Crosses, so I poured out clumps of beads and put sequins on the canvas just to see what the colors do with my stitch.   Right over Santa's head are a clump of tiny pearls, then there is a clump of crystal beads, and finally on the right side a group of blue-green beads. So far I like the pearls best.  I also put two blue sequins on the canvas.  Alas, I can see I need to stitch more of Santa before I decide what to do with Step Two in the background.

If you look even more closely at this photo, you'll see I have three background stitches tested in the background.  On the right side I've done quite a bit of Staggered Crosses (and will do some more of that background after Christmas) but on the left I've worked some Large Woven Stitch in gold and blue.  This stitch is groups of slanting parallel lines with a shorter stitch in between. You can do all three stitches in a stitch unit in one color or you can use a second color on the middle short stitch.  This is a slightly larger scale stitch but very elegant in golds.  It occurred to me that folks stitching several Russian Santas might like a stitch that they could use on all of their Santas.  Blue Russian could have a silver background with blue touches, the Holly Santa could have a gold background with green touches and the Birdland Santa could be gold with red, etc.  You get the idea.

This is what Large Woven Stitch looks like.  Sharp observers have also spotted the blue snowflake on the left side of Santa.  This is actually a Russian Orthodox cross.  I thought folks who want a basketweave background because they are doing a shaped stand up or ornament might like to include something Russian in the background.  I charted two of these Russian style crosses--one color block equals one tent stitch.  They can be scattered across the background.  Make a paper copy of your canvas and put coins all around the background until you find an arrangement you like, circle the coins on the paper and then put your Russian Crosses there on your actual canvas.

Before I end for this week, I have added a new tab to the front page of Blog--a materials list for the Northern Light Santa.  As I make my choices, I will list the materials I am using there for those of you who are copying my stitching exactly.  Eventually I'll transfer that list to the stitch guide but for now, it's there to help you in your shopping.  For those of you who have to mail order everything, I suggest you wait until I am further along before you start ordering so you don't have to pay multiple shipping charges. I'm sorry, but this is unfolding as I blog, so I don't know what I am going to use yet.

I'll be back again on January 6th with more stitching on Blue Russian. Until then, everyone have a happy Christmas and a safe New Year!

Questions?  Email me at chillyhollow @ hotmail.com and I'll get back to you by the next day.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A Special Nativity Set UPDATED

Speaking of Nativity sets, I have a very special one to share with you this morning, courtesy of Dr. Palma Seljan, who has been stitching the set since early September. This set was designed by Deborah Woodward of Painted Pony.  The pieces can be stitched as a double-sided stand up but Palma chose to do only one side for each of the figures.  Many of the figures are eight inches tall, but some of the smaller ones are five inches tall and the buffalo is the largest at nine inches.

Prepare to be amazed....

The Buffalo

The Horse

The Wolf

The Angel

Little Shepherd Girl

The Pots

Blackfoot Chief

Comanche Chief

Souix Chief

Jose

Maria and El Nino

First Two Pieces Finished by West Coast Finishing

Thank you for sharing, Palma!

UPDATE:  Palma has all the pieces of her Nativity set back from the finisher.  You can see it here.  Use the Next command at the upper right corner of the photo from more views of the set.  Amazing!
http://stitcherie.ning.com/photo/finished-nativity-set3/prev?context=latest

UPDATE #2:  Ruth Schmuff is showing off the Nativity set at her shop, Bedecked and Beaddazzled.  Stop in if you have a chance to see these beauties, but if you aren't around Baltimore in time, Ruth posted photos on her blog.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2014/02/southwestern-nativity.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Nativity Sets

I love Nativity sets. I well remember the traditional painted plaster set from my childhood. Battered and broken in places, it still went on a table for Christmas since my parents wanted to remind us that Christmas was not just about our getting presents. Stephanie is equally in love with Nativities, but unlike me, she has a needlepoint collection of Nativity sets that she shares on her blog. It's a wonderful reason to think about the meaning of Christmas, even if you are not Christian.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/12/jesus-is-reason-for-season.html

http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/12/about-those-other-nativities.html

http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/12/kelly-clark-nativity-with-guides-by-amy.html

http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/12/unusual-nativity-set-from-demarj.html

Enjoy Christmas Eve.  It's my favorite day of the year.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Russian Santa: Choosing a Background Shape

I am a bit unusual in that I always stitch my background before anything else. Of course this time I started with the face as I waited for the poll on how to finish the Northern Light Santa closed, and then waited on input about background from Leigh Richardson of Leigh Designs and Sue Parsons of West Coast Finishing. I also am waiting for threads since I'd chosen the perfect color but didn't have it in the right thread type, so I had to SOS Rainbow Gallery to come to the rescue. (More on that later.) 

First, the poll:  Eighty-four percent of Blog's readers voted for a stand up figure, eleven percent wanted an ornament and five percent didn't care how my Russian Santa was finished.  I consulted Leigh as this will be a model for her trade show booth and she agreed that a stand up figure was preferable.  So we know how Blue Russian will be finished!  He will be a stand up figure.  That's always good to know before you start a background.  (Here's the final poll, by the way.)
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2013/12/the-cats-out-of-bag.html


So what's the perfect amount of background needed for a standup figure?  I consulted Sue Parsons, who as the owner of West Coast Finishing, knows everything there is to know about the best way to finish stand ups.  She suggested either a dome shape or a squared shape for a standing figure.  She also said about half an inch of space around the figure would be enough from a design perspective (although more background is better than not enough, since too much background can be shortened in the finishing process).  She also told me for a boxed edge shape, it's best to have a square background but otherwise a rectangle would work.  Here's the West Coast Finishing website, in case you are curious about Sue's work.
http://www.westcoastneedlepointfinishing.com/photos

I talked to Leigh about this. She likes the dome shape idea plus little ball feet under the figure and a small braided edge.  Since this is her model, she gets to choose, but it also sounds just right for this small, elegant Russian Santa.

The angel figure in the link below is from one of Nimble Needle's customers.  It shows both a boxed edge and an edge that echoes the shape of the original design.  It also has a small braid around the front and back edges.  No dome shape here, but otherwise this illustrates several of the things Sue and Leigh talked about beautifully.
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2013/12/treetop-angel-finished.html

If you scroll down this page from Chandail's website until you find the Bell Santa series, you will see domed canvases made up into a unique rounded bell shape on the back side.  Again, this isn't quite what Leigh envisioned but it shows the domed arch top very well.
http://www.chandailneedlework.com/ongoing-series.htm

Remember the ball of navy perle cotton I pulled out with all those threads and put back since I didn't think it was the right texture for my Santa?  I got it out again and went to work outlining Santa.  Here is the figure with a line ten threads away from the top of his head and the bottom of his feet.  This is an 18 count canvas so 9 threads are about half an inch.  Going out ten threads enables me to stitch to within one thread of the perle cotton, making it easier to remove my basting outlines later.  Joining up the lines in a rectangle shows me that there is a lot of background on either side and counting down ten threads from his feet makes him look like he's floating on air.  I need to adjust those outlines of perle cotton some.  But it is easy to pull out the basting lines and redo them.

Here he is again, this time with a line across the upper third of the canvas.  This is what I'll use to figure out the dome shape at the top.  By the way, see the knot of blue thread above his head?  That's the center of the canvas top and bottom lines.  Sorry, I haven't gotten around to pulling out the bottom line yet so Blue Russian is floating on air still (too much vodka?).

I printed out a paper copy of the above photo, folded it in half length-wise, drew an arch with a protractor starting at the midline on the right side and then drawing up to the center knot at the top, pulled out my scissors, and got to work cutting!  What you see above is the paper pattern, cut to shape.  I didn't round off the top where you see the knot, just so you could see the middle of the top line.  I did cut off the bottom space so that the bottom of the design is the bottom of his robe.  When I unfold the paper pattern, I'll have a model to use to baste the arch at the top.

Here is the Blue Russian Santa with his domed arch background basted in.  I adjusted the top to be a dome and moved the bottom line to just under the hem of his robe, but I can see I will need to work a bit on the right side as it isn't quite like the smooth curve of the left.  I'll do that today.  I did notice that there are only 7 threads on the diagonal between the tip of Santa's staff and the curved edge of the design, a bit less than I would like, so I may try to fix that as well.  Stay tuned!

By the way, my friend Ann uses architectural stencils for arches and other shapes.  It's a little expensive to stock up on these but Ann has had hers for years and finds them very handy when she needs them.  I'm talking things like these--
http://www.usartsupply.com/ItemDetail.aspx?ItemNo=CTH+T-810&gclid=CKOxh7zauLsCFXHxOgodl0MAFQ

This has been rather long, so let's talk about background stitches and threads next time.  After all, there's no hurry as a lot of folks are still waiting on their Russian Santa canvas and others are just too busy during the holidays to do any stitching.  This is supposed to be a relaxed stitch-a-long, after all.

By the way, all the above will apply to any Russian Santa if you want to do a stand up figure with a domed arch top.  Some folks want ornaments and some will rather have a boxed edge or a more squared off top.   Don't worry!  The backgrounds I will discuss next will work for any finished shape.

Yes, I said backgrounds with an S.  I'm going to present three background stitches--the one I am going to use and two alternatives.  I promised Leigh I'd talk about things that would apply to all the Russian Santas, not just mine.  Stay tuned!

Questions?  Email me at chillyhollow@hotmail.com and I'll get back to you within a day or so.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The SWANS' Gift Exchange

Every year Stephanie's stitching group, the SWANS, exchange Christmas ornaments at a party. Here is this year's fun. 
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/12/boy-oh-boy.html

http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/12/more-treats-from-swan-christmas-party.html

Beautiful, aren't they?  Hope the SWANS keep this tradition going for years to come!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

"Palm Beach Bargello" Pillows

Today is Bargello  plus YouTube day! To celebrate, here's Jonathan Adler talking about what he calls his "Palm Beach Bargello" pillow collection. 
 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CFRbtT6CFdw

If you like either Bargello or quilting, you'll love seeing Becky Botello's Bargello style quilts.  There are two videos, one from 2011 and one from 2010.  The colors and patterns are amazing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yC2c6gDQMII

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMH3CsnCMX8

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Gay Ann's Stocking Stuffers

Because Holiday Madness has struck Chilly Hollow like a freight train running over a penny, I almost missed Gay Ann Roger's posting of her favorite tools which make fine stocking stuffers for stitchers.  Don't be like me!  Head to Gay Ann's website.  The latest will be on the home page.  Click on "Stocking Stuffers" to see the previous recommendations.  Each and every one is a gem that comes highly recommended by one of needlepoint's rock stars.
http://www.gayannrogers.com/index.html

By the way, Gay Ann doesn't sell these but keep an eye on her website. Kate Gaunt will sell the favorites Gay Ann has listed starting Dec. 26 so if you got money for Christmas....

The information on how to order will be on the gayannrogers.com site.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Mystery of the Twisted Skein

This morning Mary Agnes brings us the Mystery of the Twisted Skein.... 
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-mystery-machine.html

Enjoy!  Thanks, MA!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

For the Nutcracker Nuts

Stephanie just posted a series of nutcracker designs stitched by or for a friend of hers who loves nutcrackers.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/12/nuts-for-nutcrackers.html

Sheena also posted some fun Christmas finishing, which includes a cowboy and girl nutcracker set.  That's something you don't see every day!
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/merry-tex-mas-stitched/

I have to admit they seen a little creepy to me--those teeth!--but I know there are many nutcracker collectors.   And occasionally I find a nutcracker canvas that really charms me--like this Peter Ashe nutcracker and mouse king piece.
 http://www.bristlythistle.com/past26.html

Whether you are a nutcracker lover or not, hope you enjoyed the nutcracker collector's designs.  Got a great nutcracker to recommend to fellow collectors?  Just comment below....

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Children's Rockers

You know how you can't find navy slacks or cream colored turtlenecks when you need them? Needle Nicely has found the same thing happens with children-sized rockers, so the shop was thrilled to find three Sudberry rockers to stock in the shop.   These are classics, just waiting for the right stitcher to come along....
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2013/11/have-seat.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Kreinik's Custom Corder

If you or someone you know likes to do their own finishing, Kreinik's new version of their Custom Corder may just be what Santa ordered! 
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2013/12/this-seasons-must-have-tool.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Ada Demonstrates Memory Thread While Ruth Makes Trees UPDATED

Ada Hayden of Eye Candy just wrote a fun article about the use of DMC's memory thread on various Eye Candy designs. It's full of ideas and pretty things to boot! 
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2013/11/things-to-remember-about-memory-thread.html

Ruth Schmuff shows off two styles of beaded fur trees on her Melissa Shirley Christmas Village class.  One style of tree even has "snow"!  (By the way, this is part of her Mystery with a Twist series, which is a mail order class done in small lessons over a long period of time.)
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/11/its-snowing-at-north-pole.html

Check out the red and green roof!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2014/03/as-long-as-its-still-snowing.html

UPDATE:  Fluffy snow can be different, right?
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2014/08/santa-has-arrived.html

UPDATE:  Reindeer and bunnies!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/03/bunnies-and-reindeer-join-fun.html

UPDATE: Christmas Village Mystery with a Twist is done!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/11/this-just-in-for-holidays.html

Thanks for the inspiration, ladies.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Counted Christmas Treat

Ruth Schmuff just announced a new counted canvas design from Kimberly called "Texture and Shine."   The design is small and meant to be used with Vineyard Silk and Vineyard Merino Wool in the same color, so Ruth is kitting it up with a contrasting color of 8x8 18 count canvas and two threads in your favorite color. This and the chart cost only $20. What a deal and just in time for Christmas!  Either gift your stitching buddy or stitch it yourself.  Thanks, Kimberly and Ruth!  I can see your partnership is going to be very good for us all in 2014!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/12/whats-litte-counting-between-friends.html  

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

I'll Never Complain....

I'll never complain about the cost of finishing purses again! 
http://www.bergdorfgoodman.com/Fendi-Peekaboo-Medium-Floral-Tote-Bag/prod92580080/p.prod?ecid=BGB_R_TAP

After a little searching, I found another purse.
http://www.bergdorfgoodman.com/Fendi-Baguette-Floral-Needlepoint-Bag/prod92580088___/p.prod?icid=&searchType=MAIN&rte=%252Fcategory.service%253FNtt%253Dfloral%252Bneedlepoint%252Bbag%2526pageSize%253D30%2526No%253D0%2526refinements%253D&eItemId=prod92580088&cmCat=search+

There are needlepoint slippers at the store as well.  These are a bargain.  I think stitching your own and then having them finished would cost much more.  Of course they'd be nicer....
http://www.bergdorfgoodman.com/Stubbs-and-Wootton-Camouflage-Needlepoint-Smoking-Slipper/prod91950004___/p.prod?icid=&searchType=MAIN&rte=%252Fcategory.service%253FNtt%253Dneedlepoint%2526pageSize%253D30%2526No%253D0%2526refinements%253D&eItemId=prod91950004&cmCat=search+

Many thanks to Barbara for mentioning this on Facebook!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A Special Christmas Friday Finishing

As this is the Friday before Christmas, I wanted to share a special piece of holiday finishing that Diane just got back from Marlene's.  This Melissa Shirley Christmas Pear banner was an Amy Bunger class.  It's amazing what happens when you combine a great design, a great class, a great stitcher and a great finisher.
http://www.dianestakingtimeouttoneedlepoint.com/2013/11/the-christmas-pear-banner.html

The sentiment brings me to tears.
http://summerlouise.blogspot.com/2013/12/mary-engelbreit-ornament-finished.html

The love that has gone into these pieces is amazing.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/12/blog-post_12.html

Merry Christmas Pears to all!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Newly Available Petei Canvases Listed

Debbie Woodard of Painted Pony Designs, the new distributors of Petei, has just posted a list of all the currently available Petei Santa canvases on her Facebook page. I'm taking the liberty of reposting the list here for those who don't have a Facebook account. Your shop can order these for you and request others to be brought back into production by contacting Painted Pony.  I think the Petei Nativity set is also available.  Here you go! 

"Here is a list of Petei Santas that we've re-released through December. Petei fans: get your wish lists to your LNS soon - she heads to market in early January!"

SANTAS
PT-010 Flower Pot 
PT-028 Gnome Santa 
PT-029 Woodsman 
PT-030 Irish 
PT-031 Elf Santa
PT-032 Country
PT-037 Chimney-top 
PT-054 Electric
PT-103 Greek
PT-115 Western
PT-168 LaBefana (Italian Female)
PT-229 Zoo Santa 
PT-271 Traditional ( Coca-Cola) 
PT-313 Nutcracker Santa
PT-314 White
PT-316 Cowboy
PT-317 Sinttrklass 
PT-318 Russian St. Nicholas 
PT-319 Victorian 
PT-320 Father Christmas #1 
PT-321 Saint Nicholas 
PT-322 Kris Kringle 
PT-412 Santa Lucia (female) 
PT-428 Frontier 
PT-445 Scottish 
PT-446 Cossack 
PT-447 Dutch 
PT-450 Victorian Crazy Quilt 
PT-475 Father Christmas #2 
PT-486 English with Wreath 
PT-487 Behind a Bag of Toys 
PT-505 Holding Lamb 
PT-538 North Country 
PT-540 Green Santa 
PT-541 Mexican 
PT-542 Flower
PT-543 Swedish 
PT-560 Peace on Earth
PT-561 Yukon 
PT-563 Workshop 
PT-565 Wizard 
PT-578 Santa Knight 
PT-581 Christmas Past
PT-582 Blue Spruce 
PT-586 Norwegian 
PT-589 Shopping 
PT-590 Bell 
PT-599 Stocking 
PT-606 Checking It Twice 
PT-613 South Pole 
PT-618 Ski 
PT-622 Birdhouse 
PT-628 Long john 
PT-659 Plum Puddin’ 
PT-663 Baking 
PT-668 German 
PT-673 Marionette 
PT-696 Swiss 
PT-697 Gumdrop 
PT-700 Candy cane 
PT-703 Candlelight 
PT-714 Painted Pony 
PT-717 Spool 
PT-729 Chimney Sweep 
PT-743 Train 
PT-745 Hawaiian 
PT-747 Wise Olde Santa 
PT-751 Gone Fishing 
PT-756 Paul Bunyan Santa 
PT-760-D Doggie Santa 
PT-760-K Kitty Santa 
PT-767 Deck the Halls 
PT-772 Ride ‘em Cowboy 
PT-775 Golfing 
PT-785 Snowflake 
PT-786 Squeeze Me Lemon 
PT-791 Blue Moon 
PT-793 Russian Egg Santa 
PT-806 Decorating 
PT-808 Chinese Longevity 
PT-818 Town Crier Santa 
PT-821 Sweets 
PT-830 Professor Santa 
PT-841 Musketeer Santa 
PT-843 Santa on Burro 
PT-844 Yule Log 
PT-847 Jump For Joy

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Be Still My Beating Heart

Why am I excited this morning? Kimberly is designing hand painted canvases!   She is even going to do stitch guides for her designs!  Ruth Schmuff is going to distribute them!  HURRAH!!!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/12/shes-baaaaack.html

Remember her adorable counted canvas work needle case? That was a real beauty!
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/01/kimberly-laying-tool-case-tips.html

But it did involve counting, which is not my favorite thing in the world.  I've watched Kimberly's blog for years now, seeing the pretty things she's drawn and wishing she would do painted canvases.
http://akimberlydesign.blogspot.com/2013/12/finally-secret-is-out.html

My wishes have come true!  Can't wait to see what she comes up with!!!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Needle Nicely Blocks

Mary Agnes does some blocking at her shop, using a very clever idea. I didn't say she enjoyed it, though! 
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-blocking-board.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Susan Portra Class Announcement

East Coast Stitchers Alert!  Susan Portra is coming to Connecticut to teach in April. Here's the scoop so you can mark your calendars.  Taking a class from Susan is one of my greatest stitching wishes.
http://astheneedleturns.com/susan-portra-is-coming/

http://www.susanportra.com/page/page/8750914.htm

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Mary Loves Scotch Tape

Here's why she loves it, and why you should have a roll of tape in your stitching toolbox. 
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/12/embroidery-scotch-tape-a-match-made-in-heaven.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Traveling Threads: Avoid Seeing Them on the Front UPDATED

If you do a lot of needlepoint, eventually you will have a situation where the threads on the back side show through to the front. Joni Stevenson shows you how to hide a traveling thread on the back of a canvas that runs from one spot to the next.  
http://creative-stitch.blogspot.com/2013/11/hiding-travel-threads.html

I have my fingers crossed she'll tackle other situations in which the thread on the back side shows up on the front.

Hurrah!  Joni has added new information, this time on hiding traveling threads in compensated edges.
http://creative-stitch.blogspot.com/2013/12/keep-compensated-edges-neat-and-clean.html

Next, she discusses hiding traveling threads in large cross stitches.
http://creative-stitch.blogspot.com/2014/02/the-large-cross-stitch-and-hiding.html

http://creative-stitch.blogspot.com/2014/06/the-large-cross-stitch-and-hiding.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
@ Copyright 2013 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.