Thursday, February 28, 2013

Guess Who's Finished?

Belleza de Halloween, Manuel Salas' Art From Tapestry Fair

I'm sure morning visitors to Blog were somewhat shellshocked as I worked on the new look for spring. (Spring **is** on the way, right? RIGHT?!)  Colors changed, photos changed, things were rearranged.  But I'm cleaning house and making way for my newest project as my Day of the Dead lady is DONE!  Hurrah!

Belleza's stitch guide is written and now I am moving on to the newest thing.  Details on the stitch guide for Belleza are on the CH Stitch Guides blog.
http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com/2013/02/halloween-beauty.html

What is the newest thing?  Well, you are going to have to wait a little to find out.

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.

Happy Birthday (with Presents!)

Vicky DeAngelis is celebrating her second anniversary blogging with a nice giveaway of many brand new and cool items.  Just leave a comment to enter.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/were-having-a-party/#comment-41746

Never enter contests?  You'll still want to see the prizes as they are all new items:  a roll up and go bead tray from Sundance,  a polar bear magnet to celebrate Kirk and Hamilton's polar bear canvas that will be featured in the next Needlepoint Now, the new Bead Buddies box, Oli Clips (perfect for holding that chart next to the canvas you're stitching), and the Access Commodities project bag.  Even if you don't win, you might want to pick one of these up for your own stitching.

Happy Birthday, Vicky's Blog!

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.

Bargello in Cracker Form

The cracker craze has merged with the Bargello craze!  LizArt has created Bargello crackers.
http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2013/02/bargello-crackers-1-2.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.

SOTM 2012 Finished

Liz Morrow has finished her Stitch of the Month project for 2012 from ANG's website. I wasn't wild about the design but Liz has made the most of it. Wait'll see the background she created for it--spectacular!  Click on the tiny photo to embiggen it to enjoy her work.
http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2013/02/2012-sotm-finished.html

ANG's Stitch of the Month (SOTM) program has started in 2013 with a Bargello piece from Debbie Stiehler.  Click on January 2013 to get started on this one yourself.
http://www.needlepoint.org/Stitch.php

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

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Gone (Stitching) with the Wind

If you adore Scarlet O'Hara and have read Gone with the Wind more than once, you will fall in love with this Labors of Love canvas.
http://enrichedstitch.com/why-miss-scarlet/

Here is the unstitched canvas.  That will help you appreciate what The Enriched Stitch's teacher has done.
http://www.laborsofloveneedlepoint.com/products.php?product=272

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

Stuck on Magnets?

If you love needle magnets and have a nice little collection stuck to the frig, fear not! Ruth Schmuff has lots of ideas for how to display and store them.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/02/what-to-do.html

I've also seen a great tip somewhere (sorry, I can't locate the source right now) on using those metal cookie tins to keep your magnets.  Open the tin and fill the inside with magnets, including the lid.  Close the tin and it looks like you have a pretty display tin on your bookshelf.  Now if I can only find the cookie tin in the kitchen...!

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

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Flat Back Swarkovski Crystal Sequins UPDATED


Needlepoint Tool Time is starting to receive the new tools, accessories and books they specialize in.
http://stitchplaywithneedlepointtooltime.blogspot.com/2013/02/tool-organization.html

Their new stock includes the new Swarkovski flat backed crystals from The Collection that you can attach like sequins. These are called "Swarovski Sew-On Flatback."  Each crystal has a single hole in the middle of the disc. They come in 3mm and 6mm sizes and a variety of colors.   I have a selection already, courtesy of a friend who was at the TNNA show, so I took a photo of the larger ones for you.  There's a packet of the smaller size lying on its side below the two rows of 5mm crystals, just for a size comparison.  I didn't include them as they are much harder to see because of their small size.

As you can see above, the 5mm crystal flat backs come in two shades of red and green, a pink and a purple, a yellow and a blue plus a silver color and something called Crystal AB which is a silver with highlights of pink, gold and blue.  The colors of the 3mm flat back crystals are slightly different.  There are two yellows and two blues, plus one green, the Crystal AB, plus the pink, a slightly darker purple, and one red.  The colors are mostly pastel to medium shades.  There is no navy or deep purple in either size and no oranges and lime greens for the Halloween fans in my selection.

The Collection Designs' website doesn't have these pictured yet which is why I did the not that great photo above.  These can be attached two ways--use a bead on top to hold the crystal sequin in position or use 2-3 small stitches that come up in the middle and go down to the edge (or vice versa).  If you use short stitches to attach your crystal, a matching color or clear beading thread will be less visible.  But of course you might want a stripe of contrasting color to further bring out the crystal's color.
http://www.allaboutstitching.com/embellishments.html

I'm using these already on my latest piece.  They look great!

If you know of other shops that have these in stock, please comment below.  Here's the link to what NP Tool Time has.  They say that there are ten crystals to a package, something I forgot to provide above.
http://www.needlepointtooltime.com/product/3100

UPDATE:  Judy mentioned in the comments that Fusion Beads has a lot of sizes and colors of these flat back crystal sequins for sale.  They have 10mm, 8mm, 7mm, 6mm, 5mm, 4mm, and 3mm crystals but the colors available in each size vary.  They also have the square crystal buttons in 10 and 8 mm.  Fusion Beads sells by the piece, not package.  This may or may not be a better deal for you, depending on exactly what you need.  Thanks for the tip, Judy!
http://www.fusionbeads.com/search#!-swarovski-center-hole-flat%3b%3b-productsearch&ea_c=Swarovski-Elements


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.

Japanese Bead Emboidery

Beading done in the Japanese style looks much different than the beading on needlepoint canvas we are used to. Mary Alice Sinton teaches both Japanese Embroidery and beading and has posted information about the Japanese beading classes she teaches. Even if you aren't interested in trying a class, you will love seeing her projects! The second link is to Blue Bonnet Studio, Mary Alice's shop, with further information about her classes.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/buwjhwdn51dm5i4/Bead%20Embroidery%20Curriculumn.pdf

http://www.bluebonnetstudio.com

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

Monday, February 25, 2013

Remember the Name Ann Hanson UPDATED

Linda fell hard for a canvas by Ann Hanson, the in-house artist for Barbara's Needlepoint, that she saw on Facebook. So she ordered it and got the threads and a brief guide that explains where to use the threads.  Linda has been having great fun working on this classic design using mostly basketweave.  Here's what she said about the piece.
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2013/02/almost-finished.html

UPDATE:  Linda's done!
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2013/03/santa-ornament-finished.html

Barbara's Needlepoint doesn't have a website so if it wasn't for their postings on Facebook, Linda never would have fallen in love and I wouldn't have seen Ann Hanson's work.  Ann does a limited edition Santa canvas for the shop each year.  They are all beautiful but when they are gone, they are GONE.  Ann doesn't repaint them, sadly.  Not to worry, though.  She does other wonderful work for the shop.  If you have a Facebook account, visit Barbara's Needlepoint and browse the photo albums to catch glimpses of her designs.  Roll down to the 2012 photo albums and look for Ann's Available Santas to see the limited edition Santas that haven't sold out yet.  This link may work for those who don't have a FB account. This is the 2013 Santa from Ann Hanson.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=503187233057649&set=a.471227749586931.100490.107558659287177&type=1&theater

This is one of Ann's rabbits.  Perfection!
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=488355084540864&set=a.488354974540875.103166.107558659287177&type=3&theater

Ann's a real talent.  I wish I could see more of her work.

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.

Wash Your Hands

One thing I always do before I start stitching each evening (or after I've stitched for an hour, particularly in the summertime when it is hot) is to wash my hands. This was drilled into me by my godmother who was a needlepointed and my aunt who was a terrific seamstress and master of almost every sewing technique.   However, I never thought about how to wash hands when traveling as I do so little of that until I saw this article by Mary Corbet.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/01/clean-hands-clean-embroidery-traveling.html

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

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Robin and Vicky Go to Market, Camera in Hand

Robin King and Vicky DeAngelis have reported back from the Winter 2013 TNNA trade show in Long Beach, California. This is a great glimpse at what market participants see and do while they are there. Since most of us are regular stitchers, we can't go but Vicky and Robin were kind enough to take us there through their blogs.  I waited until everything was posted and now present it all here for your enjoyment.  Thanks, Vicky!  Thanks, Robin.  Vicky is first.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/first-day-of-market/

http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/market-report/

http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/needlepoint-now-at-market/

http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/a-few-of-my-favorite-things-3/

http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/some-more-of-my-favorite-things/

http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/too-many-canvases-not-enough-time/

http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/so-where-have-i-been/

Now here is Robin's report.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2013/02/tnna-long-beach-2013-recap-part-1.html

http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2013/02/tnna-long-beach-2013-recap-part-2.html

http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2013/02/tnna-long-beach-2013-recap-part-3.html

http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2013/02/tnna-long-beach-2013-recap-part-4.html

Thank you so much for letting us have a glimpse of all the fun, ladies!

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

Gathered Stitch Tutorial

Needle Works has posted a wonderful tutorial on how to gather a thread to make an interesting effect. This works with ribbons, Flair, Wonder Ribbon, Sparkle Rays, Fyre Werks--basically any flat thread.  It will also work with any relatively large thread like Silk N Ivory or Watercolours.
http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2013/02/share-a-stitch-sunday-february-17.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.

A Knotty Reminder

BeStitched reminds us of the various uses of French knots.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/bestitched-needlepoint-is-getting-all-knotted-up/

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

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Finishing Kelly

Kelly Clark's revamped website now has a wonderful finishing section. Need some ideas for that Kelly canvas? Or just want to see great finishing? This is the place!
http://kellyclarkneedlepoint.com/finishing-ideas

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.

Wear It, Carry It

Rittenhouse just wrote about some of the many wearable needlepoint designs they have created and/or finished for their customers.
http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/01/wear-art.html

Somewhat along the same lines, check out these portfolios for carrying your canvases safely as you travel.  Linda says they are from Bags by Barb, owned by Barbara Garrana.
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2013/01/portfolio-for-needlepoint.html

Barb does regular bags as well as portfolios.  Here is more about her courtesy of Janet Perry.
http://www.nuts-about-needlepoint.com/bags-by-barb/

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

Friday, February 22, 2013

Cynthia Thomas' Book Information UPDATED

Cynthia Thomas' new book is now available.  She's already been selling it at the Blue Bonnet Studio retreat in Texas but if you didn't make it there, not to worry.  She is having more printed now and you can get your own copy by emailing Cynthia.  Here are the details on Noses, Roses and Other Fun Stuff.  Expect to learn a lot from Cynthia, whose guides--especially for Melissa Shirley--have entertained and enthralled stitchers for years.
http://hillcountrystitcher.blogspot.com/2013/02/blue-bonnet-studio-and-book.html

IMPORTANT:  Cynthia's zip code is 78025.  Make sure you use the right one when you send her a check.

Not sure if your guide was written by Cynthia?  Here's what she has done for Melissa Shirley.  Busy lady.  And talented!
http://melissashirleydesigns.com/galcol/index.cgi?index=1311779095_10303&col=158

I'm starting to save up for a copy.  There are lots of noses and roses in my stitching future, after all.

UPDATE:  Cynthia will be teaching at Enriched Stitch soon and the shop has posted photos from her book on their blog to showcase all the interesting techniques the book covers.
http://astheneedleturns.com/cynthia-thomas-is-coming-to-town/

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.

Dressing Betsy

You don't really appreciate a good stitch guide until you either start using it yourself, or peek over Stephanie's shoulder as she puts together Betsy Ross (from Melissa Shirley's Wild Women series) using a stitch guide from Amy Bunger.  It's amazing what you get when you add an amazing stitch guide to a good design using a great stitcher!
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/02/hello-miss-ross.html

If you aren't familiar with the Wild Women series, you are in for a treat.  Here is Daphne Goodyear's interpretations.
http://needleartartistry.org/wildwomaninhistory.html

Here is the original set.  There are Wild Men, too.
http://melissashirleydesigns.com/galsearch/?searchstring=wild&searchlist=&Search=Search&dosearch=

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

Time to Go to Target

It's time to head to Target as Donna's found something wonderful there!
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2013/02/new-gadget.html

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

The Kimono Show

Quail Run has posted photographs of a Lee kimono that is a shop model, as well as photos of kimono painted canvases from their shop.  I think the Lee kimono was from a Ruth Dilts class, although I can't be certain.
http://sonorandesertstitching.blogspot.com/2013/01/sunday-sampler-of-kimonos.html

Don't forget the Quail Run published kimono patterns.  They are spectacular!
http://www.quailrundesigns.com/shop/Designs-by-Category/Kimonos.htm

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

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Nimble Needle Newsletter

The Nimble Needle has posted their monthly newsletter online and it is chock full of information, from classes and clubs to new books that are arriving from the TNNA trade show this month.  There are also a lot of photos of customer stitching which are great fun to browse.  Since there is so much I'm posting this here as well as in the Monthly Clubs (Labors of Love pumpkins) and TNNA Winter 2013 tab.  Have fun reading!
http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=45d1a2a693824b7bef0df6f6c&id=ffa55b54ce&e=dc439ad853

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.

Show Offs

Nimble Needle has a slew of items back from the finisher to show off. The shop has a wide range of customers whose various styles are showcased in the photographs.  The customers aren't the show offs, you understand--those canvases of women are the ones strutting their stuff!
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/01/customers-work.html

Nimble Needle is understandably proud of their customers' work.

Speaking of showing off, wait'll you see Ruth's tote bows again.  She can even attach the bow canvas to a tote bag you furnish (given a few restrictions).
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/01/another-bow-tote.html

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

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Long Winter Panel Alert

Alert!  Laura Perin has posted about an error in the directions for her Long Winter Panel in the Long Panel seasonal series.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/02/heads-up-panel-stitchers.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.

Blue Bonnet Studio Needle Arts Retreat 2014

Maryelvis of Blue Bonnet Studio just posted to her Facebook page that their website has been updated with the classes she'll offer at the 2014 Needle Arts Retreat.   This Texas shop does wonderful Japanese Embroidery classes but that isn't all they offer.   There are also classes in goldwork, needlepoint, and much more from many fabulous teachers.  Have fun checking out the offerings, then mark your calendar for February, 2014!
http://www.bluebonnetstudio.com/bbs-time/classes

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

Spiral Eye Needles

If threading needles drives you nuts, you might want to take a look at Spiral Eye Needles. Mary Corbet reviews them here.  There is also a link to the review she did earlier for you to read.  Mary's right--anything that makes your stitching easier is worth owning.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/01/spiral-eye-needles-revisited.html

You can buy Spiral Eye Needles (which are stainless steel so those with nickel allergies can probably use them successfully) at The Needle Lady's website.
https://theneedlelady.com/spiral-eye-side-threading-needles/

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

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

A Peak Inside "That's Not Needlepoint Book 2"

In Robin King's latest report about the TNNA Market last week, she tells us about dede Odgen's new project book.  Since Robin worked on the book diagrams and guides for three of the six projects described, she has a unique perspective and information about the book.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2013/02/thats-not-needlepoint-book-2-by-dede.html

This is the second book in the "That's Not Needlepoint" series.  Here is the first, which I own, and which is set up in a similar way.  It is half stitch guide for several of dede's canvases and half inspiration since so many of the topics and stitches she covers can be used anywhere.
http://www.needleartworks.com/dsgnr/deo/deo20.htm

I reviewed the first book.  You can see that review here.  Do read the comments as well as they reveal even more about the first book's organization.
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2011/06/thats-not-needlepoint.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.

HP Boxes

I am impressed by the beauty of the boxes by HP Designs, so I thought you'd like to see a batch that just arrived at Nimble Needle.  These are made for stitched inserts in the lids and come in a huge range of styles and finishes.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/01/especially-nice.html

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

Monday, February 18, 2013

Making Bullions the Video Way

Have trouble making bullion knots? BeStitched has posted a video showing you how they are done.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/another-knotty-needlepoint-tale-by-paula-schmidt/

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

Customizing Your Stitching

Needlepoint is a very personal art, even though we work from charts or painted designs.   We put so much of ourselves into our needle and thread that the outcomes can be very different, even if the design came from a class or stitch guide.  You'd think that people who took Ruth Schmuff's mystery class using the Eye Candy Garden Party Mod Heart Collage design would have very similar designs at the end.  No way!  The stitch might be the same but the finishing takes two designs in two very different directions.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/01/patterns-on-patterns-on-more-patterns.html

Now let's look at Robin King's stitch guide for Katt Z. Witch from Kelly Clark's Halloweenies series.  One of the customers for Ridgewood Needlepoint stitched this design using Robin's guide.  Look at the design very very carefully.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/01/witch-lovers-this-is-terrific-canvas.html

Now look at Robin's model. Study it.  What is different?  The Ridgewood stitcher turned the cat under the witch's arm into a dog and removed the cat at her feet entirely!  Now Katt Z. Witch is a dog lover!  LOL
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2010/02/katt-z-witch-stitch-guide-are-now.html

Each choice you make with your canvas turns what you are stitching from one of dozens into something totally unique and You.  We needlepointers are creating individuality by adding our personality into our stitching.

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

Sunday, February 17, 2013

A Tisket, A Tasket, What Goes in Your Basket?

If you ever thought you were alone when it comes to going blank on a section of a canvas, you are not alone. Kelly Clark totally understands!
http://kellyclarkneedlepointhandbook.blogspot.com/2013/02/how-to-fill-empty-basket.html

(She also co-authored a CD on how to weave items to dress up your canvas with Amy Bunger.  It's number 7 "The Ins and Outs of Needle Weaving" in Amy's "How'd You Do That?" series.  You can get this many places but Amy's own website has a nice photo of the CD cover.
http://www.amybunger.com/catalog/item/6256888/7437353.htm

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

What Geniuses Do

Have you been wondering if those expensive stitch guides and classes are worth it? Just check out what Tony Minieri can do with two sizes of silk ribbon, then...
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2013/01/doorway-to-springtime.html

...check out Amy Bunger's magic.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/01/why-memphis.html

Now start saving your pennies!

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

Saturday, February 16, 2013

Keep Calm Needle Magnets

A Magnet for Your Needles
As I was cruising eBay this morning, I stumbled across a series of Keep Calm and Carry On needle magnets for sale by Bloomin' Stitches, which I think might be a needleworks shop.  These apparently are exclusives made just for Bloomin' Stitches.  They come in a variety of colors.  I grabbed a photo of a purple one for here and you can see the rose one at this link.  There are three styles of these available.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bloomin-Stitches-Keep-Calm-and-Carry-On-Dark-Pink-Mini-Cameo-Needle-Magnet-/281034125789?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item416ef071dd

If you search eBay for "Keep Calm and Carry On Matte Chrome Frame Needle Magnet" they should all turn up.  These are a Buy It Now auction for $9.99 plus free shipping.

If you are a fan of this series of canvases, then you will want to check these out.  As always, although I sometimes know the seller--the NP World is a small one)--I have no financial interest in this sale.

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.

Stitch of the Month

A second Stitch of the Month design has showed up on the Internet. Many of you are familiar with ANG's Stitch of the Month design series. Now Blue Dogwood Designs has their own free SOTM series.
http://www.bluedogwooddesigns.com/sgom/01-2013-SOM.pdf

If you aren't familiar with ANG's program, here is their project page.  Both work the same way--a new stitch for a section of the design will appear each month during 2013.
http://www.needlepoint.org/Stitch.php

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

Friday, February 15, 2013

News From Here and There

I have a few bits of news from here and there this morning.  First, Ridgewood Needlepoint needs a skein of a discontinued Caron Snow, color Night Blue #04. If you have a skein you can part with, please let Ridgewood know.  Their contact information is on their website.
http://www.ridgewoodneedlepoint.com

Shops are starting to receive orders they placed at the big trade show and posting photos on their blogs, websites and Facebook pages.  I will continue to update the TNNA Winter 2013 tab for a while longer.  Latest items are on top and in bold letters.

I've also updated the CH Stitch Guides blog quite a bit recently.  (Click on the link below or on the magic carpet photo on the right side of the page to be taken to the site.)
http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Today's posting there is a real treat--a FREE stitch guide by Palma Seljan for one of those cute Melissa Shirley cracker canvases.  Palma's versions of the crackers use lots of embellishments without overwhelming the central design.  You are going to love these!

By the way, if small isn't your preference, Melissa has designed larger cracker-style canvases she calls Christmas Borders.  These are made up into mini bolster pillow shapes instead of small crackers.  You can see those on the Melissa Shirley website down at the bottom of this page--
http://melissashirleydesigns.com/gallery/?bsn=1

Yesterday I added information to the CH Stitch Guides blog about a new stitch guide by Enriched Stitch for the Peacock Ginger Jar canvas folks have been raving over (This is also a Melissa Shirley design.)  There is also a posting about two new stitch guides for mermaid canvases.  Something for everyone!

Hope you all enjoy these treats and that Ridgewood finds the Snow color they need.

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.

Is My Butt Too Big Part Two

Rabbit Reflection from dede Odgen's Series
I promised I would post another photo once I finished roughing up the brick stitches on my rabbit in the dede Odgen reflections ornament series that I worked on over Christmas.  I also did some stem stitches along the shoulder line with a strand of gray Wisper to further hide the join between the brick stitches over two on the rabbit's head and the brick stitches over four on its body.

I could have ripped out the larger stitches and redone them but it was more of a challenge to come up with another way of dealing with the problem.  Whether I succeeded or not is up to you.

I do like the fuzzy effect myself.  I have several others in this series that I will stitch as I have time.

Now, back to my Day of the Dead lady!

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

Bird Watchers Alert

Bird watchers will be interested in the new club that Creative Stitches and Gifts is doing with exclusive Melissa Prince ornaments--Birds of America.  You can see the canvases and the models that are complete to date here.  I have posted this on the Monthly Clubs section but because these are a little different, I wanted to call your attention to them here as well.
http://www.creativestitchesandgifts.com/Series.html

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

Thursday, February 14, 2013

Happy Valentine's!

Courtney celebrates Valentine's Day with wonderful needlepoint boxes and bouquets. Wait'll you see the candy boxes!
http://faithofaspider.blogspot.com/2013/02/ode-to-st-valentine.html

Carolyn's friend Lisa has written a love letter to needlepoint as decoration.
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2013/02/13/decorator-lisa-farmers-valentine/

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

The Saints Series

For some reason canvases of saints always catch my eye.  (I'm a Nativity fan, too. Think I was a nun in a previous life?)  Therefore, I was intrigued by the photos posted on Facebook of Joan Eidman's St. Nicholas and Holy St. Nicholas stand up figures but since a lot of Blog readers don't have FB accounts, I didn't mention it here.  But now Joan has posted great photos and closeups of her two saints and revealed a third St. Nicholas, the Snow Saint on her blog.  Go there now and enjoy each detail from the "jewels" to the backgrounds and the sweet faces of her saints.
http://joaneidman.com/st-nicholas/

I believe Joan's canvases are distributed by Dream House Ventures.  Yes, I remembered correctly.
http://joaneidman.com/where-to-buy/

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

I Think That's Tony

Yesterday I saw a really cute rollup design on eBay.  I took a look and thought--that's Tony Minieri!
http://www.joansneedlepoint.com/designs4.htm

What do you think?  LOL

Then this morning Sue was talking about a friend who also designs and looked at her friend's website (second link).
http://sudukc.wordpress.com/2013/01/25/shamrock-stitching/

It's the same person!  Time to mention this on Blog so everyone can have fun exploring all the wonderful designs.  Those rollups look like a lot of fun and there is everything from the Wizard of Oz to seasonal treats like the Easter Bunny and the June Bride.

http://www.joansneedlepoint.com/index.htm


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

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

More College Needlepoint

Want to see more college themed needlepoint?  Stitch by Stitch has a nice little collection shown on their blog.   I had no idea how popular these ornaments are!
http://stitchbystitchlarchmontny.blogspot.com/2013/02/stitch-while-they-study.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.

For the Sampler Fan

Carolyn Hedge Baird takes a close look at a needlepoint sampler from Ewe and Eye. It looks traditional but has very modern needlepoint embellishment.  Enjoy!
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2013/02/03/just-one-sampler-the-faith-honor-and-hope-sampler/

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 Fests

I didn't know there were local Needle Festivals until Susan mentioned it on Facebook's Needlepoint Nation.  There are two scheduled for 2013--New Jersey's is April 27 and Maine's is August 17.  If you live in these areas, put this on your calendar.
http://www.needlefest.com

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

Need Some RickRack?

Painter's Threads has a new product--rickrack!  Painter's Threads are a line of threads dyed in Germany by Tentakulum.
http://yarntree.typepad.com/needlework_news/2013/02/painters-threads-rayon-ric-rac-from-threadnuts.html

Threadnuts is the importer of Painter's Threads so you can pick up samples of Painter's Threads from them.
http://shop.threadnut.com

You can also visit the Painters Threads website.  Please note this is in Europe (France?) so you'll have to pick your language.
http://www.paintersthreads.eu

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

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

AKC Trivia

The American Kennel Club's Library in Manhattan had an exhibit called "Bitches in Stitches", i.e. dogs in needlework some years back. Did anyone see this? I've not been able to find any online information.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324590904578292183965860320.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

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

Let the Good Times Roll

Sue is celebrating Mardi Gras with the best of 'em today.
http://sudukc.wordpress.com/2013/02/12/laissez-les-bons-temps-roule/

I've added the links to Kathy Meyer's website where you can admire her Gaughi dolls, just in case Sue's link goes dead sometime in the future.
http://kathymeyer1.tripod.com/kmdesigns/index.html

http://kathymeyer1.tripod.com/kmdesigns/id26.html

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

Ideas for Stitching Hair

I am always looking for interesting ways to stitch hair. Linda knows this and has posted two new ways to have a similar hairstyle.  Thanks, Linda!  Very neat!
http://splittheneedles.blogspot.com/2013/01/the-devils-in-details.html

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

Hearts and Humbugs UPDATED

Diane's been taking time out to stitch little heart canvases from Associated Talents, using the stitch guides and kits provided by the French Knot in Fort Worth, Texas.  Aren't they perfect little Valentines?
http://dianestakingtimeouttoneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/01/i-heart-you.html

The stitch guides are all by the wildly talented Diana Bosworth.  You can see the entire series that Diana has done to date on the French Knot website.
http://www.thefrenchknot.com/z-hearts.htm

In other spring design news, Ada Hayden shares how her Eye Candy humbugs are made up into the humbug shape.  You will have seen this pattern in Needlepoint Now if you subscribe, so Ada kindly explains how to make this up if you decided to stitch her design.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2013/01/spring-garden-humbug-plus-decision-has.html

Linda of The Stitching Sisters is enjoying the Easter Egg series she has been stitching.  The eggs are from a club from The Needle House called From Russia With Love.  The canvases are designed by Renaissance Designs to be miniature Faberge eggs in needlepoint.  UPDATE:  Elizabeth, who is also stitching these, says the designer is A Collection of Designs.  Sorry for the error!
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2013/01/another-egg-finished.html

http://www.theneedlehouse.com/jm/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=106&Itemid=102

Spring themes in needlepoint are wonderful, especially if you are looking at them during the depths of winter.

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

Freshen Your Seat

Rittenhouse has just posted a reminder of their custom chair seat services.   If you want to take a break from that fancy pillow or picture stitching to create a lasting heirloom for your dining or living room, this is the place.
http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/01/dress-up-your-chairs.html

If you don't subscribe to Needle Pointers, ANG's magazine which comes as part of your ANG membership, you won't have seen the chair that won all the awards at Seminar 2012.  Magnificent!
http://www.needlepoint.org/index.php

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

Monday, February 11, 2013

Coffee, Biscotti and a Spoon

Coffee lovers who stitch will enjoy seeing the new 3-D coffee mug, spoon and biscotti offered by Needleworks in Birmingham, Michigan.  This is an exclusive design for the shop from Kathy Lanza.
http://www.eneedleworks.com

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

Sunday, February 10, 2013

Petei Alert

Jane kindly offers to help fellow Petei fans with the address of someone who is selling her collection of Petei Santas. Please don't trample Jane in the rush for that email address!
http://janew1102.typepad.com/my_weblog/2013/02/petei-santa.html

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

Designer's Desk Newsletter

Designer's Desk has their latest newsletter online.  It's full of shop news and information.
http://library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1102470515590-99/Newsletter+0213.pdf

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

A Winning Combination

I agree with Mary Corbet--a tool that is useful and beautiful is something to be cherished.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/01/beautiful-needlework-tools.html

If this looks like something you'd love to own, visit the JR Crafter Etsy site here.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/JRCrafter

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

Saturday, February 9, 2013

TNNA Postings Continue

Folks are continuing to post about TNNA, especially now that shop owners and designers are back home and unpacked, with time to post photographs and impressions of the show.  So I am still updating the TNNA Winter 2013 tab above.  The latest items are on top and in BOLD lettering.  I am eager to hear if you like this format, with everything in one place.  Or do you prefer postings as they happen as I have done in the past?  I am eager to hear what you think, Dear Reader.  Please add Comments or email me at chilly hollow at hotmail dot com if the Comment section doesn't work for you.

Eventually the TNNA Winter 2013 tab will disappear.  I plan to copy everything there into one article in the main body of Blog so you can find it later if you wish to look something up.  Feedback is appreciated!

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

Quail Run Newsletter Online

Quail Run's latest newsletter is online now.  It is full of customer finished pieces, items brought back from the TNNA Market, and class and trunk show information.  Here's the link--
http://siterepository.s3.amazonaws.com/510/081090_qrn_02newsletter2013.pdf

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

Food for Thought

Occasionally bloggers write articles that aren't really about their stitching so much as they are food for thought.   Jane talks about the high prices Petei Santas are brining on eBay, and...
http://janew1102.typepad.com/my_weblog/2013/01/petei-santas.html

...the Spinster Stitcher is content, while...
http://spinsterstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/01/baby-its-cold-outside.html

...Jean thinks about needlepoint, living alone, and possibilities.  Pour a cup of coffee and spend a little time thinking about these things with me, won't you?
http://lovingstitches.typepad.com/a-needlepoint-journal-abo/2013/01/sliding-doors.html

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

Friday, February 8, 2013

Festival of Broken Needles 2013 UPDATED

This morning we are gathered here to celebrate Hari Kuyo, Japan's Festival of Broken Needles. If we were in Japan, this is what we would be doing.
http://www.designbyaika.com/hari-kuyou-memorial-service-for-needles/

But we are not, so we are going to take our little colorfully wrapped packets of needles to an imaginary Japanese garden.
http://www.flickriver.com/groups/38223935@N00/pool/interesting/

Does everyone have their little packets of needles?  Good.  Go to the link above and pick your favorite image of water, and toss in your packet, thinking grateful thoughts about those tools that have served you so well.  I climbed the stone stairs, stopping occasionally to look at the flowering trees, and put my packet in the Purge Water Dragon pool, where it swirled around a bit, then floated away out of the pool and down the big waterfall to disappear into the stream.

Thank you, needles!

UPDATE:  If you had a ceremony on your site, please let Susan know.
http://plays-with-needles.blogspot.com/2013/02/happy-harikuyo.html

Here's a second update with food for thought.
http://stitchingfoolishness.blogspot.com/2013/02/hari-kuyo.html

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

Winter Color

You know how finishing really changes the look of a piece?  Even the same design worked by the same stitch guide will turn out differently when you turn two finishers loose on it. Exhibit No. One--what Ruth Schmuff did framing Zecca's lotus piece.  This is a perfect jolt of color for the depths of winter!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/02/fun-frames.html

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

The Mathematician in Stitches

Janet Perry just spotted this fascinating use of math to create a design. First, read her explanation of Pascal's Triangle, then head to the original site to enjoy!
http://www.nuts-about-needlepoint.com/mathematics-in-needlepoint-creating-pascals-triangle/

http://curvebank.calstatela.edu/ptriangle/ptriangle.htm

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

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Reminder

Just a reminder, the Japanese Festival of Broken Needles (Hari Kyuo) is tomorrow, February 8th.  I do not practice Shinto, but I do believe in honoring the tools that have served me so well, so I when I discard all my needles before starting a new project with brand new needles, the old go into a little box to await the next Hari Kuyo.  Tomorrow I will take them out, wrap them carefully in aluminum foil for safety's sake, then wrap the little packet in fancy wrapping paper with a bow.  Then they will ceremoniously put away in the trash can, for removal.  I certainly am grateful for all the work they have done over the last twelve months and for all the fun they have brought into my life.

Susan is collecting links and comments about how stitchers are marking this day.
http://plays-with-needles.blogspot.com/2013/02/growing-up-with-tea.html

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

iPhone Cases to Stitch

Needle in a Haystack shows off the new stitchable iPhone cases. Looks like they are going to be available in two sizes (the latest iPhone is larger than the old ones) and there are charts to work from if you don't want to stitch or bead your own design.
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2013/02/new-stitchable-iphone-case-coming.html

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

Remember my Rabbit in a Kimono?

My Rabbit Geisha in Close Up
If you liked the Rabbit Geisha piece I stitched a few years back, you will want to see Jane's companion piece, the Cat in a Kimono.  The stitch guide for this was written for Jane by Tony Minieri. It's magnificent and has her cat's green eyes.
http://janew1102.typepad.com/my_weblog/2013/02/dont-tell-nora.html

These are designs from Brenda Stofft.  The Geisha Rabbit piece is here, and...
http://www.brendastofftdesign.com/#!rabbits-and-hares/cegp

...you can see the unstitched Cat in a Kimono here.  Well done, Jane!
http://www.brendastofftdesign.com/#!this-and-that/c1vha

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

Wednesday, February 6, 2013

Kreinik Golds and Silvers Listed Light to Dark

Prompted by a question from a customer, Kreinik has published a listing of their gold and silvers in order from light to dark. This is going to help me figure out just how close some silvers I'm planning to use for a project are without having to stitch samples. I am so sure you'll want to refer to this often as well that I've adding this link to my listing of Needlepoint Groups and Thread Resources at the bottom of Blog.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2013/02/kreinik-colors-in-shading-order.html

I love Kreinik, don't you?

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

The Stocking of Your Dreams UPDATED

Rittenhouse just posted photographs of some of the custom stockings they have had designed for customers. They aren't the only shop that does this, of course--always check with your local store to see if they offer this service--but the range of designs they've come up with is inspiring.  We all want the stocking of our dreams and sometimes a custom piece is the best route to get exactly what you want.
http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/02/custom-painted-stocking.html

UPDATE:  Here is how the painters at Rittenhouse work.  Fascinating!
http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/02/how-we-paint.html

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

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Is My Butt Too Big?

dede Odgen's Reflections Bunny Ornament
I'm still really busy this morning with TNNA postings but I did want you to see this little dede Odgen ornament I worked on during Christmas when I had my Day of the Dead lady put safely away while we had houseguests.  The photo you see above shows the bunny's head stitched in brick stitches over two threads and the body stitched in brick stitches over four threads.  The contrast between the size of the stitches is too much.

What to do?  Rip out?  I could have ripped out the body and redone the brick stitches over three instead and that probably would have muted the effect.  However, I decided to pull out my bunka brush and fuzz the heck out of the body and head as a way to hiding the size difference.  Aren't familiar with bunka brushes?  Here's a picture.
http://www.nordicneedle.com/6749.html

It works quite well but not in tiny spaces like the bunny's head where I had to be careful not to snag the ears.  For that I used my Boo-Boo stick, which is normally used to get fuzz off a canvas after you rip out a section.  It did a good job on the head although that area isn't as fuzzy.  It's nylon bristles won't fuzz an area the way the metal bristles of the bunka brush will.
http://www.nordicneedle.com/6726.html

Bunny after Fuzzing

By the way, the body is done with two plies of DMC's glow in the dark white floss mixed with a strand of Wisper.  The rabbit does glow a bit except for his ears, which are all Wisper, but not as much as the skein itself glows.  Using only two plies muted the effect but I do like it.  I don't think Glow in the Dark is Halloween only.

I plan to add stem stitches with Wisper along the shoulder join between the head and body but you'll have to wait to see how it all turns out.  I am concentrating on Belleza right now.

The reflection ornament is from a series by dede Odgen.  They aren't on her website but you can see most of the series here by using the search button under the header and looking for "reflections."
http://www.stitchtherapyneedlepoint.com

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

Monday, February 4, 2013

Beading Thread - Which One?

Two Types of Beading Threads
You know how there are ten million kinds and colors and shapes and sizes of beads?  Turns out there are a lot of beading threads, too.  I've been playing with two of them.

On the left in the photo you see a package of Sundance Designs' beading thread.  My color is Dark Cream.  It's really medium cream but who am I to tell Sundance to call their threads "medium" instead of "dark"!?  They have lots of colors of beading thread.  You can see them here, at the bottom of the page. The label points out that colored beading thread may not be colorfast.  If this is an issue for you, stick to white Sundance beading thread.
http://www.sundancedesignsonline.com/catalog.php?LimitRows=all

The Collection also has beading thread.  The packet on the left is theirs.  It is called "Braided Bead Thread" in "crystal" and the label says there is no breaking, fraying or knotting with this thread.  The Collection's website doesn't show a range of colors.  Crystal (which is actually clear and looks like monofilament fishing line) may be the only color they have but I don't know.
http://www.allaboutstitching.com/e-z-beader-and-beading-thread.html

Both seem strong.  I don't think the sharp edges of beads will cut into either easily.  They are constructed differently.  The Collection's braided beading thread is a round thread that is very thin nylon.  Sundance's thread is flatter and frays just a tiny bit at the cut edge, which shows it is made of multiple strands of very thin nylon (or another synthetic).  It is a little difficult to tie a knot at the end of each brand for securing it on the back.  The Collection's nylon line is stiffer to work with.

I prefer Sundance's but that is just because I like the feel of it better.  There is no reason for me to pick one over the other.  Using the "Dark Cream" doesn't change the color of the red and green areas of Belleza's mirror back but the white areas turn a little yellower when I use it there.  If you don't want any change in the look of your beads or the paint of your canvas, you would want to use the "Crystal" from The Collection.  If you are worried about the color running in blocking, then you would need to go with white Sundance beading thread or the crystal from The Collection.

I don't have any price comparison for you as each of my two beading threads were gifts, but there may be a price differential.  I just don't know and Google wasn't much help there today.  Either will do the job, so pick depending on what other needs you have.


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

Sunday, February 3, 2013

TNNA Favorites

Somehow I didn't manage to write an article for Blog this morning. But not to worry, it is easy for me to talk endlessly about needlepoint on the spur of the moment. Since the TNNA wholesale trade show is happening right now, I'll just mention the things that have caught my eye.  This simple little Zecca skull would be fun to embellish the heck out of.
http://www.amybunger.com/catalog/item/8713494/9721897.htm

I'm a sucker for Nativities, so the mini Nativity by Kathy Schenkel has great appeal for me.  The little figures are on pages 4-5 of her updated What's New section.
http://www.kathyschenkel.com/new/0.html

I also love the two new Nativities from Tapestry Fair.  One set is domed and in a modern style.  You can see one piece here on their blog.  This might be an Egyptian Wise Man....  I don't have photos of the other, sorry.  It is an enameled Russian set, each piece inside a circle, or at least that's how I describe the style!
http://tapestryfair.blogspot.com/2013/01/sneak-peek.html

I also like the new Halloweenie characters from Kelly Clark.  There is a witch and (my favorite) the Grimn Reaper.
http://www.kellyclarkneedlepoint.com/whats-new?page=3

I think the Peter Adderley cat and dog canvases from Maggie are going to be big hits.
http://www.maggieco.com/html/drill.php?category=7

I also have become charmed by one of the Melissa Shirley Woodland series, the owl and acorn trees.
http://www.melissashirleydesigns.com/gallery/?index=5984&cat=70

I also like her Winter word scene.  Icy!
http://www.melissashirleydesigns.com/gallery/?index=5983&cat=70

Mindy has a gorgeous ecru piece called Asian Bamboo.  The Lani botanicals are lovely but they aren't whispering my name like Mindy's bamboo is.
http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2013/02/more-pictures-from-market.html

Colleen has also posted what she especially liked--Lani's shoe canvases (these stitched are to die for!) and her koi, new Amanda Lawford complex abstract florals, all of Leigh's Femme Fatales, and two Zecca pet canvases.
http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2013/02/day-1-omg.html

Like her, I thought the Melissa Shirley little vintage style Irish children charming and the peacock jar is to die for. The Debbie Mumm tiny round Halloween ornaments (especially the cat on a fingernail moon) would be great quick fun, and I like John Johannsen's floral heart.  That would be wonderful to dress up in ribbons and wire!
http://www.melissashirleydesigns.com/gallery/?bsn=1

What's caught your eye?  Post it here in the Comments with a link if you have one.

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

New Accessories

Rittenhouse has written about some of the lovely stitching accessories they have in stock. Some of these are new, some are no longer available. If you need new scissors and want something unusual, check out what they have featured here--
http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/01/charming-needlepoint-accessories.html

Don't need accessories for your stitching?  How about a new belt?  This little article has some hints about how to successfully stitch yourself a NP belt, too.
http://horsecountrychic.blogspot.com/2013/01/primer-on-needlepoint-belts.html

Or a new bag?  Everyone needs a killer needlepoint purse!
http://sonorandesertstitching.blogspot.com/2013/01/sunday-sampler-of-needlepoint-purses.html

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

Saturday, February 2, 2013

In Class with Sandy Arthur

The shops that go to the TNNA show can sign up for classes with various well known teachers. Michele of Bristly Thistle took two Sandy Arthur classes and blogged about some of the wonderful things she learned.   This isn't about new merchandise so I am putting it here for your reading pleasure instead of in the TNNA Winter 2013 tab.
http://bristlythistle.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-first-class-at-winter-market.html

http://bristlythistle.blogspot.com/2013/02/ore-fun-with-sandy-arthur.html

If your shop took a class, like Michele they will have a lot of fun new things to show you the next time you are in the shop.

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

And Now For Something Totally Smart Phone Oriented

Ever tried to find something in the iTunes store?  I know from comments on Facebook and the ANG email list that folks trying to find eBooks about needlepoint for their smart phone or iPad can't always turn up things using the search function.  (Hint:  It's not you, it's the crappy key wording system they use.)  Sandy Arthur has added Q codes to her blog so your smart phone that has the Q code reader installed can find her books in the iTunes store just by scanning the codes.
http://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/01/just-quickie-some-asked-about-how-to.html

Thanks, Sandy!  You just made a few folks' life easier.

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

Friday, February 1, 2013

February Newsletters UPDATED

Amy Bunger's shop newsletter is up on her website now.  Don't miss her ideas on how to add expressive eyes to your canvases!
http://www.amybunger.com/f/0213.pdf

She also promises to update her website from the TNNA Market so I've added the link to that area of her site in the TNNA Winter 2013 tab of Blog to help you if you don't want to bookmark it for such a short time.  Just click on TNNA Winter 2013 to keep up with what folks are saying from the trade show.

UPDATE:  Ruth Schmuff has her shop newsletter online as well.  With all the TNNA stuff coming up, I decided to update this listing and put all the newsletter links in one place.
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/needlepoint/downloads/bedeckednewsfeb2013.pdf

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

Halloweenies for Sale

Earlier this week I got a note from someone who has the entire Halloweenies set (house and eight characters plus threads and Amy Bunger stitch guides) for sale.  Here is what she told me:

"I have decided to sell my Halloweenies. What is included is: the house canvas on Evertite stretcher bars, several Xerox copies in color and black and white of the house canvas, the Home Study Halloweenies binder with all of the stitch guide pages in page protectors, 5 Haunted House thread kits, all 8 characters and their thread kits and the surprise from Amy that was in the first kit. Included is the Amy's bag that is big enough to hold the whole thing. The only thing that is stitched is the shingles on the house which is the very first step. I don't know how much it will cost to ship. It weighs about 11 pounds. I am asking $1,000, which is less than half of the original cost. The cost of the Halloweenies does not include shipping. I will charge exactly what it costs me to ship to the purchaser’s location and use UPS so there is a tracking number to keep up with the progress of the Halloweenies to their new home."

Here is the entire set from Amy's website.
http://www.amybunger.com/home_study_previous.html

If you are interested in purchasing my friend's set, send me your email address and I'll forward it to her.  I am at chillyhollow at hotmail dot com.  Thanks!

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

Reminder: Fiber Arts Fiesta Deadline

2011 Best in Show

The Albuquerque Fiber Arts Fiesta 2013 will be held in Albuquerque, New Mexico on May 23-25, 2013. This is a show of great interest to all needleworkers and crafts people. The Call to Entries deadline is March 1st, 2013. You may enter up to six pieces (but only three in one division). The entry fee is $5.00 each. The call to entries link and further information can be found at http://www.fiberartsfiesta.org/2011FiestaEntry.html

Viewer's Choice and Blue Ribbon

Or send a SASE with your division of interest to:
AFAF Fiesta 2013
P. O. Box 16443
Albuquerque, NM 87191-6443.

If you have any questions, please contact Sue Thomas at egasue@hotmail.com or Ellie Ames at eames@q.com.

2011 Viewer's Choice and Judge's Choice

To spark your interest in seeing the show and submitting your own work, in the Embroidery Division in 2011, the Viewer's Choice and Blue ribbon was won by Sue Thomas for her Tiramisu band sampler (designed by Dakota Rogers). A Best of Show and Blue ribbon were awarded to Kurdy Biggs for her original Cats Eye Venus geometric piece.  Lisa Leigh Payne won a Judge's Choice and a blue ribbon for her Tree of the Mother piece.


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