Unavailable for Easter

Stephanie teases us with a show of Easter bunny ornaments from the now retired MCM. They are sooooo cute!  It's too bad that they are no longer made.  eBay is the only spot I find them these days, but search the forgotten back corner of shops. You may still find a few here and there.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/03/here-comes-easter.html

Happy Easter from the Easter Bunnies!

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.

Limited for Christmas

Do you wish you'd stitched something special to mark 1990?  Are you tired of stitching an ornament and discovering all your stitching friends did the same one?  Are you looking for something that is a bit different for this year?  Then check out the ornaments that Needle Nicely designs to celebrate each Christmas.  As far as I know, all the ornaments pictured are still available.  That bead tree, the Santa whose beard is very flyaway and the cherub are all whispering "Stitch me!"  Sigh.
http://www.needlenicely.com/ornaments.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.

New and Fun

This morning I have a round-up of new or fun items I've seen while cruising the World Wide Web each morning.  Randi's stocking some fascinating new frame weight canvases for her shop.   Never heard of frame weights?  Randi explains why a stitcher might want one in their stitching nest very well. The second link is to Randi's shop website, in case you have more questions or want to order.
http://twisinc.blogspot.com/2013/03/more-new-canvases.html

http://www.twisinc.com

I've never seen a Hanukkah pillow before.  What a great idea!
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/03/ruth-is-all-set-for-hanukkah-with-this.html

Threadaholic alert!  Vicky's posted great photos of the new colors of thread from Rainbow Gallery.  There's Silk Lame Braid, Petite Silk Lame Braid, Fyre Werks, and Neon Rays Plus (including their new glow in the dark orange).
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/new-threads-from-rainbow-gallery/

I've never seen earmuff canvases before.  The finishing is superb!  Of course you can make a double sided ornament if you don't want earmuff style finishing, but this is a very different and fun way to make up ornaments.
http://astheneedleturns.com/mini-earmuffs/

By the way, the earmuff canvases are from Linda Lahm Designs.  Don't miss Rudolph in earmuffs!
http://www.whatsthepoint.biz/lindasearmuffpics.htm

On a slightly different topic, Orna Willis is proudly showing off finished projects from her students.  I have to say, things look great!  Nothing makes you see a charted piece with fresh eyes than seeing it stitched, often in different colors from the original.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2013/03/bursting-with-pride.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.

Why I love My Thread Zap 2

Flair and other synthetic threads can drive you nuts by fraying at the ends when you cut them.  To avoid this problem so that I can work with my Flair without pulling out all my hair in frustration, I bought a thread zapper.  The brand I own is featured in this video which shows exactly how it works, although the video doesn't spell out that you have to hold down the button to heat the tip.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mB7BjQx2oW0

There is a slight burning smell and when you first use the thread zapper you may see a wisp of smoke, but this is normal.  It does get very hot so be careful--remove all small children and pets from the area first.  My tip sometimes has come out of the top of the tool when I take it out of the package where it is stored between uses.  I just put it back without a problem.  I do put the thread zapper away with the battery removed, just to be safe.
http://www.needlepointtooltime.com/product/7258

My thread zapper works well with Fyre Werks.   I've been told that the new Easter Grass braid from Kreinik also benefits from a thread zapper.

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.

Stitching Beautifully with Kimberly

Kimberly Servello is an embroiderer with a particular interest in reproduction embroidery. She loves pretty things and not just pretty things to stitch--she loves pretty tools.  I think you are going to enjoy a little visit to Kimberly's blog to see her newest finds.
http://baroqueembellishments.blogspot.com/p/about-me.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.

How to Torture Flair

No, we aren't setting up a torture chamber here in Chilly Hollow. (Although if Mother Nature doesn't cut back on the snowflakes--it is snowing this morning and as I type this it is March 8th!--I may reconsider.)  Suzanne used "tortured" Flair to create smoke for the test tube her Mad Scientist figure is holding.
http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2013/02/dr-no-mad-scientist.html

This character is from A Collection of Designs and is part of an older monthly club called Monster's Ball from a Pocket Full of Stitches.
http://www.pfos.com/OtherClubs/MonstersBall/pg1.HTM

This isn't the only way to use Flair in a manner the manufacturers never intended, by the way.
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2008/09/how-to-use-wired-flair.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.

And She Scores!

The Young Needlepointer has a thing for Henry VIII so she has been collecting the Petei Henry VIII and His Wives canvases for quite a while now. Celebrate her picking up the last of the series and admire all the canvases at her blog.  She even owns Queen Elizabeth 1 and Mary, Queen of Scots!
http://theyoungneedlepointer.blogspot.com/2013/03/one-big-happy-family.html

Other Henry VIII fans may enjoy looking at Amy Bunger's upcoming Home Study, which is a large canvas celebrating all Henry's Queens or want to admire the small portraits Labors of Love just released at the TNNA January Market.
http://www.amybunger.com/f/0113.pdf

http://www.laborsofloveneedlepoint.com/gallery.php?category=67

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 Candy Cane Lover

If you are addicted to stitching candy cane designs, you are going to love this!  It's a Melissa Shirley design, beautifully finished at Marlene's.
http://dianestakingtimeouttoneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/03/melissa-shirley-giant-candy-cane.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.

Canvases for the Hunt Set

Chilly Hollow isn't too far from the center of what is called Hunt Country here in Virginia. Think grand estates, horses, trees and exotic farm animals everywhere, stone fences that run for miles and of course, the extremely wealthy.  This area features fox hunting, horse tack, and of course dogs.  In my limited experience the folks who live Hunt Country are usually conservative needlepointers but there is nothing wrong with that.  Who doesn't love a nice belt in basketweave occasionally?  That's the best meditation I know.
http://horsecountrychic.blogspot.com/2013/03/new-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.

That Special Someone

Ever think about stitching a portrait of the cat or dog or bird or whatever who lives under your roof? Rittenhouse shows how they create painted canvas custom portraits.
http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/03/custom-painted-pet-portraits.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.

Reality TV for the Stitcher

"Will you watch or will you swatch?" is the tagline for this new online knitting contest.
http://thefiberfactor.com

For reality show fans who are stitchers, this is going to be great fun.

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 Ro Show

Queen Anne Stitches has posted photographs of Ro Pace's fabulous geometric designs on their Facebook page.   Look for the album titled "Ro Pace Pieces."
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.550230031677655.1073741825.150442344989761&type=1

You can see more of Ro's work on her website.  She teaches but some of her designs have charts for sale. You'll have to contact her for details.
http://www.designsbyro.com/needlepoint_designs_by_ro/Welcome_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.

Needles

While rummaging around on Sandy Arthur's Duo Designs website, I discovered she sells a little eBook on the history of embroidery needles.
http://duodesignsinc.com/wpsite/a-brief-history-of-needles

Thanks to a mention by Nimble Needles, I also found a great article comparing tapestry needles by The Scarlet Quince (a cross stitch designer).  The comments section is also fascinating.
http://www.scarletquince.com/blog/?p=612&cpage=1#comment-1371

There is always something new to learn about even the simplest things!

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.

Remind You of Anyone?

Remind you of anyone?  [Jane exits, laughing at how we are all pretty much alike, even in Chilly Hollow]
http://stitchingfoolishness.blogspot.com/2013/03/so-much-time-yet-so-few-stitches.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.

Spring Is NOT Here

March 25th in Chilly Hollow

Sadly, Winter is still reigning in Chilly Hollow. Above is a photo I took of my front yard just before 7 a.m. today. SIGH.

I've been busy, trying to get a top secret project stitched for the Dallas trade show, shoveling snow off the porch and of course trying to get ready for another power outage.  Rinky Dink electric coop is not well prepared for even a slight wind! 

But the dogs' water bowls are freshly refilled, there have been quite a few new articles added to the CH Stitch Guides blog (click on the magic carpet photo on the right to travel there and back again), and one of Loretta Spear's mystery pieces is up for sale on eBay.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/LORETTA-SPEARS-MYSTERY-PROJECT-2-WINTER-REFLECTIONS-/171010789154?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item27d1098f22

Despite the snowy start to the day, all's right in my world!

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.

Easter in Needlepoint

Are you in the mood for Easter themed canvases? Enriched Stitch has posted some of their favorite models for the holiday plus a series of canvases with Easter, eggs, rabbits, chicks and more.
http://astheneedleturns.com/a-few-of-my-favorite-easter-pieces/

http://astheneedleturns.com/here-comes-peter-cottontail/

Are you really into rabbit canvases?
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2013/03/20/easter-needlepoint-easter-stand-up-rabbits/

http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/03/blog-post_23.html

How about eggs and carrots?
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2013/03/24/easter-needlepoint-easter-stand-ups-eggs-and-some-carrots/

Carolyn Hedge Baird has Easter basket inspiration. Suddenly I feel like Spring is here!
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2013/03/17/easter-needlepoint-easter-baskets/

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.

Skype It with Enriched Stitch

Enriched Stitch is getting quite a lot of Skype practice under their belt as they offer both classes and shop tours via this Internet communication program.  Here is the Maggie peacock canvas they are teaching.
http://astheneedleturns.com/maggie-by-aggie/

They also allow folks to tour the store long distance via Skype.  What fun!
http://astheneedleturns.com/skype-virtual-tour/

Skype essentially is a phone and video phone service that for a small fee each month allows you to make phone and video calls.  Both ends of the video call need the software plus a microphone and camera in the computer but you can make regular phone calls via the Internet with Skype without the recipient having the service (although I don't have good luck making free 1-800 number calls via Skype).  You just need a microphone in your computer or headset for that.

Isn't it great being a 21st Century stitcher?!

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.

Needed: The Perfect Tree UPDATED

Diane's looking for the perfect artificial tree to display her ornaments. Got any ideas?  What do you use?
http://dianestakingtimeouttoneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/03/finding-perfect-ornament-tree.html

UPDATE:  More trees for ornaments are in this wonderful Easter posting by Carolyn Hedge Baird.
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2013/03/27/easter-needlepoint-easter-trees-and-easter-ornaments/

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.

Brief Book Reviews

If you are a book collector or just want to read brief descriptions of the newest (and a few older) needlepoint books, visit Quail Run's blog for cover photos and a bit about the books they have in stock.
http://sonorandesertstitching.blogspot.com/2013/03/sunday-sampler-of-needlepoint-books.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.

New Kits from Needlepoint.com

Needlepoint.com has updated their website page for the kits they offer.  The shop is in Raleigh, NC which is only 4-5 hours from the North Carolina beaches, so there are lots of wonderful summery designs available.  Lots of their kits are on larger 10 or 12 count and come with wool.  These are meant to be tent stitched.  However, not everything is a throwback design.  They also offer canvases with stitch guides and plenty of fancy threads and stitches.  Your choice!
http://www.needlepoint.com/kits/needlepoint-university.html

The above link has changed.  Thanks for letting me know, Jen!
http://www.needlepoint.com/kits/needlepoint-kits.html

Pick whatever seems perfect for your summer vacation and everything will arrive, ready to start stitching without delay.

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.

Save the Walker Bags from a Horrible Fate!

Tisha at NP Tool Time made me laugh this morning since her new order of Ashland Sky bags has arrived and is forcing the Walker bags into a box.  She hopes you'll pick up some of these great project bags so she has a little more inventory room soon.  By the way, she's right about how great the Ashland Sky bags are.  I have a red set that Leigh Designs sent me (they are the distributors of the Ashland Sky bags) that I use all the time.  The big one is where Belleza slept during Christmas when she had to be put up while I had house guests.  The medium size is where I keep my current project threads while the small one is where I keep the beads, sequins and special items like ribbons and Hot Wire for my current project.  Everyone will organize differently but these sturdy bags are wonderful protection and with very sturdy zippers, I think they will last far longer than the two years I've used mine.  Thanks, Leigh!

Good luck with keeping the inventory corralled, Tisha!

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 Are At It Again (Spring Edition)

Stephanie's SWAN group in Texas has been meeting again. Stephanie posted photos of their current projects on her blog for our enjoyment.  For me the star of the show is the newly made up Melissa Shirley double-sided Easter rabbit stand up.  Wait'll you see her!
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/02/beautiful-bunnies-and-other-cute.html

But there are other darling pieces that are stitched or underway.  Want to see one of those fabulous but now unavailable MCM rabbits?  Want to drool over a nutcracker Boy Scout in uniform?  Or see the cutest 3-D Easter house in Texas?  All of this is above, thanks to Steph's quick camera.

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's Your Hair Like?

Melissa Shirley Mermaid

Linda's busy trying to create the perfect bangs.
http://splittheneedles.blogspot.com/2013/02/thank-your-hairdresser.html

Personally, I don't like bangs.  They look terrible on me (and I think Michelle Obama's too perfect hair looks like a wig) but I do like curls.  My current favorite stitched hair is the mess of overdyed wool bullions on the little Melissa Shirley mermaid above.

What is your favorite stitched hair style?

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's Your Sky Like?

Bargello Background on Night Rider

Steph is thinking about sky stitches this morning. She's got quite a few on display, too.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/02/sky-stitches.html

What you see above is MY favorite sky stitch--a Bargello stitch done in one ply of sage green silk mixed with a strand of Glints from Bijoux.  The canvas is Night Rider from the Old Crows series by Leigh Designs.  What's your favorite?

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.

Visiting Shops in California

If you are curious about the shop owners you have met online or want to know a bit about California needlepoint shops, here's the place to explore.  There are photos and brief descriptions of many of the shops you want to visit, plus links to the websites.  Note that Regal Rabbit closed when the owner retired and relocated but their website store is still active. You just can't visit in person any more.  Status Thimble has also closed. (Sob!)
http://www.stitchknots.com/who.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.

Cooper Oaks Goes Plastic

Until I saw a posting by Barbi Sherman of Canvases By Barbi on Facebook, I had no idea that Cooper Oaks sells acrylic boxes and frames for needlepoint. There's a huge range of styles, from towel holders to trivets to frames and trays.
http://www.cooperoaksdesign.com/CooperOakS-COL_Gallery.html

Barbi uses the clip board style insert for her frameweight canvases.  She trims the canvas close and uses a sticky backing felt to hide the underside since the clipboard piece is clear.  Sadly, there are no photos of her pieces inserted in the clipboard but you can see the unstitched canvases here.
http://www.canvasartbybarbi.com/Blank.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.

Melita Goes to Woodlawn

Melita reports back on her weekend trip to the Woodlawn exhibit.
http://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2013/03/19/woodlawn-roadtrip-2013/

Melita was very taken with Catherine Jordan's entries.  I don't have time to see if any are on her website but you will enjoy browsing whether they are there or not.
http://www.catherinesdesigns.net

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.

Bookmark These Blogs UPDATED

I know a lot of folks use the Blog list below to keep up with various needlepoint blogs.   However, some shop blogs are invisible to Blog because the website software that operates them is apparently incompatible with RSS feeds.  Although these blogs are listed on Blog's list, they are never updated.

Please bookmark these two so you can visit them periodically.
http://astheneedleturns.com/happy-birthday-to-us/

http://www.theneedlebug.com/blog2/2013/03/i-need-a-t-shirt/

You may have read that Google's Reader software (which powers Blog's list) is being dropped in July. I have no idea how this will effect the list.  It may still work.  It may not.  We will have to wait and see.

UPDATE:  I found another website with an embedded blog.  Please bookmark this one, too.
http://www.nimblefingerstx.com/NimblefingersTx.com/Just_Arrived/Just_Arrived.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.

Stitcherie's Spring/Summer Challenge

Sheena James is one of the two challenge masters (Ruth Schmuff is the other) for Stitcherie's spring-summer challenge canvas. Stitcherie members choose Zecca's Camouflage Birds canvas. The way it works is you get the canvas and then each month or so you get stitches or threads from the Challenge Masters that you have to use somewhere on the design.
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/springsummer-stitcherie-challenge/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+SheenasStitches+%28Sheena%27s+Stitches%29

Then you post progress photos on Stitcherie. It's great fun as no two folks do their canvas the same way.  Stitches go in different places or look totally different because different threads were used.
http://stitcherie.ning.com

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.

Securing Silk Ribbon on Your Needle

Quail Run's latest shop newsletter is now available online. Besides the wonderful customer gallery, photos of new items from the last trade show, and information on their Colors of Praise trunk show and an upcoming Margaret Bendig class, there is great information on how to lock your silk ribbon on your needle so you don't have to keep re-threading it as you stitch.
http://siterepository.s3.amazonaws.com/510/081103_qrn_03newsletter.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.

Visiting Aristeia

Staff from Chaparral Needlepoint in Texas recently visited Aristeia in California during the TNNA Winter 2013 trade show. They took plenty of photographs of the inside of the shop and of the wonderful models on display there.   The photos are posted on Needlepointing in Your Nest's Facebook page.  If you have an account, you can see the photos here.  If you don't, I'm not sure if these will be viewable.  Sorry!
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.531976276846996.121233.141607859217175&type=1

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.

Laura Gives Eggs for Easter

Anyone who loves pastel Easter eggs needs to clink on the link below to visit Laura Perin's blog. She's premiering a new design--four individual Easter eggs, each different and each lovely.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/03/an-egg-cellent-new-design.html

I just kept thinking how wonderful they would be in gold and black and ecru on red canvas.  Is my Easter actually Christmas wearing bunny ears?

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 House Portraits

One of the most personal and popular types of custom canvases (besides pet portraits) is the house portrait.   Ridgewood shows off one of their custom house designs with a reminder their house artist can do your favorite building in needlepoint if you wish.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/02/we-now-have-custom-painter-than-will.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.

Painted Canvases for St. Paddy's Day

St. Patrick's Day is today! Alex Paras has a nice selection of Irish-themed canvases for your shopping pleasure.
http://store.apneedlearts.com/stpatricksday.html

So does Melissa Shirley's website.
http://melissashirleydesigns.com/gallery/?index=5997&cat=70

And EyeCandy has a charming Irish cat.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2013/03/happy-st-patricks-day.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.

Painless Pearl Cotton

Whether you call it perle cotton like I do or pearl cotton like DMC does, skeins of their thread can be a challenge to untangle.  So DMC has posted tips on how to attain tangle free lengths of this thread.
http://dmc-threads.com/cutting-perfect-lengths-pearl-cotton/

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.

Philly in Stitches

Rittenhouse, which is based in Philadelphia, has quite a few canvases that celebrate the city. If you are a history or movie buff, or just have a special place in your heart for the town, you will enjoy a little browse.
http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/02/the-city-of-brotherly-love.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.

Twinkle Thread UPDATED

I have heard a new thread called Twinkle, a mix of metallic and rayon, is now available. Here is a photo of the colors available plus a little bit about it.  The shop says it is between Kreinik's #8 and #12 in size and works well on 18 count.  Personally, I find both #8 and #12 braid a little too fat for some stitches on 18 count, so proceed with caution.  I'd love to hear about it in the Comments (or email me at chillyhollow@hotmail.com) if you have seen or stitched with Twinkle.
http://astheneedleturns.com/twinkle-twinkle-little-star/

UPDATE:  Enriched Stitch has come through with a closeup photo and more information on Twinkle. Thank you!
http://astheneedleturns.com/more-on-twinkles/

Gone Stitching distributes Twinkle and has added some photos to their shop website.
http://www.gonestitching.net/index.php/twinkle.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 Background Touch

I like to stitch my backgrounds first, or nearly first, when I work on a painted canvas. I think they are so important that I like to have them out of the way so that the rest of the canvas rests lightly on what stitches and threads I've chosen. Their importance is emphasized by this posting at the Stitching Up a Storm in Alamo City blog.  What to see what Diana Bosworth did for other backgrounds in her Petei Santa stitch guides?  Visit the second link.
http://janew1102.typepad.com/my_weblog/2013/02/english-pearly-santa.html

http://www.thefrenchknot.com/x-petei.htm

Many of the backgrounds are tent stitched but many aren't, even though there isn't much background behind the Santas to work with.  Diana's a genius, isn't she?

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.

Blog Updates

Here's a quick housekeeping update for Blog:  I've added quite a few new postings to the Chilly Hollow Stitch Guides blog (click on the magic carpet photo on the right side of the page to visit there and return back here when you are ready), and also added a few new links to the TNNA WINTER 2013 tab at the top of this page.  I have also added a new tab called TNNA JUNE 2013 as there is already a new posting about new painted canvases that will premiere at that trade show in Columbus.  I'm busy stitching away on a top secret project for the Dallas trade show in April as are many stitch guide writers and model stitches and have a June top secret project waiting in the wings.  Stay tuned, folks!  There are new and wonderful things appearing all the time.

We are very lucky needlepointers to live now during a NP Renaissance.

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 New Consignment Shop

The Miami  shop Needlepoint in Paradise has opened a consignment shop online.  I don't know how it works if you are a seller. You will have to contact the shop for that.  Pay careful attention to the description of the bargains so you know exactly what you are getting.  These are older canvases that are being released into the wild by their owners to find a new home.
http://www.almostparadiseneedlepoint.com/almostparadise.rhtml

(Whoops!  They are in Naples, FL.  Thanks for the help, NN!) 

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 Silk History Lesson

Silk lovers are going to enjoy Mary Corbet's brief history of the Bedding Brothers Silk Company through all its evolution in the early part of the 20th Century.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/02/vintage-silk-embroidery-thread-tags-tips.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.

What Canvas Stops You In Your Tracks?

This posting by Nimble Needle got me thinking: Which painted canvas or counted canvaswork design stops you in your tracks?  Doesn't matter if you will ever stitch it, what matters is it is something that you consider a classic.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/03/girlie-things.html

Here are mine.  Predictably they all have Asian themes....

Peter Ashe's Japanese Tea Garden
http://theneedlepointer.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=141&products_id=13632

Lee's Moon Goddess
http://www.a-z-needlepoint.com/products/lee-wh1162.shtml

Japanese Lady with Flowing Robe
This traditional design is available with a variety of kimono patterns from both Lee and Sophia.
http://www.needlepointcouture.com/japanese-lady-needlepoint-canvas.html

How about you?  What are your classics?

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.

Glimpses of ANG Classes

The American Needlepoint Guild (ANG) is choosing classes for their 2014 Seminar, which will be in Chicago. They don't release the class listings this far ahead but a few teachers are talking about what they will teach if enough people sign up. Here are Orna Willis' offerings.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2013/03/chicago-classes-here-i-come.html

Here is Sandy Arthur's class for Chicago, a followup to her popular "To the Beach" class.
http://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/03/ang-chicago-seminar-2014-great-news.html

Sandy is also going to teach for ANG in 2013.  Most ANG members have seen her classes but she posted some fun photos on her blog.
http://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/03/ang-seminar-2013-anaheim-ca-it-just_10.html

Hope everyone who gets to go to these events has a blast!

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.

Exclusive Magnets for Collectors

If you love using pairs of magnets clipped to your canvas top and bottom to keep your needles under control, you will enjoy seeing the new Mag Friends exclusive magnets from Accoutrement Designs. These are produced for one shop and one shop only to sell.  So if you fall for that daisy magnet with its matching scissors fob, you will have to contact Bloomin' Stitches to purchase one.
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2013/03/exclusives-update.html

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

A Little Woodlawn Background

Want a little background on the Woodlawn show from a native needlepointer?  Click here--
http://livinginvirginia.wordpress.com/woodlawn-needlework-show/

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.

Panic for Anaheim '13

ANG hasn't posted their 2013 Seminar classes on their website yet, so non-members haven't seen the class listings because only ANG members get Needle Pointers magazine.  The issue that just arrived describes all the classes to the membership so folks can sign up for the classes they want to take in Anaheim.  However, non-members can get a glimpse of two classes on Sandy Arthur's blog where she relates the trials and tribulations of getting ready.  Bet you thought all the class supplies just magically appeared! I know I did.
http://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/03/ang-seminar-2013-anaheim-ca-it-just.html

Let's join hands and wish really really hard that none of the teachers have further problems getting their class materials ready!

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.

Cracker Club Alert UPDATED

Summer Truswell has a new publication out--how to finish Christmas crackers.  Of course this will work nicely for Halloween, Easter, Valentine, or Fourth of July cracker ornaments, too!  This is available for the Kindle but I think Summer can send you a PDF version if you are not a Kindle user and she may be able to do one for iPads as well.  Just ask in the Comments section.
http://summerlouise.blogspot.com/2013/02/christmas-cracker-design-finishing.html

UPDATE:  Yes, PDF versions are also available.
http://summerlouise.blogspot.com/2013/04/christmas-cracker-additional-formats.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.

Woodlawn 2013 in Silk Ribbons

River Silks went to Woodlawn and reported back on their favorites that used silk ribbon.
http://www.riversilks.com/wordpress/?p=1344

River Silks mades gorgeous silk ribbons in many widths for stitching.  I use only River Silks ribbon if I have a choice.  If you haven't seen their website, here it is.  Click on Gallery and explore what ribbons can do.
http://www.riversilks.com

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.

Need Paternayan?

A knitting friend who occasionally dabbles in needlepoint was out cruising the needlework shops in search of a knitting book this week when she came across a nice little selection of the "old" Paternayan at one of her hangouts.  She says the back room, which she describes as full of threads and needlework supplies, has a treasure trove of Pateryanay in lots of colors and shades--but no black or white. She thinks it is the style with three equal plies but she isn't certain.

She immediately realized this might be a great find for a needlepointer halfway through a project, since the "new" Paternayan has limited colors available so far while they gear up production.  If you are desperate for certain colors, you need to get in touch with Charlene Hatfield at Stitch in Time in Howell, Michigan.  (Note:  This isn't the only shop by this name in the area, so be sure you use the contract information on their website or email the shop at charlenehatfield@sbcglobal.net.)
http://www.stitchintimehowell.com/Welcome.html

My friend notes, "It is probably of limited interest to the other readers of Blog that Charlene owns a beautiful 13 yo male long haired dachshund, and the store carries about 700 knitting books. "

Please don't trample the dachshund as you rush toward the hoard of Paternayan in the back room.  I bet a few folks will stop and look at the knitting books, too.

Thanks, Marj!  We needlepointers appreciate it.

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.

Meet Doug Kreinik

Ever wonder who's behind the Kreinik metallics we use so much? Wonder no more! Mr. X Stitch has published a a brief interview with Doug Kreinik.
http://www.mrxstitch.com/2013/01/14/kreinik-calling-meet-doug-kreinik/

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.

Ruth Starts Another Mystery UPDATED

Ruth Schmuff is starting a new mystery class based on the Egyptian cat goddess Bastet design from Tapestry Fair.  This mystery class is described here.  The class will run from mid-February through April.
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/needlepoint/--a-24.asp

Wait'll you see the backgrounds Ruth came up with!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/03/hieroglyphics.html

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/04/beaded-messages.html

But that's not enough for Ruth, who obviously wants to stitch night and day on mystery pieces.  She is also starting a second class on a brand new canvas from Melissa Shirley--Christmas Village.  This piece will be done over a much longer time frame starting next May with Ruth mailing lessons to the class participants at irregular intervals.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/02/its-christmas-mystery-with-twist.html

Here is Christmas Village all finished, by the way.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2017/11/its-snowing-at-north-pole.html

You can always sign up for Ruth's previous mystery classes.  The only difference is that you know how it all turned out.  Ruth posts photos of her finished models once the finishers get them made up on her blog.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/p/bedecked-and-beadazzled-mysteries.html

UPDATE:  I write these articles weeks ahead of time.  By the time this one published, Ruth had announced the canvas that will be the center of her summer mystery class.  It's a mermaid with fabulous green eyes, a tiny seahorse companion, and dark flowing locks from a new designer, Sandra Vargas.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/03/aquamarine.html

UPDATE #2:  Ruth has two framed Bastets for us to admire.  I love the petal frame!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/07/the-goddess-returns.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.

Mysteries and Old Friends

Laura Perin has started another mystery piece, free to all her fans.   It is called February Valentine.  Here's part one.  I'll update this article as she releases each new section each Monday.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/02/mini-mystery-monday-february-valentine.html

http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/02/mini-mystery-monday-february-pt-2.html

She has also been busy re-releasing older designs.  Here are two quilt-inspired pieces.  Your shop can order these for you or you can buy directly from Laura's website.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/01/an-old-favorite-shines-again.html

http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/02/a-delectable-update.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.

Woodlawn 2013 Best in Show Winner

Thanks to Maggie who is one of Nelly's Needlers (they are the stitching group that volunteers at the needlework show), we have a sneak peak at the Best in Show winner at Woodlawn this year.
http://maggiebsmocks.typepad.com/smocking/2013/03/sneak-peek-at-woodlawn-2013-best-in-show.html

Of course you have to really squint and use your imagination, but that's not Maggie's fault!
http://www.mountvernonvoice.com

Many congratulations to Joyce Houck and many thanks to Maggie and her friends for all they do to make this the highlight of my stitching 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.

Doing Anything in May?

Vicky DeAngelis just announced a class in La Jolla, CA with Barbara Elmore on how to use Sparkles, the stiff tubular material from Sundance Designs.  The class is being sponsored by the San Diego Chapter of ANG.  You can see all the details on Vicky's blog and on the SDANG website.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/everything-you-wanted-to-know-about-sparkles/

http://sdang.org/workshops/index1.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.

Needlepoint and Woodworking

Rittenhouse is using a custom woodworker to design the right ottoman, box or tray for their customers. The fabulous results can be seen here.
http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/02/custom-woodworking.html

Of course custom woodworking won't be cheap.  You might want to look for a pre-made box or tray that is the right size for the canvas you want to use. Everyone has heard of Sudberry's products but did you know Patt and Lee Designs has wood products, too?
http://pattandleedesigns.com/woodworking_products

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.

Doing Anything Tomorrow?

Enriched Stitch in Connecticut is teaching a turkeywork class tomorrow. You can participate via Skype if you don't live near the shop.  Here are the details.
http://astheneedleturns.com/turkey-work-workshop/

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.

Woodlawn 2013 Winners Listed

Woodlawn Plantation has announced the major ribbon winners at this year's exhibit, the 50th.  Congratulations!
http://www.woodlawnpopeleighey.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Award-Winners-UPDATED.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.

Preview of March/April Needlepoint Now

Needlepoint Now magazine has started doing an email preview of their upcoming issues. You can see the information about the March/April 2013 here.
http://needlepointnow.createsend5.com/t/ViewEmail/j/7EAAB10978F49D8C/D89D82459BF7DCF144D0DD5392A9C75A

You can find more about the magazine at their website, but even if you don't subscribe, it is a worthwhile place to visit.  The "Project Information" tab has videos to help you master specialty stitches.  They are adding more videos all the time, so bookmark this and visit the next time you need help with a stitch.
http://www.needlepointnow.com

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 Embroidery CD

The Japanese Embroidery Center just announced on Facebook that a CD about their 2007 exhibit of Japanese Embroidery in the UK is available at the JE website. I don't know if this is a new product or something they are just mentioning, but fans of traditional Japanese Embroidery will want to check it out.
http://japaneseembroidery.com/m/index.php/publications-43/cd-rom/cd-w-e-2007.html#.URpXI6XhD9N

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

Winter Storm Warning

For those not glued to the Weather Channel watching the latest winter storm, Chilly Hollow got about 10-12 inches of snow Tuesday-Wednesday and we lost power. No heat, lights, refrigerator, running water, computer, etc. We survived but I am terribly behind in my emails. I think I've found all Comments and Trunks Show/Sales updates. Now I plan to work on the backlog of messages. Please be patient. I have a lot to catch up on!

By the way, I plan to leave the TNNA Winter 2013 tab in place at the top of Blog just under the header.  I thought about moving it to an article but then you'd have to search to find it.  Once another big trade show appears, I will move Winter 2013 to an article but for now--even though I am no longer updating it--it will be one of the main tabs here and have its own page.

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 Peak Inside

Pocket Full of Stitches has posted photographs of brand new canvases and books they've received on their blog.  Because they show pages from the books, I am putting this link here instead of in the TNNA Winter 2013 tab.  Anyone who thinks they might want to add either June McKnight's Colorful Backgrounds or Julia Snyder's Great Layers for Needlepoint to their collection can get some idea of what the books are like from this.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2013/02/27-new-canvases-2-books.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.

Second Only to Kaffe Fassett

Want to know why I think Orna Willis is second only to the amazing Kaffe Fassett as a master of color?
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/02/energize-your-creativity.html

I can't wait to compare Ruth's version of a photo to the finished one Cleta did.

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

Nashville Market 2013

The TNNA trade show last February is just one of a series held each year. The Nashville show is mostly counted designs, particularly cross stitch, but there are some wonderful counted canvaswork designers who show there.  Quail Run has picked up a lot of goodies for you to count.  There's a new nylon thread, too.  It's called Twinkle.  Anyone seen it?
http://sonorandesertstitching.blogspot.com/2013/03/sunday-sampler-of-charted-needlepoint.html

Speaking of new things, want to see the new scissors fobs from Papriki Pi that Needle Works has in stock?
http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2013/03/beautiful-new-scissor-fobs.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.

Carrying Clara Wells

BeStitched has the Clara Wells trunk show at their shop and are showcasing the clean looking tote bags the designer offers on their blog.  They say they have more photos on their Facebook page, which is BeStitched Needlepoint (second link) but I don't see them there yet.
http://bestitchedneedlepoint.com/clara-wells-needlepoint-tote-bags/

https://www.facebook.com/BeStitchedNeedlepoint/photos_stream

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 Carpet to Remember

Ridgewood just posted several photographs of a customer's lovely rug, stitched over several years and beautifully stitched, too. You can admire it at the Ridgewood blog.  I'm sorry I can't identify the designer but I think the teapots are Majolica and Wedgewood styles.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/02/look-at-this-beautiful-carpet.html

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

Woodlawn's Snow Policy

Folks who are wondering if the Woodlawn Plantation needlework exhibit will be open when it starts showing here this week will need to check whether the Fairfax County Virginia schools are open or not.  Woodlawn will not be open if the schools are closed or are opening late due to snow.
http://maggiebsmocks.typepad.com/smocking/2013/03/woodlawn-needlework-show-2013-snow-policy.html

http://www.fcps.edu/news/emerg.shtml

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.

Prepare to Be Shocked

Prepare to be shocked. If you are a stitcher or finisher in the New Orleans area, keep an eye out. Sounds like a fellow stitcher took these.
http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2013/03/finding-silver-lining.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.

Parade of Finishing

I have a collection of wonderful finishing for you this morning.   First, the cutest belt EVER.
http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2013/02/a-beautiful-and-speedy-finish.html

The owner of Chapel Hill Needlepoint does a series of ornaments for her son each year.  Here is the 2012 collection.
http://chapelhillneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/02/2012-ornament-round-up.html

Beth's Santa has his beard.
http://bethsneedleworkstash.blogspot.com/2013/02/santas-got-his-beard.html

And his beads!
http://bethsneedleworkstash.blogspot.com/2013/02/santa-heart-finished.html

EyeCandy has posted photos of finished pieces that customers have shared.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2013/02/this-n-that.html

Kimberly has added a doodle to the back of a Kelly Clark design.  Isn't that lovely?!
http://akimberlydesign.blogspot.com/2013/02/tada.html

Enriched Stitch has finished their fabulous peacock jar (Melissa Shirley).  There will be a class and stitch guide, by the way.
http://enrichedstitch.com/peacock-ginger-jar-finished/

That's enough of a parade for today.  Amazing work, folks!

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.

Adding to the Story

A group of folks on Alderney Island have decided to add the missing ending to the Bayeux Tapestry by stitching the coronation of William the Conquerer in a reproduction style.   There is a link to the website for the project as well as a BBC video of it being worked.  Enjoy!
http://needleprint.blogspot.com/2013/02/alderney-islanders-create-finale-of.html

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

Available Paternayan Colors

The "new" Paternayan wool colors from Saco River Dye House have been posted on the Threadneedle Street website. These are the colors available as of Feb. 2013; more colors are being introduced all the time.  To see the list of available colors as of last month, click on the "News" button in the header at Threadneedle Street's home page.  Right now black and white and red and mustard are available, plus quite a few shades of gray, blue, brown and green.  Stay tuned for more colors as Saco River gears up production.
http://www.threadneedlestreet.com

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.

Stitching and Bitching at NW East

Starting March 10th, Needlewoman East in Falls Church, Virginia is going to have a Stitch and Bitch session the second and fourth Sundays of the month from 1-5 p.m.  Sadly that is too far a drive for me to make it but I'll be there in spirit, bitching away with the best of 'em!  Call the shop at 703.241.0316 to reserve a space at the table.

After all, Woodlawn is the entire month of March and this might be a great stop before or after the show....

Pat, thanks for posting 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.

Real Color Cards

Kreinik reminds us that they offer real color cards, made with snippets of actual threads. These are wonderful. I have a set myself that probably needs updating but I use it quite a bit when I am trying to mail order threads.  Nothing beats seeing the real thing if you are doing mail order.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2013/02/kreinik-color-cards.html

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

Enabling

Cat Topiary Garden as Wall Hanging

How about a little enabling this morning? Fans of the Cat Topiary Garden I stitched for my mother last year (above) will be happy to hear Amy Bunger has this discontinued canvas for sale at Amy's Golden Strand.  You can use "cat topiary garden" as a search term here at Blog and follow what I did to stitch it if you like.
http://www.amybunger.com/catalog/item/7997827/9581182.htm

If that's more than you want to spend today, visit Joan Thomasson's website and browse the angels that she's famous for.  They are reasonably priced (particularly if you buy the canvas only and stitch from your stash) and very attractive.  Don't miss the Fun Angels who are perhaps better described as fallen angels.
http://www.joanthomasson.com/ProductCategories.aspx

I am also quite fond of her Santas, especially this elegant French St. Nick.
http://www.joanthomasson.com/ProductDetail.aspx?RowID=136

Do you have favorites you've spotted at a very good price?  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.

New Wools and Bead Buddies

Paternayan is in production again.  According to Cynthia Thomas who posted about this on the ANG email list, two companies are making Paternayan. Saco River Dye House owns the Paternayan name and are making a three ply wool, with each ply the same.   Colonial Needle is using the same spinner as JCA did (the last owner of Paternayan) to make three ply wool, each ply slightly different in size.  Cynthia thinks Colonial's version is called Colonial Persian Wool.   The basic colors are available now and more colors are planned.  Cynthis says, "I handled and stitched with both and think they are both fine" but she warns stitchers to make sure they get enough wool in the same dye lot to finish their project.

I've also heard on the ANG email list that Fleur de Paris has a new wool from New Zealand called Anahera.  This is a single ply tapestry wool that is said to be very soft and durable.  You can read more about it on the Fleur de Paris website.
http://www.fleurdeparis.com/products/10Expand.asp?ProductCode=NW-8

Vicky DeAngelis has posted photos of Meredith Willett's latest brainstorm--Bead Buddies,  As I understand it from Vicky's explanation, these are little plastic boxes with lids that have a magnet pair on the bottom and sticky stuff inside.  You attach them to your canvas to keep your beads close by.  These are available from Elizabeth Turner Collection.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/blue-bonnet-needle-arts-retreat/

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.

Antique Needlepoint Purses for Sale

Antique needlepoint purses are up for auction.  The auction will be over by the time you read this but since it is in England, I didn't think many of us would be bidding.
http://needleprint.blogspot.com/2013/02/bags-of-bags-purses-knowle-auction.html

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

Stitching in the Middle of Living

Today's Thought for the Day is from Julie, who clearly leads the sort of life I lead--full of constant interruptions.
http://theshopsampler.wordpress.com/2013/02/12/february-tusal/

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 Bride UPDATED

...The Bride of Frankenstein, that is!  Here is what Suzanne has done with one of her Monster's Ball canvases.  This is an older club from Pocket Full of Stitches.  The second link shows the entire set.  This is from Janet Burnett/A Collection of Designs.  Very very cute!
http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2013/02/the-bride-of-frankenstein.html

http://www.pfos.com/OtherClubs/MonstersBall/pg1.HTM

Suzanne is stitching the club this year and will update her blog with photos of each as she finishes them.  She's already added It to the collection, which makes me smile broadly.  Actually, I don't know which one I like best.  They are all cuter than monsters have a right to be.
http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2013/02/it.html

http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2013/02/weird-willy-werewolf.html

http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2013/02/freaky-frankie.html

http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2013/02/elvira-voluptuous-vamp.html

http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2013/02/magical-merlin.html

http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2013/02/dr-no-mad-scientist.html

UPDATE:  More monsters!
http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2013/03/mr-bones.html

http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2013/03/vlad-vampire.html

By the way, if you are a fan of larger Halloween pieces, Enriched Stitch is planning classes for Melissa Shirley's new Four Witches.  Here is the first one, skulls and all.
http://astheneedleturns.com/helowise-by-beckih/

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