A New Form of Stitch Dictionary

If you are tired of the usual stitch dictionaries but would still like a fun way to learn a few new stitches, you need to look at the playing cards Janet Zigler Casey sells on her website.  Each card has a stitch diagram!  These are perfect gifts for your guild or for that bridge game among your stitching group.  And they are just durn cute.
https://www.jzcdesigns.com/dealastitch.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.

Baby Baby

Pocket Full of Stitches is hosting a trunk show from Needle Deeva. Today they are showcasing baby samplers of various styles. Even if you are not in the market for a sampler for a very small person, some of these are quite interesting designs.  I really like the hand print idea, for example, and of course I'm a big fan of Noah's Ark patterns.  Hope you enjoy these, too.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2013/05/needle-deeva-trunk-show-easter-baby.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 Real Deal

Kreinik's blog features their real metal paillettes, which have an anti-tarnish coating. They come in a variety of sizes and although they aren't as colorful as sequins, they are more durable.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2013/05/pretty-paillettes-add-real-metal.html

Sometimes one wants flashy embellishments and sometimes you really need the classics.  Like these silver or gold paillettes, in a variety of sizes.
http://www.kreinik.com/shops/Paillettes/

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 Christmas Tree Skirt Evolved

The Needlepointer's daily e-flier shows off the evolution of a Christmas tree skirt series into two long banners for the stitcher's kids.   It is a very clever way to handle a set of small canvases when the original plan doesn't seem right any more.  If you have a pile of similar canvases in your stash awaiting inspiration, maybe this will work for you as well.
http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=2b1a4dafdf1ba6e29e773aa79&id=20bcbb10d0&e=73961ee0ea

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.

RSS Reader Alert

Mary Corbet speaks for all bloggers whose readership keeps up with the news via RSS readers.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/05/needle-n-thread-technical-stuff-rss-readers.html

If the term "RSS reader" means absolutely nothing to you, then you can skip the article, but just so you know,  an RSS reader is a website that lists all the sites you follow in one place so you can log in there and read everything that's been updated.  Google has a site called Google Reader that a lot of people use but that Google (for their own mysterious reasons) has decided to remove Google Reader starting July 1st so folks are looking for alternatives.

Like Mary, I have switched from Google Reader to Feedly.  I've heard good things about Bloglovin but  I like Feedly better.  It seems more natural for me to navigate.  Like everything else, one size does not fit all, so use Mary's article to find a replacement that suits you.

I don't think the list of blogs I maintain at the bottom of this page will be effected as I was careful not to import my Google Reader feeds to create it.  I built it by hand, adding each link manually.  But not all blog lists were done this way so you may find your favorite blog's list of favorites impacted by Google's decision.

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.

More Counted Fun

Today's a very good day for the counted needlepointers among us as Laura Perin has also released a brand new design.  She calls this Spring Bouquet Sampler. It's a mix of blackwork, embroidery and composite needlepoint stitches and is very pretty.    I bet it would be a smash hit in reds, oranges and corals....
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/05/a-new-spring-bouquet.html

Stitches From the Heart has a new Pat Mazu ornament series called "Chequered Chic" for her fans to enjoy.
http://stitches-heart.com/pat-mazu-has-new-design/

AND they have re-released Jean Hilton's Light n Lacy design booklet, which is a series of small, intricate patterns which are showcased on the new cover.
http://stitches-heart.com/light-n-lacy-new-look/

It's a good day to be able to count!

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.

Four New LizArt Bargello Patterns ( and a Freebie!)

Fans of Bargello patterns or counted canvaswork will be thrilled to hear that Liz Morrow has released four new patterns and also has posted a free design on her website.  Details are on her blog, or...
http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2013/05/new-patterns_13.html

...you can visit her website to buy.  
http://www.lizartneedlepoint.com

Here are the free designs.  Thanks, Liz!
http://www.lizartneedlepoint.com/Free_Designs.php

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.

Customizing Your Elephant UPDATED

I just noticed a fascinating class being offered at The Classic Stitch the end of July.   It is a line drawing of a fancy elephant that the teacher (Linda Coriossi) will help each class member customize to their own taste.   Everyone will pick the colors, the stitches and the embellishments that suit their personal style, guided by Linda to make it all painless and fun.  It sounds like a fascinating and different class.
http://www.theclassicstitch.com

The canvas is a Tapestry Fair design and Robin King worked on the guide so you know the stitch diagrams are going to be first rate.  I don't see the design on the Tapestry Fair website but they are well known for their classic elephant pieces.  Wish I was going to be there!

UPDATE:  Peggi from Tapestry Fair writes, "Hi Jane - This design isn't on the website, since it was done exclusively for Linda to use for classes. She taught this class in Phoenix at Family Arts, and it looked like a lot of fun for students who wanted a one of a kind canvas.'

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 Portraits

A lot of folks find stitching faces hard, so when I saw this posting by Quail Run of a tribute to the stitcher's mother, I had to put it here for everyone to see.
http://sonorandesertstitching.blogspot.com/2013/05/happy-mothers-day.html

I've also got an interesting article about how to make stitched eyes look more realistic.  It illustrates just how much impact one stitch has on facial expression.
http://www.funkandweber.com/create-eye-sparkles-in-cross-stitch/

I encourage you to go slowly with faces and rip out until you get it just right, especially since it probably is just a few stitches that are giving you the effect you don't want.

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 Finisher's Role

The finisher is responsible for elevating our stitching from the box under the bed or the back of the drawer to a showstopper on display.  In the link below, Anne shows off her little penguin stockings, one for a girl and one for a boy, that she designed for siblings.  Her local shop turned her designs into real Christmas treats that can be cherished for years.
http://thecapestitcher.blogspot.com/2013/05/from-start-to-finish.html

Diane's just gotten finishing back as well.  She has the fascinating earmuff ornaments from Linda Lahn, a Renaissance Designs puppies bookmark, and a cute Painted Pony angel to show off here.
http://www.dianestakingtimeouttoneedlepoint.com/2013/05/finishing-from-angela.html

Wait'll you see Patti's stitching!  The finishing is different on each design to match the use Patti planned for it.
http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=2b1a4dafdf1ba6e29e773aa79&id=b13bf99ee8&e=73961ee0ea

Associated Talents' Skeletor

Rear View

Remember Skeletor, the small Halloween ornament from Associated Talents?  I call him Bob.  Bob's a 2 1/2 inch square Halloween ornament from Associated Talents that I finished over a year ago and put away.  Now Skeletor has been at West Coast Finishing, becoming the ornament of my dreams!
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2012/04/so-what-has-jane-been-stitching.htmlhttp://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2012/04/serendipitous-bob.html

Boxed Sides with Pompoms

Many thanks to Sue Parsons at West Coast Finishing for coming up with a way to enhance Bob without overwhelming this small piece.  Finishers are the unsung heroes of the world of needlepoint!

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.

Listening to Kids

Pepita's experience designing to a child's requirements is both a charming story and a great idea.
http://needlepointofview.com/2013/05/08/tefillin-bet-hamikdash/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tefillin-bet-hamikdash

By the way, if you are looking for Judaic canvases, follow the link to do some fun browsing at Pepita's other website.

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.

ATTENTION: Barbara Bergsten Fans!

If you have some finished photographs of your Barbara Bergsten pieces, Barbara would like copies to post proudly on her website. Nothing makes a designer happier than knowing how much fun customers are having, so please share with Barbara if you can.
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2013/05/finished-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.

The Future?

Is this the future of cyber classrooms?
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324669104578207533286902440.html?KEYWORDS=craftsy#articleTabs%3Darticle

Not every teacher is enamored with how Craftsy works.
http://shiborigirl.wordpress.com/2013/05/10/the-heron-and-the-hummingbird/

What do you think?  Should needlepoint stay under the radar or try more slick presentations?   Would you take such a class?  Would you teach one?

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 Messy Beading Cyberclass

Laura Perrin has announced her next cyberclass--"Messy Beading."   Have you heard of this technique which Julia Snyder named messy beading? Bascially you come up, add some beads to your needle, and go down again a bit away from the hole you came up in. Repeat.   Laura says it is easy and looks great, so she's dedicated her next floral cyberclass to the technique.  Here's a bit about the class and Before and After photos so you can see.  The class starts in July so registration starts Memorial Day weekend.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/05/a-new-floral-cyber-class-with-messy.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.

Sheena's on Vacation

Since Sheena James has been on vacation I've really missed her regular blog updates. Fortunately she's back home and has posted a nice long article with photos of Newfoundland and of Brenda Hart's class at Bedecked and Beadazzled which she visited while on her way North.
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/adventures/

By the way, Linda's large canvas of elephants Sheena talks about is by Tapestry Fair.  It comes in two sizes.  Brenda's student must be working the 27x36 inch version. To see exactly what she is attempting, visit the designer site here.
http://www.tapestryfair.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=49&Itemid=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.

A New Kind of Tekobari

In early May the Japanese Embroidery Center posted about a new type of tekobari on their Facebook page. It's flat instead of squared off. You can see it on the Japanese Embroidery Center website. I inquired and this is Japanese-made just like the tekobari we are used to.  It is much less expensive, however.  The traditional laying tool is $55-75 now.
http://jecstore.com/index.php/tools/stitching-tools/tekobari.html#.UY2GyJU1Bjd

You can see the regular tekobari here.  The holding end is squared off.  In both types the pointed end is rounded.
http://www.temarikai.com/tekobaritool.html

For those who are new to laying tools, Sue Dulle has a great article about various items that can be used as laying tools and a brief tutorial on their proper use.  If you are new to the use of laying tools, it doesn't make sense to get a tekobari when there are cheaper alternatives to use when you are starting out. Sue's article will help you find other types to try.
http://sudukc.wordpress.com/2009/03/02/i-lay-i-layed-i-will-laythreads/

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 Second Background (Dr. Who) - Part Two

O'jishi's Background Underway

Alternating Cashmere Pairs

When I stitched the first canvas in my Dr. Who series, my choices were wide open.  I narrowed them down by taking inspiration from Dr. Who's TARDIS, the blue police box that the hero of the TV series travels in.  I used the same shade of blue that the TARDIS is painted and found a stitch that had the same rectangular shape to it.

This time I have limited myself somewhat by decided to use another stitch but the same threads as in the original piece.  How do I pick a stitch from the zillions of choices?  My first thought was to pick another stitch with the TARDIS' rectangular shape.  I went with Alternating Cashmere Pairs, a beautiful stitch that I have used before as a light coverage stitch on Leigh's O'jishi (above).  To the left you see my test of this stitch.  For the pairs of cashmere blocks that were horizontal, I used my Lorikeet wool and then I switched to the Silk Lame Braid for the vertical cashmeres.

However, this stitch is too big and bold for my canvas, isn't it?  Look at the Doctor's head.  The pairs are almost as large, which throws the whole canvas out of whack.  I'd forgotten one of the rules of backgrounds--the scale can't overwhelm the central design.  So despite how much I like this stitch (and the two threads I choose cover beautifully), it isn't right for this design.  I ripped it out and started again.

This time I looked for stitches that were smaller, that had 2-4 repeats in the same space as The Doctor's head.  I remembered the ripples of light that are in most of the Dr. Who opening sequences over the years and looked for something that would echo ripples in time and space as The Doctor moves between them.  I found a beautiful squiggle stitch from Kandace Merric's Pattern Darning Heart.
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10200171172546999.198471.1381993964&type=1

You can see it on the lower left of this photo.  It has two repeats in the same area as the Doctor's head, but it looks too busy to me.  I filled in the squiggles with Silk Lame Braid squiggles and that made it even busier.  Compare my version to Kandy's heart and you will see how the change to a darker and thicker thread (I used three plies of the Lorikeet wool) made this stitch ponderous and heavy.  So I ripped out again.

My third attempt is in the upper left corner of the canvas.  This is a sort of Bargello stitch I found in the background of a stitched mermaid canvas.  The repeats are larger than the Doctor's head but the stitch is quite narrow so that doesn't seem to matter.

I think it is going to work but I will have to remove the squiggle stitch and take it all the way down the left side of the canvas and then do a few more rows to be certain.    So how do I pick a background stitch from the zillions available?  I hold tryouts, either on the canvas itself or on scraps of leftover canvas that I save after I cut excess canvas off pieces I am finishing myself.  I make careful note of what doesn't work and that helps me figure out what will.  And I rip out A LOT.

Stay tuned to see how well this new mystery stitch works!

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.

Painter's Thread Colors in Silk Ribbons

Needlepoint Retailer has announced that Painter's Threads have come out with a silk ribbon. You can read a bit about the ribbons here.
http://yarntree.typepad.com/needlework_news/2013/05/painters-threads-silk-ribbon.html

 The Threadnuts' website (they are the distributors) doesn't like silk ribbons yet as this is very new.
http://shop.threadnut.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.

Hold On To Your Needles! It's Callaway!

It's that time of year--the website for Callaway Gardens School of Needle Arts 2014 is up and available for drooling!
http://www.callawaygardens.com/events/education-and-culture/callaway-gardens-school-of-needle-arts

Callaway isn't affiliated with ANG or EGA, it is a separate entity in a lovely venue, the Callaway Gardens just north of Columbus, Georgia.  The classes are smaller, the atmosphere cozy, and the students return year after year.  If you want to become a Callaway alum, all the information you need is in the link above.

I hope you have a little time to browse the classes and dream over the long Memorial Day weekend.  Remember the stitchers who came before us, and think about enhancing your own stitching skills as you look at the wonderful lessons available to anyone who can manage to get away next January.

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 Second Background (Dr. Who)

Now that I have most of Dr. Eleven stitched, I have to find a background.  I decided I wanted to stick with the same vivid blue colors and threads (Lorikeet and Silk Lame Braid) that I used for the Weeping Angel Statue canvas but not reuse the background from that piece.  This limits me in many ways.  A lighter color background works in more stitches than a dark color does in my experience.  You can get away with more stitches if the background is lighter.  I also think using light coverage stitches means you can use more stitches because a light coverage stitch is meant to not completely cover the canvas.  A bit of canvas "dandruff" isn't an issue with light coverage stitches.

So I have painted myself into a corner in a way.  Let's see if I can find a way out!

First I consulted my favorite books for background stitches.  By the way, several books are dedicated to background stitches.  Keep an eye open for Mindy English's Canvas Embroidery Notebook:  Backgrounds if you like embroidery-inspired stitches which are not the usual thing.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/The-Canvas-Embroidery-Notebook-Backgrounds-by-Mindy-English-/271206401652?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f25294674

 June McKnight has three books exclusively on backgrounds--the brand new Colorful Backgrounds (which talks about using color in your background) and...
http://www.junemcknight.com/colorfulbackgrounds/ColorfulBackgrounds.html

...her older Backgrounds book which called Decorative Backgrounds for Needlepoint which appears to have a lot of darning patterns, although I've never seen this book so I am not sure.
http://www.newneedlepoint.com/content-product_info/product_id-2440/_sale_decorative_backgrounds_for_needlepoint_by_june_mcknight.html

There is also her More Background Stitches, which builds on Decorative Backgrounds to offer even more options for stitchers.  Of course many many books have stitches useful for backgrounds, so don't neglect checking out all your books for ideas.   I'd love to hear about great background stitch books, so if you have one you use a lot, please mention it in the comments or email me directly at chilly hollow at hot maildot com and I'll post for you.
http://bethsneedlepoint.com/Dot_StoreProducts.asp?storecategoryDesc=Books%20and%20DVDs&idstoreCategory=69

But just how do you pick a background from all these books?  That is a topic for tomorrow.

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.

Sorority Canvases UPDATED

Barbara Bergsten has some wonderful sorority canvases.
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2013/05/sorority-needlepoint.html

Seeing Barbara's charming designs prompted me to make a list of all the designers who create Greek college group designs.  Here they are, in alphabetical order.  Please let me know where you get your favorite designs if they are not already on the list.

Betsy B. - I believe that Betsy B. had a lot of sorority-themed canvases but their website has disappeared and I can't find any of their designs pictured in the big shops.  Your best bet will be to check with your favorite shops to see if any of this designer's work is in their inventory.  You can also see if this store has anything in stock still.  Some folks will want to check out the Mackenzie Childs canvases, too.
http://knit1needlepoint2.com/designers/betsey_b.html

UPDATE:  Betsy B. just posted (Sept. 2013) that they didn't know their website was down, but folks can visit Painted Pony (Betsy B.'s distributor) to see their designs.

Kangaroo Paws - This new designer doesn't seem to have a website but does sell on eBay a little.  Your shop will probably have to order for you if the sorority or fraternity you want isn't there.
http://stores.ebay.com/Bloomin-Stitches-Needlework/Kangaroo-Paw-Designs-/_i.html?_fsub=4796091014&_sid=1072633294&_trksid=p4634.c0.m322

Painted Pony Designs - They offer small sorority angels in their signature angel series, little socks, and heart shapes too.  The tiny angels have charms that relate to the sorority's mascot, which is a nice touch.
http://www.paintedponyneedlepoint.com/designs.htm

Smothers and Branson - The company specializes in finished needlepoint pieces, especially belts.
http://www.smathersandbranson.com/web/catalog.aspx

Some shops have a large stock of sorority canvases.  Serendipity Needleworks also has a photo album of these type of designs on their Facebook page.
http://www.serendipityneedleworks.com/Store/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=38

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.

Thread Substitutes for Needlepoint Now Tulips

Since I mentioned Needlepoint Now this morning, it's a good time to mention that Needle in a Haystack has gone to the trouble of finding appropriate substitutes for threads used in two recent NP Now projects--Merrilyn Haazelwood's Tulips and Daffodils pieces.  Merrilyn is in Australia and some of the threads she used are difficult to find.  I've certainly had my favorite color of Kreinik go out of production just as I was finishing a stitch guide for which it was a Must Have, so I am very sympathetic to poor Merrilyn's plight and that of the folks who love her flower garden pieces.
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2013/05/substitutes-for-needlepoint-now-projects.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.

In Case You Don't Subscribe

Ada Hayden posted a wonderful photo of a cute little Spring Garden photo on her blog. This piece happens to be a design in the new May/June 2013 issue of Needlepoint Now.   In case you don't use floss bags or cards, consider making this up as a purse zipper pull for that summer straw bag or perhaps as a very special gift tag for a present.  Ada's penchant for happy colors just screams summer to me!
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2013/05/spring-garden-bonus-project-and-more.html

http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2013/05/gardening-tips.html

Needlepoint Now is a wonderful magazine for the needlepoint-obsessed.  (That would be us!)  Here's a glimpse of the other treats inside May/June 2013.
http://www.needlepointnow.com/current-issue/

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.

Exhibits and Classes and Fun

Since it is spring and the weather is marginally better, there are all sorts of classes and exhibits going on.  Luckily folks are reporting in so that we can share in the experiences no matter how far away they are from our own stitching nest. Nimble Needle in New Jersey went to Needle Fest and had a great time
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/04/nj-needlefest-labor-of-love.html

Sandy Arthur just taught a painted canvas embellishment class at The Village Sampler and had a blast!
http://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/05/village-sampler-st.html

Cynthia Thomas was at Atlanta Needlepoint teaching techniques from her new book and was planning to meet up with Needlepoint Nation members shortly. Hope she had even more fun there!
http://hillcountrystitcher.blogspot.com/2013/04/im-traveling-fool.html

Diane went to Mackinac Island and stitched with June McKnight.
http://dianestakingtimeouttoneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/05/mackinac-island-grand-hotel-limoge-box.html

Needle Bug went to Monroeville for a play and took Julia Snyder along.  Then Julia taught.  A good time was had by all.
http://www.theneedlebug.com/blog2/2013/05/wow-julia-has-come-and-gone/

http://www.theneedlebug.com/blog2/2013/05/more-photos/

The Guildford Town Tapestry is on display in Guildford.  Unfortunately this is a town in Surrey, England, so I won't get to meet the mayor who coordinated the stitching of this large piece and who worked on it herself but I agree that we need more stitching mayors!
http://needleprint.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-stitching-mayoress-guildford-town.html

Coral Seas has been to the Royal School of Needlework's ecclesiastical embroidery exhibit.  Follow the link to see the Litany of Loreto pieces she raves about.
http://threadsacrosstheweb.blogspot.com/2013/05/a-few-days-ago-one-of-my-japanese.html

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, is a lot closer to me but I missed their Third Annual Needlecraft Exhibit.  Melita went however, and reports back about the pieces that caught her eye.
http://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2013/05/05/rehoboth-beach-museums-third-annual-needlecraft-exhibit/

If you haven't had any stitching exhibits or classes in your life lately, you might be interested in this Margaret Bendig class in San Diego.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/join-us-for-a-day-of-stitching-or-2/

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.

First Charley, Now Eleanor UPDATED

Ruth Schmuff (who is a painted canvases distributor when she isn't being a teacher or a shop owner) has a new designer in her stable--Eleanor Grosch.  These are so new that they aren't even priced on Ruth's website.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/05/just-eleanor.html

Her Just Eleanor line reminds me of Charley Harper.  Ms. Grosch is an illustrator whose non-needlepoint work can be seen here.
http://www.justeleanor.com

UPDATE:  Ruth is going to use one of Eleanor's canvases for a short summer mystery class-featuring this parrot.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2014/04/this-just-in.html

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2014/06/polly-wanna-cracker.html

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2014/07/polly-takes-flight.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.

From Robin's Bookshelf

Robin King shows off some of the new books she just added to her stitching library in this blog posting.  Some of the books are brand new, some are older books she just purchased.  This may be helpful as you add to your stitching library, too.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2013/05/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.

Keep Your Fingers Crossed! UPDATED

I just made a visit to Petei's website and discovered that the line may (and I emphasize MAY) be sold and made available again.  You can read what she posted there for yourself.  Stay tuned....
http://www.petei.com

UPDATE:   A lot of folks think the message on Petei's website is old.  Stay tuned.  While we wait you can see Gretchen's Petei collection on Steph's blog.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/05/could-it-be-true.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.

Raymond Crawford's Website...

...has been redesigned!  I like the graphic punch of Raymond Crawford's designs which are not too detailed for embellishment but not too simple, either.  Many thanks to Vicky DeAngelis for the tip!
http://raymondcrawford.com

http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/raymond/

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.

Pony's Colored Eye Needles: A Review

Mary Corbet reviews something totally different--small embroidery/crewel needles with colored eyes. Each color denotes a different size.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/05/colored-eye-needles-from-pony.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.

Horse Racing in Needlepoint

The Preakness was this weekend, and although I don't follow horse racing, there are plenty around me who do since there are so many large horse farms within 100 miles of Chilly Hollow.  There's even a small race track about twenty miles from us.  So it was no surprise that Ruth Schmuff over in Baltimore posted about horse racing and Maryland on her blog.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/05/preakness-maryland-tradition.html

If Maryland isn't a state you want a souvenir of, how about a horse racing stand up set?  Beth's Needlepoint Nook has a really fun club to celebrate the Sport of Kings.  This is perfect for those who love jockeys and their rides and going to the races in their dreams.
http://bethsneedlepoint.com/Dot_ClubsExec.asp?idClubCategory=21

Kathy Schenkel has some darling mini socks that come with their own tiny stuffed horse.   If you have an aspiring rider in your family, these make wonderful presents.  Stitch the stocking, pop a little twenty dollar bill inside and secure by adding the little horse.  Surprise!
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/needlepoint/--b-2309.asp

http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/needlepoint/--b-2310.asp

But if you just want a classic horse pillow, you can't go wrong with this beauty from HP Designs.
http://store.needlenook.com/HP-Designs-Four-Horses-w-Floral-Border-p33697.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.

Moonshine

Even though the newest mystery class for Bedecked and Beadazzled (the cute mermaid from Sandra Vargas) has just started, Ruth is planning ahead for her next mystery.  She has unveiled the Halloween-themed canvas in this article.  It's not too holiday focused that you can't stitch it and display it all year.  What fun!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/05/blue-moon.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.

Studying The Arctic Circle

Janet Moyer's Arctic Circle

I have a special treat this morning.  Dr. Janet Moyer just finished a canvas and sent me photographs and a description of how she stitched it. The canvas is Charley Harper's Arctic Circle.  Here is the bare canvas (link below).  Pretty plain, isn't it?  Not to Dr. Moyer!
http://www.astitch-above.com/ARCTIC-CIRCLE.html

Janet was raised in Alaska and was greatly influenced by the land, the indigenous cultures and the people who live in the 50th state. She is also very fond of musk oxen and since she knows they protect their young by standing close together in a circle with the calves in the middle, she thought Charley Harper got it right and she had to stitch this.  However, she looked at the piece for months before she picked up a needle.  She understood that this Arctic landscape with wolves, ice floes, musk oxen, glaciers and lots of snow, blue skies and open water would require different different shades of white and blue metallics due to the glint of sunlight on ice and snow so a lot of planning was needed.

Musk Oxen and Iceberg Closeups

Janet started with the Musk Oxen, trying a variety of threads to get their color exactly right.  She wanted to convey their power and how grounded in they are in a place and time foreign to us  (they are very old creatures compared to most around us now).  Janet used almost all metallics on this piece except for the musk oxen which were stitched with DMC and Splendor, but even their horns have gold metallic on top of the Petite Very Velvet that makes up the horns.  Unless you have lived in a place with a lot of snow and know just what bright sun does to snow and ice, all this metallic thread will seem an odd choice.   It also makes it hard to photograph this piece since cameras don't see sparkle and shine.  Even Janet, who is an award winning photographer, had trouble.

The large ice berg just to the right of the row of musk oxen is done with Kreinik's #16 braid in color 032 in the first step of Double Stitch, with Sundance crystal hex beads inserted at random among the empty spaces left by omitting the second part of Double Stitch.  Janet says about Double Stitch with beads:  "I wanted a little more sparkle so decided on random hex beads. I knew if I put hex beads in all the spaces they would not only take over the ice bergs but also the entire piece. Since most of the stitching was done with small stitches I had to find a balance between large and small."

Wolves, Blue Snow and Musk Oxen Hooves

The wolves are done in white Fuzzy Stuff, stitched in random long stitches done in layers and then stroked with a fingernail to enhance the fuzzy look.  The blue snow under the Musk Oxen's Petite Very Velvet hooves is Kreinik #12 braid (color 094) half laid horizontally, every other space.  Then Janet came back and filled in vertically.

Water, Clouds, Sky and Ice Floes

The sky is done with High Cotton blended with Accentuate in a running stitch over 3 and then over 5 alternating. The puffy clouds are shirred Frosty Rays Plus Janet held the inner metallic thread while sliding the outer thread to the puffiness she wanted. Then the cloud thread was couched down here and there with the inner metallic thread.

The dark blue water is T stitch using a Kreinik metallic that is darker than the painted blue water. The small ice floes in the water are stitched in brick stitch using the same 032 Kreinik as the large ice bergs and with Neon Rays Plus. The brick stitch changes direction on different floes to add tension to the design.

Framed

The piece is double matted with a non-shiny aluminum frame with light random etching on it. This photo gives you some idea of the sparkles when the light hits it. This is a perfect love letter to Janet’s native State. It now hangs in her “Alaska room” with various Eskimo masks and other Alaskan artwork.

Charley Harper's work is distributed by Treglown Designs, which is authorized by his estate to reproduce his designs on needlepoint canvas. Many, many thanks to Janet for sharing this amazing tribute to Alaska with us!

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.

Little EMbellishments UPDATED

Laura Perin mentioned the bottle cap magnets she got on Etsy from Little EMbellishments. I thought I'd hunt down the shop and mention it here to make it easier to find.   Click on "Magnets" on the left hand side to see only the bottle cap magnet sets.  They are sold in groups of four.  There is a pink and black Paris set, several sets of colorful owls and a charming set of monkeys.  There are sayings like the Keep Calm set, graphic patterns and striped flowers or boat anchors. Something for everyone!  I can't say how strong the magnets are but Laura P. likes her set enough to mention them on her blog. Have fun browsing!
http://www.etsy.com/shop/LittleEMbellishments?page=1

UPDATE:  Laura posts more about the magnets from Little EMbellishments.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/06/need-magnets.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 Newest Beads and Crystals from The Collection

I was lucky enough to be gifted with quite a few of the latest beads and crystals from The Collection.  What you see in the photo is straight from Destination Dallas.  Crystal sequins are in the packages but I opened the small bead tubes and laid out a few for you to see better.

On the right is a packet of 6 mm square crystal sequins which are very shiny.  There are only four to a package but these are quite expensive.  I have a small hoard from The Sweetheart Tree which were quite expensive even on sale about 8 years ago when I bought them.  The other package is 8mm red flower crystals which are not as sparkly.  These are called marguerites among beaders.  These have eight in the package.

The beads are described from the top down:

Black bugle beads, 3mm long and VERY shiny, don't know if there are other colors available- number is BGL1-401 Black

Leaves -- 10mm and brand new -- I also have solid copper and silver leaves - the clear green in the photo are labeled 101-105-5050 Peridot

Hearts - also new - The ones in the photo are harvest yellow and labeled VLH-13/LK080 Captured Sunset - I also have orange-coral hearts and a green-gray set with streaks in them.  All three colors are labeled hurricane glass (whatever that is).  These glass hearts are 6mm.  They are not sparkly but are semi-transparent.

Clear silver lined Japanese Delicas in size 10/0 (i.e., slightly smaller than the normal 11/0 beads) - These are rounded tubes that look like a giant piece of spaghetti sliced into sections. They are labeled DBM0041 S/L Crystal.

Miyuki size 10/0 triangle beads in matte black - These look like they are cut from a long triangular tube - These are labeled STR10-401F Matte Black.  I also have very shiny gunmetal black, too.

Drop beads in irridescent blue - 3.4 mm - These are labeled DP-261 Tr Sapphire AB. They are very pretty. I only have this color.

More triangle beads - these are not labeled Miyuki but I have a ton of colors. The ones in the photo are a very sparkly blue-teal and are labeled TG-11-7BD Capri Blue. I also have Bronze, silver lined Lime, transparent flesh colored pink, clear with a white lining, and yellow. All are very sparkly!

Your shop can order these for you from The Collection.  See their website for more photos.  The crystals, size 10/0 beads and triangle beads aren't there yet that I see but you should be able to see everything else.

http://www.allaboutstitching.com/embellishments.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.

Tips from the Experts

I've been collecting links that have all sorts of wonderful tips for us stitchers.  The first summarizes information from a Margaret Bendig class at Quail Run, particularly tips on how to anchor a new thread so it is both secure and invisible on the front.  There are some lovely photos of Margaret's charted work, too!
http://sonorandesertstitching.blogspot.com/2013/03/sunday-sampler-of-tips-from-margaret_24.html

The second link shows off progress on the latest Enriched Stitch and talks about how to achieve dimension on this very complex piece that shows both the exterior and interior of a needlework shop.
http://astheneedleturns.com/rebecca-banner-class-1/

The third is to a report on a Meredith Willet class at Bedecked and Beadazzled.  The ideas she came up with for each and every canvas are exactly perfect!  (Meredith is an author, shop owner, distributor of needlepoint canvases, oversees a fabulous finishing business, and also is famous for her goldwork classes.  You name it, she can do it.)
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/03/the-marvelous-miss-m.html

My final link isn't to any tips but shows two wonderful purses made from canvases that normally wouldn't be made up into pocketbooks.  Very clever!
http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=2b1a4dafdf1ba6e29e773aa79&id=643258383e&e=73961ee0ea

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.

Nimble Needle Specializes in S Class Instruction

Ok, I was feeling silly when I wrote the title of this article. What I should have said is that Nimble Needle just announced two summer classes-- the first is an embellishment class by the master of embellishing and embossing canvases--SharonG. (She is a master of designing painting canvases, too, and will bring a trunk show for folks to enjoy).  The second is a class just taught at the ANG Seminar in Philadelphia last fall--Susan Hoekstra's Ben's Kites.  This is a line drawn canvas with each shape filled with pattern and colors inspired by the four seasons.  The shapes are inspired by Philadelphia's most famous resident--Ben Franklin.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/05/classes-more-classes-and-trunk-show-too.html

If you get to go, I expect a full report!

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.

Wonderful Stitches, Old and New

Sometimes the oldies are the goodies!  Robin King takes a look at her bookshelf and discovered two different versions of Diane Schultz' Wonderful Stitches.  Both are wonderful sources and if you are interested in a new book, Robin's provided page shots to get a sense of what's inside.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2013/05/wonderful-stitches-by-diane-schultz.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 Christmas Village for a Cold Season

It has been a cold and wet spring for those of us in Chilly Hollow, so this wonderful Christmas village piece is perfect for a week that had two frost watches.  The finishing fascinates me.  I am not certain if it is a shaped pillow or a standup or something in between.  However it is finished, it is a lovely thing even if you really don't want your May to be as cold as December!
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/05/karen-is-all-set-with-this-fantastic.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.

Swimming with Ruth's Mermaid

Ruth Schmuff has started her newest mystery class, the Aquamarine Mermaid from Sandra Vargas. Ruth is like me, she started with the background and the face.  What's especially impressive is how she varies the background from rows of bubbles to random ones. It does look like bubbles are rising toward the surface!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/05/come-swim-with-mermaid.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 Video

Thanks to Maggie B. I am able to point you to a video of some of the Woodlawn 2013 pieces.  You won't be able to understand most of what is said since this is a video for Voice of America but you can glimpse some of the exhibits and get a sense of what the display space is like.  However, the video is not well enough done to
http://maggiebsmocks.typepad.com/smocking/2013/05/video-tour-of-the-50th-woodlawn-needlework-exhibition.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.

Starting The Doctor

Weeping Angel

I finally finished the first of my Dr. Who canvases and started the second while I was on a trip to visit my family.  I thought you'd like to see how the Weeping Angel statute turned out.  I particularly like how the strong background makes the angel in the center of the design stand out.

The Eleventh Doctor Underway

The next in this series I will stitch is the Eleventh Doctor.  The Doctor is the main character in this long-running series.  When one actor leaves and a new actor is chosen, The Doctor character reincarnates.  It's a nice way to seque into a new person taking on the role.  I am not sure you can see the blue lines in the photo but I will use the same arched background area for all the pieces.  I traced it out in blue which didn't scan well.  In the photo above the black jeans, belt and the hair are done.  The face and hands and white shirt are partly finished.  I will work on this a bit off and on, probably using mostly basketweave although the hair is done in one of Gloriana's pretty silk overdyed flosses in split stitches overlaid with long slanted stitches here and there to add depth and dimension.

I haven't decided whether to use the same background stitch for all the set yet.  I might use the same threads but a variation on the stitch used for the Weeping Angel.  I am not sure yet.  I'll have to think about this while I work on stitch guides.  Stay tuned!

These are from Rogue Needlepoint, by the way.  If you don't have a local shop to order for you, Amy's Golden Strand can help you out.
http://www.rogueneedlepoint.com

http://www.amybunger.com/rogue.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.

Nimble Needle Goes to the Birds

Nimble Needle has nighlighted several birds canvases that are new to the shop (and one classic that probably is going to be harder to find).  Whether you are a bird lover or not, you'll enjoy seeing the variety of styles that birds have inspired in needlepoint designers.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/05/new-books-new-birds.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.

Introducing Pippin Studio

The Needlepointer has uploaded painted canvases from a new designer, Jennifer Tan who designs under the Pippin Studio name.  I think she is going to be particularly well known for her Twelve series of stockings and pillows, each with twelve versions of Santa, twelve sweaters, or twelve sailboats.  Have fun browsing these graphic interpretations of items all around us.
http://theneedlepointer.com/store/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=135&sort=20a&page=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.

Sparkles Seminar

Vicky just attended a class sponsored by a local ANG guild on using Sparkles, the stiff tubular material that Sundance introduced recently. It was taught by Cassie Prescott, one of the Sundance founders, and Barbara Elmore whose designs are distributed by Sundance.  There are a great many effects you can achieve using Sparkles and Vicky practiced them all.  Enjoy the photos and look for a Sparkles Seminar taught by Barbara at a shop near you.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/it-was-a-sparkly-kinda-day/

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

A Riot of Pattern UPDATED

Carolyn Hedge Baird, fresh from a visit to Melissa Shirley's home and design studio, next takes us down the road to visit John Johannsen, whose paintings Melissa Shirley licenses for needlepoint.  Prepare to be amazed....
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2013/04/24/john-johanssen-artist-part-1/

http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2013/04/28/john-johanssen-artist-part-2-a-needlepoint-inspiration/

http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2013/05/01/john-johanssen-artist-part-3-what-john-likes/

UPDATES:
http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2013/05/08/melissa-shirley-designs-john-johanssen-canvases-for-needlepoint/

http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2013/05/12/melissa-shirley-designs-john-johanssen-canvases-for-needlepoint-part-2/

http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2013/05/15/melissa-shirley-designs-john-johanssen-canvases-for-needlepoint-part-3/

http://www.livingwithneedlepoint.com/2013/05/19/melissa-shirley-designs-john-johanssen-canvases-for-needlepoint-part-4/

I am seeing his needlepoint canvases in a whole new light.  They are like taking a piece of his amazing studio home.  You can visit Melissa's website and see her collection of his work and see what I mean here--
http://melissashirleydesigns.com/galsearch/?searchstring=&searchlist=35&Search=Search&dosearch=

Another visitor talks about John's studio and work.
http://lazydaisyneedlework.blogspot.com/2013/07/john-johannsen.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 Valentine (or Two) for Mother's Day

Just in time to treat all the mothers out there, Stephanie has posted photographs of her friend RWK's set of Victorian Valentine Kids from Melissa Shirley. The stitch guides were created by Carolyn Hedge Baird.   RWK did a magnificent job!
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/05/valentines-day-extravaganza.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 Blackwork Mystery for April

Laura Perin has started a new Mini Mystery online design in April. This one starts with blackwork....
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/04/mini-mystery-monday-for-april.html

...then adds a scallop for a border...
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/04/mini-mystery-monday-april-2013-pt-2.html

...followed by eyelet accents....
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/04/mini-mystery-monday-april-2013-pt-3.html

...and finished by some special touches.  (And information about some needle magnets.)
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/05/mini-mystery-monday-april-2013-pt-4.html

By the way, I know it is May now but I wanted to wait until Laura was done to post all these.

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 For Sale Sign's Out

Little Shoppe of Stitches is for sale!   Call Elaine at the shop if you are interested.
http://www.littleshoppeofstitches.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.

Mentoring

Want to share your love of needlepoint? Barbara has just the sort of program you might be interested in!
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2013/05/needle-arts-mentoring-program.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.

Ruth Talks Background Stitches

The monthly newsletter for Bedecked and Beadazzled is out.  In it Ruth talks about backgrounds and neutral stitches (those without a directional flow that moves the eye up, down, or down a diagonal).
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/needlepoint/downloads/bedeckednewsmay2013.pdf

Of course there is a lot of class news plus Ruth reveals her newest mystery class canvas but the real gold is her ideas on backgrounds.  Don't miss that!

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 to Waste Knot

Please join me in shouting Happy Birthday to Waste Knot Needlepoint.  The shop is celebrating its fifth birthday!
http://www.wasteknotneedlepoint.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.

Barbara Bergsten Goes to School

Barbara Bergsten's colorful designs are perfect for beginning stitchers. Two different shops are offering beginner classes using her canvases.  In Stitches (Atlanta) is using one of Barbara's samplers,
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2013/05/needllepoint-class.html

...while Po's Point is offering a kid's camp for a week using Barbara's complex palm tree as a learning tool.  The beauty of Barbara's canvases is that more advanced stitchers can have just as much fun as a beginner with them. which means you can take a friend to class and both enjoy stitching away.
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2013/05/more-needlepoint-classes.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.

Just Add Magnets

Needle in a Haystack has profiled a nice new item from Access Commodities--needle tins. Add a small magnet or two and you'll never lose a needle in your suitcase or travel tote again!
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2013/04/needle-tins-from-access-commodities.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.