Fourth March, Needlepoint Now and Thread Help

If you are one of the folks who plans to stitch Ashley Dillon's Fourth of July March canvas using Susan Portra's stitch guide which Needlepoint Now magazine is publishing, you'll want to read about the alternate navy threads available for the design.   Vicky DeAngelis who works for the magazine has posted alternatives for the Anchor #12 perle listed in the guide that has been discontinued.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/marching-along-with-needlepoint-now/

Threads go out of production all the time.  I've had two vanish almost before I had the guides using them written!  Many thanks to NP Now for coming up with Finca #12 perle cotton and a tatting thread, either of which will substitute nicely if your local shop doesn't have the original Anchor cotton perle available still.

By the way, Ashley has a new Valentine's March design which Vicky shows off, just in case you are interested.  Cupid and attendant nymphs, a blue bird, roses and hearts are everywhere!  Here's another look from the Susan Roberts' website, with all the March series shown if you haven't seen them all yet.
http://www.susanrobertsneedlepoint.com/designs-by-category/tag/catalog/Ashley%20Dillon.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.

Mamon with Flowers

Peggi from Tapestry Fair has her little folk art animal from the Philippines back from the framers'.  It turned out great.  I have to admit I thought this was a beaver but Peggi says he's a sort of cross between a cartoon character and a mascot.  Whatever you think of when you look at Mamon (which is also a sort of yellow sponge cake in the Philippines as well), he's darling.
http://tapestryfair.blogspot.com/2013/07/back-from-framer.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.

Admiring Linda's Studio

We all have our stitching nests, some of which are more organized or compact or scattered than other folks' places.  It all depends on your temperament and how much specialized space you can spare.  Linda just reorganized hers and shows off the end result here.   It looks comfortable and organized and everything is put away to be less tempting to little hands.  Folks with small children and pets will take inspiration from this.  Thanks for sharing, Linda!  It puts my stitching chair to shame!
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-big-reveal-part-1.html

http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-big-reveal-part-2.html

By the way, you might be able to use Mary Corbet's door hook idea to take advantage of extra closet space for your stash.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/07/organizing-future-embroidery-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.

TV Host Visits Needlepoint Clubhouse UPDATED

Thanks to Sundance Designs who noticed the video, I have a link to a local TV segment about Needlepoint Clubhouse in St. Louis.  There are several ads embedded in the video and I think the TV host was playing up his ignorance a bit (tapestry needles aren't sharp, after all) but it is a wonderful promotion about the fun to be had from a great needlepoint shop.
http://www.kmov.com/great-day-st-louis

UPDATE:  I forgot to give you all the address of Needlepoint Clubhouse's website.  Here you go!
http://www.theneedlepointclubhouse.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.

The Exclusive Lighthouse UPDATED

If you are an admirer of lighthouses, you'll want to see the exclusive lighthouse magnet Enriched Stitch will have available in limited quantities shortly.
http://astheneedleturns.com/exclusive-lighthouse-magnet/

UPDATE:  The lighthouses have arrived!
http://astheneedleturns.com/exclusive-lighthouse-magnets/

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.

Taking an Idea and Running with It

If you don't make up stitches for your own designs you probably have no idea how a stitch a stitch guide writer sees somewhere changes and evolves as it is tweaked, played with and tested with various thread types and weights. Ruth Schmuff shows just how this happens on her blog. 
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/07/evolution.html

The stitch Ruth talks about was used with the addition of an additional step that adds straight stitches on top (I think) and the use of two different threads for the moon on her newest mystery class, Zecca's Blue Moon and Owl.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/07/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.

Spray Starch Isn't Just for Wrinkles

I like to iron.  I have some lovely linens that I starch and iron before they go on the dining room table or before I use one as a pocket hanky on a suit.  I never would have thought to use starch this way, however!  I don't think needlepointers can use this tip, but so many of us do other forms of hand work that I had to write about this Mary Corbet article on how to best trace embroidery using spray starch.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/07/spray-starch-embroidery-design-transfer.html

By the way, I much prefer aerosol spray starch as you can add just a little bit where you need it.  The pumps add more starch than I usually want for the first ironing.  (Yes, I normally starch my linens, then iron them, then starch again and iron a second time.  You can file that under She Is Nuts.)

UPDATE:  Beth reminded me that a good way to get a lot of wrinkles out without too much starch is to put the damp item to be starched into the refrigerator for a while, the use a hot iron.  My mother used to put her damp tablecloth into the freezer for a little while before ironing it before a party, come to think about it.  Does anyone here until forty even OWN an iron, much less linens that need ironing?

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.

Boxes for Embroidery

Thanks to the Needle Arts Retailer, I have a new site that makes boxes with lids to display stitching for you to browse.   The boxes designed to display cross stitch are very pretty with a decent price but I'd ask the owners to make sure your needlepoint will fit well in the lid before you buy as the site doesn't describe how stitching is inserted and held in position.
https://sites.google.com/site/patchesnplankshome/cross-stitch-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.

Just Basketweave

"Just" basketweave?   Well, I wouldn't say THIS is only basketweave! 
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/07/yes-i-have-friends-that-just-basketweave.html

Five years ago I did a project that was entirely in basketweave.  It is amazingly difficult to work a piece entirely in tent stitches and have them look good.  I also learned about the difficulty of using a variety of thread types in just one stitch and have everything look consistent.   This link should take you to all the old articles I wrote about my Autumn Leaves piece (designed by Lani), by the way.  Just keep hitting Newer Post to follow along.
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2008/05/autumn-leaves-starting-line-thoughts.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.

Retreating with Margaret UPDATED

Tisha has been on a needlework retreat with Margaret Bendig. I thought the counted canvaswork folks among us would enjoy seeing the photos she took as there are a lot of wonderful patterns and colors there.  I'm sorry I can't identify most of the designers. Luckily Tisha labeled Margaret Bendig's kimono so you'd know who it is from.   Sorry, Margaret's primarily a teacher so usually the only way to pick up one of her designs is to get a class chart from someone on eBay. Too bad!  Margaret does wonderful designs!
http://stitchplaywithneedlepointtooltime.blogspot.com/2013/07/retreat.html

Having said that, Tisha posted Margaret's email address here so send her a note and ask for a chart from that class you missed.  Something might just come of that.
http://stitchplaywithneedlepointtooltime.blogspot.com/2013/11/retreat-2nd-installment-maybe.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.

Ride AND Stitch

If you love riding horses, you'll have great fun looking at the selection of equestrian-themed canvases that Horse Country Chic found at a horse show. These were all brought by Po's Point which had a booth at the show.   If you need a little "gitty up" or "whoa" in your life, a horse in stitches might be the answer.
http://horsecountrychic.blogspot.com/2013/07/new-needlepoint.html

By the way, Needlepoint Shop.com has a wide range of equestrian and belt canvases, plus some wonderful tips on stitching belts.  A neighbor purchased belt canvases from this business several years ago and had them finished there, too, and was very happy with the end result.
https://www.needlepointshop.com/index.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.

Counted Inchies at Shining Needle Society

Needle Delights just posted a photo of the finished "Inchies" design that will be taught at Shining Needle Society plus the four colorways students can choose from.   The piece is a sampler made up of squares of pattern.
http://needledelightsoriginals.blogspot.com/2013/07/inchies-is-finished.html

If you aren't familiar with Shining Needle Society, it is an organization that sets up cyberclasses throughout the year and emails folks on its mailing list as each class comes available.  To get on the mailing list, you just find "Shining Needle Society" on Yahoo Groups and ask to join.
http://groups.yahoo.com

A search brings up a bunch of SNS groups.  There is one for each class.  The group you want to ask to join is Shining Needle Society Home Room.  This is the place where you will hear about new classes as they become available.  You'll get periodic emails (one a week at most) about classes with all the details and a reminder when the sign up deadline is approaching.  Once you see a class you want to take, follow the instructions in the message about that class and your email address will be added to the Yahoo Group for that class where you can ask questions, get detailed instructions and hang out with your fellow students.  It's stitching classes for those who don't live in a place where such classes are available or who can't get to them for whatever reason.
http://groups.yahoo.com/search?query=shining%20needle%20society

If you have questions about the Inchies class or about Shining Needle Society in general, contact Kate Gaunt at KateGaunt@aol.com for help.

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.

Summer Needlepoint

Summer vacation time is time for a new travel project, isn't it? Renee tells us of summer in the Catskills when she was little, and the friendships from then that carry forward now. 
http://needlepointofview.com/2013/07/12/needlepoint-in-the-catskills/

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.

Mark the Date to Go to Camden

The New England Needle Festival will be August 17th in Camden, Maine soon.  Susan just posted about it on Facebook.  Joni Stevenson is going to teach a class.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=632951773401356&set=o.108537025890131&type=1&theater

Yes, THAT Joni Stevenson!
http://creative-stitch.blogspot.com

You can find out more or sign up for Joni's class through Fox View Needlepoint.  Wish I could be there.  Maine is gorgeous in the summer!  (It's gorgeous in the winter as well, but not nearly as easy to visit through all that snow and cold.)
http://www.foxview.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.

Chandail Summer Newsletter

Chandail's newsletter for the summer is online for your viewing.  You'll find photos of the newest Bell Santas from Melissa Shirley (this is a club that started last year), and will get to see exclusive  designes from A Collection of Designs' of Witches' Stockings and Elves' Stockings.
http://siterepository.s3.amazonaws.com/956/e_newsletter_june_chandail_2013_0718_20130719100319.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.

Alphabets UPDATED

Seeing Brenda's neat lettering on her needlepoint studio piece, I thought I would see what alphabet books are available. After all, I'd just read an interesting blurb from Marianne about a new book in her store.
http://needlepointtalk.net/2013/06/19/a-belt-a-book/#utm_source=feed&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=feed

Marianne's alphabet books are all on the same section of her website to make for easy browsing.
http://www.newneedlepoint.com/content-categories/cat-230/new_alphabet_monograms_books.html

UPDATE:  Marianne is on the trail of new alphabet and monogram books, which she describes here.
http://needlepointtalk.net/2013/11/27/letters-numbers-part-2#utm_source=feedly

Tink Boord-Dill's alphabet books are classics.
http://www.tinkbd.com/booksa.htm

Do you have favorite alphabet books?  If so, please mention them in the comments or email me directly at chilly hollow athotmaildotcom if the comments don't work for you.  Thanks!

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 Brenda, Linda, and Monica, too!

Blogging really does give us some great ideas. Today I have tips from Brenda (how to letter your design or stocking) Linda (how to best create fur trim using Fuzzy Stuff) and Monica (how a judicious mix of fancy and plain stitches works overtime to create a wonderful stocking).
http://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2013/06/brendas-needlepoint-studio.html

http://splittheneedles.blogspot.com/2013/06/christmas-in-june.html

http://lazydaisyneedlework.blogspot.com/2013/06/matthews-stocking.html

Thanks, ladies!

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

Introducing Hilary Jean Designs UPDATED

Don't you just love it when a new designer appears?!  More choices, more style, more stuff to enjoy! Let me introduce you to Hilary Jean Designs, the brainchild of Robin Givens.
http://www.hilaryjeandesigns.com

Don't miss reading "Who is Hilary Jean?"  Charming!  The swirly flowers line looks like a quick and fun stitch, perfect for beading or perhaps just that fancy stitch you want to try.  You can have a custom dog house in your favorite colors with the name of that pooch you love added.  There are cute sayings and Christmas things to boot.  Stay tuned as Hilary Jean barks and fetches and adds more to the line.

If you would like to see more and hear a bit more about Robin, Pocket Full of Stitches has the scoop.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2013/07/hilary-jean-designs.html

UPDATE:  Hilary Jean Designs now has a Facebook page.  This is a quick way for Robin to post updates without the hassle and expense of updated her Hilary Jean website often.

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's Summer Vacation

Melita has been in Upstate New York around Rochester, and of course she visited as many shops as she could find in the area. Here's her report, which is great fun to read and useful for those who plan to be in the area this summer or fall.
http://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2013/07/17/needlepoint-visit-to-rochester-canandaigua-ny/

Here is a bit more about Golden Thread Needlearts.
http://theshopsampler.wordpress.com/2012/01/08/golden-thread-needlearts-east-rochester-ny/

Expressions in Needleart has a bare bones website.  I didn't look for information about Liberty Cottage since is it not a store with needlepoint goodies.
http://www.expressionsinneedleart.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.

Finished, in Detail

Several folks have posted great photographs of finished class pieces, with plenty of detail visible.  The first piece is Sandy Arthur's To the Beach, stitched so well by Brenda that it was used as promotion for the Rehoboth Beach Museum's annual needlework exhibit.
http://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2013/06/to-beach.html?showComment=1372461593904

I think Sandy is still teaching this piece.  Yes, she is!
http://duodesignsinc.com/PDFs/Portfolios2012-2013V2.pdf

The other class project is one of Melissa Shirley's new bird and branch designs, just taught at Enriched Stitch in late June.  It is called Bird Stories and the stitches are shown in great detail in the photographs. I am sure the shop can get the stitch guide and kit together for you if you are as charmed by this as I am.
http://astheneedleturns.com/bird-stories/

Finally, how about these lovely pillows from M Designs?  I am not sure if all of them are Mary's original designs but at least some are.
http://mdesigns-crossstitchville.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-little-finishing.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.

More Christmas in July (with Teeth)

The Christmas Alligator Stitched

Yesterday's Christmas in July finishing links reminded me that I hadn't shown off my Jude Designs Christmas alligator yet. It came back from West Coast Finishing about two weeks ago but the heavy rains meant a good photo wasn't possible then. When the rain turned into HotandHumid, I took photos for you to see.   So without further ado, here is Needlepoint by Jude's "Santa Al."
http://www.spicyneedlepoint.com/Christmas_Halloween/default.htm 

Green Velvet Backing

Several people asked about the string of lights attached around the alligator and wrapped around his support pole. These are from the scrapbooking section of my local crafts emporium.   They are little plastic molded light bulbs on a string couched into position.  I sent West Coast Finishing the leftovers and they wrapped them around the support, too.
http://www.joann.com/jolee-s-by-you-holiday-lights/prd47670/

Pedestal with Sparkly Blue Ball to Match Ornament Hanging from Alligator's Tail

West Coast Finishing did a lovely job.  I requested something sturdy and masculine since this is a gift for my brother but otherwise let Sue Parsons do whatever she liked.  I think she did great!

Rickrack and Gold Trim on Edge-No Foofoo Ribbons for This Alligator!

This is the perfect present for the man who never decorates the Christmas tree due to the mess he makes, don't you think?  Hahaha

Many thanks to Sue.  You are the best!

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 SWAN's QE2 Toolbox

Stephanie's stitching SWAN group has met and this time Stephanie has photographed an amazing stitcher's toolbox with a Queen Elizabeth II Royal Jubilee theme.   The compartments fold out to reveal the tools the owner needs when she needs them, then become compact again for storage.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/07/incredible-tribute.html

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

For the Peacock Lovers

Enriched Stitched shows off a class piece and a customer's stitching, both peacock designs.  The peacock ginger jar is a design from Melissa Shirley, while the peacock among flowers is from Maggie.
http://astheneedleturns.com/masterpieces/

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.

Christmas in July

So many shops have Christmas canvases on sale in July that I thought I'd show off some terrific Christmas pieces, just to inspire you in case you bought something holiday you are stitching madly to make finishing deadlines in September and October.   One of Ridgewood's customers stitched a Melissa Shirley double sided angel to use as a Christmas tree topper.  Isn't that an amazing face?  Hope Melissa has seen this one!
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/07/blog-post_17.html

Ruth Schmuff is working on this wonderful Christmas Village scene, also from Melissa Shirley.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/07/happy-4th-of-july.html

Shelly Tribbey has a wonderful round set of Twelve Days of Christmas ornaments.  You can see several of them finished here.
http://www.needlenook.com/stitchers-corner/

Finally, Barbara Bergsten has her set of six Santa Stitches finished and displayed.  I would love to see these in reds, greens and golds!
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2013/07/santa-stitches-needlepoint.html

Stitch faster, there are only 155 days left until Christmas!

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 In The Well

Brenda's written up a lovely article about how she attaches her canvas to stretcher bars with thumbtacks and with the canvas on the bottom, not the top.   This is called "stitching in the well."
http://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2013/07/stitching-in-well-and-framers-tool-to.html

I know several folks who prefer this way of using their stretcher bars.  I suggest you try it on a smaller piece and see what you think. It might just work well for you.  By the way, Brenda shows off a new gadget for the stitcher's toolbox that I've never seen or heard of before--the framer's tool.  She uses it to push in her thumbtacks.  Folks who always dread that chore might take note.  The official name seems to be "picture framer's bradset."
http://www.highlandwoodworking.com/pictureframersbradset.aspx

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.

Love a Belt Canvas But Don't Need a Belt?

If you fall in love with a belt design but don't want a belt, Chapel Hill Needlepoint has a wonderful idea for taking the finishing in a new direction. 
http://chapelhillneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/06/pillow-talk.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.

Gimme Gimme!

Are you a silk fiend? Then you will want to browse Hedgehog Handwork's website to admire the Gilt Sylke Twist, the Silk Collection (assortments of silks and metallics in various shades), and more.  Until August 12th, the website is offering free shipping within the United States.
http://www.hedgehoghandworks.com/catalog/fibers_silkcollections.php

http://www.hedgehoghandworks.com/catalog/gilt_sylke_twist.php

They have things it is hard to find anywhere else, particularly if you need metal threads.

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 about Art versus Craft

To add to yesterday's discussion of art versus craft, please read what Rosalyn has to say about Anna Marie Salehar's work at the top of Stitchamaze's Stitch Talk Column.  I agree that art is all about emotion and when I see how stitchers choose painted canvases to collaborate with the designer on, I know they pick pieces that resonate with their own emotions and lives.  That really is art, isn't it?
http://www.stitchamaze.com/stitch-talk/june09.aspx

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 Needlework All Over England

Kathy has been to Hampton Palace visiting the Royal School of Needlework on a trip to England from her current home base of Berlin. Her report makes me feel like I walked through those gates with her and met crewel enthusiasts from all over the world who are studying there. 
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/07/11/friends-at-the-rsn/

Then she went to the Queen's Gallery to see an exhibit of costume in art.  If you are interested in Elizabethan costume you are going to be enthralled with her report.
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/07/18/in-fine-style/

She's also been to the Victoria and Albert Museum.  Follow the link to see great close ups of the embroidery she saw there.
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/07/20/victoria-and-albert-museum/

What a summer vacation!

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.

Halloween's Funky Scream UPDATED

Ruth Schmuff has announced the fall Mystery class at Bedecked and Beadazzled. It's a screaming ghost done in the funky Hal Mayforth style.  This one's going to be interesting.  It's on 13 count and is 8x11, just a bit smaller than a sheet of typing paper.  (Does anyone call it typing paper anymore?  Am I showing my age?)
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/07/whats-new.html

I can't imagine what Ruth will do with this cartoonish ghost to add bling, interest and laughs to a canvas that isn't my style at all.  I'm betting when Ruth finishes with him, he will be right up my alley, though.

UPDATE:  Here he is, stitched and finished!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2014/04/boo-its-halloween.html

If this is just up your alley but you don't have time for a class in your schedule right now, check out the other Hal Mayforth canvases that Ruth distributes on her website.
https://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/needlepoint/--b-1.asp?category=241

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.

Come to Think About It...

...why aren't more of those stunning pieces we are stitching collected? 
http://lovingstitches.typepad.com/a-needlepoint-journal-abo/2013/07/a-legacy-of-candid-hope.html

All I can say is that we need to document our work so that in 200 years when art collectors discover needlepoint of the late 20th-early 21st Century, they have some idea of who we were and what motivated us.  We are truly under the radar now, blogs, magazines, national seminars and all.  No one notices us and our handwork.

Not yet, anyway.  But someday....
http://www.needlepointsofview.com/about_needlepoint.html

http://ralphwileman.com

P.S.  Many thanks to Liz who found Mr. Wileman's art and alerted me.

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.

ANG 2014 Color Class (Orna Willis)

Some lucky folks who attend the ANG Seminar in 2014 will be playing with color in Orna Willis' class. Isn't this design gorgeous? Apparently each stitcher will make it their own through the choice of advertising photographs. Amazing!
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2013/06/new-design-for-ang-2014.html

Orna is a master of color.  I hope this is available in chart form after Seminar is over.

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 Preview of Needlepoint Now Plus More

Needlepoint Now has published their preview of the latest issue online so that those considering subscribing can see a bit about what the magazine is about. The article also has extra information about the articles chosen, introduces new staffers, and of course has Sandy Arthur explaining the difference between stem and outline stitch, just in case Kathy's explanation didn't really stick with you.   All these goodies are at this link.
http://www.needlepointnow.com/wordpresstest/wp-content/uploads/NN_NWSLTR-0713.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.

Revisiting the Fourth of July

The Fourth of July fireworks have faded, the food is eaten and we are looking forward to Labor Day now but that doesn't mean there aren't some wonderful Fourth of July themed canvases to look for to stitch for 7-4-14.   The Needlepoint Broad/Amanda Lawford has a wonderful fireworks kit available from Needle in a Haystack.
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2013/07/where-are-those-fireworks-from.html

Pocket Full of Stitches showcased a great many patriotic designs for America's birthday on their blog.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2013/07/happy-4th.html

Got a favorite Fourth of July canvas?  Send us a link via Comments or by emailing me directly at chilly hollowat hot maildotcom and I'll post the link for you.

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.

Katherine's Nativity So Far

Katherine shows off the Nativity set from Princess and Me that she is racing through. Each piece is cuter than the last!
http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2013/06/le-nativity-so-far.html

This is a monthly club from What's the Point? Needlepoint in Ohio.
http://www.whatsthepoint.biz/clubs4.cfm

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.

Holy Stitching!

I was amazed and awed to explore the needlepoint in Winchester Cathedral. There are some wonderful pieces of ecclesiastical art here.  If you are going to England and can manage a side visit to Winchester, please take a LOT of photographs!
http://needleprint.blogspot.com/2013/06/stitched-treasures-of-winchester.html

Part of the charm of kneelers and altar clothes is the rich imagery dedicated stitchers add to each piece.  We are lucky that Joan Eidman happens to be working with a local group to design pieces for their holy place and is willing to describe what they are doing in Houston.
http://joaneidman.com/saintly-stitchers/

These are amazing stitchers with amazing dedication.

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.

One Scary Frame!

Actually, there are two Halloween-themed wooden frames for needlework here, but who's counting?!  If you have been looking for just the right frame for a Halloween piece, check these out.
http://doodlinarounddesign.com/products.php?cat=7

If Halloween isn't your thing, not to worry.  DAD also creates laying tools, scissors keepers and knitting accessories plus lap frames and beautiful boxes to keep your supplies in, all made in Wisconsin and beautifully finished.

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.

Hiding in My Box (or Under My Ribbon)

With the help of the increditbly talented Susan Portra, Linda has stitched an amazing version of the Eye Candy cat-in-a-box canvas.  I never would have come up with a beaded fish border!
http://splittheneedles.blogspot.com/2013/06/forever-fred.html

I have another great finishing idea for you--one of Ruth Schmuff's Maggie canvases she used in one of her mystery classes.  It's perfectly finished as a pillow.  There are two versions, by the way.  Check out how the ribbons are perfected attached under a seam!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/06/new-finishes.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.

Digital Books (with Tips)

Like many of us, Sheena has found digital books you can download to your Apple device very useful.  Not all the books available for iPhones/iPod Touches are available for iPads but there's a workaround for many of them in the second link.  Basically you just have to look in the iPhones area and then use 2X to make the books easily readable on the iPad's larger screen.
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/digital-era/

http://www.sheenasstitches.com/digital-addendum/

By the way, Ruth Schmuff's latest eBook isn't compatible with older iPod Touches.  Sigh.   If you try to download something that won't work, the iTunes store will post a warning message.  Keep an eye on what works with what if you don't have the latest thing.

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 Host a Rock Star

Serendipity Needleworks just had Melissa Shirley over for a visit to their shop in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.  They have posted photos on their blog and even more on their Facebook page. Have a gander! 
http://serendipityneedleworks.blogspot.com/2013/07/visit-with-melissa-shirley.html

Hope you can see these whether you have a FB account or not.  After all, every single person is having fun!
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151998553948056&set=a.10151998553523056.1073741828.99087023055&type=1&theater

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 Meredith

Thanks to Barbara Bergsten, we have a link to a news profile of Meredith Willett, teacher, author, shop owner and also the force behind Elizabeth Turner Collection and a fabulous finishing business.  Truly she does it all!
http://www.kentucky.com/2013/06/24/2690196/love-of-needlepoint-turned-lexington.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.

Ten Years of Just Cross Stitch Magazine UPDATED

As you probably know, cross stitch isn't my thing, but today's news will be a welcome one to folks who love this style of needlework and who have been collecting copies of Just Cross Stitch magazine.  The company is releasing ten years' worth of issues on a CD.  A searchable CD!
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2013/06/just-cross-stitch-10-year-cd.html

UPDATE:  Ten years of Sampler and Antique Needlework Quarterly is now available for pre-order.
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2013/07/sanq-10-year-dvd-ready-for-pre-order.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.

Mirabilia Greeting Cards

Here's an idea I'd like to see needlepoint designers use--greeting cards with cross stitch designs on them.  These are from Mirabilia. 
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2013/07/new-mirabilia-greeting-cards.html

If you aren't familiar with Mirabilia's cross stitched ladies, visit her website.
http://www.mirabilia.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.

More Amazing Finishing

Today I have more amazing finishing dished up for admiration. How about this child's director's chair?
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/07/did-absolutely-wonderful-job-stitching.html

CBK shows off the finishing of Starke Art at the bottom of their home page.  A heart shaped frame ornament created from your stash threads?  Wonderful!
http://www.cbkneedlepoint.com

Ruth Schmuff shows off three different ways of finishing her Zecca snowman mystery piece.  I love them all!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/07/cool-down-think-snow.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.

Lady Anne's Needlework Retreat News

If you are in love with crewel embroidery, then you will be interested in reading about this year's retreat set up by Phillipa Turnbull in England.  It sounds like lots of history and stitching will be on the menu.
http://www.crewelwork.com/blog/workshops-retreats/

http://www.crewelwork.com/blog/crewelwork-news/

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.

Tools for Tracing

Mary Corbet has discovered a terrific portable tracing light pad, perfect for her embroidery needs. Many of us won't be tracing onto embroidery fabric but I bet a few of us might find this very useful in our stitching. 
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/07/lightpad-perfect-for-tracing-embroidery-patterns-onto-fabric.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 Has Stash Management Down Cold

What a great idea! 
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/07/thread-management-for-projects-and-stash.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.

Tramme Specialists

I just heard about Najla's Boutique, an online store based in California that specializes in trammed canvases.
http://www.najlasboutique.com/catalog.php?item=71&catid=11&ret=catalog.php%3Fcategory%3D11

Tramme is needlepoint where the design is put on the canvas through long horizontal lines of wool.  The design is finished by stitching on top of the tramme lines in tent stitches, changing color to match the underlying wool color.  You end up with a very traditional piece that wears like iron and has an Old World feel.
http://najlasboutique.com/faqs.php

The best quality tramme canvases used to be produced in Portugal.  I don't know if that is the case now but tramme has been hard to find in this country, so I am thrilled there is a new supplier.

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.

Quail Run Newsletter

Quail Run's latest newsletter is online.  As usual, there is a lot of eye candy, starting with a series of patriotic canvases.  It's July, after all!  There is a floral project underway to admire and lots of finished pieces to goggle at, including the very beautiful Tribute to Helen.  (There are some very talented stitchers in Scottsdale!)  You can also find which trunk show is in the shop, learn how to stitch puffy clouds, admire the classes and clubs available at the shop, and see some of the newest products that have arrived in the store.  It's a fun way to spend the morning.
http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk//launch.aspx?eid=c98358df-6704-4576-97a8-e3f3d72a04e0

If you haven't read any of the past newsletters, they are easy to find on the Quail Run website.
http://www.quailrun-inc.com/index.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.

The Perils of Travel (and the Delights of NP Classes)

Sandy Arthur has been on the road teaching at ANG and EGA chapters. It's not an easy job, but someone has to do it!   It sounds like she had a blast, even if travel is almost as demanding as taking the wagon trains West.
http://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/07/california-dreamin.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.

Now I'm Hungry

These little cupcake ornaments are cute as a bug!  Bet it was harder to stitch just one than it is to eat only one cupcake.  By the way, I'm pretty sure these are from Kirk and Hamilton (now renamed Kirk and Bradley).
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/06/blog-post_23.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.

Is it Stem Stitch or Outline Stitch? UPDATED

I use stem stitch a lot but I am never sure when what I call stem stitch is actually outline stitch. If you are as confused as I am about the difference between the two stitches, you'll want to bookmark this terrific article by Kathy Andrews that clearly explains the different between the two stitches and also talks about S and Z twist threads.   Thanks, Kathy!  This is great!
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/06/30/stem-outline-s-and-z-whew/

UPDATE:  By coincidence Sandy Arthur also explains the difference in these two stitches for the July 2013 preview of Needlepoint Now magazine.
http://www.needlepointnow.com/wordpresstest/wp-content/uploads/NN_NWSLTR-0713.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.

Frances' Camden Rug

Today I have a gorgeous rug to show you from Frances Peterson, who is known for for miniature rug and pillow designs.  It is called the Camden Rug.  I think it is magnificent.
http://petersonpetitpoint.com/index.php?main_page=document_product_info&cPath=3&products_id=66

Frances works on 40 and 48 count silk gauze.  Beautiful work!

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

Recipe for Sparkle

Take one spool of #4 Kreinik braid (any color) and add size 11 clear beads. This is what you get!
http://www.kreinik.com/shops/Basket-Weave-Beading-Technique-with-Kreinik-Threads.html

By the way, it's hard to tell from the video but the beads are attached using Don Lynch's basketweave beading technique.  The beads alternate direction so they look woven.

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 Way to Stitch Fur UPDATED

It would never EVER occur to me to use herringbone stitch to make fur.  Fortunately, Mary Corbet has much more imagination!   She calls this Victorian Tufting and it looks like fun.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/07/stitch-fun-victorian-tufting-fluffy-stuff.html

By the way, Mary also has written an article about Velvet Stitch, another fur like stitch you might be interested in mastering.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/07/stitch-fun-velvet-stitch-some-more-fluff.html

UPDATE:  More Victorian Faux Fur!
http://suetortoise.wordpress.com/embroidery-and-crafts/techniques/victorian-fun-fur/

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 Measure a Needlepoint Belt

Needle Paint explains how to measure a needlepoint belt.  The exact calculation is meant for their custom belt canvases but it probably will help you figure out belt sizes if you don't have a shop nearby.
http://blog.needlepaint.com/2013/06/19/how-to-measure-a-needlepoint-belt/

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

I am Wired

Kreinik has just announced a new wired thread, Wired Facets.  The original Facets looks a little like a string of beads and is perfect for those who like the look of a row of beads but don't want to actually have to deal with them.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2013/07/new-wired-facets.html

This is what regular Facets look like.  The photos really convey the beads effect.  This is the unwired variety.  The wired Facets will look the same except for the "bendability" factor.  Is that a word?  LOL
http://www.kreinik.com/shops/Facets.html

Kreinik already has Hot Wire, which is #16 braid with wire down the middle.   This comes in a variety of colors.  Here's information for comparison purposes.
http://www.kreinik.com/shops/Hot-Wire.html

DMC offers Memory Thread, which is wire wrapped with cotton floss.  This is what it is like.
http://www.dmc-usa.com/Products/Needlework-Threads/Specialty-Threads/Memory-Thread.aspx?technique=Embroidery

Three wired threads, three different effects.  Isn't it good to be a stitcher these days?!

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 by Appointment

Like most fun things, I discovered by accident that the latest Needle Nook University class allows folks to ask questions via Skype by appointment.   The dimensional letters are designed and the class taught by the incomparable David McCaskill.  Looking at the design and reading the description, it occurred to me that this might be a great way for a beginner to stick their toes into the deeper waters of needlepoint fun.  If you have someone in mind to take this class, talk to David first and discover whether this is indeed something they might enjoy.
http://store.needlenook.com/JOY-p36721.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.

Christmas in July--Reindeer Crossing

This custom Christmas piece is one of the funniest things I've seen this month!  I hope Ridgewood posts photos of it once it is stitched and made up.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/06/check-out-debbies-custom-painted.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.

Pocket Histories of Bess and Mary

Gay Ann Rogers' husband is a retired history professor, which certainly came in handy when Gay Ann developed an interest in Queen Elizabeth I and her contemporaries and designed projects using that information.   He has written small booklets on Mary, Queen of Scots and Bess of Hardwick that stitchers interested in English history might want to purchase.
http://gayannrogers.blogspot.com/2013/07/history-for-stitchers-small-booklets-on.html

I've read his supplemental material on Queen Elizabeth I which was part of Gay Ann's Portrait of Queen Elizabeth I class and found the articles interesting, scholarly and informative.  I have not seen these so I can't comment on their value.  There is a brief introduction to the booklets on Gay Ann's website plus links to purchase if you are so inclined.  I don't know how long these will be on sale so I suggest you act sooner rather than later if you are interested.
http://www.gayannrogers.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.

Hug Me

I recently stumbled across the website for Hug Me bags, those fabric tool bags useful for any needle worker who needs to carry their projects around with them or wants a nice portable place to keep the current piece.  Here are the bags they offer.  There re a lot useful for needlepointers, from a carrying bag for the System Four floor stand to bags that will accommodate lap stands to ort and tool boxes.  They even offer snap trays and everything is available in a huge variety of styles and fabrics.
http://www.hugmebags.com/styles.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.

Cross Stitch Your Smart Phone Case

This site allows you to choose a stitchable smart phone case. The types of phone cases are limited and so are the patterns available but it's a fun thing to do for that special someone whose smart phone is always in their hand.
http://3dpcase.sculpteo.com/en/cases/product/phone-cross-stitch-samsung_gs2

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.

Eyelet Tips and Book Recommendation

Every Sunday Needle Works posts a stitch of the week.   I don't usually post about them as I link to the site in the "Online Stitch Diagrams" section at the bottom of Blog but this week the stitch is an eyelet variation with some great tips for stitching any type of eyelet.
http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2013/06/share-a-stitch-june-31.html

Plus Colleen talks a bit about Jane Zimmerman's Canvas Embroidery, which is in two volumes currently.  I've heard nothing but good things about this series although I have not yet broken down and purchased the set.  I did just buy Jane's Background Stitches Volume One.
http://www.janezimmerman.com/Site/Needlework_Books_and_CDs.html

There isn't a Volume Two of Background Stitches yet but I am looking forward to that being published because I really like Background Stitches Volume One.  It's a small booklet with about 43 stitches diagrammed in black and white with a black and white photograph of each worked.  Some stitches have a variation also diagrammed.  The diagrams are small but easy to read.  All have the stitch sequence numbered although it is occasionally hard to read the numbers.  Each page talks about the stitch diagrammed and photographed there briefly with hints such as how easy or hard it is to compensate a certain stitch or recommends whether to use contrasting colors in executing a stitch.  My copy was autographed which is a nice touch since I bought it straight from Jane herself.  (One note:  she mails her books out via media mail so my copy took three weeks to arrive.  It'll be faster to get a copy from your local shop if they stock it.)  Of the stitches in the book, about a third were totally new to me.  Many are subtle variations of more familiar stitches.  All are great backgrounds for the right canvas.  If you have an extensive library of stitch dictionaries, this won't repeat what you already own.  If you are a beginning stitcher, or don't own a lot of stitch books, you might want to spend the money on a book with more content, but it is a very good source for those who are looking for something different.

You can peek inside of Background Stitches Volume One here.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/06/whats-new.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.

Five Tips for A Successful Needlepoint Project

When I ran across this posting from a new stitcher listing the five tips she learned from her first needlepoint project, it got me thinking. What are the five most important stitching tips I've learned Ifrom my decades of needlepointing?
http://seamstresserin.com/5-tips-for-successful-needlepoint-projects/

Here's my list:

1. Wash your hands before you start stitching and repeat this periodically during a long stitching session.
2. Discard your needles from the last project when you start a new project.
3. Pay careful attention to starting and ending threads.
4. Choose classic projects you will not tire of and stitch them with the best materials you can find.
5. Never stitch when you are really tired.

What are your tips?

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 Background

Denise of the Stitching Sisters has posted a photograph of a fantastic Barbara Elmore class she took with Linda.   Take careful note of the background.  It is completely covered except for the flower heads and stems with one stitch, background and leaves both.  The stitch is an open darning stitch so the colors of the leaves show through nicely without your having to switch threads or stitches.  Then the stems are stitched (I think that is a padded satin stitch) and the flower centers beaded.  The final touch are some simple ribbon stitches in sheer ribbons.  It's really a perfect quick and easy project to learn to use beads and ribbons and open stitches.  
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2013/06/a-finish-summer-flowers.html

See?  Backgrounds don't have to be hard!

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 the Lost Art Yarn and Needlepoint Shop

Diane has been in Michigan, where she was able to visit The Lost Art Yarn and Needlepoint shop in Traverse City.  The shop's for sale, by the way, in case you are thinking you might move to Michigan and open a shop of your own....
http://www.dianestakingtimeouttoneedlepoint.com/2013/06/traveling-and-needlepoint-great.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.

Surprise from dede

Needle Works has a surprise for us--a new book from dede Odgen. No one has seen this year so I have no details but dede's fans will be interested in keeping their eyes open for reviews and more news as this becomes more available.   
http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2013/07/share-a-stitch-july-7.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.

Organizational Database for iPhone and PC UPDATED AGAIN

Brenda has added a list of her favorite smart phone apps to her blog. This article talks a bit about her thread organization database. To see the list of apps, click on the X in the upper right hand corner of the article and then choose the Apps tab. 
http://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2013/06/favorite-apps.html

It looks like the eBooks are all from the iTunes store which means they only work on Apple phones and devices.  I don't know if the database is PC compatible or useable on Android phones.  If you want to do a bit more research, here's the HanDBase site.
http://www.ddhsoftware.com/handbase.html

UPDATE:  Brenda describes how this works on her iPhone and PC.  Essentially she has a database of thread brands with type information that links to a database that lists all her threads.  She can sort by project, color number and much much more.  If you love databases and organization, this is definitely something to explore.
http://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2013/07/handbase-threads-inventory-database.html

MORE UPDATES:  Brenda explains how she set up her database, very useful information for those of us who are interested in HanDBase or databases in general.
http://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2013/08/handbase-projects-database.html

And now she is using Excel, too.
https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2018/03/project-list-and-thread-inventory.html

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

For the Love of Stitching

Karen of The Pine Needle Shop just shared information about the needlepoint "road show" she and Jill at The Needlepointer have organized for September for Castle Pines, Colorado.  Mark your calendars!  Here's what Karen said--

"The Colorado Needlepoint Road Show will be held September 6th, 7th and 8th of September, 2013 at Castle Pines North Community Center.

The American Needlepoint Guild Inc. (ANG) defines needlepoint as any counted or free stitchery worked by hand with a threaded needle on a readily countable ground. According to The National Needle Arts Association, Needlework has been around almost as long as humans have clothed themselves. It goes back at least as far as the ancient Egyptians, who used small slanted stitches to sew their tents. I can tell you, it’s not your Grandmother’s needlework any longer. Our industry has come along way since 1500 b.c.

Jill Likes, owner of the Needlepointer in Everett, Washington, along with Karen Barton, owner of The Pine Needle Shop in Castle Pines, Colorado, will be hosting a weekend of what Needlepoint has to offer in 2013. There will be hand painted canvases by internationally known artists such as Melissa Shirley, Kathy Schenkel, Kelly Clark, Susan Wallace Barnes, Warren Kimble, Maggie Co, Birds of a Feather and more.

Some of the country’s latest fibers will be on sale by Planet Earth, silk ribbon by River Silks and the very popular overdyed threads by ThreadworX.

There will be classes offered for beginner stitchers to intermediate stitcher to advanced stitchers. New stitchers will learn the basics of needlepoint and be able to take home a project they can admire and use for years to come. Intermediate stitchers will learn the art of thread painting, beading, and working with ribbon. There will also be a hand painted canvas by Melissa Shirley Class taught by our own Colorado native, Janet Gebow, certified Master Teacher Journeyman Level from the American Needlepoint Guild.

Join us for a weekend of learning, networking with other stitchers, meeting new friends, shopping, and a fun weekend of sharing a love of stitching. For more detailed information you can email us at pineneedleshop@hotmail.com and “like" us at facebook.com/ColoradoNeedlepointRoadshow."

Thanks for the invitation, Karen!

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.