Errata

If you work from charts or stitch guides a lot, you know that human error creeps in. There can be errors that are not caught until stitchers get their hands on the goods. Laura Perin has discovered a problem with the instructions for her Long Horse Collage. There's a typo in the thread list. 
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/08/a-correction-reminder-hint.html

Joan Eidman has also found a typo in her thread list for her Holly St. Nicholas.  If you have either of these in your stash, mark the change in your copy.
http://joaneidman.com/stitch-guide-errata/

Thanks for the updates, 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.

News from Needlepoint Now

Another editor newsletter has been released for Needlepoint Now. It's a behind the scenes update to keep us informaed until the September-October issue is in the mailbox. 
http://www.needlepointnow.com/wp-content/uploads/NN_NWSLTR-0813.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.

Sampler and Antique Needlework Quarterly on DVD

Sampler and Antique Needlework Quarterly magazine now is on DVD. You can pick up ten years' worth of issues in a searchable DVD format.   I am not a sampler person but even I can appreciate the beauty and information packed into this publication.  More information here-- 
http://www.anniescatalog.com/detail.html?code=ANDV01&source=XSNEWS&utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=justcrossstitch

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.

Finishing Friday (with Stardust)

Today's Finishing Friday!  Enjoy Ada Hayden's finished pieces, from Christmas trees that are happy and a jolly round pumpkin standup to a darling purse. 
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2013/08/finished-for-friday.html

Pocket Full of Stitches has photos of the 3-D design models from the dede Odgen trunk show they are hosting. There are houses, a chair and a bear, but the fishing frog is outstanding.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2013/08/dede-trunk-show-3-d.html

Nimble Needle has brought gorgeous pillows and charming little ornaments to the party.  By the way, I agree with her about Stardust.  It's a fabulous thread but comes in limited colors, sadly.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/08/customers-work.html

Stardust is from Brown Paper Packages, the geniuses behind Silk and Ivory, and Trio.  It's not mentioned on their website but I did find a list of the available colors.  Basically, the thread is Silk and Ivory with a metallic woven in.  It is gorgeous stuff.  The metallic colors vary according to the color of the base thread.  In other words, it isn't just a gold or silver.
http://www.needlestack.com/WebStore/Thread/BPP_Stardust.html

The four original colors in Stardust are shown here.  LOVELY!
http://www.stitchersworkshop.com/largedetails.php?Product_ID=219&prodType=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.

Terry at the 2014 ANG Seminar

Want a good luck at the 2014 ANG Seminar class Terry Dryden is teaching? 
http://www.terrydryden.com/-blog/2013/8/8/a-trio-of-poppies.html

Poppies!  Gosh, they are pretty.  Notice that the background sky and ground is the same but different levels, and how similar/different the borders are on each piece.  Each flower has variations, too.  Very clever lady, that Terry Dryden!

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

Needle Nicely Hits St. Charles

Needle Nicely has written about her trip to St. Charles, complete with photos of some of the canvases Mary Agnes brought home that will appeal to her local customers or the snow birds that flock to Florida in the cooler months.   We customers tend to forget that shops in various parts of the country have very different clienteles.  Everyone looks for a canvas about the place where they spent a pleasant holiday; East Coast people love belt canvases while on the California coast belt canvases don't sell; etc. Bet you will find it very interesting what your shop's customers prefer if you ask the next time you see your shop owner!
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2013/08/saint-charles-tnna-market.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.

On the Road with Diane

Diane's doing the Visit the Child routine these days, so she was in Raleigh, NC and visited Needlepoint.com. Here's a description of the loot, ahem, purchases she came home with. 
http://www.dianestakingtimeouttoneedlepoint.com/2013/08/visiting-needlepointcom.html

If you want to get in on the sales, here is their website.
http://www.needlepoint.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.

Writing a Book about Needlework

Ever wonder what it is like to write a book about needlepoint?  Sue Dulle gives us a glimpse of all the work behind the pages with this brief explanation of why her book on Or Nue projects took so long to come out.   Of course her book has two projects described in it, which is a little different than a book that is all about stitch diagrams, but some of the same challenges are involved in each type of publication.  
http://sudukc.wordpress.com/2013/08/06/3794/

Sometimes I wonder how any books get published at all!

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

A Trip to St. Charles With Sue

Instead of putting this with the other St. Charles reports, I thought you should see this by itself because Sue Dulle, who was at TNNA in her professional capacity, explained so well what it was all like.   Thank you, Sue!
http://sudukc.wordpress.com/2013/08/27/to-market-to-market/

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

Needlepoint Now Makeover

Needlepoint Now has revamped their website.  They've added an events section where seminars, exhibits, etc. can be listed and under "Resources" there is a finishers index which lists finishers.  I can't figure out how to get to a second page of finishers but I discovered that if you increase the number of items shown you can see everybody.  Of course their video instruction section continues to grow, making this a great place to visit when you just can't figure out a stitch.
http://www.needlepointnow.com

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

Bead Your Brains Out

Linda shows off all the beads on her little Melissa Shirley cracker piece (stitch guide by Robin King and Melissa Shirley herself).
http://splittheneedles.blogspot.com/2013/08/bead-fix-complete.html

I have to admit I've never heard of E6000 glue, but I was able to find a few things out about it from the Michael's website.  Sounds like it is something any large craft store will carry.  It's always good to know about the varieties of glue that people use, even if you won't have glue without a mile of your stitching.
http://www.michaels.com/E-6000®/gc0181,default,pd.html

Oh, if you want to know more about the Golden Crackers club Linda's working on, here's the link.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2012/07/golden-christmas-crackers-by-melissa.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.

Missouri State Fair Winner Profile

Edward Castle stitched four pieces for the Missouri State Fair this year, and won ribbons for all of them! You can read a bit about him and see a photo of him posing with his exhibits and ribbons here. (Thanks for finding this, Debby!) 
http://www.missourinet.com/2013/08/20/retired-marine-95-takes-honors-at-state-fair-for-needlepoint-projects/

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.

Fray BLOCK?

I'd never heard of Fray Block until the ANG email list--that font of needlepoint knowledge--mentioned it to a stitcher looking for help with a thread that frayed as it was being stitched.   I have a bottle of Fray Check that I dab on the ends of my threads occasionally, but Fray Block is different apparently.  What's the difference?

Fray Check comes in a bottle.  It is a plastic that dries clear.  
http://www.joann.com/dritz-fray-check-3-4-oz-/prd2992/

Fray Block comes in a tube.  It is a plastic that dries clear and apparently is more flexible than Fray Check.
http://www.joann.com/june-tailor-fray-block-1-1-2-oz-/prd10294/

Here is more information about Fray Block, including what to do if it is old.
http://junetailor.com/FAQs/FAQ_PressingGeneralNotions_Fray%20Block.htm

People also use clear fingernail polish for the same thing.  At Joann's Fray Block is cheaper.  That may be because the tube holds less than the Fray Check bottle.  It looks like which you use is personal preference. If you have experience using both Fray Check and Fray Block, do let us know what you think in the comments or email me at chilly hollow at hot maildot com and I'll post 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.

The Caron Guide

Looks like Caron has published a color guide to both their solid colored threads and the overdyes. 
http://store.apneedlearts.com/caco.html

Judie from Alex Paras says that the Variegated Color Guide is not available right now from her online shop.  She also told me that the Variegated and Solid Color Guides are a color card with good photos of each currently available color and has tips for each thread on the back page.  Folks who love collecting color cards should see if their local shop has these in stock.

Caron does have an online color card and a section of their website about their thread lines but the online photos of the colors are small, so this physical color card may be very useful for mail order.  Besides, who is online all the time anyway?
http://www.caron-net.com/tcolor.html

http://www.caron-net.com/threads.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 Janet Haigh

Ehrman Design in Britain is introducing a new designer--Janet Heigh--with a video of her talking about her work.   Watching it is wonderful for a lazy Sunday morning.

Note the other videos at the bottom of the page.  If you are a fan of Kaffe Fassett, don't miss those!
http://www.ehrmantapestry.com/videos/story/Janet-Haigh.aspx?page=1

 If you are curious, you can see her kits at this link. Some of the shoe designs are on sale, by the way. 
http://www.ehrmantapestry.com/designer-products.aspx?id=f47c9eab-b753-47af-a88e-be3d96a2008e

Here is Janet's design and textile blog.
http://janethaigh.wordpress.com

Well done, Ehrman!

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.

Consider Ball Fringe

Liz, ever practical, choose ball fringe for finishing a Halloween project that has to travel quite a ways to its new home.   
http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2013/07/halloween-kitty-stand-up.html

I believe this is an Amanda Lawford design, by the way.  Yes, here it is!
http://www.amandalawford.com/products/holiday.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.

St. Charles TNNA Starts

Photos of new items are starting to appear from St. Charles. They are all listed, latest on top, at the green tab labeled "TNNA St. Charles August 2013."  Click to see what's going on there, then return to Blog's main page by clicking on the Home tab.

Have fun.  Don't drool on your keyboard!  I'll update again tonight after supper.

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.

Two Needle Blended Skies Aren't Identical

Take two canvases and stitch their skies with the same thread colors in the needle blending technique and they will not look alike.  Anne Stradal, master of needle blended skies, explains why here.  Thank you, Anne!  I did not know this.
http://thecapestitcher.blogspot.com/2013/07/two-skies-side-by-side.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.

ANG Auction Allows Absentee Bids

For the very first time ANG is going to allow absentee bids on the forty-nine items in the Live Auction at the ANG Seminar. You can tour all the items available here.
http://ang.afrogs.org/items/browse/index.html?category_id=&bidhop=&sortby=&start=0

The process is explained at the main Live Auction page.  Good luck to all the bidders!
http://ang.afrogs.org

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.

Breaking News: Petei is Back! UPDATED

Chapel Hill just posted this in their e-newsletter--

"Breaking News!! Painted Pony has just announced that they will be distributing Petei Needlepoint Designs. Petei's fans have missed their availability - Chapel Hill Needlepoint can now order from the Petei line! Designs will be introduced gradually with the initial catalog of approximately 30 Santas and other small ornaments available soon. Call to inquire about your favorites!"

UPDATE: I heard from Debbie Woodard, founder of Painted Pony via Facebook last night. Debbie was kind enough to update everyone with this--

"Since you have mentioned Petei santas on your blog, I thought you and your NP Nation followers would be interested in knowing I am distributing Petei's line beginning at the show this weekend. Because of the enormous volume of her line we will reintroduce in little lots over the next year. We are showing about thirty Santas, three snowmen, ten tiny "I love" mini-socs and most of her nativity set and her sorority hearts and socks at St. Charles. Expect first round production to take about 8 weeks...."

Thanks, Debbie, both for the update and for brining Petei canvases back to life!

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

Friday Finishing: Adding Birds to the Nest

Ridgewood's blog shows a different sort of finishing this morning:  A canvas of a bird feeding her babies in the next comes with a basket to make your own bird's nest.   I can see the canvas as the top of a little padded round cushion made to fit inside the basket.  Very clever!
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/08/stitch-canvas-of-mother-feeding-her.html

Want to see some great Halloween finishing?  Three pieces, three different styles of finishing, all Spook-tacular!
http://needlepointland.com/2012/10/25/happy-hauntings/

The frog's pretty great, too!
http://needlepointland.com/2012/10/11/heeeeerrrreees-freddy/

Donna's finished her Moxie label and it is back from the framer,  CUTE!
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2013/08/moxie.html

This is an original design she did from a Moxie soft drink label.  It's a New England thing, apparently.  The framed piece is very nice but you can't see the background stitching well under the glass, so check this finished but unframed photo.
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2013/07/friday-update.html

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

Mical Aloni

Trish Burr profiled Mical Aloni on her blog this morning.  Mical does amazing embroidered portraits.  Follow the links to a biography and more embroidery.  If anyone lives near Taos, you might see if you can find the gallery Mical and her husband opened there in 2003.  I hope she is still stitching but we know life gets in the way occasionally.
http://trishburr.com/2013/07/29/the-embroideries-of-mical-aloni/

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 Chapter Plus One Shop Equals Magic

Melita's local ANG chapter worked with Nimble Needle to do a class with a project using new threads. It turned out great!  If your local chapter is looking for ideas and you have a great shop nearby, you might want to try something similar.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/07/apple-needlepointers-comes-to-visit-and.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.

Laura's Ready for Seminar!

AMG's Seminar is happening at the same time as the TNNA trade show.   I hope to have lots of Seminar reports for you.  For now, Laura Perin has sent lots of goodies to the Seminar shop.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/08/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.

Facets Saves the Day

Barbara Elmore shows off her latest teaching project and how Kreinik's new Wired Facets made the final finishing touch to the design. 
http://www.stitchpography.blogspot.com/2013/08/it-couldnt-have-been-more-perfect.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.

Pop Top Thread

Kreinik has posted a video on line about how to pop the top of a Kreinik spool to remove the thread.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151495354050940&set=vb.104419880939&type=2&theater

It took me ages to figure out how to get the thread off a Kreinik spool.  Hopefully this video will help the ignorant like me solve the puzzle of the pop top thread spool.

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 Embroider a Fox or Bead a Star

Ever wanted to embroider a fox?  Kris Degrave takes you through the process step by step.  It's a great tutorial on animal faces and how to use colors to create a realistic critter.
http://howdidyoumakethis.com/hand-stitched-fox/

Not into foxes?  How about beaded stars?
http://howdidyoumakethis.com/beaded-stars/

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 a Reminder....

TNNA's fall trade show in St. Charles, Missouri is this weekend. Classes are on Friday and the trade show floor is open for business Saturday and Sunday. This is a "cash and carry" show, which means shops will be able to purchase items to carry home to have in your favorite shop next week.   I have been updated the TNNA St. Charles August 2013 tab pretty regularly this week as new items are publicized online.  Click on the tab to see that section of Blog, then click on Home to come back to the main page.

I've also been updating the CH Stitch Guides blog pretty regularly this week.  There are a group of dog themed stitch guides available from Robin King, a whole slew of stitch guide writers have tackled Tapestry Tent's "Moonlight Tea Party," Changing Woman Design has updated her website to list canvases with stitch guides available, and Needlepoint Land has the first free stitch guide you can dance to.  As always, either click on the link below, or click on the magic carpet icon on the right side of the page to fly over there to see all the new postings.  You can return via magic carpet here as well.
http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

I hope there are lots of new postings about the new items available at TNNA starting Friday.  Stay tuned.

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

Tapestries

There are a lot of fans of the Bayeux Tapestry who read Blog so I thought I would post a quick article about the Apocalypse Tapestry of Angers and a film that shows off Henry VIII's tapestries.  The Apocalypse Tapestry is just that--it shows the Apocalypse arriving on Earth in unforgettable monsters and devils.  I wish I knew more about the allegories these things represent.  There is a bit of French narration but not much if you watch the video.
http://needleprint.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-apocalypse-tapestry-of-angers.html

Henry VIII's ten tapestries that tell the story of Abraham are still in Hampton Palace.  The first link is an introduction and the second link shows one being cleaned.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xzp6CVZnh8c

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASbcok7m_y0

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.

No One Was Hurt

Sign of the Arrow in Missouri was closed for a bit this week after a car sailed through their door and window!  Thankfully no one was hurt in this escapade.
http://www.ksdk.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=393190

They are open again with plywood securing the shop until repairs can be made.
http://ladue-frontenac.patch.com/groups/announcements/p/sign-of-the-arrow-has-reopened


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 for August

Hurrah!  The August newsletter for Quail Run is now available! Besides listing the upcoming classes and events, talking about various ideas for belt canvas finishing (besides belts), you can read interesting ideas for stitching leaves and flowers, and see some spectacular finished items from shop customers.  My favorite piece is the lady on page 14.  Check out her spiral of hair and the complex stitches that make up her eyes, plus she has a real necklace and earrings!  The newsletter profiles Facets, Petite Facets and Wired Facets from Kreinik, too.  
http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk//launch.aspx?eid=172fd342-7f58-48e6-9e4f-13e62c96d276

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 Village

Sue's been on vacation in the Dakotas and she takes us along to visit Village Needleworks in Omaha where she stopped on the way home.  Want to read about the first half of her trip?  Just click on the blue title "Travel Blog:  South Dakota" at the top of the article and you can read that, too.
http://sudukc.wordpress.com/2013/07/26/south-dakota-part-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.

Anyone Recognize This? UPDATED

Anyone Recognize This?

Does anyone recognize the designer of this lovely group of ladies? A friend is interested in this piece which we found on In Stitches' shop blog. Sadly, the photo was from some years back and the shop doesn't remember the name of the designer as they specialize in counted thread, not needlepoint. Any help would be appreciated! 

You can leave a comment here or if comments don't work for you, just email me directly at chilly hollow athotmail dot com.  Thanks!

UPDATE:  Martin found this via Google Images on a cross stitch site.  It is apparently the work of a Polish designer.  I think the photo above is a painted canvas, though.  If anyone knows who distributed it, I would love to know.
http://www.cross-stitch-patterns.eu/?stat=a&user=Nickole214&how=on&sortuj=szukaj&stat=a&strona=2

Thanks Martin.  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.

Bring Your Stitching to Life

Many of you have heard Susan Portra's motto, "Bring Your Canvas to Life." I am pretty sure that this is NOT what she meant!  But you know, bringing painted canvases to life is just what we do, except we mostly use needle and thread.
http://needlepointland.com/category/video/

The above is an introduction to Erin McGrath, the mind behind Needlepoint Land.  Pour yourself your favorite beverage and start exploring!  I'm not going to tell you what you'll find but there is gold here.  It is up to you to roam around and find the buried treasure.

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.

Magnets and Fobs

Pocket Full of Stitches has posted photos of new items in the shop, including new magnetsfrom Merry L Prints.   Some of these are unique, particularly the Cozy Needle Rest Magnet, which appears to be gathered felt.  It's a nice way to keep your needle rust free if they did use real one hundred percent wool felt.  The company also has The Needle Stops Here and The Scissors Hang Here magnets and fobs.  Merry L Prints is the company that did the beaded scissor fobs and magnets for Amy Bunger's current Tudors class and you can see a few of the beaded medallion style fobs on the Merry L Prints Facebook page.  You can also see some of the new rhinestone scissor fobs from Elizabeth Turner Collection.  These are wonderful charms to keep your scissors easy to find in the stitching chair and unique when you are in class with a bunch of other stitchers and need to keep your scissors apart from every one else's.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2013/07/canvases-fobs-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.

Pagoda Love UPDATED

Are you crazy for Asian themed canvases like me? Then you will love Jenny Henry's Pagoda Love series. Classic!  I am not sure which Fantasy Pagoda I like best, being torn between NPI5 and NPI8, but they are all wonderful.
http://jennyhenrydesigns.wordpress.com/2013/06/03/pagoda-love/

http://www.needlepointinc.com/d_pillow_pagoda.html

UPDATE:  Another lovely pagoda.  I'm sorry I don't know who the designer is.
http://needlepointland.com/2012/07/29/pagoda-under-a-serious-moon/

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 for using Water Soluble Pens

I use blue marking pens on my canvases quite often but they do have drawbacks. I've had blue pen lines never vanish at all and I've had them disappear overnight. It all depends on the weather and humidity, I think. Read the labels, too. Some pens are removed by water and set by heat, so you need to be careful in the heat of summer where you leave your stitching.   If it falls into the pool or gets baked by the sun while waiting for you in a hot car, you are not going to be happy.

DMC sells water soluble pens and has posted tips on getting the most out of their brand.  It's worth a read if you ever plan to use these.
http://dmc-threads.com/water-soluble-pens/

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.

Bling Your Problems Away

My Background Hates Me

After I finished my latest Top Secret project for Leigh Designs to preview at the St. Charles trade show, I turned my attention back to my Dr Who canvas.   When you last saw this canvas, I had finally decided on a background.
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2013/06/the-second-background-dr-who-part-three.html

Things went downhill from there.  First, I ran out of the tan Trebizond.  A friend came to my rescue with two more spools, but they were slightly lighter than the dyelot I had been using.    I also noticed that the Trebizond in brick stitches allowed some white canvas to peek through.  Then I had trouble at the join between the background and the face of the Doctor.  Then I couldn't find a color to put in the left side background between the rows of blue waves where you see the white canvas peeking through.

Sigh. Sometimes a canvas just hates you.  Fortunately, that's when I get the most creative--when I have a problem child canvas.  Let's tackle the problems in reverse order, ok?

I could not find a color that seemed to work well as tent stitches between the blue wavy background stitch on the left side of the Doctor.  I finally decided I liked the white area that shows so I left it as is.  Please don't tell anyone I have naked canvas here!  LOL

As you can see if you look closely at the photo above, I took out the brick stitches near the left side of the Doctor's face and used tent stitches instead.  I also outlined the jawline a bit with the darkest skin color to help differentiate between the face and the background.  The tan background and pink skin colors are not the same but they are similar in value and sometimes that is enough to make it hard to distinguish between colors.  Did I ever tell you about the time I stitched a background in pale green and pale violet and the two colors disappeared?  This sort of color magic can work against you sometimes but a little outlining solved this issue when I used tent stitches next to the tan and pink areas.  Yes, occasionally you solve one problem and create another.  Told you this background hates me!

The brick stitches not always covering well in Trebizond was an issue.  Also having a distinct line between two dyelots was a problem.  I could have solved both issues by ripping out the entire brick stitch area and restitching it with another thread in brick stitch.  If I'd had a similar shade of tan in Impressions, I would have done just this.  I love the tan color which is perfect for this design but not having a shop near me is certainly a problem.  I finally decided to just live with the canvas "dandruff" which isn't too noticeable except to experienced stitchers.

I am going to hide the dyelot change by applying lots and lots of beads and crystals to the area where one dyelot of Trebizond meets another.

Did you think adding beads to your canvas was just because we are all magpies at heart?!  NO!!  Bling hides a multitude of problems.  Is your stitch a little awkward in places?  Toss beads on top and no one will ever know.  My problem is a little worse that that so I added both beads and some of those new 3mm flat back Swarovski crystal sequins.

Add Bling and What's a Dyelot Between Friends?

Here's how Dr. Who Eleven looks right now.  With the right finishing on the edges of the canvas only you and I will ever know that the background gave me such fits!

Of course I am not advocating stitching less than your best but sometimes we lack the threads, energy, well, or whatever to make a problem area the best it can be.  In those instances, get creative and it is amazing what you can achieve.

Now I am going to turn my attention back to Luna.  Remember Luna?

About Time You Finished 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.

Julia and Vicky and Robin On The Road

Julia Snyder was just at Bedecked and Beadazzled and now is headed to Enriched Stitch! Vicky DeAngelis was just at Enriched Stitch! Then Robin King was at The Needle Bug! The teaching circuit is in full force now that the weather is good.  If you want a peak at what their classes are like or you just want to check out the shop interior shots, try the links below.  I hope the teaching circuit includes your favorite shop so you can have more fun than is probably legal, too.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/a-beautiful-day-in-the-neighborhood-2/

http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/the-enriched-stitch/

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/07/the-r-word.html

http://astheneedleturns.com/julia-snyder-is-coming-to-town/

http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-needle-bug-wrap-up-2013.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.

Finishing Friday

For today's Finishing Friday, I have some wonderful dimensional stuffed animals from Tapestry Fair.   They are all in basketweave, which seems to enhance the pretty patterns.  One of my correspondents is really into 3-D animals and has two of the Tapestry Fair critters underway, so this is for her!
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2013/08/tapestry-fair-trunk-show-day-5.html

Needle Nicely has just finished a garland of starfish but the real star here is the custom cording the shop made to string the starfish on.  You can see how this is done for huge rugs, too!
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2013/08/starfish-garland-finished.html

Want to see some charming simple ornaments?
http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2013/08/fabulous-finishing.html

Finally, here is a lovely classic done mostly in basketweave and finished in a calm, restful style.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/08/blog-post_10.html

Finishing can be quite expensive, so I thought you'd enjoy reading about how DebBee's Designs manages to finish all those models without going bankrupt.
http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/2013/08/07/the-finish-line/

She even makes her own tassels and cording!
http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/2013/08/13/o-christmas-tree/

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 Stitch a White Moth on White Canvas

Barbara Elmore is one of the more interesting designers of needlepoint we have working today. Her painted canvases are distributed by Sundance Designs and Barbara also teaches.  She specializes in special effects in her classes.  Here is what she did at Needle Bug in Montgomery.
http://www.theneedlebug.com/blog2/2013/07/barbara-elmore/

First you stitch a white moth on white canvas.  Then Barbara has you watercolor the canvas and moth.  Then you stitch on top of the watercolors when they dry and I suspect there is a gold stencil or two involved as well.  I think I see beads, too.

There is a better picture of the finished Las Flores de Noche on Barbara's website.  Just click on Teaching Pieces.
http://www.barbaraelmoredesigns.com/barbaraelmoredesigns.com/Canvases/Canvases.html

Take special note of Barbara's canvases on the Sundance website.  About two thirds of the way down the page there is a Fuchsia and also an Iris design that is a companion.  The Fuchsia will be stitched by me next winter....
http://www.sundancedesignsonline.com/catalog.php?LimitRows=all

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

ANG Seminar on the Horizon

The 2013 ANG Seminar in California is almost here!  Vicky's packing and anticipating!  This year Seminar is August 23-30 in Garden Grove, California, and overlaps with the TNNA trade show in St. Charles, Missouri (just outside St. Louis).
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/its-almost-here/

You can read more about Seminar on the ANG website.  If you live in the Anaheim, CA area, I hope you can at least stop by and visit the exhibit and bookstore.  These are open to anyone who loves needlepoint or is curious about it.
http://www.needlepoint.org/Seminar-13/index.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.

Mermaids Galore

Sheena showed off a new canvas I hadn't seen before recently--a companion Sandra Vargas mermaid to the one Ruth Schmuff used for her summer mystery class this year.  Isn't she cute?  I'd stitch little darning stitch seahorses in the background to make her more of a pair with the green mermaid Ruth stitched.   You could also use darning stitch lotus blossoms in the background if you want a mermaid in the pink lotus waters of the ocean or you can use the bubbles stitch Sheena thoughtfully included in her article.
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/swimming-with-the-mermaids/

Seeing the Sandra Vargas mermaids made me want to find other mermaid canvases to enjoy.  Here are the results of my searches--
http://www.stitchtherapyneedlepoint.com/subjects.php?subject=mermaids

http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=mermaid&x=0&y=0

http://www.needlepoint.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=mermaid

http://store.needlenook.com/cart.php?m=search_results&search=mermaid

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 Response--Mermaids!

I'd like to thank everyone who answered my question about what they'd like to see Blog do and how well my changes and improvements match what they want out of my needlepoint essays. I'm still answering emails, one or two a day, so I'll eventually get back to everyone who took time to write.  However, almost everyone said they missed frequent reports on my stitching.  I will be posting about my own stitching again shortly, but until I get around to it, I thought you might like to revisit the little Melissa Shirley mermaid canvas I stitched three summers ago at Beloved's request. The link below is my first posting.  Just keep clicking "Newer Post" at the bottom of the article below the Comments section to read the whole thing.  I was on a tight deadline for this so there isn't much you will have to skip over.
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/05/whimsey-mermaid.html

Hope this keeps everyone happy until I get enough stitching done here to show off current pieces!

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 Stitch A Cane Backed Chair

Just in case you have a chair with a woven back or seat.... 
http://with-my-needle.blogspot.com/2013/07/i-want-this-chair.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.

Handmade Tools for the Discriminating Needle Worker

Thanks to Faccebook, I have a link to a website of an artisan who makes wooden tools for needleworkers. I particularly like the wooden scissor case with the magnet you hang around your neck to keep your embroidery scissors safe until needed.  Have fun browsing!
http://www.woodbyc.com/Y1_aSEWING_ESSENTIALS_WOODbyC.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.

Edwardian Needle to Reopen in September

Fans of The Edwardian Needle (of whom I am one) will rejoice to hear the shop will reopen sometime around September 6 at their new location of 390 Fairfield Avenue, Fairfield, NJ.  When it is closer to the opening date I'll see if I can get more exact information.
http://www.theedwardianneedle.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 Bonny Prince and His Tapestry

Since we've been watching Kathy's study of the Bayeux Tapestry and her stitching of one section, I thought you would like to see an amazing modern piece that tells part of the story of Bonny Prince Charlie's 1745 campaign.  This huge tapestry is known as the Prestonpans Tapestry.
http://needleprint.blogspot.com/2013/08/prestonpans-tapestry-worlds-longest.html

If you are not a Scot, you may never have heard the romantic tale of Prince Charles Edward Stuart and his quest to conquer England.  It's a tale worthy of several tapestries!
http://www.history.co.uk/biographies/bonnie-prince-charlie.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 Church Report

Sandy shared some pictures of ecclesiastical embroidery she took while in England a while back. I wish I understood the symbolism of the designs. Heck, I wish I'd been on the trip with her! Don't miss the baptism photo at the very bottom of her blog. I think it is cross stitch but I am not sure. 
http://stitchinginsunnycal.blogspot.com/2013/07/bluuuuuuuue-moon-you-saw-me-standing.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.

Scissor Pull? Is That Related to a Tractor Pull?

It took me a minute to wrap my head around the term "scissor pull" since it is almost time for our county fair.  Ours boasts both a tractor pull and a horse pull as major events. (One year they had a lawn mower pull. Sorry I missed that.)   Turns out when Mary Corbet says scissor pull, she means one of those retractable scissor clips that you pin to a shirt and keep your scissors on so you have them at hand (instead of on the floor or buried in the couch cushions) when you need them.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/07/whats-a-scissor-pull.html

Guess I should get mine out of the stitching toolbox and use it, huh?  Gotta get in shape when we needlepointers show up at the fair, ready to face off scissor to scissor!

I think I just invented a new event.  Think it'll be as popular as deep fried Twinkies?

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.

Too Good for Pie

Ruth Chow's dimensional vegetables were the first 3-D canvases I ever remember seeing that were not stuffed animals (bears, elephants, pigs, etc.). They often are beaded and beribboned and are works of art.  Isn't Brenda's pumpkin too wonderful to make into pie?
http://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2013/07/pumpkin-3d-designed-by-ruth-chow.html

http://www.chandailneedlework.com/shop/Series/Beaded-Fruit/p/Beaded-Fruit--The-Works.htm

http://www.chandailneedlework.com/shop/Series/Beaded-Vegetables/p/Beaded-Vegetables.htm

I keep thinking what a harvest display all of these would make piled in a crystal dish or on a silver cake stand in a dining room....

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.

Tudor Rose Online Course Teaches Historical Techniques

Tricia has just announced a new mini course on composite gold and silk detached stitches.  This will be of great interest to needleworkers who are interested in Stuart and Tudor embroidery or people who just want to learn something new and different.  Details here.
http://thistle-threads.com.mytempweb.com/blog/index.php/2013/08/tudor-rose-online-course-open-for-registration/

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.

Setting Up The Studio and Looking for the Thread UPDATED

Jody Valentine of Jody Designs has just moved, so she has been painting and then organizing her new studio. This is what it looks like now that most of the boxes are opened and everything has a place.  Jody has lots of great organizational tips.  Wish I had a space like this!
http://jodydesigns.typepad.com/jodyinthestudio/2013/07/studio-2-supplies.html

UPDATE:  Of course having everything put away doesn't mean it is easy to get at.  Poor Jody is doing some reorganizing.
http://jodydesigns.typepad.com/jodyinthestudio/2013/08/-studio-2-organizing.html

If you would like to see more, click on the blue title to the left of "Main" just below the header and you will move backward in time to see the studio as it was put together.

Robin of Hilary Jean Designs is very organized with a craft closet I envy greatly.  Of course just because you are organized it doesn't mean that you can actually FIND something!
http://www.hilaryjeandesigns.com/1/post/2013/08/found-it.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.

Restitching the Bayeux Tapestry UPDATED

Kathy has done a series of articles on copies stitched of the Bayeux Tapestry as she plans to stitch a version herself (third link).  The work and dedication of the stitchers is as amazing as the end result.
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/06/21/bayeux-tapestry-reproductions/

http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/06/23/the-work-of-one-needlewoman/

http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/05/21/new-project-in-wool/

Kathy has started work on her version.  Bookmark her blog and follow along.
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/06/26/bateau-bayeux-update/

http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/07/04/sailing-sailing/

http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/07/22/bayeux-and-the-tapestry-ahhhhh/

http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/07/29/bateau-bayeux-the-sails/

http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/08/08/bateau-bayeux-getting-the-sailors-dressed/

http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/08/13/bateau-bayeux-smiling-horses/

http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/08/22/bateau-bayeux-figure-head/

http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/08/25/bateau-bayeux-dye-lots/

http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/09/03/bayeux-stitch-in-a-curve/

http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/09/15/bateau-bayeux-sails-away/

Thanks to Donna, I know that Kathy's not the only one working on a replica of the original Tapestry.  So is Andy!
http://www.kentonline.co.uk/medway_messenger/news/2013/april/17-1/tapestry.aspx

By the way, The French Needle sells a Bayeux Tapestry needlepoint kit.  It is huge and expensive and printed, not hand painted, but if you are a fan and don't want to make up your own....
http://www.frenchneedle.com/collections/needlepoint-kits/products/copy-of-green-millefiori-round-cushion

Tanya has also been bitten by the Bayeux bug.
http://opusanglicanum.wordpress.com/2013/08/20/bayeux-tapestryzzzzzzzzz/

Here is another person stitching a section from the Wilson book on the tapestry.  She used DMC cotton floss instead of wool and has a marvelous transfer technique for the design.
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/11/22/bayeux-tapestry-encore/

Kathy's also found a wonderful local shop (local to Bayeux, France, that is) called Bayeux Broderie that sells kits, linen and will hand draw the section of the Tapestry you want to stitch for you.
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/08/06/bayeux-broderie/

The Quaker Tapestry is described as using "bits of Bayeux."  If you love tapestries you will enjoy the video in this article about it.
http://needleprint.blogspot.com/2013/11/free-entry-to-quaker-tapestry-2-14.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.

Forged Steel for Your Stitching Pleasure

Needle Works in Austin has had a very very exciting week!  Tony Minieri was there teaching and the shop shares one of the stitches he created for a student's canvas. The shop also has taken delivery of new hand forged steel laying tools. They come in two sizes and are about the weight of a Best Laying Tool.  In other words, they look heavier than they are. If you are a laying tool collector (and I know you are out there!), this is something you might want to explore.
http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2013/08/share-a-stitch-august-3.html

These are not on the shop website yet but here is the contact information in case you want to call and discuss these or place an order.
http://theneedleworks.com/about/

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

Where the Magic Happens

When you take a painted canvas to a class that either Brenda Hart or Tony Minieri is teaching, magic happens. Check out the things Tony has Stephanie doing,
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/08/and-so-it-begins.html

http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/08/day-2.html

http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/08/day-3-and-were-done.html

...then look at how Brenda Hart brought that Laurel Burch canvas to life. Amazing! 
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/08/wild-horses.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 Friday Finishing

There have been so many wonderful photographs of finishing available on websites and blogs lately that I thought it might be nice to collect and publish those each Friday.  So here's the first official Friday Finishing!

Stephanie showcases ornaments from her SWAN stitching group occasionally.  The SWANs stitch a Christmas ornament for a Christmas exchange each year.  I don't know if these beauties are from past gift exchanges or if they are Stephanie's own work, but they are all wonderful.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/08/various-and-assorted-cute-ornaments.html

If you like Halloween, you'll love these little Creeps from Needle Deeva and little spider from Associated Talents.
http://www.dianestakingtimeouttoneedlepoint.com/2013/07/halloween-finishing.html

If winter is your favorite season, the twirling snowmen tray (Ewe and Eye) will be your favorite.
http://astheneedleturns.com/the-boys-are-back/

If fashionable accessories warm your heart, then this The Point of It All classic purse is for you.
http://chapelhillneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/07/statement-piece.html

I know I show off a lot of finishing here on Blog, but seeing beautiful pieces made up is very inspirational to me and I hope to you also.   Enjoy!

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

New Dr. Who

Thanks to Sheena's sharp eyes I can announce that Rogue Needlepoint has added Dalek canvases to their line of Dr. Who canvases. Apparently you can order several colors and stances, plus they have ornament-sized designs and a larger pillow-sized one. 
http://www.rogueneedlepoint.com/who.html

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

Robin Goes Buggy

Robin King has just gotten home from a visit to one of my favorite cities--Montgomery, Alabama.  She taught several classes for The Needle Bug, got to visit with Marie-Therese Baker of the Callaway School of Needle Arts (Callaway Gardens is only 2-3 hours to the east of Montgomery), and ate some great food.   Don't you wish we'd all been there?
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-needle-bug-wrap-up-2013.html

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

What Does Sandy Arthur Teach?

What does Sandy Arthur teach when she visits your shop for a class?  Let's see...
needle felting
reverse needle felting
using Sparkles to make fish
beading
building bead domes
weaving ribbons
ruching
needle weaving
stretched Flair

How did she manage to squeeze all that into ONE class?!
http://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/07/designers-desk-is-hostess-with-mostest.html

By the way, I want to move into Designers Desk and live there.

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 Grapes Are Ripening

Maybe it's just me but fall seems to be in the air here in Chilly Hollow.   The lighting bugs are disappearing and there are cicadas singing in the trees.  It hasn't been as hot and humid as it normally is this time of year, the county fair starts next Sunday, and the stores are full of women buying school supplies, bored kids in tow.  And Laura Perin is going to offer her "Harvest Time" cyberclass again!
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/08/a-touch-of-fall.html

If you are interested, here's the direct link to class information on Laura's website.
http://www.laurajperindesigns.net/ljp-cyber-classes.html

If you aren't planning on taking a class right now, here are links to two of my favorite canvases with grapes as the major motif.  Do you have a grapes canvas on your Someday list?
http://www.lanisneedlepoint.com/992winecountrycollage.aspx

http://www.stitchtherapyneedlepoint.com/feature.php?id=21248&title=Grapes&itemtype=hand%20painted%20canvases

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.

Choosing a Background (Ruth Sees Polka Dots) UPDATED AGAIN

Ruth Schmuff just posted the latest lesson for her current mystery class (Zecca's Blue Moon with Owl).
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/08/compensation-way-of-life.html

Her background choice was picked because of all the polka dots and round shapes in this canvas.  I've been thinking about background stitches a lot lately as I contemplate a backgrounds book so I was pleased to see Ruth does what I do--choose a background stitch that repeats design elements.  However, I saw leaves and feathers when I looked at the canvas instead of round shapes.  Isn't it funny what different folks notice when they look at the same design?  Bonus points to Ruth for picking a round stitch that broken up into its component parts looks like leaves and feathers!

Ruth violates another of my usual rules, though--she picked a stitch that needs much compensation.  I try not to choose such a stitch if I can help it but I have to say I would have found it hard to come up with a better choice than hers.  Still, it appears she has taken pity on her students and offers them several round stitches to choose from so they can customize their canvas to their liking and the skill at compensation they possess.

If I was working this canvas, I would certainly do the background first and use a contrasting color of thread to continue the stitch on top of the leaves, branches and dots to make sure everything lined up properly.  Then I would pull out the colorful thread and have perfect background compensation!  It's a lot of work to stitch and then rip the parts you won't use but if you have the right stitch for leaves and tree and polka dots, you might be able to leave the colorful thread's background stitches on top of a leaf and cover it with something else.
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/09/pirate-cat-background.html

Just something else to think about if you have a background that is broken up the way the Owl's is....

UPDATE:  Ruth is continuing the owl, adding wings and fun background swirls and rounds for the dots.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/09/i-just-couldnt-stop-myself.html

LAST UPDATE:  It is framed!
http://theyoungneedlepointer.blogspot.com/2013/12/bama-girl-finish.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.

Finishing for the Counted Thread Enthusiast

I love good finishing but most of the examples I show off here are painted canvases. I don't want my counted canvaswork friends to feel neglected, so check out the wonderful finishing of these Needle Delights pieces-- 
http://needledelightsoriginals.blogspot.com/2013/06/framing-finishing-ideas.html

Speaking of counted thread designs (not to mention Bargello), Liz has finished her third
"Bloomin' Bargello" design.  Now she just needs to sit down and write out the instructions so that all three charts are available from LizArt.
http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2013/07/bloomin-bargello-analogous-finished.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.