About Darning Stitches

SharonG Bra with Darning Stitch Deer Background*

You have probably seen darning stitch backgrounds here and there without really understanding how they are done.  Vicky DeAngelis to the rescue!  Pay close attention to the margins of her canvas where she does little | stitches to turn the thread before stitching another vertical row.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/still-love-that-man-in-uniform/

SuZy Murphy has a book that is all darning patterns called SuZy's Darn Stitches.
http://www.pfos.com/SalePages/PocketFullofStitchesNeedlepointBooks.htm

Brenda Hart's two Favorite Stitches books and her Stitches for the Millennium all have a few darning patterns in them as well.
http://bristlythistle.wordpress.com/2012/02/26/new-needlepoint-books-from-brenda-hart-june-mcknight/

From personal experience I can tell you to use long lengths of thread as you can't stop in the middle of a row.  Threads that drag from one motif to the next will show so make sure each row is stitched the same way so that the shadows all look the same from the front.

*For new readers of Blog, the camouflage bra and tap pants set is from SharonG.  I stitched it several years ago.  Here are the links to my old articles if you are curious.
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/01/camouflage-bra-and-tap-pants-set.html

http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/01/camouflage-lingerie-threads.html

http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/01/all-beads-are-not-alike.html

http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/01/what-size-beads-for-what-size-lingerie.html

http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/01/bead-and-stars-tidbits.html

http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/02/by-way.html

http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/02/rushing-around-before-more-snow.html

http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/02/bra-with-beads.html

http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/02/bra-beads.html

http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/02/beaded-bra.html

http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/02/better-beaded-bra-and-more.html

http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/02/comparing-beading-techniques.html

http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/02/now-we-wait.html

http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/02/camo-tap-pants-done-stars-started.html

http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2010/02/sharong-camouflage-bra-and-tap-pants.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.

Define "Hand Made" UPDATED

Although this really isn't about needlepoint, I thought this article about the craft site Etsy's problems with figuring out what is hand made versus what is mass produced, it is of interest to stitchers because it touches upon the discussion about what is art and what is just a craft.   There are also some needlepoint related shops that use Etsy.  I would love to hear thoughts from folks who buy or sell there about what is going on.
http://www.dailydot.com/business/etsy-brave-new-economy-crumbling/

I certainly am going to look more carefully at any Etsy shop before I buy from them now.

UPDATE:  Liz found this article that shows Etsy exposes creators to the danger of having their work ripped off.  (Of course it isn't just Etsy when you can fun into that problem, but the site has a lot of creative types in one place whose work can be stolen by the unscrupulous.)  Thanks, Liz!
http://www.fastcodesign.com/3020194/how-a-company-gets-away-with-stealing-independent-designers-work?partner=newsletter#2

UPDATE #2:  Apparently there is an Etsy group that certifies all items made by members are actually made by that member.
http://shine.yahoo.com/work-money/is-etsy-still-etsy--members-respond-to-policy-change-over-what-is-handmade-220156294.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.

Carol's a Winner!

Of course we all knew Carol was a winner, but now she has the ribbons to prove it. 
http://carolscountedcanvasworkneedleworks.blogspot.com/2013/09/royal-show-needlepoint.html

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

Blackwork for the Fan

I don't even know now where I heard about Ajisai Designs, but Valentina Sardu publishes cross stitch and blackwork charts and books that are a treat for the eyes.  It looks like she also reprints old patterns.  This is a treasure trove for fans of older designs and those who love modern blackwork. Enjoy!
http://www.ajisaipress.com/blog/cross-stitch-and-blackwork-designs/

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

Speaking of Learning Something New

Sharlotte spoke of learning new things, so this is the time to mention ANG's latest cyberclass-Catherine Jordan's "A Knot Garden."  I've seen this in person at Woodlawn and it is magnificent.  Both dimensional and delicate, this is your chance to learn some wonderful new techniques that will carry over into your needlepoint for years to come.
http://www.needlepoint.org/CyberWorkshop/garden/garden.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.

Profile: Sharlotte DeVere

When we first moved to Virginia, we lived in the quaint little Colonial town of Leesburg, only about two miles from the downtown area which has a small and fascinating counted thread shop called The Queen's Stitch. It was great fun to visit to admire the silk gauze kits, the little perforated paper boxes, to look at the skeins of Paternayan hung against the wall, and to generally enjoy the atmosphere of a good stitching shop, so I was heartbroken when the owner Sharlotte decided to move back home to the family farm in Pennsylvania.  Imagine my surprise when I discovered Sharlotte will be back in the area to teach at the Loudoun Sampler Guild!  The guild also posted a link to a Nordic Needle interview with Sharlotte which I think you'll find interesting.
http://www.nordicneedle.com/newsletters/_300/358.shtml

Great stitchers are found in unexpected places but what really amazes me about our art is the diversity of folks who are drawn to make things with their hands.  I think we are involved in a universal impulse to create with the needle, don't you?

Enjoy the article. If you are at the EGA Seminar this year, hug Sharlotte for me and tell me I remember the Queen's Stitch very fondly.

Written 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

Ann Wheat Pace's new purse design is lovely and beautifully finished. If I ever saw a classic purse that could be carried for years and handed down in the family, this is it.  Click on the small thumbnail photo for a better look.
http://www.annwheatpace.com/finished/index.html

Sometimes simple is best, isn't it?
http://splittheneedles.blogspot.com/2013/09/how-to-make-your-husband-jealous.html

And sometimes over-the-top is what you need.
http://www.needlepointoflajolla.com/Finishing.html

Me, I like finishing each and every Friday!

Written 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 While Waiting

Debbie Rowley of DebBee's Designs fame has written an interesting little article about choosing the best travel project.   Whether you are waiting in the car or doctor's office or hospital, whether you are on the road for business or pleasure, we needlepointers like having a project ready to sooth our souls and keep our hands busy.  What is YOUR perfect travel project?
http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/2013/09/03/waiting/

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

Homestead Needle Arts is Infested

The latest newsletter from Homestead Needle Arts is all about a problem the shop it having--it's overrun with witches!   They brought their friends.  They brought their furniture.  They are flying around Theresa's head on broomsticks, taunting her.  Help!
http://www.homesteadneedlearts.com/thelatest.html

The shop also has copies of a new book by Jacqui Carey that is about stitches used by Elizabethean stitchers.  There are diagrams about how to stitch them yourself, too.  Which might come in handy if you need a diagram for tubular Ceylon stitch....
http://www.homesteadneedlearts.com/whats_new.cfm

There's more in the newsletter but since the witches are flying around MY head now, I'll let you discover that for yourself.  Theresa, try distracting them with candy corn.

Happy Halloween!

Written 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 Very Funny Holiday Mystery Revealed

Do you like mysteries? Do you like a good laugh? Is Winter your favorite season? Then you might want to take Ruth Schmuff's Holiday Mystery class. All the details (and the giggles) are here.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/09/the-christmas-mystery-revealed.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.

Come to the Point

If you love informative shop newsletters, you might want to sign up for Come to the Point's e-newsletter which arrives roughly weekly.   It is always interesting, though short.  (I always admire folks who can say something in a few sentences, especially since it always takes me a few paragraphs!)  Here's a bit about the shop, which is in San Rafael, California.
http://sanrafael.patch.com/groups/business-news/p/business-spotlight-come-to-the-point

Here is their small website.
http://www.cometothepoint.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.

Denise is On Vacation

Denise of Stitching Sisters is on vacation, so naturally she planned to hit all the shops in the area. Here is her report for those of you who have the Cape in your GPS system. 
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2013/08/vacation-time.html

http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2013/08/more-craft-shopping.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.

News from Exclamation Point

Exclamation Point's newsletter is out and full of news about their plans, including a new website.  Stay tuned!
http://myemail.constantcontact.com/September-adventures-at-Exclamation-Point.html?soid=1107749317181&aid=C_i5UEmEbc4

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

Accessorize for the Holidays

Just in time for Halloween, Bedecked and Beadazzled has the accesories to make your stitching perfectly themed for October.   All you need is a Halloween canvas, and Ruth even has a class for that.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/09/the-total-package.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.

Need Congress Cloth?

Need Congress cloth? Then take a look at the beautiful saturated colors that SJ Designs offers before you order anywhere else.  Hand dyed on Zweigart Congress cloth, they are BEAUTIFUL! 
http://www.sj-designs.com/pages/WhatsNew.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.

Since We Are Talking Halloween

Since we are talking Halloween today, I wanted to give you the links to Embellishments Plus' website. They have wonderful witch or flame or black cat scissors, colorful laying tools, and wonderful Halloween themed needle minder magnets. 
http://www.embellishmentsplus.com/EmbellishmentsPlus.com/Accessories.html

http://www.embellishmentsplus.com/EmbellishmentsPlus.com/Needle_Minders.html

Time to get your canvas decorated for Halloween, right?  We CANNOT let Linda outdo us!
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2013/09/some-more-halloween-decorations.html

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

A Closer Look at the Cover UPDATED

The September-October 2013 issue of Needlepoint Now is starting to be mailed out. The cover features a group of Squiggee Halloween figures, so Gail Hendrix decided to post better photos on her blog to show off her designs and credit the stitchers who provided models for Squiggee and the magazine.
http://squiggeedesigns.blogspot.com/2013/09/ta-da.html

http://squiggeedesigns.blogspot.com/2013/09/wait-for-it-its-almost-here.html

UPDATE:  Nimble Needle has some of the models in their shop, so you can see other photos on their blog.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/09/squigee-model-trunk-show.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 Halloween Birdhouse and Needlepoint Now

One of the nicest things about Needlepoint Now magazine is that they are using the Internet to add content and help to their magazine projects. The latest example of this is Eye Candy's line drawn Halloween bird house cracker from Eye Candy. Ada Hayden has posted about her design on her blog, with good close up photos and finishing tips to help you work this charming project. Nice job, Ada!
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2013/09/new-design-halloween-birdhouse.html

By the way, Ada says a painted canvas version of this design will be coming out soon.  Have your shop keep an eye on Eye Candy's catalogue to order 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.

Angel Wings

Personally I am always on the lookout for stitches for angel wings. I find them very challenging myself, so I was thrilled that Stephanie is on this. She posts lots of ideas on her blog-- 
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2013/08/angel-wings.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.

Quail Run Newsletter, Eye Candy Galore

The latest shop newsletter from Quail Run is online, ready for viewing. This month's issue is particularly heavy on great finishing.  There are lists of classes and special events as well as a sneak peak at a new series called Vintage Blue from Quail Run Designs (the distributor instead of the shop).
http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk//launch.aspx?pbid=69bfa3f1-dd93-4618-b806-6880fc346117

Speaking of new series, Ruth Schmuff has snuck several new designs from Sandra Vargas onto her website.  Like witches or geishas or just plain fun monsters?  You'll see them all at the top of her "What's New" page.
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/needlepoint/--a-23.asp

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

Snap Trays, Big and Little

If you like a little catch all to keep your scissors, spools of threads, needle package, etc. handy but tidy, then a snap tray might be just the thing for you.  I admit I have one that I don't use because it is so pretty, I don't want dog hair all over it.  You can get them in vinyl, though.  That would be very easy to clean...
http://www.etsy.com/shop/annebvinyl?section_id=11901562

Snap trays also come in a small size with a magnet to corral those pesky beads.  Here are pictures and a review, courtesy of Nimble Needle.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/09/bead-trays-back-in-stock-must-have-for.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 this week's Finishing Friday, I have some wonderful pillow finishing by Nimble Needle plus two bags in two very different styles.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/09/customers-work.html

Needle Delights shows off their Autumn Logs design made into a pillow.  Counted canvaswork isn't just for picture frames anymore!
http://needledelightsoriginals.blogspot.com/2013/09/autumn-logs-pillow.html

Adrienne did a fabulous job with these two little Kathy Schenkel stockings.  Check out her use of an overdye in streaks to suggest water....
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/09/blog-post_14.html

Speaking of stockings, all of The Needlepointer's finishing showcased this week is Christmas red.
http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=2b1a4dafdf1ba6e29e773aa79&id=dd283fab8c&e=73961ee0ea

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

The Do It Yourself Floor Cushion

Ever wanted a big beginner project for your stitching child?  How about this charming floor poof? You can even use knitting wools or that stash of old Paternayan you'll never touch for this beauty courtesy of Jenny Henry Designs.
http://jennyhenrydesigns.wordpress.com/2013/08/07/diy-needlepoint-floor-pouf/

Written 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 Finishing Kits from Marlene's UPDATED

According to Old World Designs' Facebook page, Marlene has a new finishing option--a new company called Marlene Makes It Fun.  The company will offer small canvases with a self-finishing pillow that coordinates with the design.  Marlene will demonstrate the product at Old World Designs October 5.  Hope someone can attend and report back!
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=724743080884508&set=a.256479901044164.85922.254980691194085&type=1&theater

UPDATE:  The Needlepointer also posted photos of Marlene's pillow kits.
http://us1.campaign-archive2.com/?u=2b1a4dafdf1ba6e29e773aa79&id=08b3bcaad5&e=73961ee0ea

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

River Silks Ribbon Ideas

I've been thinking about silk ribbon lately because I just used it on a project and it turned out great.  My ribbon of choice for 18 count canvas is the 4mm width from River Silks.  Here's their website if you aren't familiar with the company.  By the way, this is a very durable ribbon.  It won't mind if you pierce it doing Japanese ribbon stitch or drag it through tiny holes.  I have to say short of setting fire to it, this ribbon is pretty near indestructible.  The color range is wide and it also comes in three widths if you need something wide or want different widths for layering.
http://www.riversilks.com

Back to my project--I just stitched this Leigh Designs piece for the St. Charles trade show.  See the horizontal purple line right under the two skulls in the upper left quadrant?
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Sgl5167.html

I stitched that in straight vertical satin stitches with 4mm River Silks ribbon.  Because this canvas is 18 count, the ribbon was a little too close together, so it scrunched up and looked gathered.  This was a very easy way to have a great effect.  I will use this again.
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Mdl5167.html

Any ribbon brand or flat ribbon-like thread (such as Flair, Neon Rays, Kreinik's 1/16th ribbon, etc.) can be used the same way, depending on the effect you want.

I've been thinking that a flat ribbon held down by a series of cross stitches would be very pretty.

You can also lay a ribbon flat and stitch right down the middle with straight back stitches to hold it in place.  Use a contrasting thread and you'll have a very pretty effect.  I learned that from SharonG who used the effect for the grass in her Stitch of the Month design for ANG several years back.
http://www.needlepoint.org/StitchOfTheMonth/2005/december/directions.php

Several folks have stretched Flair and tacked it down on the sides for their projects.  Silk ribbon won't stretch but there's no reason you couldn't use little tacking stitches on either side to hold it in place.  

Silk ribbons make interesting bullions and French knots, too.

So what clever ideas for silk ribbon have you come up with?  Comment below or email me at chilly hollow at hot maildotcom and I'll post them 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.

How to Make Japanese Kanzashi Fabric Flowers UPDATED

This is something quite different--how to make fabric flowers the Japanese Kanzashi Fabric way.
http://www.fabrics-store.com/blog/2011/07/21/tutorial-japanese-kanzashi-fabric-flower/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Subscribers&utm_content=01&utm_campaign=KanzashiFlowers

The technique is simple but note that the fabric used is linen, which means a fabric with some weight and body to it.  I think a thin fabric would not work as well, but I haven't tried it.

Still, for the right canvas this might be a lovely accessory.

UPDATE:  You can see the flowers used on Peggi's Sugar Skull mask.  Told you they'd be perfect on the right design!
http://tapestryfair.blogspot.com/2013/10/a-holiday-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.

More Bling for the Fashionable Stitcher

If you are in the market for a little pick me up, you might be interested in the scissors fobs, needle threaders or decorated laying tools from TJB Designs. The second link goes directly to their Etsy store.
http://countedwishes.com/tjbdesigns/

http://www.etsy.com/shop/tjbdesigns

Written 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 Resisting The Lure of These

Barbara Elmore knows CUTE. Then she turns it into scissor fobs.

I don't even LIKE scissors fobs and am thinking I need one of these! I dare you to look and not be charmed. 
http://stitchpography.blogspot.com/2013/09/well-h-e-l-l-o-k-i-t-t-y.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.

Puzzle

As a treat for my stitching friends who love Jean Hilton's designs, here is a photo of Puzzle done in cheerful purples and greens.
http://stitches-heart.com/jean-hiltons-puzzle/

This is much different than Jean's original reddish hues and very different from the ecrus in Puzzle Purse but it is all very lovely.  By the way, I've seen Puzzle Purse stitched in the original colors and found it magnificent in person.
http://www.stitchers-paradise.com/Canvas_Embroidery/JHI/JeanHiltonBooks.html

http://www.bonanza.com/listings/Puzzle-Purse-by-Jean-Hilton-Needlepoint-Pattern-book/25510337

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

Gossip Central

The latest gossip that little birds whispered to me--Jo Iooplito Christensen is planning to release the third edition of The Needlepoint Book in October August 2014.   It is revised and updated with fresh and interesting new photographs.  I can't wait!

(Thanks for the update!)

I've also heard that next year sometime a famous teacher is going to publish a "how to write your own stitch guide" article in Needlepoint Now.  I can't wait again!

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

Kreinik Looks to the Starry Skies

Kreinik has written a fun article about how to use their various threads to create stars for your needlework.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2013/09/how-to-stitch-twinkling-stars.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.

Match My Face

Do you need a set of colors that match the skin tones on that canvas you have hidden in a closet or under the bed? Kreinik has you covered with Silk Mori collections in four skin tones--African American, Asian, Caucasian and Hispanic.  The only set they lack are American Indian but you can probably combine some of the colors to get what you need for that ethnic group.  Scroll down to the middle of the page to find their skin collections.
http://www.kreinik.com/shops/Silk-Threads/

Access Commodities also has a collection of silks for skin tones.  Their range is a mix of silk types and covers African American, Mediterranean, Medium, Oriental and Porcelain.  Each collection still comes with an instruction page for mixing colors written by Tony Minieri.  To see the thumbnail photos, choose "Silk Thread Kits."  Clicking on each photo will show the threads in that set well.
http://www.accesscommodities.com/products

Rainbow Gallery also has put together a collection of Splendor colors for skin tones.  They offer Bronze Porcelain, Blush Porcelain and Santa's Rosy Cheeks for your stitching pleasure.  Click on each photo for a better look.
https://www.stitchingbitsandbobs.com/cgi-bin/Store/pageread.cgi?SDC

Many thanks to our beloved thread manufacturers for making choosing the right set of colors easier!  Now my only problem is that I want them 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.

The Lone Star Updated

Laura Perin occasionally reworks an older design to both update the chart with more advanced software, but to update the colors and threads to show off all the wonderful things we have available to stitch with these days.   This time her Lone Star pattern has had a makeover, turning it into New Lone Star.  Even if you aren't a fan of counted work, you will enjoy seeing how Laura turns one design into something very new but the same.
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/08/a-favorite-star-returns.html

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

Exclusive Nativity and Judiaca

Needlework Unlimited in Minnesota has two talented artists doing canvases exclusively for them.  First, here is Sally Brandi's Nativity set.
http://www.needleworkunlimited.com/nativity.aspx

Secondly, Katherine Parfet Designs offers classic pieces and Judiaca.
http://www.needleworkunlimited.com/katherineparfetdesigns-2.aspx

Sometimes you just want something no one else has!

(Many thanks to Kristin for mentioning her visit to the shop on Needlepoint Nation.)

Written 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 Recommends

Laura Perin has been printing copies of her "Cut Glass Dishes" design.    It reminds her of those cut glass dishes in the cupboard  we all cherish.  At least I do as my grandmother collected Carnival Glass dishes and I inherited several of them as my mother started to downsize to move into her apartment.  Thinking about this as she printed, she decided to recommend a mystery series by Susan Wittig Albert called the Darling Dahlia series.  Ms. Albert is a stitcher like us, too!
http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/2013/09/cut-glass-dishes.html

Think you might be interested in these books?  Here's more--
http://www.darlingdahlias.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.

Goldwork Supreme

This morning Mary Corbet treated us to some fantastic goldwork photographs. This beauty is from the talented hands of Cristina Badillo. There are links to her website and more photos of goldwork to enjoy via Pinterest, too.  The various effects the different types of metallic threads gives never stops amazing me.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/08/fantastic-goldwork-by-cristina-badillo.html

If you would like to see examples of some of the gold threads Cristina used, visit Hedgehog Handworks and browse the various sections to read descriptions and see closeup photos.
http://www.hedgehoghandworks.com/catalog/metal_threads_index.php

By the way, Mary also went into detail about some of the threads Cristina used which are not normally used in the U.S. or Britain for goldwork. Interesting!
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/08/goldwork-threads-from-spain-close-up.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 the Great Tapestry of Scotland UPDATED

This introduction to the Great Tapestry of Scotland is for the land of my ancestors and for all the tapestry lovers out there. 
http://plays-with-needles.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-great-tapestry-of-scotland.html

Sheena (who is a Scot) has more information about the Great Tapestry and its travels.
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/new-great-tapestry/

Written 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 to Use Metallics

Sally Bauer discusses where she used metallics on her stitching in a video on Kreinik Manufacturing Company's Facebook page. 
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151550458625940

This is a BB Needlepoint canvas called "Four Square Quilt."
http://www.bbneedlepointdesigns.com/contemporary-quilt-needlepoint-designs.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

In yet another edition of Finishing Fridays, I have a really different and clever way of making up little mini socks for Christmas.
http://www.oneoffneedlework.co.uk/blog/what-to-do-with-the-leftovers/

Enriched Stitch has a lot of finishing to show off.  Some of these are class models, some are customer work.  All are beautifully finished in a variety of ways and Suzie credited all the finishers so you can tell your shop to use them if you see something that is perfect for some of your stitched-but-not-made-up pieces.
http://astheneedleturns.com/back-from-the-finishers/

Absolutely Needlepoint has some charming pieces to share.
http://www.theneedlebug.com/blog2/2013/09/birthday-bash-2/

And so does Bedecked and Beadazzled.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/09/hoot-hoot-its-cute.html

But I think Eye Candy tops them all when it comes to cute finishing.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2013/09/a-winning-weekend.html

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

How to Strip Floss

If you have heard about stripping threads and wondered what the heck?--this article (with plenty of photos) Explains All. 
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/08/embroidery-tip-how-to-separate-floss.html

Combined with a laying tool, threads that have been separated and then recombined really lay flatter.  If the thread is silk (or even cotton), you will get wonderful light reflection off longer stitches, too.

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

Homestead's Newsletter and Photos

The newest newsletter for Homestead Needle Arts is up on their website now. If you love counted canvaswork, you'll want to see the new charts that Theresa has featured.  There is also shop news, a photo of the Raymond Crawford Halloween train, and more.
http://www.homesteadneedlearts.com/thelatest.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.

Another Background Thread Dyelot Problem (With Clever Solution)

Kathy is stitching a reproduction of part of the Bayeux Tapestry and ran into a dyelot problem with her thread.  Here's the problem--and her clever solution!
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/08/25/bateau-bayeux-dye-lots/

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

Schedule that Debbie Stiehler Class Now!

I just heard that Debbie Stiehler is retiring from teaching at the end of 2013!   I love her Imari Collage, so I am sad to hear that I will probably never have the chance to take this class.  But you might be luckier than I am.  Schedule that Debbie Stiehler class now!
http://www.needlepointnow.com/two-weeks-of-indulgence/

To see what we will all be missing, here's Debbie's website.  Hummm....  Wonder if Elizabeth can talk her into an article or two in Needlepoint Now?
http://debbiestiehler.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.

Candace Bahouth

If you are a fan of Ehrman needlepoint kits from England, you will have run across Candace Bahouth and her needlepoint.   You can see her needlepoint patterns at EhrmanTapestry.com's website, but I discovered that Candace has a personal page that showcases her current projects.  This page shows off needlepoint and tapestry designs she has created over the years.
http://www.mosaicbahouth.com/Mosaic_tapestry_needlepoint_gallery.html

Here are her currently available kits.
http://www.ehrmantapestry.com/designer-products.aspx?id=d5571dc6-614b-4b02-ad10-d6e214e66274&page=1&PerPage=500

Erhman has posted a video about Candace and her designs.
http://www.ehrmantapestry.com/videos/story/Candace-Bahouth.aspx?page=1

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

Limited Edition Hair for Halloween?

I had no idea that Thread Gatherer did limited edition curly thread each year.   I thought I was the threadaholic supreme!  This stuff is called Wild Hairs and it comes in Halloween shades.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/09/wild-hairs.html

It looks like this is available all year round in selected colors.  Never heard of it!
http://www.threadgatherer.com/wild%20%20hairs%20page.htm

 Obviously I have shopping to do, so if you will excuse 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.

The Proper Way to Tortune Kreinik

Remember when I wrote about torturing Flair? 
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2013/03/how-to-torture-flair.html

I have a followup article from Kreinik that discusses how to ruch or distress or otherwise alter their metallic threads for special effects. 
http://www.mrxstitch.com/altered-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.

The Cauldron and the Dress

Halloween lovers will be thrilled with the newest class at Enriched Stitch--Gunilda and the Cauldron (from Melissa Shirley Designs).   There are several interesting techniques here, from the couched trim on the dress, to the stetched Flair for smoke, to the hair and the mess in the cauldron.  Enjoy!
http://astheneedleturns.com/gunilda-and-the-cauldron/

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

Or Nue Online

Quite a few folks have become intrigued by the Or Nue' technique on needlepoint canvas.   If you want to try this, Jane Zimmerman has posted an online guide to the traditional technique on her website.  You will find it great background reading and helpful if you are going to try Or Nue' yourself.
http://www.janezimmerman.com/Temp/Techniques/Or%20Nue.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.

ANG Seminar 2013

This year the American Needlepoint Guild's Seminar is August 23-30 in Anaheim, California.
http://www.needlepoint.org/Seminar-13/index.php

Here are the classes offered.
http://www.needlepoint.org/Seminar-13/classes.php

And now, here are the Seminar reports, latest on top!
***************************************************************

Vicky DeAngelis shows off her prize winner from Seminar.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/shine-on-harvest-moon-2/

Liz talks about her first class at Seminar, Pamela Harding's Serengeti.  Lovely!
http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2013/09/serengeti-by-pamela-harding_13.html

Liz talks about her second Terry Dryden class.  I've heard Terry is a dynamite teacher and Liz certainly seems to think so.
http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2013/09/tiebele-nights-by-terry-dryden.html

More Seminar from Elizabeth, the editor of Needlepoint Now.
http://www.needlepointnow.com/two-weeks-of-indulgence/

More Seminar photos from Vicky,
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/its-too-hot-to-even-stitch/

Facebook:  Cindy Lee Manekofsky Gershin has posted photos of her two ribbon winners from Seminar on her FB page.  Beautiful!  The sampler received a perfect score!
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10201364102759105&set=pcb.528837490526747&type=1&theater

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10201364102719104&set=pcb.528837490526747&type=1&theater

Liz Morrow is back from Seminar, with a third place ribbon in her suitcase!  Congratulations, Liz! The second link shows off Leaping Stag, an original design by Liz herself.  The think link shows the piece with its ribbon.
http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2013/09/seminar-report.html

http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2013/03/leaping-stag.html

http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2013/09/leaping-stag-winner.html

Many congratulations to Sandy Arthur who won ANG's Literary Award at Seminar for her Shapes books!  (And thanks to Sundance for the tip.)  Here's Sandy's report on the classes she took and taught and a few other tidbits about attending Seminar as a teacher.
http://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/09/ang-seminar-anaheim-ca.html

More fun at Seminar from Vicky DeAngelis.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/last-i-left-you/

Facebook:  Ada Hayden of Eye Candy Needlepoint has posted photos of the Halloween tree covered in her ornaments that was auctioned at Seminar.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=722236347803549&set=a.138462276180962.25460.121991261161397&type=1&relevant_count=1&ref=nf

Facebook:  Here's the Sea Shell Pillow Quail Run Needlework Inc. finished for the ANG Auction.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=597227363660764&set=a.339586356091534.93299.326583717391798&type=1&theater

Facebook:  ANG, The American Needlepoint Guild, Inc. has posted a lot of shots of fun at Seminar on their FB page.  I think lots of the photos are courtesy of Arliss Link.  Thanks, Arliss!
https://www.facebook.com/AmericanNeedlepointGuild

All good times come to an end.  Sigh.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/the-partys-almost-over/

Jan Sprague is also at Seminar, working on one of the ANG committees, and reports in on her Stitchlady's Adventures blog.
http://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2013/08/26/greetings-from-anaheim/

Vicky DeAngelis can't believe it's almost over!
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/it-cant-be-almost-over-2/

Facebook:  Penny Boswinkle has posted photos of a classroom and eating with friends at Seminar.  Judging from the wine bottles, folks are having a great time!
https://www.facebook.com/penny.boswinkle?hc_location=stream

Facebook:  Pamela Harding has posted photos of the opening banquet.  Lots of happy faces!
https://www.facebook.com/pamela.harding?hc_location=stream

Facebook:  ANG, The American Needlepoint Guild, Inc. has posted a list of exhibit ribbon winners on their FB page.  Congratulations to all!
https://www.facebook.com/AmericanNeedlepointGuild/posts/621750447868980

Facebook:  Vicky De Angelis has posted a photograph of her ribbon winner, the Lee tiger shoulder bag.  Lovely!  The second link is her blue ribbon winner, also on FB but this time on Laura Zickus' page.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=507096446031377&set=gm.524889867588176&type=1&theater

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151616755864157&set=p.10151616755864157&type=1&theater

Vicky has taken more photos of her classroom and the Seminar hotel for us stay-at-homes to enjoy.
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2013/08/25/bateau-bayeux-dye-lots/

Facebook:  The American Needlepoint Guild, Inc. is adding Seminar photos to their FB page.  Right now there are photos from Margaret Kinsey's class uploaded and more are promised for the afternoon of 8/25.
https://www.facebook.com/AmericanNeedlepointGuild?ref=stream&hc_location=stream

Facebook:  Maryelvis Sinton has posted a photo of her jeweled owl she is showing off at Teacher's Showcase to her FB page.  This is Japanese beading at its finest.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=648587301826020&set=a.182538325097589.43150.100000242680931&type=1&theater

We of the Needle is a shop just twenty minutes from Seminar!  They are offering a discount if you have your ANG badge, too.
http://weoftheneedle.blogspot.com/2013/08/ang-seminar-is-on.html

The ANG Auction is online!  You can submit absentee bids and preview the auction items for the ive auction here.
http://ang.afrogs.org

Facebook:  Vicky De Angelis is posting photographs of the hotel and setup on her FB page, and is also adding photos from her class with Debbie Stiehler.
https://www.facebook.com/vicky.deangelis.5

Laura Perin is sending lots of beautiful charts to the Seminar Shop.
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2013/08/lauras-ready-for-seminar.html

Vicky is packing!
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2013/08/ang-seminar-on-horizon.html

Sandy Arthur posted some photos of the classes she's teaching on her blog.
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2013/03/glimpses-of-ang-classes.html

Relax with Your Needlepoint

In "Tapestry for the Terrified",  Wendy reminds us to relax over our needlework.
http://www.oneoffneedlework.co.uk/blog/tapestry-for-the-terrified/

Written 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 Needlepointer's New Website Is Ready for Inspection

The Needlepointer's updated website is now ready!  I am thrilled for Jill's taste in canvases is close to mine.  It is always fun to browse her selection.  The website showcases some of their customers' finished pieces, the current trunk show (Kathy Schenkel Designs), their upcoming classes and clubs, links to their Pinterest site, and more.  Have fun exploring. 
http://www.theneedlepointer.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.

Resources for the New Stitcher

The Point of It All isn't just a distributor of fun needlepoint, it's also a shop that appears to have a real commitment to teaching folks to needlepoint.  Check out these videos on their website.  There's an introduction to needlepoint, tips on choosing that first canvas, and how to videos on basic stitches.  Susan Battle (shop owner) also has put together a little book to help beginners once they exit the shop.
http://thepointofitallonline.com/videos/

I haven't seen the book so I don't know how helpful it will be for a beginner but it's worth a look.  If any of Blog's readers have seen this, I'd like to have a mini review.   Either add a Comment by clicking on the Comment link below or if Blog won't listen to you (which won't surprise me, it doesn't listen to me at least weekly!), then email me directly at chillyhollow@hotmail.com.  Thanks.
http://tpoia.storenvy.com/products/1990183-how-to-needlepoint

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

Edwardian Needle Reborn

The Edwardian Needle is reopening today after moving to a new location--
The new address is 390 Fairfield Road, Fairfield New Jersey
Phone 973-743-9833

They also have two trunk shows to celebrate--Raymond Crawford and Joy Juarez.  Right now their website isn't up to date with the new contact information so I haven't added it here.

Go enjoy the new space if you can!

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

Pangea as a Tote Bag (More Finishing Friday)

Thanks to Sue Dulle, I heard about Kurdy Biggs' latest design, Pangea, made up as a tote bag and stitcher's tool wallet. It's magnificent! 
http://www.threedles.com/06012011/2013/Pangea/Pangea_BagAndWallet.html

Here is the charted design in its three colorways devised by Kurdy herself.  Her work is astounding in person.  Photos don't capture the complexity or show the crystals and beads she uses.
http://www.threedles.com/06012011/2013/Pangea/Pangea.html

By the way, the Needleart Nut is stitching Kurdy's Mariposa butterfly if you want to see how the design develops.  Pat is doing hers on a custom dyed canvas.
http://needleartnut.blogspot.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.

Finishing Friday

I think you'll find Linda's little witch standup darling! 
http://splittheneedles.blogspot.com/2013/08/super-finish.html

This Spring Crazy Quilt design from Kelly Clark is magnificent as a bolster pillow.
http://us1.campaign-archive2.com/?u=2b1a4dafdf1ba6e29e773aa79&id=d6c1a262dd&e=73961ee0ea

Enriched Stitch just got their class model back from the finisher and it's amazing!  They also list their finishing deadlines for Christmas, just in case this is your local shop.
http://astheneedleturns.com/finishing-deadlines/

Linda got some spectacular finishing back for Christmas.  Lovely!  (But the grandson is lovelier by far.)
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2013/08/christmas-finishing.html

Finally, Sheena shows us what the perfect frame brings to a piece with examples from Art Etc. Picture Framing in Cleveland.
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/the-frame-makes-it/

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

More Magnets!

For the magnet collectors--  Is that a Chanel jacket?  Among the starfish, purse, hummingbird, snowman, swan, cameo and much, much more?
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/09/magnetic-needle-minders.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.

Lumio! UPDATED

Lumio sounds like a spell Harry Potter and his friends would cast to light up a dark attic, doesn't it?  But it isn't!
http://skeins-huntcountryyarns.blogspot.com/2013/08/17-august-2013-wow-store-just-got-in.html

This is a very heavy yarn, so it probably will work best to make custom cording or as a background accent on 12 count canvas, but I haven't seen it in person. If you have a knitting shop in your neighborhood, please check it out and let us know if you think it is something a needlepointer could use in special situations.

UPDATE:  I am told that Lumio is a "#6 super bulky yarn designed for coats, winter sweaters and accessories. Saw some great patterns for scarves and hats, but unless I were going to a colder climate would have no use for them. It is a beautiful yarn and the reflective streak in it is perfect for outdoor sportswear."  In other words, this is the largest diameter knitting yarn available, so it almost certainly isn't suitable to needlepoint canvas and might even be too fat for couching.  Many thanks, Jody!

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

Manuel Salas Introduces Yolanda

Tapestry Fair has translated another of Manuel Salas' Day of the Dead ladies into needlepoint. Let me introduce Yolanda!
http://tapestryfair.blogspot.com/2013/09/meet-yolanda.html

Her favorite color is orange and she just loves peppers.  I can't decide whether the streamers on either side of her shoulders are peppers or braided ribbons to look like them.  She is as different as can be from her slightly older sister La Dama Elegante.
http://tapestryfair.blogspot.com/2013/05/more-halloween-from-manuel-salas.html

I mention Elegante as BeStitched is planning a class on her.  You can see progress photos on their Facebook page.  Use the navigation arrows to see two other closeups.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=521851727883760&set=pcb.521852081217058&type=1&theater

If you are curious about the rest of Manuel's daughters, you can see them here.
http://tapestryfair.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=57&Itemid=1

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

What To Do When You Can't Wing It

Monica is not the sort of person who is comfortable just eyeballing her canvas and adding beads where they were originally painted in on her canvas.  Instead, she has come up with a clever way of using a color copy of her unstitched canvas to place items in areas where the painted spots have been covered by stitching.   Monica, I think you've just won this week's Smart Cookie Award!
http://lazydaisyneedlework.blogspot.com/2013/08/a-finish.html

The canvas is by Ewe and Eye, and the wonderful stitch guide written by Terry Christopher Costillo of 2 the Point.
http://www.topoint.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.

Don't Forget the Stitch Guides!

In the holiday rush/end of summer, have you been keeping up with the Chilly Hollow Stitch Guides blog?  There is news about stitch guides for Sandra Gilmore (by Laura Perin, no less!), stitch guides for the Henry VIII Wives set from Rogue Needlepoint, and of course I talk in detail about how I developed the backgrounds for my latest stitch guide for Leigh Designs--the trio of black cats for Halloween called The Watchers. If you haven't been to the CH Stitch Guides blog lately, you are missing out. And there's a new posting scheduled for tomorrow...
http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

Remember, you can click on the magic carpet icon to go there and then back to Blog at any time.

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

Packing Up, Moving Out!

Needlepoint.com in Raleigh NC is getting ready to move to a new location in mid-September.   They will only be about a mile from where they are now and of course their website is always open, move or not.
http://view.exacttarget.com/?j=fe5f167375620c747716&m=fef51c76766702&ls=fdf31774776c027d711d7774&l=fef71776746d01&s=fe241373726c067d731c72&jb=ffcf14&ju=fe1e16797361067b721276&r=0

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

Back to School! UPDATED

If it's Labor Day, everyone is going back to school.  If you are a needlepointer, you too can go to school, regardless of your age.   Enriched Stitch in Connecticut is having a retreat in October to work on their Summer at the Shore piece, exclusive to them from Ewe and Eye.  There's even a custom lighthouse magnet from Accoutrement Designs!  To see the magic Suzie has created along the New England beaches, go here.
http://astheneedleturns.com/im-back-2/

If a warm beach instead of the wind-swept ones off the New England coast is more your thing, check out Absolutely Needlepoint's class on Melissa Shirley's compote bowl filled with shells.  Based on Laura Taylor's stitch guide, Holly Crook has gone nuts with interesting embellishments to remember your Florida vacation by.  This class is going to be held in 2014 in Miami, so mark your calendar now.
http://absolutelyneedlepoint.wordpress.com/2013/08/14/upcoming-class/

Of course not everyone can travel to a shop when there is none close by, but luckily there are notebook classes!  Donna shows off three she is taking to learn more and improve her own stitching.    Taking cyberclasses is wonderful but so is taking a class that your local chapter of EGA or ANG has set up.  The second link is to a class that the San Diego chapter of ANG is offering in October from Margaret Bendig.
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2013/08/notebook-classes.html

http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/im-in-love-yet-again/

UPDATE:  I have two more fabulous classes for you, just posted about today.  First up is SharonG's embellishment class and her painting class at Nimble Needle.  "No throwing paint on the teacher" says SharonG.  LOL
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/09/classes-with-sharon-g-embellishment-and.html

Second, Enriched Stitch has invited Barbara Elmore to visit.  Take a look at her amazing work!
http://astheneedleturns.com/barbara-elmore-is-coming-to-town/

Celebrate Labor Day--learn something!

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

Portraits in Thread UPDATED

Trish Burr has posted more information on Cayce Zavaglia's incredibly realistic portraits.   Although stitched on linen using one ply of embroidery floss, they are not traditional needle painting such as Trish uses for her bird portraits.  Instead, Ms. Zavaglia seems to substitute a needle and thread for paint brush and paint to lay down short lines of color.  It is amazing work!
http://trishburr.com/2013/08/13/realistic-embroidered-portraits/

The earlier interview Trish posted talks about using crewel wool on a cotton/linen, so the new link above is a slightly different look.  If you missed the interview I posted here in 2011, here it is again.
http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2011/06/crewel-like-youve-never-seen-it-before.html

UPDATE:  Another interview, this time about miniature portraits which is Cayce's current interest.
http://trishburr.com/2013/09/12/cayce-zavaglia-miniature-embroidery/

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

Amy's Pearls

The September newsletter for Amy's Golden Strand is available now. In it Amy's going nuts over pearls. Big ones, little ones, ovals, pinks, creams, any sort of pearl you can imagine.  She even touches on the historic pearls that Henry VIII and his contemporaries owned.  You can even see Anne Boleyn's favorite necklace.
http://www.amybunger.com/f/0913.pdf

I have to admit I am wild over SJ Designs' beads myself (not to mention their great customer service) and own some lovely pink and peach pearls in little boxes, just waiting for the perfect canvas....
http://www.sj-designs.com/category_7/Pearls.htm

By the way, Amy talks about other things in the newsletter, mostly new products.  They are already listed on her shop website to make shopping easier.
http://www.amybunger.com/whats_new.html?utm_source=September+2013+Newsletter&utm_campaign=September+Newsletter&utm_medium=email

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