Housekeeping

The new year is heading our way so I've done a little reorganizing of Blog, trying to get ready for 2014 and the challenges it will bring.  The tabs at the top just under the title have been cleaned out and renamed so that the appropriate trade show is there.  This year there will be only three trade shows I know of instead of the usual five, so you see a new tab called "The Newest Things Fall 2013."  Folks are not keeping everything new they have created under wraps until January's trade show in San Diego--they are showing off at least one-two new items already.  That is where I have put those peeks at the newest goodies.  As always, the latest items are on top.

The old trade show information has been moved to articles that are put in roughly the correct date order, so if you want to revisit TNNA's spring show for 2013, search for TNNA Columbus 2013, etc.

I am still working on reorganizing Monthly Clubs but that is a huge task since so many new clubs arrive each week.  I never get caught up with that chore.  The latest in each category is in hot pink, by the way.  The Sales and Trunk show tab also is a big time sink.  There are 2-3 items each day to add there, and more with the holiday clear out sales.  Don't forget to check on the sales.  December brings some really good bargains as shops clear their inventory for the end of the fiscal year.

The Chilly Hollow Stitch Guides site is steadily growing as more and more stitch guides are written.  I am contemplating creating a tab with contact information for everyone I know about who writes custom stitch guides but I haven't gotten to that yet.  I'll have to collect contact information, then use it to check with everyone to make sure they want their email addresses or phone numbers listed publicly.  Stay tuned, in other words.

After over a year's work, the Loretta Spears blog is fairly inactive except for occasional eBay sales of her designs.  I still hope to have new designs turn up, though.  I think I have documented only eighty percent of her work and I know there are other things Out There.  I just need to get folks to let me know about them.  The site gets a steady trickle of traffic from people interested in her work or researching eBay sales items, but I always intended that it be a research tool.  By the way, her work is very, very popular in Russia and Europe.  Wherever Loretta is, I hope that pleases her.

I'm contemplating doing something similar for Ann Spiess Mills' hand painted canvases but there are only so many hours in a day!   After all, I have stitch guides to write,  designer models to write, and I promised to blog-stitch a Russian Santa in December and January.

Please Santa, may I have more hours in the day?

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

One of the Most Fun Things....

One of the most fun things about charted canvas work is that the piece changes as the colors change. Needle Delights was recently teaching in California and took photos of many of the students' versions of her designs. They are all fabulous! 
http://needledelightsoriginals.blogspot.com/2013/11/back-from-california.html

If you want to compare the new colors with the original model colors, here is the link to Kathy's website.
http://needledelights.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.

Iron On Transfer Pens

According to the Needlework Retailer, Sulky now has iron on transfer pens which you can use to draw a design, then iron it onto needlepoint canvas. Interesting! 
http://yarntree.typepad.com/needlework_news/2013/11/easily-transfers-a-design-onto-a-canvas-with-a-hot-iron.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.

Friday Finishing: DIY Edition

The Focus on Finishing blog has recently concentrated on various ways to finish scissor fobs. I had no idea there were so many options! If you are a Do It Yourself person, you'll love the step-by-step instructions. If you plan never to finish anything you stitch, you'll still want to view the options so you can explain more clearly to your finisher or shop just what style you want for your latest masterpiece.
http://focusonfinishing.wordpress.com/2013/09/22/scissor-fob-tutorial-1/

http://focusonfinishing.wordpress.com/2013/10/27/scissor-fob-2/

http://focusonfinishing.wordpress.com/2013/11/03/scissor-fob-3-with-whip-stitch-edging/

Thanks, Anne!  Very interesting!

Self finishing is very satisfying and the outcomes can by surprisingly professional if you are patient.  Here is Jan's train set, which is totally darling!
http://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2013/11/17/raymond-crawfords-christmas-train-finishing/

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

Ruth Kern Talks Books

In the world of needlework books, Ruth Kern is a legend.  I enjoyed her newsletter for years until it became by subscription only.  (Jane is spelled c-h-e-a-p.)   Now Ruth has started a blog where you can get a taste of the books she carries.  Have fun!
http://ruthkernbooks.blogspot.com/2013/11/needle-news-and-book-reviews-november.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.

Happy Thanksgiving Stitching

Nothing is cuter than the turkey stand up collection Sue has posted for us today.
http://sudukc.wordpress.com/2013/11/27/thanksgiving-2/

Or the turkey Ridgewood has on display.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/11/blog-post_27.html

Or the turkey pillow from Tapestry Fair.
http://tapestryfair.blogspot.com/2013/11/a-thanksgiving-surprise.html

Hope you are having a Thanksgiving full of fun and family and food.  If you aren't, remember that those who are envy you the peace and quiet and time to stitch.  And you belong to the family of stitchers, even if you have no blood ties.

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

Up To No Good, Obviously UPDATED

I love reading needlepoint blogs--I keep up with what everyone's up to that way! Naturally they are all up to no good.... 

First of all,  Linda of Stitching Sisters went to Memphis.  What's in Memphis, you say?  That's where Amy's Golden Strand is located  Linda was there on a Rent Amy Bunger visit and she had a BLAST!
http://nystitchingsisters.blogspot.com/2013/11/what-has-linda-been-doing.html

Sandy Arthur is busy plotting how her first mystery class will work.  She is getting shops together to help people without a local needlepoint emporium find their supplies.  What fun!  It's not only a mystery class, but a scavenger hunt for supplies!  This is the sort of class I love as I enjoy scrounging around for supplies in my ample stash, substituting interesting threads and finding things I want to do a little differently.
http://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-mystery-of-yolanda-more-and-more-of.html

Ruth Schmuff is a veteran of mystery classes and owns Bedecked and Beadazzled in the Baltimore suburbs, so her class mailings come with everything.    If you really need Fun-In-A-Box, this is the class for you.  Ruth is currently working on a Birdy Christmas.  If you like whimsical with bright colors and embellishments, this is the class for you.

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/11/too-much-fun.html

UPDATES:  Here are the latest touches to Ruth's Birdy Christmas.  Who knew that something so silly and fun was also a tutorial on how to make parts of a canvas come forward and recede?!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/12/santa-bird.html

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/12/what-surprise.html

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2014/01/the-bluebird-of-christmas.html

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2014/02/big-bird-is-here.html

So, what have YOU been up to lately?  Don't blog?  Just tell us in the Comments below (or email me at chilly hollowat hotmaildotcom and I'll post for you).

By the way, HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYBODY!
http://needlepointland.com/2013/11/25/basting-the-turkey/

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

All I Can Say Is WOW

I usually try to have something special for holidays to share, so this morning I'm introducing you to Nerdbroidery and her "Shadows of the Apt" embroidery and stump work.  I've never heard of Adrian Tchiakovsky and his series.  Anyone read them?  Actually, it doesn't matter if you have because we certainly will understand the skill and work put into the piece she stitched based on images and themes from the book, even if the characters are unknown to us.
http://nerdbroidery.wordpress.com/2012/05/08/bugs-and-the-shadows-of-the-apt/#more-51

Enjoy!  Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

Written 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 Santas Just in Time for Christmas UPDATED

Just in time for Christmas, Leigh Designs has released four new designs, from a planned series of eight Russian Santas.   Each Santa is about six inches high on 18 count ecru canvas.  They are small enough for ornaments but will make lovely stand ups for a table or mantalpiece.  Here they are--
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Grp833x.html

I'm going to stitch one right here on Blog.  I'll post every stitch diagram and thread selection, so you can follow along, then make all the information up into a stitch guide for the shops later.  Which one do you think I picked?  Which one do you hope I choose?

Once my Russian Santa arrives, I'll get started.   I need to go rummage in my stash for threads and beads and crystals and felt.

Or maybe velvet....

In the meantime,  С Рождеством.

(That's Merry Christmas in Russian for all my Russian friends!)

UPDATE:  Enriched Stitch is planning a club for the first four Russian Santas starting in March 2014.
http://astheneedleturns.com/russian-santas-club/

Written 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 and Tricks From the Clever Needlepointer

There are a lot of smart stitchers Out There and many of them blog. Today I have a collection of smart ideas from all over that may come in handy in your stitching life. First up is Mary Agnes in Vero Beach, whose staff came up with a clever way to deal with running out of thread for a stocking. (By the way, the singing turkey link she mentions is hilarious!)
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2013/11/saving-ones-bacon-stitching-wise.html

Diane has a very clever way of making sure both sides of a coat or other stitched clothing match.  And no, I hadn't figured this out!  By the way, notice that the Holy Family have a golden yellow background while the Wise Men all have a blue background.  This is a very clever way of making the central figures of the Nativity stand out.  Kudos to Diane!
http://www.dianestakingtimeouttoneedlepoint.com/2013/11/nativity-update.html

Linda demonstrates an easy way of using cording to outline areas of your canvas.  She is making rings for her Shelly (I think) Twelve Days of Christmas piece #5.
http://splittheneedles.blogspot.com/2013/11/rings-on-her-fingers.html

Got any clever tips?  Either blog about them or share them in the Comments below, please!

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

Leveraging ANG

Melita, who is inventive beyond compare, and her guild are using two Stitch of the Month stitches from the ANG website to create simple and fun Christmas ornaments.  Learn a new stitch--make a pretty ornament for your tree (or for a friend).  Win-win!
http://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2013/11/19/practice-ornaments/

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

The Quail's Quill for Thanksgiving

The Thanksgiving edition of the e-newsletter from Quail's Run is available on the Internet now.  Click on the link to start reading about the latest threads to arrive, new trunk shows, pages and pages of inspiring designs from customers fresh from the finishers,  a little essay about the differences between needlepoint and cross stitch, and much more.  So put the turkey or ham in the oven, pour a mug of hot cider with a cinnamon stick to swirl the spices, and settle down to read.
http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk//launch.aspx?eid=32f13437-7c23-4676-9114-68da9a8ff3f9

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

Talking Turkey

Actually, we are talking turkey work today.   If you have a Facebook account and belong to the Needlepoint group known informally as Needlepoint Nation, you will have seen Elaine ask what folk's favorite thread for turkeywork was.  This quickly morphed into a discussion of the easiest way to do turkeywork, with Don Lynch of Associated Talents posting his favorite technique.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10202498803651684&set=gm.568890126521483&type=1&theater

This inspired Kimberly to post her favorite technique and threads on her blog.  Isn't it nice that the designers we love are so willing to share how they master a somewhat difficult technique?
http://akimberlydesign.blogspot.com/2013/11/turkey.html

By the way, my favorite threads for turkeywork are silk/wool blends with a little metallic mixed in.  Lush!

Written 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 Celebrate Small Business Saturday

American Express is offering a discount for all those who use their AMEX cards at a small business the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Needle Nicely explains how it works.
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2013/11/small-business-saturday-by-american.html

Like Needle Nicely your favorite shop may not be usually open on Saturdays and you may not use American Express credit cards, but I think it would be nice if we all ordered something from one of the needlework shops we adore Thanksgiving week sometime as a gesture of support for all their hard work.

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

Melissa and The Paper Whites

Some designers (SharonG and Leigh Designs come to mind) do needlepoint their own canvases but few do it better than Melisasa Shirley.  Melissa Shirley Designs just showed off a new design of a small gray Cardinal female and flowers (mostly paper whites with a yellow Christmas cactus in bloom) in a vase on a table with a pine cone on their official FB page. Melissa herself is stitching it for the January trade show. The second link shows the paper whites (beads over felt padding) and the cardinal. Use the arrows to see more.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152061437084252&set=a.10150103192084252.304722.370199729251&type=1&theater

I think it is going to be lovely.  If you have a Facebook account, "like" Melissa Shirley Designs to watch this grow.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152066552844252&set=a.10152066551874252.1073741867.370199729251&type=1&theater

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

Free Needlework Nibble

The latest Needlework Nibble from Thistle Threads is a free Do It Yourself paper casket to hold orts, in honor of the company's 17th Century reproduction casket and history classes.  The little box's instructions are in PDF files and show one of nine styles of embroidered caskets that the casket classes are studying.  Click on the thumbnail photos to download the pattern and instructions.  These make fun projects for the kids who are home during the holidays and make nice party favors.  They are unique, just like us stitchers!
http://thistle-threads.com/teaching/projects/webprojects/nwn_112013_minicasket.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 Profile of Krienik

Thanks to Sare Leigh, I learned of this newspaper article profiling the Kreinik Company and all their products.  Who knew that Kreinik metallics stand up to both salt water and chlorine?!
http://www.statejournal.com/story/23851341/parkersburg-thread-company-has-success-sewn-up

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

Off To See the Wizard

Vicky has been dog sitting for the editor of Needlepoint Now, so she was able to make a few side trips while she was visiting the poodles who "own" the magazine. Naturally, she went straight to Mindy's Needlepoint Factory. Yes, that Mindy! She owns a shop as well as being a painted canvas designer. I have no idea how she does it.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/a-little-diversion/

http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/just-stuff/

If you'd like to visit Mindy Patterson's shop but can't make the trip, here's the link to a video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7W4iD88VDc

You can no longer see a small selection of the trims Mindy sells online, but a call to the shop should help you find a wonderful button or ribbon or lace to finish one of your canvases.  Here are some photos of the interior, just to whet your appetite.  Click on various categories on the left side of the page to see Mindy's hand painted canvases.
http://www.mindysneedlepoint.com/Mindys_Needlepoint_Factory.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.

Matchbooks and Pickles--Christmas Stitching

A lot of folks stitch decorations for the holidays but today I have something totally different in holiday needlework. First, Diane talks about stitching pickle ornaments and their meaning.  Even though pickles only appear as appetizers on my holiday table, it was a fun read.
http://www.dianestakingtimeouttoneedlepoint.com/2013/11/theres-pickle-in-my-christmas-tree.html

Then Renee talks about matchbook covers for Hanukkah, which of course has nine candles in the menorah to light.  I think it is a clever way of decorating a useful and important object used in the celebration.
http://needlepointofview.com/2013/10/31/handmade-holiday-gift-ideas/

UPDATE:  Unchiffonfonfon does matchbook finishing, just in case you need some.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C94xjW6Ruav/?g=5&img_index=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.

Welcome Two Million Page Views

Sometime last night Blog's counter hit a million three hundred thousand page views. Combine this with the original blog's seven hundred thousand page views when I blogged at Yahoo, and two million visitors have been to the Chilly Hollow Needlepoint Adventure since 2006. That's a LOT of needlepointers! 

Who'd a thunk it?

Thanks!  Let's make a toast to two million more, shall we?

Written 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 the Fulkerson Way

This morning I have some wonderful stand ups for Christmas and Halloween from Cheryl Fulkerson. They were done for Nimble Needle's customers. 
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/11/labors-of-love-trunk-show-through-dec.html

If you are charmed, you will want to pour a cup of your favorite beverage and visit the Cheryl's Needlework Finishing website.  It looks pretty barebones when you arrive at the home page but click on something and the delights will start to unfold like one of those dried paper flowers you drop in a glass of water.  Start clicking and all sorts of wonderful items will bloom!
http://www.cherylsfinishing.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.

Organization

Yesterday we toured DMC's factory and peeked into their archives. Today I have links to several DMC customers' organizational schemes. We are always looking for ideas on how to keep our threads neat and tidy, so I hope you find this article interesting. 
 http://dmc-threads.com/dmc-thread-organization-inspiration/

Written 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 Walk Down Memory Lane"

Thanks to the Needlework Retailer's mention on Facebook, I know the 18th annual juried needlework exhibit sponsored by Stitching Pretty is happening at Montpelier Mansion until December 1.  I hope if you are in the Baltimore area you get to go!
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/maryland/howard/laurel/ph-ll-needleart-exhibit-20131101,0,3042252.story

Written 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 Nimble Needle Speaks From Atlanta

The Nimble Needle's latest newsletter is available for a fun read over your morning beverage today.  They show off new threads and scissors fobs, brag about the Robin King class from a few weeks ago, and show off a new stitch diagram for your stitching pleasure.  They also talk about two new clubs and showcase some wonderful finished projects from their talented customers.  They are even having a finish your own class if you need an ornament made up fast for the holidays and want to learn how to do this yourself.  It is the next best thing to a visit for us stay-at-home types!
http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=45d1a2a693824b7bef0df6f6c&id=03040f35aa&e=601a0925ea

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

Touring DMC

This summer DMC had a contest, with first prize being a tour of their factory and archives in France. One of the winners has blogged about the experience.   DMC talks a bit about the trip on their blog, with links to the two part article about what the winners saw when they visited DMC.  It's fascinating to see all that she saw and imagine more.
http://dmc-threads.com/dmc-archives-tour/

Written 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, He Designed Needlepoint

Once upon a time Joel Arthur Rosenthal went to Paris where he opened a needlepoint shop with his Swiss partner.   He designed and painted needlepoint canvases, and was known for experimenting with "unusually colored yarns."
http://www.forbes.com/forbes/2006/1009/306.html

He also worked in film and later on starting designing jewelry which is what he is known for today.
http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/2/63cae7d8-414f-11e3-9073-00144feabdc0.html#axzz2kRjOYGN6

Starting November 20 (today), the Metropolitan Museum will host an exhibit of 400 pieces of JAR jewelry.   If you happen to be in The City then, please stop by and enjoy a fellow stitcher's other work.  Many thanks to Needleprint for bringing JAR's early history to my attention (and for showing off some of his exquisite jewelry).
http://needleprint.blogspot.com/2013/11/from-needlepoint-designer-to-celebrity.html

If you ever stitched anything by JAR, please let me know.  I am dying to see his needlepoint 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.

Davis Hardware at Work

I'd heard of Davis Hardware in Texas because folks are always talking about taking items there to be framed but I'd never known anything about the shop or seen any of their work until the designer Joan Eidman wrote about them in her blog. 
http://joaneidman.com/framing-needlepoint-at-davis-hardware/

The flowered heart is a John Johannsen/Melissa Shirley piece, by the way.  I think the dog and cat piece is from The Point of It All, but I am not certain.  Does anyone recognize 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.

Finishing Friday

Baby stitching seems to be in the air at Ridgewood!  
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/11/blog-post_19.html

By the way, this didn't publish on a Friday. Blog burped, changed the date of this article and published it immediately instead of saving it for later.  Sorry!

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

Cats Never Walk Alone

Cats rarely walk alone when they are magnets!  Ruth Schmuff has six wonderful cat magenta, all the same and all different. Here's the link-- 
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/11/cats-are-like-potato-chips.html

Puurrrrrrr

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

Sandy Arthur's Classes for TNNA Winter 2014

We regular stitchers aren't the only ones who take classes. Your shop owner does, too. They want to learn interesting techniques and play with the newest threads just as much as you do and they are always trying to keep up with things to help their customers, so TNNA offers classes at the trade shows. Here are all the fun things that Sandy Arthur is going to teach this winter in San Diego.
http://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/10/to-market-to-market.html

There is a huge variety of designs to choose from and you know the best part?  Sandy is probably willing to teach these at a shop near you.
http://www.sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/11/popularclasses-for-2014-looking-for.html

http://www.sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/11/more-new-to-consider-after-market-leigh.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.

Needlepoint Now for $2-$3

Although I've put this in the Trunk Show and Sales category, I wanted to tell everyone Needle in a Haystack is clearing out back issues of embroidery magazines. You can find 2010, 2011 and 2012 issues of Needlepoint Now for $2-$3 plus there are lots of other embroidery, sampler or cross stitch magazines on sale.
http://www.needlestack.com/WebStore/Magazines/Magazines.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.

Improvising Threads

I am sure we've all not had the right thread color and no shop access problem at one time or another.  Spilt the Needles just won my Smart Cookie Award for her clever way of handling that problem!
http://splittheneedles.blogspot.com/2013/11/gray-clouds.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.

Embroidery for the Little Boy in You

If you have a male child who is turning up his nose at your stitching, show him this. 
http://saves9embroidery.blogspot.com/2013/10/night-knight.html

Pippa Foulds rocks!

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

Coco Chanel Carried Her Needles This Way

I might be feeling too fanciful today but I think this is the sort of needle case Coco Chanel would have used! 
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2013/11/needle-case-for-executive.html

I also think it is charming but then I love pink.  Briefcases, not so much.

Written 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 Books?

I don't know about you, but this time of year with Christmas on the horizon and winter closing in, I start to pull out my needlepoint books, re-reading old favorites and looking for new ones to add to my collection.   Of course I am always looking for a bargain and for books suitable for presents for my stitching friends (at least that's what I tell myself as I browse....)

Marrianne at New Needlepoint knows this and has started laying out the goods for my inspection.
http://needlepointtalk.net/2013/10/27/stitch-books-extravaganza#utm_source=feedly

Here's the link to her shop.  She specializes in books but she also offers canvases that she'll kit out for you.  Temptation is all over this site, so don't click unless you can resist the lure of a new (or new to you) book!
http://www.newneedlepoint.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.

Sandy Arthur Does Mysteries UPDATED

Sandy Arthur has just announced her first mystery class, which will feature Yolanda from the Tapestry Fair Day of the Dead series. Yolanda is one of Manuel Salas's skeleton ladies, but a very stylish one with orange streamers and colorful braids.  The class will last six months and each month's mailing may vary according to whether you want Evertites or regular stretcher bars, etc.  The details are here.  If you want to do something fun, then hire Sandy as your guide to stitching Yolanda!
http://www.sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/11/0-0-1-613-3196-kinberger-law-office-456.html

UPDATE:  Sandy is researching shops that will provide supplies for anyone joining Sandy's class, just in case you don't have a local shop to help you.  There are more details about how the lessons will work here as well.  Sounds like fun, sort of a mystery class with a scavenger hunt for the threads!
http://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-mystery-of-yolanda-more-and-more-of.html

http://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2013/12/the-mystery-ofyolanda-yolanda.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.

Quilting in Space

Thanks to DMC's blog mentioning the video, we can all see Astronaut Karen Nyberg talking about the challenges of making a quilt block while working on the International Space Station. 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0c1CijmH7o

I thought **I** had trouble keeping up with my scissors...!!!

Written 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 Hand Made Item Better Than Mass Market

Needlepoint Land reminds us that although we can buy a cheap mass market needlepoint hip flask, Elizabeth Turner has lovely canvases and leather flasks so you can customize your needlepoint to the person who will carry this.  You also will get a leather wrapped flask with accent needlepoint which I think will help keep the stitching clean as hands won't touch it constantly.
http://needlepointland.com/2013/10/22/christmas-cheer/

Here are the designs available from Elizabeth Turner.  I believe the monograms can be customized to the letters of your choice but check with your local shop on that before you order.
http://elizabethturnercollection.com/needleptDesigns_flask.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

Today on Finishing Friday I have a gorgeous floral on black pillow from a Tony Minieri class that is both fancy and restrained.  The finishing is also restrained and just perfect.   I think it is lovely.
http://tapestryfair.blogspot.com/2013/11/another-finish-but-not-by-me.html

Needle Nicely, true to their ocean front location, has a wonderful fish ornament wreath to show off.  The secret is in the finisher who makes those 3-D fins come alive!  The stitching is restrained here, too, making the fish shape the focus, not the stitching.
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2013/11/fish-wreath.html

Ridgewood has a customer who had their own take on Easter egg canvases--instead of making them into oval stand ups, the finisher made little box shapes.  Unusual and very very pretty!
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2013/11/blog-post_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.

The Ort Box, But With a Twist UPDATED

One of ANG's most popular fund raising projects has been Marilyn Owen's Ort Box.  It's a little box that folds up for travel, then unfolds to hold your little thread snippets (orts) in one place until you are ready to discard them all.  Here you can see Melita's articles on working her Ort Box.
http://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/category/ang-main-line-stitchers-chapter/ort-box/

ANG just announced a new design by Marilyn--a folding org box with outside pockets to hold your tools.  It's very cute!  The announcement on the ANG email list read:

"Do you love small usable projects? Need something to keep all those orts under control? And your scissors or laying tool handy? Then you need the Ort Box with a Twist! This delightful project was unveiled at Seminar 2013, another ort box design by Marilyn Owen, and it is fabulous stitching fun. Just go to this address on the ANG website and download the order form! 

http://needlepoint.org/Merchandise/ort-box-twist.php

It's available for anyone, not just ANG members, so let all your friends and neighbors know about it. It's Marilyn's way of saying "Welcome to the world of needlepoint!" and we can't thank her enough. All proceeds from the sales go to support ANG's education programs. You say your friends can't needlepoint? Buy them a lovely gift and teach them to stitch!"

The link ANG provided on their website has photos of the Ort Box With A Twist and if you belong to ANG's email Yahoo Group, there are more photos in the Yahoo Group's photo album.

Once you arrive at the ANG website, there will be a second link to the order form.  I think you have to print it out and mail it in with payment.  No electronic shopping, in other words.  But it is a wonderful small project for stitching play time, to teach that small child in your life, or to create a Christmas gift before The Big Day is here.

UPDATE:  Sara Leigh says the Ort Box with a Twist isn't child's play, but it might be suitable for a teen to work.  She also found a way to pay online using an online payment company I've never heard of, so explore the ANG site carefully if you want to use that payment method.  Thanks for the help, SL!

Written 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 Choice of Skin Tone

I was impressed when I stumbled across a Nativity set on the Under the Rainbow website that allows a shop to specify skin color when they order the set for a customer. As we become more and more diverse (my grandkids are Welsh, Syrian, Spanish, and Danish, i.e., they are Americans) this is an option I am happy to see!
http://www.undertherainbowdesigns.com/childrens.html

By the way, if you want to see the rest of the Children's Nativity Pageant set, click on "Back to Design Listings" and then "Children's Nativity Pageant" at the bottom of the page.

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

When I Win the Lottery UPDATED

When I win the lottery I plan to stitch a needlepoint belt and ask Chuck Pinnell to make the belt up.  Maybe I'll buy a horse and he can make me a saddle or boots to match?  (Or maybe I'll just ask him to finish a needlepoint purse for me to carry.  Purses don't have to be fed, groomed and ridden.)
http://horsecountrychic.blogspot.com/2011/06/chuck-pinnell-leather.html

Many thanks to Horse Country Chic for reporting on Chuck and his lovely leather goods.

UPDATE:  I didn't know that Lee Tougas used Chuck for his camera bag strap and belt finishing.  If you aren't familiar with Lee's designs, he does custom NP canvases (which he usually stitches, too) for camera bag straps.  They are gorgeous!
https://www.facebook.com/lee.tougas

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

Today's Smart Cookie Award Winner

Suzanne just won today's Smart Cookie Award (which I just made up). Read about what she did to move me to make up a title just for her here. 
http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2013/11/s-is-for-suzanne.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 Use For Your Magnet Collection

Peggi at Tapestry Fair has come up with another use for your needle magnet collection--decorate cuff bracelets with them!  The nice thing about this if you have a large collection of magnets is you can change out your magnets to match the season or your mood.  If you look closely at the photograph, you can see plain round magnets in a pattern accented by the fancy jeweled ones.  Very clever!
http://tapestryfair.blogspot.com/2013/10/be-your-own-jewelry-designer.html

I expect we'll see some of these at various classes in the coming year.  They are not on the Tapestry Fair website yet but you can contact Peggi there and ask to be cuffed.
http://www.tapestryfair.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.

Boo Beads and More

Ruth Schmuff has finished her mystery piece for Halloween.  He's funny, from the beads on Boo to those tiny little feet to the metallic background and those white emote lines. Bet they glow in the dark! His hands wave and his teeth glow. He's really a scream. LOL
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/11/a-very-special-visitor-or-two.html

The next mystery class will be the Christmas Bird Collage.   Stay tuned....
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/needlepoint/Mystery-Classes--a-24.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.

Do You Need Something Stitched?

With Ghost Stitchers apparently no more, I thought I'd collect a list of shops that offer stitching services.   I've been told the following shops offer stitching services.  I don't know the cost, the quality of the work, or anything else about their services.  For details, email or call the shop closest to you.  In no particular order, here they are:

Beth's Needlepoint Nook - they will stitch anything for anyone and have done rugs and stockings with guides
http://bethsneedlepoint.com

The Needle House
http://www.theneedlehouse.com/newsletter/Summer_2016_Web.pdf

Old World Designs
http://www.oldworlddesigns.com

Rittenhouse Needlepoint
http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.com

The Needlepointer
Linda Wimer can be reached at The Needlepointer through the shop at their phone 425-252-2277.http://us1.campaign-archive2.com/?u=2b1a4dafdf1ba6e29e773aa79&id=bcae16e4cc&e=73961ee0ea

http://www.theneedlepointer.com


2 The Point
http://www.topoint.com

Needle Nicely
http://www.needlenicely.com

http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2011/11/stitching-for-hire.html

The Point of It All
http://thepointofitallonline.com

Needlepaint
http://www.needlepaint.com/blog/2014/01/08/beautiful-and-cool-custom-needlepoint-pillows/

Needlepoint Alley
http://needlepointalley.com/site/?page_id=23

Needlepoint Points West
http://www.needlepointswest.com

Red Finch Stitches
http://redfinchstitches.tumblr.com/stitchingservices

Enriched Stitch
http://enrichedstitch.com

Needlepoint Breeze
http://www.needlepointbreeze.com

Needlepoint for Fun
http://www.needlepoint-for-fun.com/needlepoint-stitching-service-we-can-stitch-your-canvas.htm

Flying Needles
https://theflyingneedles.com/pages/stitching-guides

In Stitches Atlanta
http://www.institchesatlanta.com

Spiral Up Stitchery
This is a group in Puerto Rico that will stitch unfinished projects or do canvas restorations.  Right now their website is off line, possibly due to the dislocations the hurricanes of 2017 have brought to the island.
https://www.facebook.com/pg/SpiralUpStitchery/about/

http://spiralupstitchery.org/

Keep Me In Needlepoint in New York State- Call on a Tuesday and ask for Miriam who will set you up with stitchers
https://www.keepmeinneedlepoint.com

Needlepoint Studio of Sarasota
https://www.needlepointstudio.com/

Stitching Fox (North Carolina)

https://www.stitchingfox.com

Elena Siurna

Email her at Etetexas@netscape.net

Folks on Facebook who say they will stitch for pay (remember, I have no way of vetting these people)--
Linda Breman (the Hippie Stitcher)
Beth Burns Gilbert
Susan C. Hudnall
Ilene Levine
Kathy Worley
Ginny Stapleton
John Touhey - specializes in stitching stockings
https://www.facebook.com/john.touhey.5?fref=nf

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/1210755452334944/

Lauren Ryan
https://www.facebook.com/lauren.ryan1?fref=gc&dti=108537025890131

Jane Anderson
https://www.facebook.com/jane.anderson.9277583

Rebecca S. Then
Email thonirst@aol.com phone 615-331-1569.https://www.facebook.com/rebecca.s.thoni


If your local shop offers such services, please let me know and I'll add them to the list so folks searching for help know where to ask.  You can either use the Comments section below or email me personally at chilly hollow athot mail dot com and I'll add to this article for you.  Thanks!

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

Shops Always Surprise Me

I am always being surprised by shop owners. They work so hard and have so many talents, yet when one of them mentions some of their talents in passing, I am always amazed. In this little article, Needle Nicely talks about their design studio and how it creates wonderful alphabets for customers.  I had no idea the shop created their own designs in-house or that they worked with the amazing artist Trubey who used to own the shop.  Enjoy reading a little bit about the process here.
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2013/11/alphabets-alphabets.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.

Barbara's Simple Monograms

A good charted alphabet is hard to find!  Barbara Bergsten has come to the rescue, however. She posted a nice clean alphabet on her blog yesterday. The next time you want to put your initials on a piece, whether it is subtle lettering in the background to sign your piece, or a pretty monogram on a piece destined for your tote bag or chair pillow, or lettering for a Christmas stocking, Barbara is happy to help you out.
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2013/10/how-to-chart-needlepoint-initials-worksheet.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.

Tantalizing Glimpses

Yesterday in the tantalizing way all us stitch guide writers have of showing off just a bit of our work, I posted two photos on Needlepoint Nation (the Facebook group of needlepoint fanatics) showing some of my two latest stitch guides.   Both are from Leigh Designs.   Can you guess what these two photos are?

The top photograph shows the maple tree from Leigh's Japanese Tea House.  This design was originally intended to be used in Lee's nylon tote bags but I think Leigh Designs plans to frame the model when it reaches them later this week.  Here's the original canvas.
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Sgl7610.html

By the way, the little geisha magnet was from Mag Friends and I think they are sold out, but you might find one in a shop if you look around. I bought it nearly two years ago.

Leigh's Japanese Tea House Finished

Here is the finished tea house.  I used a layering technique to make the maple leaves more realistic and adapted Or Nue' for the painted and gilded eaves of the tea house itself.  The sage green background is unstitched to help provide contest with the Japanese maple leaves, but I listed the perfect thread to use in case you hate unstitched areas on your designs.  This piece was stitched with the new Silken Straw in three places, but I listed substitutes that will give a similar look for each area if you want to shop your stash instead of ordering a completely new thread.  

The second photo is a close up of one of Leigh's Water Babies.  This is Fantine, who has peacock eyes on her mermaid's tail.  (I've also written guides for Alta and Mimsy but there are no photos of them yet.)
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Grp441x.html

Everyone asks about the curls.  These were Sue Parson's idea.  They are made of ribbon floss.   Sue had seen this used somewhere and asked me how to create curls from this thread and with a little experimentation I was able to figure out the technique.   Sue did a lovely job creating the model.  Here is her finished and framed piece.  If your shop is going to the January TNNA show, I think they'll be able to see this in person at the Leigh Designs booth.  Sue is very kindly loaning it to Leigh.

Fantine All Stitched But Not Framed Yet

Your shop can order the guide and canvas of either of these for you directly from Leigh Deisgns, but you can visit the CH Stitch Guides blog and order the stitch guide only straight from me if you happen to have the canvas already.
http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com/p/want-to-buy-chilly-hollow-stitch-guides.html

Hope you enjoyed the full disclosure!

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

Sometimes You Just Have To Go Your Own Way

Leigh Designs' Barcelona from the ESPANA Series

Remember almost two years ago (Two YEARS? Where does the time go?!!!?) when I stitched the coaster size of Barcelona for Leigh Designs?   Here's the original unstitched canvas which you will want to look at so you can compare what I did with the design to the original which is pictured above.
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Sgl6250.html

Now look at the link below.  Jean Phillips is stitching the same piece right now and is making it all her own.  I'm fascinated!
http://lovingstitches.typepad.com/a-needlepoint-journal-abo/2013/10/floating-sunflowers-a-return-to-joyful-color.html

Jean has emphasized the flowers by adding more of them and removing the background lace, leaves and the china plates.  It's very inspiring to see what she's done.  If you look closer you will see the piece is all in tent stitches, with beads and buttons added as emphasis.  It's a very clever way of embellishing a design without sacrificing any of the detail that you can get with tent stitches.

I swear I'm adding a little bit of me to my next project!

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

Medieval Medley

Because Joni Stevenson's blog is full of stitching tips and help, we forget sometimes that she teaches all over. Here is her Medieval Medley stitched by Jan for your viewing pleasure. It's it lovely?!
http://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2013/10/15/medieval-medley-by-joni-stevenson-finale/

Didn't know Joni had a blog?  Here's the link.  What are you waiting for?!
http://creative-stitch.blogspot.com

You can see more of her beautiful teaching pieces on her website.  She's a very talented designer and teacher.  I've particularly partial to "The Wave."  What's your favorite?
http://www.jonisdesigns.com/Workshops.html

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

New Magnets from PFOS

Fans of Pocket Full of Stitches or just plain admirers of fun holiday magnets will want to check out the shop's latest magnets. They are inexpensive and fun and some are souvenirs of one of the best shops around. 
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2013/11/square-tile-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.

Kreinik Brings Us Something Totally Different

Kreinik reminds us that they have some wonderful silk gauze kits. These come with everything you need--threads, silk gauze mounted in a little cardboard mat, even a needle. If you are really lucky, you might be able to get a kit that has a broach setting as well to mount your prize in when you finish it.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2013/10/time-to-stitch-on-something-different.html

Here's Erica Michael's website for silk gauze designs, in case you were curious.
http://ericamichaels.com

If you are tempted, here are her tips for stitching on silk gauze.  Use one ply of DMC cotton floss or one ply of any brand of silk floss but remember to tie off on the back as far from the edge of the motif as possible if you aren't covering the entire piece of silk gauze in stitches.  Those tiny silk stitches wiggle loose!   She uses size 28 tapestry needles but I prefer beading needles myself.  I would add that the old fashion wire threaders work best to get these tiny needle eyes threaded.  Put a drop of Super Glue on the base where the wires attach.  We stitchers don't know our own strength!
http://ericamichaels.com/silk-gauze.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.

I Joined Google Plus

Yesterday I joined Google Plus, but only because I was forced to and I did it under protest. I keep up with blogs using Feedly.   Apparently Google and Feedly have made some sort of agreement that you can't log into Feedly except if you log in via your Google Plus account. So I set up an account and disabled every setting I could find. I expect those of you who belong to Google Plus will see Chilly Hollow is a member but I plan to never use the system. I'm not even setting up a Google Plus button on Blog.   I don't like Facebook-like sharing of information and I sure don't like being forced to join these things as the price of using free services like Feedly.

I plan to research alternatives and when/if I find one, I'll delete the Google Plus and Feedly accounts. This is just to let folks who belong to either system know that they might see my name but hopefully they will never see anything else there.

I have a feeling that this is not the last time Google tries to force me into programs I don't want.  Maybe I'd better research WordPress (which I loathed when I tried it) in case I have to move Blog.

Just FYI

[Jane stomps off....]

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

Check Out the Couch Pillows

I thought you might like to watch this interview with Linda Rondstadt, who is a rabid needlepointed just like us. She's facing health issues now that impact her stitching, but we can wish her well and hope she finds another way to enjoy her needle art. 
http://abcnews.go.com/WNT/video/diane-sawyers-exclusive-interview-linda-ronstadt-20254902

Written 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 Wig Maker

O'jishi from Leigh Designs' 

Needle Works has a lovely pair of stitches diagrammed on their blog as part of their Share a Stitch Sunday program.  First they've diagrammed Cashmere Blocks, which is the same stitch I used on O'jishi's background (photo above).  It's a lovely lovely stitch that I associate with Wendy Harwood's designs as she used it for backgrounds quite often.
http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2013/09/share-a-stitch-sunday-september-22.html

Secondly, Colleen has beautifully diagrammed what she calls the Wigmaker's Stitch, which is exactly how I was taught to make fringe.  This stitch makes wonderful hair and beards, as you can see in this recently finished auction for Tony Minieri's "Ancient One."
http://www.ebay.com/itm/RARE-Anthony-Tony-Minieri-Ancient-One-Canvas-Threads-Stitch-Guide-1999-/271295300285?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f2a75c2bd

Written 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 Tool Caddy

Mary Corbet reviews the JR Crafter's tool caddy in this new article. If it catches your fancy, Mary is running a contest to give one away. The details are at the end of the article.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/11/needlework-tool-caddy.html

If you'd like to see the rest of JR Crafter's items, here is their website.  It has a section that links to their Etsy store where you can buy as well.
http://jrcrafter.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

My friend Betty and I are talking about finishing one of her lovely Edie and Ginger pieces as a serving tray so I was very glad to see this nice oak tray from Patches n Planks.   It comes in a dark oak finish or in cherry as well as in a rectangular shape.  Click on Cross Stitch Products to see more.
http://yarntree.typepad.com/needlework_news/2013/10/square-tray-for-your-cross-stitch-needlepoint-or-embroidery.html 

More Halloween finishing, but this time it is the preppy pink and green pumpkin series from Barbara Bergsten.  No more orange Halloween for the non-traditional decorators!
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2013/10/halloween-needlepoint.html

There is still more non-traditional color over at Ada Hayden's blog where she is showing off customer finishing of her various Eye Candy pumpkin and candy corn designs.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2013/11/fresh-crop-picked-from-pumpkin-patch.html

It's a week after the last World Series but Sheena's got her baseball finishing back.  Isn't this wonderful?
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/halloween-adventures-a-baseball/

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

Silk Comparisons for the Reproduction Embroidererr

Right now reproduction embroiderers in the United States are most interested in 17th Century (think Queen Elizabeth I) embroidery, mostly due to the influence of Tricia Nguyen whose class on stumpwork caskets and now stumpwork mirrors and her work reproducing older styles of threads have been very influential.  However, in my experience European stitchers are more interested in the Medieval period.  I thought everyone would enjoy reading Isis's article on which type of silk is most like what Medieval embroiderers used.  I think at that period the silks they stitched with would have originated in China.  Can you imagine the journey those silks would have made to end up in a great European house?
http://m-silkwork.blogspot.com/2013/10/silk-yarns-comparison.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.

Hey, There's RANDI!!

Oh, look! There's a profile of Randi of The World in Stitches in the Littleton online newspaper.  What fun!  Sadly, the interviewer doesn't understand how technology enhances our stitching but still, it is a nice profile of Randi and the challenges that all shop owners face in the 21st Century.
http://www.wickedlocal.com/littleton/newsnow/x1745249772/The-World-in-Stitches-in-Littleton-competing-with-technology

Many thanks to the Needle Retailer for pointing this out on Facebook.

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