Ideas for Wings

Stephanie has posted photos of finished angels showcasing the stitches used for their wings. Some of these will look great on bird wings, too! Thanks, Steph.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2014/06/wing-stitches.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 10, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Russian Santas: Mistletoe Green

Carolyn Taggart's Merry Mistletoe Santa

Carolyn Taggart has finished another wonderful Russian Santa. This one (above) is Leigh Designs' "Merry Mistletoe Santa."   I think this one's my favorite so far. I just love the background stitch, the bottom border and the fur trim of his hood. His wrapped sash is wonderful as well.  The stitch guide is now available from Carolyn, too!  You can contact her via her Facebook page.

Carolyn is starting work on the Holly Hills Santa next.  Stay tuned!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 29, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Dede's Cat Topiary Garden Canvas

My Cat Topiary Garden Canvas

Do you remember when I stitch dede Odgen's Cat Topiary Garden (above)? 

This is a discontinued canvas and although some folks managed to find one, not everyone did.  But there's good news!  I spotted one at Enriched Stitch!  If you are a fan, hurry over and pick it up while it is on sale.
http://astheneedleturns.com/blow-out-sale/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 28,  2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Musicians Stitch UPDATED

Thanks to Tara, I discovered a new convert to needlepoint-- Macklemore.
http://instagram.com/p/o2f3BawK5a/

A great many actors are converts, since nothing deals with mind-numbing boredom of waiting for the cameras to roll better than stitching, but it looks like musicians are also using needlepoint to be creative when their hands are otherwise idle.  How about this music video created through machine embroidery? (Score by Throne)
http://www.dazeddigital.com/artsandculture/article/20066/1/how-to-stitch-tharsis-sleeps-music-video

Taylor Swift does embroidery, by the way.  (It doesn't appear to be needlepoint OR cross stitch to me but most folks in their 20-30s have never seen any type of handwork, so naturally they can't identify it.)
http://www.mtv.com/news/1840605/taylor-swift-ed-sheeran-started-from-the-bottom-needlepoint/

http://www.buzzfeed.com/reggieugwu/taylor-two-eagles

UPDATE:
http://www.fashionnstyle.com/articles/31018/20141113/taylor-swift-cross-stitches-blank-space-singer-claims-ironic-rap.htm

"Doesn't everyone?"
https://gma.yahoo.com/video/taylor-swifts-hipster-needlepoint-gift-184313200.html

I am happy to see the need to make things with our hands using a needle of some sort isn't confined to  middle-aged or older people who have more free time than younger folk.

UPDATE:  Looks like the younger generation likes gardening, too.
http://online.wsj.com/articles/for-taylor-swift-the-future-of-music-is-a-love-story-1404763219

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 8, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Painting Peeps

One of Squiggee's most popular canvases these days is this little box of Peeps, the traditional Easter chewy marshmallow style of candy available here in the United States in the spring.   I thought it quite interesting that folks like the yellow version best.  If I remember correctly, only yellow and pink peeps were available when I was small and eagerly eating candy from my Easter basket.
http://squiggeedesigns.blogspot.com/2014/05/who-knew.html

It looks like these are painted in roughly four steps.  If you study the photo carefully you will see the sort of pea pod shape, that then has a rectangle and logo added to surround it, then the details such as the polk dots on the box label and the faces of each Peep are added.  Simple to do and simple to stitch but full of spring happiness!

Here is how the real Peeps are made.
http://abcnews.go.com/Business/video/peeps-factory-chicks-born-16090710

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 29, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Theresa's Got a Deal for You

Theresa's got a deal for you, if you, like, wanna run the shop for a while.
http://homesteadneedlearts.blogspot.com/2014/06/the-bad-thing.html

Here's what you are getting into.  I don't think Star is included with the shop.
http://www.homesteadneedlearts.com

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 20, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Need a Little Vision Boost?

If your eyes need a little power boost to see better, you might want to try the drug store magnifiers. They come in various magnification powers but style is lacking. Fortunately, Pocket Full of Stitches has amazing styles available for the fashionable far-sighted person.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2014/06/readers.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 3, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Finishing Friday: Bigger is Better?

Ridgewood has some wonderful finished pieces to show off today.  First, look at the 3-D dolls they saw at the May trade show.  Some are from Sew Much Fun but I don't think they all are.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2014/06/blog-post_3.html

One of Ridgewood's customers stitched this huge under the sea piece.  It is wonderful.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2014/05/blog-post_31.html

Here is the entire screen.  I think the design might be by Truby but I am not certain.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2014/06/blog-post_9.html

Melita has framed her small Bargello pieces in a very fun way.
http://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2014/06/02/bargello-techniques-framed/

http://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2014/06/11/bargello-techniques-sections-3-and-8-for-bookends/

Eye Candy has photos of some of their designs finished.  It's fun to see the various colors.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2014/06/trunk-show-at-fancy-stitches.html

Barbara Bergsten also has a photo of one of her Kiss designs made up.  Spectacular finishing and superb staging!
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2014/06/spectacularly-finished-needlepoint.html

I'm not sure bigger is better, but most of these pieces are fairly large.  Still, great stitching combined with great finishing makes the impact of a small piece very big.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 3, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Ode to Mobile

If you have friends in Mobile, Alabama (or just like the thought of gracious Southern living near the ocean), you will want to see the Kathy Schenkel ornament that Needle Bug in Montgomery has in their shop.   Stitch over the word Mobile to make this a Southern heritage piece.
http://www.theneedlebug.com/blog2/2014/05/for-all-my-mobile-friends/

It has been many years since I regularly made the long trek through the uninhabited wilderness between Montgomery and Mobile (and I ain't NEVER going back in July--I am a Southerner used to the heat but Mobile in summer resembles the surface of the sun) but this ornament takes me back to Alabama.  If your home is where your friends are, Alabama is my true home.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 29, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Bucket Bag

Ridgewood has started posting Finishing Friday treats on their blog and today they show off a bucket bag. I didn't know that was what they are called, but "fabulous" is another word that comes to mind. I think the canvases are available from Clara Wells.  If purses don't float your boat, you will still want to check out the wonderful pillows they photographed for us to admire.  There is even one for a Harvard grad!
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2014/06/blog-post_6.html

Yes, bucket bag canvases are available from Clara Wells.  These are the designs on their website.
http://www.clarawellsneedlepoint.com/bags/bucket-bag/

Clara Wells also has a tote with a similar handle.
http://www.clarawellsneedlepoint.com/bags/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 6, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Cushion-y

If you find yourself getting stiff after a long session in your stitching chair, how about checking out Ridgewood Needlepoint's latest find?  I have plenty of posterior padding myself but this does look like something useful to have!
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2014/05/sit-upon-sit-comfortably-for-hours.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 29, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Cute as a Button

Linda has just finished a cute snowman ornament and posted a photo. Look at the candy cane button! Isn't that the cutest?! 
http://splittheneedles.blogspot.com/2014/06/more-christmas-finishes.html

Buttons sometimes are the perfect finishing touch.  Don't have a fabrics shop or big box crafts emporium locally?  Shop online.
http://www.lotsofbuttons.com/en/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 25, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

All About Outlines

Needlepoint doesn't use outlining stitches nearly as much as cross stitch does. Many cross stitch designs have back stitching as the final step to highlight design elements.   Since I am not that familiar with the technique and have some outlining to do on my current Top Secret project, I was thrilled to find Trish Burr's article on outlines on her blog.  Read it to find out how and why she outlines.
http://trishburr.com/2014/05/02/outlines/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright April 2, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Need Jo's Autograph?

The Needlepoint Book by Jo Ippolito Christensen is THE classic encyclopedia of needlepoint.   I bought the 1976 version and read it cover to cover more than once until I gave my copy to a stitching neighbor when the 1999 edition came out.  I thumb through the newer version quite a bit when I have a problem or just need inspiration.    It covers everything and has a huge number of wonderful stitches diagrammed for your stitching pleasure.  This is the main book I relied on when teaching myself to needlepoint.

There is a 2014 edition planned for this fall,  but stitching bibliophiles will want to grab autographed copies of the 1999 version while Ridgewood has them in stock.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2014/06/the-needlepoint-book-autographed-by.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 21, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Whitman's Sampler Tins

Sampler fans have always enjoyed the candy tins from Whitman decorated in cross stitched sampler motifs. Some of these designs were originally stitched by an expert in crewel embroidery from Martha's Vineyard.   I talked to her in the late 1980s and yes, she was paid partly in cholocate!
http://withmyneedle-ellen.blogspot.com/2012/11/tummy-and-eye-candy-all-rolled-into-one.html

http://withmyneedle-ellen.blogspot.com/2012/11/more-sampler-tins.html

Here is a bit about the sampler designs and the collection of samplers donated to the Philadelphia Museum of Art just before the company was sold to Russell Stover.
http://s3.amazonaws.com/cuttings/cuttingpdfs/33545/ee2d39e07e1925afb62d9ff31e22e3a8.pdf

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 23, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Solving the Umbrella Problem

The Unbroken Thread has posted about the umbrella on the piece Kathy is doing for the Royal School of Needlework class she's taking.  First, here is the finished piece.  Look carefully at the umbrella.
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2014/05/20/rsn-canvaswork-bristol-day-4-done/

Here is what Kathy says about her next attempt to create a better umbrella.
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2014/05/24/creating-a-better-umbrella/

Last year I was privileged to stitch this charmer from Leigh Designs.  This is the large version of Bermuda, from the Caribe' series.
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Mdl6267.html

Silk Ribbon Umbrella Close Up

The paper umbrella was stitched using long stitches in YLI's organza ribbon.  If I were to work it again, I might consider using either Silken Straw or Sea Grass, both of which would give a more papery look to the umbrella.  The ribbon was the perfect color, though, and I like how it turned out.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 25, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Madison Avenue Needlepoint

Thanks to Betsy's sharp eyes and quick camera, I discovered that Hermes's window display for May featured needlepoint.
http://www.aestheticalterations.com/2014/04/26/la-nature-du-foyer-hermes-madison-windows/

Here are Betsy's photographs.  Use the arrows to see more.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=842687735774052&set=pcb.680231762053985&type=1&theater

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 19, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Ornaments to Honor the Military

Enough stitchers are ex-military or are from families with a long tradition of serving in wartime that I thought Sandy Grossman-Morris' custom ornament for her daughter would be something you guys would like to see.  Sandy will create a custom ornament for you as long as your choice isn't too detailed.
http://sandygrossman-morris.blogspot.com/2014/06/military-emblems-needlepoint-canvases.html

I think it is a wonderful idea!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 7, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Ann Spiess Mills Exhibit In August

Rose Angel

Are you a fan of Ann Spiess Mill's needlepoint?  I am.  Ann was an artist and needlepointer working in New Mexico to create unique canvases into the early 1990s.  Her cross stitch charts with her signature faces are almost always available on eBay, but her needlepoint canvases are all originals.  Ann did not create multiples of each canvas.  Each piece was done only once, although you will see themes and Ann's unique symbolism over and over again.

Seven Children in Pueblo

Two collectors of Ann's work have organized a exhibit in Las Vegas, New Mexico for next August. I hope Ann's friends and admirers will be able to see it. Ann's son and daughter Cliff and Rees are seen in the photo below along with Linda and Sharon, the organizers of the exhibit, in the center in a photograph taken at the Historical Society of New Mexico's annual meeting and conference this spring. The stand ups you see are Ann's work. The colcha (traditional New Mexican embroidery normally seen on bed linens) on the table is Ann's old family 1740s colcha made by her great, great, great, great grandmother.  Below is a bit about the exhibit in August, courtesy of Linda and Sharon.

Ann's Family and Friends With Her Work

The colorful creative embroidery of New Mexico folk artist Ann Spiess Mills will be featured with a month long exhibition in Las Vegas, New Mexico, accompanied by an opening day of multimedia programs. Open free to the general public, the Ann Spiess Mills programs will explore her fascinating life and work as well as historical tales of family history in New Mexico. She was completely self taught and joyfully celebrated her freedom from rules. A highly collected artist, she became a very popular teacher as well. Independent researchers, Sharon Stephan, from Hollis, New Hampshire and Linda Anderle of Las Vegas, New Mexico will facilitate this program.

Madonna and Child

EXHIBITION - AUGUST 2 - 30, 2014

Saturday, August 2, 2014
Ann Spiess Mills, New Mexico Folk Artist
Exhibition Opening

Sunday, August 3, 2014
Programs
1:30 pm - The Spiess Family History And their Contributions to New Mexico
2:30 pm - Fibers, Fantasy & Folk Art - Ann Spiess Mills
3:30 pm - Hands-On Workshop in the Manner of Ann Spiess Mills
Materials Fee

Las Vegas, New Mexico
Exhibition, Programs and Workshop - Citizen’s Committee for Historic Preservation
116 Bridge Street
Self-Guided Tour - CCHP 9 Historical Districts Walking/Driving Guide
including Spiess Homes and Grave Sites

Monk in the Kitchen

All the photographs of Ann's canvases are taken from eBay sales over the last five years.  I started collecting them as a way of keeping Ann's work alive.  Fortunately, Sharon and Linda are doing a much better job of that than I am!

Hope you all get to see the exhibit in August.  Mark your calendars and make your travel plans NOW.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 19, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

National Cathedral Needlework Symposium

Thanks to Tara's posting on Facebook, I know that the National Cathedral is having a needlework symposium this October.  I would assume the needlepoint kneelers will be prominently mentioned but I think the National Cathedral also has silk and metal embroidered liturgical banners, altar clothes and vestments which will be embroidery.
http://links.nationalcathedral.mkt4852.com/servlet/MailView?ms=ODc4Mjg1MgS2&r=NDQ3MDgwOTY1NzIS1&j=MzIxMDAwODc5S0&mt=1&rt=0

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 15, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Newest

If crewel embroidery is your thing, you will want to be on the lookout for Hazel Blomkamp's new book Crewel Intentions which is just out. Here's a bit about the book.  Many needlepointers use traditional crewel stitches on their canvases so a book about crewel that uses beads and crystals but no wool threads should be right up their alley.  The projects in the book are lovely, especially the needle book cover.  (sigh)
http://therebelliousneedlewoman.blogspot.com/2014/01/crewel-intentions.html

If counted canvaswork is your first love, then I hope you signed up for Needle Delights' class "Suduko Delight."  In this post Kathy shows off the color ways for the class design.  Enjoy!
http://needledelightsoriginals.blogspot.com/2014/06/last-call-for-sudoku-delight.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 6, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Why You Need an Advent Tree

Why you need an Advent tree, courtesy of Beth's Needlepoint Nook.  #Cute
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=910068692352448&set=vb.340135162679140&type=2&theater

The tree is from the latest club at the shop.  I don't know the details yet but here's information from Facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10204048585635540&set=gm.680167808727047&type=1&theater

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 19, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The App for Working on Black Canvas

I've been remiss in posting a great tip from the counted canvaswork designer Brenda Kocher, whose blog mentions a great app to help those working on black canvas who have an iPad.  It is called Color Softbox and it is free.
http://toldthruneedleandthreads.blogspot.com/2013/08/aurore-boreale.html

You can read a bit about Brenda's design "Aurore Boréale" which was a free design in Needlepoint Now magazine's July/August 2013 issue here.

http://www.needlepointnow.com/wp-content/uploads/NN_NWSLTR-0713.pdf

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Finishing Friday: Listen to Nimble Needle

Stephanie shows off a lovely double-sided snowman, a repost of a friend's work who only posts things on Facebook.  Thanks, Stephanie!
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2014/05/in-case-youre-not-on-facebook.html

The really important finishing today is from Nimble Needle. It's not the pretty pictures that are important--you need to read NN's point about the stitching being from stitchers at different levels of ability with different goals who all got amazing results that fit their vision of needlepoint.
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2014/05/customers-finished-items.html

It's not how impressive your stitching is, it's how great your vision is.  Anyone can have a spectacular finish no matter whether they are a beginner or a long-time needlepoint expert.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 20, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Winterthur Symposium Registration Opens

The next textile symposium at Winterthur Museum is open for registration today, June 19th.  
http://www.winterthur.org/?p=1158

If you are interested in textile history or reproduction embroidery, this is for you.  Of course this 17th Century casket trifle caught my eye as I'm a sucker for historic technique and unusual threads that have been revived in limited runs.
http://thistle-threads.blogspot.com/2014/06/a-poesy-casket-toy.html

Hope some of you are able to go!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 19, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

And Brenda Showed Up

Needle Works just had a retreat and a guest came to stitch along with the participants. Yes, Brenda Stofft herself appeared.   Monica took pictures (thank you!) of the designer at work and of her Nativity set which is the club at Needle Works this year.  Don't miss the finishing of the Holy Family piece!  It's very clever.
http://lazydaisyneedlework.blogspot.com/2014/06/a-little-surprise.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 12, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tallis Bag Charms

Ridgewood posted photos of charms meant to be attached as zipper pulls to tallis bags. I think they might have several uses on Judiaca items myself.   Or maybe you just want to add one to your favorite purse!
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2014/05/charms-these-new-charms-are-designed-to.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 25, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

New Miniatures Forum

The International Guild of Miniature Artisans (in other words, folks who make dollhouse furnishings) has a new online forum!   Elga tells all here.
http://elgakoster.blogspot.com/2014/06/igma-forum.html

I know some Blog readers are really into miniature needlepoint so I wanted to make sure you knew about this wonderful new place to hang out with other miniature lovers.
http://www.fineminiaturesforum.com

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 8, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Which Fiber Should I Use?

Exclamation Point gives some things to consider when choosing threads, particularly if you are a new stitcher.
http://exclamationpoint.org/wordpress/?p=90

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 23, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Frame Weight Alert

People who are looking for frame weight classes like the one Jim Wurth did several years back will be interested to hear that Chandail plans such a class with a bar that acts as a magnet as part of the kit.
http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/137940/0c4d6750d3/1464533477/4b156b9e3f/

The Chandail website mentions the class but without any details.. For that you need to contact the shop.
http://www.chandailneedlework.com

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 7, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Kreinik Talks Silk Gauze

I love stitching on silk gauze. I haven't done any silk gauze pieces since I did Michael Boren's "Schererazade" on 40 count but I'd love to do another piece some day when I have more time for my own stitching. If you are intrigued by silk gauze, you should read what Kreinik (which is a silk gauze distributor) says about it.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2014/03/what-to-stitch-on-silk-gauze.html

The comments that the counted thread and framing shop We of the Needle did about silk gauze might be of interest to you.  Follow the link mentioned to the Erica Michaels site for further information.
http://weoftheneedle.blogspot.com/2014/04/the-myth-of-working-on-silk-gauze.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright April 2,  2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tired of Beading?

If you are tired of adding beads, sequins or crystals to your needlepoint canvas, this video might make you feel better about how lovely the end result will be after all that work.   Wait'll you see the veil on the wedding dress at the end!  The dress and veil are so heavy the model can barely walk and has to put her hands on hips to support the veil and of course to show it off even more.
http://www.eliesaab.com/en/haute-couture/fw-2013-2014#/en/haute-couture/fw-2013-2014/32/0

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 6, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Siddur Season: The Stitched Book Cover

Not being Jewish myself, I had never heard of the Siddur Ceremony, which is a sort of graduation party for kids who have learned enough Hebrew to read prayer books in the original. Naturally, moms and grandmas (and probably dads and grandpas, too) stitch Siddur covers and Renee shows off a lovely finished one on her blog. There are links to other Pepita book cover designs as well, which I found quite interesting.
http://needlepointofview.com/2014/05/15/siddur-ceremony-season/

I love books so perhaps one day I'll stitch a cover for a very special book.  Now I know where to go for finishing.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 16, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Hidden Costs of Shopping Online

Erin is exploring opening an online version of her real shop and discovering all the hidden costs.
http://needlepointland.com/2014/06/06/seller-beware/

Please note the costs aren't just for the seller, the buyer gives up a little privacy in order to get the convenience.  This is yet another reason to patronize that little needlepoint shop in the next town--they are not being forced by the Online Mafia to hand over your shopping information so the Online Mafia can sell other stuff to you than what you wanted to buy.

Just things to ponder.

Hug your shop owner the next time you visit.  The things they put up with!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 6, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Seen in the Wall Street Journal

Key fobs are "in" for the Wall Street trader. Who knew?!   Thanks to Kirk and Bradley for the tip.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303627504579560163057929976?mg=reno64-wsj&url=http%3A%2F%2Fonline.wsj.com%2Farticle%2FSB10001424052702303627504579560163057929976.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 16, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Kreinik Goes Quilting

Doug Krienik's blog has a nice little biography of the company as well as the dates and places of the quilt show in West Virginia Doug will be visiting this summer as one of the sponsors.  You can learn a bit about the company and if you will be in Ripley, WVA in July, make sure you give Doug a big hug from me.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2014/06/the-business.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 3, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A. Bradley is Distributed Far and Wide

A Baby Owl for Christmas

I just heard that Chris has added A. Bradley to the stable of artists Chris Lewis distributing.  This is great news for the designers who now have the burden of painting their canvases and getting them to the shops removed from their To Do list.  All they have to do is create more fun stuff.  Ashley Bradley's stuff is very cute indeed.  See the owl stocking above?  That's in my stash, waiting for a little free time so I can stitch it.  I plan to needle felt the fur trim, by the way.  Watson's fur will create the face trim and Suki's fur will create the tiny ball at the tip of the cap.

Chris Lewis also distributes Needle Deeva.  Shops can place A. Bradley orders by emailing chris.abradleyneedlearts@gmail.com and Needle Deeva orders by emailing Chris@needledeeva.com.  Or you can write

Chris Lewis
A. Bradley Distributor
Needle Deeva Distributor
4523 50th Street
Lubbock, TX 79414

Or just call 830-445-9382.  Chris will be happy to talk about these wonderful designs with you!

Not familiar with these names?  Take a little gander at these!
http://www.needledeeva.com/Whatsnew.html

http://www.abradleyneedlearts.com

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 21, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Finishing Friday:

Today's finishing is a selection of the unusual to the amazing.  First, Stephanie shows off the small sized Painted Pony angels as tiny stand ups.  I love how the bottom of the needlepoint looks like an overskirt with the oval base showing smaller underneath.
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2014/05/another-way-to-finish-painted-pony-mini.html

The "amazing" portion comes from Ada Hayden who shows off a selection of finished biscornus and humbugs in a variety of colors.  These are all her Eye Candy canvases, stitched by a bunch of talented folks.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2014/05/biscornus-and-humbugs-oh-my.html

Another amazing piece is this doll (TJ Designs?) stitched for a daughter.
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2014/06/blog-post_2.html

However, I think the unusual AND amazing award goes to Pocket Full of Stitches which has a fun selection of black and white pillows that'll blow your socks off.  The other pillows they showcase are lovely but the black and white ones are dramatic to the max.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2014/05/finishing.html

I could be wrong, though.  This tiny Barbara Bergsten purse is astounding.  It is either 3 inches square (18 count) or 4 inches square (13 count).  Good things come in small packages, don't they?
http://createneedlepoint.typepad.com/create_needlepoint/2014/05/extraordinary-needlepoint-finishing.html

Enjoy the show!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 17, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The War To End All Wars Altar Frontal

Historical embroidery buffs will find this story of an altar cloth fascinating.  Sadly, I can't see anything like this being done today.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2014/05/hand-embroidery-the-great-war.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 10, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Snow Predicted for July

Suzy at Enriched Stitch just learned that her version of Ewe and Eye's "Warm Greetings" snowmen will be featured in the July/August 2014 Needlepoint Now magazine.  Congratulations!
http://astheneedleturns.com/guess-where-im-gonna-be/

The magazine ought to be arriving in mailboxes toward the end of June.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 10, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Belt Design Contest

Folks who always wanted to design their own canvas might be interested in Needlepaint.com's Design A Belt contest.   They have posted a video about designing your own belt you might find very helpful.  Of course this is to promote their business since if you love the design, you will want to buy it on one of their canvases, but if you win the contest, this will be free.
http://www.needlepaint.com/blog/2014/06/02/design-needlepoint-belt/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 3, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Ann Goes to Coombe Down

I should have titled this Ann goes to Combe Down--and what she learned there! 
http://annjrippin.wordpress.com/2014/05/21/what-i-learned-from-the-ladies-of-coombe-down/

Ann is a British quilter, by the way, who has done some astounding sketchbooks.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 21, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Keenan Variation

The shop newsletter for Bedecked and Beaddazzled is available online now. Besides all the tempting classes and clubs, Ruth has posted terrific diagrams for Keenan Stitch that show a great way of working it in long vertical rows instead of the more normal horizontal path. 
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/content/uploads/bedeckednewsjune2014.pdf

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 2, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Jan Reorganizes

Jan at Thread Medley has been overwhelmed by unstitched projects recently, so she did a little reorganization.  Now she can't see anything but the projects in her current rotation and their threads are close at hand.  No visiting the stash and becoming stressed out by everything that is there, screaming your name!  Very clever, Jan.
http://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2014/05/19/the-new-routine-its-working/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 20, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Artist at Work (With Tiki Heads) UPDATED

Orna Willis is working away on "Vintage Garden," her newest piece. In this blog entry she shows off the two color ways.   I prefer the version at the top of the page since the white coils make this look like a Tiki head to me, turning Vintage Garden into a retro Florida tiki hut with tropical flowers all around.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2014/06/its-almost-here.html

UPDATE:  You can create your own Vintage Garden as Orna has the chart (and a thread kit if you wish) ready for purchase.
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2014/06/so-much-to-show.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 1, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Sorority Girls Need Bling

Suzanne's done a great job on the Delta Gamma heart she stitched for her daughter. Look at the sequins! The best part, though, is the highly padded border. Isn't that wonderful!?
http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2014/06/be-dg.html

There are some very useful ideas here, whether you have a sorority sister to stitch for or not.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 27,  2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Handicraft Club

Read about Rhode Island's Handicraft Club, home of creativity and purpose found in working with one's hands. Don't miss the slide show at the top of the article.  Many thanks to Caryl, by the way, for finding this and mentioning it on Facebook's Needlepoint Nation.
http://www.providencejournal.com/features/lifestyle/health-fitness/20140519-handicraft-club-on-college-hill-in-providence-is-a-sanctuary-for-creativity.ece

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 19, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

English Church Embroidery 1833-1953 (A Review)

Kerry reviews Mary's book about the history of English ecclesiastical embroidery. 
http://weoftheneedle.blogspot.com/2014/05/kerrys-book-review-english-church.html

I don't think many of the designs covered are needlepoint.  I think this is mostly about embroidery, but I do not know for sure.  The review is thorough but the shop is a framing and counted thread-sampler shop so they may have just not mentioned needlepoint kneelers or cushions.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 6, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Hand and Lock "Since 1767" UPDATED

Thanks to Needleprint I've discovered Hand and Lock, a British embroidery company that has been in business since 1767.   They do embroidery for military uniforms, for couture houses, for churches and theatre productions, and of course for individual commissions. 
http://www.handembroidery.com

Have fun exploring the site, reading about the staff and the classes they offer.

UPDATE:  I found more information on the company plus a video on the Embroidery for Ducks blog.  Enjoy!
http://embroideryforducks.com/2011/07/25/hand-lock-part-1/

http://embroideryforducks.com/2011/07/26/hand-lock-part-2/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 12, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

VROOM VROOM!

Are you in love with fast cars? Or is it the mail delivery truck that sets your little heart beating faster? (It's the ice cream truck that gets me going. Please don't tell!) 
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2014/05/the-studio-midwest-trunk-show-3d-cars.html

I don't often see Studio Midwest's 3-D vehicle series showcased.  These will be a quick stitch but so much fun for that car aficionado!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 31, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Blog Changes: Goodbye to Trunk Shows and Sales

The sharp-eyed among you will have noticed a tab has disappeared from Blog this morning. I have decided not to continue to list all the trunk shows and sales any more.  I've done this for about a year as a service to Blog visitors, but I have decided that all I am really doing is making comparison shopping easier.  It was the most popular tab on Blog with fifteen thousand visitors over the last year, but I have always been uneasy about posting sales.  It seems to me that I am essentially encouraging folks to always go for the best price instead of supporting their local shop, assuming they have one.   It's a disservice to the smaller shops that can't afford big trunk show discounts or that can't do constant sales.  It also is a big time sink to manage.  I spent at least 10-20 minutes each morning updating this section of Blog.  If I felt better about the effect this might have on shops, I would continue to spend that time but I have decided it is not something I want to continue.  I encourage any blog or website that wants to do this themselves to do so, but I just can't justify the time to myself any more, not with the effect I think it is having on shops and shopping patterns.

So goodbye to trunks shows and sales!

While I'm on the topic of changes to Blog, someone emailed me pointing out that the list of blogs I maintain here has a lot of them listed that haven't updated in a long time.  My correspondent suggested I prune the list.  But I am reluctant to do this.  The dead blogs may come back to life when their owner has more time, and there is a lot of good information there.  So I think I will keep things as they are and hope that Blogger continues to show when a blog's been updated to make it easier for you to find new postings.

Besides, time is short here in CH.  Pruning the list would take several hours and I don't have that block of time right now.  I never intended Blog to become a news aggregator but since it has evolved that way, I need to keep the time involved in becoming the NP newspaper to a minimum.

Thanks for your support, ideas and for showing up here each day!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 5, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Charley Harper Fan Alert UPDATED

Needlepoint.com is having a Charley Harper trunk show this month and as part of the celebration, they have an exclusive design called "Green Jay" that shows a bird and praying mantis in the tree branches.  Since there are so many Charley fans, I thought I'd let you guys know.
http://www.needlepoint.com/shop/all-canvases/charley-harper.html

UPDATE: This week The Needlepointer pulled threads for several Charley Harper canvases they have in stock.  I thought threadaholics and Charley fans both would love to see their thread ideas.
http://us1.campaign-archive2.com/?u=2b1a4dafdf1ba6e29e773aa79&id=7092174f92&e=d07e5e3f9c

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 6, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Once More, With Meaning

Thanks to Jenny Henry, I have a wonderful essay about creativity for you to read and ponder today.
http://jennyhenrydesigns.wordpress.com/2014/05/29/creating-with-meaning/

Here is the author's website.  Her Adventures in Needlework is available from Amazon.  Anyone seen the book?  What did you think?  The reviews on Amazon indicate that it covers a mix of cross stitch, needlepoint and other techniques.
http://www.emilypeacock.com

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright may 29, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

I Gotta Try This

Tracey is embroidering a floral piece for Williamsburg. You have to see the shading she's doing on her leaves with Burden stitch! So simple, so pretty!
http://tracyafranklin.blogspot.com/2014/05/burden-stitch.html

By the way, the DMC Diament Tracey is using is not commonly available in the U.S. but Mary Corbet can tell you all about it, including where to score some.
http://www.needlenthread.com/2013/06/thread-talk-dmc-diamant.html

(By the way, 123Stitch.com also carries it.)
http://www.123stitch.com/item/DMC-Diamant-Metallic-T

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 5, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Brick Purse

Needle Nicely is working a small boxy purse from JP Needlepoint as a shop model. It's always interesting to see how Mary Agnes works pieces for her traditional clients. 
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2014/05/jp-brick-purse.html

If you are intrigued by the possibilities of "brick" purses, check out Juli Poitras' website.
http://www.jpneedlepoint.com

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 29, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Mary Agnes' Tips: Needle Blending a Background

Can't find the perfect color for your background? Mary Agnes has a brilliant idea that solves this problem. 
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2014/06/trubeys-bow-doorstop-long-time-shop.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 6, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Finishing Friday: DIY with Plastic Cavnas

Jenny Henry has created a classic monogram design for plastic canvas and has done a tutorial on how to make it into a pillow.  It turned out great so I thought I'd post this for folks who have kids at home over the summer who might want to stitch their own pillow and work with you to finish it.
http://jennyhenrydesigns.wordpress.com/2014/04/25/plastic-canvas-monogram-needlepoint-pillow/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright April 25, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Next Big Thing

In Stitches-Atlanta just posted a video on Facebook that shows Laura Taylor demonstrating how to bead letters using stem stitches. This is the next big thing--stringing beads on various stitches.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=690630157661180&set=vb.351241641600035&type=2&theater

Try it with a Rhodes stitch for berries....

Rachel also mentions something in her Tudor Rose class on 17th Century embroidery techniques and threads that I think is starting to intrigue needlepoint teachers and stitch guide designers--using multiple threads in one stitch.  This technique is as old as needlepoint.
http://www.blog.virtuosewadventures.co.uk/wordpress/2014/06/03/starting-on-the-tudor-rose/

This is a bit about the class Rachel is taking, in case you are intrigued.
http://thistle-threads.com.mytempweb.com/teaching/projects/17thcentury/17thcent_tudorrose.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 5, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Dollhouse Needlepoint

Janet Granger has had a customer of her miniature needlepoint designs share photos of several of her dollhouses with Janet's needlepoint in place.   Isn't this fun?
http://janetgranger.wordpress.com/2014/05/08/dollhouse-inspiration-from-denmark/

Folks who feel they don't have the time to do a needlepoint rug should consider doing a miniature.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 9, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tropicana Tips from Ada

Ada Hayden of Eye Candy is a really nice lady. Not only does she give Needlepoint Now magazine some free designs to publish, she adds great photos and additional information to her blog so that when you get your May-June issue and fall in love with Ada's Tropicana Cuff Bracelet, you can visit her blog for additional information and photos. 
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2014/05/introducing-new-design-tropicana-cuff.html

My copy hasn't come yet so I'll just stare at Ada's photos and dream of Tropicana and warmer weather....

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 7, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Time Travel

Thanks to Anny, I discovered this Textile Conservation Studio video that digitally recreates a 400 year old tapestry.   The tapestry is one of a series of tapestries from Hardwick Hall, home of Bess of Hardwick who stitched with Mary, Queen of Scots when Mary was confined at Bess's home by order of Queen Elizabeth I.
http://nttextileconservationstudio.wordpress.com/2014/04/25/gideon-through-time/

It is amazing how things change over 400 years!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© May 9, Copyright 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

All About the System Four Floor Frame UPDATED

If you are in the market for a floor frame and can't try one out before you buy, Needle in a Haystack's thorough review is going to be a Must Read. 
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2014/05/needlework-system-4-stands-review.html

The most important thing in shopping for a floor frame is to analyze how and where you stitch, then see if the particular features of the floor stand you are considering will work in that location and with your stitching style.  Doesn't matter how great a frame is, if you can't lay in bed and stitch with it if that is how you prefer to work, it is not the frame for you.

UPDATE:  Donna says she uses this stand from the side but as the comment section at the NIAH site was closed, she asked me to mention it here, just in case you need your floor frame off to one side instead of in front of you.  It's versatile and will work either way.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 3, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Literary Painted Canvas

If you love canvases with themes based on books, you'll love Ruth Schmuff's new Alice in Wonderland and Edger Allan Poe designs. These are from Sandra Vargas
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2014/05/alice-in-wonderland-as-only-sandra.html

http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/Products/?category=254

Rebecca Wood has several fun new canvases based on fairy tales in two different sizes...
http://www.rebeccawooddesigns.com/new-designs/new-2014

and so does Melissa Shirley who has the Three Bears, Three Little Pigs, Mother Goose, and Little Red Riding Hood designs...
http://melissashirleydesigns.com/galsearch/?searchstring=fairy+tales&searchlist=&Search=Search&dosearch=

...and so does Eye Candy with Ada's fun Cinderella, Rapunzel, and Snow White pieces...
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2012/06/to-market-to-market.html

http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2013/10/new-designs-for-fall-and-winter-2013.html

...as does Ruth who has quite a few larger pieces.
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/Products/?category=17

The ultimate fairy tale canvases are from Edie and Ginger, though.
http://rittenhouseneedlepoint.com/catalogsearch/result/index/?limit=200&q=edie&x=-1290&y=-125

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 25, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Brass Stiletto

Tanja Berlin's e-newsletter has a new product listed I've not seen before--a brass stiletto that can be used as a laying tool or awl.  It's  a pretty thing (although in CH brass tarnishes badly if not lacquered) and can also be used as a laying tool.  If you are interested, hurry.  Tanja will be away most of the month of June starting on the 5th.
http://www.berlinembroidery.com/whatsnew.htm#brass

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 1, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Amy Talks Books, Guides and More

Amy Bunger's shop newsletter for June and July 2014 is now up on her website.
http://www.amybunger.com/f/0614.pdf

Amy's gone nuts for three ring binders.  When you read her mini book reviews, you'll see why.  She also reveals that Sparky (the semi-metallic version of Silken Straw) will be available at the January 2015 trade show.  Silken Straw is a repackaged knitting yarn and so is the new Sparky.  If you have a big project and a very good knitting shop nearly (or a LOT of stitching friends you can share with), see if you can find Alchemy's yarns before Sparky debuts.

The newsletter also contains the whimsical backstory for several new Annie Lane canvases, courtesy of Cindy McKown, and a new stitch diagram, created by Amy just for us.  The newsletter has new stitch guides, too.

All in all, a fun way to spend Monday morning!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 1, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Russian Santas: Stitch Guide News!

Carolyn Taggart's Little Angel Santa

Fans of the Leigh Designs series of Russian Santas will be thrilled to hear more new stitch guides are available for these Christmasy Ivans.  Sandy Arthur's website now lists all the guides you can get directly from her:  The Birdland, Forever Green, Holly Hills, and Merry Mistletoe Santas.  Her website has some great photos of the finished models!
http://duodesignsinc.com/wpsite/stitch-guides-only

Vicky DeAngelis is working on her Holly Hills Santa.  She's been wrestling with just the right thread, but she's making progress despite being the busiest stitcher on the planet.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/what-i-learned-on-the-way-to-pull-threads/

http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/threads-threads-and-more-threads-2/

Carolyn Taggart has also been busy.  She just finished her version of the Little Angel Santa (seen above).  You can connect with Carolyn via her Facebook page to order.  If you aren't on Facebook, just send me an email at chilly hollow at hotmaildotcom and I'll pass your message along to Carolyn.

There's a Russian Santa for everyone, and guides for many of them.  Have fun choosing!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 28, 2014 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.