Color Assistance

Needlework Unlimited has posted on their blog about color and tools to help pick colors.
https://needleworkunlimited.wordpress.com/2016/02/08/color-color-color/

Very useful stuff!  Don't miss the links at the bottom of the article for further reading about color.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 9, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

An Overview of Frames

Needle in a Haystack covers the various types of frames for needlework that are available in this interesting blog posting.  Although the shop sells many types of frames, the owner usually stitches in hand without a frame so this is a generally unbiased report on what you can use.  It's also very interesting--I had no idea that there was a wooden "square round" hoop available!
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2016/01/picking-a-needlework-frame.html

The bottom of the article has recommendations as to what type of frame works for what type of project.  This should be very helpful for folks just starting to explore frames or who are venturing into a new type of handwork and want a frame recommendation.  Many thanks to Needle in a Haystack for such useful information!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 17, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

BREAKING NEWS: Kandace Merric Has Died UPDATED

Kandy's "Westie Angel"

The National Academy of Needle Artists just announced on Facebook that Kandace Merric died in her sleep last night. 
https://www.facebook.com/118153386709/photos/np.1456605363411317.1277706333/10153211746906710/?type=3&theater

Kandy's Dark Skies Over Desert

I am stunned and saddened by our loss.  Besides her amazing original needlepoint designs, Kandy was very active in dog rescue organizations (particularly for Westies) and sent me and many others a charming holiday e-card featuring her rescued dogs in costumes on every holiday.

Kandy's "Egypt Circle"

The photographs are just a few of my favorites from Kandy's amazing body of needlepoint, much of which in the last few years were original designs donated to various rescue organizations.

Kandy's "Rabbit Guardian Angel"

Have fun in heaven with all your dogs, Kandy!

UPDATE:  From Kandy's neighbor--

It is with deep regret and sadness that we announce the sudden and untimely passing of our good friend and neighbor Kandace Merric who passed away Friday night, February 26, 2016.

Arrangements have been made:  Hungerford & Clark Funeral Home, 110 Pine Street, Freeport, NY 

                                                 Wednesday March 2 from 2:00pm-4:00pm and 7:00pm-9:00pm

                                             

Funeral Mass:  Our Holy Redeemer Church, 37 South Ocean Avenue, Freeport, NY

                       Thursday March 3

In lieu of flowers her family has requested that a donation in her name can be made:

www.WestieMed.org

Facebook.com/WestieMed

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 27, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Monkey Stitches

I should have entitled this Blog article "Monkeyshines!" 
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/monkeys/

Hope you enjoy the fun monkey stitches.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 9, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

"iPhone Killed the Needlepoint Star"

I stumbled across this article about life in the 1970s as seen through a magazine slanted towards women. 
http://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2014/01/a-trove-of-history-as-1970s-housewives-lived-it/283307/

Sadly, the author is no more up to date on needlepoint than the style of sheets popular in the 1970s as he certainly doesn't understand how folks use their iPhones to check stitch diagrams, talk to other needlepointers on Facebook, or upload photos of their current project to their blog.  However, I like needlepoint's being the stealth hobby, something done on the sly and under the radar.

Enjoy the article!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 4, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Kreinik Colors -- New and Discontinued

Kreinik has just sent me their newest newsletter which covers their new and discontinued colors. I thought you'd like to see this so it is below. Enjoy!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 25, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Little Shoppe's Dimensional Needlepoint

Pocket Full of Stitches is having a Little Shoppe Canvas Company trunk show, and today's blog post from the shop shows several of their new canvases (bells, the crackers with candy, the twirling pumpkins) finished.  It's often not easy to understand how dimensional canvases are supposed to go together so I thought you'd like to see their latest design models.  It's quite fun!
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2016/02/little-shoppe-canvas-company-trunk-show_4.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 4, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Finished Edge (with Cross Stitches, Beads and Buttonhole Stitches)

Janet Granger is working a Carolyn Pearce set of embroidery smalls, i.e., stitched tools, that has been fun to watch grow.  Today's example has a very clever way to finish the edge of the current piece that I think has particular relevance to those who finish their own ornaments.  Wouldn't this make a clever edging?!
https://janetgranger.wordpress.com/2016/02/04/home-sweet-home-workbox-33-edging/

Penny, you were absolutely right--counted thread and embroidery folks have a lot to teach us needlepointers!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 4, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Sue Has An Aficot

Sue ordered a new aficot and shows it off on her website. Sounds like a disease, doesn't it?  But it isn't--it's a special sort of laying tool.
https://sudukc.wordpress.com/2016/02/04/1st-valentines-day-present/

If this intrigues you, follow the links to Mary Corbet's website for the history and use of aficots and then go to M&H Handcrafts to order your own.

I think the mesquite one is gorgeous!   Oh, don't miss looking at the laying tools.  I like the barley twist style, and the bone stiletto is just lovely....

Ten enabling points to Sue!

(By the way, Ridgewood has a silver mellore on sale at half price while we are looking at exotic tools that are used for laying threads.  Mellores are for gold work, by the way.)
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2016/02/birds-wreath-and-threads.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 4, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Getting to Know Ruth Schmuff

The newest Shining Needle Society class is going to be taught by Ruth Schmuff, so if you are interested in taking a cyberclass with Ruth, here's your chance.  Note that you have to be a Shining Needle Society member to participate but that's easy.  Just email Kate and she'll get you set up.  It doesn't cost anything but you will be exposed to Mucho Temptation!
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/46618682/SNS_Deco_Cat_2016.pdf

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/02/deco-cat-encore.html

Ruth's updated her profile on one of her websites and I thought you might find it very interesting to learn more about one of the most prominent needlepoint shop owners and teachers around.  Enjoy getting to know Ruth!
https://www.tistheseason.org/About-Us/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 22, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Columns, Diamonds and Cobblestones (Plus Hearts)

Want to have some fun with new stitches? First, visit Ruth Schmuff's newest newsletter to see what you can do with Diamond stitches in a background...
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/content/uploads/bedeckednewsFeb2016.pdf

...then have fun with Reverse Cobblestone at Sheena's blog.
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/happy-groundhog-day/

Needlepoint For Fun is celebrating the Valentine season with three sizes of heart stitches.
http://www.needlepoint-for-fun.com/three-ways-to-needlepoint-heart-patterns-as-darning-stitches.htm

Finally, finish off your day with fancy Columns over at Whimsical Stitch.
http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/2/3/supposedly-columns

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 2, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

BREAKING NEWS: Quail Run is Moving

Quail Run is getting ready to move the shop to new quarters!
https://www.facebook.com/QuailRunNeedlework/photos/np.1456149627691888.1277706333/1079673528749476/?type=3&theater

http://www.quailrunneedlework.com

The move will happen next weekend and the new location will open March 1, 2016.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 22, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A New Mystery from Chandail (And Zecca)

Chandail and Zecca are collaborating on a new mystery class called "The Enchanted Garden Mystery Project."  The six lessons are by Kathy Kulesza and Cindy Howland.  You can see the entire canvas and a peek at Lesson One on Chandail's website.
http://www.chandailneedlework.com/mystery-projects.htm

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 14, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Needlepoint Wreath UPDATED

Horse Country Chic loves Susan Robert's needlepoint wreaths. They are the essence of spring.
http://horsecountrychic.blogspot.com/2016/02/needlepoint-wreaths.html

Melissa Prince came out with a bunch of wonderful wreathes in January.
http://www.melissaprincedesigns.com/new-canvases.html

These join Melissa's Robin's Wreath which will be a Sandy Arthur mystery class in September 2016 for a full set of seasonal wreaths.
http://www.sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2015/12/online-mystery-class-schedule-2016-i.html

Any of these will make for a delightful stitch and an amazing display when finished.

UPDATE:  Horse Country Chic's wreath is back from the finisher!
http://horsecountrychic.blogspot.com/2016/03/woodland-needlepoint-wreath.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 2, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Strategies For Discontinued Threads

I'm not the world's most prolific stitch guide writer (that would be Robin King!) but even I with only a few guides written have had threads I used for models discontinued a month (or even a week) after I published a guide. It's happened to me three times if I remember correctly, and probably has happened more than that but I just don't know it yet.   I have to admit that no stitch guide writer will go back and rewrite a guide with updated threads.  The small amount we are paid for our hours of work doesn't cover our time spent on the original guide, much less a rewrite.  The best you can hope for is that the stitch guide writer or your local shop can recommend something else that will work.  Mary Waldsmith of Owl Stitchery has several great ideas on how to solve this common dilemma.
http://owlstitchery.blogspot.com/2016/01/when-threads-are-discontinued.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 1, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

An Antique "Tapisserie" Presentation Box From France

Thanks to the Embroiderers Guild of Canada, I discovered this antique needlepoint box from France. Dated to the late 1800s, it was intended as a gift for a new stitcher and includes wool skeins, a frame, patterns, spools of thread and tools.  The only item that is lacking is a pair of scissors.   I am not sure what the board below the frame is for, unless it is a table mount base for the frame itself.  There are two turned pegs on either side of the frame, so probably the frame slots into the pegs and the pegs fit into the base to create a table stand.  Other views of this treasure are available by clicking on the thumbnail photos to the right of the large picture or by running your cursor up the row of photographs.
http://www.rubylane.com/item/1125715-MPP1001/Marvellous-Antique-French-x92Tapisseriex92-Presentation

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 29, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Celebrating Charting Software with a Free Design

Ada Hayden of Eye Candy has made the transition to charting software (she uses Stitch Graph from Ursa Software) and is celebrating with a new Bargello ornament design.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2016/02/bonus-bargello-chart-available-for.html

Ada has four small Bargello ornaments that are being published in Needlepoint Now magazine this year.  This little bonus free chart is the fifth in the series.  Here is another version of it.  I think this looks like a tiny owl, don't you?
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2016/02/well-that-was-fast.html

By the way, here is Ursa Software's website.  If you are interested in any of their products, make sure you see what computers and operating systems they will run on before you buy.
http://www.ursasoftware.com/index.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 13,  2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Mystery of the Wild Salmon UPDATED

Ruth Schmuff has announced her Spring 2016 mystery class--"Wild Salmon," a painted canvas by the cross stitch and knotted miniature rug designer Teresa Layman. 
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/01/first-pretty-birds-and-then-pretty.html

The class is available in person or via mail starting in March and will have three lessons.   As Ruth works and posts progress reports on her blog, I'll update this article so you can see it all in one place.

UPDATE:  Lesson one has bubbles and borders.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/03/bubbles-and-borders.html

Lesson two has more borders and a fish.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/04/one-fish-two-fish.html

Lesson three is the last lesson and is all about silk ribbons!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/05/to-catch-fish.html

FINAL UPDATE:  It's framed!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2017/09/wild-and-wonderful-salmon.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 29, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

If You Are in Boston Tomorrow...

...you may want to drop in to see The Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston's Stitching + Sake event.  If you are a guild member, why not take some flyers with information about your next EGA or ANG meeting?  Some folks are going to be intrigued, after all.
https://www.icaboston.org/events/ica-after-5-stitching-sake

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 18, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Petei Show

Stephanie is treating us to a show of Petei characters, mostly Santas. Are they not FAB?!!
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2015/12/petei-extravaganza.html

If you are in love with these --and who isn't?!-- The French Knot in Texas has a huge array of the Santas, most with a stitch guide from Diana Bosworth.
http://www.thefrenchknot.com/x-petei.htm

Of course if you like doing your own thing, check with your favorite shop.  Most have a nice little stock of Petei characters.  Or you can browse Painted Pony's website (they distribute Petei) and choose the canvas or the set that amuses you most, then ask your shop to order for you.
http://www.petei.com/line_list/line_contents.htm

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 31, 2015 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Winter Sneak Peak

I just found a nice shot of the newest book from the Little Shoppe Canvas Company. It is entitled Winter and covers all sorts of snow and winter holiday stitches. This photo shows the cover and some of the stitch diagrams included.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj98NIiNyb5GVk8XYHnomSAYz7hkaK3VXODsvgGaFrC0vX-z4YOGX7crtCKqVyaoEUOnNhaLT0WOXR6MDp7ypR1cLFU7SMekK8MypGmtyOUzVP_9YtP2Amc5UICq50Ik4aM3bKMRg9slKn/s1600/winter.jpg

Landscapes and Ins and Outs are their other two books.  Note that the black and white and gray stitch diagrams are not numbered in any of the books.  I haven't seen Winter yet but I really like their first two books so I imagine I'll put this on my Birthday Wish List.
http://littleshoppecanvascompany.com/books

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 9, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Three Step Design Process

Want to watch an artist at work? Check out Kimberly's blog posting, which shows how a design has percolated through her amazing brain and appeared in three different iterations--a chart, a painted floor rug and finally a painted needlepoint canvas!  All the same and all different.
http://akimberlydesign.blogspot.com/2016/01/always-evolving.html

There's only one word for Kimberly--amazing!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 11, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Food For Thought When Transferring a Design

Rachel does a lot of embroidery that involves getting the design outline onto linen and fabrics.  She's written an interesting article on the various ways she's accomplished this with an emphasis on their pluses and minuses.  I've used the "light box" method she describes successfully on needlepoint canvas and I also baste lines on canvas occasionally, especially when I want to mark out background areas or borders.   I don't use a marking pen much as they are so inconsistent depending on the weather.  I've had marks never disappear and had them disappear overnight.
http://www.blog.virtuosewadventures.co.uk/wordpress/2016/02/16/transferring-designs/

All these things come into play when you are trying to transfer a design but remember, whichever way you decide to work, patience is your friend.  None of these techniques are fast.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 16, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Picking a Finisher

The Facebook page Diane's Stitchin in the Mitten has posted photo albums of finishing done by various folks some who will take finishing directly and some which you have to contact via a shop.  This is helpful so you can see if someone has experience in the type of finishing you want done. The first photo album is work by Angela Shaddon.
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=1623244944605504&id=1439608229635844

Here is finishing arranged by Barbara's Needlepoint.  The shop has great finishers on their staff.
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=1623521527911179&id=1439608229635844

These designs were finished by folks chosen by Bedecked and Beaddazzled in Baltimore.
https://www.facebook.com/1439608229635844/photos/pcb.1623883044541694/1623881041208561/?type=3&theater

These were finished at Chaparral and at Chapel Hill Needlepoint.
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=1624146631182002&id=1439608229635844

These were finished at Marlene's.
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=1624436884486310&id=1439608229635844

All of these were finished through shops--Needlepoint.com, Nimble Needle in Atlanta and Peacock Alley.
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=1625092711087394&id=1439608229635844

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 4, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Needlepoint Junction Moves

The local Hilton Head Island online newspaper just announced that Needlepoint Junction has moved to a new location--a larger space next door to the old location. 
http://www.islandpacket.com/news/business/article59873021.html

Too bad the shop is described as a "knitting shop," particularly given that the name of Needlepoint Junction is NEEDLEPOINT Junction.  Even the two photos of the new shop interior don't appear to show any knitting supplies.  Makes you wonder just how dumb reporters are these days.

I am sure the poor shop owner is hiding her head in shame.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 14, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Frame with Arm Rest

Here's something totally new in the world of frames--an arm rest! 
http://www.margaretlee.com.au/store/frames--accessories/supporting-frame-with-hand.html

The frame is from Margaret Lee Embroideries which is an Australian company specializing in Japanese and Chinese embroidery.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 24, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

BREAKING NEWS: Someone's Getting Married

Today is a special day because the very special and very talented designer SharonG (Sharon Garmize) is marrying her Rocky.  So now she is Mrs. Rocky Merwan--very cool!

We wish you both years of happiness together!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 11, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Message from a Friend

A friend posted this wonderful essay on coping with grief on her blog today.  She's a quilter --at least she was when I saw her often but who knows what antics retirees get up to in Florida?!-- but what she says is true for any art form, whether it is needlepoint, quilting, painting or any other creative endeavor.  
http://agingfemalebabyboomer.blogspot.com/2016/01/dreaming-and-unconscious-mind.html

I know from personal experience grief is best managed with needle in hand.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 25, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Profile of Diana Sagmoe, The Needlework Finisher

Diane mentioned this profile of Diana Sagmoe, The Needlework Finisher, on Christa Sagmoe's blog.  The article shows the various styles of stand ups that Diana finishes.  You can't send items directly to Diana, you have to work through Needlepoint.com, by the way.
http://theavidpen.com/2016/01/22/stand-ups-the-needlework-finisher/#more-7190

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 22, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Changing Colors

Ridgewood shows off a series of small canvases with different background colors.  It's amazing the difference color and a slightly different finishing style makes!
http://ridgewoodneedlepoint.blogspot.com/2016/01/throwback-thursday.html 

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 21, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Gay Ann Rogers Sale

Gay Ann Roger's sale of charts starts today, Feb. 11, at 8 a.m. Pacific Standard Time.
http://www.gayannrogers.com

If you love counted canvaswork or are a fan of delicate and feminine designs in general, you'll want to check out this opportunity to pick up some of Gay Ann's charts.  She only has sales 2-3 times a year and only a few kits are available at each sale and usually only for a week.  However, many sell out before the week is up....

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 9, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Read This Before Writing a News Article about Needlework

Franklin Habit just wrote an article full of sensible advice (that also happens to be funny as hell) for journalists writing news articles about needlework of all kinds.
http://blog.lionbrand.com/2016/01/06/franklin-habits-friendly-three-point-message-to-journalists-who-seek-to-write-about-knitting-and-crochet/

Thanks for the heads up, Donna!  I'm still giggling.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 7, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Thread Strategies

Jan switched colors on a Maggie canvas and came up with a plan to cope in case she ran out of thread. A Smart Cookie Award winner for sure!
https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/01/07/my-maggie-coffee-cup/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/01/08/maggie-coffee-cup-moving-along/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 7, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Go Red!

Quite a few shops are participating in the American Heart Association's Go Red With Thread fund raiser this month. Most of them are having events on Saturday, February 13, but Enriched Stitch had their event last weekend.  OOPS!  I promised Suzie to mention it, but life got in the way.  I've been exceptionally busy in the last two weeks with Real Life issues and I missed the date because I thought I had plenty of time.  However, Enriched Stitch's event doesn't officially end until Friday, February 12.  So you have a few more days and you can check with other shops in your area to see what they are planning.
http://astheneedleturns.com/go-red-with-thread-fundraiser/

Sorry, Suzie.  Life got away from me in the last two weeks.  Congratulations on the money you raised and I hope you and your fellow shop owners raise much more.  After all, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States.  We've lost too many stitchers before their time to this scourge.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 9, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Finding Time to Stitch

Gay Ann Rogers has some great ideas on carving stitching time out of our busy days.
http://gayannrogers.blogspot.com/2016/01/in-new-year-finding-stitching-time.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 7, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Magnets on the Table Please

Accoutrement Designs shows off some of their new magnets (love the monkey!) as napkin ring decorations.  Guess I'd better pull out my silver napkin rings and see if my collections of magnets will stick to them!
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/2016/02/new-year-new-idea-it-is-year-of-monkey.html

Happy Chinese New Year!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 8, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Harikuyo 2016

Sue Dulle reminds us that it is Karikuyo, the Japanese festival that honors needles that bring us so much pleasure in our lives.
https://sudukc.wordpress.com/2016/02/08/harikuyo-broken-needle-festival/

This year I will wrap my used needles in pretty wrapping paper, enclose the gift bundle in aluminum foil for protection and they will go in the trash as that's the safest way to send them to their just reward.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 8, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Border Help from Carole and Michael

I just got my hands on Desert Island Stitches, Volume Two:  Ideas for Creative Borders.  This is one of the two newest books from the creative minds of Michael Boren and Carole Lake. (The other is Twisty Stitches Vol. 1, but more about that later.)  I was lucky to get an early copy since my current piece, Leigh's "Miami Gold Digger" has an elaborate border for which I needed ideas.
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Grp505x.html

This is a little book, like all the Desert Island Stitches books.   The Desert Island Stitches series are meant to be portable idea machines, not encyclopedias of stitches.  It's spiral bound with a laminated front and back cover for durability.  Borders is eighty pages long, if you count the title page and the list of reference books for further reading at the end.  Twenty-three of those pages are diagrams of border stitches.  There are anywhere from three fat borders to ten skinny borders diagrammed in black, white and gray on each page.  Each chapter deals with a separate type of border and typical examples are also diagrammed in that section.

Folks who prefer their stitch diagrams numbered should note that Michael and Carole do not number the stitch path.  They want people to figure this out on their own, which reflects their backgrounds as needlepoint teachers and designers.  They know there are many ways to work a stitch, depending on how much thread you have and the look you want.

The bulk of the book is an explanation of the various types of borders (borders that run all around the perimeter without a break, borders with corners or center motifs, borders that have mitered corners, etc.,) and tips on how to count out and create such borders.  Chapter introductions to each type of border and the crucial Rules of Divisibility counting tips page are printed on pink paper to make them easy to find.  The Rules of Divisibility section was of the greatest help to me since counting is always a problem.  I was able to figure out with Carole's and Michael's help how to position the border I wanted to use (found on page 59) so that it counted out correctly.

Anyone who uses a lot of decorative borders, striped backgrounds or narrow bands on their needlepoint will want a copy of this book.  Anyone unable to count out borders successfully (like me) will find it a great help.  I highly recommend it to anyone who collects needlepoint books since there are not that many books about needlepoint borders widely available.  I didn't even know June McKnight or Jane Zimmerman had books on borders!  (See the reference book list for more.) This would be perfect for a local stitching chapter's lending library or for a shop's reference shelf.

Your local shop can order this from Rainbow Gallery, Michael and Carole's book distributor, or you can order it directly from the authors.
https://www.four51.com/UI/Customer.aspx?p=Catalog&CatID=PQ0DWi8Xy3jvBKPf-szSRzvwov3vUw-sktHeo6qVC7l4vuVvGFj5kuig-e-e&CatInteropID=994CA9D3-3E43-46A1-B308-D4B2A8F38D02&CEI=6815749b-863a-46e2-8447-9c4fe231f2f4

Miami Gold Digger has a Border!

By the way, here's my border underway.  There's more border to come, courtesy of Carole and Michael who took a lot of mystery out of creating decorative borders!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 7, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A Needlepoint Love Story, 2016 Entry UPDATED

Thistle Hill is holding its third annual needlepoint exhibit from February 24-38 in Fort Worth, Texas.   This show is called "A Needlepoint Love Story" and because it is the third annual exhibit, the organizers are calling this Chapter Three. This year the exhibit (which raises funds for Historic Fort Worth) will have three exclusive heart canvases that celebrate Thistle Hill.  The French Knot in Fort Worth did the stitch guides and will sell a limited number of the canvases during the show.  Fancy Stitches in Cleburne will also have some of the hearts available.  You can also pre-order the heart canvases although I am not sure where.  I am sure the two shops helping with this (links below) will be able to advise you.  Needlepoint This will have tickets to the exhibit and may be able to order hearts as well.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2016/01/a-needlepoint-love-story-chapter-three.html

http://www.fancystitches.com

http://www.thefrenchknot.com

http://www.needlepointthis.com

UPDATE:  Please read the comments below for exact information on where to buy the canvases, the threads and the stitch guide.  Thanks!
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2016/02/a-needlepoint-love-story-chapter-three.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 17, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Lorene Salt Needlearts

It's a good day for the counted canvaswork crowd--Lorene Salt has a website where you can buy her charts and drool over her teaching pieces!
http://lorenesaltneedlearts.com

This is for my counted friends.  Have fun exploring!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright February 5, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Star Wars Tapestry

I thought Star Wars fans would like a good look at this cross stitch version done in the style of the Bayeux Tapestry.  No matter what your passion, you can certainly stitch it somewhere somehow.  In a galaxy far, far away....
http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/shortcuts/gallery/2014/feb/21/the-star-wars-tapestry-in-pictures

Many thanks to the folks who posted about this on Facebook.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 21, 2015 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Helen Stevens' New Website

Helen M. Stevens has a new website!  DO NOT miss the videos or overlook her photo gallery as she is an amazing embroiderer and an interesting teacher.  I loved the spider video with its tips.  Even though Helen is working on a different fabric than needlepointers use, you can use her techniques just by switching to a sharp needle to make it easier to place that stitch (or spider's leg) just where you want it.
http://www.helenmstevens.info

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 2, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Threadaholic Alert!

Needle in a Haystack has added new colors for several threads to their fabulous online database of threads.  They have added the newest colors for Entice, Capri, Silk Lame Braid, Soie d'Alger and Straw Silk.
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2016/01/new-threads-for-2016.html

Here is the link to their website thread database.  Bookmark it because they have good color photos of most threads.  Ordering from them is a slow business (they only ship one day a week and it can take a while to get threads in) but their customer service is excellent and their stock outstanding.
http://www.needlestack.com/thread.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 14, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Whimsical Stitch Dances with Squares

Mary Legallet of Whimsical Stitch is doing something new on her blog--a month's worth of analysis of square stitches.   She starts off this week with variations of 4x4 squares--square stitches that cover four thread intersections high by four wide--and discusses various threads that will enhance each block of 4x4 patterns.  Mary posts on Wednesdays and occasional Sundays, so keep an eye out for more square stitches dancing around Mary's blog.
http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/1/6/silly-squares

Mary goes back to the basics with this exploration of square stitches that cover an area that is two threads wide and two high. There are a LOT of them and all are perfect for that very small space.
http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/1/10/it-takes-two

Mary's next exploration area is the much larger 5x5 square.
http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/1/13/the-true-inspiration

Then she moves to her personal favorite, the 6x6 square.
http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/1/20/devilish-squares

Then we go back to the small 3x3 squares. which are a lot more elaborate than you would think in a such a tiny space.
http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/1/24/3x3

The final dancing with squares is 9x9 combined with 3x3s.  It's a lot more interesting than boring plain 9s!
http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/1/27/nine-nirvana

Remember to follow the links to her Pinterest and Instagram pages to see the diagrams and stitched examples. Thanks for the fun tutorial on square stitches, Mary!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 6, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Stitcherie Viewer's Choice for 2015 UPDATED

Ruth Schmuff is once again posting the poll to vote for the Viewer's Choice winner of the 2015 Stitcherie Games. You can see the 21 entries at the link below and vote for your favorite.The poll closes on January 31 and the winner will be announced February 2.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/01/stitcherie-games-viewers-choice-2015_21.html

UPDATE:  We have a winner!  Congratulations, Janice.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/02/and-we-have-winner.html

But everyone who participated is a winner in my book.  Thank you all!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 21, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Rehoboth Beach Museum Exhibit Details UPDATED

Brenda posted a mention of this fun exhibit on her blog so you can remember to mark March 19-May 22 on your calendar.  That's how long the exhibit will be viewable at the Rehoboth Beach Museum in Delaware.  The deadline for sending an exhibit and all the other details are here--
http://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2016/01/rehoboth-beach-museum-6th-annual.html

UPDATE:
http://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2016/03/paging-for-judge-31616.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 14, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Red SOTM 2016 UPDATED

Melita and her local stitching guild are working the American Needlepoint Guild's 2016 Stitch of the Month (SOTM) project.  Melitia decided to do hers in shades of red instead of the original golden yellows.  She posted a list of her chosen red threads on her blog and showed the difference working the Amadeus stitch on alternate sides or one side at a time makes.  It's almost as much fun as being part of Melita's chapter to read her blog.
https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2016/01/28/ang-2016-stitch-of-the-month/

Brenda also has posted her list of threads for this project. She's going blue!
http://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/p/sotm-2016-thread-list.html

If you are not familiar with ANG's Stitch of the Month projects and stitch diagrams, here is the entire set since 1998 on their website.  It is a fabulous resource!
http://www.needlepoint.org/Stitch.php

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 29, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Drawer Storage for Needlepoint Supplies

Sheena's New Storage Unit from Ikea

Sheena of Sheena's Sweet Stitches saw a wonderful storage system at Ruth Schmuff's new quarters and immediately picked up a similar set for herself at her local Ikea.   It is called the Alex and comes in black, white and gray (although the online store only seems to have the gray and white.)  It is around 26 inches high and wide and almost 19 inches deep.
http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50264927/

Sheena says these are made of particle board and are well made.  They have to be assembled but she says the instructions are good.  She sent me a photo of her set assembled but it isn't yet in place in the closet she uses for needlepoint storage.

Ikea has a huge variety of these drawer units.  They are a very good storage option if you have the space for one of the sizes Ikea carries.
http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/categories/departments/workspaces/10711/

 Thanks very much for sharing, Sheena!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright January 13, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.