Cotton Drawstring Project Storage Bags.

Trish Burr has designed cotton project bags that might be very useful for smaller needlepoint designs. They are large enough to hold a 10 inch diameter hoop, so any 8x8 (or maybe even a 9x9) canvas on stretcher bars should be able to fit inside the drawstring opening.
https://trishburr.com/2016/06/03/cotton-project-bags/

You can purchase these from Trish's Etsy store.  Trish is in South Africa but she will ship anywhere if you are patient.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/398657725/cotton-project-bag?ref=shop_home_active_1

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 3, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Rittenhouse Tour

Do you love shop tours like I do? Then you will adore visiting Rittenhouse in Philadelphia with Sheena.
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/rittenhouse-needlepoint/

Of course if Philly isn't on your travel itinerary this year, you can visit the shop website.  Have fun exploring!
https://rittenhouseneedlepoint.com/home

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

The Bargello Stocking UPDATED

Liz Morrow of LizArt has designed and is starting to work a Bargello Christmas stocking. This red and green and gold and white beauty is being blog-stitched here.
http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2016/06/christmas-stocking.html

http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2016/06/christmas-stocking-finished.html

Fans of counted canvaswork and Bargello will be thrilled Liz plans to sell the chart.  Yes, please do stitch faster, Liz!

UPDATE:  Liz says she is working on the instructions and hopes to have them ready in July.

UPDATE #2:  They are ready!
http://lizartblog.blogspot.com/2016/07/bargello-christmas-stocking-published.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 3, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Stitching "In the Well"

Ever hear someone mention they like to "stitch in the well?" Did you wonder what they were talking about?    Mary Agnes shows off her current project,  which is mounted on stretcher bars so that she is stitching "in the well."
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2016/05/be-merry-2.html

Some folks like stitching with their stretcher bars on top instead of behind their canvas.  This is called stitching in the well.  They say it keeps their work cleaner because it is harder to touch the canvas accidentally as they work and makes tying off on the back easier.  Personally, I think it is a matter of personal preference although if you are traveling, it makes great sense to mount your canvas this way before you pack it in your suitcase.  It protects your stitching from being rubbed by other things you've packed, especially if you put a piece of foam core or bubble wrap on the front of your canvas as further padding.

I've tried stitching with my stretcher bars on the front, and I can't see that it makes things cleaner or easier for me--but for you it might make a world of difference.  You won't know until you try.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 12, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Gilmore Girls Buy Needlepoint

Thanks to Lycelle Designs posting this snippet from the television show "Gilmore Girls," we know what the characters think about cursing in needlepoint.  Thanks, Jessica!
https://www.facebook.com/lycettedesigns/videos/287732211558955/?fref=nf

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

A Plea for Checks and Cash When Shopping

Needle Nicely lays out the case for helping your favorite shop by buying with checks or cash instead of plastic.   Mary Agnes doesn't mention another benefit--not having to worry about your credit card numbers floating around a small business without the resources to put effective security procedures in place.
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2016/06/can-we-talk-credit-card-and-debit-cards.html

I guess I won't feel like such a weirdo paying cash for my mail order needlepoint purchases any more!

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

Katie's Rugs

The Needlepointer is having a truck show from Shorebird Studio, so their latest e-newsletter shows off some of Katie Molineux's rugs. They are amazing and not on her website, so I thought you'd like a little art show this morning. Enjoy!
http://us1.campaign-archive2.com/?u=2b1a4dafdf1ba6e29e773aa79&id=bcae16e4cc&e=73961ee0ea

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

The Anatolian Rug UPDATED

Jan at Thread Medley is starting another original rug design! This one is called The Anatolian Rug as it uses rug motifs common to the area.   Here is her introduction to threads and center medallion.  I'll update this article as she posts progress photographs.  I love the colors on this and the variegated red background is just lovely.
https://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2016/06/01/introducing-the-anatolian-rug/

UPDATES:
https://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2016/06/25/anatolia-rug-progress-1/

https://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2016/07/10/anatolia-rug-progress-2/

https://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2016/08/06/anatolia-rug-progress-3/

https://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2016/08/26/anatolia-rug-progress-4/

https://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2016/09/13/anatolia-rug-progress-5/

https://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2016/10/05/anatolia-rug-progress-6/

https://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2016/11/13/anatolia-rug-progress-7/

https://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2016/12/31/anatolia-rug-progress-8/

https://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2017/01/26/anatolia-rug-progress-9/

https://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2017/02/15/anatolia-rug-finale/

I have to say I love the variegated red background on this!

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

Threadaholic Alert! Au Ver A Soie 100/3

If you are a fan of Gay Ann Roger's counted canvaswork, you'll know she uses Au Ver A Soie's 100/3 silk perle* a lot.   You can read a bit about how she finds it useful on her website.
http://www.gayannrogers.com/3-1003.html

Then you can go shopping!  Have fun.  (By the way, I also shop at Needle in a Haystack a lot but if what you want isn't in stock, you'll have to wait a bit as they only ship once a week.)
http://www.needlestack.com/WebStore/Thread/AVAS_Soie100.html

For more of Gay Ann's lessons about threads, use the Next Button to read about other thread types.

*Vicky left a comment saying that 100/3 silk isn't a perle.  It is a tightly twisted strand, which is how I define a perle type thread.  But I imagine some folks think of perle threads as multiple strands twisted together.  Anyway, you can see  more photos of the thread here and decide for yourself what to call it.
http://www.hedgehoghandworks.com/catalog/FBR1003.php

http://www.alisoncoleembroidery.com.au/kits-and-supplies/other-threads/au-ver-a-soie-100-3

http://www.silk-thread.com/our-silk-threads

 Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 30, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Threadaholic Alert! Silk Trame Sighted

Threadaholic Alert! Needle in a Haystack has the new Silk Trame silk from Thistle Threads in stock.  Click on the second link to see all the colors available.
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2016/05/new-silk-trame-thread-in-stock.html

http://www.needlestack.com/WebStore/Thread/AVAS_SilkTrame.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 30, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A Re-Purposed Candy Dish

A quilt shop posted a photo of their reuse of a candy dish as tool and ort holder on Facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/stitchinheavenquiltshop/photos/a.89308598689.103148.73246688689/10154300723698690/?type=3&theater

If you can't see the above, I found a similar but larger version on Etsy.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/262190290/vintage-red-pedestal-bowl-red-candy-dish?ref=market

Look for loops on the edge where you can insert scissors and laying tools, etc.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/262208462/sale-vintage-lacy-scalloped-edge-milk?ref=market

https://www.etsy.com/listing/207918183/heritage-carnival-glass-iridescent?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=vintage&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=scallop%20edge%20candy%20dish&ref=sr_gallery_16

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

Breaking News: Needle in A Haystack Needs New Owner UPDATE

Thanks to Pat's sharp eyes, I have discovered that the owner of Needle in a Haystack in Montrose, California wants to sell her shop and retire. You can read a bit about Jody and her shop here.
http://www.latimes.com/socal/glendale-news-press/news/tn-gnp-me-needle-20160617-story.html

The shop website is here.  It's a charmer, with a wide range of canvases for sale.  I do so hope the shop finds a special fourth owner!
http://www.needhay.com

UPDATE:  Remember, there are plenty of shops with the same name.  The shop that is closing is in Montrose, CA.
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2016/06/montrose-niah-closing-this-fall.html

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

Threadaholic Alert: Artfabrik Threads

Mary Corbet has done it again--she is tempting us with photos and links to a line of overdyed perle cotton threads from Artfabrik. These come in sizes 3, 5, 8 and 12, which means you can use this on any size needlepoint canvas or mix thread sizes for a special effect (light coverage in the background, normal coverage for a focal point, etc.).
http://www.needlenthread.com/2016/05/thread-talk-get-your-southwest-color-fix.html

Scroll down to see the colors.  No drooling on your keyboard!

Five enabling points to Mary....

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 26, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A New Tool

Come to the Point's latest e-newsletter shows off a new tool I'd not seen before.   It is an extendable magnet arm with a light on the end, very useful for picking up small items from the floor, particularly if you have a carpet or linoleum with a busy pattern that makes anything you drop disappear immediately!
http://us5.campaign-archive2.com/?u=2478d714f92f36be772d8e8d4&id=4df0ff5250&e=44c597fc71

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

Picking a Beginner Canvas

Jinny explains her rules for picking a beginner canvas.  If you plan to teach someone to stitch this summer, you might be interested in her ideas.
http://stitchstyleblog.com/2016/05/5-tips-picking-first-needlepoint-canvas/

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

Favorites from TNNA's June 2016 Show

Otto Agular's "3 Ladies with Wildflowers"

Once again I've collected my personal favorites from the June 2016 TNNA show. There are a range of designs, some from new designers, some from well-known names. But all of them caught my eye for one reason or another.  

Above is a new Otto Agular from Purple Palm Designs.  This is called "Three Ladies with Wildflowers."  I think it is a lovely mix of colors and shapes.  Easy to stitch?  Probably not but I adore the facial expressions.  You can make up endless stories about what these three are thinking and feeling.
https://www.facebook.com/PurplePalmDesigns/photos/a.800127770017208.1073741834.796107397085912/1245499032146744/?type=3&theater

Barbar Tourtilloutte/HSN Designs

Hingham Square Needlepoint is developing a line of canvases under the HSN Designs name.  My favorite so far  is this adaptation of Barbara Tourtilloutte's artwork.  I call him Moose-y Christmas in my own mind.  The framework of the beech trees and the top and bottom borders are wonderful as is the sweet subject matter.
http://www.hinghamsquareneedlepoint.com/barbara-tourtillotte

dede's Celestial Wizard

Fleur de Paris posted the front and back of dede Odgen's "Celestial Wizard" on Facebook.  Definitely my favorite double-sided canvas!  Ok, so it's the only double-sided canvas I noticed that's new but I do like the wizard and his companion owl a lot.
https://www.facebook.com/FleurDeParis/photos/pcb.1046532755400341/1046528492067434/?type=3&theater

Colors of Praise

Another favorite is this new Colors of Praise canvas of a sunbather and a turtle. How wonderful is that?!  I love stitching people and love the tropical feel of this encounter of two sunbathers.
https://www.facebook.com/BeStitchedNeedlepoint/photos/a.152368144832122.34517.126229327446004/1007095216026073/?type=3&theater

Sascalia's "Snowy Foxes"

I also adore this "Snowy Foxes" canvas from Sascalia which has a light feel, much different than the usual snowy scenes.  The pastel colors and the fresh greens and golds make this a late spring snowstorm kind of piece, which is very unusual.  I like unusual!  The artwork is distributed by Golden Needlepoint.
http://goldenneedlepoint.com/t/sascalia

Mary Lake-Thompson's Nutcracker Ornament

I don't usually like nutcracker pieces as I find those teeth creepy, but I really like Mary Lake-Thompson's new nutcracker ornament.   I like the rounded shapes and the expression on his little face.  This is part of a series of small ornaments that would make a spectacular display.
http://melissashirleydesigns.com/gallery/?index=8435&cat=70

Cleo'a Mummy is 31 inches tall!

I'm always a sucker for canvases with themes taken from Ancient Egypt.  This tall beauty is from Labors of Love and would be great fun to stitch.  I'd buy a ornament of just her head, not having a place for such a large piece here.  (hint hint)
http://www.laborsofloveneedlepoint.com/see-whats-new.html

Squid and Whale (Charley Harper)

I am not really a fan of Charley Harper designs, although they are extremely well done and often quite funny, but this fight between a squid and a whale caught my eye, probably because I am a big fan of squid, octopi and cuttlefish.
https://www.facebook.com/175899759125776/photos/pcb.1003726636343080/1003726323009778/?type=3&theater

And there you have it--the new canvases I would buy if I had endless funds and endless time to stitch them.  Which one do you think I actually bought?

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

Speaking of Tips...

Speaking of tips, the Spinster Stitcher shows how you lock silk ribbon in the needle so it doesn't slip out of the eye.  
http://spinsterstitcher.blogspot.com/2016/05/inquiring-minds-want-to-know.html

Thanks, Coni!

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

Interesting DIY Framing Tip

The Unbroken Thread has a fantastic do -t-yourself framing tip!  That Ikea frame looks like a good purchase, too.
http://www.theunbrokenthread.com/blog/2016/05/20/water-canvaswork-finally-framed/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 20, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Winter: A Book Review UPDATED

Recently I got my hands on the latest book from Stacey Tombros of Little Shoppe Canvas Company.  The book is called Stitch Winter.    As you see in the photo above, it's the same small size as Stacey's popular Stitch Landscape and her Ins and Outs.   The inside is much different, though. Instead of stitches to use here and there on select areas of painted canvases, which is what Landscape and Ins and Outs are about,  Winter contains motifs to use as backgrounds or to use to create a counted canvaswork pillow or ornaments for the winter holidays.

The motifs that are included are angels, bells, bows, candy canes, holly, menorahs, stars of David, hamsa hands, dreidels, holiday lights, ornaments, presents, Santa hats, snowflakes and Christmas evergreen trees.  The book opens with an explanation of the multi-step diagrams (all in black and white and shades of gray), thread choice ideas, and embellishment recommendations.

The book is 107 pages, usually with two diagrams per page--front and back--except for the larger, more complicated motifs.  There is also an introduction and table of contents (but no index).  It is spiral bound, and the front and back cover are cardboard with a slick finish for durability.

The format is the same for all but one section.  You are introduced to one-three main stitch diagrams for each shape.  (In many of the sections the numbering for a stitch motif is only done for these introductory diagrams.)   Ways to vary each main diagram are mentioned, i.e., substitute bugle beads for the center of a bow, use a cross stitch instead of a tent stitch, etc.   Then before variations on the main diagrams are shown, you are given some thread and color ideas for some of the variations.  The variations on the main diagrams usually show the stitch in straight rows, then in a zigzag  or offset line, then the motifs used among various trellis or diagonal patterns.

However, the snowflake section is a little different as there are no main diagrams here, the snowflakes being so complex.  There are just twelve lovely snowflake patterns, with the usual thread and color ideas plus variation tips included as in all the other sections.

I think the earlier books are more useful for painted canvases while Winter is more focused on the counted stitcher who wants a large background pattern, help coming up with a counted pattern for a holiday design (pillows, ornaments, borders) by combining various elements, or beautiful designs to copy as all over patterns or use as borders for a holiday piece. I think the trellis patterns used with the motifs are lovely myself, and plan to try some of them out on several larger backgrounds of my painted canvases without the holiday motifs to make them less seasonal as I don't do a lot of holiday stitching myself.

I think Winter is a great little book, but it isn't what you expect based on Landscape or Ins and Outs.  It is the perfect gift for the stitcher who does mostly counted pieces and holiday designs.  There is a lot of information inside but you'll need to use your imagination to make the best use of this inspirational little book.

By coincidence, BeStitched just posted a video review of Winter by Paula Schmidt on their blog.  Here it is for your further information.
https://www.bestitchedneedlepointshop.com/6131/stitch-winter/

UPDATE:  The newest newsletter from The Needle House features a stitch from Winter at the very bottom.   The photo shows how the stitch variations are diagrammed.  I thought you might like to see.
http://www.theneedlehouse.com/newsletter/Summer_2016_Web.pdf

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

More Video Instruction on the Way

Virginia Barney, in conjunction with Needlepoint.com, is starting to add video instruction to various kits and stitch guides.  Jinny's Beard Class is just one of the first kits with guide to offer this.
http://stitchstyleblog.com/2016/05/santa-beard/

Needlepoint.com apparently also has video instruction with their "Sights and Scenes of London" kit.
http://stitchstyleblog.com/2016/05/santa-beard/

I haven't taken any of the new video classes but I know this will be particularly useful to those who learn best from seeing a stitch demonstrated--and this will be accessed from the comforts of your favorite stitching nest!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 19, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Exploring Surf and Sand with the Experts UPDATED

Seeing Stars Santa (Jane Wood)

This spring I've been busy stitching a Santa from Leigh Designs' Seashore Santa series. I'm not the only one--guides for this set are also available from Sandy Arthur, Pat Miller, Sharon Quick and Carolyn Taggart. All are superb stitchers with their own distinct style so I found it fascinating to see how we all choose to add sand and surf to the blank backgrounds behind these Santas.  This may be because Leigh Designs wanted these all to be made up as stand ups with an oval top to serve as models for trade and trunk shows.  So we all started out with a very similar background shape and size that we had to cover.  I want to talk a bit about the design decisions everyone made.  First, look at the entire unstitched series.  These are all on 18 count "sandstone" canvas, which is an ecru with a yellow cast.
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Grp835x.html

Now look at the photo above.  That's my Seeing Stars Santa.  I decided I wanted sand and ocean in the background because my Santa is a beachcomber, wandering the edge of the surf looking for washed up starfish and pearls.  I offset my Santa to the right so that I could add encroaching waves to the right corner.

It isn't obvious from the photo of the full Seeing Stars, but I used the same stitch, a wavy Bargello, for the entire background.  All I did when I got to the edge of the water is switch colors of silk floss and add pearls, clear beads and Swarkovski crystals to the join to indicate foam and washed up pearls.  The sand is Gloriana's "Honey Bronze 107."  The waves are Classic Colorworks' (formerly Crescent Colours)  Belle Soie "Babbling Brook CCS-027."  I should credit the idea for this to Brenda Hart who came up with something similar for a Melissa Shirley Beach Birdhouses canvas for a Bedecked and Beaddazzled embellishment class.  Here is Brenda's version.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/02/beachy-birds.html

Coral Reef Santa (Pat Miller)

Now let's look at Pat Miller's Coral Reef Santa.  Pat didn't add water to her background but the addition of little shaped beads gives me the impression of foam on wet sand around her Santa's feet.  She used a darning stitch background and an open stitch for the mound of wet sand.  Her Santa is centered.  Love those French knot corals, by the way!
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Mdl8353.html

Catch of the Day Santa (Sandy Arthur)

Next up on the page is Sandy Arthur's Catch of the Day Santa.  Sandy's Santa is centered on the background with his back to the ocean.  She also used an open darning stitch but it creates the sand while the wavy stitch at the top creates a choppy ocean.   While you are looking, check out the mermaid's hair--genius!
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Mdl8354.html

Globe Trotting Santa (Carolyn Taggart)

Carolyn Taggert's Globe Trotting Santa is next.   Her Santa also faces the ocean and is centered on the background.  The sand behind Santa is a  Bargello stitch (which I used) but the water is a random long stitch in an overdyed thread.  Carolyn added movement to the water by staggering the join between sand and surf.  Because both her sand and water stitches are horizontal ones, the join where the two meet is smooth.   By the way, I think the shells, coral and globe Carolyn created in Santa's arms are superb.
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Mdl8355.html

Treasure Island Santa (Sharon Quick)

The final stitch guide in the set is for Sharon Quick's Treasure Island Santa.  Sharon also used a wavy Bargello stitch on the background and her Santa also has his back to the water.  The wave in the stitch creates wavy water.  Her sand is quite unusual. It is a mounded shape like most of the other piles of sand but the mix of an overdyed thread (I think) with an open Staggered Cross (I think) creates a lot of movement in the sand.
http://www.leighdesigns.com/Mdl8357.html

To sum up, use a wavy stitch of some kind for water, overdyes make both great sand and surf, you can go with either an open stitch or a full coverage stitch for water and sand in backgrounds, create movement by staggering the margin between water and land in some way, and don't be afraid to toss beads and other embellishments around.

Many thanks to my fellow model stitchers for the master class in stitching surf and sand!

And now a word from our sponsor--all the stitch guides and canvases above are available for your favorite shop to order from Leigh Designs.

All the Seashore Santa Models (Sandy Arthur's tag is cut off but hers is the left hand Santa.)

UPDATE:  Thanks to Don Lynch of Associated Talents I have all of the Seashore Santa models from Leigh Designs' booth to show you.  Enjoy!


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

Breaking News: Rishfeld Designs Now Available Via Gone Stitchin'

Gone Stitchin' just announced on Facebook that they now distribute Rishfeld Designs. Hurrah!
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10208975353157098&set=a.10201009913266079.1073741825.1114561635&type=3&theater

http://www.gonestitching.net/new/

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

Dating a Berlin Woolwork Sampler

Hands Across the Sea Samplers has a short but interesting article on dating Berlin Woolwork samplers on their blog.  Unfortunately, Berlin woodwork that covers the entire surface can't be dated by looking at the underlying canvas unless you can see the back side, but it's still an interesting article about Berlin woodwork from a sampler collector's perspective.  Using the common motifs that they outlined will help you at least put an estimate of the date your find was worked, assuming it is a British piece or perhaps American.
https://hands-across-the-sea-samplers.com/dating-berlin-wool-work/

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

BREAKING NEWS: Barbara Russell Has Died UPDATED

Holley Russell just posted this on Facebook and I am reporting it in full for those who don't have Facebook accounts.

"A message from Holley and David Russell, children of Barbara Russell.

Yesterday (June 11) we lost a pillar of the needlepoint arts, a creative artist of extraordinary vision, a successful entrepreneur, a friend to many, and our mother.

After teaching her children to stitch at a young age, her artistic sense drove her to establish a nearly 50-year love affair with needlepoint, a way to share her vision and designs while allowing everyone to discover their own creative expression by threading yarn through canvas.

Based in Philadelphia, in 1969 she opened Barbara Russell Designs, a retail store that became a Chestnut Hill fixture and evolved into a wholesale supplier of unique and preeminent needlework designs. She was known as “The Dog Lady of Needlepoint” due to her 140+ various dog designs.

Holley and David want to thank all of you in her beloved industry for the friendship, camaraderie and community that stimulated Barbara Russell Designs to grow and thrive. For the time being, her children will continue on with her business.

When you get a chance, please raise a glass of red wine in her honor to toast your favorite joyous memory of Barbara."

UPDATE:  Holley added, "A celebration of Barbara Russell's life will be held 1PM Saturday June 18 at Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, 8000 St. Martins Lane, Chestnut Hill / Philadelphia. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center."

I am so sorry!  Those who are not familiar with Barbara's work can browse her website and be amazed and enchanted by her work.  However, the rumor mill says her family is not continuing her designs or answering emails or calls about her work.
http://barbararusselldesigns.com 

UPDATE #2:  Silverfox has supplied a link to Barbara's obituary, which talks about her amazing life.
http://www.craftfuneralhomes.com/events/event/barbara-l-russell-memorial-service/

UPDATE #3:  Here's a little retrospective of Barbara's work from the perspective of a shop owner.
http://nimbleneedlenj.com/barbara-russell/

UPDATE #4:  Dianne posted photographs of a set of six custom chair seats designed by Barbara and stitched by Dianne and her mother on Facebook.  They are amazing!
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10208758297373866&set=pcb.1079541848789639&type=3&theater

UPDATE #5:  Someone posted to Facebook's Needlepoint Nation that Anne Roha of Victori-Anne is able to get some of Barbara Russell's work if the design is already painted.  The family is trying to sell her design line apparently.  You can email the family directly at balivengood@msn.com to try and buy something you want, too.  This was posted by some of Barbara's family so I hope it is accurate.  Here is the Victori-Anne's Treasures Facebook page and eBay store.  The shop doesn't have a website.
https://www.facebook.com/VictoriAnnesTreasures

http://stores.ebay.com/Victori-Annes-Treasures


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 12, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Needle Painting Book: With Information and Problem Solutions

Although Trish Burr's newest book covers both whitework and needle painting, it is a handbook with lots of information on needle painting and tips to solve needle painting problems that I thought you'd like to know about it.  It's travel-sized, not an encyclopedia, but as Trish is a master of needle painting, this might be something you'd like to indulge in.
https://trishburr.com/2016/05/17/new-kits-3/

If you really want in-depth instruction, Trish's DVD might be more useful.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/111760369/dvd-the-long-the-short-of-it?ref=shop_home_active_1

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

Sheena's Favorites

Sheena shows off her favorite new canvases from the June show.
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/cest-fini/

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

Zombies and Copyright

Now that I have your attention, please read this article about copyright myths that, like zombies, refuse to die.  Unlike many articles I've seen, this one is written by a lawyer specializing in intellectual property protection so if this guy says a common misconception about copyright can get you sued, it really might.
http://www.thebloglawyer.com/zombies

Here is a follow-up article that covers the basics of copyright law.
http://www.thebloglawyer.com/copyright-101

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

Annie Helmericks-Louder, Artist

Annie Helmericks-Louder just posted three photos of her newest original needlepoint (this one is all in Waverly Wool) on Facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/Annie-Helmericks-Louder-Artist-1024479044262342/

You can see more of her "needlepoint paintings" on her website.
http://www.helmericks.com/needlepoint-paintings.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 15, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Winter: A Mini Review

The latest book from the Little Shoppe Canvas Company is called Winter.     I have a copy but haven't had time to read it yet as we are about to have house guests for an extended stay.   Until I do, you can read a mini review from Tisha of Needlepoint Tool Time and get a peek inside the cover at two pages of stitch diagrams.  And if you decide you want this book, Tisha's price is very good.
http://www.needlepointtooltime.com/product/BOOK%203

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

Egyptian Cat's Nose -- At Last!

The Latest Version of Catra's Nose

I have been really busy with Real Life chores so I haven't made a lot of progress on Catra, my Egyptian cat project from Tapestry Fair. But she does have a nose!   It is satin stitches using orange Entice, which is a little darker and a little less shiny than the Shimmer Blend ribbon floss that was the best candidate when I last showed the design.  (You can see the threads I tried on the nose in the links below.)
https://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2016/06/cats-eyes-and-noses.html

https://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2016/06/more-about-egyptian-cats-nose.html

As you can see, working the cat's jewelry helped me see whether something orange and shiny would work on the cat.  The nose, although a focal point, is toned down a lot by the finished earring and the winged scarab headdress.  I'm working on the gold of the collar now.  Don't expect progress for a couple of weeks as I am too busy to stitch much at night right now.

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

Needlepoint From Tory Burch

If you are a fan of the designer Tory Burch, you'll want to look at her needlepoint pillows. They are expensive and nothing special to us needlepointers, but it is interesting that a designer with a big following offers them.
https://www.toryburch.com/home/decor-accessories/decorative-pillows/?utm_medium=aff&utm_source=cj&utm_content=4441350

Vogue online also has a brief mention of needlepoint, but the last photo in their slide show is a machine made needlepoint rug, not the real thing.
http://www.vogue.com/13437143/how-to-steal-your-grandmas-style/

A lot of folks are noticing needlepoint but as a mass market craft, it's not taken off, unlike knitting.  Probably because it is expensive.  What do you think?

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

How Do You Store Your Finished Needlepoint?

Katherine poses the question and shows off her storage.
http://bootsandbeads.blogspot.com/2016/05/how-do-you-store-your-needle-treasures.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 12, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Helpful Finishing Hints

Today I ran across three helpful finishing hints online.   3 Kittens in Minnesota posted about using mini socks as silverwear holders for holiday parties in their latest shop newsletter.
http://myemail.constantcontact.com/3-Kittens-News--Ooh--ooh--ooh--A-brand-new-free-perk-for-you-.html?soid=1102000932167&aid=1dlkMAeWdRQ

Carolyn's student at Chaparrel decided to stack mother-of-pearl buttons in her corners so she wouldn't have to compensate them.  Genius!
https://www.facebook.com/nestndlpt/photos/a.141837499194211.26316.141607859217175/1162758773768740/?type=3&theater

Barbara posted photos of the backs of her pillows on Facebook.  She's doing a series of fun Annie Lane canvases and put their titles on the back side.  Use the right arrow to see the other pillow back.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10153499585627233&set=pcb.1053725948037896&type=3&theater

Not familiar with Annie Lane canvases?  You can see the funny titles here.
http://www.wellesleyneedlepoint.com/AnnieLaneDesigns.shtml

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 12, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Fish Leather, Pliers And More

The June 2016 newsletter from Amy's Golden Strand is out and once again it is fabulous! Want a good water stitch? Amy diagrammed one for you.  Would you like to know how to remove one bead that is in the wrong place or is the wrong color?  Amy tells you now.  Want to learn all about fish leather and how to use it?  Amy's got you covered!  Need a new magnet (White House, wool felted animal, shark, Americana, or Elvis)?  Amy probably has it in stock or can get it for you.  Just want to look at eye candy or see what new stitch guides Amy has available?  This is the newsletter for you!
http://www.amybunger.com/f/0616.pdf

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

Sky Stitches

If you don't happen to own a copy of the Stitch Landscape book and you need sky stitches, check this month's postings by Mary Legallet on her Whimsical Stitch blog. She is posting about her favorite sky stitches. 
http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/5/1/sweet-sky

http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/5/4/big-blue-skies

http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/5/11/starry-starry-night

http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/5/15/small-skies

http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/5/18/more-open-skies

http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/5/25/beetlestitch

http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/5/29/small-skies-part-2


Here is the Landscape book.  The others in the series are Ins and Outs and the brand new Winter.
http://www.amybunger.com/catalog/item/8549797/10206091.htm

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

BREAKING NEWS: IStitches Vol. Four is Now an App UPDATED

Ruth Schmuff's newest book--iStitches Volume Four--is now available as an app in the iTunes store. Details on the book and the previous three volumes (also available as Apple apps) are here.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/06/apps.html

Sorry, Android users. This only works on Apple iPhones and iPads.

UPDATE:  If you are getting the "not available" error messages when you try to download Vol. Four, wait a day and try again. I suspect too many people are trying to download this at once.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright  June 3, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

More About the Egyptian Cat's Nose

The Original Canvas, Unstitched

Yesterday Donna wrote:

The Egyptian cat...that you blogged about...black cats have black noses, that may be why none of the rose/coral colors look right. Do you ever make a color change when you do these stitch guides? If the cat is "painted" or "enamel" wouldn't the entire canvas have the same sheen? you would have only shadows to create dimension....

Before I answer Donna's question I want everyone to look at the unstitched version of the design from Tapestry Fair above.  Colors show up differently on computer monitors so I pulled out my DMC color card.  The nose is closest to DMC# 3341 in color with some darker #3340 shading at the bottom and outside edges of the nose.  The nose color is similar to the medium peachy-orange shade around the sides of the cat's face at the edges of the light orange square in the center of the canvas.

To answer Donna's question, yes, I do change colors occasionally when working a canvas. Normally I change a shade because the color painted isn't available in the threads I have in my stash.   On this canvas, the blue "eye liner" color is different in shade than the blue Splendor I am stitching it with, for example.  I usually rummage in my stash to choose colors of thread as there are no stitching shops near by.  I have been known to change colors as well, but usually it's because the thread type I want to use doesn't come in that color.  For me, texture trumps exact color matches and I use what threads I have at hand when I can.

Why did Tapestry Fair choose a different nose color than a traditional black?  I suspect because the cat has a black face.  A black nose next to black fur and black nostril holes is going to disappear into the design.  I can't think of any way to stitch a black nose that would make it visible, particularly in photographs. 

Shine?  Bling? Where?!

Cameras cannot see the shine of metallics or silks, and they are blind to the charms of beads and the glitter of sequins or the shadows these things throw.   When one stitches models and does stitch guides of them, you learn to accept that only the few shop owners who go to trade shows will ever see the full charm of a model one has stitched that incorporate sparkly items.   The photographs posted online will not capture the full impact of a design that uses any of these type things.  Above is Exhibit A--Leigh Designs' "Miami Gold Digger" in the best close up photo I could get.  You cannot see the metallic trim on her jacket, the shine of the beads on the flamingos purse, the silk sheen of the little dog or the sparkles in her jewelry.  Trust me, they are there, but neither my camera or my scanner can see them, even with sunlight bouncing off the beads and silks and metallics.

So in the case of the Egyptian cat,  I'll stick with the painted colors since this piece is an online study piece.  If I changed the nose to black, it would disappear in online photographs, making Tapestry Fair unhappy and not selling the stitch guides I hope to sell once I finish up the piece.

I'd also had enough of trying to stitch with black thread on black paint on this one anyway!

Does that answer your question, Donna?

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

Breaking News: Strictly Christmas Has a Facebook Page!

Strictly Christmas Needlepoint has set up a Facebook page and is in the process of creating a website. I am very happy.  These fabulous designs need to be exposed on the Internet for those who have never seen them in a shop.
https://www.facebook.com/StrictlyChristmasNeedlepoint/

The website isn't ready yet but the Facebook page says they hope it will be available for browsing before the end of June 2016.
http://strictlychristmasetc.com

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

A SWAN Organizes UPDATED

Stephanie went to her SWAN group party and discovered how one member organizes her stash. It's fun to see!
http://stephsstitching.blogspot.com/2016/05/whats-your-needlepoint-set-up.html

I think the chest is a NORDL one but I'm not certain.
http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/categories/departments/bedroom/10451/

UPDATE:  Sara Leigh thinks this is the ALEX.  I think she is right!  Sharp eyes, SL!
http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40196241/#/50264927

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

Needlepoint Flix Trial Membership

BeStitched is turning five years old! To celebrate the shop is offering a seven day trial membership this week at the Copper Tier level to their Needlepoint Flix program. 
https://www.bestitchedneedlepointshop.com/6080/our-gift-to-you/

This is the Needlepoint Flix website. NP Flix is stitching videos, some from classes, some are video stitch guides, some are demonstrations of various stitches and techniques.  Their offerings are unique in the world of needlepoint and particularly useful for those who learn best by watching.
http://www.needlepointfix.com

BeStitched allowed me access to do a review last year when they first started the program.  But the best way to learn about what they offer is to sign up for this trial and explore.
https://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2015/05/the-needlepoint-video-channel.html

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

Cat's Eyes and Noses

After a bit of work I've finished my Egyptian cat's eyes and started on its jewelry. The cat's eyes are a focal point of this piece, being in the center of the design and being eyes, which are generally the focal point of a person or animal, after all. So I thought it would be clever of me to highlight them with metallic stitches.   So I tent stitched the eyes with Kreinik and outlined them with blue Splendor silk.  This shine becomes even more important because Egyptian jewelry is not sparkly.  The gold and gems on the cat's collar, headdress and earring need to be matte.  That contrast will be important.

Not familiar with Egyptian jewelry?  Then you'll want to read these historical summaries of the type and meaning of materials used.
http://classroom.synonym.com/ancient-egyptian-jewelry-9746.html

http://www.ancientdigger.com/2013/02/the-history-and-meaning-of-ancient.html

Orange Shimmer Blend Ribbon Floss

The biggest problem I've had with the cat's face has been the nose.  First, I tried horizontal stitches using orange Shimmer Blend ribbon floss.  I decided that it was too sparkly so I ripped it out and restitched it in the same way with regular orange ribbon floss.  That just didn't look good.

Then I tried pale pink Flair, thinking the coral nose color would show through, but it didn't.  The nose is way too light now.  I ripped again.

Finca Perle Cotton from Prescencia

Next I choose the medium shade of orange perle cotton used in the background behind the cat.  Because this is size 12 perle, I decided I would satin stitch it vertically...

Finca Cotton Floss from Prescencia

...then I added a top layer using the same color in cotton floss.  Still too light in color and it looks sort of odd.  Sigh.  I ripped again!

So far I like my first choice of the Shimmer Blend ribbon floss the best.  I have decided to wait until the jewelry is stitched and then try that thread again.  With the jewelry in place, the nose may not shine like a lighthouse beacon and be too prominent.

The moral is stitch, rip and try again until you get it right.  If you never do, rip out and stitch another area.  One thread really effects the threads next to it.  When I try stitching the nose again, the least bad thread may be perfect. Or I may be ripping again!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 19, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Inspired By Needlepoint

This Swedish designer is turning out machine-cross stitched chairs inspired by needlepoint his grandmother did.  Many thanks to Jo I.C. for posting about this on Facebook.
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/05/05/style/johan-lindsten-furniture-design-chairs.html?mwrsm=Facebook&_r=0

You can see more about his four season chairs on his website.
http://www.lindstenform.com/#!portfolio-item/cappellini-embroidery-chair

http://www.lindstenform.com/#!portfolio-item/1641

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