My Next Project

I've been rummaging in my stash, trying to see what I want to blog-stitch next.  But before I reveal my next public project, I thought I'd tell you about something that I've never stitched but that has started to intrigue me--projects with lettering.

I'm sure you've seen those signs from & More with a striped background.  They are always popular.
http://www.andmorethreads.com/andmorethreads.com/Sayings.html

Of course many designers have saying canvases.  How about "Mermaid My Day" from CBK?
http://www.needlepoint.com/mermaid-my-day-19115.html

Or maybe Zecca's "Just Be Kind" will speak to you.
http://needlepointalley.com/site/?page_id=7#!/Just-Be-Kind/p/35573110/category=8327483

The sky's the limit when it comes to styles that word canvases come in as these postings by Pocket Full of Stitches of the range of sayings they had in the shop in July demonstrate.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2016/07/christmas-in-july-letters-words-sayings.html

http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2016/07/christmas-in-july-letters-words-sayings_19.html

With all these sayings so popular, of course bloggers have talked about their current canvases and how they stitched them.  Suzanne in particular loves sayings canvases and has lots of great ideas for them.  She likes to use metallic and tent stitches for skinny lettering to make it pop off the background.
http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2016/04/rub-some-dirt-on-it.html

She loves large expanses of blank background so she can use complex, compound stitches in multiple threads there.
http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2016/05/mother-darling.html

And she just figured out a way to make the slightly larger words raised.
http://suzannehicks.blogspot.com/2016/05/exciting-new-stitch-for-lettering.html

 I'm sure I'll at least think about all these ideas as I start work on my new piece.  (Hint:  the color scheme of my new canvas is cream and lilac.)

I'll show you once I find stretcher bars and get it attached to them.

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

A Motto to Live By

I just spotted Tess and Thorn's business card on Facebook. Words to live by! 
https://www.facebook.com/tessandthorn/photos/a.987358254671599.1073741829.987255491348542/1090236024383821/?type=3&theater

If you want to see what these two get up to, here is the Tess and Thorn's website link.
http://www.tessandthorn.com/our-story/

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

Tony's Going to New Orleans UPDATED

The incomparable Tony Minieri is going to New Orleans for the 2016 ANG Seminar. He'll be at Expo Night, showing off his products and new class pieces.
https://vimeo.com/178543003

If you aren't going, you can just visit his website.  Less dramatic music but lots and lots of goodies!
http://www.tonyminieri.com

UPDATE:  Tony announced at Expo Night in New Orleans that he now has a 2017 calendar and notecards, all based on high quality photographs of his six international textile designs.  They are available for sale at Expo and also on his website.
https://www.facebook.com/tonyminieridesigns/posts/847255738707915

http://www.tonyminieri.com/tony-products

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 28, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

We Have a Winner! UPDATED

We have a big winner at the 2016 ANG Seminar Exhibit--Debbie Tennis  Susan Newman!  She won a blue ribbon in one of the painted canvas areas (don't know which), the Beth Robertson Award, a Judges Choice ribbon and Best in Show.  Way to go, Susan.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10210627409705943&set=gm.1126018920808598&type=3&theater

And Donna LaBranche won a blue ribbon, too.  Congratulations, everyone.
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2016/08/deadlines.html

UPDATE:  Folks says that Debbie posted the photo, and that Susan Newman was the winner.  Sorry!  I didn't understand the message obviously.  Also, the second link was correct but pointed to the Facebook page where this was mentioned.  I am not sure why when I changed the URL it still went to the previous URL.  I guess Blogger hated me yesterday.

UPDATE #2:  Here's something about Melita's ribbon and a lot of other winners, too.
https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2016/09/02/2016-exhibit-awards/

UPDATE #3:  Vicky DeAngelis won a ribbon, too.  This is Sandra Gilmore's Be Kind Buddha.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/while-you-werent-looking-2/

UPDATE #4:  Brenda won, too!  Congratulations
https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2016/09/rose-swirls-updated-9416.html

UPDATE #5:  Kathleen won for her expanded version of Jim Wurth's Xanadu.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=787147591426382&set=a.298503836957429.1073741825.100003934465318&type=3&theater

UPDATE #6:  Catherine Jordan's little box won the Small Masterpiece Award.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1285740471436776&set=a.107432302600938.13420.100000025059624&type=3&theater

UPDATE #7:  Debbie Rowley of DebBee's Designs went to Seminar and had a blast, plus she won ribbons!
http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/?p=1785

UPDATE #8:  Dawn won all sorts of ribbons for this counted canvaswork sampler.  Lovely!
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10207698607565225&set=pcb.1135741213169702&type=3&theater

UPDATE #9:  Frances Whiting won two ribbons, one for her purse and one for her framed heart.  Use the side arrows to drool over them both.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10209854102565129&set=pcb.1136123346464822&type=3&theater

UPDATE #10:  Coleen Greenley won a ribbon, too!  Check out her charming house here.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/1139258579484632/

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

NJNA Goes to New Orleans UPDATED with Melita's and jan's Visits

Some of the folks who belong to NJNA (that's the New Jersey Needle Artists chapter of the American Needlepoint Guild) are going to ANG's Seminar in New Orleans that is happening this week.  Here's their various reports posted to the NJNA blog.  I'll update these so you can follow along with their adventures, organized by classes if possible.

Here is Nancy Cucci's class, "For the Love of Chocolate."  Tasty!
https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/08/28/seminar-in-nola/

UPDATES:
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/08/28/for-the-love-of-chocolate/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/08/29/day-3-of-for-the-love-of-chocolate/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/08/30/nola-seminar-day-5/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/09/08/chocolate-update/

Jan is taking this class, too.
https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/08/28/seminar-in-nola/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/09/01/back-to-class/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/09/16/more-chocolate/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/09/18/chocolate-covered-strawberry/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/09/27/fudge-and-ice-cream/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/10/02/molten-lava-cake/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/10/13/chocolate-update-2/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/10/18/truffles-done/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/11/08/chocolate-on-the-home-stretch/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/11/12/chocolate-is-complete/


Terry Dryden's "African Images" is lovely.
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/08/27/new-orleans/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/08/28/african-images/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/08/28/african-images-2/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/08/31/2330/


UPDATE:  Here's Gail Sirna's class, "Florida Palm."  I think this is particularly lovely.  I also greatly admire Gail's work.
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/08/28/first-class-at-seminar/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/08/30/first-touring-day-in-nola/

UPDATE:  Here is a big about Gail Stafford's class "At the Beach."
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/08/29/at-the-beach/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/08/31/commanders-palace/

Gail is also teaching a one day class called "Swirling Tulips."
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/08/31/seminar-days-4-and-5/

UPDATE:  All about Nancy Cucci's "Sisters" class.
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/09/01/day-1-of-sisters-by-nancy-cucci/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/09/01/uber-delicious/

UPDATE:  This is all about "Beets" which is one of Jennifer Reifenberg's vegetable series.
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/09/01/beets-day-1/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/09/01/beets/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/09/01/from-chocolate-to-beets/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/09/04/home-from-seminar/

UPDATE:  Melita's not a member of NJNA but I thought it made sense to add her visit blogging here as well.  She's taking Lois Kershner's "Provence Pottery Shop."
https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2016/08/29/provence-pottery-shop-with-lois-kershner/

https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2016/08/30/ang-auction/

Melita took Margaret Kinsey's "Learning about Rozashi--Patterns in Blue and Green" class.
https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2016/09/01/ang-seminar-2016-classes/

Melita tells us a bit about the ANG Auction.
https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2016/08/31/mello-joy-coffee/

Here's a bit about Expo.
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2016/09/01/bits-and-pieces/


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 28, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wendy Leads a Tour of Needle in a Haystack

After Wendy took us to visit Luv 2 Stitch and City Needlework, she volunteered to do a tour of her local shop, Needle in a Haystack.  Of course I said YES PLEASE!   So here it is, all about Needle in a Haystack.

Needle in a Haystack is located on the lovely small island of Alameda, located between San Francisco to the west and Oakland to the east.  (It is not to be confused with Needle in a Haystack in Montrose, which is in the Los Angeles area in Southern California.)

I have been an NIAH customer since it opened at its first storefront on the busy main shopping street in Alameda in 1998.  I was new to Alameda and so excited there was a world-class stitching shop in my new home town.  NIAH moved to a second larger space on the main retail street on the other side of the island.  The third move was to a converted pencil factory.  NIAH is currently in its fourth storefront.  This most recent move was to a smaller office space.  

I'm only going to write about the current space.  The current space has the smallest square footage of all the locations occupied by NIAH.  However, it is packed with needlework treasures, and if the shop doesn't have something on the floor, the staff is quick to order for the customer.  I love getting the phone calls from staff, telling me I have something in my "hold" folder, and I can pick it (them) up anytime the shop is open.

There are two entrances to the shop.  I go in the door from the parking lot....there is ample parking very close to the shop, and no steps for those who can't navigate them.  As you enter the shop from the door off the parking lot, threads hang off grids on the walls on both sides of the hallway.  On the right are DMC Perles, Wildflowers and Watercolours.  On the left are the Glorianas, Needlepoint Inc silks and Soie d'Alger, among others.  

As you enter the main floor space, spinners on the right hold carded threads, such as the Rainbow Gallery family of threads.  A wide magazine rack holds current counted stitching charts....Just Nan, Blackbird Designs, Lizzie Kate, Victoria Sampler are just a few of the extensive selection.  Behind it, shelving holds canvas baskets of even more counted stitching charts.  Customers are welcome to take these baskets off the shelf and go to the stitching table to look through the charts.  Careful!  Some of the baskets on the top shelves are heavy, but the staff will help you take them down.  Needlework bling, i.e., magnets, adhere to metal grids.

As you turn the corner at the end of the hallway, you see on the right the cutting table, which is topped by a heavy slab of marble.  It sits in front of the shelves of fabrics.  For those who like spatial images, this wall of fabrics is on the other side of the hallway.  The staff will gladly serge any of the fabric cuts for you.

Walking along the perimeter, you'll see cases for DMC floss, spooled threads, like Kreinik, charms and buttons against the windows that face the parking lot.  Every inch of space is used...atop the cases are needlework samples, tote bags, and baskets of kits.

In front of the cases is the stitching table.  Continuing around to the back of the shop, spinners hold a nice selection of scissors (there are also scissors and really special scissor cases residing in the glass case that also acts as the check out counter), Q-snaps, stretcher bars and tacks.  I especially love the Hardwicke Manor wooden hoops, made with brass fittings.  Very smooth wood and nice fit to hold the ground fabric tightly for stitching.  Spinners also hold more stitching patterns.  Racks against the wall opposite the windows hold needles and marking supplies.  Next to that are the poster display racks to which needlepoint canvases are pinned.

Baskets and containers are all over the store, holding small kits, like the Mill Hill perforated paper kits (currently, the sugar skull kits are pretty popular), kitted threads for some of the counted stitching charts, bamboo pendant cross stitch kits, Just Nan needle slides, Stitch n Zips, etc.

There is a short hallway from the other door, which opens out to the street.  Along those walls are the wools, Silk and Ivory, and others.  Further down is a magazine rack with the latest stitching magazines, as well as Tea Time, as the staff loves tea.

NIAH is a destination shop, which means there isn't a lot of walk-in pedestrian traffic.  Having said that, I've seldom been in the shop when I was the only customer.  The website is also extensive and I'm astounded at the number of threads that NIAH sells when I look at the website.  I shop at NIAH regularly and see its walls of threads but the extent of their inventory doesn't hit you until you peruse the pages and pages of listings on the website.  This shop is small in square footage, but packs in so many treasures and surprises.  The staff is friendly and helpful, and each one is talented in many areas of stitching and craftwork.

Oh, and there is a stitching has its rewards program.  NIAH doesn't have many sales, but I actually prefer the rewards program, as I'm earning my very own "sale" every time I shop and accumulate points.  You can read about the rewards program and NIAH's history, as well as order from the extensive needlework inventory, on the website.... www.needlestack.com

Sigh.  It sounds lovely.   Thanks so much for taking us along, Wendy!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 23, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: The Needlepoint Studio of Sarasota is Moving

The Needlepoint Studio of Sarasota, Florida is moving to a new location. They are having a sale ahead of time so there won't be so much to pack and move. They will close September 16 and reopen at the new place September 26.  Wish them luck!
http://us10.campaign-archive2.com/?u=8a70de03090ec6727f99739b9&id=6c4c586e94

http://www.needlepointstudio.com

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 28, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

EAC Registration Opens September 1

The Embroidery Asssociation of Cananda's 2016 Seminar website is up and running. It's a fun browse of all the classes!  Several are "canvas work", i.e., needlepoint, and many have techniques that you can use on a needlepoint canvas ground.  Class registration for EAC members start September 1.
http://eac.ca/seminar/

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

The Heirloom Needlepoint Pumpkin Harvest

Wollworks, a company that recycles old needlepoint into stylish cushions and other items has announced their annual Heirloom Needlepoint Pumpkin Harvest sale will start September 1 at 3 p.m. Central time.   That's this Thursday!!!  Mark your calendars!  To see past heirloom pumpkins made from recycled needlepoint with real dried stems, check out their website.
http://wollworks.com/category_9/Heirloom-Needlepoint-Pumpkins-.htm

Remember, these are one of a kind, so get your credit cards warmed up.  After September 1st, listings will happen each Tuesday at 3 p.m. Central time until the Tuesday before Thanksgiving.

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.

ANG Seminar Reports

Lots of folks are in New Orleans for the American Needlepoint Guild's 2016 Seminar. Here's a round-up of various reports.

Catherine Jordan is teaching and has posted some snapshots on her Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/catherine.jordan.566?hc_ref=NEWSFEED

Melita is there and blogging.
https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2016/08/26/ang-seminar-2016-new-orleans/

The local papers are taking notice of the influx of needlepoint fans.
http://www.theadvocate.com/new_orleans/entertainment_life/home_garden/article_55423f9a-6b09-11e6-a14c-eb976c0eb6a8.html

ANG isn't posting photos yet but hopefully they will soon.  Meanwhile, here's a bit about this year's fun.
http://www.needlepoint.org/Seminar-16/index.php

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

ANG's Online Auction Starts Tomorrow

In order to participate in ANG's online auction, you have to register online. All the details are here.
https://ang.afrogs.org/#/index

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

Do You Want Fringe or a Boxed Edge with That?

Nimble Needle in New Jersey shows off the finishing of their customers' work in this lovely posting. There is a lot to see and enjoy but take special notice of the Pippin Halloween witch hat  and shoes pillows at the top and bottom.  The finishing styles are very different and give a different finished look to the same sort of designs.  Finishing options are limitless and they really do make a piece.
http://nimbleneedlenj.com/finished-items/

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

KC Needlepoint: A Profile

Thanks to Pat, I have this profile of KC Needlepoint by the Kansas City Star to share with you today.  There's a fun video that shows some of the shop and there is also a series of photos you can see by clicking on the arrows under the video.
http://www.kansascity.com/news/business/biz-columns-blogs/cityscape/article97331467.html

The shop has a website where you can see their 12 Days of KC canvases, and much more.  Have fun exploring!
https://www.kcneedlepoint.com

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

Glass Eyes

Thanks to Barbara's mentioning this on Facebook, I have a source for all sorts of glass eyes.
http://www.glasseyesonline.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=55&zenid=72576bd2e2c2f0b9d0dbe6280fbcd3ed

They come in all sizes and a variety of styles.  Some have straight wire backs, some have wire loops, some are flat backed to glue in position.  If you want an eye for your current piece, this is a good place to shop if you don't have a big box crafts store close by.

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

FB Goodstitch Stitches Gone with the Wind UPDATED

Anne Marie and the owner of BF Goodstitch are going to stitch Gone with the Wind together and Anne Marie's blogging about it.  She started with Scarlett's skin and handed out some great tips along the way.
http://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2016/09/

More Scarlett.
http://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2016/11/well-i-do-declare-its-been-terribly.html

And the dress.
http://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2017/01/the-dress.html

Stitching Ashley….
http://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2017/03/oh-ashley-i-love-you-i-love-you-i-do.html

A slight pause in the stitching excitement.
http://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2017/06/when-tomorrow-is-not-another-day.html

Here is Bonnie, Rhett and Scarlett's doomed little girl.
http://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2017/07/dont-get-bull-about-bullions.html

http://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2017/08/feather-in-my-cap.html

Bonnie Blue in Very Velvet
http://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2017/10/feeling-blue.html

Bonnie has Buttons!
http://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2017/11/bonnie-blue-buttons.html

Bonnie has a whip and fingers (and a cool video about stumpwork).
http://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2017/12/whipping-it-up.html

Now they tackle Rhett….
http://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2018/02/heaven-help-man-who-ever-really-loves.html

https://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2018/04/frankly-my-dear.html

Mammy is next.
https://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2018/06/what-gentlemen-says-and-whatz-they.html

Now for the curtains
http://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2019/01/curtain-call.html

Aunt Pittypat is next!
http://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2019/05/oh-dear-where-are-my-smelling-salts-i.html

http://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2019/09/this-is-war-not-garden-party.html

Now for Melanie.
https://thebfgoodstitch.blogspot.com/2020/07/youve-got-friend.html



Canvas by Labors of Love.  Exciting ideas, comedy and drama by Fidelis and Anne Marie.  You have to bring your own popcorn….


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 23, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Making a Sewing Bird, Step by Step

Are you familiar with Melissa Shirley's Stitching Birds series?  It looks like they are discontinued but Melissa still has some in stock.
http://melissashirleydesigns.com/galsearch/index.cgi?index=1231727968_26504&col=

You will want to see how Sue made up her sewing bird.  It's fascinating and makes me understand that professional finishers are worth every penny.
https://sudukc.wordpress.com/2016/07/13/3d-finishing-melissa-shirley-sewing-bird-part-1/

https://sudukc.wordpress.com/2016/07/20/3d-finishing-melissa-shirley-sewing-bird-part-2/

You can see another finished stitching bird on the Nimble Needle blog.  Lovely!
http://thenimbleneedle.blogspot.com/2013/12/finished-work-customers-pride-and-joy.html

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

Catra: The Egyptian Cat is Finished!

Catra is Finished!

At long last my Egyptian Catra is done. This is a canvas from Tapestry Fair, 10 inches by 11 1/2 on 18 count.  Her official name is "Cleo's Cat" and she is one of a series of Ancient Egyptian-themed designs.  You can see "Bastet" here along with Cleo.
http://www.tapestryfair.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=65&Itemid=1

And here is "On the Nile."
http://www.tapestryfair.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=67&Itemid=1

There is also "Pharoah's Dog" for those who aren't cat people but who still love Egyptian themes.
http://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/product/pharaoh-dog/

Catra Framed

So you see Catra comes from a beautiful family, which made stitching her a challenge.  Ruth Schmuff has done guides for both Bastet and Pharoah's Dog.  Tony Minieri has done guides for Catra and Bastet.  How does one compete with talented stitchers like these?!!!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2013/05/national-bastet-day.html

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2014/03/the-pharoah-dog.html

http://www.tonyminieri.com/tapestry-fair

The answer is you don't.  You have to do something totally different.  But what?  It turns out the key for my choosing stitches and threads for Catra was to look for matte threads, beads that aren't shiny, and to add touches like the mummy and extra hieroglyphs to the background.

Catra at the County Fair

Catra went off to the county fair, by the way.  She won a first place ribbon but sadly, that's not too hard when you are the only needlepoint entered.  I can see I have to do some education close to home!

But first I need to choose my next project....

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

Are You Going to New Orleans?

If you are planning to go to ANG's Seminar in New Orleans, you might need to pick up this chart as a souvenir!
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2016/08/new-orleans.html

If you aren't going, bet Donna can get a chart to you anyway....

Vicky's going.  She's talking about her class here.
http://mostlyneedlepoint.com/laissez-les-bons-temps-rouler-4/

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

The New "Take a Class Long Distance" Trend UPDATED

So many stitchers--myself included--live hours from the closest needlepoint shop.   For a long time mail order classes have filled that gap.  Mystery classes from the likes of Ruth Schmuff at Bedecked and Beaddazzled have helped many of us take classes that otherwise would have been just too far away or at inconvenient times due to your busy schedules.
http://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/classes/mystery-classes/

And of course stitch guides fill the gap to some extent.  You can learn a lot by stitching along using guidance from one of the many talented guide writers who are working today.
http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

But shop owners are starting to add new class options for the long distance stitcher.  Lisa at BeStitched is the leader here with her class videos that are available to folks taking her classes, whether they are local or not.  You can see the three upcoming classes on the Bestitched blog.
https://www.bestitchedneedlepointshop.com/blog/

Jinny Barney is now teaching via videos for Needlepoint.com.  Here is her new class--snow for snowmen, winter skies and fluffy stuff falling to the ground.
http://stitchstyleblog.com/2016/08/frosty-stitches-online-class/

Her Santa's Beards class and her beading class are also still available.
http://www.needlepoint.com/santa-s-beard-and-mustache-class.html

http://stitchstyleblog.com/2016/07/new-online-beading-class/

The Internet has made a huge difference in our stitching lives, hasn't it?  I can't wait to see who else jumps on this new trend.

UPDATE:  Comfy Cottage's newest kit has a free online video component.
https://www.comfy-cottage.com/products/star-beginner-needlepoint-kit

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

Breaking News: New Owner for Creative Stitches and Gifts

Creative Stitches and Gifts in Dallas has a new owner--Carol Eix!
http://www.creativestitchesandgifts.com

The reason Carol's name seems familiar is because you love her line of snap trays and frame weights and those clever button laying tool holders.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2015/06/carol-eix.html

Congratulations to Carol and Creative Stitches!

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

Spiffing Up the Name Tag

Brenda decided to spruce up her name tag before she heads to New Orleans for the 2016 ANG Seminar. 
https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2016/08/updated-name-tag-082116.html

Doesn't it look fabulous now?!

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

DMC's Stitchable Mesh Fabric UPDATED

DMC now has a stitchable mesh metallic fabric that is silver on one side and gold on the other.  Think silk gauze crossed with metal window screening....
http://yarntree.typepad.com/needlework_news/2016/07/stitchable-mesh-fabric.html

It comes in 10 inch square rolls.  I haven't been able to find out what count the mesh is or how stiff the fabric is.  If you have seen this stuff, would you comment below or email me at chilly hollow at hot mail dot com?  I'd love to know more.
http://www.brewersewing.com/p-1011095-stitchable-mesh-fabric-10-x-10.aspx

Many thanks to the Needlework Retailer for bringing this to my attention.

UPDATE:  Pat Correz asked DMC for clarification on how this is used.  Sharlene Dinolfo got right back to her, telling Pat it is used like an even weave fabric for embroidery, but it doesn't have a specific mesh count.  Sharlene sent Pat photographs of it in use which I've attached here.  Thanks very much to Pat and Sharlene for their help!

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

Visiting Cindy's Needle Art

While on vacation in Toronto, Sheena visited Cindy's Needle Art in the Toronto suburbs. Then she came home and treated us to pictures!  The shop name may not ring a bell, but I bet you know Sew Much Fun, the designs that Cindy and her sister Randi design, stitch and send all over the USA.
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/visit-cindys-needle-art/

If you fall in love with something, let the shop know and they'll ship it right out to you.
http://www.cindysneedleart.com

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

A Tisket, A Tasket, Creating a Needlepoint Basket

Jan creates a lovely basket handle with a simple technique using twine that is tacked down along the handle curve, then wrapped with thread.
https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/07/14/needlework-basket/

If you'd like to see the entire canvas Jan's working on, here is the link.
https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2016/07/08/needlework-painted-canvas/

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

How to Build a Scissors Fob

Orna Willis will show you how she builds her scissors fobs on her blog.  The detail in each is incredible!
http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2016/08/how-i-choose-my-embellishment-elements.html

http://ornadesign.blogspot.com/2016/08/my-daily-creations.html

I don't know if the examples she used will still be available in Orna's Etsy store, but lucky us--she has 33 scissor fobs there as I write this!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/ADORNBYORNA?section_id=7656415

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

The BeadSmith's Sticky Bead Mats

I've been reading rave reviews on Facebook for the sticky bead mats that BeadSmith makes.  I'm told when the stickiness wears off because of dust, you can rinse them off and when they dry, they are sticky again.
http://www.shipwreckbeads.com/catalog/Beading-Tools-and-Accessories/Beading-Tools/Bead-Mats-and-Layout-Boards/Sticky-Bead-Mats//orderBy/sku/itemsPerPage/20/page/1/item/MS65-XL/item/MS65-C

They come in various sizes and colors, and the pricing varies so shop around.    Some of the larger needlepoint shops have these, too.

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

Breaking News: Jean Hilton's Little Guys Now Available

The publisher of Jean Hilton's designs, Stitches from the Heart, just announced that Jean's "Little Guys" series is now available in a single book, along with a similar Tony Minieri design called Rockaway.
http://stitches-heart.com/jean-hilton-release-rockaway-and-18-little-guys-in-a-single-book/

Counted canvas workers are rejoicing!

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

Wendy and Daughters Head to Luv 2 Stitch

Recently my friend Wendy and her two daughters visited two shops in their area that are a little out of the way for them to visit. They don't usually go visit them, but they had a great time and will go back when they can.  Wendy very kindly reported back to me on Luv 2 Stitch and City Needleworks.  Her descriptions of the two shops were so interesting that I asked her permission to reprint her mini reviews here.  Thanks, Wendy!
**********************************************

Here's my description of Luv2Stitch. Sorry I don't have photos too, but I don't have a smart phone and rarely take my camera with me, though I really should improve my photography skills. The Luv2Stitch and Yelp sites have photos.
https://www.yelp.com/biz/luv2stitch-san-mateo

Luv2Stitch is in a non-descript strip mall in a residential neighborhood in San Mateo. Unlike City Needlework, which can rely on foot traffic, being on a popular downtown street, Luv2Stitch isn't a walk-to destination. It shares the mall with a bakery/cafe, a martial arts studio, a mani-pedi-hair salon type shop, I believe a real estate office? We didn't go into the other shops.
http://luv2stitch.com

The strip mall building is ok, nothing fancy, which is why I was delighted when I entered Luv2Stitch. One enters through a dark painted double Dutch door, with bright gold shiny hardware, an auspicious start with such attention to detail. The shop is very big, it takes up three storefronts. We'll start with the middle room, where one enters.

To the right of the door is a nicely carved console table that hold needlework magnets and some small items. To the left is another table holding canvases. In the middle of the room is another table that hold needlework books and magazines, with some stitched samples. Many of the samples are Halloween. There are double width doorways on both side walls leading to the thread room on the right and the work room on the left. We'll go in there later.

Mounted on the walls all the way to the ceiling was the current trunk show of Shelly Tribbey Halloween canvases, 25% off during the show. Against the walls on both sides further into the room pass the doorways are glass curio cabinets that hold small stitched samples and canvases. There is also an antique dressmaker's mannequin that holds more needlework magnets. Against the back wall, straight across from the front door is the register counter. Behind that are more stitched samples and large Shelly Tribbey canvases.

Into the thread room to the right. There's a table in the middle of the room for clients to place their canvases and choose threads. The threads line all the walls, some hanging on pegs and some on spinners. Canvases hang at the top of the wall. A good selection of Asian-inspired canvases, but not as many as City Needleworks. In addition to threads, there are accessories (scissors, needles, etc.) and beads.

Out of the thread room and across the middle room into the work room, which has three large tables. A stitching session was in progress, with a teacher, I forgot her name, who was helping the ladies with their individual canvases. It looks like the shop provides Needlework System 4 floor stands for students to use, as everyone seemed to be using one and there were a couple of extras "littering" the floor. One lady was stitching an Egyptian-inspired canvas. It looked like a bird with the wings outspread or an Egyptian lady with her arms out, wearing a feathered cape? Anyway, it was gorgeous. Another woman was stitching a collage that included an Oregon license plate. All around the room were canvases pinned to the walls.

These first three rooms were large and very bright. In the work and thread rooms, bright lights were hanging from the ceiling.

Walking out of the work room towards the back of the shop, one enters a darker room that holds a bookcase with catalogs from design companies, more glass fronted cabinets holding stitched samples, and a table in the middle. The room isn't as well lighted, but this room is used for staff to kit canvases and threads for customers, and to peruse the catalogs. In the back of the room, the light is even dimmer, but is outfitted with a couch, comfy chairs and lamps and is a cozy spot to stitch alone or with a couple of other people. There's a bar cart to hold coffee, tea or other refreshments.

In the back to the right of the cash register counter are the bathrooms, but we didn't go back there.

This shop is really classy, from the front door to the layout to the shop fixtures to the lighting to that cozy stitching nook in the back. The one lady working there was very friendly. She only started needlepoint a few years ago, having done other types of stitching before. She now exclusively needlepoints because she loves it so much. She loved that the three of us needlepoint and offered to arrange a teacher to go to Sarah's school if Sarah wanted to organize a needlepoint/stitching group.

The bags are even classy--heavy weight with a bit of shine. We were fighting over it to hold out needlework projects....I won. 

Luv2Stitch reminds me of Aristeia in Santa Monica, both giving off a very elegant feeling. And both occupying a lot of square footage. There's a lot of oohing and ahhing when one walks into either place.

Sigh.  We all wish we'd gone with you and the girls, Wendy. Thanks for the tours!

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

Wendy and Daughters Go On Tour

Recently my friend Wendy and her two daughters visited two shops in their area that are a little out of the way for them to visit. They don't usually go visit them, but they had a great time and will go back when they can.  Wendy very kindly reported back to me on Luv 2 Stitch and City Needleworks.  Her descriptions of the two shops were so interesting that I asked her permission to reprint her mini reviews here.  Thanks, Wendy!  We'll start with City Needlework.  They are well known for their line of Chinese silk floss, by the way.
***********************************************

Thought I'd describe City Needlework...of course, you know the company because of the silk threads. The shop is on a busy shopping street in downtown San Mateo. It's fairly small but packed to the gills. The shop is about 12' by 24' of retail space, but it doesn't feel cramped. When you walk in, there is an armless needle pointed easychair, main color is hello with a Oriental floral design. The owner did the needlepoint but I don't know who finished it.
http://www.cityneedlework.com

On the wall to the left are the City Needlework silk threads. On the right is a small round glass-topped bistro size table with a couple of chairs around it. This is where regulars gather to needlepoint. By the door on the right is a basket of sale canvases. I bought one canvas that was commissioned for a wedding, but was painted in the wrong color. The window display is also to the right. It's a bay window and is packed with stitched samples.

Further into the store, there is a shelving unit that sticks out about 3' and holds piles of canvases. Most of them are smaller canvases, no bigger than 14x14 or so. Opposite the shelving unit on the right is a carousel of other threads and needlework accessories. Larger canvases are pinned to the wall all the way up to the ceiling. In the back, there is a display that I can describe but don't know the name for...it's when shops have canvases pinned to a display board that's on a hinge and you can turn the boards like pages of a gigantic book.

In the back right is the cash register. The counter usually has piles of small canvases no bigger than 6x6.

The owner is Chinese and has a boy and a girl. The girl is in her late pre-teens and loves to needlepoint. She especially loves having Mommy's store as her personal stash!

What I love about the store is 1) how friendly and helpful the owner is, 2) the huge selection of canvas, 3) the huge selection of Asian-inspired canvas, more than any other place I've visited.

The owner carries the full line of her silk thread, but her other thread selection isn't as extensive. As she told me, she'd rather have an extensive collection of canvases, since she knows ere are other stores who carry more threads. As it is, the thread collection is pretty good if one wants to stick with silk and bling threads.

If you google "Yelp city needlework San Mateo" you can see a few photos of the store on the Yelp site.

https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/city-needlework-san-mateo?select=htemBG3iKCueSLo8ziNsCQ

Thanks, Wendy!  Tomorrow we'll let Wendy take us to Luv 2 Stitch.

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

Catra's Two Borders

Beads Test

Now that the cat and background are done, it's time to tackle Catra's bottom border. The real issue after I got it stitched was whether to add beads to the border and if so, where?  I had decided that ivory was the right color of bead since that brought out the color of the hieroglyphs, so I pulled all the beads from my stash with the same ivory color as the hieroglyphics and laid them out on my canvas to see what I liked.  I discovered some pretty gold beads so I included them as well.

You can probably tell I decided that putting beads on top of the orange boxes was the way to go.  Which do you like?

I liked the ivory squares and the "paw print" pattern the best.  However, something in every orange box seemed too much to me so I skipped every other box.  Here's what I ended up with.

Second Beads Test 

As you can see, I tweaked the paw beads a bit to make them a little less crowded-looking.  Now I was ready to find a frame.  I wanted to use a pre-made frame as Catra is going to be entered in the county fair and I don't have time to have her professionally framed.  I measured the dimensions and discovered that the Egyptian Cat was 10 inches wide by 11 1/4 tall.  That's not going to fit in a pre-made frame.  What to do?!

I decided I would add a second border under the first so that Catra was 10x12 inches.  Most pre-made frames are 11x14 but with a mat, she'll fit in a frame.   Here is what I came up with.

Second Border

The second turquoise border you see is the same stitch used in the backgrounds behind the cat and in the orange boxes.  All I've varied in the three places is the thread weight, plus I added a running stitch to my second border to hide the empty spots behind the stitch.

The stitch is a variation of Parisian Stitch, turned on its side.  For the background behind the cat, I used orange size 12 perle cotton.  For the orange boxes in the original border, I used the same perle cotton, but doubled in the needle to provide more coverage.  For the new border, I used one ply of Watercolours and after I finished the stitch, I added a horizontal running stitch (over two, under one) to cover the white canvas between stitches.

I like it.  I think it looks like a roughly woven linen, which would be appropriate for an Egyptian piece.

Next time, I'll reveal the finished Cleo's Cat and talk about what I plan to blog stitch next.

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

All About Melita's Scissors

Melita shows off her scissors collection. Some of them I've never seen before!  Luckily for my scissor lust, she tells us what she likes to use them for and clues us in to scissors not worth the cash.
https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2016/07/11/scissors/

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

Basketweave and Continental Explained

Today at The Whimsical Stitch Mary explains how Basketweave and Continental stitches are done and explains where she uses each.  It's a great tutorial on each stitch so I've added it to the "Tutorials and Tips" tab for later reference.

http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/7/10/the-smallest-of-all

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 11, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Sonata, Step By Step

Debbie Rowley of DebBee's Designs is working on a new teaching piece called "Sonata." I think it's great fun to see the design develop, from the colors chosen to even a new stitch created to suit an empty space.  Eventually the chart will be sold but not until after the class (or classes) are over.
http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/?p=1716

http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/?p=1724

http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/?p=1727

http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/?p=1731

http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/?p=1736

http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/?p=1741

http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/?p=1745

http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/?p=1749

http://debbeesdesigns.com/DDWrdPrs/?p=1754

Wasn't that fun?!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright  July 10, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Another Way to Thread a Needle

Mary Corbet mentioned this needle threading tutorial  by Luzine Happel which you might like to try if you can't ever find a needle threader when you need one and the traditional method just isn't working for you.
https://www.luzine-happel.de/?p=6777&lang=en

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

Southern Charm (With Needlepoint on the Side)

Lycette Designs' newest television show to binge on while stitching is "Southern Charm." 
http://lycettedesigns.com/netflix-needlepoint-3-0/

Some full episodes of this reality show are available on the Bravo Channel's website if you subscribe via DirecTv.  Don't know yet if any needlepoint is glimpsed there....
http://www.bravotv.com/southern-charm/videos

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

Let's Learn Something New with Ruth

Ruth Schmuff is offering beading kits for those who want to learn how to surround a cabochon with beading. What fun!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/08/how-to-bezel-cabochon.html

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

Counting to 39

Do Jessicas make your head spin? Ruth Schmuff explains (with a lovely diagram) how to create a Jessica. Tip #1--stay off Facebook as you count! LOL
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/07/lets-talk-jessicas.html

Hummmm....

Maybe my inability to count to three is really my inability to pay attention?  Regardless, thanks for the insights into Jessicas, Ruth.

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

New Classes from Tony and Brenda

I don't normally list classes here (it's a ton of work and very few people look at the tab I used to maintain) but these two classes at Chandail Needlework are special. So here goes! First up, Tony Minieri has a new counted piece that he's starting to teach. It's called "Mumtaz Mahal" and appears to be one of his designs inspired by ethnic fabrics.
http://www.chandailneedlework.com/classes-and-workshops.htm#mumtaz

Brenda Stofft is going to teach at Chandail, too.  I've never known her to teach a class before and this one is all about her dimensional stuffed rabbit. Amazing!
http://www.chandailneedlework.com/2016-workshops.htm/2014-workshops.htm#Stofft

If you are interested in the classes, check with the shop.  I don't know if they allow "ghosts."  Ghosts are people taking a class long distance instead of being in the shop for it.  Normally ghost students are mailed the class materials once the class ends so that any changes or clarifications that come up during the actual class can be added to the kit.

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

Keeping Track of Projects

Jan at Thread Medley outlines how she uses Bento to track her projects.  The database she uses is no longer available for Apple machines, but anyone who can create a spreadsheet or a tables document can copy her layout successfully.  I think the way she keeps her current projects above the projects just maturing in her stash is exceptionally clever, too.
https://threadmedley.wordpress.com/2016/06/05/tracking-my-projects/

If you like having things organized, Jan has great ideas.

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

The Three Stwooges Mystery FINISHED

Ruth Schmuff has chosen her early fall mystery class--Love You More's Three Stwooges!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/07/happy-4th-of-july-from-three-stwooges.html

I'll update this article as Ruth posts her lesson outcomes.  First, she dealt with the sky, the pumpkins and ground, and the spooky trees.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/08/and-so-it-begins.html

Next she stitched the owl faces and their hats!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/09/peronality-plus.html

And now the owls have ruffs!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/10/trick-or-treat.html

Ruth is right, this canvas just screams happiness.

UPDATE:  Ruth's model is back from the finisher, just in time for Halloween 2017.  It's a fabulous standup.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2017/10/the-three-stwooges-are-here.html

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

Making DMC's Threads (Video)

This YouTube video explains (in French with subtitles) how DMC threads are made.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6M7CtTwGo2o&feature=youtu.be

Many thanks to Kevin for mentioning this on Facebook.

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

Sheena Goes Shopping

Sheena has been on the road in Ohio and takes us to Louise's Needlework..,
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/impromptu-visits/

... and then to What's the Point? Needlepoint.
http://www.sheenasstitches.com/columbus-part-2/

Both trips have stitch diagrams and cat photos tossed in for free!  Thanks, Sheena.  I love your original stitches and getting virtual tours of some of the great shops I've only seen online is just icing on the cake.

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

A Tribute Clutch

Mrs. Blandings shows off the clutch purse she designed and stitch in honor of her husband.
http://www.mrsblandings.com/2016/06/from-the-heart/

Stitching a purse that is a tribute to someone you love and then carrying it in their honor is a fabulous idea!

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

Celebrity Sighting

Scrim Discovery posted a photograph of Betty White needlepointing on Facebook. 
https://www.facebook.com/scrimdiscovery924/photos/a.1053431794673096.1073741828.1053431734673102/1364949576854648/?type=3&theater

I'm guessing this dates to the early 1970s.  What do you think?

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

Strictly Christmas Has a Blog

Break out the bookmarks--Strictly Christmas has started a blog!  It's full of news (they are adding Ann Scott Designs to their line) and fun, too.
http://strictlychristmasetc.com/kathy.html

I've added it to the Blog List down below the koi pond in the right hand column of this page.

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

Key West and Her Sisters

Ada Hayden of EyeCandy just posted photographs of her four Bargello ornaments that have been featured in Needlepoint Now magazine.
http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2016/08/key-west-bargello-ornament-in.html

The latest is "Key West," all orange and pink and shimmery.  It is in the July-August, 2016 issue.  "Water Flowers" was in the May-June 2016 issue.  "Caribbean Waves" was in the March-April issue. The first ornament was "Palm Beach " which was in the January-February issue.  The set are a fun introduction to Bargello and can be stitched in any color for a fun addition to your holiday decor.  Or just for fun!

After all, who doesn't need fun on the bulletin board at the office?

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

Heidi for Halloween UPDATED With Other Holidays

Pocket Full of Stitches has a bunch of Halloween canvases by Heidi on their blog this morning since they are having a trunk show.  Heidi's great designs are hard to find online so I thought I'd add the link for those not familiar with her fun pieces.  If you want to stitch a Halloween piece in September-October, this is a good time to pick up one of these cuties.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2016/08/heidi-trunk-show-halloween.html

UPDATE:  Here are Heidi's Christmas mini socks. I've never seen these before.  Thanks, PFOS!
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2016/08/heidi-trunk-show-mini-socks.html

UPDATE #2:  Word designs from Heidi, mostly for Valentine's Day and Christmas.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2016/08/heidi-trunk-show-words.html

UPDATE #3:  More Christmas fun.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2016/08/heidi-trunk-show-more-christmas.html

UPDATE #4:  Easter, Fourth of July, Valentine's and a tad Thanksgiving.
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2016/08/heidi-trunk-show-misc-designs.html

UPDATE:  More Heidi canvases, posted in a photo album on Facebook by The Needle Bug.
https://www.facebook.com/artistscollection.needlepoint/photos/a.174416246093000.1073741829.174411102760181/593522747515679/?type=3&theater

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