Stitch By Stitch Reviews Destination Dallas

Stitch By Stitch posted a six part series on the 2016 Destination Dallas show on their blog, highlighting canvases and trends they think especially noteworthy.  You can start reading here, then pick up the next issue by clicking on the proper Recent Post listed in the right hand column just under the slide show.
http://www.stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/single-post/2016/09/21/Reflections-from-Destination-DallasPart-1of-6

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

Why Museum Glass is a Good Investment

The Winterthur website talks about the effect of light on textiles, using an 18th Century needlepoint piece to show the effects.
http://museumblog.winterthur.org/2016/07/26/true-colors-light-damage-and-historic-needlework/

Here's a bit about the various types of glass you can choose when framing needlepoint that will be covered in glass.
http://www.frameusa.com/blog/what-are-the-different-types-of-picture-framing-glass/

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

Bitchy Backgrounds

As you probably know, I usually do my background stitching before I tackle the main parts of my design. This is a personal quirk, although sometimes there are good reasons to do a background in a certain order.  Often it doesn't matter, but sometimes it is just good sense to do the background first--or last.  In the case of my current project, I think it will be easier to do all the background stitching first so I can count across the lettering without any distractions.  I don't know about you, but counting seems harder to me when I have a stitched area in the way.

So I need a background stitch, which means time for Mad Scientist Testing Mode!  If you want to pour yourself a cup of your favorite beverage, I'll get out the white lab coat, the protective gloves and the goggles.  Meet you back here in a minute....

Ready?  Ok, here we go.

Pale Purple Test Stitches

I thought at first that the pale purple perle cotton (size 16) would look best as a background so I did a lot of test stitching in the margins with that thread.  As you can see, it's quite pale.  I decided that if I used pale purple thread on a cream background it would be even paler.  The photo above is greatly enhanced so you can see it, in fact.

Medium Dark Purple Test Stitches

Of all the stitches I like the Smooch lips and the darning circles the best so I did a second series of tests, using the medium dark perle cotton in size 16 again.  I started to feel like the porridge at the Three Bears' house--too light and then too dark!  I was afraid that the dark purple (and this wasn't the darkest shade of thread I had) was going to overwhelm the letters.  I did more stash-diving and came up with all the size 16 perle cottons I had--ecru, white and pale yellow.  White was too light and ecru looked dirty on the cream background.  I thought I was going to have to order more threads when I used pale yellow (Finca's 1211 pale yellow) on the cream.  PERFECT!

Who knew that a pale yellow thread would turn cream on a cream background?  It's color magic!

Pale Yellow Test Stitches

Here is the final test result.  Next time I'll show you the stitch I choose and how the background stitch is starting to look once I got quite a few rows in position.

But before I forget--here's Pat's progress on her version of this canvas.  She's powering along on her pretty darning heart background!
http://needleartnut.blogspot.com/2016/09/week-two.html

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

Lycette Collects Vintage Needlepointer Photos

Lycette Designs has a photo album on their Facebook page of celebrity needlepointers from the 1970s (mostly).  It's a fun trip down memory lane.
https://www.facebook.com/lycettedesigns/photos/?tab=album&album_id=236761143322729

If you know of more photographs of stitchers that belong there, let Lycette Designs know.
http://lycettedesigns.com

Sadly, this famous pillow lover doesn't know about needlepoint pillows.
http://heatst.com/politics/must-see-photos-of-hillary-clinton-propped-up-on-pillows/

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

Do You Love Basket Totes?

The tote bags that Cabbage Row Shoppe (and others) sell to have monogrammed designs painted and attached are a big hit on Facebook.  If your favorite shop doesn't stock these summery basket totes, you can order them online.
http://www.qbsdesigns.com/straw-handbags

And of course any small canvas can be attached to the front.  You don't have to go with the classic round monogram ornament.

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.

The Life Changing Flower (Turkeywork Phobia Cured)

Once again Ruth blows our minds with her inventiveness!  If you ever feared turkeywork, you need to read this.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/07/its-life-changing-flower.html

The "Run Bunny Run" canvas is by Zecca and is being stitched as a mystery class through Ruth's online shop, Bedecked and Beaddazzled.   If you are intrigued, you can join in any time.
http://www.bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/Mystery-Classes/

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

Besides the Kelly Bag

Grace Kelly as a Married Princess

You probably know Grace Kelly popularized Hermes' Kelly bag, but although most of her purses appear to have been high quality leather, she did occasionally carry a traditional needlepoint purse in her preferred all tent stitch style.   Lycette Designs found the above lovely photograph of Princess Grace and Prince Rainier and posted it on their Facebook page.  (I borrowed the photo to repost here for those who don't have Facebook accounts.)
https://www.facebook.com/lycettedesigns/photos/a.232050767127100.1073741828.156801494652028/332699413728901/?type=3&theater

You can see the purse better in this display of many items of Grace Kelly's clothing.  It's in the first video at the 1:56 mark.
https://hands-across-the-sea-samplers.com/grace-kellys-wedding-dress/

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

Kreinik Factory Sale Next Week

If you happen to live anywhere near Parkersburg, West Virginia, mark your calendars as the Kreinik factory sale is September 29 - October 1.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2016/09/tent-sale-at-kreinik-factory.html

If you don't live near Parkersburg, I have two words for you----

Road trip!

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

Needlepoint Therapy

This sweet story shows the power of needlepoint.
http://www.autismsupportnetwork.com/news/autism-bigness-small-gesture-388549 

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

Womens Wear Daily and Stitching

Lycette Designs, never one to miss a fashionable moment, just noticed that resort wear for 2017 is all about mock ethnic embroidered accessories. 
http://wwd.com/accessories-news/trends/resort-trend-embroidered-accessories-10498423/

So if you are going to Palm Beach for the winter, better finish that belt, tote bag or shoe!

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

Celebrity Alert: Lucille Ball

DeVaris Needlepoint Finishing found this studio publicity photo of Lucille Ball doing needlepoint and posted it on their Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/355440521325437/photos/a.358483137687842.1073741830.355440521325437/525249524344535/?type=3&theater

Some things never change:  dog, chase lounge, fabulous stitching!

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

Fancywork and Fantasies

Needle Nicely profiles the charts from Carol Costello in this interesting post.  It's proof that a classic design lasts for decades.  Maybe you can't get the threads that were popular then now, but the design is ageless.
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2016/08/carol-costellos-fancywork-and-fantasies.html

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

Bitchy Bling

Bling for Bitch

I'm not quite ready to start working on my Bitch canvas from Bloomin' Stitches but I raided my stash, hereafter to be referred to as Aladdin's Cave, for bling. 

I pulled metallics, sequins, Swarovski crystals and beads and then added a lot of Petite Silk Lame Braid to the pile.  Not all of this will work but I like to have a range of possibilities by my stitching chair so I can choose from them as I work each section of a canvas.

What do you think?  

I think I'd rather play with stash than tackle the sample stitching I need to do before I finalize a background stitch!

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

Janet's Makeover

Everyone with a messy craft storage system will love seeing what Janet Granger and her husband have done to her craft room. Janet is a little different from the bulk of us as she's a professional designer of miniature needlework kits, but the principle is the same.   Enjoy the makeover!
https://janetgranger.wordpress.com/2016/08/11/workroom-makeover/

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.

My Personal Favorites from Destination Dallas 2016

Cool Drink - Erin Nelson

Now that the Destination Dallas show is over and we are moving into the fall holiday season, I wanted to point out designs I really really liked. This is a personal list, just things that whisper "stitch me" when I look at them.  The first on the list is a new artist at Purple Palm Designs.  The "Cool Drink" zebra shown on the left is so appealing due to the cool colors Erin Nelson choose.
http://www.stitchtherapyneedlepoint.com/feature.php?id=34447&title=Cool%20Drink&itemtype=hand%20painted%20canvases

Pair of Quail from Quail Run Designs

How about the quails in this Quail Run design?  I just love them!
https://www.facebook.com/QuailRunNeedlework/photos/a.339586356091534.93299.326583717391798/1192581917458636/?type=3&theater

Alice Peterson Does Mahjong

I'm also crazy about the mahjong canvases from Alice Peterson.  There are three different designs.  I think the one on the right is my personal favorite.  I like the mix of red, yellow and gray, the gate and the lanterns.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1104089483000971&set=a.1093597670716819.1073741826.100001997882176&type=3&theater

Julie Mar's Peppermint Stick Mouse Sock

I have to say this peppermint stick mouse stocking from Julie Mar is the cutest thing ever!  Of course I love pink.
http://www.juliemardesigns.com/pc/KL166/NEW/White+Mouse+on+Candy+Cane

Laurel Birch Flowers

Continuing my fascination this September with floral and animal canvases are these two from Laurel Burch/Danji.
https://www.facebook.com/DanjiDesigns/photos/pcb.1073904005979351/1073903922646026/?type=3&theater

Another Laurel Burch from Painted Pony Designs

I love the simplicity of the horse and birds design.
https://www.facebook.com/DanjiDesigns/photos/pcb.1073904005979351/1073903919312693/?type=3&theater

Beauty, by Zecca

Zecca's new Beauty Bird is lovely and the saying is quite inspirational, too.
http://zecca.net/needlepoint/new-canvases/

Deco Detective, from Eleanor Grosch

Unlike any of the other pieces, my last favorite treats are not straight from nature but are people--here's Eleanor Grosch's "The Deco Detective, " straight from the Golden Age of British detective stories.
http://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/product/deco-detective/

Lani's Lady with Peonies

And here is one of Lani's new Asian ladies.  They are stunners!
https://www.facebook.com/176661899060777/photos/pcb.1182714185122205/1182704798456477/?type=3&theater

Carolyn Hedge Baird says she noticed a lot of donkey canvases and lots of dogs in clothes when I asked her what trends she noticed at Destination Dallas.  What trends did you notice and what were your favorites?

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.

Stitches for Animals

In August Mary Legallet treatied us to stitches and threads for animals.   Some will even work for insects.  (Are bugs animals?)
http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/8/3/nothing-like-a-fur-coat-in-august

http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/8/7/a-menagerie

http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/8/10/spread-your-wings-and-fly

http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/8/17/oui-oui-oui

http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/8/21/fish-sticks

http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/8/24/wheeeeee

http://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2016/8/31/it-takes-a-village

By the way, Donna has a great fur stitch, too.  So I thought I'd include it here.
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2016/08/interlocking-gobelin.html

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

The Perpetual Calendar (Love You More)

The most unusual thing I saw in all the new Destination Dallas treats coming out this fall was this perpetual calendar set from Love You More.  Use the side arrows to see more months.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1278896182162458&set=pcb.1278896962162380&type=3&theater

The double frames can be hung with the stitching on top, bottom or to the side, depending on your home's wall space layout.  Four colored mats come with the frame, plus there are a set of twelve calendar sheets (more will be released in following years), and twelve canvases, each with a stitch guide.  If you are an obsessed stitcher who is running out of places to display your work, this might be just the thing.  It would also be a stunning wedding or house-warming present, particularly if the recipient stitches.

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

BB Needlepoint Ruches Kreinik Ribbon

Sally Baer of BB Needlepoint demonstrated how to ruche Kreinik ribbon (she used the holographic gold) to make flower centers for a stocking from her line.  Doesn't get any easier or prettier than this!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/1109787585765065/

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

Karen Wins the Smart Cookie Award

Karen C. just posted on Facebook that her newest storage option for her needle magnets is a large metal letter she found at Michael's.  I didn't see these on the Michael's website but Hobby Lobby has them in several styles and finishes.
http://www.hobbylobby.com/Home-Decor-Frames/Mirrors-Wall-Decor/Wall-Art/A-Large-Galvanized-Metal-Letter/p/138537

Take a magnet with you to test whether the metal letter you like is magnetic and to see how the size works with the letter, plus check to see whether it will stand on a table or desk or hang on a wall.

Very clever, Karen!

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

Zecca's "Coloring Book" Canvases

Coloring Book #2 "Create" from Zecca

One of the most interesting new design trends from Destination Dallas is Zecca's series of black and white line drawing canvases called their "Coloring Book" series.  Each canvas comes with a paper version of the design so stitchers can figure out their preferred color scheme before they start to stitch the design.
http://zecca.net/needlepoint/new-canvases/

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

Perfect Basketweave: A Lesson from Susan Portra

Susan Porta has a lovely lesson on the best way to make tent stitches, particularly basketweave, on her website.   Words of wisdom from a master stitcher!
http://www.susanportra.com/catalog/item/8767033/9850193.htm

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

Jolly Red Has a Blog—Hurrah! UPDATED

The English tapestry designer Jolly Red has a blog now.  It seems to talk a lot of the issues that come up with new designs and how to finish needlepoint.  Jolly Red does finishing of their own and other designers' work, which is important to know if you are in the UK and looking for a finisher.
http://jollyredstitches.blogspot.co.uk

UPDATE:  Needlepoint for Fun has written a brief profile of Jolly Red and its founder.
http://www.icontact-archive.com/3sPNpcHW2d6IBVeY4CRghF7XjspGUoa9?w=4

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

The Red Bitch has a Background

Pat has come up with a stylish and pretty background for her red and white Bitch canvas.
https://needleartnut.blogspot.com/2016/09/a-decision-made.html

Love the irony!

UPDATE:  Here is Pat's finished version.
https://needleartnut.blogspot.com/2017/03/profanity-is-finished.html


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

Canvas in a Box

Sue explains how to insert a needlepoint canvas into a box lid, starting with the choice of box and canvas, and ended up with the prefect present.
https://sudukc.wordpress.com/2016/06/29/lighthouse-in-a-box/

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

Breaking News: Jolly Red Has a New Website UPDATED

Jolly Red, the fun British tapestry kit company, has a new website! 
https://www.jollyred.co.uk

If you do a little exploring you'll see that Jolly Red is a traditional tapestry company, which means printed canvases kitted out with tapestry wool.  However, they have started selling canvases only, which is great for those of us who have enough leftover thread to start a shop of our own.  They also offer frames and magnets, just in case you need some supplies beyond their designs and want to order everything at once.  They also will make up your designs for you into pillows or stockings and an occasional tea cozy or tote bag.

UPDATE:  Needlepoint for Fun has written a brief profile of Jolly Red and its founder.
http://www.icontact-archive.com/3sPNpcHW2d6IBVeY4CRghF7XjspGUoa9?w=4

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

Finca Perle Cotton Sources UPDATED

Perle Cottons and Cotton Flosses for Bitch

I've gotten my threads together to stitch Bitch.  As you can see I have perle cotton from Finca and cotton floss skeins from DMC.  The colors are not all good matches to the lettering, but I am hoping to mix and match shades of lavender and lilac on the design.  The Finca perle cotton colors and sizes are (top to bottom):  2720 (size 16), 2711 (size 16), 2699 (size 8), and 2687 (size 12).  The DMC cotton flosses are (left to right):  240, 210 and 211.  In person the best match to the lilac paint on the painted canvas is the Finca 2699.

For those who aren't familiar with Finca perle cotton, it is Egyptian cotton from Prescencia SA in Spain that is available in five sizes-- 3, 5, 8, 12 and 16.  (The larger the number, the smaller the diameter of the thread).  Currently there are 122 solid colors and 33 variegated color sets for the perle.  Finca's Mouline Embroidery Floss is available in the same colors if you need a combination of perle and floss style threads.  Note that Mouline Embroidery Floss has over 300 colors, though.  So not every floss is available as perle cotton.   This thread is distributed in the USA by Colonial Needle.
http://colonialneedle.com/Perle-Cotton/

Although you can order straight from the Colonial Needle website, quite a few shops carry Finca perles.  Among the shops stocking Finca needlepointers are familiar with are Amy's Golden Strand, Come to the Point, KC Needlepoint, Needle in a Haystack (the one in Alameda, California) and Needlepoint Land.  Here are their websites (in alpha order).  If you know of other shops that carry Finca perle cottons, please let me know so I can add the shop to this listing.
http://www.amybunger.com/home.html

http://www.cometothepoint.com

https://www.kcneedlepoint.com

http://www.needlestack.com

https://needlepoint.land

Many thanks to the King of Threadaholics--Michael Boren--for help assembling the shop list above.  And now, I need to start thinking background and embellishments....

UPDATE:  Blog's readers have come up with additional good sources for Finca's perle cottons and flosses (and their metallics and more).  If you are Canadian, Erica says you can stock up using Sew Fancy.
http://www.sewfancy.com/threads-finca.htm

If you live close to Northern Virginia, Sara Leigh recommends a visit to Web Fabrics.  They carry all the colors of size 8 and 12 Finca perle cottons and she says their Cosmo embroidery floss is really silky and comes in 422 colors.
http://www.webfabrics.net/cgi-bin/Store/store.cgi?.s0&lastmenu=&menu=submenu-1100.html

Kathleen says Silk Road Needle Arts carries Finca. too.
http://www.silkroadneedle.com

Thanks folks!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 31, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Beautiful Thread Winders

Hands Across the Sea Samplers showed off some lovely antique thread winders on their Wordless Wednesday blog posting this week.  I think they are all 19th Century, although I am no expert. 
https://hands-across-the-sea-samplers.com/wordless-wednesday-15/

Thread winders are used more in cross stitch than needlepoint as far as I can tell from my stitching friends, but lovely tools are lovely tools, no matter how (or when) you stitch.  This little article about historical stitching tools is quite interesting.
http://wkneedle.bayrose.org/Articles/period_workbox.html

I found both modern and antique ones for sale on Etsy.
https://www.etsy.com/market/thread_winders

Enjoy dreaming of the perfect thread winder for your favorite silk....

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

Can Do Hairdos: A Review

A Peek Inside Can Do Hairdos

Sandy Arthur, who along with Tony Minieri is the busiest professional stitcher I know, has managed to turn out a wonderful new book among all the cyber-classes,  real life teaching and stitch guides and models she creates.  It's called Can Do Hairdos:  Techniques, Threads and Stitches for Hair.  The book became available September 1st and Sandy sent me a copy for review purposes.

It's quite small--about 5 inches wide and a bit over 8 inches tall--so it'll fit in your stitching bag or suitcase nicely.  The booklet is spiral bound with heavier cardboard front and back covers that are covered with a plastic coating for durability.  Seven types of hairdos are covered:  Braids, Buns, Curls, Curly, Straight, Wavy and Whimsical.  Some hair styles have only one recommended stitch, some have many.  There are 33 pages inside, including the cover page which has the index inside it and the back page which includes a little biography of the author on the inside side.

There are usually several examples of each hairdo type covered.  For example, Braids are represented by pigtails or pony tails and the "European Roll, " which is those Princess Leia braids over each ear.  Each stitch has photographs and/or diagrams to illustrate how each is stitched and Sandy recommends the type of thread that works very well for each hair style in most cases.  For example, Curls can be created with perle cottons, Mandarin Floss, or silks.  Sandy shows you how to make Braids with four small photographs and clear instructions.  Dreadlocks are demonstrated with two diagrams and a photograph of a finished set of dreadlocks. Sandy says single stranded threads like Pepperpot Silk work nicely for those, by the way.  She also tells you where to start stitching each type of hair.  That's always a puzzle for me.  Very often I try starting at the nape of the neck or the part, only to have to rip out and try again because I can tell it's not working to start there.

Is this book for everyone?  Well, no.  Obviously if you don't like stitching people or you specialize in counted canvaswork, you don't need a book like this, but if you stitch many Santas or Princesses or Old Ladies or Geishas--I do and have stitched a lot of people over the years--you'll want this book.  I'm not an amateur at creating hair, but Sandy still managed to come up with seventeen different ways of creating hair that I've never considered or even seen stitched elsewhere.  Having this book is going to allow me to up my game with more styles and techniques than I ever dreamed of!  I really hated for the book to end when I read through it cover-to-cover.

This little book is jam-packed with interesting ideas.  The diagrams are clear and the little photos inspirational.  If you are tempted, you can pick up a copy by ordering from Sandy's Duo Designs website.
http://duodesignsinc.com/wpsite/can-do-hairdos-by-sandy-arthur

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

This Needle's 50,000 Years Old

I thought folks interested in our stitching ancestors would enjoy reading about this archaeological find--a fifty thousand year old needle.  The eye looks like a cross between the round eyes of a traditional Japanese needle and the punched-out ovals of modern needles.
https://hands-across-the-sea-samplers.com/50000-year-old-needle/

Wonder what thread floated in that eye all those years ago?

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

Twisty Stitches Two: A Review

Twisty Stitches Volume Two Cover

Those of you who read Blog daily know that I gave Twisty Stitches Volume One:  Amadeus through Jessica a rave review.  (If you aren't a regular reader, here's the link to the review of the first volume.)
https://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2016/07/twisty-stitches-review.html

UPDATE:  Sorry the link was wrong!

And now Carole and Michael have followed up with a second volume on string art stitches covering the Mistake Stitch to the Walento.  Go buy this book.  It's like nothing else available.  The only people who don't need this book are those who only do basketweave.  Everyone else, whether you do a lot of counted canvaswork or specialize in painted canvases, can benefit from Michael's and Carole's help.  After all, everyone needs to do these 3-D type stitches occasionally and some of us use them all the time.  Since they aren't done in just a step or two, they can be difficult to understand and when you go wrong, it's hard to figure out why.  Twisty Two, just like the first volume, makes how they are constructed easy to understand and helps you see how to create variations on the basic stitch.  String art stitches without pain?  The ghost of Jean Hilton (the designer who made string art stitches needlepoint) approves this book!

Now for the fine print.  Just like volume one, this is a spiral-bound book with heavy plastic covers.   Twisty Two is 52 pages long (including the cover page, a one page bibliography, and a color page showing off the various stitches) and covers seven stitches:  Mistake Stitch, Plaited Rays, Rhodes Stitch, Sheaf Stitch, Sprats Head, Waffle Stitch and Walento.  Why is a book about seven stitches so long, you ask?  Because each stitch is diagrammed step-by-step with a little color thumbnail photo for each step.  They even include a photo of what the reverse side of a stitch looks like.  There's a general introduction with tips that apply to all these type stitches but each stitch section has tips to help you with that stitch in particular.  Plus Carole and Michael diagram stitch variations for each of the Main Seven Stitches.

Sheaf Stitch Diagram and Thumbnail Photos from Twisty Two

I choose Sheaf Stitch at random to show you how the diagramming of the main stitch looks.  (Click on the thumbnail for a better view.)  The actual examples are stitched with red, green, blue or pink threads, which means folks with a vision problem can probably still see them ok.

More Diagrams Showing Variations of Sheaf Stitch

The variations for each of the seven stitches have their own little diagram and a color photo to show how they look stitched.  There are twenty variations of Sheaf Stitch, each with a little diagram and photo, for example.  Four of the variations are shown above.

Both volumes are Must Haves for the serious needlepointer, even if you only use them as reference material a few times a year.  If they are a little pricey for you, see if your local shop or guild chapter will buy both volumes for everyone to share, or go in with a group of stitching friends.  Trust me, you are going to be glad you have access to these great books!

Now, how do I stitch an Airy Rhodes again...?

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.

Mary Agnes Goes to Dallas

Mary Agnes of Needle Nicely explains a bit about the upcoming Destination Dallas show and what she'll do while she is there.   Wish we were all going!
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2016/08/destination-dallas-classes_51.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.

Kaffe Fasset Interviews UPDATED

Hands Across the Sea posted two interview videos featuring Kaffe Fasset.    Stop and listen to them.  Then listen to them again and again.
https://hands-across-the-sea-samplers.com/interview-kaffe-fassett/

It's that interesting.  He is a master of color and pattern, which you can see here...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MSyUkyYA-mA

...or in his needlepoint kits on the Ehrman website.
http://www.ehrmantapestry.com/designer-products.aspx?id=7057648f-50e0-45e0-baab-cd506d20efb5

If you are charmed, there are many short videos on his website.
http://www.kaffefassett.com/Videos.html

There are DVDs available, too.
http://www.kaffefassett.com/DVDs.html

UPDATE:  There's a new book coming out from Kaffe Fassett in mid-September.  It's called
Bold Blooms and it features 18 quilt and 7 needlepoint patterns.  I can't wait to see it!
http://www.kaffefassett.com/Books.html

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

Breaking News: Silk Road Fibers has a Website

Look! There's a new website for Silk Road Fibers! If you want to see the Straw Silk colors now available in this interesting cross between ribbon and thread, now you can browse to your heart's content.
http://silkroadfiber.com

The newest colors are shown on the home page.

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

EGA's National Tapestry in Video

EGA's Kalamazoo Chapter has posted two videos of EGA's National Tapestry on YouTube.  Here are all five panels with something of their history.  The second link shows all the panels one at a time.  Click on the next panel number on the right side when you want to move on.
https://www.egausa.org/index.php/resources/national-tapestry-project

https://www.egausa.org/index.php/panel-1

Normally this is on display at EGA's national headquarters but it went on tour and some of the chapter members took close up videos of it.  Enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2IWy84A6H0&feature=youtu.be

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxC7cL0n1jk&feature=youtu.be

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.

Louise's Loves Beads (and Charley Harper)

The latest newsletter from Louise's Needlework has a wonderful article about using beads as threads on a Charley Harper canvas.  The leaves are all beads while the background uses beads as an integral part of the background stitch.  There are beads elsewhere, too!
https://gallery.mailchimp.com/5b0dca8665a4071261e07270b/files/news_blast_august_2016_final.pdf

Great ideas!

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

Breaking News: Designers Desk is Moving

Designers Desk is relocating and downsizing. Check out the bargains!
http://files.constantcontact.com/68b0d50b001/62cedfda-5b0a-42c3-b1e3-36b089ada05f.pdf

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

Another Bitch

Apparently I'm not the only stitcher who has lost her mind (I'm quoting Beloved here) and is stitching Bloomin' Stitches' Bitch canvas.  The Needleart Nut has the same canvas but featuring sparkling red lettering on a white canvas.  You can see that she plans to use red Silk Lame Braid on hers.
http://needleartnut.blogspot.com/2016/09/sense-of-humor-please.html

I'll keep you updated on her progress.  Already we are facing some of the same issues--what background color and stitch to use, for example.  Stay tuned!

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

A Little Stumpwork Padding

Anna Scott is starting to create a new embroidery design and talks about how she is going to build the central figure using stumpwork techniques on this blog entry.
http://annascottembroidery.blogspot.com/2016/08/body-building-drifting-on-breeze-wip.html

Now he's got socks and some pant legs.
http://annascottembroidery.blogspot.com/2016/08/dressing-drifting-on-breeze-wip.html

Now he's got a head and a scarf and some of his jacket is in place, too.
http://annascottembroidery.blogspot.com/2016/10/wip-drifting-on-breeze.html

We have a full jacket and clouds!
http://annascottembroidery.blogspot.com/2016/11/drifting-in-breeze-wip.html

Anna finishes off the scarf and gives her floating man a face--and a hat!
http://annascottembroidery.blogspot.com/2017/01/drifting-on-breeze.html

Many of the tips and techniques she uses are applicable to needlepoint that incorporates stumpwork.  And besides, it's just durn interesting!

I'll update this as Anna makes progress on Drifting on the Breeze.

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

Breaking News: The Canvasback Has a New Owner UPDATED

The Canvasback has a new owner!  Here's the announcement.  The old team is still in place, though.
http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/231508/18ec7a4069/435000056/691b83b1ea/

UPDATE:  More about the transition to new ownership.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/winnetka/news/ct-wtk-canvasback-transition-tl-1013-20161011-story.html

Congratulations to Sally and Eilene and here's to many more happy stitching years!  If you don't happen to live near Northfield, you can always visit the shop website.
http://www.canvasback-needlepoint.com

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

Introducing Bitch

My latest, courtesy of Bloomin' Stitches

Today I thought I'd show off my next project--Bitch, an exclusive canvas from Bloomin' Stitches.  This is in stock in the black on cream version, but the purple on cream (or any other version you want--the Needleart Nut owns this in red on white) is available if you don't mind waiting for Bloomin' Stitches to have it painted for you.
http://www.bloominstitches.com/#!bloomin-stitches-exclusive-canvases/c1hcs

This design is 8 inches square on 18 count canvas but with all the blank margin around the outside it's on 12 inch stretcher bars.  By the way, the cream background has a touch of gold sparkle in it that adds a bit of elegance to the overall design if you choose an open stitch for the background.

This canvas was a gift from a dear friend and has been claimed by a relative of mine who thinks it is hilarious.  Tasteful?  Well, no, but sometimes one has to run wild and how better to do that than in needlepoint?  I'll have it finished as a pillow with a monogram or something on the back so that the eventual owner can show off this side of her personality or not as she chooses, just by flipping the pillow over.  The tread toward "cheeky" needlepoint is explained here.
http://www.theglampad.com/2016/08/cheeky-needlepoint.html

This also is a great item to blog-stitch because the background is a totally blank slate and the lettering varies in width so much.  I'll be able to explore all sorts of ways to create lettering.  I hope you enjoy watching me figure out how best to stitch this (and how to hide it from my husband so I don't have to wash my mouth out with soap).

I've already gotten threads together for this, but that's another posting.

Stay tuned for another Chilly Hollow Needlepoint (blog-stitching) Adventure!

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

Carole King's "Tapestry"

Fans of Carole King's music will be amazed to hear that her album "Tapestry" got its title from the needlepoint she was working at the time.
http://www.whosay.com/status/caroleking/362948

Here is a peak inside the album cover.
http://clearanceman.com/2010/11/lp-vinyl-33-13-carole-king-tapestry/

Many of the songs on the album are classics of the period.  Have fun listening and stitching along!
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLG0W27j3Wle3UPTQfPJeys9K2h5q0gUJQ

(Many thanks to the lady who posted the first link above on Facebook.)

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

Coffee (and Tea) with Friends

Jolly Red is participating in a cancer fund raiser in England run by McMillian called World's Biggest Coffee Morning.  They are relatively rural so they have created a new design called "Coffee with Friends, " a portion of the sales of which go to McMillian's charity.
http://us11.campaign-archive1.com/?u=8fb98c6ab19b27ac2364ed243&id=0dffc9f7a9&e=017cfa488f

Here's a better look at Coffee with Friends. You can buy this as a standalone canvas or kitted with wool threads.  A portion of either sale goes to fight cancer.
http://www.jollyred.co.uk/coffee-with-friends-1701-p.asp

Here is last year's fund raiser.  I am not certain it's available any more as it doesn't seem to be listed on the Jolly Red website.
http://jollyredstitches.blogspot.com/2014/07/mugs-and-hugs-for-macmillan.html

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

Happy Birthday from Ann-Marie of Beautiful Stitches

Ann-Marie of Beautiful Stitches has just had a birthday and what does she do?  She gives US a present!  In case you didn't know, Ann-Marie is a teacher and designer of counted pieces from Western Australia.
http://beautifulstitches.com.au/another-year-another-birthday/

Yes, she's published a free chart of her lovely "Autumn Fireworks" for you to download as a PDF file.
http://www.beautifulstitches.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/Autumn%20Fireworks%20Downloads/Beautiful%20Stitches%20-%20Autumn%20Fireworks.pdf

Then you can run wild in your stash, pulling an overdye and three other solid threads that use (or compliment) the overdye's colors.  Counted canvas workers everywhere are rejoicing!

Happy birthday, Ann-Marie!  Thanks.

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

An Elegy for Stitcherie

We lost something special last week when Stitcherie disappeared without notice from the Internet.  I noticed a week ago that the site was down for maintenance but it seems to have disappeared entirely now.
http://stitcherie.ning.com

Those who participated in the Stitcherie games had a great deal of fun.  Those who just posted photographs of their wonderful needlepoint and enjoyed the stitching of other members have lost something interesting.

But nothing stays the same and on the Internet, interest is fleeting.  I can see the allure of writing blogs has waned.  There are a lot of blogs on my blog list that are defunct now.  The hot place to be these days is Facebook, but designers and shops are starting to post on Instagram and Pinterest.

Will I start to follow things on Instagram or Pinterest?  No.  I have a limited time at my disposal.  I just don't have the time to keep up with other sites these days.

Still, I am sorry to see Stitcherie go.  It was fun while it lasted!

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

Mary Agnes is Going to Destination Dallas

You've love hearing about her travel plans and checking out her very clever box handle.  I bet all the shops will want this!
https://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2016/07/another-needlepoint-market.html?showComment=1468459043843#c5713648034546301783

I love hearing behind-the-scenes stories like this.  Regular stitchers have no idea all the work or expense involved in a shop owner going to the trade shows.

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.

How to Stitch a Birthday Plaid

Needle Works in Austin stitched birthday plaid frame weights for a recent class and share the instructions on their blog.
http://www.stitchinginthetexashillcountry.com/the_needle_works/2016/07/end-of-july-already.html

The Scrabble letters are optional but most big crafts stores have buttons with letters on them if you don't want to buy Scrabble tiles on eBay or Etsy.

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.

Patti Mann's Wooden Turtles

While lusting after all Pocket Full of Stitches' sale canvases I spotted something totally unique--Patti Mann's wooden turtle bases for her canvases.   The listings are alphabetical by designer name, so scroll down until you find Patti Mann.  The set comes with four triangular shaped canvases that are stitched and then make a dome over the turtle base.  Neat!  And totally different.  
http://pocketfullofstitches.blogspot.com/2016/07/christmas-in-july-christmas-larger-misc.html

I had a lot of fun browsing Patti's website but I don't see any designs with turtle bases.    This must be brand new but your favorite shop can find out if she has other designs for the base so you can change the turtle's "shell" for each season.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 31, 2016 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Another Winner, Another Book

Sandy Arthur has had a busy week! She's teaching at ANG's Seminar in New Orleans AND she just published a new booklet on stitching hair!
http://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2016/09/mercy-ang-seminar-come-and-gone-what.html

AND she just won ANG's Literary Award.  For the second time.  I am seriously impressed.  

Can Do Hairdos became available September 1st.  Sandy's been teaching a class on threads, stitches and techniques for stitching hair for a while now.  You can read the class description at the bottom of this class page on her website to get an idea of what's in the book.
http://duodesignsinc.com/wpsite/f2f-needlepoint-classes-with-sandy-arthur

Amy Bunger is already taking orders for Sandy's book through her online shop and Facebook.  She says the book is 32 pages and is small enough at 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 to carry in your project bag or tote.
https://www.facebook.com/189965167681135/photos/a.195572410453744.51323.189965167681135/1329810953696545/?type=3&theater

If your favorite shop isn't carrying this you can order directly from Sandy's Duo Designs website once she's home again from New Orleans.  It's not available just yet--Sandy has to get home, unpack, do laundry and then she will update the website.  Stay tuned!
http://duodesignsinc.com/wpsite/

Congratulations on the award, Sandy.  Can I have your autograph?

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

Santa Fe Felines: A New Mystery with a Twist UPDATED

Ruth Schmuff has announced hew upcoming Mystery with a Twist class--Laurel Burch's Santa Fe Cats.  The mystery with a twist is one of Ruth's mystery classes, but it is stretched out over a year or two so there's no pressure to finish. I'll update the links directly below as Ruth posts progress photos.  Even if you are not taking this mystery class, the progress reports are always interesting.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/09/santa-fe-felines.html

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2016/12/santa-fe-felines_28.html

http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2018/01/cats-cats-and-more-cats.html

https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2019/06/meow/

https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2021/05/soon-ish/

Here's more about the class on Ruth's website.
http://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/product/santa-fe-felines/

Here are all Ruth's Mysteries with a Twist.
http://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/classes/mystery-classes/mysteries-with-a-twist/

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

Doug's Summer Vacation

Doug Kreinik and his wife did a tour up the East Coast of the United States to North Carolina, visiting with shops as they went and eating all the local goodies they could find. It sounds like a blast!
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2016/07/dougs-great-key-west-summer-adventure.html

Doug listed the shop websites he visited so you could do a little tour of your own, minus the great food.  Have fun!

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

Adding Twirls to Your Painted Canvas

The latest newsletter from Needlepoint For Fun features two "swirl" stitches to add movement to areas of your painted canvas.  One stitch points right and the other left; one is larger than the other.  So you'll have to consider how much space you have for the stitch to develop (the rule of thumb is that you need room for at least three repeats) and whether your canvas area is slanting left or right before using one of these.
http://www.needlepoint-for-fun.com/needlepoint-swirl-stitch.htm

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

Pin Friends from Accoutrement Designs

I just realized Accoutrement Designs has introduced a new item called a Pin Friend in 2016. This is a magnet pair with a hole through the middle so you can add a jewelry pin to the magnet and either wear it without creating a hole in your clothing or as a needle minder on your canvas.  Clever!  You can see it in action at the bottom of this page.
http://fobfriends.blogspot.com/p/2016-new-items.html

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