BREAKING NEWS: Houston Area Shops Reporting In

The needlepoint shops in Houston and the surrounding area are starting to report in via Facebook about their status after Hurricane Harvey.   I'll update this as more shop owners manage to get to their business premises and see what happened.  Note that most of my information came informally from Needlepoint Nation on Facebook, so call before you try and visit a shop.

UPDATE:  Kreinik posted information about closings here.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2017/08/needlework-shops-in-houston.html

ABC Stitch and Stitch Therapy - Shop is ok.  They plan to reopen Friday, 9/1.

Bela's Needleworks - No word on this Edinburg shop.

Chandail - Everyone is fine but the shop phones are down now (8/30).  They are moving to a new location shortly.

Chaparral says the shop's ok but they will definitely be closed on Tuesday, 8/29.  They will open on Wednesday, 8/30.

Judy's Stitching Nook - was spared the worst per Kreinik

Needle House - Shop is fine and reopened today, 8/30.  They report that none of the finishing was damaged (they have checked with all their finishers) but they are a little short-staffed so please bear with them as they try to get back to normal.

Nimble Fingers - Shop is fine but owner had to evacuate her home.  The shop is closed until further notice.

We've heard that Past Times has sustained damage.

Spinning Wheel (finishers) - They are fine with all the finishing safe although some employees are stuck in place.

Stitches in Time - Shop is fine, but I don't know if it is open.  Call first.

UPDATE #2: This article mentioned by the Needlework Retailer explains why we make things—and save them in a flood.
http://www.patheos.com/blogs/eidos/2017/08/what-you-save-in-a-flood/

UPDATE #3:  What's the Point? in Ohio is selling a Texas Proud ornament with 100% of the $25 cost going to the charity of your choice.  This opportunity ends 9/15/17.
https://www.facebook.com/dublinohio2007/

UPDATE #4:  Alex Paras' Stitch for a Cause this month is for the Red Cross' Hurricane Harvey Disaster Relief.
http://store.apneedlearts.com/stitchforcause.html

UPDATE #5:  Kangaroo Paw Designs has a new Texas Proud croakie design.  Sales of this through September will be donated to the Red Cross and earmarked for Hurricane Harvey recovery efforts.
https://www.facebook.com/KangarooPawDesignsNeedlepoint/photos/a.172650579567047.1073741839.172598536238918/858912570940841/?type=3&theater

UPDATE #6:  All proceeds from Nenah Stone's new Animal Angels will go to Austin Pets Alive, an animal rescue organization.
https://www.facebook.com/220431741403372/photos/pcb.1392481530865048/1392476600865541/?type=3

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 28, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wollworks Has a New Website

Wollworks, a website that specializes in recycling old needlepoint into lovely pillows and pumpkin poofs, is moving to a new website.
https://www.smwollmandesigns.com

This is particularly important if you are interested in their annual heirloom pumpkin harvest, which starts September 1 this year—and ends November 18.  Every couple of days during the "harvest," more recycled needlepoints made into pumpkin shapes are released for sale.  It's an annual event and much enjoyed by fans of recycled stitching.
https://www.smwollmandesigns.com/collections/heirloom-needlepoint-pumpkins-tm

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 2, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The First Moon Landing Needs a Home

Thanks to Needlepoint Now's posting the link on Facebook, I can share this fascinating story of a Canadian woman's huge needlepoint of man's first landing on the moon.
http://www.westerlynews.ca/community/port-alberni-needlepoint-artist-shooting-for-the-moon/

If you know of a good home….

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 31, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Spider is a Pirate (Boo! A Mystery Class) UPDATED

Ruth Schmuff has just revealed the Halloween mystery class at Bedecked and Beadazzled—it's "Boo!" by David Galchuftt an artist that Ruth distributes on needlepoint canvas.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2017/07/what-shall-we-stitch-for-halloween.html

There's a skeleton in a witch's hat and cape, a spider in a pirate's hat and a pumpkin—who sadly has no hat at all.  There's also tons of candy corn (a must for MY Halloween!) in the side borders.  You can visit Ruth's premises for the class if you sign up quickly but of course Ruth will ship lessons to you if you don't happen to live in the Baltimore area.

Such fun!  I'll update this as Ruth posts class information and lessons.

UPDATE:  First, Ruth creates candy corn from beads.  Halloween isn't Halloween without my favorite candy corn!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2017/08/want-some-candy.html

UPDATE:  Now Ruth has worked on the skull. He glows in the dark!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2017/09/skully.html

He really does glow!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2017/10/boo.html

UPDATE:  The skeleton has a great hat and a lovely glowing purple background.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2017/09/a-fashionable-fellow.html

UPDATE:  Ruth concentrates on the eyes and creates bony hands and a pumpkin on a stick.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2017/10/zombie-eyes.html

FINAL UPDATE:  Ruth stitches the spider in his pirate outfit, clutching a candy corn!  Don't miss the instructional videoes Ruth has added.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2017/11/pirate-spider.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 28, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Neon Rays—Tamed and Explained

Enriched Stitch profiles Rainbow Gallery's Neon Rays in this fun article. Want to know how to tame it? Want to know how to get the creases out? Want to know how to secure it so it doesn't wiggle free on the back? Suzie's got you covered!
http://astheneedleturns.com/thread-thursday-neon-rays/

Here is the color card for Neon Rays on the Rainbow Gallery website.  Have fun exploring all the pretty colors!
http://www.rainbowgallery.com/product/neon-rays/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 24, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Threads—A Needle Necessity Reissued - UPDATE

Ruth Schmuff just announced that Threads—A Needle Necessity has been updated! Copies will arrive from the printers shortly but you can pre-order yours now at a slight discount.
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2017/08/pre-order-fun.html

If you want to know about all the various threads that are available without having to visit every shop in California and Texas and along the East Coast, this is the book for you!  (I know it would be more fun to visit all the shops, but really, who has time with work, family responsibilities and all the housekeeping chores?!)

UPDATE:  Just heard from the authors who added this information—

"Thought you might enjoy reading a little information about our new book Threads: A Needle Necessity 2nd Edition that doubles the number of threads described in our first book. We are delighted to introduce stitchers to some incredibly beautiful silks, classic wools, contemporary blends, glittering metallics and other irresistible fibers that are stirring the imaginations of thread lovers everywhere.Amazing artists are producing imaginative painted canvases which has stimulated the production of beautiful threads specifically for needlepoint and all the needle arts from embroidery to the creation of temari designs.

Our tips section is full of information like: Do I stitch white thread or black thread first, how do I handle fuzzy, metallic, silk or variegated/overdyed threads?

Use this book as a guideline to develop an individual stitching style. Experiment with an array of threads to reveal the beauty of the painted canvas, look for thread alternatives, then stitch with confidence and imagination. 

The laminated quick-reference guide is great to take along while thread shopping to answer questions in a flash.

May your stitching journey-of-discovery never end,"
Jane Evans and Liv Weiss"
Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 26, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Amanda Lawford is Retiring UPDATED

Suzie at The Enriched Stitch just got work that Amanda Lawford is retiring.
http://astheneedleturns.com/breaking-news-amanda-lawford-is-retiring/

Follow the link to Amanda's website to see her lovely work while you can.

UPDATE:  Amanda's son Derek (DC Designs) is also retiring.  But they will be at the Dallas show with new items and will be delivering orders through December, 2017.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 26, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Mythic Crafts Has a New Website—And New Products! UPDATED

Mythic Crafts, the Canadian family business that turns out gorgeous slate frames, has a new website.  
https://mythiccrafts.com

And they have new products!  They are now making legs for their slate frames so that folks who need a raised frame can have one by the addition of these little legs.  They are available in two lengths.  Here is what their blog says about these "beading/couture legs."
https://mythiccrafts.com/blogs/news/a-journey-to-new-beading-couture-legs-for-slate-frames

They also are turning out very pretty wooden needle minders.  The frog caught my eye, but they are all wonderful.  These are available painted or unpainted, depending on what your personal style is.  Don't see one that appeals to you?  Don't worry.  They are making a new design every day for the rest of the year so there is bound to be a needle minder with your name on it eventually.
https://mythiccrafts.com/collections/needleminders

In the planning stages but out soon are presentation boxes and eventually trestle stands for their slate frames.  And of course they will still make a custom sized slate frame for your stitching pleasure if the standard sizes they make aren't right for you.  Aren't sure what size slate frame you need?  Read their sizing page for help and then contact Mark if you need even more assistance.
https://mythiccrafts.com/pages/selecting-the-right-size-of-slate-frame-for-your-project

Their Etsy site is still active if you prefer purchasing from there.  Right now only the slate frames are available on the site.  Shop their website for everything else.
https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/MythicCraftsAB

UPDATE:  Mary Corbet reviews the new Mythic presentation boxes.
https://www.needlenthread.com/2017/09/beautiful-handcrafted-boxes-for-mounting-embroidery.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 25, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Visit BeStitched at Their Temporary Studio

BeStitched is seeking a permanent location but for now they have a temporary Studio.  Here's the announcement.

Remember, shops have to change to grow.  This is just a new iteration of all that fun!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 24, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Knotted Needle's Website is Up and Running

Knotted Needle's shopping site is ready for your viewing pleasure!
http://myemail.constantcontact.com/LAUNCHED---SHOP-ON-LINE.html?soid=1103691008257&aid=aWlJpRHXCrM

The shop is in Grosse Point Woods, Michigan, just in case you happen to be in the area and want to stop by.  Online shopping is great but a personal inspection visit is better!
https://www.knottedneedle.com/index.htm

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 23, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Gone Stitching's Finishing Photo Album

I just discovered that Gone Stitching has a Flickr photo album of all their finishing. What a resource!  There is even a video or two.  It's a wonderful browse and a great place for finishing ideas.  Settle down with your favorite beverage and do a little admiring, won't you?
https://www.flickr.com/photos/gonestitching/35377542754/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 28, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Tess and Thorn Break Up UPDATED

Tess and Thorn have announced their needlepoint design company has evolved into two different companies: Brooke Thorn McGowan is now thorn alexander while Tess Nagle is now Tess Kvale at Pewter and Pine Needlepoint Design.  I haven't found websites yet but it's early to have all that set up.

UPDATE:  Pewter and Pine Needlepoint Design has a Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/pewterandpine/

I wish both designers great success as they grown and change.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 22, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Simple Ornament Finishing

If you want to try simple ornament finishing for yourself, Needlepoint for Fun has just posted a tutorial that takes you through the process step by step.
http://www.needlepoint-for-fun.com/how-to-finish-a-needlepoint-ornament.htm

It's even interesting to read if you never plan to do any of your own finishing.  It helps you understand the ways a finisher does their magic to turn a piece of stitching into a completed object.  Of course this is just the basics.  Ornament finishing can be done without glue, finished flat, finished rounded like here, done with fancy trims or bows, or done with a boxed edge.  The possibilities are endless but this is a nice way to understand how it is done in a very basic fashion.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 28, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Needlepoint Fashion from Venus Williams

Although the print looks like cross stitch to me, it's still fun that Venus Williams' newest fashion line is called the Needlepoint Fashion Collection.
http://www.tennisidentity.com/2017/07/venus-williams-reveals-new-needlepoint-fashion-collection.html

Looks durn good on her, too!  If you are on the needlepoint tennis team, you can see more of the collection with the "needlepoint" floral patterns here.  Check out the backpack and tote!
http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/EleVen_Womens_Tennis_Apparel/catpage-WAELEVEN.html?=fromtenid

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 20, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A Summer Sale by Gay Ann Rogers

Today through Wednesday Gay Ann Rogers will have a small summer sale of some of her counted designs. It's small and won't last long, so make sure you don't miss out.
http://www.gayannrogers.com/coming-soon-summer-sale.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 19, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Gail Sirna's Mermaid Ornaments

Gail Sirna's website of her teaching and on-teaching pieces is always a fun browse.  She's added something I haven't noticed before—a gallery of her original mermaid designs she does for friends each year.  The bottom of the page has Gail's story about the ornaments and the top has the photos.  Click on the first mermaid, and then you can click on the next in the series using the link at this photo's bottom right corner.  Have fun dreaming about stitching your own mermaid!
http://www.gailsirna.com/non-teaching-pieces/mermaid-ornaments/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 27, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Fiber Talk Interviews the Designers Behind the Needle Arts Mystery Retreat

This weekend's Fiber Talk podcast interviews the four designers (Pat Hartman, Mary Knapp, Linda K. Reinmiller and Debbie Rowley) behind the Needle Arts Mystery Retreat.
http://wetalkfiber.com/2017/08/20/fiber-talk-with-the-needle-arts-mystery-retreat-designers/

Follow the links on the home page to visit the various designers' individual websites and to check out the Needle Arts Mystery Retreat itself.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 20, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Looks Like Needlepoint To Me

Thanks to the Needlework Retailer, I have a link to a photo of a "sampler" stitched by Charlotte Bronte.  
http://thelongvictorian.tumblr.com/post/163220626103/a-needlework-sampler-by-english-novelist-and-poet

Here is more about the Bronte Sisters' samplers.
http://kleurrijkbrontesisters.blogspot.com/2010/05/samplers-of-bronte-sisters.html

http://kleurrijkbrontesisters.blogspot.com/2011/02/what-would-bronte-sisters-sew.html

Actually, I doubt this needlepoint floral was actually stitched by Charlotte but I did find that it came from a collection that now belongs to Duke University.
https://www.eomega.org/article/baskin-feminist-library

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 26, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Basketweave Turkeywork

Michele at Bristly Thistle has a tip for those who hate turkeywork but need some on one of their canvases—stitch it the Susan Portra way.  Basically you just do basketweave but leave big loops on top of the canvas.  I suspect this works best in smaller areas as I can see holding a ton of loops out of the way would get difficult if you were doing this in a big space.  Of course you could use non-tacky tape to hold the loops out of the way.
https://www.bristlythistle.com/blog/2017/7/24/the-easiest-turkey-work-ever

If you loathe turkeywork, this is something to try.  Thanks, Susan, Sally and Michele!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 24, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Mandala Magnets

Fans of Eastern-themed designs will want to check out the Mandala magnets from Nancy Baha's Etsy shop.  The retro floral tile styles are lovely, but I can't take my eyes off the Mandalas!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/nancybaha?ref=l2-shop-info-name&section_id=21509286

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 23, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Computer Pixie Has a Frame

The Computer Pixie, Framed!

I finally got around to framing my Computer Pixie* by turning under the edges and adding a twisted cord I made from size 5 perle cotton, then attaching her with glue to the back of a shadow box frame I found on sale at Michael's.  She's off to the county fair to charm all the folks visiting the Needlework Exhibit.  She was a lot of fun, even though I went off the rails quite often when it came to following Sheena's fun stitch guide.  I do love stitching humorous canvases and people!

*Design by Ruth Schmuff, with a free Sheena James stitch guide.
https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/product/computer-pixie/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 14, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Twist and Select Needle Case

I absolutely adore my Twister, which is a lipstick-style magnetic needle storage case made by Pym.
http://www.needlepointtooltime.com/product/Twister

It holds all my current needles and keeps them safe when not in use.  Thanks to Brenda's Needlepoint Studio, I've discovered that Dritz has two different needle cases that are similar in style.
https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2017/07/needle-storage-tubes-72317.html

Here is what Brenda found and chose to use.  It appears to hold needles up to two and a quarter inches long, which means it might not hold the longest beading needles but it'll handle tapestry needles just fine.
https://www.createforless.com/Dritz-Needle-Storage-Tubes-3-pc/pid281784.aspx

After a little more hunting I found Dritz's larger lipstick-twist case.  It also is the same length.
https://www.createforless.com/Dritz-Needle-Case-Twist-N-Select-Storage-Tube/pid270102.aspx

Thanks, Brenda.  Options are always good as no one product suits every needlepointer.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 23, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

NAN's 2017 Winners

The National Academy of Needlearts has finally posted photographs of all the winners of their 2017 Exemplary on their website.  Click on each photo for a better look and a short summary of the piece.   If you have a Facebook account, you can see more photos at their NAN page.
https://needleart.org/assembly/2017-exemplary-ribbon-winners/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 18, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Want to Meet the Bad Bitches?

While wandering around the newly designed website for Old World Designs, I stumbled across a new designer, Bad Bitch Needlepoint.  
https://www.badbitchneedlepoint.com/about/

I thought you'd love to hear the story behind the designs and watch the portrait of Kate Moss being put on needlepoint canvas.  Here's the canvas that started my hunt for the company, by the way.
https://www.oldworlddesigns.com/shop/c/p/Take-Out-from-Bad-Bitch-Designs-x28315000.htm

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Smart Cookie Award for August Goes to Sue

Sue just posted a video on Facebook of how she stores cut skeins so that they don't make a mess and are easy to take one thread from.
https://www.facebook.com/sue.m.cimino/videos/10155551975157363/

Genius!  This clever idea and her kindness in sharing have won her the Smart Cookie Award this month.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 19, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The New Days of California

Old World Designs has added to their Days of California series of ornaments with a whole new set for 2017.  These exclusive designs are perfect souvenirs of a trip to the San Francisco area or a lovely gift for the California resident.  Fans of travel ornaments will want to check these out, particularly if you love Chinese themes.
https://www.oldworlddesigns.com/shop/Canvases/Series/Days-of-California--2017.htm

You can see the earlier ones in the set here.
https://www.oldworlddesigns.com/shop/Canvases/Series/Days-of-California.htm

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 19, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Melita Made the Cover!

One of Melita's award winning original designs has made the cover of the July 2017 Needle Pointers!  Congratulations!
https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2017/08/11/festive-fireworks-published-and-on-the-cover-of-needle-pointers-july-2017/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 11, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

BREAKING NEWS: Ruth Schmuff's Books Now Available on Android Devices

It's a good day for those who use mobile devices powered by Android systems—Ruth Schmuff's books are now available for both Android and Apple devices!
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2017/08

I like Ruth's books a lot and keep them on my Apple mobile devices for quick reference.  I highly recommend them.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 11, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Etsy Fun

I ran across two fun Etsy stores of interest to needlepointers this week, so I thought all my stitching friends might like to browse there, too.  First, Mountain Laurel Design has a new sampler full of Bargello stitches for download on their Etsy store.  If you aren't a counted canvas worker, don't worry—they sell elegant and charming beaded scissor fobs there also, plus there are a few needle minders. Don't miss the lamp work bead owl scissor fob!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MtnLaurelDesign/items

Speaking of needle minders, Designs by Lisa has a slew of cheerful and happy needle minders made from old Scrabble tiles.  There's something for every taste if you want a needle magnet unlike anyone else's.
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MixingItUpWithDBL/items?ref=pagination&section_id=14931933&page=1

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 17, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A Word to the Wise

The Stitch Style blog has a word to the wise about dye lots—and how to use the extra stitching to best effect. A matching key fob will be fab, won't it?
http://stitchstyleblog.com/2017/07/voila-needlepoint-shark-belt/

Does your dog hide your threads?  Mine don't, but I think they have people over when we aren't home.  I am constantly cleaning bathrooms here in Chilly Hollow!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 13, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Blog Housekeeping

I've been rearranging things at Blog this last few weeks, adding new tabs under the header title and sorting things a bit differently.   I've got sections for the three main trade shows each year so you can check out the latest designs, the Monthly Clubs section has been updated recently with the clubs starting this fall, I have a section now for Interviews I've done on Blog so you can read those if you missed them earlier, there is a section of Tutorials and Tips to help you with tricky stitches like bullions or to understand how to use a laying tool or what stitches to use for hair or skin, Needle Felting and Beading have their own separate tabs as does Needle Painting, there is a list of painted canvases I've Blog-Stitched so you can look at those to understand how I approach choosing my threads and stitches, plus information about Canvas Embellishment,  I've listed Counted Thread Designers and their websites (if any),  there are sections about highly recommended Shops including ones that cater to international stitchers and shops that have a large selection of counted charts, and sections that answer the most frequent questions I see online—Where to Donate Unwanted Stash, Where to Have Designs Put on Needlepoint Canvas and How to Paint Your Own Design.

Hopefully this will help you find useful information, especially since very few people use the search box at the upper left corner of Blog to find things.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 8, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The New (and Old) Painters Threads

Robin King is a big fan of ribbon floss as am I. This blog entry talks about YLI's ribbon floss types and how Painters Threads uses it for overdoing, then shows off the newest colors of Painters Threads ribbon floss.
http://needlepointstudyhall.blogspot.com/2017/07/new-pastel-painters-threads_9.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 9, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Twisted Stitcher Teaches Finishing

Vonna Pfieffer, also known as the Twisted Stitcher, has a blog that teaches finishing.
http://tts-learntofinish.blogspot.com

Some of her tutorials are on flat finished or puffy ornaments, some are for stand ups, there is a tutorial on how to make a bow, etc.  Not everything here applies to needlepoint since Vonna stitches cross stitch items on linens and similar fabrics, but this is still a great place to learn how to finish small pieces yourself.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 9, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Fiber Talk: Interviewing New Shop Owners UPDATED

Gary and Christine interview Melissa, the new owner of The Wool and the Floss and Kim of Sassy Jack's Stitchery about starting your own stitching shop.  Follow the links to the shop websites if you want to explore more.
http://wetalkfiber.com/2017/08/06/fiber-talk-with-melissa-macleod-and-kim-young/

UPDATE:  Donna visited Sassy Jack's during the EGA seminar in Asheville, NC.  Here's her mini review.
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2017/08/tuesday.html

If you are a little curious about Marnie Ritter--one of my stitching heroes!—visit her website.
http://www.mritter.com

And if you want to know more about Michael Boren—a fabulous guy and a fellow Threadaholic—check out his website.
http://www.stitchplay.com

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 7, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Display Challenge

Needlepoint For Fun Shows Off

Needlepoint for Fun just posted this image of a stitched piece they found at a local store and display in their powder room.  I grabbed the photo for those who can't view Facebook images.
https://www.facebook.com/125313707511380/photos/a.157371940972223.28096.125313707511380/1611108428931893/?type=3&theater

The shop challenges folks to post photos of their needlework on display, particularly if it is in an unusual or striking place.  Here is my entry—

Petei's Flying Angel

This is my Petei "Flying Angel" shown in my laundry room.  It's the only place in the house dark enough to take a photo of the lights that surround the angel.

Lights on!

Finishing by West Coast Finishing.  They did a superb job.  Ok, your turn.  Post your own unusual or striking setting for your needlepoint on Facebook, your blog, or send me a photo and I'll post it here.


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 9,  2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Visiting Needleworks in Birmingham UPDATED

Needleworks in Birmingham, Alabama just had a profile of its owner published in the local newspaper website.  What fun!
UPDATE:  The link broke but Wendy found a replacement.  Thanks, Wendy!
http://thehomewoodstar.com/businesses/women-of-homewood/judith-carter630/
You can visit the shop online here if a trip to Alabama (I highly recommend a trip there, it's a wonderful state with wonderful people but don't go in the heat of summer) isn't on your agenda.
http://www.gritsneedlepoint.com

Many thanks to Needlework Retailer for finding this and mentioning it.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 8, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Pat Van Cleve's Stitching

The latest edition of NeedlePointers (May 2017) is now arriving in our mailboxes.*    The standout article in this issue to me is the profile of Pat Van Cleve.  Whether you are a member of ANG or not, you should check out the online show of Pat's needlework, primarily needlepoint and her original designs.  Once you arrive, use the password "thesalemchapter" all run together.  Then click on Open.
https://client.vesic.com/patvancleve/

*I know it is July but the May issue was delayed as ANG has a new publisher and the transition has taken time.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 8, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Basic Theory of Embellishment

If you are looking for simple guidelines to follow when you start to embellish a needlepoint canvas, this article from Needlepoint for Fun is just what the doctor ordered.
http://www.needlepoint-for-fun.com/basic-theory-for-how-to-choose-needlepoint-stitches.htm

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 7, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wellesley Needlepoint's Learning Center

Wellesley Needlepoint has added a page called the Learning Center to their website.   Right now there are free videos, including a two-part introduction to needlepoint and a video about basketweave.  Later on the shop will add videos that are part of online workshops.  You will have to belong to the class to get access to those.
https://www.wellesleyneedlepoint.com/learning/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 2, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Zorro Guards the Books

Diane shows off her Zorro bookend on her Facebook page.  There are six photographs plus information about where she had it finished on her August 1, 2017 posting.
https://www.facebook.com/Dianes-Stitchin-In-The-Mitten-1439608229635844/


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 1, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Au Ver A Soie Goes Metallic

I had no idea that Au Ver A Soie has metallic braids, but Mary Corbet talks about them here.
https://www.needlenthread.com/2017/06/thread-talk-the-metallics-you-want-to-use.html

There's not much available to us but Needle in a Haystack has a few colors.
http://www.needlestack.com/WebStore/Thread/AVAS_Metallic.html

The shop plans a club with more colors than what are on their website in 2018 once Au Ver a Soie has plenty of colors ready to ship to them.
http://needlestack.typepad.com/whats_new/2017/11/au-ver-a-soie-metallics-coming-in-2018.html

Threadnuts appears to have the overdyed metallics in size 8 braid. I am not clear if these are straight from Au Ver A Soie or their overdyed versions.
http://shop.threadnut.com/8-Metallic-Braid_c35.htm?page=all

Inspirations magazine is selling sets of the metallic.  It's called Metallise Tresse'.
https://www.inspirationsstudios.com/product/shades-of-metallic-metallise-tresse/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 20, 2017 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.