Why Finishers Charge So Much

If you ever wondered why on earth finishers charge so much, just watch Vanna Pfieffer (The Twisted Stitcher) finish a standup.  It takes her nearly an hour and twenty minutes, plus she doesn't show everything.  AND she's very practiced at this.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEowNoFqfoQ&feature=youtu.be

Personally I think finishers are worth their weight in gold—and more!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 19, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Queen Margrethe Stitches

Denmark's Queen Margrethe II apparently does a lot of ecclesiastical needlepoint.  The Loudoun Sampler Guild has a brief article with photos of her latest antependium, which is a textile hanging for the front of an altar or lectern.  Queen Margrethe apparently does quite a bit of needlepoint for various Danish churches and also paints.
https://loudounsamplerguild.wordpress.com/2018/08/01/a-queenly-embroidery/

Nice to know the first reigning female monarch in Denmark since the 14th Century is a needlepointer like us.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 2, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Holy Cow! It's BIG!!

Enriched Stitch showed off John's latest project on their blog. Suzie estimates it took him three years and is about 3x4 feet.  And it is beautiful!
http://astheneedleturns.com/a-massive-undertaking/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 19, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

ANG Exhibit Pieces

The articles about folks' experiences at ANG's 2018 Seminar are getting quite long, so I thought I'd post links to the designs exhibited in a separate article. First up is Vicky who won the Small Masterpiece ribbon.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2090338837707122&set=a.109100845830941&type=3&theater

Next is Sondra who didn't win anything but our hearts with her jewel-colored kimono on black.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10156614126914935&set=gm.1885313324879150&type=3&theater

Carol's original design, "Ladybird," won the Sampler Award.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10215823785684265&set=pcb.1908821545861661&type=3&theater

Donna won a third place for Quest Challenge piece!
https://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2018/08/serious-moonlight.html

Melita won a third place ribbon for her Crescent Journey, an original piece she designed through an Orna Willis design class.  She requested a judge's critique and got some valuable tips.
https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2018/09/02/crescent-journey-in-ang-2018-seminar-exhibit-in-washington-dc/

She also exhibited an original design and got some interesting information in the critique for this one.
https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2018/09/04/purple-mountains-majesty-in-ang-2018-seminar-exhibit-in-washington-dc/

Jan won a third place for her original design as well.
https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2018/09/08/heart-of-our-art/

Deborah won a first place ribbon for her Shorebird Studio koi.
https://www.facebook.com/newcreationpictureframing/photos/pcb.10156754809212427/10156754809147427/?type=3&theater

Funda Scully designed and stitched this beautiful USA box which won two ribbons.
https://www.facebook.com/needlenookoflajolla/photos/a.874331942611533/2148770548500993/?type=3&theater

Have you noticed that the major ribbons ANG awards all have stitched centers?  Here is a good look at some that Brenda stitched for ANG.  They are beautiful and make winning one even more special.
https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2018/09/ang-seminar-ribbon-buttons-9518.html

My final link isn't to an exhibit piece, but an award winner all the same.  Ruth Schmuff was awarded ANG's Literary Award for 2018!
https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2018/08/with-gratitude/?mc_cid=64fb72979c&mc_eid=c05eb4bd3b

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 24, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A New Cotton Floss from DMC UPDATED

DMC is about a to release 35 colors of a new cotton floss they call Mouline Etoile. It is six ply with a metallic woven in.  It will be available online in October but I'm not sure when it will be in the stores.
https://mailchi.mp/dmcus/us-etoileteaser-279601?e=f7c1b12c64

UPDATE:  Here is what Mary Corbet thinks of it.
https://www.needlenthread.com/2018/11/the-new-sparkle-dmc-etoile.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright September 18, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Stars and Stripes: The 2018 ANG Seminar in D.C.

Folks at ANG's 2018 Seminar are starting to report in.  Pour yourself your favorite beverage and settle in your comfy chair to read all about it.
https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2018/08/24/ang-2018-seminar-exhibit-in-washington-dc/

Melita is taking classes, too.  She's in "Designing Geometric Samplers," by Kathy Rees.
https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2018/08/25/designing-geometric-samplers-day-1-with-kathy-rees/

https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2018/08/26/expo-at-seminar-and-day-2-of-class/

https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2018/08/27/day-3-designing-geometrics/

https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2018/08/30/designing-geometrics-sampler-post-class/

https://melitastitches4fun.wordpress.com/2018/09/05/designing-geometric-samplers-a-stained-glass-violet/

Jan has arrived and starting stitching.  She won a ribbon, too, but had to leave early.  Hope all is well now, Jan!
https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2018/08/21/day-1-at-the-ang-seminar-in-dc/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2018/08/22/day-2-of-seminar/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2018/08/23/day-3-at-seminar/

Donna will be there shortly.  Here's a glimpse at a piece she's exhibiting, Sue Kerdt's "Holiday Patches."
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2018/08/ang-time.html

This is Linda's first time at an ANG Seminar.
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/22/ang-seminar-2018-first-timer-report/

She had a wonderful time!
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/25/seminar-2018-wrap-up/

Carol's taking Dawn Donnelly's "Liberty" as a class.  So is DMB.
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/23/day-one-at-seminar/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/23/liberty-seminar-2018/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/24/liberty-day-2-seminar-2018/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/26/liberty-update/

Carol is also taking a rozashi class from Margaret Kinsey called "Serenity."
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/26/serenity-at-seminar/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/28/wrapping-up-seminar-2018/

Dawn is taking Gail Stafford's "City Lake", tracing trees, working random stitches and otherwise stretching her skills.
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/23/seminar-2018-day-one/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/24/city-lake-conclusion-and-more-seminar/

Rosie is doing Toni Gerdes' "American Plains."
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/23/american-plains/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/25/more-american-plains/

Rosie also volunteered at the Exhibit and started a class with Jo I. Christensen, "Bunnies on Lavender Lane," to learn stumpwork.
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/26/catching-up/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/27/confidence/

Sue's taking "Diamond City Lights," by Diane Herrmann.
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/24/diamond-city-lights-day-1/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/26/day-3-of-diamond-city-lights/

DMB is taking Toni Gerdes' "New Glory" and loving it.  She also helped out at Expo and won a cute design at the auction.
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/26/new-glory-day-1-day-3-of-seminar/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/26/new-glory-day-two/

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/08/27/new-glory-day-3/

Brenda took Michele Robert's evening purse class and also Joan Thomasson's Christmas mini stocking.
https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2018/09/ang-2018-seminar-9118.html

https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2018/09/golden-gala-evening-purse-92118.html

She helped make scissor fobs to be given to ANG Seminar attendees when they registered.
https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2018/09/ang-2018-seminar-scissor-fobs-9318.html

BLG first hit the shops.  (of course!)
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/09/05/my-time-at-the-ang-national-seminar-part-1/

Then she went to embellishment with three fabulous teachers.
https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2018/09/05/my-time-at-the-ang-seminar-part-2/

Not all the postings are by students.  Here is what Sandy Arthur says about the classes she is teaching and Seminar in general.
https://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2018/08/ang-seminar-washington-dc-todays-post.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 22, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Danji Has a New Owner!

Kreinik breaks the news officially: Danji has been sold to Old Town Needlework's owner Janice!
https://www.facebook.com/Kreinik.Manufacturing.Company/videos/312011792908823/

Have fun, Janice!  And Jill, enjoy being semi-retired!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright September 24, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Beading Koma UPDATED

I've seen mention of something called a beading koma recently but I had never seen photos or a clear explanation of how beading komas are used in Japanese bead embroidery until this explanation.   Basically you string beads on your thread, then wind the length around the koma.  This allows you to unroll a section as you couch it down on your design.  Thanks, Margaret!
http://www.sharpneedler.com/2018/07/beading-koma-what-great-tool.html

Regular komas are used in Japanese embroidery to hold and control pairs of gold thread as they are couched. This is what they look like—
https://berlinembroidery.com/product/japanese-koma/

They are used in a pair, one for each of the pair of gold threads that you will be couching.
https://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2012/05/need-another-pair-of-hands.html

You can see a photo of two koma being used in gold embroidery on Mary Corbet's website.
https://www.needlenthread.com/2012/04/goldwork-embroidery-never-ending-but-so-worth-it.html

Obviously a beading koma is not used in quite this way.  It is shaped slightly differently and intended to be used when you have a long line of beads to couch on something.  You can purchase a beading koma from Mary Alice here.  Looks like you need to buy the hair elastic separately and add it to your wooden beading koma.  (UPDATE:  DD says she bought a beading coma from Mary Alice and the elastic band came with it.)  But they are easily available at drug stores and places like Target and Walmart, which enables you to find a fat one in just the color you prefer.
https://bluebonnetstudio.com/wood-products/beading-koma-various-woods

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 13, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Lost and Found

Kathryn Crosby's Lost Needlepoint

Randi just saw this on display at Unclaimed Baggage Center in Scottsboro, Alabama.  For those who don't know, Unclaimed Baggage sells items that were lost on flights and never reunited with their owners.  It's always a fun place to browse although I never found any nice needlepoint there.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10215752907309430&set=pcb.1851161821627634&type=3&theater&ifg=1

This has special meaning to me since my godparents were close friends with the owners of Unclaimed Baggage and they saw the Crosby needlepoint piece before it was reunited with its owner.  My godmother told me it was a beautiful large floral in lavenders and blues that was impeccably stitched.  Thanks, Randi. I always wondered what this was like.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 4, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Fold and Pinch Method of Needle Threading UPDATED

Sue at the Tortoise Loft has a tutorial on how to thread a needle using the fold and pinch method.  
https://suetortoise.wordpress.com/2018/07/13/needle-threading-101/

Thanks, Sue.  Tips are always helpful, and we don't always have a needle threader right there when we need it.

UPDATE:  Dawn reminded me of another way to help threading a needle:  "Some of your readers may not know that the eye of each needle has one beveled side to make threading easier. If the thread won't go into the eye on the first try, turn the needle to the other side."

Thanks, Dawn!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 13, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Frida in Needlepoint UPDATED

Thorn Alexander's Frida Portrait

Bobbin and Fred is in love with needle art portraits of Frida Kahlo.  One of her favorites is available as a printed canvas from Art Needlepoint.
https://www.sewingwithbobbinandfred.co.uk/2018/08/frida-fever-five-fantastic-kahlos.html

The first Frida Kahlo portrait in painted canvas I know about is Melissa Shirley's from her Wild Women series.
https://rittenhouseneedlepoint.com/canvas/people/frida-kahlo-wild-woman.html

Melissa also has the Frida chick from Vicki Sawyer, which makes me smile every time I see it.  Bet this hen rules the roost!
https://www.annieandco.com/products/melissa-shirley-vs146

Lulu My Pink Turtle has several Frida portraits for those who are more whimsical.
https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/product/frida-dia-de-los-muertos/

http://www.stitchtherapyneedlepoint.com/feature.php?id=46736&title=Frida%20Mermaid&itemtype=hand%20painted%20canvases

http://www.stitchtherapyneedlepoint.com/feature.php?id=32762&title=Viva%20Frida&itemtype=hand%20painted%20canvases

Bailey Jack (distributed by And More) has a butterfly portrait of Frida.
http://yarntree.typepad.com/needlework_news/2017/05/frida-and-butterflies.html

Maren Devine has my favorite Frida portrait.  Kate Dickerson distributes her work.
https://www.louisesneedlework.com/shop/NEW/p/Frida-Kahlo-x34538040.htm

I'm sure there are more Frida needlepoint canvases available.  If you know of one, please tell me in the Comments or email me at chillyhollow at hot maildotcom if Google won't let you comment today.

UDPATE:  Mary Ann found this limited edition Frida pictured above from Thorn Alexander.  It's not on their website so it may no longer be available.  So I posted the photo Mary Ann found for us.  Thanks, MA!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 8, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Today is Local Needlepoint Shop Day!

Check their website for the first Local Needlepoint Shop Day to see if a shop near you is participating.  If you don't have a local, order something from a favorite store.  Spread the love for the shops that supply us the goodies we need to needlepoint our brains out.
http://www.localneedlepointshopday.com

Also check their Facebook page for the latest updates on all the fun at the various shops which are participating.  Not all the shops are celebrating today or just on one day.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1695077600576608/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 10, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

EGA's Storr Miniature House

EGA has a doll house among their collection of needle art.  Apparently the members furnished it with their needlework.  Some of the pieces are clearly needlepoint and many are probably also silk gauze.  It's a fun browse!
https://egausa.org/gallery/storr-miniature-house/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 4, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: 3 Kittens is Now Distributing

3 Kittens is diversifying from a shop in Minnesota to a distributor of needlepoint design artists under the 3K Designs name.  They are distributing designs from Katherine Parfet Designs, Sally Brandl Designs, and Cindy Lindgren.

Katherine is known for her Judiaca but she has other pieces in her line as well.
http://www.3kittensneedlearts.com/3k-designs-needlepoint-featuring-katherine-parfet.htm?utm_source=NDPT+Sep+15+2018&utm_campaign=ndpt+9-15-18&utm_medium=email

Sally has a darling Nativity set and a lot of intricate monograms.
http://www.3kittensneedlearts.com/3k-designs-wholesale-needlepoint-canvases---sally-brandl.htm?utm_source=NDPT+Sep+15+2018&utm_campaign=ndpt+9-15-18&utm_medium=email

Cindy does fantastic Arts and Crafts style pieces and there are stitch guides available for some of these beauties.
http://www.3kittensneedlearts.com/your-wholesale-source-for-needlepoint-canvases.htm

We wish 3 Kittens and their artists great success in this new venture!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright September 16, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Totally Different

Here is something I have not seen before—kangaroo scissors! LOL
https://www.inspirationsstudios.com/product/embroidery-scissors-kangaroo/

These are sold by Inspirations magazine, which is an Australian publication, so I guess I should not be surprised.  I think they are adorable.  Check the Gallery at the bottom of the page for a photo of the scissors in the open position so that you get a sense of the kangaroo hopping.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 10, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Cajun Navy Ornament

You may not have heard of the Cajun Navy, an informal group of folks from Louisiana with boats who rush to flooding disasters and pull folks to safety. I have because during last year's Hurricane Harvey, they recued a friend of mine.  Now there is an ornament celebrating their service and bravery, available from Nashville Needleworks.  A donation is made to the Hurricane Relief Fund every time you buy one of these, too.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1611763242300760&set=gm.1909722135771602&type=3&theater&ifg=1

https://nashvilleneedleworks.com/shop/canvas/cajun-navy/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Another Peek Behind the Scenes at Suppliers UPDATED

Tricia Nguyen is well-known among the needle set for her 17th Century reproduction casket and mirror classes.  She's also an engineer and familiar with the challenges of making threads and fabrics for the use of needle artists.  The latest challenge has been to get the nice linen needed for her classes.  You will be amazed to read about the long shelf life of linens and how that dye lot change you are annoyed with might have occurred because environmental laws changed ten years back.
https://thistle-threads.blogspot.com/2018/05/old-white-linen.html

UPDATE:  Here's a bit on how silk wrapped purl is made.
http://thistle-threads.blogspot.com/2018/11/how-are-silk-wrapped-purls-made.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 22, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Death Comes to Needlepoint UPDATED

It's been a sad few days in the world of needlepoint as we have lost both Mary Agnes Ruhudy Cussen of Needle Nicely in Florida and the Needle Deeva.
https://needlenicely.com

https://www.facebook.com/296478407860/photos/a.452211247860/10155929818117861/?type=3&theater

http://www.needledeeva.com

I enjoyed Mary Agnes' blog where she talked about the realities of owning a needlepoint shop and I loved the fun designs that the Needle Deeva gave us.  Our sympathies to their friends and families.

UPDATE:  For those unfamiliar with Needle Deeva's work, The Needlepointer was having a trunk show when news of her death broke and made two videos of the show.  You may like to browse the designs, just to see what a talent she was.
https://vimeo.com/289471703

https://vimeo.com/289541599

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright September 17, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Boring Party (or Greg Gutfeld is Off My Christmas Card List)

Juli saw this show on Fox News last night and posted the link to Needlepoint Nation. It's a satirical piece about elections these days but the folks who wrote us decided to use the stereotype that needlepointers are boring. Sigh.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aUiA7uzwZA

Some days I'm glad needlepoint is under the radar.  Other days the fact that stereotypes like these still exist makes me mad.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright September 16, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Styling My Neon Rays

My new flat iron

Recently I purchased a $10 flat iron at a big box store near my house.  This is supposed to straighten your hair, which makes it a pretty funny purchase since my hair is straight as a stick naturally.  But I didn't buy it to style my hair—I bought it to help tame threads.

As you can see in the photo, I bought the simplest model available.  It has an on-off switch that is inside the area that you clamp over the threads, so the off/on switch is not visible in the photo.  You plug it in the wall, turn it on, and wait for it to heat up.  You can buy a fancier model with a longer cord, temperature controls, etc. but I didn't bother as I'm only using this on threads that have bends in them from being wrapped around cards.  If you already have a flat iron that you use on your hair, you might want to invest in one just for threads.  I'm told that hair spray and hair conditioners build up on the flat iron's surfaces and might come off on your threads.  This was cheap enough that I can use it just for threads.

Neon Rays, Fresh off the Card

Neon Rays are notorious for being hard to handle and having crimps in them when you cut a length off the card, so I thought I'd use them to test my flat iron.  I cut 5-6 lengths, each about 18 inches long, so that I would have plenty to use in my current project without having to get the flat iron out.

I plugged in my flat iron, turned it on, and after a minute or so I picked out a length of Neon Rays, held it near the end with one hand, clamped the flat iron over the end of the thread near my fingers, and slid it down the full length of the thread.  Nothing happened!  I checked the heat of the flat iron and realized I'd not given it enough time to warm up.  Brands will vary but my basic version needs two-three minutes before it is warm enough to use.

After another wait, I tried again.  This time each strand came through the flat ironing process smooth and sleek.

Smooth and Sleek After Flat Ironing

The flat iron definitely works!  My Neon Ray lengths look about a thousand percent better and I think it will all stitch up nicely.  I will probably use it with other flat threads with kinks such as Flair and ribbon floss. My cheap version doesn't get really hot so I am not worried about melting a thread.  I will test first, though, just to make sure.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 7, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Diversions Needlepoint is Moving

Diversions Needlepoint in Denver is moving!  The shop is closing now as they pack up and get the new space ready.  All the details are listed on their home page.  Stay tuned for the Big Reveal of the new space!
http://www.diversionsneedlepoint.com

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright September 16, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Skip Tent, The Video

Needlepoint.com's Jinny Barney has done a short video on skip tent. Skip tent is a very popular light coverage stitch for backgrounds, particular if you have just a small area where a larger stitch won't fit.  The video shows how to work skip tent on the diagonal.  
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0AYd0U9uVkE&_bta_tid=32598328565476411863323762681160646614111499567885547289766052363158050539083657653203362937343320956190&_bta_c=2c8t1dafmyet9sg7kj5bnhtlec5if

The shop also has an online course on light coverage background stitches which this video is promoting in case you are intrigued by stitches that allow beautiful shading to show through.
https://needlepoint.com/online-needlepoint-classes/technique-online-classes/openwork-backgrounds-technique-class-24955.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 10, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Couching, The Video

Kreinik has posted a video tutorial on couching.  Of course the tutor from the San Francisco School of Needlework and Design doing the demonstration is using Kreinik threads on fabric, but all this works on needlepoint canvas and it's interesting to watch. She has some good tips, too.
http://kreinikthread.blogspot.com/2018/07/learn-how-to-couch-fun-fibers.html

If you always wanted to try couching but didn't really understand written directions, this is a great resource.  There are more videos on the SF School of Needlework's YouTube channel, too.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGcG04h6WCbZ8bAveD7T7cA

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 10, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Destination Dallas Begins (with Counted Canvaswork)

Most all the shop owners, designers, thread manufacturers, authors and of course representatives of Needlepoint Nation are at Destination Dallas by now. Let's start the celebration with the counted canvaswork designers, shall we?

Kathy Rees of Needle Designs Originals has three new charts available and she'll be at Destination Dallas.  Make sure you send your shop owners to visit with her and pick up the latest.  Even if you don't stitch from charts, check out Kathy's examples to see how changing a border totally transforms a design.
http://needledelightsoriginals.blogspot.com/2018/09/where-has-summer-gone.html

Debbie Rowley of DebBee's Designs shows off a new teaching piece inspired by the ceiling of Chicago's Union Station.  This will eventually be available as a chart once Debbie is done teaching it here and there.
https://debbeesdesigns.com/2018/09/12/teaching-projects-gilded-cabochons/

I will continue to post updates in the Destination Dallas tab but I didn't want you to overlook the counted things in a sea of painted canvases.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright September 13, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Brenda Hart's Cross Hatched Background

Ruth Schmuff's mystery class from last year finally came back from the finishers as a lovely pillow.  As usual, I updated the article about this Bedecked and Beadazzled class with the final product but I want to draw your attention to the background stitch.
https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2018/06/a-tiny-bird-flew-home/

Here's the article Ruth posted originally about the random cross hatched background, adapted from an idea from the great Brenda Hart.  Isn't it clever?!  Ruth has used this several times and shows off the stitch on one of the Shelly Penko canvases.
https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2017/03/texture-2/

Brenda's a genius.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 29, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Abigail Cecile Has a New Website

Abigail Cecile has a new website!  You can browse her designs and buy one, pick up a stitch guide, or read her blog which has a really neat way of finishing a small needlepoint design yourself that is quite easy.
https://www.abigailcecile.com

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright September 12, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Enchanted Forest, A Flat Topped Casket

Janet Brandt has finished her flat-topped 17th Century style box and posted a video on YouTube. Wait'll you see what's INSIDE the box!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQ70b2lB8CI

Here's a silent film about making the trees.  Click on the sentence under the photo to start the film.
http://www.janetbrandt.com/2018/06/making-enchanted-forest-trees.html

If 17th Century reproduction embroidery interests you, visit Janet's website to see her other casket.  It's even more amazing, if that is possible.
http://www.janetbrandt.com 

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 2, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

New Tools

This week shops have highlighted new tools they sell and I thought you might be interested. The first item is a storage box that Homestead sells. It has little dividers that can be moved around to make room for whatever you want inside.  This is called the Poke-a-Dot Organizer and Homestead can special order black instead of clear plastic if you prefer a solid color.
https://www.homesteadneedlearts.com/catalog/uncategorized/poke-a-dot-organizer/

Silver Needle has two new styles of needle threader and they are both cute.  The lady bug needle threader has a small light to help you see the needle's eye as you thread up.  The bird is smaller and  has the wire threader which is covered with a plastic "beak" when not in use.  The bird also has a tiny thread cutter.  These are useful and fun and because they are inexpensive, they would make nice gifts for other stitchers you know.
https://www.thesilverneedle.com/gadgets3.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 3, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Moore Stitching Launches!

Laura Moore's new website for Moore Stitching is up and running!  Is there anything better than a new designer to cater to our whims as needlepointers?
https://moorestitching.com/blogs/news/launched

My personal favorites are the Yoga Girl collection.
https://moorestitching.com/collections/yoga-girl-canvases

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright September 10, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Creating a Shaggy Dog

Di Van Niekerk has written a wonderful tutorial on how to create a shaggy dog which she has shared here.
https://dicraft.co.za/blog/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2017/09/Dandy-Dog-A-Free-Tutorial.pdf

You should note that she is an embroiderer based in South Africa so she is using a thread most of us aren't familiar with.  Chameleon Threads can be purchased from this Australian website.
http://www.allthreads.com.au/threads-wools-1/chameleon-threads

You can also substitute cotton or silk perle and floss, of course.  The company's Facebook page might be helpful, as well.
https://www.facebook.com/Chameleon-Threads-379183118896758/

I would suggest that needlepointers use Di's tutorial as a jumping off point.  She has plenty of great ideas like using beads for the dog's nails and using turkeywork for the long shaggy look.  Experiment a bit to recreate the look of her grass.  Sadly she doesn't have stitch diagrams for the stitches she uses but I think with some experimentation you can come up with a similar look.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 7, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Black Rose Needlepoint Launches!

We have another new designer! Please welcome Black Rose Needlepoint to our world!
https://www.carolinewellsart.com/tapestry

Here is her Etsy page.  Have fun browsing!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/BlackRoseNeedlepoint?ref=l2-shopheader-name

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright September 10, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Wemyss School of Needlework

We've all heard of the Royal School of Needlework but this isn't the only needlework school in the United Kingdom. There is the Wemyss School of Needlework as well.  You can read about their history, their collection of historical needlework, find out about their classes, and browse some of their kits on their website. Their blog is fun, too.
https://wemyssneedlework.com

If you are a fan of traditional needlepoint or needlepoint samplers worked in Appleton crewel, don't miss their needlepoint kits section.  Love that red and white stocking!
https://wemyssneedlework.com/needleworkkits2

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 8, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Let's Recycle Vintage Needlepoint

I believe the current queen of recycling vintage needlepoint is Brenda Ische.  Check out her house and some of the restaurants she's decorated and see if you agree.  Study the photos carefully and don't miss the "headboard" in her guest bedroom.
http://www.charlottemagazine.com/Home-Garden/March-2018/Color-Whimsy-Inside-Home-of-Amlies-Designer-Brenda-Ische/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 8, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Patricia Sone's Designs are Live

The new Patricia Sone website is now live!  You probably know Patricia for her stitch guides but she is branching out into painted needlepoint designs.  Click on To The Trade to browse and ask your favorite shop to order for you.
https://www.patriciasone.com

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright September 8, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Ecclesiastical Embroidery in England

Reed is in Oxford, England where he discovered a huge range of needlepoint pillows and kneelers in the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin.  Use the right side arrow to see all the photographs he took.  Sadly, he says there was no information as to the designer(s) or stitchers of these beauties.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10160622236195153&set=pcb.1857561487654334&type=3&theater

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 8, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

What Every Equestrian Needs

Horse Country Chic has a short list of items every equestrian needs.  Naturally needlepoint is on the list!
https://herridinghabit.com/profiles/ann-turnicky-horse-country-chic/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 7, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Lacquered Boxes

Remember the beautiful lacquered boxes that HP Designs used to sell? Amanda Lawford bought rights to some of the styles and now that her designs belong to Vallerie Needlepoint Gallery, the shop affiliated with VNG has managed to get more of them with a 5x5 opening for a design.  (Did you follow all that?  I might need to do a diagram.  LOL)  The boxes are fabulous and are $190 each regardless of color.   There are only a few of them so if you have a great canvas that will work ready and want a spectacular display for a birthday or Christmas gift, don't hesitate to buy.
http://astheneedleturns.com/september-newsletter/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright September 5, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Threadaholic Alert: Tonkin Floss

The French Needle is starting to import a new cotton thread with a bit of metallic woven in to the USA. They call it Tonkin Floss.  Click on the photos to get a better look at the thread and the various colors available.  Judging from the photos, this isn't a strandable thread but it's hard to be certain.
https://www.frenchneedle.com/collections/tonkin-floss

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 7, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Another Source for 2mm Silk Ribbon

Just stumbled across this source for silk ribbons, including the hard-to-find 2mm widths. It also appears you can order solid colors and collections of overdyes in varying sizes which is really nice if you want to do roses in the same colors but different sizes from fully blooming to tiny buds.
https://www.silkribbon.com/collections/hand-dyed-silk-ribbon

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 21, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Mackenzie Learns to Needlepoint

The Design Darling website has a charming article up about how Mackenzie learned to needlepoint, complete with photos of her projects and how she learned.  There are also links to Etsy shops she wants to shop at and tips in the Comments section of other places to buy fun canvases.
http://www.mackenziehoran.com/2018/07/02/how-i-started-needlepointing/

Enjoy the journey, Mackenzie!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 2, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The New Rage in Backgrounds

I've started to see backgrounds done in rows of stitches like Michaela's version on Facebook lately.  It's a new trend, I think, although Michaela's color changes along the edges are a new twist.  Normally the varying stitch rows are in ecru.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10106412014847937&set=gm.1825464527530697&type=3&theater

If you want to try this, you'll need a canvas with a lot of plain background and one central motif for best results.  Michaela also worked the top half and bottom half in identical rows, which helps unify the piece.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 24, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Pumpkin Harvest Begins!

Today's the day! The annual pumpkin "harvest" at SM Wollman Designs begins!  Sharon finds and recycles old needlepoint canvases into pumpkin shapes to create one-of-a-kind recycled pumpkins.  These are all limited editions, folks, so if you fall for a pumpkin, don't wait to order.
https://www.smwollmandesigns.com/collections/heirloom-needlepoint-pumpkins-tm

The sale ends November 3, 2018—or when the pumpkins are all gone to new homes.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 18, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Local Needlepoint Shop Day is September 20

The first Local Needlepoint Shop Day is set for September 20!  Check their website to see if a shop in your area is participating in the fun.  If you don't have a local shop to visit, please support your favorite online shop by ordering something.  We cannot do without needlepoint shops, so share the love!
http://www.localneedlepointshopday.com

To see what it planned in your area, check the Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1695077600576608/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright August 10, 2018 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.