Friday, December 31, 2021

A Tool for Those Pesky Tails

Michelle highly recommends the GUM Ee-z Thru for pulling tails through, repairs and weaving ends.

These are also sold as teeth cleaning floss so check your local drug store for them.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 24, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Thursday, December 30, 2021

"Sewing Kit Storage Unit"

Nancy just posted a photo on NP Nation of a pile of Royal Dansk Danish butter cookies in their tins advertised with a sign that reads, "Sewing Kit Storage Unit."

LOL

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 24, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Needle Arts Mystery Retreats End

The Needle Arts Mystery Retreat is closing this year, 2021.  This was announced on their Facebook page December 21, 2021.


The four founders are continuing to teach separatedly and will post on Facebook at their renamed Those Mysterious Ladies page.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 22, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, December 28, 2021

Anthropologie Discovers Kaffe Fassett

Anthropolgie has discovered Kaffe Fassett.  They've even recreated his studio at one of their store galleries, the London one on Kings Road.

Want a really special gift for yourself or someone who deserves it?  Browse the Kaffe Fassett items for sale on his website.  These include needlepoint upholstered chairs, pillows and rugs, plus more from his creative mind and hands.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com 
 Copyright December 22, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Monday, December 27, 2021

Stitches (and Threads) for Faces

Faces on needlepoint canvas can be hard.  There's usually not much space so even one stitch can throw the expression off.  I thought for Christmas I'd list all the stitches and threads I've seen or used that worked well.

Tent stitches or basketweave are the classic face stitches.  They work very well, but you may find you need to do a reverse tent stitch to make an eye or eyebrow or mouth's corner look right.

If you don't want to use a tent stitch, try skip tent, brick stitch over two, interlocking Gobelin, or even diagonal mosaic if your design slants.  Long and short or split stitch also works nicely.  

I often use silk for faces because of the sheen but cotton floss is a great choice if you want a more matte look.  I also used white Flair for a snowman's face once and it really was the right icy look.  

Changing the amount of thread also works very well.  I have stitched a geisha's painted white face with Caron's Impressions.  The design was painted on 13 count and I used only one strand so the painted nose and eyebrows showed through the thread.  It looked really nice.  

When it comes to the eyebrows, eyelashes and noses, I often stitch right over them with my chosen skin stitch, then stem stitch the features on top with one ply of a floss to add them back.  Eyes and mouths are a challenge at time since one stitch can change the expression.  Be prepared to rip out.  I often use a Swarovski crystal sequin for the eyes and attach it with invisible thread or with the eyelash color.  You can cover one pie-shaped wedge of the sequin with thread to create an expression or make your eyes look to one side.  For mouths I often use a tent and reverse tent stitch for the corners of the mouth and then do hoizontal stitches of varying lengths for the lips.  

Experiment and see what works for you.  Faces are the heart and soul of designs with people in them so it's worth ripping and redoing if necessary.

By the way, if you need thread brands and numbers for skin colors, this article is for you.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
 
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 16, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Sunday, December 26, 2021

A Clever Idea for Christmas Stockings

It's too late for Christmas 2021 but Sarah Marie has come up with a genius way to use ornaments on top of plain stockings so that you can change the decoration as children grow and their interests change.  

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 22, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Saturday, December 25, 2021

The Pocket Full of Stitches Ornament Exchange

Each year I enjoy seeing Pocket Full of Stitches' ornament exchange.

It is clear they are having a lovely time!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 22, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Friday, December 24, 2021

Preview of Christmas Tree in NeedlePointers

If you are curious about ANG's magazine, NeedlePointers, Eye Candy shows off their Polka Dot Christmas Tree, featured in the December 2021 issue.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 16, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, December 22, 2021

Woodlawn 2022 Registration Open

Thanks to Brenda, I've learned we can all start to register for the March 2022 Woodlawn Plantation Needlework Exchibit now.  The deadline for sending in a piece for the exhibition is early this year--January 28, 2022.

The cost, how and where to register are listed on the Woodlawn website along with descriptions of the age and entry categories.

The exhibit itself will be open from March 2 through March 31 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.n. with the exception of Tuesdays when they are closed.  

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 15, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, December 21, 2021

No Flat Iron? No Problem!

Patricia was traveling, wanted to stitch, but didn't bring her flat iron to smooth her threads.  So she got creative with a hot stove element and a knife.

Genius!

Just don't burn yourself, folks.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.co
© Copyright December 14, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Monday, December 20, 2021

Amy Bunger Home Studies in 2022

Needle Works in Austin, Texas just announced Amy Bunger will have three new Home Study projects offered through their shop in 2022.


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 14, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Sunday, December 19, 2021

An Interview with Nathan Wiedenmann of Stella Lighting

This week's Pointing It Out show on YouTube interviews the founder of Stella Lighting.

Not familiar with Stella lights?  Here is their website.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 12, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Ribbon Handles for Coffee Cups

Rachel Donley has a line of fun coffee cups and recently posted a photo of them on Facebook.  

Look at the two standup cups in the background--they have ribbon handles!  Isn't that clever?!  Of course you need the right shape.  My Pink Sugar Life has coffee cups that would work.

Here's a better photo.  Looks like the ribbon has a backing.

One Park Whimsy has a French press that you could finish this way to make a grouping.

Pepita has a fun Bargello coffee.

You'll need a needle minder when you stitch your coffee, right?

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 9, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Friday, December 17, 2021

The Advent Calendar House

Colleen's Frame Station posted a fabulous piece of finishing on their Facebook page--a standup Advent calendar!  Use the side arrows to see a variety of views of this beauty.

It is really lovely.  I think that the canvas and the window magnetic pieces are designed by Kirk and Bradley but I also think it's a discontinued design.


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright Deember 8, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved

Thursday, December 16, 2021

Introducing Evergreen Needlepoint

Anna's new business is on Etsy.   Do you like astrology and the signs of the zodiac?  Evergreen Needlepoint has you covered!  There are some very cute needle minders, too.

Stay tuned for more.  This is just the beginning.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 8, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

An Interview with Kathy Rees of Needle Delights

The Pointing It Out podcast interviews Kathy Rees of Needle Delights Originals to hear about her charted designs and classes.

You can browse Kathy's counted designs and classes on her website.  Hint:  click on Menu in the upper left corner to explore.

(And if you are curious about Caron's Watercolours, here is the online color card.)

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 7, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Staging Needlepoint for Social Media

Bet you didn't realize (I sure didn't!) that the bigger needlepoint shops have people who stage those lovely photos you see on Instagram and Facebook and in shop e-newsletters.  Katy at Needlepoint.com talks about what she does, which is quite interesting.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 2, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Monday, December 13, 2021

The Six Drawer Thread Storage Cabinet

The NJNA blog just mentioned this six-drawer thread storage cabinet.

I can't tell if it is solid wood (although it looks like it) or the type of wood it is made from, but this is a good price. Of course it will have to ship from New Zealand....

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 4, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Sunday, December 12, 2021

Dental Tools Come in Handy

Michelle highly recommends dental tools to help rip out.  

It's a clever idea.  Some folks commenting that their get old tools from their dentist as they get worn down and have to be discarded.

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

Saturday, December 11, 2021

All About The System Four Frame

Melissa of the Pointing It Out podcast interviews Jennifer of System 4 about needlework frames, how and why needlepointers use them, and how the System 4 in particular works.

Here's the System Four website for some browsing to see all the products Melissa and Jennifer talked about.
www.needleworksystem4.com


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 2, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Friday, December 10, 2021

Needlepoint and Acrylic Napkin Holders

Stitch by Stitch in Larchmont, NY now offers acrylic napkin holders for finishing.  Scroll down nearly all the way past the belts to see how they look.  You'll need a five inch square design.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 2, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Elissa Steeves On Display

Thanks to Donna who posted about this article on NP Nation, we can all read about an exhibit in Roanoke, Virginia of Elissa Steeves' needlepoint purses and bags.  There are fifty-seven of them! (Click on the first photo to see more.). Sadly, the exhibit is over but she'll exhibit again in the area in 2024.
https://roanoke.com/z-no-digital/for-blacksburg-needlepoint-artist-it-s-in-the-bag-copy/article_4aa0f328-4bb5-11ec-bf41-ebe162d26660.html?fbclid=IwAR3FoxLNEtpHUqdv7UFYPYpxEeRdH744E9TwC1w6L6O2Pk7CmNn1ewgU6PE

And Elissa's husband got Kreinik into the fly tying business.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 2, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

Woodlawn Virtual Show Exhibit Tickets on Sale

Thanks to Melita's posting, I have learned the 2021 Woodlawn Needlework Exhibit is open virtually.

A ticket is $12, which allows you to visit the show onnline until it closes on January 6, 2022.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 7, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, December 7, 2021

Meeting Mark Craddock UPDATED

The Santa Beards Class Mark Craddock Teaches 


This week's Pointing It Out podcast is an interview of Mark Craddock, who is starting to make a name for himself as a needlepoint technique teacher.

Mark teaches regularly at Nimble Needle Atlanta...

...and at Nashville Needleworks.  Check with the shops for the latest classes he plans.

He also teaches all over in the summers at various shops.  Here's an upcoming class at Needle Works in Austin, Texas.

These are classes taught last October at Needle Bug in Montgomery, Alabama.

UPDATE:  Sadly, Mark died in early June 2023 from cancer. He will be missed.
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 1, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Monday, December 6, 2021

Mindfulness and Meditation with Needlepoint

Poppypointe's article about needlepoint and meditation is particularly important as the stresses of the holiday season start to pile up.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 29, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Sunday, December 5, 2021

Trays, Boxes, Frames and More from Deux Bijoux Bijoux

Deux Bijoux Bijoux has updated their Facebook page with a photo album of the custom frames, boxes, trays and much more they have done for customers.

Your favorite shop can arrange for Lisa Krause and her husband to design something for you if you need a really special touch for your needlepoint.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 27, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved

Saturday, December 4, 2021

The Winter Mystery Class: The Cocoa and Cookies Nutcracker UPDATED

Ruth Schmuff has announced the winter mystery class at Bedecked and Beadazzled.  It will be Kelly Clark's Cocoa and Cookies Nutcracker, a shop exclusive for now.  The details, including the class dates in December 2021 and January-February 2022, are here.

The first lesson gives the nutcracker cute rosy cheeks, and elegant nose, and starts the layers of the background.

Lesson two works on the background more--and gives the nutcracker pink boots!  The checkerboard sections are also being started.

Dots (and Jessicas) are everywhere!   Ruth has included links to help you make a lovely Jessica.

The final lesson has pearl decorated teacups, fat chocolate strawberries, and a darling bow.

Ruth has done videos on messy beading and making bows to help with this section.


If you'd like to see the nutcracker finished, here you go.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 22, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Friday, December 3, 2021

Self Finishing Tips and Tricks: The Movie

Time's getting short for Christmas and this year (and last) shops are having quadruple the number of items to finish.  Short version:  if you turned things in to your shop last June, they might be ready by December.  But if you are totally desperate, you can try self-finishing items with products from Planet Earth, Sudbury, Beth Gantz and more. 

But doing it yourself is scary, so the Pointing It Out Podcast has come to our rescue with a video about self-finishing tips and tricks.

Here is a link to Sudberry's Betsy Box.  (Sudberry has other styles and sizes of boxes.)

Here are the Sudbury trays.

Here are the Beth Gantz self-finishing ornaments and boxes.

Planet Earth's self-finishing items, including their jewelry boxes and clutches. are here.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 21, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Thursday, December 2, 2021

Laura Perin Helps with Color Choices

If you like to do charted designs but have trouble picking colors that work together, have I got a great tip for you!

Laura Perin's website lists the threads needed for her various charts (at least her American Quilt series of charts do; I'm a bit afraid to explore more as I really like her work but don't want to buy another chart!).

If you absolutely love one of these beauties, just copy down the thread brands and numbers needed for that chart and you'll have a great starting point for choosing colors you know you love and that will play nice together.

Thanks, Laura!  It's always nice to have a color genius help out.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 19, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

The Smart Cookie Award for December Goes To....

The Smart Cookie Award for December goes to Denise, who is using a camera backpack to store her tools, books, threads, even her flat iron and small canvases, for travel.

I found multiple sizes and prices at Best Buy, so if you have a store in your area, you can browse in person.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 1, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

How Mary Organizes UPDATED

Mary Corbet's latest article is about how she organizes and stores her threads, scissors, needles and beads.  It's a fun look at how a professional embroider keeps track of everything, with plenty of links to read more or to buy something.

UPDATE:  Mary goes into detail about her bead storage, the pluses and minuses.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com 
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Monday, November 29, 2021

Using Salt Scrub: The Movie

The Needlepointer posted a video about how to use a salt scrub to smooth your hands before stitching, especially before stitching with silks and other threads that tend to snag on your hands.

Here is the salt scrub the shop sells.  It is Himalayan salt mixed with coconut oil, so it exfoliates and moisturizes your hands simultaneously.

If you wish, you can use table salt or sugar as a scrub rather than buying a specialty product. (Salt will sting if you have a cut on your hand or fingers.)  I use about the same amount as you find in those sugar packets poured in a wet hand.  Scrub for as long as you can manage.  Rinse well in warm water and then add a good hand cream.  You can even rub mayonnaise into your hand but --PRO TIP!-- don't let your significant other catch you standing rubbing mayo into your hands.

You get some odd looks if you get caught with the mayo.  LOL

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 16, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Sunday, November 28, 2021

Market: The Movie

The Pointing It Out podcast reviews the Needlepoint Get-Together in Texas in early November, 2021 in this fun video.  Megan and Melissa aren't showing off new canvases and other products (although they do show their personal favorites), but just talking about what needlepoint wholesale markets are like.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 15, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Saturday, November 27, 2021

The Caskets Today

Those interested in 17th Century stump work caskets will adore seeing the modern versions of these.

These boxes are a labor of love, a tribute to the past and a fun way to use needle skills in a spectacular creation.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Friday, November 26, 2021

Coping Through Needlepoint in the Time of Covid

Shona Rhimes' website talks about needlepoint (although most of the photos are actually embroidery of one kind or another) and how it helps us cope when times are tough.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 8, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Thursday, November 25, 2021

Nancy Lukoskie and the Needlepoint of the National Cathedral

This is the presentation at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. that Nancy Lukoskie of Fancy Work Finishing did in 2014.  It is a great Thanksgiving treat that sheds light on ecclesiastical needlepoint creation, restoration and the planning involved in stitching such pieces.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright October 28, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Anchor Tapestry Wool and Cotton Floss Come to Big Box Stores

Anchor Tapestry Wool



I'd heard on the grapevine that in the US big box craft stores now carry Anchor tapestry wool and cotton floss.  Last weekend I stopped by the Michael's near me and saw these two displays beside the DMC cotton floss area.  As you can see, there are a limited range of colors but the wool is available in both nearly 11 yard small skeins and the large nearly 44 yard hanks.


Anchor Embroidery Floss

The cotton floss is presented on spools instead of little skeins and there are more colors available.  The display doesn't say how much yardage is on a spool but Anchor claims there is 25% more thread on the spools.  I found this article about the floss spools.

I've never used Anchor tapestry wool but I really like their embroidery floss so I'll be picking up a range of colors I use a lot to add to my stash my next trip to the big city.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 15, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

Got Stitches: Stitchapalooza

Gone Stitchin's latest book is out!  It's called "Got Stitches Stitchapalooza."  

I haven't seen a copy, but their previous books feature nice charts and color photos of stitch examples of each stitch diagrammed and this sneak peak shows that the new book has the same format.  


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 1, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Monday, November 22, 2021

Breaking News: New Winston-Salem NC Shop

I have great news for those living in or near Winston-Salem, North Carolina--a new shop is opening.

It's called Time to Stitch.  The official opening is December 3 and 4, 2021 but the shop is already open just before Thanksgiving so they have time to work out any problems before the grand opening.  It's located in Stratford Village on Stratford Road.  Hours are T,W,F 10-5, Th 10-7, Sat 10-3. Closed Sunday and Monday but the owner Susan McGhee O'Brian will make appointments for those times.

Here's the shop website.  It's still being built so keep checking back.


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 21, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

How to Make Monk's Braid: The Movie

Want to learn how to make monk's braid to edge an ornament or use as trim on an embellished design?  Nancy Lukoskie of Fancywork Finishing has the video tutorial for you.

It makes a pretty and hard-wearing cord.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright October 28, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Sunday, November 21, 2021

Eyelash Threads: A Review




Both Rainbow Gallery and Treenway Silks have new eyelash threads available.  Thanks to a friend, I have a sample of each to review.    You can see them above.  Treenway Silks' Eyelash color #0 Natural White is on the left side.  It is more cream than white in color and comes in a 10 yard skein.  It has a polyamide core and Chinese silk "lashes" which are roughly a quarter inch long.  Rainbow Eyelash color RE02 White is on the right.  It is a very white thread, and comes 8 yards on a card.  It is 100% polyamide with lashes nearly an inch long.  




When you find the end (not easy for either thread!) and lay it out to look at the thread, Treenway's Eyelash (bottom) is about the dimension of one ply from a skein of DMC six ply cotton floss, which is in the photo for comparison purposes.  Rainbow Eyelash is slightly thicker, perhaps 2 plies' thicknesses when compared to the cotton floss.  The Rainbow Eyelash feels silkier although it is all synthetic and the Treenway Eyelash seems thicker because its fatter "lashes" are packed a little closer together on the core thread.

So how do they stitch up?  




This is Rainbow Gallery's (left) and Treenway's (right) eyelash threads stitched on a sample bit of 18 count colored canvas.   I did interlocking Gobelin stitches in the top row, then did upright satin stitches and diagonal mosaic in the second row, followed by stem stitches in the bottom row.  They don't look like much unbrushed.  The core threads are sturdy and I didn't have any shedding from either thread.  I used a size 18 tapestry needle but could have used a size 20, although I think size 20 is the smallest eye good for stitching with these threads.  My opinion is that fancy stitches are not a good idea with either brand since the fuzz hides all the stitch texture.  Simple is best when stitching with either of these eyelash-type threads.





I decided the best comparison would be an actual design so I roughly drew two mittens on my colored canvas (No laughing at my artwork!  We aren't perfect here.) and stitched the top of each mitten in knit stitch using two plies of Gloriana's Lorikeet, which is a wool thread.  I then added fake fur at the bottom of each mitten with the Rainbow Eyelash on the left and the Treenway Eyelash on the right using simple satin stitches on the diagonal.  Again, it doesn't look like much unbrushed, but I wanted you to get a good look at what you'll see when stitching with this stuff.  By the way, I used one strand of each thread in my size 18 tapestry needle.  So what does it look like fluffed?





Here you go!  The Rainbow Eyelash is the long lush white fluff on the left; Treenway Eyelash is the shorter, creamier, rougher look on the right.  Make sure you match the right shades of white if you are doing a Santa using the Treenway Eyelash.  If you use the Treenway (right side above) for a Santa's eyebrows and then choose a stark white for Santa's fur cap, the Treenway will look dirty next to a stark white.  You can see how the two colors don't play well together in the above photo.

Fluffing with just your needle or finger isn't enough in my opinion. You have to use a brush of some sort to see the full effect.  I used my Judy's Boo-boo stick (a new toothbrush will work just fine) and brushed  down toward the bottom of the photo fairly hard around 10-12 times. I stopped when it looked the way I wanted. The fluff disarranges itself easily so if you are doing something that will be handled a lot you'll need to rebrush into the look you want periodically.  Some of the Rainbow Eyelash fluff came off on my boo-boo stick, too. Neither thread sheds if you only use about an 18 inch length to stitch an area only an inch long and half an inch high, but if it is brushed hard some of the fluff comes away.





Both threads are easy to work with. I used a size 18 needle but I probably could have used a 20. The eyelash threads go through the eye of the needle well. The cores are both solid.  I like both threads. They are great for fur and hair and beards.  It's possible you might want to trim the Rainbow Eyelash some but trim as if it is turkey work, only a little bit at a time.

In conclusion, these are both great threads.  The one you buy depends on the final look you want and the color you want.  Treenway Eyelash can be purchased from the company's website.  It is available in 13 colors, mostly neutrals plus orange, red, lime and purple.

Rainbow Eyelash is available from many needlepoint stores.  It comes in 18 colors, half neutrals but also two shades of pink, baby blue, red, dark amethyst and lime.

Gary has a brief review of Rainbow Eyelash on his Fiber Talk show, starting at time marker 16.23.  He and Vonna show it on cross stitch and needlepoint fabrics and talk about how it compares to Wisper and Angora.

Kudos to both thread companies for providing us so many great things to use on our projects.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright October 4, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.
. All rights reserved.

Saturday, November 20, 2021

Tony Minieri Yearly Sale Starts Today

Warm up your credit cards, folks!  Tony Minieri's annual sale begins today and ends December 11th.

Here is Tony's website. 
https://www.tonyminieri.com/kazoos-store

You will be able to choose between his many digital download stitch guides and the lovely beaded laying tools, counting pins, magnets and chatelaines. There are even note cards from Tony's amazing charted original designs.

Please remember to use the PASSWORD exactly as shown to get the thirty percent off discount:
KAZOO-2021

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 1, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Friday, November 19, 2021

Ten Reasons to Use a Tapestry Frame

What's a tapestry frame?  In the United States we call them scroll frames.  Jolly Red is a UK company that sells needlepoint (tapestry if you are British) kits and they also do finishing, so they have a strong interest in the pieces they finish being square.  They sell tapestry frames, too.

By the way, Bush Tucker Trials appear to be challenges involving eating bugs.  I'd hide behind my scroll frame during those, too!

Fried grasshoppers dipped in chocolate, anyone?

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright October 26, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Thursday, November 18, 2021

Facebook Changes

Facebook has implemented changes to public groups that allow non-members to join without vetting.  Facebook also now allows non-members to post in public groups.  They see this as a way to make groups more accessible but group admins see this as removing spam blocking tools.  Therefore many groups are going private where these rules don't apply, at least not yet.

What does this mean to you?  Groups that are no longer public, like Needlepoint Nation and many others, can't be visited by non-members.  So links to Facebook photos in such groups only work if you a) have a Facebook account and b) are logged into it. 

This means a lot of links that used to work no longer do.   This does not mean that anything you post to NP Nation is private, however.  Any of the 17,000+ members can share your photos you post to the group to anyone.  And many often do without asking.  

Sorry, but there's no way around these changes.  Facebook is forcing this on all public groups.  These new rules will be rolled out across all public groups over the next few months.  

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 18, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Treasured Techniques by Sandy Arthur

Sandy Arthur has a new book out--Treasured Techniques.  https://sandyarthur.blogspot.com/2021/10/summer-is-officially-gone-at-arthur.html

It's sixty-five pages of interesting techniques.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright October 22, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

Kimberly Has a New Website!

Are you a fan of Kimberly's work?  You'll be thrilled to hear she has a new website!  It's called A Kimberly Design and features both her needlepoint and her paintings.

Kimberly's work is available all over but Bedecked and Beadazzled often has the most canvases in stock as they are Kimberly's distributor.  She also teaches all over.  Hopefully her website, which is still under construction, will have a section for her classes so folks can join in and learn from one of the most inventive stitchers working today.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright October 21, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, November 16, 2021

A Needle Minder For Immune Deficiency Research

Are you a fan of Ruth Schmuff's Bedecked and Beadazzled or of the blog Sheena Stitches?  If so, you'll want to hear about the fund raiser Ruth and Sheena are teaming up on. 

Severe Immune Deficiency really puts a crimp in one's style.  If you want to help, follow the link to buy a needle minder that will make a tiny difference.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright October 21, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Monday, November 15, 2021

A History of Needlepoint

Thorn Alexander has posted what they call "A Quick History of Needlepoint" on their blog. It's a fun read.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright October 21, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Sunday, November 14, 2021

A Profile of Kaffe Fassett

Ehrman Tapestry has updated their website with a new profile of Kaffe Fassett.  There are lots of videos to watch about a man who has dominated the needlepoint, knitwear, and fabric worlds with his unique mastery of color.

If you aren't familiar with the kits of his work Ehrman sells, you can click on "View All" at the very bottom of the page and see what Ehrman has available now from his designs.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright October 20, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Saturday, November 13, 2021

Need a Bargello Pillow?

Need a colorful Bargello pillow that you don't have to stitch yourself?

These are stitched in the UK and the shipping is free.  

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright October 18, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Friday, November 12, 2021

Tomorrow's Local Needlepoint Shop Day 2021

Tomorrow, Saturday, November 13, is Local Needlepoint Shop Day!

Check to see what the shops in your area are planning so you can join in the fun.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright September 5, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Thursday, November 11, 2021

New Self-Finishing Ornament Holders

Planet Earth has new self-finishing round ornaments with bows that come in ten colors.  These are available in two sizes to display either four inch or three inch designs.  The bows are removable.
https://www.bristlythistle.com/self-finishing-products

Many thanks to Bristly Thistle for the information.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollo
 Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com 
nd at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright October 18, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, November 10, 2021

A Profile of Ernest Thesiger, Actor and Embroiderer

Thanks to the Needlepointer, I discovered the British actor Ernest Thesiger was a well-known needlepointer and embroiderer.  

It's fun to rediscover our history as needlepointers.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright October 16, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, November 9, 2021

Breaking News: A New Book from Brenda Hart UPDATED




I use Brenda Hart's stitch books more than any other I own so I was THRILLED to hear she has a new book out.  I'll do a review once I get my hands on a copy.

UPDATE:  Bedecked and Beadazzled will have copies shortly.  I understand The West in Tucson will, too.

UPDATE #2:  Homestead Needle Arts has posted a short description and a photo of typical diagrams on their website and in their e-newsletter.


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright November 9, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

ANG Seminar 2021 Virtual Exhibit

At last ANG has posted fifty-six photos from the 2021 Seminar's Exhibit online!  

So pour your favorite beverage and watch the slideshow on their home page.  You can read more about the pieces on this page, although the ribbons (if any) they won are not listed.

You can also read a more detailed description plus the stitcher's artistic statement here.  This is organized alphabetically by the stitcher's last name so you'll need that to find the entry you want to learn more about.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright October 7, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Monday, November 8, 2021

Beginner Kits for Victorian Cross Stitch

Elizabeth Bradley now has what they call starter kits for learning Victorian Cross Stitch.  They are small, inexpensive projects that will get you familiar with Victorian cross stitch before you tackle one of their larger projects.

There are six floral designs based on some of their larger pieces.  The designs are 3x5 inches, but if you add more background to make them 3 1/2 x 7 inches, you can finish them as glasses cases.  

Elizabeth Bradley's website has videos for both right handed and left handed stitch that demonstrate how to do Victorian cross stitch and how to use the stitch to create a vertical line for stems, etc.  There are diagrams for both versions of the stitch, too.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright October 12, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved