Sunday, July 31, 2022

Stitch Library Project Kits

Textured Treasures now has kits available for their Stitch Library Project.

Check with their Facebook page for more information.  The designer is in Ottawa so there may be some minor shipping delays to the USA.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 8, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Saturday, July 30, 2022

Tote Bag Letter Patches

Mimi in Stitches and Stitch Stash are collaborating on letters for totes so you can spell out words or initials on your tote bag.   Lettering comes in patriotic colors, florescent colors and in blue/grays.  The letters are availble in two sizes.

The letters are small so you can quickly stitch a phrase, then send the finished letters to the shop to have them put on a tote for you.  They'll work with you to find a tote that coordinates with your lifestyle and the letters are customizable, too.  It's a fun way to showcase your stitching and your personal style.  Talk to Patti at Stitch Stash if you are interested.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 8, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Friday, July 29, 2022

50th Anniversary ANG Auction Begins Today UPDATED

The American Needlepoint Guild turns 50 this year and to celebrate, their online auction starts TODAY, July 29, and ends early evening August 1st.  You can browse the goodies up for auction here.  If you want to bid, you need to create a login for yourself first.  Have fun!

UPDATE:  Apparently ANG members will be sent a link to the new auction website.  If you are not a member but want to participate, email auction@needlepoint.org and ask.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 25, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Small Laying Tools from Victoria Whitson

I just discovered Victoria Whitson sells small metal laying tools, perfect for travel or for those with small hands.  I don't know how long these are but your favorite shop can help you with the details if you are interested.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 7, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Thursday, July 28, 2022

Folding Twig Scissors for Travel

Just stumbled across these Japanese folding scissors.  They appear to be around five+ inches long, so they are bigger than most embroidery scissors.

They are called Plus Pen Style Twiggy Scissors.  They fold into the pen shape and are locked when you put the cap on.  They are plastic and I suspect not that durable but they are a great pair of scissors to toss into your stitching bag for travel.  Note that I don't know how airport security would look at these, but they aren't very expensive if they are confiscated.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 7, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

Paint Your Own Canvas From a Chart: The Movie

Abigail Cecile has a tutorial on painting your own canvas from a chart on her Instagram.  It goes over supplies, too, with her recommendations as to what paint and brushes to use, how to add the border, etc.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 7, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

4th of July Cracker Ornament

Ada of Eye Candy shows off her 4th of July cracker design that is in the current (July 2022) Needlepoint Now magazine.  Ada's written the stitch guide for the magazine to go with the painted canvas by her company.

Here is another view of the cracker before it's made up, plus information on how to make a humbug.


Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 7, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Monday, July 25, 2022

Knitting Stitch: The Movie

Needlepoint.com's latest video demonstrates the knitting stitch, which is really easy to work either horizontally or vertically.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 7, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Sunday, July 24, 2022

Light Magnifers from Daylight for Travel

A member of Needlepoint Nation mentioned the Daylight Halo light-magnifiers as perfect for travel as they fold flat.  There are two versions:  one with a cord (often not allowed at seminars and classrooms these days) and one that is rechargable through a USB connection.  Both the Halo Go (rechargeable) and the Halo 5D have a 5 diopter magnifier.  Note that both versions sit on a table.  They don't clamp to your stretcher bars or floor frame.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 29, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Saturday, July 23, 2022

Let's Not Be Afraid to Strand

The latest newsletter from Rittenhouse Needlepoint in Philadelphia talks about Russell's stitching and how it is meditative for him.  Scroll down about half way to read what he has to say.

I'm not sure how long this newsletter will be available so I'm going to summarize what he says.  Russell loves Trio, the three ply silk/wool available from Brown Paper Packages, the company that makes Silk n Ivory for 13 count designs.  Since Russell likes to stitch in hand, if he is working on 18 count, he strands a skein of Trio before he starts to stitch so that he can enjoy the meditative scoop style stitching using tent or basketweave he likes to do.  (He can use Silk n Ivory as it comes off the skein for his 13 count projects.)

Russell says, "Simply put -- most meditative stitchers do NOT want to strand thread because it breaks the meditative rhythm of doing needlepoint."  So if you are working on 18 count, separate your thread into plies all at once, then stitch yourself into a meditative state.  

Your brain, heart and soul will thank you.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 26, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Friday, July 22, 2022

Hermes Scissor Cases and Scissor Ribbons

When Melita told us about Greystone Needlepoint, she failed to mention something the shop sells that I've never seen anywhere else--scissor cases and scissor ribbon fobs made from vintage Hermes scarves.  There are needlepoint bag ribbon charms, too.

The shop also carries fabulous project pouches made from beautiful cottons that feature waterproof linings.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 26, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Thursday, July 21, 2022

Melita Goes to Greystone Needlepoint

Melita and her stitching group just visited Greystone Needlepoint

The shop is in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania and is open by appointment.  Their website is always open, though, and the shop blog has a lot of interviews with stitchers who shop there.  It's a fun browse and of course, there's always online shopping!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 26, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, July 20, 2022

Use Fabric Glue to Repair a Cut Canvas

A Needlepoint Nation member had a cut canvas and asked for help repairing it.

Besides cutting a patch to put behind the canvas, then stitching through both layers, someone posted a tip they learned from Tony Minieri--"Tony Mineri taught me to use fabric glue. Manipulate threads when glue is still sticky then let dry. Works like a charm."

Thanks for the tip, Meri!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 23, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, July 19, 2022

Three Unusual Backgrounds

Poppy Monk Needlepoint's blog talks about three unusual backgrounds to enhance a design.

The article has stitch diagrams for each, making it easy to incorporate one of these stitches into your current project.  Hint:  They don't have to be backgrounds, either.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 20, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Monday, July 18, 2022

New and Different Self-Finishing Can Cozies UPDATED

Evergreen Needlepoint has new self-finishing can cozies (in two colors of leather) and canvases that are sized to fit.  It's a fast, fun project to stitch for that Labor Day party!

UPDATE:  More photos plus a bit of background on the designer, Anna Grabmeier of Evergreen Needlepoint.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 16, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Sunday, July 17, 2022

Curved Beadling Needles from John James

Terry at the Facebook group called Needlepoint Self-Finishers recommends John James curved beading needles.  Terry says they are small so they don't leave big holes and are slightly flexible.

You can also buy larger packets of these to share with your stitching buddies.

I have found the regular curved needles to be difficult to use so I'll be trying these.  

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 24, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Saturday, July 16, 2022

Dot Stitch: The Movie

Needlepoint.com has added another stitch video to their YouTube Channel.  This time they explain how to do dot stitch.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 14, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Friday, July 15, 2022

Profile of an Artist

This profile of Rick Prosser and his needlepoint originals is inspirational and fun.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 14, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Thursday, July 14, 2022

The Inspiration Behind Little Bird Designs

Michelle of Little Bird Designs posted on Facebook about her grandfather's paintings and how they inspired some of her designs.  Use the right side arrow to scroll through the photos of his paintings and the designs she translated into needlepoint.

Want to see more?  Visit the Little Bird Designs website.  Her blog is interesting and exploring the variety of items she's created even more interesting.  Warning:  Michelle sells directly so hide your credit cards first.  Her work is very tempting....

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 13, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, July 13, 2022

How to Do Self-Finishing: The Movie

In case you missed it, Planet Earth Fibers has posted a video on how to insert needlepoint into their self-finishing boxes and ornaments.

It's really easy and this process is how all the brands of self-finishing items work.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 24, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, July 12, 2022

Touring Elsa Williams' Home in California

Pamela was able to tour Elsa Williams' home in California at the 2010 EGA Seminar.  She was took photos and shared them recently on her blog.  

Elsa Williams' needlepoint, crewel and embroidery kits are still available on eBay and Etsy.  I've occasionally seen skeins of her tapestry wool, too.  

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 11, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Monday, July 11, 2022

College Admission Tickets

Nightowl Needlepoint's got an interesting new take on college themed designs:  Admission Tickets.

Currently these are focused on Virginia university and college colors but more are coming.  The rumor mill says Alyssia is doing designs to celebrate Pride Month now, too.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 11, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Sunday, July 10, 2022

Stitch Guides: The Movie

Megan (Needlepoint Clubhouse) and Melissa (The Wool and The Floss) have filmed an Instagram video all about canvases with stitch guides they have in stock in their shops.

Stitch guides mentioned are by Brenda Stofft, Kelly Clark, Eye Candy, Janet Z. Casey, Jenny McAuliffe of Stitch Style, Patricia Sone, Nancy Yedell, Alice Paterson, Danji, Princess and Me, Abigail Cecile, Pepperberry, Melissa Prince and Anne Fisher.

Most guides are incuded with the canvas but some cost extra.  

This is a good introduction to the range of stitch guides available.   Of all the canvases, shown, the Kelly Clark designs are probably the hardest but most of the guides are doable by anyone with a little experience--or a spirit of adventure!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 12, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Saturday, July 9, 2022

Stretcher Bars: The Movie UPDATED

Megan at Needlepoint Clubhouse has posted a tutorial on stretcher bars on the shop's Instagram page.  You'll learn why a door frame comes in handy, what the Corjac set is, and why Megan likes needle minders.

Here is the basic thumbtack/tool set.

Here is the Corjac set, with both tools and the thumbtacks.  (Note that Tanja's in Canada, which might mean a slight delivery delay if you order from her.)

Here's a discussion of stretcher bars.

Want to know about Evertites?  This article from Blog will help.

I have to admit I use heavy duty staples to attach my canvases to my stretcher bars instead of thumbtacks because thumbtacks come out and the spikes bend on me.  Staples just work better for me.  Use what works for you.  No needlepoint police!

UPDATE:  KC Needlepoint has also done a short video about stretcher bars.  There are links to the shop's website to buy stretcher bars, thumbtacks or the Corjac tool set, as well.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 10, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Friday, July 8, 2022

Breaking News: The Needlepointer Has a New Owner

I was surprised to find a notice in my email last night that Edmund, Washington's shop, The Needlepointer, has been sold.  The shop is closed now (the website appears to be still open) and is relocating to Sacramento, CA.   We wish everyone good luck as the shop reinvents itself.

Hug Eddie for me, guys.

Here's what the announcement said:



Dear Stitchers and Friends,
       As some of you may have heard, The Needlepointer is under new ownership and has relocated. Our new owner, Howard Zhou, is very excited to step up and build upon the 29 year legacy of The Needlepointer. Although these are some mighty big shoes, he is not taking on this challenge alone. He has the support of the same team that has been helping you with your needlepoint needs through these past few difficult years.
 
      As the shop settles into its new home, Stephanie, Amanda, and Daniella, want you to know that we have not abandoned you!! We will continue to support you with clubs, questions, canvases, fiber pulls, virtual consultations, and more. We look forward to offering you even better online access to a wider selection of fibers, along with other benefits of a truly integrated and improved system.
 
      We asked Howard why he wanted this shop, and he replied, “This is a business of wellness and happiness. Needlepoint is something we choose to do with our precious time. It’s not just a hobby, it is therapy, it is art, and it brings joy to many people.” Hearing this, we knew that he understood just how important needlepoint is to us and that he would continue to honor and respect this great tradition of ours.

 


     Please continue to email shop@theneedlepointer.com with your questions and concerns. Or call us at 425-252-2277. If we cannot answer, we will respond to your voice mail as soon as we can. For all club inquiries – please continue to emailStephanie@theneedlepointer.com and stay tuned for updates from that address regarding your specific club memberships.

Please note our change of address:
The Needlepointer & Club Inc.
1944 Terracina Drive,
Sacramento CA, 95834


Business Hours
Mon - Fri: 9:00am - 5:00pm



Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright July 8, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

All About French Knots and Jessicas: The Movies

Nancy from Needlepoint.com stars in a video that shows how to make French knots several ways and in combination with other stitches to get various effects.

There's also a video on making round items with Jessica stitch.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 10, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Thursday, July 7, 2022

Acrylic Coasters for Needlepoint

Recently folks on Needlepoint Nation have been asking where to buy acrylic coasters with a space for their stitching.   These shops said they stock acrylic coasters:


Two shops said they have an acrylic finisher.  I'm sure many more do that haven't found the posting yet, so check with your favorite shop.


You can find acrylic coasters on Etsy, too.  My search for "acrylic coasters for embroidery" turned up these:



Warning:  these things may not have enough space for anything dimensional like ribbons or beads.  It's not clear if you can remove your stitching and replace it with something else if you wish, either.  Beware.

If you need something custom, have your favorite shop talk to Kreative Acrylics.  They can do almost anything.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 7, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, July 6, 2022

Thoughts on Choosing a Needlework Stand

Debbie Rowley of DebBee's Designs has posted an essay about choosing a stand for your needlepoint.

It's very helpful, with plenty of tips about what to look for.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright May 14, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, July 5, 2022

Finishing Practice Kits Available

Kelly of Starke Art Designs is not only a needlepoint designer, she's a finisher and is teaching finishing techniques through videos and the Needlepoint Self-Finishers group on Facebook.

Here is her YouTube page of how to finish various types of needlepoint videos.

Here is the link to the Needlepoint Self-Finishers group.  You have to join the group on Facebook to see the postings.

The latest thing Kelly's offering is a practice kit with a simple shaped design and the materials needed to finish it on her Etsy store.  

If you ever wanted to try your hand at finishing, check out Kelly's resources.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 4, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Monday, July 4, 2022

New Collection of Stitch Videos

Needlepoint.com has started adding stitch tutorial videos to their YouTube channel.

They are short, clear and fun, so take a look to see if something useful on your current project has been posted.

By the way, Blog has a series of links to Stitch Diagrams and Resources near the bottom of the home page, just under the thumbnail photo labeled "View My Complete Profile."  I haven't checked for dead links recently (who has the time?!) but there is a lot of great information there to help you learn a stitch.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 4, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Sunday, July 3, 2022

Morgan Julia Designs Exclusives

Third Coast Stitches has a lovely interview with Morgan of Morgan Julia Designs.  Morgan and her sister Brooklynn will be in the shop on July 9 for a meet and greet plus unveiling two shop exclusives.

It's a fun interview and the new Chicago bar cart and the camping design are charming.  Not familiar with Morgan Julia?  Here is the website to explore.  Warning:  You can buy anything in stock directly from the designer....  Hide those credit cards first, folks!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 1, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Saturday, July 2, 2022

Needlepoint Fanny Packs

Stitch by Stitch in Larchmont has fanny packs with inserts for needlepoint, perfect for when you are out and about outside this summer and want your hands free.  These are available in ivory, black, burgundy and navy (although navy appears to be sold out currently).

They also have canvases that are sized 3 x 4 1/2 inches to fit the opening.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 1, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Friday, July 1, 2022

Rittenhouse Videos

Rittenhouse in Philadelphia started out their YouTube channel with thread videos.  It was a great place to learn about various threads.  Now they are branching out with video channels for beginners, finishing, tips, store tours and something called "The Expert Series" which is the thread channel with introductions to all sorts of thread types and brands.

It's a great browse and a good resource.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright April 30, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.