Zumba Poster

Jan's decided to copy a Zumba poster in her classroom as a gift for the teacher.  

She's raiding her stash for the pumpkin and rust colors now that she has copied the design onto needlepoint canvas.

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2023/07/04/zumba-poster/

The background is done and the lettering is underway.

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2023/08/01/getting-close/

Jan says she is done!

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2023/08/14/atlanta-seminar-2023/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 4, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

New Items from Planet Earth

Planet Earth Fiber has new flower and butterfly shaped fobs for self finishing.  

http://blog.planetearthfiber.com/shaped-fobs-monogram-canvases-quick-summer-projects/

Planet Earth also has new lambskin Triangle Cases, meant to be folded into three for carrying tools, glasses and other summery essentials.  

https://www.instagram.com/p/CuLSVxLrWwG/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CuNR3PWuC3s/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CuM2yZDu8eF/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 2, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Bohin's Colorful Embroidery Scissors

Bohin is a French company known for their high quality stitching tools such as needles and seam rippers.  I didn't realize that they have colorful limited embroidery scissors, too.  Needle Nook of La Jolla carries some of their birds, cats, and Russian nesting dolls series.

https://www.needlenook.com/product-category/accessories/scissors/

The Bohin website shows all sorts of fun scissor patterns, including a seahorse, Eiffel Tower, lobster, octupus, squirrel, tiger, etc.  I haven't seen these in person so I can't judge their quality but they are relatively inexpensive.  Some Bohin decorated scissors would make a good present for your stitching bestie or something to tuck in a travel bag.

https://boutique.bohin.com/en/collections/ciseaux-a-broder?page=1

By the way, I found this gorgeous mother of pearl scissors fob while looking for Bohin scissors.

https://www.anitalittlestitches.com/product7079.html

There are two versions, one with a larger clasp for regular scissors.

https://www.anitalittlestitches.com/product7080.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 5, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Self Finishing with Morgan Julia

Morgan Julia has a short article and video on how to self-finish a canvas into one of those Planet Earth self-finishing jewelry boxes.  She is using the jewelry box with the 3x3 inch opening for her demo but the larger boxes are finished the same way.

https://morganjuliadesigns.com/blogs/news/how-to-self-finish-a-needlepoint-jewelry-box

She's right--you can do the self-finishing in 10-15 minutes, depending on how many times you get interrupted and how nervous you are at doing it.  That's a ton better than waiting 7-12 months for the professional finisher to work on your project, right?

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 1, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: The New Kreinik Website is Live

The updated Kreinik website is now live!

https://www.kreinik.com/store/?fbclid=IwAR2-R6YSdRtjAltfus8pPs5LW32waj3N3wrLskGlwNm8qWyzV1pbGnClp0Y

You can choose the Needlework section and skip the home page if you prefer.

https://www.kreinik.com/store/shop-needlework/

If you get the old site, clear your cache and try again.  Remember, you can order directly from the website and then choose a shop to ship to you.  Kreinik works closely with our wonderful retail stores to fill your order.

And here's the link to the page we all look at often--their online color charts!    Pick the chart you are interested in from the blue highlighted lists on the right and it should open for you in a new window.

https://www.kreinik.com/store/shop-needlework/metallic-threads/color-card/Downloadable-Color-Charts.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 25, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Fixing a Tent Stitch Over Two Intersections

Lori at Waste Knot shows how to fix a common mistake--creating a tent stitch over two intersections instead of one.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CuCuy3vA6gr/

She uses two tools:  A Stitcher's Best Friend and Waste Knot Scissors.  You can pick these up from Waste Knot (www.wasteknot.com) or find them elsewhere.  Needlepoint.com has a little video showing how they use the Stitcher's Best Friend on their website.

https://needlepoint.com/collections/needlepoint-accessories/products/rg1822

The Waste Knot scissors (no relationship to the shop Waste Knot) are from Rainbow Gallery and are curved to help cut stitches in ripping out.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/1383992935/waste-knot-scissors-curved-blade

Thanks for the demo, Lori!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 28, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Needlepoint Now Sells Reprints

Reading about Melita's adventures yesterday, I discovered that Needlepoint Now magazine is selling reprints of some of the most popular charts from back issues.

https://www.needlepointnow.com/product-category/project-reprints/

All were quite popular a few years back and are still terrific designs that have timeless appeal.  By the way, here is what the late Gayle Bickell's "Pieces of Eight" looks like.

http://www.caron-net.com/oct00files/oct00mag.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 28, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Lois Caron Has Died

The National Academy of Needle Arts has announced the death of Lois Caron, whose CARON Collection of threads (Watercolours, Wildflowers, Waterlilies, Soie Crystale and many more) has enlivened our stitching for decades.

https://www.spearmillerfuneralhome.com/obituary/Lois-Caron?fbclid=IwAR39mmWGwsBiSsDFfTw-bTwezNxxyNOvHn-2NnmjpPjl53TgZSFpN-31Zmc

Godspeed, Lois, and thank you.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 24, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Melita Tackles Imperial Topaz

Melita and her local ANG chapter are going to work Sue Reed's "Imperial Topaz" chart as a project next.  Melita is changing the colors.

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2023/06/27/imperial-topaz-by-sue-reed-but-in-rainforest/

The center start is quite promising.

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2023/07/09/center-area-a-imperial-topaz-by-sue-reed-in-rainforest/

The background behind the center is very attractive.

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2023/07/16/center-area-a-completed-imperial-topaz-by-sue-reed/

Area B is next.  It frames the center nicely.

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2023/09/25/area-b-for-imperial-topaz-by-sue-reed/

Melita is doing the pattern couching border around the central rectangle now.

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2023/11/12/pattern-couching-for-imperial-topaz-by-sue-reed/

Melita found the use of Serendipity Stitch, which makes three colors look like five shaded, very interesting.

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2023/12/10/serendipidy-used-to-add-shading-to-imperial-topaz-by-sue-reed/

I think this is done!

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2023/12/23/corners-of-imperial-topaz-by-sue-reed/

No, not quite.

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2024/02/01/borders-for-imperial-topaz-by-sue-reed/

If you are interested, here is the original model from the Needlepoint Now website where you can buy the chart for only $3 USD.

https://www.needlepointnow.com/product/imperial-topaz-by-susan-reed/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 28, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Speedy Nutcrackers

Coco Frank Studio has two small nutcrackers that are a very quick stitch.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CtwpqetL4qm/

And to prove how fast this project is, she's posted a video on how to finish them yourself.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ct1MFqTsjKw/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 24, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The English Wildflower Basket is Underway

Brenda has started working on "English Wildflower Basket" from Kirk and Bradley, using Jinny Barney McAuliffe's stitch guide.

https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2023/06/english-wildflower-basket-62423.html

This is the finished product sticking to Jinny's guide.  I'll update this article as Brenda works on this piece which she plans to use as a teaching model for her ANG chapter.

https://needlepoint.com/products/ebdkb1355

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 24, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Christmas Ribbon Sampler

Brenda has picked up a chart from Mindy English featuring Mindy's "Christmas Ribbon Sampler."

https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2023/06/ribbon-christmas-sampler-62223.html

This piece is on 14 count needlepoint canvas and uses lots of reds and greens in DMC cotton floss.  I'll add to this article once Brenda starts stitching.  Right now she's just outlined all the ribbons.  You can see Mindy English's finished model here, at the very bottom of the page.

https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/p/in-process-projects.html

Brenda started with the poinsettia.

https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2023/07/ribbon-christmas-sampler-updated-71223.html

Now she's added three rows of "ribbons."

https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2023/07/ribbon-christmas-sampler-updated-72523.html

Two more ribbons are done, a vertical woven white one and a plaid worked on the diagonal.

https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2023/08/ribbon-christmas-sampler-updated-8323.html

Eight ribbons are finished now, which is half the sixteen in the project.  You can really see how the design is developing now.

https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2023/10/ribbon-christmas-sampler-updated-10323.html

Ten of the sixteen ribbons are done.

https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2023/10/ribbon-christmas-sampler-updated-101223.html

Fourteen of the sixteen ribbons are done but the background, some outlining and more wreath work still remain.

https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2023/11/ribbon-christmas-sampler-updated-11223.html

The project is done.  The background colors chosen by the designer are quite interesting.

https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2024/01/ribbon-christmas-sampler-updated-1524.html

And here it is, made up into a pillow.

https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2024/02/ribbon-christmas-sampler-updated-21924.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 22, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

How to Attach Needlepoint to Pottery

Jenya Rose explains how to attach needlepoint to the outside of pottery in this posting on Facebook's Needlepoint Nation.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/6295020670575038/

For those without a Facebook account, Jenya Rose says:

"Some of you asked for instructions for finishing needlepoint onto pottery:
Cut canvas to half inch from stitching, fold under, make all cuts for rounded sections, etc before adding glue. Once you're happy with shape and you see at least 1 stitch in on back (so no canvas is visible on front) use Ailenes Tack Glue and sewing clips to set. 

Make 2 photocopies of design (I did 1 color, 1 b&w). Use 1 to decide on placement, use one as a cutout, tape the outside of template onto vase, sand inside design area (I used a Dremel with stone grinding bit) just to rough up glaze. 

Remove sewing clips, put 1 piece painter's tape across vase so placement is straight. Cover back of canvas with E6000 glue, place. Put photocopy of design on top of canvas and tape across surface to adhere tightly to vase. Leave for 30 min., remove tape and paper. Let cure for 24 hours.
White vase seems best for first time (matches blank canvas in case any is visible)."

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 20, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Rose Leaf Stitch

When it comes to my own stitching, I have favorite stitches I use over and over again.  I love interlocking Gobelin for dog fur, Diagonal Mosaic for slanting stitches on things like cat ears, Double Stitch is great for small areas that need a little extra something to make them stand out, etc.  I know what works for me but that sometimes means I get into a rut and use the same stitch over and over.

So this morning I was excited to learn about a new stitch for leaves called Rose Leaf Stitch.  Mary Corbet has mentioned it several times on her website but somehow I never noticed it.  But who can resist a leaf stitch achieved with cardboard and a crochet needle?!  Especially since it also makes great flower buds....

https://www.needlenthread.com/2013/09/stitch-fun-rose-leaf-stitch.html

https://www.needlenthread.com/2013/10/rose-leaf-stitch-not-a-leaf-but-a-bud.html

I may never use it but it's fun to learn about and who knows...?  It might just be perfect on a canvas I've been meaning to stitch for a while.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 20, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Introducing Gingham Stitchery's Kate Woodward

Gingham Stitchery is doing short interviews on Instagram to introduce their designers and tell us a bit about the inspiration behind their designs.  First up is Kate Woodward.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CtrV0FfvKB7/

You can see Kate's designs on the Gingham Stitchery website.

https://theginghamstitchery.com/

(And if you want a sneak peak at more designs, check out her Instagram.)

https://www.instagram.com/kateawoodward/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 20, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Penny Linn Introduces Acrylic Self-Finishing Coasters UPDATED

Penny Linn Designs is adding 4 inch round and 4x4 square acrylic self finishing coasters with magnetic closures for your ornaments.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CuuTqqUxNtd/

These won't be available until July 18 but I thought you'd enjoy learning more about them.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CuvCuy2sxAa/

Larger and more expensive sizes and styles are planned.  

UPDATE:  More sizes and shapes are now available.

https://pennylinndesigns.com/collections/self-finishing

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 16, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Rittenhouse Has New Owners

Rittenhouse has new owners!  Stephen and Russell still have a minority ownership in their baby but three new folks are taking over the business with exciting plans for the future.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CusDxkFJjn9/?img_index=1

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 16, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Two Monogram Alphabets from Amy Bunger

Somehow I totally missed the fact that Amy Bunger has created two monogram alphabet charts.

https://www.amysgoldenstrand.com/store/p3629/Interwoven_Alphabet_Chart_Pack.html

These diagrams show you how to interweave letters to create your own personalized monogram.  One alphabet has letters than are 30 threads high while the other is only 20 threads high.  

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 18, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Tracy Franklin Interview

Textile Artist has a wonderful interview with the British embroiderer Tracy Franklin.

https://www.textileartist.org/tracy-a-franklin-a-break-with-tradition/

I first noticed Tracy through her goldwork but she does crewel, pulled work and many other types of embroidery which you can see on her website.

https://www.tracyafranklin.com/

If you want to read more about Tracy and her embroidery, this older article from Piecework magazine may be of interest.

https://pieceworkmagazine.com/postcard-from-scotland-durham-cathedral-a-conversation-with-embroiderer-tracy-a-franklin/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright May 29, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

News about Hedgehog and SuZy Murphy Books

The New Jersey Needle Artists chapter of ANG has published their June newsletter (I know it's July but I had plenty of articles already written and ready to publish before this came out) and its full of fun stuff!

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2023/06/17/whats-happening-at-njna-6-17-23/

You can see the new retro round travel ornaments from Hedgehog Needlepoint on their website.  These are 4 inches in diameter and are printed, I think on 18 count canvas.

https://hedgehogneedlepoint.com/

I'm particularly happy to see that Rainbow Gallery is distributing SuZy Murphy's books again.  They are not the latest thing but they are very useful!  People who want to see actual stitched samples will be really pleased by these.  Samples of the stitches are in the back of most (if not all) of these books.  Note that you can find copies of these on Amazon and eBay but they are usually at inflated prices.  It's best to have your local shop order from Rainbow Gallery for you so you get a better deal.

https://www.rainbowgallery.com/product-category/books/

There is plenty of class and retreat news as well, plus sales and exclusive canvases at some of our favorite shops. As always, many of the photos have other photos hidden on the side so click on the side arrows to see everything.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 18, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Textured Treasures Website is Live!

Congratulations to Karen Dudzinski whose Textured Treasures website is now live!

https://texturedtreasures.ca/

The name doesn't ring a bell?  Karen does intricate geometric charts and also sells kits for those who don't have easy shop access.  Stuff like this--

https://texturedtreasures.ca/product/cherith-kit/

Check the description as some of the Textured Treasures designs are on linen while others are on needlepoint canvas.  Karen's in Canada but I haven't heard of any delays in shipping kits and charts across the border.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 18, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Introducing The Gingham Stitchery

The Gingham Stitchery is a new design line.  Here's a bit about their three designers, Amelia Bond Designs, Kate Woodward and Kirkland Design Studio. (Use the side arrows to see all the photos.)

https://www.instagram.com/p/CthuSlKLLfD/

Here is the launch video, explaining how the design line started and its relationship to Needlepoint Clubhouse, plus plans for the future and a great sneak peak at the various things available wholesale now for your favorite shop to order for you from Gingham Stitchery.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CthiqEFRRhY/

And here's the website!  Have fun browsing, then call your favorite shop to order for you from Gingham Stitchery.

https://theginghamstitchery.com/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 16, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Straw Silk Color Palettes

Silk Road Fibers has collaborated with Needlepoint Clubhouse to introduce Straw Silk palettes of five shades of colors.  Currently there are blues, pinks, greens, reds and a set of neon bright colors.  (More are coming.). These are different colors than what are in their regular line of Straw Silk and all five on a card coordinate.  The five card colors are each half the size of the regular skein (6 yards in each color of the five color set versus 11+ yards in the regular skein) .  These are brand new and just now arriving in the shops.

https://www.needlepointclubhouse.com/products/silk-road-fiber-color-palettes?_pos=1&_sid=a0edf8ea9&_ss=r

If you aren't familiar with Straw Silk, this Needlepoint.com video is a good introduction.

https://needlepoint.com/blogs/needlepoint-know-how/all-about-straw-silk-fibers

The Silk Road Fibers website shows all 102 of the regular colors if you want to browse.  

https://silkroadfiber.com/straw-silk-fiber/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 10, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Mary Corbet Talks DIY Framing

Periodically Mary Corbet talks about framing her embroidery pieces.  She is an embroidery teacher so she has a lot of samples of her work she frames.  Framing can be wildly expensive so Mary prefers to do it herself.  In this article she either links to older articles about framing or talks about her own framing experience.  It's a great resource if you want to try framing your own work.

https://www.needlenthread.com/2023/06/tips-for-framing-embroidery.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 13, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Watching Two

I've been busy getting Watching on stretcher bars and pulling a ton of threads that might (or might not) work for this piece.  My normal procedure when I pull a canvas from my stash is to find any thread that appears to be a similar color to my painted canvas and put them all in a box that sits near my stitching chair.  That way I have plenty of choices when I get ready to stitch an area.

Normally I start with the background, but I've listened to the Fiber Talk interview with Gay Ann Rogers several times (link below in case you haven't caught it yet) and I'm altering my usual approach slightly to try out some things Gay Ann mentioned.
http://wetalkfiber.com/2018/08/12/fiber-talk-with-gay-ann-rogers-ii/

I'm going to start with the face of the woman and probably will stitch her arm nearest the turtle right after that.  And then I probably will stitch her hair.  Then I will work on the green water which is the background of this design.

To read other articles on Watching (official title is "Woman Watching Turtle" from Colors of Praise—the photo is at the top of the right hand column), use the search box at the upper left corner to search "watching."  If all goes well—and I can't promise that because Blogger is getting flaky—all the articles written about this design should appear.

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

T-stitch and Its Uses

Lori at Waste Knot talks t-stitch, with a diagram and several great examples of how t-stitch adds a lot to various painted canvases by making a white sky blue, a suitcase tweed, and to make the background recede.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CtO75hfgpaV/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 10, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

NAN's 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award Granted

The National Academy of Needlearts has announced that the 2023 winner of their Lifetime Achievement Award is Lynn Payette.  If you click on the tiny tree trunks image in the upper left corner of the collage of her works, you can view all 26 designs in a larger format.  They do take a while to load, however.  Be patient. The show is worth the wait.

https://needleart.org/gallery/lifetime-achievement-award/lynn-payette/

I'm impressed that most years NAN gives this award.  There are truly an amazing number of needle teachers and artists among us.  Take some time to explore the links to see them all.

https://needleart.org/gallery/lifetime-achievement-award/?fbclid=IwAR2UqyyOVn5sazefPR_jpZZGpaO9ltOQTLuFmQ7FvIq45GZdOebGGM4a-Ig

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 8, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A Free Summertime Design from EyeCandy

Ada Hayden of Eye Candy has released a free summery design for your poolside stitching.

http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/2023/06/time-for-eyecandys-summer-freebie.html

Here's a direct link to the chart which is designed as a 5x7 purse insert.  You'll need 10 mm sequins and a few 5mm ones for the edges.

https://www.eyecandyneedleart.com/downloads/InitialPurseInsert.pdf

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 7, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Tony's On Break

Tony Minieri Designs just posted Tony himself is taking a short break to have a hip replacement next Monday, July 10.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=647426707411308&set=a.406238428196805

Hopefully he does his rehab faithfully and is back on his normal teaching schedule soon!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 5, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

What Would Suzie Do?

Suzie Vallerie of Enriched Stitch has started a new feature on the shop's Instagram account called What Would Suzie Do?   Suzie shows off three or more canvases, outlines the main stitches she recommends in the stitch guides she's writing for them, and shows the threads she is going to recommend. Sometimes she even shows off pillow fabric and trim ideas. It's a great way to preview a stitch guide to see what stitches and threads are going to be used so you have a general idea if that is something you would want to stitch.  The What Would Suzie Do? postings appear each Wednesday and they are Instagram only.

https://www.instagram.com/enrichedstitch/

You can browse all the kits that Suzie's assembled on the Enriched Stitch WWSD page.  You can order just the canvas and guide or also pick up the thread and embellishments, too.

https://enrichedstitch.myshopify.com/collections/featured-on-instagram

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 29, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved

Breaking News: JJ Needlepoint Designs

Congratulations to Jane and Jennifer for their brand new website, JJ Needlepoint Designs!

https://jjneedlepointdesigns.com/

Jane recently retired from owning Two's Company in South Carolina.  Now she and her daughter Jennifer have started a wholesale needlepoint business, with Jane's wonderful series and customer work available for your favorite shop to order.  DO NOT miss her cats and dogs of the month.  These are classics!  You can see them under the "Standup Series" drop down menu.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 1, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Liz Goodrick-Dillon Has Died

A friend just posted to Instagram that Liz Goodrick-Dillon died in June.  Liz is the genius behind Tapestry Tent, which is now part of the Susan Roberts family of designs.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/elizabeth-goodrick-dillon-obituary?id=52283849

Her work was beautiful so I am glad Susan Roberts will continue to sell her work. I'm also glad that her daughter Ashley Dillon-Davis designs for Susan Roberts, too.  The legacy lives on.

My sympathies to Liz's family and friends.  She was a great talent.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 4, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Jewelry Canvases from Colors of Praise

Colors of Praise is marketing these small ovals to be finished as jewelry or patches for your clothing.

https://treschicstitchery.com/needlepoint-jewelry---colors-of-praise/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 4, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Pointing It Out Talks Silk Ribbons

The Pointing It Out Podcast talks about silk ribbons.  You'll learn the various brands, widths, colors, and more.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6GrLvX8p4dw

Want to browse ribbon brands?  Here are the websites (in alphabetical order) for the brands discussed.

https://dinkydyes.com/collections/4mm-ribbon

https://dinkydyes.com/collections/7mm-ribbon

http://www.glorianathreads.com/Silk_Ribbons.html

https://www.rainbowgallery.com/product/splendor-silk-ribbon/

http://riversilks.com/

https://www.treenwaysilks.com/productlist.php?category=1

The silk ribbon embroidery book they recommend is A-Z of Ribbon Embroidery.  Inspirations publishes it and sells it so their website has lots of glimpses of the inside of the book.  Shop around as prices vary.

https://www.inspirationsstudios.com/product/a-z-of-ribbon-embroidery/

This is the tiny pliers that Megan uses.

https://www.needlepointclubhouse.com/products/mini-chain-nose-plier?_pos=1&_sid=7b54c01bb&_ss=r

Rittenhouse sells an assortment of chenille needle sizes from

https://myneedlepoint.com/chenille-needles-assortment.html

I prefer my tekobari for ribbon work but any laying tool with a blunt, smooth tip will work.  I think this is the Rainbow Gallery ribbon laying tool.

https://store.stoneycreek.com/petite-ribbon-laying-tool-assorted-colors-p36983.aspx

https://www.homesteadneedlearts.com/catalog/tools-needles-to-lamps/ribbon-laying-tool-by-rainbow-gallery/

If you are interested in thread winders, there are tons available.  Most are imitation mother of pearl these days.

https://treschicstitchery.com/products/Faux-Mother-of-Pearl-Thread-Winder.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 4, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Virtual Bead Bar

I love using beads and sequins on my needlepoint, at least occasionally, but what do you do if your favorite shop doesn't stock these things?  You have to shop online, which can be hard.  However, I have several favorite places to browse for just the right thing.  They are listed alphabetically.  

First up, Bedecked and Beadazzled carries all sorts of beads and sequins.  Their website allows you to choose the sort of thing you are looking for and the sample photos are clear and large.

https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/beads/

Cartwright's Sequins carries sequins only but what a selection!  You can search by size, by finish and by shape.  

https://www.ccartwright.com/sunshop/

Needlenook of La Jolla carries most of the line of Sundance beads, sequins and findings.  The photos are good and the organization helpful so you can easily find the sort of thing you want.

https://www.needlenook.com/product-category/sundance-beads-2/

SJ Designs carries all sorts of beads, pearls and vintage items. Susan Johnson also occasionally has unusual items like brass charms or metal spangles.  She has a good stock of the discontinued Swarovski bicones---and they are on sale!

https://sj-designs.net/shop/beads-pearls-sew-ons/

Of course the large online bead stores like Fire Mountain Gems or Shipwreck Beads are a good source for items.  Etsy carries beautiful handmade lampwork beads and these wonderful little snowflakes.  

https://www.etsy.com/listing/1318788342/silver-snowflakes-2-count-oo-metal?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=britches+and+bows&ref=sr_gallery-1-2&organic_search_click=1

But for standard embellishments, the above sources will cover ninety-nice percent of your embellishment needs.  

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 4, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Design Your Own Dreidel

Ridgewood Needlepoint has put together a booklet explaining how to design your own dreidel.

https://ridgewoodneedlepoint.com/2023/05/design-your-own-dreidel-2/

It's a fun idea and one that will expand your creativity.  Contact the shop to get the booklet.

https://ridgewoodneedlepoint.com/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright May 11, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.