Finishing Button Covers for A Tote Bag

Patti of Patti Paints demonstrates self finishing using button covers that will go on the front of a Target cane tote.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C5i4A9PrLDA/

Here are the three inch button covers Patti sells from her website.

https://www.pattypaintsneedlepoint.com/product-page/metal-self-finishing-button

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright April 10, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

NAN's Lifetime Achievement Award Goes to

The National Academy of Needlearts has awarded their 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award to Dawn Cornish Donnelly!  Congratulations!

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=901795471987304&set=a.562869925879862

You can get to know Dawn a little and see some of her needle art on the NAN website.

https://needleart.org/gallery/lifetime-achievement-award/dawn-donnelly/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 18, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Introducing Town Stitch

We have a new designer with a new website--Town Stitch by Melissa Townsend.  She opens with a bang with her Christmas village canvases.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10233671340464735&set=gm.8054249821318772&idorvanity=108537025890131

https://townstitch.com/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 21, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: The Needlepoint Clubhouse Has New Space

Megan of The Needlepoint Clubhouse in St. Louis just announced she has new space--

https://www.instagram.com/p/C_G-cB4vdha/

Don't get excited just yet.  The larger space and the cottage next door (available for retreats) won't be ready for a while yet.  Lots of renovation and decorating have to come first.  I anticipate it'll be the Winter of 2025 before the shop gets settled in their new location.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 26, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

NJNA Newsletter Fun and Games

It's that time again--NJNA's monthly newsletter is out.  

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2024/08/24/whats-happening-at-njna-8-24-24/

It's full of ANG news, of course, as this is one of the American Needlepoint Guild's chapters.  Folks are going to the ANG Seminar in September and there will be an ANG online auction in September as well.  There's thread and designer news, new leather colors coming for the Hedgehog Needlepoint luggage tags, new charts and a class from Needle Delights, stitched greeting cards, plus the newest tool from The Wool and the Floss (a magnetic holder for wooden laying tools).

https://woolfloss.com/products/laying-tool-minder-by-tools-of-the-trade?_pos=1&_sid=821a258a7&_ss=r

In other words, a good time is to be had from reading this jewel.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 25, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Fair (and Other) Ribbon Winners

Now that summer's on the way out, it's time to celebrate all the state and county fair winners I've managed to collect!

Novellyn took a first in the Needlepoint Division at the Los Angeles County fair.

https://www.facebook.com/gardengateneedlepoint/posts/pfbid02AjzKUGjgdeD4KWzptvsTctkLquut9f1CYtwfCqiesuhvgJDu2RqhawJkq1LQGviSl

Val won a first and a judge's choice ribbon for this wonderful Gay Ann Rogers design, also at the Los Angeles County fair.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=978677564044764&set=a.600747275171130

Mercedes was invited to show her work at the juried Annual Mackinac Juried Art Show and also won Honorable Mention.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/7704592252951199/

Candace just learned to needlepoint and already she has a blue ribbon!

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10234412945648677&set=gm.7947006145376474&idorvanity=108537025890131

Caroline won a blue ribbon for her soccer ball standup she stitched AND finished.  You can see it in the background over her shoulder.  Use the right side arrow to see The Needlepoint Finisher's two blue ribbon pieces (Halloween house and Christmas stocking).

https://www.instagram.com/p/C-wPgTRt6Hq/?g=5&img_index=1

Tina shows off fair winners at her fair.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/8050104195066668/

Sherry won a blue ribbon for her Bargello purse.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1454083911975127&set=gm.8049614371782317&idorvanity=108537025890131

Emily got a blue ribbon, too!

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10161485378723340&set=gm.8054494904627597&idorvanity=108537025890131

Delphine racked up two blue ribbons at the West Virginia state fair.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/8061904357219985/

Mara entered this in two fairs and got two ribbons!

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=520806286997554&set=gm.8055291677881253&idorvanity=108537025890131

Then this went in three fairs and got Mara three more ribbons.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=520806286997554&set=gm.8055291677881253&idorvanity=108537025890131

Seven of the eleven pieces Lisa sent to the Kentucky state fair got ribbons!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/8062320533845034/

Jeanne was very productive this year.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/8077991905611230/

Trudy got a second place ribbon!

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10227942334278550&set=gm.8121965754547178&idorvanity=108537025890131

Susan got two blue ribbons at the Oregon State Fair.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10224274686286452&set=gm.8141018642641889&idorvanity=108537025890131

Joni won Best in Show at the Colorado State Fair.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=3851120998450115&set=gm.8145993788811041&idorvanity=108537025890131

Karen brought home a blue ribbon from the Oklahoma State Fair!

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=8923531710994357&set=gm.8197594836984269&idorvanity=108537025890131

So did Lin and she also got a Best in Show at the Oklahoma State Fair!

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10233170523703593&set=gm.8197380780339008&idorvanity=108537025890131

More from Lin in Oklahoma.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/8251183368292082/

Katrina did her first ever finishing and won a blue ribbon!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/8265289816881437/

Mary won a Champion Ribbon!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/8258623797548039/

Carol brought home all sorts of ribbons from the Texas State Fair.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/8332077833535968/

Taylor and her friend Stacey won big!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/8359238444153240/

Kudos to everyone.  No matter how many or few ribbons you brought home, you promoted needlepoint to the world and that makes you a Best in Show in my book.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 13, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Summer Challenge 2024

Jan Sprague, the Stitch Lady, is designing an original project as part of her local chapter of ANG's Summer Challenge.  They all will design a small original piece, no larger than 6 inches, and choose the colors.

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2024/07/28/summer-challenge-2024/

Jan has decided on red, navy and yellow for her star inside a circle design. 

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2024/08/03/summer-challenge-the-beginning/

Making sure everything lined up properly took some work.

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2024/08/24/summer-challenge-2024-2/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 4, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

How to Make Beautiful Eyelets

Ruth of Bedecked and Beadazzled has posted a short video on Instagram showing how to make lovely smooth eyelets.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C6MZkZ4vYsF/

She makes it look so easy!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright April 26, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Kreinik's Discontinued Threads

Kreinik's Instagram reminds us that occasionally they discontinue a thread color because it doesn't sell or they can't get the materials to make it any more.

https://www.instagram.com/kreinikthreads/?g=5

If you can't find a Kreinik metallic and worry it might be discontinued, here's the official list of everything that's not available now.

https://www.kreinik.com/store/shop-needlework/how-to/Metallic-Thread-c-497/discontinued-Kreinik-metallic-colors.html

If your thread is no longer being made, check with your favorite shop to see if they have any.  They can also ask if there's any stashed away at Fleur de Paris.  Also ask all your stitching friends on social media.  Someone somewhere likely has a spool they'll give you.  Needlepointers are the nicest folks alive!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 13, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Chart It-Monograms from Sara Trucksess

KC Needlepoint just announced a brand new book of monograms from Sara Trucksess of SCT Designs called Chart It.

https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/blogs/news/chart-it-a-brand-new-book-from-sara-trucksess-of-sct-designs

KC Needlepoint is both a shop and a distributor of needlepoint designers, including SCT.  You can read a bit more about Sara here.

https://kcndesigners.com/blogs/behind-the-canvas/meet-sara-trucksess-of-sct-designs

Curious about Sara's designs now?  Go here--

https://kcndesigners.com/collections/sct-designs

I'm particularly fond of Woodland Foxes but you probably know SCT for Sara's holiday animal ornaments or her various crests, perfect for that monogram you pick from her new book.

https://kcndesigners.com/products/woodland-foxes?_pos=1&_sid=eb8a8486d&_ss=r

https://kcndesigners.com/search?type=product,article,page&q=holiday%20animals*

https://kcndesigners.com/products/lobster-crest?_pos=5&_sid=af74e9de5&_ss=r

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 8, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

BREAKING NEWS: Scam Alert

Rittenhouse has discovered a fake website pretending to be the real Rittenhouse!

https://www.instagram.com/p/C-5WLb0xRat/

For those without an Instagram account, I'm quoting this posting in full so you know what to look for when you run across a fake needlepoint shop website.  

"We wanted to alert you to a spoof of our website. 

Our real website is rittenhouseneedlepoint.com. 

Cyber scams are becoming more and more sophisticated. Please be careful and review the actual web address and cross check it from another source such as an email directly from the brand or the brand’s socials. Spoofs are often (but not always) made on less common url’s such as .shop or .global, because these urls are usually available and inexpensive. There will usually be other signs like generic icons (the icon of this fake shop is a gift box instead of our needle logo), lots of typos, lack of product descriptions, only one picture on most product pages or pictures that are slightly off (pixelated, etc), pricing that is too good to be true, lack of contact phone numbers, lots of dead links/404 errors, etc. Most anti-virus programs will protect you from fake sites, so you may want to consider getting protection.

This is much more common in fashion and other industries. It’s disheartening to see our industry now being targeted. It can be difficult to get these fake sites shut down. You can help us, and your fellow needle-pointers, by using Google’s phishing report page to report this website. This will at least stop the fake site from coming up in searches while we work to have it shut down completely.

https://safebrowsing.google.com/safebrowsing/report_phish/?hl=en

Do not visit this site – but please do report it: rittenhouseneedlepoi.shop

Fireside Stitchery has also been spoofed. Please also report, but do not visit: firesidestitchery.shop"

We'll have to work together to get rid of these scam artists.  Follow Rittenhouse's recommendations and let your stitching buddies know if you find a fake version of a real LNS.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 21, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Custom Needlepoint Candles and Monogrammed Straw Hats

The Labors of Love needlepoint store in Atlanta has something totally different -- needlepoint-themed scented candles.

https://www.laborsofloveneedlepoint.shop/shop/Aromatic-Candles.htm

There are three scents in The Needlepoint Collection--Canvas, Needles and Threads.  These are soy candles, made in Georgia with the stitcher in mind.  The shop even sells a glass dome to put over the candle when not in use to keep the dust off.   Clever!

Labors of Love also carries sun hats with a monogrammable top.  The straw hats have a wide brim, are available in three different ribbon colors, and the price includes your custom monogram chart.

https://www.laborsofloveneedlepoint.shop/iishop?form_version=2&search_keyword=sun+hats&image_x=0&image_y=0

(By the way, Love MHB Studio has a video on how to switch the ribbon on your straw hat.)

https://www.instagram.com/p/C-dfEdivBRo/

If you want something unique but still needlepoint-related, looks like Labors of Love's store is the place to shop!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 8, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: New Kreinik Machines on the Way

Fleur de Paris has ordered new machinery to make Kreinik metallics and they should arrive soon.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=910972061073922&set=a.556381386532993

This should speed up delivery of Kreinik to the shops and the other thread manufacturers who dye Kreinik in their own colors, such as ThreadworX.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 17,  2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The August Report from NJNA

The New Jersey Needle Artists Chapter of ANG charms us again with their August 2024 newsletter.

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2024/08/10/whats-happening-at-njna-8-10-24/

Besides the usual new product (a very nice large nylon tote from Penny Linn and a big canvas one from Chaparral), SCT's new charted monogram book, a new designer (DBL Designs, distributed by Atlantic Blue), classes, clubs, a tour of Morgan Julia's new studio space, we learn that KC Needlepoint will do a plain zippered clutch in only three weeks.  Plus Ellen Johnson divides us into four groups according to our needlepoint style.  I'm eclectic.  What are you?

https://www.serendipityneedleworks.com/what-is-your-needlepoint-style/?utm_source=active-campaign&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=blog

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 11, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Meet Sarah Bauer at Stitch by Stitch Larchmont

Stitch by Stitch Larchmont's Stitcher of the Month for August 2024 is Sarah Bauer.  Get to know Sarah and view her stitched pieces that illustrate her journey into the World of Needlepoint at this link--

https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/pages/stitcher-of-the-month-sarah-bauer

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 3, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Adding a Bow: The Movie

Today's brief embellishment lesson is on The Wool and The Floss's Instagram account and demonstrates how to add a bow to your needlepoint.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C-yMiJgP-ZQ/

Treenway silk ribbon is 3.5 mm wide while River Silks' ribbons are 4 mm, 7 mm or 13 mm.  The width doesn't matter.  The process is the same whether you use skinny ribbons or wide ones.  You don't really have to use chenille needles, either, but they do really help as they are sharp and have a nice sized eye for flat ribbon-like threads.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 18, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Planet Earth Shares Clever Finishing

Here's a really clever idea to use a long needlepoint piece on overalls.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C71Jv1xu3SG/

As you can see, those odd shapes can really be show-stoppers!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 5, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Meeting Jeni Sandberg Needlepoint

Megan Holmes of The Needlepoint Clubhouse in St. Louis interviews Jeni Sandberg about her designs in the latest Pointing It Out Podcast.  It's a fun ride hearing about how Jeni came to do what she does today.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lZvfyHvwK8

Jeni Sandberg Needlepoint creates lots of classic designs, particularly for bags and clutches, pillows and key fobs.  You can explore her work on her website, including her acrylic purse handles in various colors and charted alphabets.

https://jenisandbergneedlepoint.com/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 4, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Chart Thief on Etsy

Textured Treasures has discovered that the Etsy shop "BettsVintagePatterns" is selling PDF versions of one of Textured Treasures' charts.  This person is also selling other designers' work as his/her own.  Fortunately, after a lot of folks complained on Karen's behalf, Etsy pulled the sale.  It looks like the seller has stopped all sales, too.  Hopefully this is for good.  

https://www.facebook.com/TexturedTreasuresStitch/posts/pfbid0vTtEmxg3VSaku9nBNS379xxuKg5r3YFroKJ6z6bYgGFQFPvvjQeMzsui7B2FLAN8l

If you want to buy a real Textured Treasures chart, just visit Karen's website.  She sells kits, too.  A friend is stitching From Dusk to Dawn, and it is stunning!

https://texturedtreasures.ca/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 15, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Acrylic Self Finishing Takes the Needlepoint World by Storm

If you haven't been paying a lot of attention to the world of needlepoint, you might have missed all the acrylic boxes, purses, trays and more available for those with finished needlepoint to insert inside them.  Stitch by Stitch Larchmont has posted a lovely long article about all the various things that are available (and naturally they have canvases that will work with each.)

https://manage.kmail-lists.com/subscriptions/web-view?a=SwCMrn&c=01H9XGTJRHYSSZSJCSGZK1PHG3&k=818df9a7ff3a4241af938c526d309c5c&m=01J35FXJJ1VEKMZG32V311G85T&r=3cC9tQ2s

The two new items they carry I haven't seen before are tic-tac-toe boxes...

https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/products/coopers-oak-tic-tac-toe-canvas-and-acrylic-tray-case-and-pieces?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=Acrylic%20Accessories&utm_id=01J35FXJHXT9RR5DGACAE2GRVV&_kx=aciAEP_6-iF8xhuhZaomyeVfXs3OTnBm8ABNyi7AVoeLP-pURN12gtHcuDiqxXhe.SwCMrn

...and matchbox holders with canvases of various famous restaurant or hotels.  Both appear to be bundles of the acrylic and matching canvas that will fit in it.  

https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/products/beverly-hills-hotel-matchbook-bundle?_pos=10&_sid=4638fd342&_ss=r

Of course many many shops carry acrylic items these days and many have access to acrylic manufacturers who will make custom items.  Ask your favorite shop for ideas and help.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 23, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Louise's Needlework To Close in November

Louise's Needlework just announced that the fourth "Louise"-- Jill Elia -- has decided to retire. The shop will close next November, 2024.

https://media.rainpos.com/530/News_Blast_August_2024_Final.pdf

Jill, we'll miss you.  I hope you have a relaxed and happy retirement!  

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright Aug. 15, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Braided Stitch Flower: The Movie

Anjiara demonstrates what she calls braided stitch on a round flower.  It's lovely!  And unusual.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C5-9jrQqNz8/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright April 23, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Mindy Bookmark

Melita scored a great little Mindy bookmark design plus threads and a needle minder, all in a tote, for her birthday. 

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2024/06/01/autumn-leaves-bookmark-by-mindy-threads-and-a-magnet/

I think Mindy's discontinued the bookmarks as I can't find them on her website, but they are easily available in the shops, Etsy and eBay.

https://www.annieandco.com/products/mindy-5j

https://www.ebay.com/itm/265293550504?itmmeta=01HZCF0JJKW0461Q4F2S7D4MA7&hash=item3dc4ba53a8:g:-54AAOSwaXRhLr73&itmprp=enc%3AAQAJAAAA0B0b%2BeOUZOhYazPLgxB9dbV4oN036llmYY4qx4OxEe3jN9jEGx%2Bkt8%2F%2B9XFlcXGxZbkrszSPgcidPqsJRcM8By%2F3DJ%2FoGgzcMOS%2B5P%2BlUkd9WiZ0j0IHbtQtor3bIMt29gmqTgoeuiiTHQBGqqkin5MKhKbylMKFo4QXjvnz5fZZaZ%2BIqGGnL3hIgkfamQLbBrLywP2PdPt58pqhtVrZGazDT1RNJ1n%2BZ9dyI9nE1hpPQkl0qRVBjR%2B7o%2Bh3Ap3IeBEdzUSCHzRei1XA0UaFBx4%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR66pgo_7Yw

https://www.ebay.com/itm/363526693754?itmmeta=01HZCF0JJKYCA2KFTRMTYNVBXW&hash=item54a3e1237a:g:NQsAAOSw4nRhLr2q&itmprp=enc%3AAQAJAAAA8Njx1NEeutulhKJyJUBj1EcgEr5gsOv2YigqxpdgJJ4FBPvPJWz5%2BZZsHP4UAfczcx%2BFd877zm%2FF7PvIQFzxcWSFwzKWz47sTKwkkhF85L%2ByIBRvdFqkFNIUjN7LIljzLWr48V5kqbBEgSE6%2FpNS8cRS7Tuq%2Fol9t%2F3YiKo2O9Z8X%2F5Ih9MlboE%2BOAynjS9e--RpmZVShAbsLzSqsJeYc5i908XQsNZ6kUuyDDnAFNS0BxZ8xQN6ysuUqRcTI4B5MqH6lFw2qKR5udHgRr9U5Ym74xWr59Oxgt99ljJR%2FWoJYPlQhQqMbjGSITXOarCj6g%3D%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR7Cpgo_7Yw

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 2, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

How to Use a Laying Tool: The Movie

Melissa of The Wool and The Floss demonstrates using laying tools on the shop Instagram page.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C7ryC4WPnpc/

This is the wooden laying tool that Melissa is using.  They come in various colors and of course you can get other shapes if you want something smaller, fatter, thinner, etc.  Most shops carry wooden laying tools.

https://woolfloss.com/products/fancy-wood-laying-tool?_pos=1&_sid=85764c225&_ss=r

This is the metal laying tool from Island House that Melissa used.

https://woolfloss.com/products/ihn-metal-laying-tool?_pos=1&_sid=f642fbc50&_ss=r

I have small hands so I really like either a tekobari...

https://bluebonnetstudio.com/kits-and-accessories/tekobari

...or the Best Laying Tool (sometimes called the BLT).  As always, shop around.  Laying tools come in all sizes, shapes, materials and price points.  Many folks like to use a chopstick or even one of those really large metal needles for plastic canvas or even a knitting needle.  You just need something that won't snag your threads that feels good in your hand.

https://woolfloss.com/products/blt-best-laying-tool?_pos=4&_sid=85764c225&_ss=r

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 1, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Back to School with Needlepoint

Jessica of Jessica Tongel Designs is sending her daughter off to college with plenty of needlepoint!

https://www.jessicatongeldesigns.com/needlepoint-blog/needlepoint-and-the-college-student

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 19, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Threadaholic Alert: Silk Wrapped Purl

Ruth Schmuff at Bedecked and Beadazzled has silk wrapped purl sampler kits to order to play with.

https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/product/silk-wrapped-purl-sampler/

You can see what Ruth did with her snippets if you check out the thistle tops in this class she taught--

https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2024/05/who-wants-to-play/

Looks like a cheap way to add dimension to your butterflies, flowers, Halloween costumes, etc. on your next painted canvas.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 1, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A Tour of Susan Roberts Needlepoint

Megan of The Needlepoint Clubhouse in St. Louis visits the Susan Roberts Needlepoint workroom, showing off some great coaster designs from Susan Roberts.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C5WldaBSSWL/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright April 10, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware Needlework Exhibit 2024

Brenda's Needlepoint Studio reminds us that the 2024 Rehoboth Beach Museum needlework exhibit in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware is coming up Sept. 14 - Nov. 10, 2024.  She lists all the deadlines for dropping off and picking up your items, too, plus has a link to the exhibit application form.

https://brendasneedlepointstudio.blogspot.com/2024/07/rehoboth-beach-de-museums-12th-annual.html

Thanks, Brenda!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 30, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Stitching Silken Sonata

Melita is going to stitch one of Jim Wurth's lovely counted pieces.  Besides eBay, this Palm Springs shop is the best place to find his charts.  "Silken Sonata" isn't listed as it was a Rainbow Gallery chart.  Your shop might be able to get it for you but it also might be discontinued now that Rainbow Gallery is owned by Fleur de Paris.  It isn't listed as one of their free charts on the Rainbow Gallery website.

https://desertoasisneedlepointsupplies.com/shop/ols/categories/jim-wurth-charted-designs

Here is Melita's introduction.

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2024/05/30/silken-sonata-kit-by-jim-wurth/

Just for the record, I adore Coronet Braid.  It is stiff but has incredible shine.

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2024/07/09/started-silken-sonata-by-jim-wurth/

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2024/07/13/stitched-silken-sonata-by-jim-wurth/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright May 31, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Water Stitch Diagrams from KC Needlepoint

KC Needlepoint's blog diagrams three water stitches for you.  All are based on Bargello stitches so they mimic waves.

https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/blogs/news/get-ready-for-the-pool-with-these-fun-stitches-for-water

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright May 30, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved

Tools of the Trade: Thread Calculator

The Wool and the Floss has a new tool in their Tools of the Trade line of products; the Thread Calculator.  How this works is you lay the transparent grid over your painted canvas and count how many squares you have of the color of thread you need to buy.  

On average, needlepointers doing basketweave use 1.75 yard of thread to cover one square inch.  The grid squares are one square inch.  Lay the grid over your design and count the squares in red, then multiple that by 1.75 yards (or 2 if you want a simpler math problem that gives you a little extra in case you have to rip out).  Now look at the label on the type of thread you want to buy and see how many yards on that skein.  If your gird count is 10 red squares (which means 20 yards of thread is necessary) and your skein of Silk Lame Braid has 10 yards on a card, buy two cards.

https://woolfloss.com/products/thread-calculator-by-tools-of-the-trade?_pos=1&_sid=120a56836&_ss=r

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright May 30, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Introducing Mary Katherine Needlepoint Designs

If you think dog ornaments with either a Cavalier King Charles spaniel, a cockapoo or a lab all wearing bunny ears is right up your alley, you need to check out Mary Katherine Needlepoint Designs.

https://shopmarykatherine.com/collections/all-canvases?page=4

She also creates nutcracker canvases (some in college colors-Go Vols!), a darling Advent candle set, funny signs and sayings (I might need "Please No Politics"), or The Ladies of Sports series sounds interesting, check out her website.  Don't miss the Lifestyle section with great needlepoint sweatshirts and t-shirts.

https://shopmarykatherine.com/

There's even a blog.  MK's musings include a good Mint Julep recipe.

https://shopmarykatherine.com/blogs/musings-from-mary-katherine

Finishing services are available for one-sided ornaments, pillows, hanging signs and custom acrylic trays.

https://shopmarykatherine.com/pages/finishing

And then there's her podcast, full of the Southern charm you expect from a South Carolina gal.

https://shopmarykatherine.com/pages/needlepoint-living-podcast

https://www.youtube.com/@needlepointscoop/videos

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright May 30, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Variegated Threads the DIY Way

Needlepoint.com has an interesting blog post about making your own variegated threads to create a unique custom look on a project.

https://needlepoint.com/blogs/needlepoint-know-how/how-to-make-your-own-variegated-threads

Of course if you don't want to take this much trouble, Coloured Complements sells thread sample assortments with the overdyed colors coordinated for you.

https://colourcomplements.com/product-category/embroidery-sampler-thread-kits

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright May 28, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Juli Poitras Retires!

Juli Poitras (the artistic genius behind JP Needlepoint) has retired!

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10224137921907880&set=a.1526682219092

Christine Kesten of CBK has bought the line, so JP Needlepoint is still available, even while Juli herself wanders off into the sunset, followed by her adorable dog.

Have fun, everybody!  

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 3, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Japanese Needle Sharpeners

While looking for something else, I stumbled across these adorable Japanese ceramic needle sharpeners.  They are made by a small company called Kawara, have magnets inside that polish the needles, and I think they are distributed by Cohana who sell beautiful Japanese enameled scissors (second link below).  Four colors are available:  white, blue, green and yellow.  

https://www.snugglymonkey.com/collections/needleminders/products/awaji-kawara-magnetic-needle-sharpener?variant=40901162205295

https://cohana.shop/collections/scissors

The same website also sells Macaron magnetic needle sharpeners, also made in Japan, but distributed by Clover.

https://www.snugglymonkey.com/products/macaron-magnetic-needle-sharpener?pr_prod_strat=e5_desc&pr_rec_id=351725776&pr_rec_pid=6578672795759&pr_ref_pid=7033867796591&pr_seq=uniform

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright April 13, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Covering a Painted Canvas Entirely With Squares

Since Google has decided to remove this article for "violating community guidelines" after I added Mary Legallet's information to it, all I can do is attempt to rewrite it.  Sorry for the inconvenience.  I will continue to protest Google's decision but if they don't answer me, this is the best I can do.  If you have any idea why this would violate any rules, let me know.  

UPDATE:  Google has allowed this posting but not the (identical) posting in the tab.  ????

********************************************

Bobbi Sher's "Orcas,"  printed design by Sandra Greba

The first person I saw do this technique is Brenda Hart.  A very creative stitcher, Brenda probably invented this technique before 2000.  (It is possible that dede Odgen used this technique early on as well but I don't know who was the first.  It could have been either of these inventive stitchers or it could have been they decided to do this simultaneously.) 
http://www.notyourgrandmothersneedlepoint.com/2012/02/too-much-detail.html

You can find the stitch diagrammed as "Squares and Rectangles" in various sizes in Brenda's Stitches for the Millennium, pages 69-70.  

UPDATE:  Mary Legallet has diagrammed a version of Brenda's stitch on her blog.  She does a straight stitch between boxes.

https://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2024/07/31

Ruth Schmuff's posting about the technique on her blog includes a stitch diagram but you will have to adjust the size of the boxes to fit in your design.  You should not compensate at the edges.  You can find this stitch diagramed as "Squares-in-Square" in Ruth's iStitches Vol. 3.  "Four Way Hungarian" in Ruth's iStitches Vol. 4 is a much simpler version.
https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2016/10/bunny-bunny-bunny-2/

You will need a canvas with a lot of detail and a thin thread.  I believe Brenda Hart used gold Madeira  or Lacquered Jewels, but Ruth Schmuff has used Accentuate.  Other folks double the Accentuate to use two strands or go with size 4 Kreinik very fine braid.  You could also use a ply of silk but I don't think the look would be as interesting with a matte thread.  Bijoux might create a more muted sparkle.  In the portrait of her dogs below, Liz used four colors of Accentuate, each doubled in the needle.

Liz Watson's custom dog portrait from Nimble Needle, Atlanta

And of course any stitch will work in this technique, but the regularity of the boxes appeals to a lot of people.  It also looks great used on a set of canvases!   Amy Bunger shows off three Leigh Designs tropical fish done in this technique at the bottom of page 18 of her October/November 2017 shop newsletter. 
http://www.amysgoldenstrand.com/uploads/7/2/3/6/72364657/1017.pdf

Courtesy of The Needlepaint Nook

The Needlepaint Nook in Merrick, NY has a customer who did this airplane portrait all in one strand and color of Splendor.
https://www.facebook.com/TheNeedlepaintNook/photos/a.470083973113570.1073741835.371945012927467/1374103826044909/?type=3&theater

Many thanks to Linda and Bobbi and Liz for allowing me to post photographs of their designs using this technique!

You don't have to use the square within a square stitch.  Many others work just as well.  Proof courtesy of Ruth Schmuff of Bedecked and Beadazzled!
https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2018/05/its-all-in-the-interpretation/

Amy Bunger takes this technique further just like Ruth did when she used an all-over leaf stitch for a giraffe canvas.  You can see the diagram here.   You don't have to stick to boxes for an all over stitch, in other words!  Do what Amy did and choose a stitch than refers to the subject matter of the design.
http://www.amysgoldenstrand.com/uploads/7/2/3/6/72364657/0818.pdf

Amy Bunger followed up on her August 2018 newsletter (above) with a more in-depth exploration of using one stitch to completely cover a canvas.
http://www.amysgoldenstrand.com/uploads/7/2/3/6/72364657/1018.pdf

Ruth Schmuff of Bedecked and Beadazzled worked a Kimberly Santini canvas of a little hamster trying on a crown.  Ruth used several open stitches on the canvas, each perfectly suited to their area.  It's a master class on using more than one open stitch on a design to enhance the original artist's intent.  Although this is more than one stitch, it's a good lesson on what is possible.
https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2018/08/the-hamster-has-her-tiara/

Sandra worked this design with the squares turned to make a diamond and put a Smyrna Cross in the center.  Worked in size 4 Kreinik braids.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/2213284882081991/

Nimble Needle shows off some Judaic canvases that look good covered in a patterned stitch and some blackwork books to help you choose the right pattern.
https://nimbleneedlenj.com/love-it-but-too-much-for-my-current-stress-level/

Sometimes the border needs to be done differently.  Linda handled it beautifully.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=3615445115138896&set=gm.2909549872455485&type=3&theater&ifg=1

Barbara had a series of three Melissa Shirley designs covered in a blackwork pattern.  It looks fabulous.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NeedlepointNation/permalink/3309625155781286/?comment_id=3312574878819647&reply_comment_id=3319092214834580

Mary of Whimsical Stitch used this star pattern on a leopard canvas, changing colors in the Soie d'Alger and Petite Silk Lame Braid picked to stitch it.

https://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2022/06/01

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 2, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Google Strikes Again (AND AGAIN AND AGAIN)

Yesterday morning I added a link to Mary Legallet's latest blog article to my summary article on how to cover a painted canvas entirely in one stitch.  Here's the link-

https://www.whimsicalstitch.com/whimsicalwednesdays/2024/07/31

In response, Google removed the article entirely, claiming it violated their policy.  Mary, have you been a very bad girl? 

Seriously, this is beginning to be a serious problem.  Google doesn't like educational articles with a lot of links and information, which is really what Blog is all about--educating needlepointers with information and links to articles that cover the issues needlepointers want to learn about.  

I have, as usual, protested this removal.  So far, I haven't gotten a response so if you click on "Covering a Painted Canvas Entirely With Squares," you'll get a notice that this article doesn't exist.  

Sorry, but Google is a huge bureaucracy, with odd rules and no accountability.  All I can do is try repost the article as a regular one and see if that works.  UPDATE: I tried that and Google removed the reposting a second time for "violating community guidelines."  ?????

I am protesting this.  Again.  

UPDATE:  I have deleted the original Cover a Canvas Entirely in Squares and added it as a new tab.  It was immediately removed.  I have protested that.  Again.  Sigh.

UPDATE #2:  Finally Google has decided that there's nothing that violates their community guidelines and allowed the new version of the Covering a Painted Canvas Entirely With Squares to go live.  I think the problem was the link to ask Google to review such a determination didn't work when I tried it originally.  In that case, copying the offending article, deleting the original, and reposting it again in an identical form was the only way to make the review happen.  It took nearly three days, mind.  I am still annoyed!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 2, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Rainbow Butterfly

Melita is mustering various resources as she contemplates stitching Laurel Burch's "Rainbow Butterfly," distributed by Danji.

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2024/05/24/rainbow-butterfly-by-danji-laurel-burch-artwork-the-stitching-club-with-ellen-johnson-serendipity/

The body of the butterfly is finished.  This is going to look amazing!

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2024/08/16/raised-stem-stitch-for-rainbiw-butterfly/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright May 25, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Amy Bunger on the Move

Amy Bunger's on the move!  Well, not really, but Needle Works has been packing up Amy's Danji canvases, books, stitch guides, Home Studies, singles clubs and more to move everything to Austin, Texas so that all Amy's things can be ordered through Needle Works.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=7924279047649025&set=gm.7934542383289517&idorvanity=108537025890131

Amy's been retired as a shop owner and teacher for a while; this is just moving her things to Needle Works so she can be fully retired.  Here is her website now.

https://www.amysgoldenstrand.com/store/c1/Featured_Products.html

Shortly you will be able to order everything from Needle Works.  Just give them time to drive from Memphis to Austin, unpack the truck and organize everything.

https://theneedleworks.com/

Meanwhile, Amy, go have some fun!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 1, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Kewpie Dolls, Trolls, A Good Book and more

Misty Morrow and Tilli Tomas of Planet Earth are collaborating on a series of small painted canvases, most of which feature Kewpie dolls or those little troll dolls that were the rage when I was a kid.  There are other fun small designs, too.  

https://tillitomasfiber.com/collections/misty-morrow

I decided to explore a bit and discovered two other new designers that Planet Earth is distributing.  Susan Sargent does some beautiful birds on elaborate backgrounds, some fun animals and other little pieces inspired by nature.

https://tillitomasfiber.com/collections/susan-sargent

Alan Claude has a different style. He does landscapes, especially showcasing lighthouses and water views, and also has a line of graphics with punch for those who like various alphabets.   His "A Good Book" is a standout for me.

https://tillitomasfiber.com/collections/alan-claude

Tilli Tomas has a good eye for what will stitch up pretty, for sure!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright May 25, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.