Something Very Special

I was thrilled to see this lovely piece of silk ribbon embroidery, done by Cynthia Thomas for the 2025 Needlepoint Reunion. 

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=25510768528514767&set=a.509405429077756

It showcases Treenway silk threads and silk ribbons and was on display to let shops know just how magnificant their threads and ribbons are.  The design is from Anne Brinkley.

Here is the Treenway website if you'd like to browse and plan a purchase.

https://www.treenwaysilks.com/index.php

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright October 21, 2025 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Do You Speak Needlepoint?

Do you speak needlepoint?  Needle Arts Studio in New Orleans (known as NOLA) does!

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRABIAeDht9/

You can visit the shop here if you can't get to New Orleans today.

https://www.needlenola.com/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright December 25, 2025 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Make Your Own Variagated Thread: The Movie

OzNeedleandThread on Instagram has a tutorial on how to make your own variegated thread.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DUoKAG4AcjM/

As a bonus, she shows how Splendor naturally comes apart into three bundles of four plies each.  Pull one bundle out and separate further, repeat until you have the number of plies you need.

By the way, here's the champagne cork canvas she uses as an example.  There is a matching needle minder!

https://shop.app/products/7182159904901/champagne-cork-pillow?fromShop=true

https://shop.app/products/7223341154437/champagne-cork-needleminder?fromShop=true

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright February 13, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Needlepoint Bookmarks

Jan's finished her ribbon sampler so she is doing a few original designs on bookmarks, just for fun.

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2026/02/09/2nd-finish/

https://stitchlady.wordpress.com/2026/02/11/another-quick-finish/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright February 12, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Eliminate Basketweave Ridges

Poppy Monk Needlepoint's blog has five tips to make your basketweave smooth.

https://poppymonkneedlepointkits.com/blogs/the-5-minute-needlepoint-blog/five-tips-for-smoother-needlepoint-basketweave

I'll add my own tip:  If you are a beginner, avoid tightly twisted perle cotton threads.  Wools and wool/silk blends are more forgiving and will spread a bit to fill the holes and lie nicely next to each other.  

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright February 9, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Making Silk Ribbon Roses: The Movie

Coco Frank Studio demonstrates making ribbon roses with a Colonial knot and running stitches.

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1389009942414877

It's pretty easy if you are familiar with Colonial knots, just a little fiddly.  Looks just like a rose when you are done!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright February 8, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Four Fun Background Stitches

Let's wrap up February with some fun background stitches, courtesy of Poppy Monk.

https://poppymonkneedlepointkits.com/blogs/the-5-minute-needlepoint-blog/needlepoint-kits-with-fun-background-stitches

When you are trying to choose a background stitch that is decorative, make sure you can do at least three repeats of the pattern.  Otherwise, the fancy stitch won't show up well and you are better off with something small and plain.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright January 5, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Hearts for Hospice Book

The Hearts for Hospice program has a book!  It is 38 pages, spiral bound, with 13 hearts and over 50 stitches, for $20.  Contact heartsforhospiceofficial@gmail.com to order.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1209051254734346&set=a.397588615880618

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright February 7, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The NJNA April 2026 Report

The New Jersey Needle Artists Chapter of ANG's bi-weekly newsletter is out.  It's full of ANG news, of course, but there is much more:  new books, new threads, new shops, new designs, and even needlepoint socks!

https://blog.njneedleartists.org/2026/04/11/whats-happening-at-njna-4-11-26/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright April 12, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Needlepoint.com Interviews Halcyon House Designs

Needlepoint.com featured Halcyon House Designs in February and did an interview with Jackie, the designer behind all the fun.  You can get to know her and see her work here--

https://needlepoint.com/blogs/needlepoint-know-how/designer-showcase-halcyon-house-designs

If you are curious about Jackie's work, browse her website. (Those Jaws designs crack me up.)

https://www.halcyonhousedesigns.com/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com 

nd at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright Feb. 6, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Breaking News: Business Insider Interviews Kevin Lustik

Every morning as I drink my coffee I read emails and browse a huge range of news sites.  This habit served me well this morning as I stumbled across Business Insider's interview of Kevin Lustik!

https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/marriage/i-m-a-62-year-old-paralegal-who-turned-my-needlepoint-hobby-into-a-side-hustle-gen-z-are-some-of-my-best-customers/ar-AA20DChw?ocid=hpmsn&cvid=69da343e606f4e3da95a1bd8b777b2fd&ei=29

You'll remember  Kevin's hilarious and thought-provoking pieces, which you can browse on his Instagram or Facebook accounts.  His original creations are for sale, too.  

https://www.instagram.com/lustikart/?hl=en

Folks like Kevin are spreading the news that needlepoint is an art form, just like painting.  I hope he at least encourages you to try creating something original from the heart.  That's what art is, after all.  And if you don't feel creative today, you can enjoy Kevin's creativity instead.

https://www.facebook.com/kevin.lustik

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright April 11, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Fiber Talk Demonstrates Mounting Canvas on Stretcher Bars

If you haven't used stretcher bars before, you probably wonder how to attach needlepoint canvas to them once you have the four sides assembled.  Fiber Talk's got a nice video demonstrating how to do this in great detail on their website.  

https://wetalkfiber.com/2026/02/04/mounting-needlepoint-canvas-on-stretcher-bars/

Gary puts artists tape (available online at art supply stores like Blick's) over the raw edges of his canvas so threads don't snag there.  It's a nice touch and many shops sell painted canvases already taped on the edges.  If you have to buy blank canvas, ask your shop to tape the edges for you.  Some may be willing to do that. If you buy a roll, get one an inch wide.  The color doesn't matter.

He uses angle irons to keep his stretcher bars square.  You can also buy FrameLoks which are plastic and fit inside the angle of assembled stretcher bars.  They are sold in sets of four, come in various colors, and are attached with thumbtacks.  The second link below shows how to use them.  FrameLoks cost a little more than hardware angle irons and aren't as readily available, although many needlepoint shops carry FrameLoks these days.

https://woolfloss.com/products/framelok?_pos=2&_sid=3e901adb4&_ss=r

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2fnUtN6X_0

You can use a door frame to check squareness instead of buying a carpenter square.  Beware:  some door frames are not actually square!  Check against a counter top or window frame if the window opens and closes easily (they get out of true as well).

Gary uses thumb tacks to secure his canvas but I prefer staples.  I find thumbtacks fall out and are harder to remove than staples.  I have a heavy duty staple and heavy duty staples that I use and then pry out when taking the canvas off.  

Gary also uses the Arrow brand staple puller that he got from Lowe's hardware.  Prices vary so shop around.

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Arrow-SL24D-Staple-Puller-7-5-in-Length-1-in-Staple-Crown-Size-For-Flooring-and-Upholstery-Staples-Steel-Construction/999957999?store=&cm_mmc=shp-_-c-_-prd-_-tah-_-bng-_-PMAX_TAH_000_Priority_Item-_-999957999-_-Online-_-0-_-0&msclkid=5a8237086dce103ac3755e8cc7459de5&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=PMAX_TAH_000_Priority_Item&utm_term=2333782149854129&utm_content=PMAX_TAH_Fastening_Video&gclid=5a8237086dce103ac3755e8cc7459de5&gclsrc=3p.ds

Remember, if you are using Evertites or Adjust-a-Frames instead of regular cheap stretcher bars, don't attach the canvas at the corners.  Those must stay loose so you can adjust the tension.

UPDATE: Donna G. sent Gary lots of further information so he did a second video with a few little points that will help you.

https://wetalkfiber.com/2026/02/10/canvas-thanks-to-donna-gotts-for-offering-stretcher-bar-fine-points/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright Februray 5, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Rare Earth Magnet Warning

Go Stitch Studio (which sells needle minders) reminds us that rare earth magnets, while strong, are also brittle.  I have to say that I've never had this happen to me, but then I don't sell needle minders so I don't have a ton of them.  The worst I've ever had happen is a rhinestone has fallen out and those are easily glued back in position with glue and a toothpick.

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

So don't be freaked out.  Have a little browese at Go Stitch Studio instead.  (Don't miss the Le Tigere matchbox needle minder!)

https://gostitchstudio.com/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright February 4, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Bird Needlepoint Art

One of Carolyn Hedge Baird's students allowed Carolyn to photograph and show off her collection of Melissa Shirley bird canvases.  They are amazing!

https://www.instagram.com/p/DUTfC_RifL8/?img_index=1

These are large canvases, all on 13 count from what I remember.  Many have stitch guides available.  Here are a few examples currently in stock at Melissa Shirley Designs.

https://melissashirleydesigns.com/galsearch/index.cgi?index=1447185220_4115&col=

https://melissashirleydesigns.com/galsearch/index.cgi?index=1338571497_19943&col=

https://melissashirleydesigns.com/galsearch/index.cgi?index=1132156499_9544&col=

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright February 4, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

I Couldn't Stop Giggling

Mywifeplaysmahjong and majwithbrooke have collaborated on this bit of Instagram humor involving needlepoint and mahjong.

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

I couldn't stop giggling.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright February 4, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Let's Talk Tension

Let's talk tension--and I don't mean worry and fretting--I mean stitch tension.  As Poppy Monk points out on their blog, stitch tension is an important but overlooked means of improving the look of your stitching.

https://poppymonkneedlepointkits.com/blogs/the-5-minute-needlepoint-blog/stitch-chill-the-guide-to-perfect-needlepoint-tension

I've discovered stitching when I'm upset or worried is not a good idea if I want my stitching to match previous stitching, so having an all tent stitch project I can pick up to relax at those times works well for me since I find it easier to control tension in basketweave than in any other stitch.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright February 2, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

UK Church Kneelers Full of Charm

Simon Martin Art takes us on a tour of church kneelers in Norfolk, on the east coast of England.  Use the right side arrows to see dozens of them.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DUAfk9YDaB3/?img_index=1

They are charming!  Wonder why there is a kneeler with dice?  My favorite is the tractor one.  That was stitched by a farmer's wife.  The tractor is the most important piece of machinery a modern farmer owns.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.co

 and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright January 31, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

How To Paint Your Own

Quail Run posted five tips for painting your own designs on their Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1338783481610386&set=a.635108881977853

I've taken the liberty of repeating their tips here for the folks who don't have a Facebook account.  Thanks, Quail Run!

"Here are five practical tips for painting your own needlepoint canvas (a fun, budget-friendly way to create custom designs):

1. Choose the right paints and consistency
Use high-quality acrylic paints thinned to the consistency of half-and-half or light cream so they flow smoothly into the canvas intersections without bleeding or clumping. Artist-grade options like Liquitex Soft Body or Golden Fluid acrylics are recommended for better colorfastness and longevity, as cheaper craft acrylics (like some FolkArt or Ceramcoat) can fade, turn milky, or perform poorly over time.

2. Prep your canvas and workspace properly
Secure the edges of your needlepoint canvas (mono or interlock, typically 13–18 mesh) with tape to prevent fraying and keep it taut. Work on a clean, flat surface, and consider taping a printed chart or outline underneath if tracing. This helps keep everything aligned and makes it easier to paint precisely at each intersection.

3. Use affordable tools and the right technique
Opt for inexpensive synthetic brushes (the stiff canvas will ruin them quickly, so cheap packs are ideal). Alternatively, acrylic paint pens/markers (like Posca) are beginner-friendly for cleaner lines and less mess, especially for simple or outlined designs. Paint one color at a time, dabbing small dots or fills at each canvas intersection rather than broad strokes.

4. Plan and reference your design carefully
Start with a graphed pattern (from cross-stitch charts, your own sketch, or digital printout) where each square represents a canvas intersection. Lightly pencil guidelines on the canvas if needed (they'll be covered), then paint methodically—often from the bottom up or section by section—while constantly checking your reference to avoid mistakes. Tracing paper or a light box can help transfer designs accurately.

5. Test and let it cure fully
Do a small test on scrap canvas to check color flow, drying time, and how the paint sits in the holes. Once painted, allow the canvas to dry completely (often 24+ hours) before stitching to prevent smudging or color transfer to your yarn. Avoid over-thinning the paint, as it can weaken adhesion.

These steps make custom needlepoint much more affordable and creative than buying pre-painted canvases! Start simple if you're new. Begin with basic patterns or traced images. Happy painting and stitching!"

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright January 29, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

"A needlepoint magazine for all who know it’s not just a hobby, it’s a culture"

I just discovered a new needlepoint magazine came out in April 2026.  It is called ThreadLines and the first issue is for Spring 2026.  It's going to come out twice yearly from what I understand.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10164066601904630&set=gm.26222651420718668&idorvanity=108537025890131

There doesn't appear to be a website but I found an Instagram page for ThreadLines.

https://www.instagram.com/threadlinesndlpt/

You can see a glimpse inside the first issue here-https://www.instagram.com/p/DWZ6xD0kTDd/

Look for the weekly postings full of fun news and happenings!

https://www.instagram.com/p/DWdD5-XCuhs/

And look for the Life Well Stitched podcast.

https://open.spotify.com/show/60EhwwhuCUaJQ0GvT9CHJS

You can preorder from some of our lovely shops.

https://www.needlepointclubhouse.com/products/threadlines-spring-2026

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright March 29, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Printing a Simple Canvas At Home

Jhandy_creates has posted a quick printed canvas tutorial on her Instagram.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DT8oNcyEaz-/

She says she used a Epson America Eco Tank.  Unfortunately, there are many models in the Epson Eco Tank line so I can't tell for sure which one she used, but I am guessing it might be an ET-2400 or an ET-3850 which are the only ones I saw that costs less than $200.  I think the important thing is that the printer will take needlepoint canvas through its rollers without jamming.  

By the way, handy_creates has a more extensive series of videos about this process.  Start here, then use the left side arrow to move to the next video.  There are four.  (You will need Photoshop and Canvas software.)

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

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright January 29, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Stitch Beautifully An Essential Guide to Needlepoint UPDATED

Meredith Willet, owner of M's Canvashouse, the Meredith Collection, and an esteemed teacher, has released a book!  It is titled Stitch Beautifully An Essential Guide to Needlepoint.  Waste Knot has posted a short summary of the book on their Facebook page.  

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1852924732315613&set=a.937854437155985

I'm going to quote Waste Knot here as many folks don't have a Facebook account--

"New book alert!  Stitch Beautifully: An Essential Guide to Needlepoint by Meredith Willett is a wonderful new book featuring foundational knowledge and techniques for both beginning and experienced stitchers. There are all kinds of tips and tricks, information about when and where to use different kinds of decorative stitches, and a glossary explaining dozens of terms — among other things!"

The Meredith Collection website describes the book as 8 x 10 inches "with a lay flat wire O binding."  It's starting to be available in all the shops, so call up your favorite to order.

Just as a reminder, Meredith has also just published "Needlepoint Quick Guide" which is a good guide for beginners.

https://www.needlenook.com/product/needlepoint-quick-guide-by-meredith-willett/

UPDATE:  Stitch-Stash says this about the book (I am quoting part of their rave review in a shop e-newsletter)--

"You’ll find chapters covering:

• What is needlepoint

• Foundations for every stitch

• Needles, frames, and tools of the trade

• Threads 101

• Beginning and ending your threads

• Stitch families at a glance

• Decorative and compensating stitches

• How to choose the right stitch

• Beads, baubles, and bling

• Stitch bag essentials

• Tips I wish everyone had told me

…and so much more."

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright March 26, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Is That a Banana?!

Today's April Fool's Day, so this technology fail belongs here.

https://www.facebook.com/reel/3155885544584631

Kudoes to The Wool and The Floss for rolling with the (fruit) punches.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright January 28, 2026 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.