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.

Iron On Bag Patch Tutorial

LoveMBHStudio has posted a tutorial on their Instagram page that demonstrates how to turn a small needlepoint design into an iron on bag patch.  Just click on the right side arrow to follow along and see how it is done.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DOW4itMDyw4/?img_index=1

You can buy Stitch Witchery fusible interfacing here.  You'll need two pieces, so make sure you buy enough but not so much you have tons left over.

https://www.amazon.com/Dritz-222-WITCHERY-FUSIBLE-20-Yards/dp/B000XZVXIA?crid=3RAAP3M6AAHX7&keywords=stitch%2Bwitchery&qid=1663001457&sprefix=stitch%2Bwitchery%2Caps%2C105&sr=8-2&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=ageberry-20&linkId=214b371b5b0ea932075cdb447a909877&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright September 9, 2025 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Make Your Own Porcupine Laying Tool

Melita learned how to make a porcupine laying tool!

https://melitastitches4fun.com/2025/06/13/porcupine-quill-laying-tool/

I've never seen one of these in person and before this, never wondered how they were made.  Interesting!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 14, 2025 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Scallop Frames for Self-Finishing

The Wool and The Floss has posted a short video demonstrating how to insert a four inch round needlepoint into the round wooden scallop frames they sell.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DLfgAP_AA9l/

It's easy!  The frames are for 4 inch rounds and come in four colors:  black, white, natural and grey.

https://woolfloss.com/products/12089-8x8x1-wood-scallop-photo-frame-round-bk-4x4?_pos=3&_sid=7343839de&_ss=r

https://woolfloss.com/products/12066-8x8-round-scallop-photo-frame-4x4-whitehome-decor?_pos=15&_sid=7343839de&_ss=r

https://woolfloss.com/products/12067-8x8-round-scallop-photo-frame-4x4-ntrl-home-decor?_pos=16&_sid=7343839de&_ss=r

https://woolfloss.com/products/12065-8x8-round-scallop-photo-frame-grey-4x4-home-decor?_pos=4&_sid=7343839de&_ss=r

If your four inch piece is square, don't worry!  There are also frames for squares that are four inches by four inches.  They come in natural and white.

https://woolfloss.com/products/11848-6x6x1-wood-photo-frame-scallop-ntrl-wh-4x4-pic

https://woolfloss.com/products/11846-6x6x1-wood-photo-frame-scallop-wh-4x4-pic

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright June 29, 2025 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Wooden Coffins for Needlework

I just stumbled across these wooden DIY Halloween coffins for needlework on Etsy.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/1565180233/cross-stitch-kit-halloween-coffins?click_key=57f614507087cff0067b1f6f080d336b9ae11c16%3A1565180233&click_sum=4733122a&ga_search_query=coffin&ref=shop_items_search_1&pro=1

It looks like these have to be assembled.  If it were me, I'd stain or paint them before adding needlework, too.  There's no guarantee that thicker needlepoint designs will fit in the opening, either.  I wasn't able to find out the opening size.  These are really made to be used with her cross stitch patterns I think, but it's still worth an experiment if you are in Mad Scientist Mode!

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.

Fillable Glass Lamps

Tracey's Stitches and Style Instagram shows how she filled a glass base lamp she got at Target with her orts.  Note what she says at the end of her video.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C9iAMqrR9nJ/

Target seems to have a huge selection of these "fillable" lamps in various sizes and shapes.  (Not all come with shades.)  Note that the one Tracey used could also be filled with a needlepoint canvas.  Stitch something that is that tall, crease the raw edges to turn them under, tuck it into the lamp and stuff bubble wrap or something similar in the middle to hold the canvas in position.  Easy peasy.

https://www.target.com/s/fillable+lamps

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright July 18, 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.

Self-finishing Needlepoint Cuff Links

The Nashville Needlepointer has filmed a quick tutorial on finishing needlepoint cuff links.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C40r0rfLfKi/

I couldn't find the links to the hardware Lita uses but The Needlepointer sells one inch square cuff link hardware sets.  Etsy sells all sorts of cuff link hardware in various metals and sizes.

https://www.theneedlepointer.com/hardware-1-cuff-links/p8417811

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright March 27, 2024 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Do It Yourself Lap Stand

A very clever stitcher just clipped their table clamp stand onto a wooden cutting board to make a lap stand for couch sitting.  Use the side arrows for more views of how it works.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C4UHiZBvxrL/?fbclid=IwAR3FkJaN2ojFjkrSovzyvoAlnLm-is9FCHC5kapQRTObbTvDJ2PfbefGWt4&img_index=1

Maribel just won the Smart Cookie Award for April for this!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

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

Needle Paint Has Dog Collars

NeedlePaint has branched out into dog collars.

https://www.needlepaint.com/blog/2023/05/15/needlepoint-dog-collars-with-style/

You can browse their printed designs or create your own custom collar using their Custom Dog Collar Builder which is here--

https://www.needlepaint.com/dog-collar-designer/#/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright May 15, 2023 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A Book on Making Tote Bags

Thanks to the Needlework Retailer, I know there's a new book out on how to sew your own tote bag.

https://yarntree.typepad.com/needlework_news/2022/08/build-a-bag-book-tote-bags.html

There are reuseable templates for fifteen variations of tote bags apparently.  

https://www.debbieshoresewing.com/shop/brands/debbie-shore/debbie-shore-build-a-bag-tote-bags-book/

If you are curious, the author Debbie Shore has at least two YouTube videos on making two styles of tote.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6Td9vSl5uA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33aR25znAVE

If you have a sewing machine and do quilting it looks like these would be pretty easy and you could use your stitched needlepoint as pockets or even as one side of a tote if they are large enough.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 25, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

A DIY Acrylic Tray

Patricia wins the Smart Cookie Award for September with this Do It Yourself lucite tray.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/122934116489655/permalink/413035970812800/

For those who don't have a Facebook account, Patrica described how she did this:  "...purchased Lucite tray from Amazon ( about $20). They come is multiple sizes. Choose one closest to your canvas. Very carefully (to the 32nd) measured the inside on the tray and went to Lowes where they will cut to size a piece of plexi ($15) that ultimately will be used to cover canvas once placed in tray. Then went to Michael’s and ordered a custom double mat with spacer and a piece of card stock.. ( $70). Total spent $105 compared to hundreds for a custom tray from LNS. Cut cardstock to fit bottom of tray. Layer canvas down on top of cardstock and adhered with the tiniest dot of glue stick. Layer custom mat on top of canvas and covered with plexi. I don’t plan on serving liquids with this so no need to seal. Fit is super tight."

Congratulations to Patricia for this very clever way to create a lucite tray.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 24, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Finishing an Acrylic Purse: The Movie

Kathryn recommended this video on finishing needlepoint for those clear acrylic purses on Needlepoint Nation.  The video shows several different ways to finish the panels yourself, which is nice.  You can pick what works for you best.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JN0pvzmQikI

Thanks, Kathryn!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright August 8, 2022 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Using Salt Scrub: The Movie

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

https://vimeo.com/644046950/c385d9acc6?goal=0_3621358244-62a698adbe-69335125&mc_cid=62a698adbe&mc_eid=73961ee0ea

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

https://www.theneedlepointer.com/product/salt-scrub-for-stitchers/

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

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

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright November 16, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

How to Make Monk's Braid: The Movie

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

https://fancyworkfinishing.com/hand-made-needlework-trim/

It makes a pretty and hard-wearing cord.

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright October 28, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Button Covers from Patty Paints

Have you been intrigued by the button cover canvases from Patty Paints?  The Collection Designs, the company that distributes Patty Paints, has updated their website with plenty of photos of the available designs, the metal buttons that come with the canvas, and an explanation of how to put them together.

https://www.thecollectiondesigns.com/patty-paints-diy-buttons.html

It looks really easy!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright September 12, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

How to Make a Small Tassel: The Movie

Need to add tassels to that llama design?  Needlepoint.com has done a video tutorial on how to create a small tassel as part of your design.

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

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright September 14, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Needlepoint Knot Headbands

Looks like headbands are back in style!  Penny Linn sells kits, either with or without threads.

https://pennylinndesigns.com/collections/all/products/needlepoint-knot-headband

The Penny Linn website has a tutorial on how to assemble them, too. The instructions are included in the kits but if you have a belt you'd like to finish this way, you can buy the instructions separately.

https://pennylinndesigns.com/collections/all/products/pdf-headband-finishing-guide

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow

Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com

and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com

© Copyright May 16, 2021 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Adventures in Finishing a Pillow

Debbie Rowley is going to make her Spring Quilt Block into a pillow herself.  Debbie, I feel your pain!
https://debbeesdesigns.com/2020/06/20/finishing-friday-spring-quilt-block/

https://debbeesdesigns.com/2020/06/26/friday-finishing-spring-quilt-block/

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright June 20, 2020 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Making a Hat Band the Easy Way UPDATED

Horse Country Chic is making a hat band for a straw hat.
http://horsecountrychic.blogspot.com/2020/04/my-needlepoint-hat-band-project.html

She makes it look easy, too.  Tent stitched projects are so soothing right now.  Hopefully you can find something fun you want to stitch for a hat band of your very own.

UPDATE:  Here is her hat band finished. Neat!
http://horsecountrychic.blogspot.com/2020/05/my-finished-needlepoint-hatband-project.html

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright April 25, 2020 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.