BREAKING NEWS: Clara Wells is Retiring

Mary Agnes just heard that Clara Wells is no longer going to design needlepoint purse canvases due to the problems finding a skilled finisher. MA is stocking up on these lovely designs because before long they will be no more.  It's a real shame.
http://needlenicely.blogspot.com/2015/12/purse-canvases.html

Thanks for letting us know, MA!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 26, 2015 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The Perfect Bridal Environment

Donna over at Needleworker Not in Paradise has been having lots of fun stitching her Bride of Frankenstein canvas.  Donna's created a background for The Bride which is totally fun.  Read all about it here--
http://majtravaux.blogspot.com/2015/12/needlepoint-making-background.html

Well done!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 8, 2015 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

The History of Slate Frames

Tricia Nguyen uses and sells slate frames for her reproduction embroidery business, so I was intrigued when she mentioned Access Commodities' essay on the history of slate frames.  I've not used slate frames myself as I don't like stitching on drum-tight needlepoint canvas but it is important for some types of needlework and the history is fascinating.
http://thistle-threads.blogspot.com/2015/12/slate-frames-in-stock.html

Here is the direct link to the essay.
http://www.thistle-threads.com/misc/Setting-in-a-Frame.pdf

Access Commodities sells wonderful threads and other supplies for the needleworker as well as slate frames.
http://www.accesscommodities.com

You can also order custom made and painted slate frames from Diamond K Folk Art.
http://www.diamondkfolkart.blogspot.com/p/hand-made-slate-frames.html

You wouldn't believe the variety of painted frames Rachel of Diamond K has made!
http://ladysrepositorymuseum.blogspot.com/2015/11/slate-frames-of-olde-west.html

http://ladysrepositorymuseum.blogspot.com/2015/09/readying-for-road-trip.html

http://ladysrepositorymuseum.blogspot.com/2015/08/custom-painted-slate-frames.html

The tools we use are so vital to our work that it is important to know more about them and to honor their usefulness.  Merry Christmas to all stitchers and a Happy New Year to their tools!

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 10, 2015 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Mainely Needlepoint Series Author Interview UPDATED

I haven't read Lea Wait's needlepoint/Maine mysteries yet (a third is just out this month) but if you have or if you are a mystery fan, you will want to read Janet Perry's interview with the author. 
http://www.nuts-about-needlepoint.com/lea-wait-author-interview/

Here is the author's website so you can read more about her and her other mysteries.
http://leawait.com

UPDATE: Lea has added a bibliography of her source material about historical needlepoint to her website.  Have fun tracking down the sources.
http://www.leawait.com/BIBLIO_Needlepoint.pdf

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 10, 2015 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.

Stay Healthy!

Amy Bunger's latest newsletter has some great tips on staying healthy as you stitch.
http://www.amybunger.com/f/1215.pdf

Written by Jane/Chilly Hollow
Blogging at http://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com
and at http://chstitchguides.blogspot.com
© Copyright December 2, 2015 Jane M. Wood. All rights reserved.