I'd rather be stitching

Heaven: A Weekend of Stitching

2012-02-07T17:51:00.001-05:00

Well, my annual stitching vacation is over. :( Two of my long time stitching friends were here for four wonderful days. We've gone way past just being stitching friends, but that's how it all started over fifteen years ago. We all live in different states now, but we try to get together once or twice a year to catch up and STITCH!

My dear husband escaped to visit his brother for the weekend so it was just the three of us and my two spoiled rotten pugs. Let's just say that Lester and Otis got more attention than they deserve. So it was a SES fest...stitch, eat, and sleep. I, of course, worked only on The Cranberry Sampler.

Laura and Vicky aren't quite as anal retentive as I am so they worked on several pieces. Laura's were all gorgeous samplers. Vicky's projects ranged from needlepoint ornaments to a "Quilted Garden" by Blue Ribbon Designs.

The putti ('the little nekkid men' as a friend of mine calls them) are intentionally left undecorated on the right. A lot of this band was left to the stitcher's discretion. I tried to follow the stitched model as closely as possible because I don't really have much imagination.

The clothed ones on the left are done in detached buttonhole which I enjoy once I get in a rhythm.

The center floral motif was also stitcher's choice of stitches and colors. I used satin stitch, Montenegrin, trellis, and Roman stitches. It was quite an experiment.

The current band is huge and will probably take quite a while, but it is the last one in color. I am anxious to get to the whitework sections so hopefully, there won't be a lot of frogging for the next little while!

I Love a Challenge But This is Ridiculous!

2012-01-25T11:35:00.000-05:00

Recently, one of the Facebook stitching groups that I follow started a once a month WIP stitch-in for those pieces that you really can't seem to get going on again. Most of the folks in this group have waaaaaaay more UFOs than I do. That's not saying a lot since I generally work on only one project at a time until it's finished. However, occasionally I start a piece that is so involved or difficult or frustrating that I have to put it down to ensure that I don't pull all my hair out. "Margret Gatis" by Scarlet Letter is one of those pieces.

Make no mistake, I love the sampler. I love the various stitches and the colors. I use the sewing motion and work in hand rather than on a frame which, over time, has led me to stitch by feel to a large degree. I can just tell when I've picked up one or three threads instead of the usual two threads. But stitching over three threads is tedious, time consuming and hurts my brain. You have to actually count threads and the vertical thread concept* is useless as a counting mechanism. Even more confounding is the fact that some bands on MG are stitched over two threads and some bands are over three threads! It makes the chart confusing and I have to constantly remind myself that each square covers three threads. And don't even get me started on satin stitches motifs with angles and turns over three threads!

Anyway, I chose MG as my WIP for this monthly exercise in futility. Thank heavens, it's only one day for whatever time period one can handle! I worked on some satin stitch motifs for a few hours then had to pack it up. The frogs were starting to scare Lester and Otis!

And now I'm back to the challenging, but stunningly beautiful, Cranberry Sampler. Although I'm in random stitching hell right now on this one too. The directions are pretty skimpy and leave a lot of the stitch and color choices to your imagination. I tend to follow the model stitcher's choices with a few exceptions. And there's nothing like a mountain of double running stitch to make you skip that last cup of coffee. You can't afford twitchy fingers when trying to keep a smooth and straight line going.

* as explained by Carol Leather, needlework designer and teacher

I Want a Day Off!

2012-01-13T14:48:00.001-05:00

Okay, this is one of those days where I can't find the motivation to do anything but stitch. But I feel guilty for not doing something 'productive' so I haven't even picked up my stitching. I am such a goon. I deserve to do what I want to, right? Actually, I did go to the grocery, so I think I'll count that as my productivity for the day.

Here's where I left off last night on The Cranberry Sampler. By Monday, you'll be able to tell how self indulgent I really am!

On another note, did you get everything you wanted for Christmas? Did anyone actually look at your wish list? Somebody looked at mine and I got these precious Pineapple Scissors from UncommonScissors.com.

I haven't decided on a fob for them yet, but you know I will! Feel free to browse my shop for a treat for your new scissors or to spruce up your old ones! There are some new fobs and counting pins available, like this one in my favorite color combo. Lime Cobalt Beaded Scissor Fob

and Small Lime Cobalt Counting Pins for Cross Stitch and Needlepoint

It's ALIVE!

2012-01-10T10:41:00.001-05:00

No, I'm not talking about Frankenstein. My Cranberry Sampler is really taking shape. Every time I turn around there are more Montenegrin stitches to do, but the rich colors and textures just make me swoon!

It's a rather dreary day here at the beach. I'd love to just sit and stitch, but there are bathrooms to be cleaned and dog hair to be swiffered, so off I go.

Football and Stitching

2012-01-06T15:06:00.003-05:00

I just love bowl games and playoff season! I get so much stitching done, especially while watching games in which I have no personal interest. Now some of you may ask, 'Why watch them?'. Well, I love football. I spent many Sunday afternoons as a child watching football games on TV with my dad. I knew more about the NFL than any other kid in elementary school. Daddy played football in high school and at NC State after his stint in the Navy during WWII. He even played in the Gator bowl way back when! Anyway, it was something we enjoyed doing together. The first fall after he passed away, I found myself picking up the phone to call him to talk about a game I'd been watching before I realized I didn't need the phone to talk to him.

Now I use the TV as a radio while I stitch. I still get excited about big plays and sometimes I have to frog because of it, but thatt's okay. So this week, I've made significant progress on The Cranberry Sampler.

It may not look like a lot, but that vine is a killer. It's done in Montenegrin stitch, which is not a problem when stitched in a straight line, but the diagonal portions require a lot of concentration. And for some reason, the sequence was not intuitive for me. It is slightly different with every directional change and I didn't really get into the flow until I was almost done. Then the base of the flowers (which aren't stitch yet) is filled with Trellis Stitch, another one low on my list of personal favorites. It similar to detached buttonhole, but harder to make consistent and not nearly as much fun. The fun part was the queen stitches in the leaves on the vince, but I ran out of them too soon. But all those stitches are what make these antique style band samplers attractive to me and I love the process. So I persevere!

Another Year, Another Big Start!

2012-01-02T11:54:00.001-05:00

Well, the big Christmas rush is over and I'm still working on ornaments! But only because I like to have a few done before I start the Panic later in the year. Actually, it's kind of fun once the pressure is off, but you're still in the mood. And I'm working on hardanger ones, so I don't have to worry about color changes.

I stitched this Charland Design from my stash for my husband for Christmas. Of course, the frame wasn't done in time, but it's hanging on the wall now. It's a little frou-frou, but hey, it's sweet!

But I started my first project of 2012 right before Christmas just in case I had some time to stitch (what a joke) while visiting my family. Since we got back I've really enjoyed working on "The Cranberry Sampler" by Needle's Prayse.

I've made more progress, but haven't take a picture today. There's a huge whitework section at the bottom that I can't wait to stitch! In the meantime, I'm meticulously working on a diagonal montenegrin band! Talk about the need to focus...

Whew!

2011-12-11T13:26:00.001-05:00

I spent the better part of a couple of days this week assembling ornaments, but I'm finally done! I fought with my sewing machine for a while trying to sew the linings and backing on the stitched pieces. Then I twisted about a mile and a half of cording, then I stuffed about 20 lbs of polyfil into the little suckers. Then the fun part started...attaching the cording to the ornaments. But they're done, pictures are taken and they are ready to mail.

Busy as a Bee

2011-12-06T11:06:00.001-05:00

I've been so busy, I haven't even thought about blogging...well, that's not exactly true. I've thought about it, but haven't done anything about it! You'll have to be patient if you want to see the sampler I'm working on right now because somebody reads my blog who can't see it yet.

But I have been doing a little sewing for Christmas. And I do mean 'a little'. This table runner is call the 10 Minute Table Runner for a reason. I'm not sure what it is, but I'm sure there's a reason. I took a little longer than that but mostly because I use my sewing machine so rarely that it takes me a while to figure out what's going on. Yesterday, I spent quite a bit of time yelling at it because the tension was so loose. I won't tell you how long it took me to figure out that the needle had come loose and almost unseated. Duh. Once I got it in gear, everything moved along pretty quickly. The really fun part is standing in the fabric department playing with color combinations.

Please excuse the lovely backdrop for my photos. It's hard to find a well lit place without going outside and laying them in the driveway!

Cool and Refreshing, But It's Not the Weather!

2011-11-15T11:18:00.001-05:00

Okay, folks, I'm finding a little difficult to think about winter when the temps are up in the 70s and I'm wearing shorts again! Not that I'm complaining. It's just messing with my mind...and I really can't afford that!

However, I continue to work on Christmas ornaments. 22 down, 6 to go! This Peppermint one is a fav of mine.

And this is my purple version of the blue Mill Hill ornament I completed recently.

And this snowman should probably go to somebody who won't see any snow this year...

2011-11-07T18:53:00.002-05:00

Do you think in DMC colors? You know, when you go to buy a pair of shoes to match an outfit, do you ask the clerk for something in '823' instead of 'navy blue'? Well, I do. Not all the time, but it happens. Last week I was working on a custom scissor fob (actually two) for someone and I just couldn't get a feel for what she wanted, so I asked her for the DMC colors. She went one better and sent me a picture of the scissors that will go with the fob. Here's what I came up with.

There are lots of choices in my Etsy shop, but I am always open to custom work.

Still working on ornaments, but I did a count last night. Nineteen down, only eight to go! Woohoo! I managed to stitch quite a bit while watching football this weekend. (Go Wolfpack!!! Our season might as well be over, since we beat Carolina!)

It's Okay to Start Shopping Now

2011-11-04T12:06:00.001-04:00

I've been running around like a chicken with my head cut off this week, so there's not a lot of stitching show and tell. I did finish the "Tweet" and "Baked Goods" ornaments by Little House.

But what I've been concentrating on is new scissor fobs and counting pins. Great gift idea for your stitch group gift exchange! I haven't listed these yet in my Etsy shop, but I will soon. If you don't want to wait that long, just comment and leave me a way to get in touch with you. You can purchase each item separately or as a set. I'll include a color coordinated needle threader with each set.

And, of course, I have lots of pretty stitch markers for the knitters and crocheters on your list...or treat yourself.

Featured Artisan - I Knit Quilt Sew!

2011-10-31T08:00:00.000-04:00

This week's Featured Artisan is Sandi Levy - I Knit Quilt Sew!

Sandy has delightful creations in here shop. Something for everyone!

You can find I Knit Quilt Sew on:

Etsy

Handmade Artists Shop

Blog

Facebook

2011-10-30T15:16:00.000-04:00

It's been a busy and fun week, even though I haven't had much time to stitch. Mom has been visiting with us this week and we had a great time. A productive trip to the second hand book store and some cool, but sunny weather made for some very relaxing afternoons.

I did finish a couple more Mill Hill ornaments, but I really have to get that needle smokin' soon or I'll never have all of them ready in time. I'm going to try to hide out this week and really get some serious stitching done, but you know how that goes!

Signs of Autumn

2011-10-25T15:10:00.001-04:00

When you think of Autumn, leaves changing color and cooler weather spring to mind. Well, when you live at the beach in North Carolina the signs are a little different. The weather is usually cooler, but not always, and the few leaves that change don't do it until much later in the season. The Confederate Rose, which is really a hibiscus, blooms in October and November and yachts begin heading south on the Intracoastal Waterway for the winter. I managed to get a photo of our Confederate Rose, but I never have my camera with me when I see the yachts sailing by. So use your imagination. At night, before the temperatures get too cold, we sleep with the door open and can sometimes hear them motoring by. It's very soothing.

The other sign of Autumn in my house is Christmas ornaments being stitched. Here are the latest finishes of the Mill Hill beaded ornaments this year.

On Fire Featured Artistan - Jewelry by NaLa

2011-10-24T09:11:00.000-04:00

This weeks Featured Artisan is Jewelry by Nala! Nala has beautiful creations in her shop!

A Must have for everone's jewelry box! You can find in her shop!

Jewelry by Nala on:

Stash Enhancement

2011-10-18T16:27:00.000-04:00

Remember when I got all the threads for the Honeysuckle Sampler? Well, I neglected to show you what else was in that package. Both of these are definitely at the top of the stack in my in-basket! I'm actually going to stitch the ornaments as individual ornaments, minus the ribbon behind them. What do you think of stitching them on perforated paper and mounting them on a real ribbon?

And Quaker Christmas II is probably going to be my first 2012 project!

And I stayed up until I finished this beautiful bejeweled ornament from Mill Hill. The backing isn't on it yet. I'll probably do all of them at the same time, assembly line style.

It's So Pretty...and it's Not Even Finished!

2011-10-17T13:01:00.001-04:00

These Mill Hill ornaments are a lot of fun and the colors are fabulous. Of course, the glistening beads add a glamorous touch. I just got started, but I'm having a lot of fun and I didn't spill any beads yet! Knock on wood. I haven't decided what fabric to back them with, but fusible interfacing and an iron make this style of ornament a finishing breeze. That's good, because the ones requiring a sewing machine and twisted cord and stuffing...always get put off until the last minute. Like most of you, I'd rather stitch than finish.

Of course, I had to finish the Star Sampler before I could bring myself to start the beaded ornaments. Too many WIPs makes my brain hurt.

2011-10-14T17:13:00.000-04:00

I am sooooo close to finishing the Star Sampler SAL! Love the feeling you get when you finish a project.

And I added to my ornament stash at work Wednesday. I can get into so much trouble just going to work. I plan to get started on these this weekend while watching some football. Hope I don't throw beads all over the room during a hissy fit.

It Was a Dark and Dreary Day...

2011-10-11T11:30:00.000-04:00

Don't you just love those dreary, rainy days when the temps are cool and the breeze is blowing? Most folks find it a little depressing, but I love it because it's the perfect weather for curling up with a good book or, better yet, a beautiful sampler!

I don't do a lot of SALs (stitch-a-longs, for the non-stitchers in the crowd), but I was intrigued by the Star Sampler SAL by Periphaeria Designs. I spent quite a bit of time choosing my fabric and floss. I'm not normally enticed by warm colors, but this piece of fabric that I had in my stash just called out to me. I haven't worked on it in a few weeks, but the final section was made available this week. So I'm thinking I'll finish it this week.

Of course, those ornaments won't stitch themselves, so who knows what I'll be working on. I'm starting to think I have Stitcher's ADD!

Attitude Adjustments

2011-10-06T20:02:00.000-04:00

It's amazing how my attitude improves when I take time to stitch every day! I don't mind my chores (much) when I can look forward to hours of working on something that is really enjoyable. And isn't that the whole point?

The ornaments have not been totally ignored since I started the "Honeysuckle Sampler". Two more are done from Blue Ribbon Designs' "Red Letter Ornaments".

I had a little trouble remembering how to do double backstitch on the diagonal (the filling of the vine), but all in all, this piece gives me a bad case of 'just one more stitch syndrome'.

I love the texture of the brick stitch in the outer petals of the flower and the rows of satin stitch in the inner petals.

Woman Seduced by Band Sampler

2011-10-04T13:59:00.000-04:00

My Christmas ornaments are in peril! Oh no, I've been seduced by the Honeysuckle Sampler. When those final skeins of Au Ver a Soie and Soie Perlee came in the other day, I just could not resist. I did manage to finish the ornie I was working on (that makes four complete), but I really just wanted to put in one band. Quit snickering! So I put in the first dividing band, which is off white four-sided stitches. Then I decided I just needed to see a little color, so I put in the first band. Then it looked sad without the matching dividing band... Are you getting the picture?

Oh, What a Dilemma

2011-10-01T15:24:00.000-04:00

My ornies are progressing nicely, thank you. However, some supplies I ordered for a new project have finally arrived and I want to start it so badly I can't stand it!

Some of you may know that I used to own two needlework shops, but I sold them several years ago. Consequently, I have a monstrous stash. I have so many samplers, most of which I still want and intend to stitch, that my friend, Donna, came to look through them when she opened her shop. She said it was better than looking through the Hoffman catalog. Anyway, when you own a shop you are compelled to stitch pieces that you can use as models. But the best part of being retired is that I can stitch whatever I want, whenever I want! If it happens to be something that is current or popular, I loan it to my LNS, but quite often I pick a project that is out of print or something that most people wouldn't want to stitch. And sometimes, it's something that's been in my stash for YEARS, like the Honeysuckle Sampler.

My dilemma is: Do I start the Honeysuckle Sampler or do I stitch ornaments and gaze longingly at my waiting project? Answer: I'll stitch ornies now and start HS after supper. Tomorrow I'll go thru the whole process again and hope my brain doesn't explode from the stress.

Halloween Decor

2011-09-30T13:54:00.000-04:00

I've never really been into stitching for holidays other than Christmas, but there are a couple of designs that I just couldn't resist. Some would consider this my self portrait... It's "The Horrible Hag" by Ewe and Eye and Friends. You can find it in a number of places on-line, but I like to help out my Etsy friends, so that's the link I included.

And several years ago I stitched "A Delectable Halloween Recipe" by Mosey 'n Me, but I gave it to one of my sisters without taking a picture of it, so you'll have to settle for this. Take my word for it, it's adorable!! Several metallics and buttons and beads are incorporated to add interest. I fringed the bottom and used a stick from the back yard as a dowel to hang it from.

And if you want something already stitched I found several things on Etsy that you should see.
From WhiteRiverSamplers, "H is for Halloween"

Send this card by memoriesbymimi or just decorate with it yourself.

This cute Halloween ghost by StitchnMomma glows in the dark!

And finally, you can decorate and save an animal by purchasing The Tales of Haunted Hollow Halloween House by threedogsnappin.

Breaking a Promise

2011-09-28T15:33:00.000-04:00

I know, I promised I wouldn't post every time I finished an ornament. Apparently, I lied.

In case you were wondering, I am using an overdyed red floss from my stash instead of the one Belinda (Blue Ribbon Designs) called for. These two are from one dye lot, the ones I'm working on now are from a new dye lot that has much more subtle color changes. I like it a lot better. And since most of the recipients never see each other's ornaments, who will know?

Being Creative With Some Friends

2011-09-27T13:05:00.000-04:00

A couple of my artsy friends on Facebook formed a group with the sole purpose of challenging ourselves to create something beautiful every couple of weeks. We all love color and making the most of color combinations, so the Creations Color Challenge Group is our way of pushing ourselves and sharing our creations. This week's color combo challenge (as if you couldn't tell from the photo) is green and orange. I have to admit orange is not one of my favorite colors, but when I pulled out the bead boxes this fob just sort of came to me. It happens that way sometimes, which is good, because I hate it when I have to force it. The results are usually not my best. In fact, I usually leave my designs laying on the workbench, unassembled, for at least a day, so that I can warm up to them. I put this fob together as soon as I laid it out. I added the removable stitch markers for crochet to complete the set. They're not very adventurous, but the set makes a great gift for someone who loves to crochet. Of course, I can also make counting pins for cross stitch and needlepoint or stitch markers for knitting to match the fob too. (Yes, that was a shameless plug.)

Not everyone has posted their items yet this week, but here are three wonderful items. Check out their fabulous on-line shops too!

A gorgeous bracelet and necklace set by CarensJewelryBox on Artfire.

This lovely card is from CrossStitchCards, also on Artfire.

And this boldly beautiful bracelet is by KraftyMax on Artfire.

One Down, Waaaaay Too Many to Go!

2011-09-24T17:15:00.001-04:00

I promise not to post every time I finish an ornament, but now that I have this first one out of the way I'm pumped! This was a limited edition from JBW Designs, but she has an adorable collection of ornaments for you to stitch. I love the trees.

I've kitted up the stuff to do a bunch from Blue Ribbon Designs. I'm starting with the Red Letter ornaments, but I have several different sets of Belinda's from which to choose. Can you tell I'm a fan? I have my own little BRD library. Anyway, I started them this afternoon while watching, via the DVR, Solheim Cup golf. I'm going to have to give up sleep to get my usual 25 to 30 ornaments done in time, but isn't that always the way?

Southport, NC is on the Cross Stitch Map!

2011-09-22T09:29:00.000-04:00

You may or may not know that I work part time and teach at my local needlework shop, Angelwing NeedleArts. A while back, Donna started added some charts of scenes of our local area. Since we live in a resort area you'd think there would be plenty of that kind of thing available. You'd be wrong. I met the designer, Pam Lamonica, one day when she brought in a model and some more charts for the shop. What a lovely person and so enthusiastic about her designs. She has recreated street scenes of the historic area, three of the local lighthouses, and some samplers that incorporate landmarks in our area in her cross stitch designs. Now she has her own web site and I'd like for you to meet our local cross stitch treasure, Lamonica Designs!

Another Fun Finish!

2011-09-21T15:52:00.001-04:00

I can't figure out what I've been doing, but it's not stitching. At least, not as much as I usually do. Anyway, I finished this lovely sampler, as well as a Habitat for Humanity sampler. A group of ladies from our now defunct EGA chapter stitch them for new H for H homeowners in our area. Emily Gorgeina Dixon is a reproduction from Ewe and Eye and Friends. The colors are unusal, but stitched as charted.

Now I'm officially starting the Christmas panic. I usually start my Christmas ornaments in June. Today, I final got around to kitting up some today. It's going to be quite a push to get 25-30 completed this year. Guess I'll have to give up sleep for a while.

Of course, I'm also gearing up for the gift giving rush in my Etsy shop. Don't forget your favorite stitcher, knitter or crocheter. Scissor fobs, counting pins, laying tools, stitch markers...Bling for the needleworker who loves pretty things.

Getting Back in the Swing of Things

2011-08-16T13:54:00.000-04:00

It's been a pretty hectic and stressful couple of weeks, so my stitching time has been limited. Spent a few days with my Mom and a couple of sisters the first week of August and then came home to make my house presentable for company. One of those sisters and her son came for their usual 'last beach trip before school starts' last week and nothing gets done around here when they're visiting. It's like a whirlwind and a half have moved in! The guest room looks like Hartsfield airport baggage claim exploded in there within 30 minutes!

Then on Sunday I woke up to find that I couldn't raise my arm above my shoulder without excruciating pain. (And lowering it was even worse!) At which point I told my sister I wish she'd specialized in orthopedics instead of pulmonology. However, she gave me her diagnosis and told me to call a doctor. (At least she spared the me two aspirin bit.)

So contrary to my usual tendency to procrastinate, I called the ortho who is currently treating my husband for his "very serious foot injury" (I'm quoting the Dr.) and actually got in to see him right away. Betty was right...rotator cuff impingement. I've endured a rotator cuff injury before when Earl took off after a squirrel while I was still holding onto the leash, but the pain was in a different area of the shoulder. Anyway, one cortisone shot and a super duper anti-inflammatory Rx later and I'm stitching again. I will have to do some physical therapy to build up the supporting muscles in my shoulder, but I'm good at following directions and at least I didn't wait as long to see the Dr. as I did the first time. Hopefully, this will be fixed up relatively quickly.

So, here's what I'm doing. It's a reproduction, "Emily Gorgeina Dixon", from Ewe & Eye and Friends. I have no idea how long it's been in my stash, but who cares? It is still available from at least one source. Just Google it. I'm using the recommended Anchor floss (which is my favorite cotton floss) on 40 count linen of some handdyed color of which I cannot remember the name.

Another Fun Finish

2011-08-01T17:55:00.000-04:00

Obviously, I've been stitching rather than blogging. "The Christmas Quilt" by Emie Bishop is done. I laid it on a dark green fabric for the photo so that the hardanger would show up a little better. It was a fun piece to do, except for the cross stitch part. Too much confetti stitching for my taste. Next time I run into something like this I'll take my friend, Laura's, advice and use an overdyed green and an overdyed red and call it good. The back is a mess and I really hate that.

So, I decided to work on my Star Sampler SAL by Periphaeria Designs this weekend while visiting my mom. It's an easy project to work on in the car and doesn't require massive concentration. That's the kind of project I like when I'm not in my 'nest'.

Show and Tell

2011-07-17T14:22:00.000-04:00

I just love this piece! "Cotillion" by Papillon Designs. I finished it a couple of weeks ago, but wanted to get it framed before I shared it.

My current project, "The Christmas Quilt" by Emie Bishop of Cross 'n' Patch, is coming along nicely. The foundation stitching for the hardanger barely took a week, but the cross stitch greenery and berries is way more time consuming. I'm ready to finish it off and start cutting!

Freedom to Stitch

2011-07-03T12:49:00.004-04:00

I hope everyone is enjoying a fabulous 4th of July weekend. In addition to the cookouts and fireworks and family get togethers, don't forget to take a minute to think about what this holiday means. We have the privilege to speak out for what we believe, stand up for ourselves and others without reprisal, the freedom to work to improve our personal situations, and the freedom to worship and profess our beliefs. And we have generations of brave and responsible people to thank for those rights and privileges. So take a minute to think about what it would be like to be afraid to do all those things, or even worse, imprisoned for trying! Then give thanks for the independent thinkers who put their lives on the line and authored the Declaration of Independence, the framers of the Constitution, and those who protect our rights, both past and present. If you have the opportunity today or any day, shake the hand of a veteran or member of the military and let them know you appreciate what they've done. photo courtesy of PatriotIcon.org

So today I'm going to exercise my right to sit on my couch and stitch. I started "The Christmas Quilt" by Emie Bishop of Cross 'n' Patch the other day. The photo's not very impressive because it's all ecru on cream linen, but take my word for it, there is quite a bit of work in there.

Just Make Yourself at Home

2011-06-26T18:08:00.000-04:00

I was planning to stitch all afternoon, but I made the mistake of going down to my workbench for "just a minute". I ended up spending the afternoon working on crochet stitch markers, scissor fobs, and counting pins! Apparently, Otis missed me. I turned around to move some things to the photo station and this pile of old towels was on the floor and Otis had settled himself on the shelf from which he'd removed the towels. Now he has a little nest. I can't bring myself to put them back.

Did I Really Complain about Cold Weather this Winter?

2011-06-24T16:26:00.000-04:00

Summer is definitely here. I am so thankful to live in this technologically advanced era with AIR CONDITIONING! God bless the man who invented it. It's so hot and muggy that Lester lays on the a/c vent and Otis is spread eagle on the hardwood to maximize skin to floor contact. I used to think I was an old soul and would've appreciated life in the 18th century (except for that indoor plumbing thing), but every summer I remember why I'm so glad to be a 20th/21st century woman. Who could possibly stitch in this miserable heat...and by candlelight too?! Ben Franklin is my hero.

I'm still as boring as I was ten days ago, but I have made some progress on "Cotillion". At this point, all the major motifs are done and I just have to fill in the smaller pieces in the bottom third.

I still haven't chosen my next project, but I can guarantee that it will be a band sampler. Enough of these motif samplers. I need some symmetry and logic to soothe my brain.

Time Flies

2011-06-14T16:42:00.000-04:00

It's been pretty hectic around here for a couple of weeks, so I really hadn't noticed how long it's been since I last blogged. But when asked today what I was stitching "because you haven't posted anything in TWELVE days", I decided to post my updated "Cotillion". I love the colors and it's moving along nicely, but I'm ready to do a band sampler with some intricate stitching and some cutwork or pulled work next. Can you believe I'm planning my next project and I'm barely halfway done with this one?

My local shopowner went to the TNNA market in Columbus, OH this weekend and I covered the shop for a couple of days. I'd forgotten how mentally taxing it is for me to be nice to everyone for eight hours, three times in one week! And once I got home I was too tired to stitch which means I didn't get my daily dose of stitch therapy, so it was a double whammy. I haven't spent any time designing for the Etsy shop in a couple of weeks either so this week is devoted to getting back to normal. My husband has settled into a routine and I've adjusted to doing his little chores (mostly) so I'm no long living on the edge of insanity. (No snickering, please.)

Maybe I'll even have something interesting to blog about soon. I realize my life is pretty boring...and I like it that way.

BIG Finish!

2011-06-02T15:40:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to share my Moroccan sampler. It is framed and already hanging on the wall! The frame is a little rustic and has a simple carved pattern that I thought suited the piece well.

A Little Piece of Normal

2011-06-01T22:59:00.000-04:00

It was so nice to be able to have stitch group again. My husband is managing quite well since his foot surgery and I'm comfortable leaving him to his own devices for a while. So, even though several of the regulars are out of town or under the weather, a few of us managed to make it and had a great time. If you are part of a regular group like this you know how valuable that time together is. The group becomes an extension of your family and you're always anxious to find out what's new, how things are going in their lives, and especially what the current stitching projects look like! So we heard about G.'s trip to Italy, marveled over J.'s lovely painted cover of a photo album for her future daughter-in-law, grieved for one of our 'sisters' loss, and just shared a couple of hours of friendship. All in all a wonderful night.

Between helping a couple of ladies with their "Catrina's Christmas" by Keslyn, I worked on "Cotillion" by Papillon.

So Much FUN!

2011-05-28T15:29:00.000-04:00

The last couple of weeks have been a perfect illustration of how I use stitching as therapy. My husband's bike had a structural failure and tossed him over the handle bars. Fortunately, he didn't land on his head. Unfortunately, he suffered a pretty serious foot injury. In my haste to pick him up and high tail it over to the ER, I neglected to grab my stitching bag. I never go anywhere that might involve waiting without my stitching bag! Apparently, I am not very clearheaded during an emergency. But on this particular Sunday morning our small town hospital ER was not very busy and we were only there about four hours. But since that little lapse in thinking, I've taken every opportunity to get some stitching done...when I'm not doing all the little things around the house that he usually does. Not gonna take him for granted ever again!

One of the nurses casually mentioned that she'd broken her arm once and she thought she'd rather have a broken foot. Obviously, she's never been on crutches before. Hellooooo, broken arm --> one hand out of commission; broken foot --> one leg and two hands out of commission unless you're sitting down. So carrying anything is pretty tough unless it fits in your pocket.

While my sweet husband was in surgery (this is NOT the fun part I'm referring to) having his horribly broken and dislocated foot repaired, I was stitching away on the Star Sampler SAL. I'm all caught up and waiting for Part 5! Actually, if I really wanted to I could continue working the border since I memorized it about fifty repeats ago!

But I decided to start "Cotillion" by Papillon instead. This is the fun part! I absolutely love the linen from Picture This Plus. The color is "Phantom" and it is a dark navy with a lot of plum splashed around. There's also a tad of a blue-green in there too. It's fabulous with the Dinky Dyes silk used in the pattern. I haven't gotten far, but it's beautiful and I probably won't be able to put it down until it's done.

Sometimes You Just Have to Stitch Out of the Box

2011-05-21T14:04:00.000-04:00

You may or may not know that I favor cool colors like blues, pinks, purples, emerald greens, etc. I work part time at Angelwing Needlearts, my local needlework shop. Donna, the owner, and I have totally different tastes in colors. She loves gold and brown and olive and lime, etc. It's become somewhat of a shop adjective when talking to the regular customers...'Oh, this yarn is a Donna color' or 'don't you love these Tommye colors?'.

So my choice of colors for the Star Sampler SAL by Periphaeria Designs is waaaaaay out of the box for me. And I love they way they work together. I can't remember the name of the hand dyed linen (36 count), but it's such a rich gold color. I chosed Kelp Waterlilies from the Caron Collection as the main color. My initial choice for a contrasting color turned out to be too close to one of the browns in the Kelp, so I changed it to a orangy-brown Splendor that I never would have considered until I started stitching the piece. Just proves that you cannot accurately predict how overdyed floss is going to work out. But as soon as I filled in that one little spot, I new it was the right choice!

I Could Stare at This One All Day!

2011-05-18T12:20:00.000-04:00

You might remember that I was a little apprehensive about choosing and mapping out the colors on this piece since it was charted as a monochromatic one. Well, after a few minor adjustments as I went along, it is finished and I love it! Don't have any idea when I'll get around to framing it but when I do I'll have to rearrange the 35-40 samplers in my living room/dining room to find just the right place to hang it.

It is an original design by Ute Scheer, Studio of Historical Samplers, inspired by photos of Moroccan samplers in a book of samplers from the V&A museum. I stitched mine on 40 count cream linen using Splendor silk floss. The finished design is 11" x 23.5" (17.9cm x 59.7cm)

Almost Ready for Something New!

2011-05-10T14:09:00.000-04:00

The end is near! No, not Armageddon, the end of the Moroccan sampler.

And of course, the closer it gets to completion the more excited I get about my next project. I finally picked my colors for the Star Sampler SAL from Periphaeria.

I found this hand dyed gold fabric in my stash which, unfortunately, I cannot identify other than the stitch count - 40 cnt. I chose Kelp Waterlilies from The Caron Collection and a deep brown Splendor from Rainbow Galleries.

I've also decided to start "Cotillion" by Papillon. Since the fabric called for is not available I had to go on a search. I chose "Phantom" (36 count) by PictureThisPlus and I also got the Dinky Dyes overdyed silk floss (as called for in the design) from PTP. Fantastic service, by the way!

I'm also in the midst of working on version three of "Catrina's Christmas" by Keslyn. My stitch group finally started the class and I decided to stitch the piece along with them, just so I wouldn't forget anything pertinent about the process. I wrote up about three pages of notes to go along with it. Surely I won't lead them astray with all that guidance. But you never know! I'll have some pics soon.

Gotta Love Great Service

2011-04-30T11:42:00.003-04:00

I almost waited too long to order my frame for The Yellow Rose Sampler! But thanks to email and the amazing service from Tamara and Bob at The Stitches in Time on-line shop I am ready to wrap this baby and give it to Mom! They went out of their way to get it to me quickly since they are at the Celebration of Needlework show in New Hampshire this weekend, but knew I wanted it for Mother's Day. Big thank you to them.

So I'm back to working on the Moroccan sampler. It's been a little slow this week, but I'm still making progress and still loving it.

I've been busy making laying tools for an order from the on-line needlework show a couple of week ago. Tracey at Threaded Needle Designs distributes my beaded needlework tools and she's kind enough to show them when she does the show. This is just one of the ones I have listed in my Etsy shop. If you love pretty stitching tools, check it out. All my scissor fobs are one of a kind and lots of them have counting pins and/or laying tools to match. And I love to do custom sets too. Just ask!

Done!

2011-04-21T16:54:00.000-04:00

I love it when I get things done ahead of schedule! Mother's Day is still over two weeks away and the traditional miniature sampler is done...well, stitched. And with a minimum of frogging, which is good because ripping out stitches on 40 count silk gauze is not particularly fun. Hopefully, I won't procrastinate for too long getting a frame.

The "Yellow Rose Sampler" by Threads Through Time is stitched on 40 count silk gauze with one strand of cotton floss. The finished size is 1 5/8" x 2 1/8".

Breaking My Own Rule

2011-04-17T11:33:00.000-04:00

I told you it would happen. I'm just surprised I lasted this long. The Moroccan sampler is resting for a little while. I'd love to keep working on it, but it's time to start this year's edition of the Mother's Day miniature.

Several years ago I stitched a miniature sampler by Nancy Sturgeon of Threads Thru Time for my mom. She was so delighted that it's become a tradition. (Some of you may remember the duplication fiasco a couple of years ago.)

This year I chose the Yellow Rose Sampler. Each sampler is approximately 1 1/2" x 2" on 40 silk gauze. The colors are the exact ones called for in the chart, but as you can tell, the cover photo is not a true representation of those colors...thank goodness. I was prepared to change them and was pleasantly surprised when I pulled them out.
If you have never stitched on silk gauze it may sound intimidating, but the holes are actually easier to see than fabric. It's more like canvas than fabric. And you work it in tent stitch, which looks like a half stitch on the front. You can tape the gauze to a piece of mat board with an opening big enough to contain the entire design to work it. Or sew it to a piece of fabric as I did and cut away the fabric over the design area so that it can be put in Q Snaps. Since the gauze tends to loosen up in whatever frame you choose, the Q Snap works a little better for me because it's easier to tighten up as you go along.

Hopefully, I'll have this baby whipped out by next weekend!

Do I or Don't I? Hmm...

2011-04-10T13:51:00.000-04:00

I tend to get really involved in certain sporting events on TV. In fact, my husband warns the pups every fall when college basketball season starts because I tend to yell a lot at the Wolfpack (NCSU). And frankly, I can't even watch the State/Carolina game if I hope to keep my blood pressure in a safe range. The Masters, believe it or not, is another one that gets me all riled up. I'm a big Phil Mickelson fan, but I also love the underdog, so the difficulty of the course and the amazing shots that all of those guys manage to pull of just impresses the heck out of me.

So the dilemma during these events, is whether or not to risk massive frogging if I choose to stitch while watching. I usually risk it because I can't stand to watch TV without something to do. And since Phil's chances of making such a huge comeback today are about as good as a snowball's chance in hell, I'm going for it. Here's where I left off last night when I couldn't focus any longer.

Need Something Else to Stitch?

2011-04-07T12:07:00.000-04:00

I should have mentioned this earlier in the year, but Outi of Periphaeria Designs has a SAL going on. The design is her own Star Sampler. She's done several colorways and is encouraging everyone to choose their own. Pretty simple too since there are only two colors of floss. Great way to use one of those funky fabrics that you love, but can't figure out how to make a lot of colors blend.

She just posted the third piece last week, along with some pictures from other participants. There's plenty of time for you to join in. I usually don't start a project until I have all the pieces, but I may have to work on this one soon. So join in and tell Outi that I sent you!

What a Wonderful Life!

2011-04-05T18:08:00.000-04:00

You can't hate having another birthday when something like this shows up in your mailbox! I am so blessed to have so many wonderful friends. My friend, Laura, stitched this glorious sampler by Darlene O'Steen (NeedlesPrayse) for my birthday. It's "The Flower Sampler" done on 40 count linen. Click on it to get a closer look at the amazing stitching.

As you can see, I've been working on my Moroccan sampler. In fact, I haven't posted in over a week because I can't stop stitching long enough to take a picture! I just love watching this piece grow. I will confess to a little frogging, but not enough to make me crazy. So I can't tell you when I'll move on to something else.

It's Starting to Come Together

2011-03-26T16:14:00.000-04:00

So I've been a little anxious about how all these fabulous colors would come together and now I'm starting to get a picture. For such traditionally styled motifs I thought these bright colors might be a little contemporary. And I suppose if I wasn't aware of the Moroccan connection it might not be as attractive to me as it is. But, I love it! It's not going to take nearly as long as I thought it would, if I keep going at this rate. I just can't stop.

Can I See a Show of Hands?

2011-03-22T15:36:00.000-04:00

Anyone who has ever become so caught up in a piece of needlework that they fell prey to the dreaded "just one more stitch" syndrome will know exactly what I'm going through right now. I am loving this Moroccan sampler. I'm so excited about seeing the colors bring the motifs alive and can't wait to get to the next one!

The assymetrical second motif bothers me a little right now, but as soon as I fill in around it I'll be okay. I keep leaning to the side when I look at it like it's going to expand out to the right and become more balanced.

The sad thing is that at some point I'll have to put it down and work on some birthday presents and other obligatory stitching. It's 22 inches long, so you know I'm not going to finish it without taking a break...or am I? hmmm?

This is Gonna be FUN!

2011-03-18T14:33:00.000-04:00

Well, after some research and great advice from a reader, I have chosen my colors for the Moroccan sampler and started stitching. It's very slow going, but quite easy. The wine color doesn't show up very well, in the photo, but it's a beautiful deep color that I hope will balance the piece nicely.

Because the sampler is so large and I'm a control freak, I printed out this black and white picture and tried to map out which colors I'll use where. It's a little hard to visualize, but hey, after decades of following the directions, it's time I stepped outside the box...maybe even off the cliff! LOL

Ready to Move On!

2011-03-14T17:55:00.000-04:00

I just love it when a sampler seems to almost stitch itself! "Hetty Child 1842" by Brenda Keyes is DONE!

Hetty Child went so quickly, I'm ready to indulge myself in a BIG project now. So I've chosen a Moroccan sampler by Ute Scheer-Studio for Historical Samplers, inspired by a photo from a Victoria & Albert Museum catalog. The model was stitched on 35 count natural linen in a cream floss (finished size 11" x 24"). I'll probably do something similar although when I think of Morocco, I think brilliant color. So I think I'll do a little research and see if I can come up with something culturally representative.

Just Keep on Stitching

2011-03-05T12:49:00.000-05:00

Hetty Childs is moving right along, as you can see. Only minor frogging required so far. (Can you feel the happy dance?) Of course, now that I'm in the middle and doing the random motifs, we'll just have to see how long it takes befoe the swearing starts.

It's probably a good thing that this piece isn't very complicated because my focus has been a little lacking this week. Still trying to find my mojo after that bout with the flu, but at least I'm making progress.

I've slowly been adding new scissor fobs and counting pins to my Etsy shop too. If you have trouble with borders or those 'confetti' stitching designs, (you know the ones I'm talking about...here a stitch, there a stitch, always changing colors) try using counting pins. They can be very helpful in making sure you put the right stitch in the right place or get the right number of stitches in that long band.

Something Different for Me

2011-02-26T13:27:00.000-05:00

As you may or may not know, I'm a sampler fanatic. More specifically, I really love band samplers. Probably has something to do with the logical, sequential way my little brain works. I enjoy all sorts of samplers, but I don't stitch a lot of samplers with borders or motif samplers. Having said that, my latest start is "Hetty Child" by Brenda Keyes.

As you can see, I haven't gotten very far, but it took a while to find the right Soie d'Alger conversions for the DMC that's used in the chart. I'm stitching it on 35 count cream so it will be about 9"x9" when completed. I will be paying close attention to my counting since I really don't want to frog that border!

Hate It When Life Messes Up My Schedule

2011-02-23T16:18:00.000-05:00

I fully intended to finish this Lily Sampler last Friday. It was a no brainer! Then the FLU took over my life for the four longest and most physically miserable days of the past two decades! Maybe I just don't remember being this sick or maybe I'm just getting old and can't handle it, but that fever wiped me out. I was a zombie. So I didn't finish the last band and personalization band until Tuesday night. The photos were taken before I added the recipient's name, just in case she's watching!

Working this piece by Amaryllis Artworks has been a joy. I found a couple of new stitches, at least one of which, I will not voluntarily repeat. But I figure that's all part of the process. You'll never know what you like and don't like until you try it. (That's what Mom told me about brussel sprouts. Guess which way I fell on that one!)

Now I'm onto something else. Don't know what yet, but you'll know as soon as I do.

Ready for a Stitching Binge!

2011-02-13T14:14:00.000-05:00

Oh, boy! I'm getting close. I always get excited when I'm nearing the completion of a project. Maybe because I work on one at a time and I know it's almost time to start something new. Anyway, The Lily Sampler is almost done. Only a couple more bands.

And I don't post a lot of recipes, but yesterday I tried this Portobello chili in my slow cooker. One of the best things about using a slow cooker is the wonderful aromas that fill your house as the day goes on. This was no exception. My mouth was watering waaaaay before supper was ready. It was delicious and I promised some folks I'd share the recipe. So here it is. Now being the carnivore that I am, I will probably go half and half with the mushrooms and some Italian sausage next time.

At Least I'm Stitching

2011-02-08T13:36:00.000-05:00

I may not be very good at blogging, but at least I'm stitching. The Lily Sampler is slowly coming along. Some of these stitches are a bit much for 40 count, but at least I don't have to worry about coverage. LOL.

For instance, these flowers are done in cross stitch and arrowhead stitch, which has 3 legs so they're pretty dense. And that last dividing band is more of the French stitch that I complained about before...except this time there is a THIRD row! Every time I think I have it down and try to stitch without the magnifier I end up frogging! So back to the Dazor. Finally finished that band last night. I'm afraid to look ahead and see if there is any more.

It Pays to Read Ahead

2011-01-27T11:10:00.000-05:00

Okay, I know, you look at this picture and think: "She hasn't blogged in a week and this is all she's manged to get done!"

I stitched absolutely nothing while visiting my mom last weekend. And frankly, I'm happy to be this far! You know how I love to stitch on 36 and 40 count. So I changed the fabric on this piece to 40 count Pear from Lakeside Linens. (See, I finally remembered.) However, I should have studied the pattern a little before making this change.

You see that pink dividing band that looks like a zigzag? Well, that is French stitch. Not a particularly common stitch and not really difficult either. It's kinda like a Queen stitch in that each vertical leg over 4 threads is tacked down horizontally in the middle. But the stitches are done in pairs and are verically offset by 2 threads, hence the zigzag look. I love Queen stitches, even on 40 count, but somehow this little band took three nights for me to complete!!! And I had to use the magnifier for the whole thing. Very easy to misplace the couching stitches. Plus, since it's a hand dyed it's already been wet and dryed so shrinkage has already occurred. So the weave is tighter and harder to see. Again, not usually a problem for me, but this was a bugger! I love the effect and since Tuesday night, I've completed the alphabet and almost finished the next dividing band of Bosnia stitch (the dark green one). What a difference. Bosnia is so quick and easy that you're done almost before you start!

I'd love to be able to stitch more during the day, but I'm staying busy make fobs and counting pins and stitch markers, etc. for several new needlework shops. And here's my shameless plug, feel free to tell your LNS about my needlework bling and direct them to my Etsy shop or they can contact me about having some in their shops!

Pulling from My Stash!

2011-01-18T13:17:00.001-05:00

I'm claiming a finish since I decided to consider each band on Margret Gatis 1711 a distinct project. Sunday afternoon while watching the third horriblly played NFL playoff game of the weekend, I finally found all the little things I'd missed and filled them in. It's quite an eclectic band of stitches, motifs and colors. Quite interesting, as a matter of fact. Therefore, you'd think I would move on to another start with some reluctance. NOT. Of course, if I continue this way, I won't be done for eons! This isn't even one third of the complete sampler!

"The Lily Sampler" by Amaryllis Artworks, not to be confused with the equally lovely "Lily Sampler" by Pat Rogers Collection is next on my list. I've had it for close to 20 years and have always loved it. And this is the year I decided to stitch it for reasons that will become clear later.

I'm using the Anchor floss colors that the model was stitched with, but I did change the fabric. I chose a 40 count hand dyed linen from my stash. I believe it is from Lakeside Linens, but I cannot remember the color name. If I figure it out later, I'll let you know. It's a pretty medium green that I think gives the piece a more vintage look and will enhance the floss colors. The finished size on 40 count is approximately 8" x 12.5". I haven't made a lot of progress yet, but here's the start.

Time Management

2011-01-15T13:03:00.002-05:00

You thought this was going to be some New Year's resolution thing, didn't you. Nope. It's all about stitching. This week I've managed to find time to do some real stitching...not that ornaments are real stitching, but I love working on big samplers. And I have really enjoyed work on "Margret Gatis 1711". She definitely falls into that category. All the over two parts of this current band are done.

The center motif is over three and that's what I'll be working on for the rest of the weekend, I'm sure. Then I'll probably put it down and start on something else. "WHAT!?", you say. I know, I'm a one-at-a-time girl. Well, since MG is for me and it's huge, I'm considering each band a separate project. Clever how I justified that, huh?

I managed to do a little, very little, housekeeping and now I'm off to watch football and stitch!

And in the category of 'TJBdesigns Shameless Plugs', drop in at Great Finds and vote for my red heart bookmark! CLUE: It's in the center almost halfway down and the poll is on the left. Feel free to ooh and aah over all the fabulous things Anne selected for this week's poll. There are some amazingly talented people out there!

January Challenge - My Version

2011-01-10T11:25:00.000-05:00

As you may have noticed, I haven't started anything new yet this year! Just the thought of 15 WIPs makes my brain hurt. That's a side effect of being left-brained, I guess. However, I did start my 2011 stitching list. "Margaret Gatis" from Scarlet Letter is the only WIP on it...maybe because it's the only one I have! I started it in 2009 sometime, I think, but got sidetracked by some other piece which had a deadline. Or maybe it was the stitching over 3 threads that sent me over the edge. You have no idea how frustrating it is to stitch over 3 threads unless you've actually tried it.

In any case, when I finished my class model last Friday, I didn't have anything new kitted up yet. So I pulled out MG, unenthusiastically remembering the 'over 3' thing. Much to my surprise I had stopped in the middle of a lovely 'over 2' band. So it must've been a birthday or Christmas gift that caused me to put it away.

I love working on 40 count linen because whether you're using silk or cotton, you only have to use one strand. No railroading or laying tool required. It's a really big piece (8" x 26" on 40 count) so I'll probably lay it down again at some point to work on another deadline piece, but I'm enjoying it right now. And that's what counts.

Yes, I Repeated Myself

2011-01-08T18:19:00.000-05:00

I usually don't like to stitch the same design a second time, especially immediately after stitching it the first time. But I made an exception this time. As mentioned previously, I stitched "Catrina's Christmas" by Keslyn for my friend, Donna, for Christmas. When I showed the design to my stitch group before Christmas, several mentioned that they'd like to do it too sometime.

Stitching it was a lot of fun, but as I'm sure you've all experienced, sometimes there are things that are not intuitively obvious from the instructions. Sometimes you learn as you go along, the best way to stitch a band or motif. And sometimes you even find ambiguities or errors in a chart. And as I worked on it I realized that it would make a great teaching piece because of the things I learned as it progressed. So I played with colors and fibers and made my choices. I showed you my first night's work several days ago. I finished it today and I am quite pleased.

I used Waterlilies "Geranium" as my pink overdyed, Splendor 814 (pink) and 906 (green), DMC #8 Perle Coton 368, and Kreinik #4 braid 001J (silver metallic), stitched on dark teal 28 count linen. The beads are Mill Hill 553 and 4mm cranberry bicone beads.

Here's a close up that show all of the various pieces. I hope having stitched it twice and taken copious notes will make it easier and more fun for those who choose to take the class. Frankly, selecting your fabric and fiber colors may be the hardest part!

Last of the Christmas Finishes

2011-01-03T13:42:00.000-05:00

Here's the last of the I-couldn't-show-you-at-the-time finishes. This is "Catrina's Christmas" by Keslyn. I stitched it for my friend and local needlework shopowner, Donna. Lots of fun stitches and intricate combinations. I love the geometry of it. The ribbon made of bead loops is a nice, but amazingly easy, touch.

When I showed this to my stitch group about half of them wanted to do it and asked me to teach it. So I came up with a spring colorway.

A Gift of Love

2011-01-01T16:48:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but one of the best parts about stitching for someone is picking a design that you know they will love. My sister has the same feeling when she's shopping for a gift...and she's a serious shopper! And it's so much fun to go through my stash and dig out something that I know is perfect and I can't wait to stitch it. So it definitely helps when my tastes are similar to the person I'm stitching for. Such is the case with this piece. "Richmond Band Sampler", by Darlene O'Steen of The Needle's Prayse, has been on my list for over a decade...almost two! And this year I decided to stitch it for my friend, Laura's, birthday.

I Promised to Share

2010-12-29T11:37:00.000-05:00

It's not like I haven't been stitching. I just couldn't share some of it with you because they were gifts. Hopefully, I'll get my organized life back soon and have more stitching time.

My beautiful great-niece, Miri, was born in September. So my sister-in-law stitched a lovely needlepoint piece for her and I framed it. The white washed vintage style frame really fit the style of the piece, I think.

Then I decided I needed to stitch a birth sampler for her, so I used one of my favorite ones with a few minor color adjustments. "Heirloom Baby Sampler" by Heart in Hand from 1995. And yes, it is still available. Just as your local needlework shop to order it from Hoffman. The verse is especially sweet. "It is not a slight thing when they, who are so fresh from God, love us."

And, of course, you've seen Shores of Hawk Run Hollow unframed. Well, I did manage to get it framed in time to give it to my husband for Christmas. It's pretty nice, if I do say so myself.

Christmas Makes Me FAT!

2010-12-19T13:50:00.000-05:00

This weekend has been dedicated to baking and some last minute stitching!!! And it's not the stitching that makes me fat. I love to bake but I don't do it very often because I can't afford the calories. But at Christmas I really enjoy making up "goodie" plates for the mail carrier, the fab folks at our vet's office, my hairdresser aka "The Miracle Worker", just to mention a few. And I get a real kick out of certain people requesting seconds! I don't bake a lot of cookies, but I have some wonderful treats that I make every year. Here's a real quickie that no one will ever suspect is so easy. Enjoy!

Poor Man's Toffee

1 sleeve of saltines

2 sticks of butter (1 cup)

1/2 cup suger

1 large (12 oz) bag of semi sweet chocolate chips.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Melt butter and sugar in a small sauce pan. Line a jelly roll pan with aluminum foil. Lay saltines on foil in a single layer. Spread melted butter/sugar over saltines. Bake for exactly 15 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over top. Return to oven for 2 minutes. Remove from oven and spread chocolate. Cool. Break into pieces.

Here are a few more ornaments that I've stitched. You'll have to wait til after Christmas to see the non-ornament things I've stitched recently. You just never know who's reading my blog.

I Feel SOOOO Productive!

2010-12-15T13:52:00.000-05:00

I finished some more ornaments and just wanted to share them.

Handmade Ornaments from Some of My Friends

2010-12-13T14:12:00.000-05:00

Not only do I stitch ornaments, I BUY handmade ornaments! I just love them. Here are three that I bought this year from some wonderful artisans on Etsy. And all of them are hanging on my tree this year! Treat yourself to some too. You can't go wrong with handmade!

The stained glass Moravian star is from LAGlass . I was particularly thrilled to find these because I am Moravian and this is a traditional Christmas symbol of our Christian denomination.

The precious quilted ice skate ornament is made by TheQuiltedHouse. She has lovely quilted items including more skates and stocking ornaments.

The gorgeous fabric pine cone ornament is just one of several colors created by WhimsicalWinston. And I know from personal experience that all of them are stunning! Not that I'm giving away any secrets or anything.

2010-12-12T12:10:00.000-05:00

I've been in a finishing frenzy, which is not to say that I'm a great finisher, but I can't give ornaments with ragged edges and no hanger. So I do what I can to make 'em look pretty on the tree. Here are a few more that my family and friends will recieve this year.

Busy, Busy, Busy

2010-12-07T10:39:00.000-05:00

I know, you don't even recognize me anymore. I apologize, dear Blog, for neglecting you. But you see, so many people want stitch markers and scissor fobs and counting pins for cross stitch and needlepoint, that I've been chained to my workbench. I feel a little like one of the elves, but not as cute. And when I'm not working on needlework bling or bookmarks I'm stitching away on ornaments for my family and friends.

For those of you who think you might be getting one this year, it might be one of these! ...or it might not be. :)

Woohoo! Shores of Hawk Run Hollow is Done!

2010-10-17T13:17:00.000-04:00

I finally finished it! I was going to wait until it was framed, but who knows how long that will take. So here it is!

Fall is Here!

2010-10-05T15:16:00.000-04:00

The weather in southeastern NC has finally cooled off a bit. Yes, we had a week of rain, but frankly, I welcomed it. It allowed me to get some stitching done without feeling guilty for not being outside. I have to rationalize stitching during the day, you know. Plus we were 16 inches behind in annual rainfall. Although we really didn't need to get it all back in 3 days! Fortunately, living on sand means it drains pretty quickly.

I know I have neglected my blog lately. But I have been stitching. I've been doing semi small projects, not to be confused with the eternal, hopefully soon to be done Shores of Hawk Run Hollow!

I finished "Acorn Hill" and it will be on it's way to someone soon.

And I picked up this little gem from La D Da just because. Sometimes you have to do that to reestablish your love of stitching. Not that I ever quit loving to stitch, but there are so many projects I feel I have to do that working on something just for the heck of it is a nice break.

Framing Makes a World of Difference!

2010-09-23T17:06:00.000-04:00

Here are a couple more pieces that I stitched but just got around to framing. The first is "Quaker Samplings II" by With My Needle. So much fun to do and if I wasn't such a selfish witch, I'd give it to someone. Oh, wait. I gave away Quaker Samplings I! I think I'll keep this one.

And "Grace Mason Sampler" by Of Female Worth is one of my all-time favorite pieces. I loved every minute...okay, I only tolerated the days stitching over one thread on 40 count...and I am definitely keeping this one. In fact, it's hanging on my living room wall right now.

Now I'm in the mood to start another big project, but I can't. The Christmas Panic of 2010 has ensued. I'm starting on ornaments and I still have one more block + on Shores of Hawk Run Hollow to finish for you-know-who's Christmas present.

Stitching Friends are the BEST!

2010-09-21T15:39:00.000-04:00

Today's show-and-tell includes some amazing stitched pieces that I received this year for my birthday. Now don't get excited and send me all sorts of birthday wishes because it was six months ago! I'm just now getting around to framing these beauties. I want to share them with you and since you can't all stop by my house to ooh and aah over them, these pictures will have to do. (Plus I won't have to check your pockets when you leave.)

MG 1838 is a reproduction by Wild Heart Designs. My friend, Laura, is an amazing stitcher and everything she does is just perfect. I have examples of her work all over my walls!

And my friend, Karen, who apparently requires only about three hours of sleep a night, stitched this precious little sampler for me. Her stitching is perfect...I'm repeating myself, but it's true.

I am truly blessed to know these ladies.

Busy! Busy! Busy!

2010-09-19T17:22:00.000-04:00

I've been a framing fool this week. Although it took a lot longer than I thought it would. I'm not used to framing about a dozen things at once. Assembling frames, cutting foam core, pinning, fitting, taking pics...whew! I'm pooped. I'm not going to post them all at once, so keep checking back. Most are my work. A couple are gifts from some of my VERY good friends...you know, the generous stitching friends that we share so much with.

I'll start with four Christmas ornament designs from K. Elaine Kramer Designs. These designs are not ornaments, but pictures of ornaments. They are stitched on 22 count Janina and are about 5"x8". I stitched these in late 2008 and early 2009 right before I opened my Etsy shop.

Since then, they have been languishing in my done pile while I decided how to finish them. I finally decided on frames only.

The hardanger and metallics and beads don't show up very well, but you can zoom in, I think.

Love it When They're Framed

2010-09-13T17:31:00.000-04:00

You'd think after almost forty years of stitching, I wouldn't be surprised any more by the splendiciousness (new word, so much more descriptive than "splendor") that a frame adds to a piece of needlework. I finished "Quaker Diamonds" some time ago, but I just now found the time to frame it. So I'm sharing it again. Enjoy. (More to come later this week. I'm on a framing binge.)

Back in the Swing of Things

2010-09-12T11:39:00.000-04:00

I am finally able to spend some time on something other than getting ready for the Oak Island Craft Show. Actually, I've spent the week since the show recuperating and reorganizing. It was fun, sold some stuff, and had a great time visiting with Elaine, of FigTreeBoutique. We shared a booth and a lot of laughs. Now I'm packing up an order for Tracey of Threaded Needle Designs to take to the TNNA needlework market in St. Charles, MO later this month. Check out her beading designs. I recently used Tracey's "Tumbling Blocks" design on a custom order needlecase! I'm very excited about Tracey being my new distributor. Hopefully, lots of new shops will be carrying TJBdesigns needlework accessories very soon!

And now I also have some time to stitch! Woohoo! My mental health is dependent on it, you know. I put "Shores of Hawk Run Hollow" on the back burner for a short time to work on "Acorn Hill" by Little House Needleworks. I had almost none of the recommended floss colors, so I decided to color outside the lines by choosing some from my extensive stash. Most of the time we buy a chart because we like the colors and how they are incorporated in the design. But we all know that the photo on the cover doesn't always accurately represent the colors. So I didn't even try to find out what the recommended colors really looked like. I chose ones that matched the cover photo. And I'm pleased at what I've come up with. (The colors in the photo of my stitched piece came out a little lighter than they really are.)

Stitching Time is Sooooo Wonderful

2010-08-21T13:27:00.000-04:00

I've been making an effort to stitch every night this week. Having houseguests, as fun as it is, really puts a crimp in my stitching time. Since I finished Abigail's Wisdom, I'm back on Shores of Hawk Run Hollow. Block 10, the ship in a bottle, is done and I started on Block 11 last night. Letters are soooo easy and they go so quickly.

During the day I am spending all my time getting ready for the Oak Island craft show. I started spreading the finished things out on the dining room table so I could get a feel for any gaps in the inventory. I like to have color coordinated sets of fobs, counting pins and laying tools. Plus when, possible I coordinate some stitch markers for knitting and crochet with some fobs too.

I have a few bookmarks ready, but not nearly enough! I haven't even started on extra laying tools yet! So I may not come up for air for the next week or so!

Another One Bites the Dust

2010-08-10T22:12:00.000-04:00

As predicted, I finished Abigail's Wisdom on Sunday. This picture really doesn't do it justice, but I can't seem to get a better one. Apparently the verse was taken from some writings of Abigail Adams to her husband, John, while he was helping to write the US Constitution. She was a an intelligent and well read woman, ahead of her time in her progressive attitudes.

So, now I'm back to Shores of Hawk Run Hollow and enjoying the ease of the ship in a bottle block.

It's Official!

2010-08-06T20:27:00.000-04:00

Yes, hang a banner. It's official. I'm old.

Today we adopted a 3 year old Pug named Otis. I met him last December when he was rescued last from life in a basement that included 2 trips a day outside. The lovely lady from my town that took him in knew that she was not equipped to care for such an active young dog long term. Her husband is in failing health and she, herself, does not get around easily. So even though he was in a loving home with another dog and a cat to play with there was no exercise for Otis. And if you know anything about pugs, they are pretty active dogs, especially when they are young, and need daily exercise to avoid weight gain...kinda like me. He has gained a few pounds since December. But he's sooooo cute! And sooooo happy.

Now Lester, the WonderPug is ten. His amputation at age 4 has probably aged him a little quicker than normal, but he is young at heart. He's been an only child for almost 18 months. I haven't noticed extreme grieving, but I have wondered if he missed having another dog around. So we have been contemplating adopting another dog for a little while. As much as I love puppies, I decided I am not prepared to take on the training involved.

So now we get to the explanation for the banner. OMG! Otis arrived about 11:00 a.m. It is now 8:00 p.m. This is the first time he has closed his eyes since he got here and he's been laying in the same spot for 7 minutes...a record for the day. He has played with every dog toy in the house, including some I haven't seen out of the toy box in at least five years! He's faster than lightening going up the stairs, something else I haven't seen in at least five years. I am exhausted! Maybe a puppy that sleeps three hours out of every four would have been easier.

Otis is adapting amazingly well. He has not whined (except when he couldn't get a toy out of the bottom of the box). He hasn't had a single accident in the house. He and Lester seem to get along. Lester has been the alpha dog since he was about a year old. Earl deferred to him even though Earl was 2 years older. Molly, the Yorkie, Otis has been living with is also an alpha dog, which is pretty funny when you try to picture it. Anyway, this hierarchy is apparently not going to be a problem for either Lester or Otis. Lester doesn't like to run on the hard wood floors much anymore...kinda slippery for a 3 legged dog, but he played with Otis some today and showed no aggression. Dinner went smoothly. And now, both are down for the count...I hope.

I'm sure you'll hear more about Otis and Lester in the days to come.

Abigail's Wisdom

2010-08-02T16:20:00.000-04:00

This is the kit that I took with me on our trip and barely got started before we got home. LOL But since we've been home I've been stitching every night and really enjoying it. I've decided to give this "Abigail's Wisdom" sampler to my mom for her birthday. She expects one now! I used some Chestnut 32 cnt linen that I had in my stash and I was a little worried that it was too dark, but the silks in the kit are brighter than I expected and I think it's working out nicely. Even though the alphabet and verse are tent stitch over one, it goes quite quickly. I should have it done by the weekend, if not sooner. Then I plan to go back to Shores of Hawk Run Hollow ... we'll see.

Quaker Diamonds is DONE!

2010-07-28T10:10:00.000-04:00

Actually, I finished it last week right before we left on a fun little road trip to celebrate our 28th wedding anniversary! I planned to post this while we were away, but I just never got around to it. Anyway, I finished re-stitching the letters fairly quickly and pulled out Shores of Hawk Run Hollow to work on the last three blocks, but didn't get much done there either. LOL

Then I realized that July is almost over and I haven't started thinking about my Christmas stitching yet! So, the Christmas Panic has officially begun. I'll try not to whine about it too much, but I really have to get busy.

But I have another project to take care of first. I have to beef up my inventory of needlework bling. My friend Elaine from FigtreeBoutique on Etsy has convinced me to give a local craft fair a shot. She has quite a bit of experience doing them and is sure that there are lots of knitter, stitchers, and crocheters attending craft shows. So we'll be hawking our wares the Saturday of Labor Day weekend at the Oak Island Craft Fair. If you're in the area, stop by and say "hi".

Just a Short Break from Quaker Diamonds

2010-07-19T18:38:00.000-04:00

Well, I finished Quaker Diamonds...sort of. I spent several evenings "proofing", that is, looking for all the little individual stitches that I'd missed the first time around. Finally, I pronounced it done, did the "happy dance" (which you do NOT want to witness for fear of wetting your pants from laughing so hard). Then I realized that I had stitched about two thirds of the alphabet in ...wait for it... the wrong color! Shoot me now. I knew it was one of the dark colors and I just picked up the wrong one. Sooooo, I'm frog stitching and re-doing them in the correct blue-black. C'est la vie.

In the meantime, I needed to stitch a little something for my sister, B., for her birthday next week. So I picked up one of the many heart designs from Sweetheart Tree which I have had in my stash for at least 18 years! They make great little gifts. It probably took me almost as long to assemble as it did to stitch. But it's cute and she loves blueberries.

How Much Longer Can It Take!!!?

2010-07-10T13:07:00.000-04:00

I look at the big picture and I feel like I'm getting sooooo close, but there are so many little motifs to complete! And frankly, as much as I love this piece, I'm ready to move on. I'm not used to working so slowly. Hopefully, you'll see something different here by the first of August.

Do You Love Bargello?

2010-07-08T11:53:00.000-04:00

Most people think of Bargello as a family of stitches for canvas work, but lots of designers use it in their samplers on linen. And I became fascinated with it several years ago. You may remember the needlebooks I made for gifts for my stitch group last Christmas. So many patterns and variations allow you to indulge your creativity. Anyway, I discovered. this site dedicated to bargello and wanted to share it with you. Enjoy. You should probably bookmark it because you'll be coming back time and time again.

Just Chillin' and Stitchin'

2010-07-06T10:28:00.000-04:00

Oh, I do so love to be at home in my stitching nest just enjoying whatever project I'm working on. And that happens to be Quaker Diamonds ... STILL. But I am getting closer. It's amazing how much progress one can make when you actually have time to stitch. Unfortunately, my shoulder is acting up a little so I haven't been able to stitch for hours on end like I used to. But it's still so wonderful to see the piece take shape.

2010-07-05T17:07:00.000-04:00

Oh boy! I found another stitching blog to follow! Eat*Stitch*Love

And the bonus is she's having a Christmas in July GIVEAWAY!

Check it out!

I am an American

2010-07-03T13:21:00.000-04:00

On the eve of American Independence Day, I am so grateful for the gift of freedom. Freedom to pray, to disagree with our leaders, to read whatever catches my fancy, to speak out in favor of something politically controversial, to go where I want, to live where I choose, to befriend whomever I like, to work at something I love, to write a silly blog about my hobby. It's all important. Remember that when someone tries to take it away. Thank God for those who were, and those who still are, willing to die to protect the freedom we enjoy.

Like most Americans, I take it for granted and probably don't appreciate it as I should. Which is why holidays like the Fourth of July are so important and special. I still get chills every single time I hear the Star Spangled Banner. My heart gives a little jump when I see our service men and women in uniform. As corny as it sounds, I love to see the stars and stripes waving in the breeze.

So I say it with pride. I am an American.

Hot and Muggy is All Right With Me

2010-06-27T11:15:00.000-04:00

Happy Sunday to you. It's a glorioius day...if you like heat and humidity. I promised my husband 17 years ago I would not complain about summer in the south ever again, having lived in the Pacific NW where summer is defined by three consecutive days of sunshine and 80 degrees. However, the older I get the harder it is to keep that promise. Who am I kidding! I complain EVERY summer. But I admit it's not summer without the heat and humidity. And I will always be glad to be living back in the South. Don't get me wrong. Washington state is a beautiful place, but NC is home. In a job interview my senior year in college I was asked if I was willing to relocate. I replied I was. Then he asked where I wanted to be in ten years. I thought he was referring to career objectives. He wasn't. He explained that in his vast experience most people want to move back to within 100 miles of where they grew up within ten years. I lasted thirteen, but I now understand.

So, even though it's hot and muggy outside, I can still stitch without dripping all over my work. And I really should find out the name of the genius who invented air conditioning so I can pray for him to be blessed every day. Here's my latest on Quaker Diamonds.

Are you a Gadget Person?

2010-06-21T12:31:00.000-04:00

Just wondering. There are so many great gadgets available to stitchers these days. I remember when I first got a Boo Boo stick. Hated when I had to use it, but loved how it got out all the fuzz from ripped out stitches. There are cute little painted magnets for keeping those loaded needles handy (and not in the couch cushion). And don't forget chart magnifiers and line markers...all very helpful in making your stitching time more efficient. And we all know that's important because we have a pile of projects lined up until doomsday!

Of course, I'm partial to scissor fobs. Even before I started making beaded ones for my Etsy shop, I collected and stitched them for my scissor collection. Besides being pretty, hopefully when you drop your scissors, the fob hits first so the points are damaged. Counting pins are helpful too. Even though counting is the easy part for me, it's still helpful when you're starting a row of 200 stitches to mark every 50 or so. That makes me not so paranoid about miscounting that I count the entire row 8 times! Because you know you'll come up with at least 4 different counts. LOL And if you are doing a big bargello area on canvas large counting pins can be used to mark the top of the row and the bottom to ensure that you don't get carried away with the ups and downs of the pattern.

Now, I've added beaded laying tools to my shop. Great for canvaswork since you are usually making larger stitches with more strands of fiber. So many opportunities for them to get twisted. Laying tools or stilettos are a big help. They're also helpful on cross stitch project because it's amazing how easily two strands of floss twist just as they slip through the linen. I'll be adding more on a regular basis, but I'd love to hear your thoughts on them.

Quaker Diamonds Lives!

2010-06-19T11:52:00.000-04:00

I realize I may have to reintroduce myself to some of you because I haven't posted in almost three weeks! I've been traveling back and forth to my mom's since her shoulder surgery. Her balance was really messed up for a while and we were afraid to leave her alone because she fell so often. But she's out of the sling and improving daily. Physical therapy has begun...not to be confused with anything one would look forward to.

Anyway, I figured out long ago that I don't get a lot of stitching done when I'm away from "my nest", but apparently I have nothing to blog about if I'm not stitching. Does that mean my life has a narrow focus or is stitching just the only interesting thing I do. Hmmmmm.

Quaker Diamonds has grown, but not as much as I would have wanted in this period of time. But here it is and hopefully I'll have more to show more frequently now. My mental health really suffers when I don't get to stitch every day. So you should probably be glad that I haven't filled my blog with immense whining! LOL

DMC knows about TJBdesigns!

2010-05-30T08:32:00.000-04:00

Have you checked out DMC's blog? Well, this weekend they are featuring cross stitch related Etsy shops in a Memorial Day Street Fair and TJBdesigns is one of the shops chosen! I'm very excited and honored. Tell all your friends!

I'm not back yet, but I'm on my way

2010-05-29T07:05:00.003-04:00

I know I've neglected my blog this month. It just couldn't be helped. Mom's shoulder surgery went well, but we're not comfortable leaving her alone because her sense of balance is not good. So I've been running back and forth. When I'm there, I don't really have much to say and when I'm home I'm busy trying to catch up with all the daily stuff, plus my Etsy work. Hopefully, I'll be back in the swing soon.

I have made a little progress on Quaker Diamonds. My stitching time is more limited than it's been in twenty years! I'm not used to going so slowly, but at least it's fun. As you can probably tell, my usual method of stitching every stitch of a particular color has been altered a little. I'm going page by page on this one, but still stitching by color on each page.

And on the Etsy front, I have added the first of my new line of beaded laying tools. Stay tuned, more to come!

My Great Find!

2010-05-16T15:36:00.000-04:00

Ever since Faye and I went on the big flower frog hunt a few weeks ago, I've been thinking about one I saw on Etsy. The size wasn't included in the description, so I kind of forgot about it. I finally contacted the seller and found out it's exactly what I wanted so...I bought it! It's different from any I've seen and I love it. I filled it up with some of my scissors and I guess I'll just rotate others every now and then.

And on the stitching front, I didn't get a lot done while at my mom's but I have made some progress on Quaker Diamonds. Hopefully, now I can get back on track and stitch every day like I'm used to doing.

Stitching Withdrawal...Not

2010-05-05T11:02:00.001-04:00

I haven't stitched a lick in three days now and frankly, I'm too tired to even care.

Mom's surgery went well. And as directed, we are trying to stay ahead of the pain. The meds make her loopy, but NOT sleepy. She's keeping us on our toes trying to figure out what to do and how to help. So don't expect too much out of me blog-wise for a little while.

Recognize Your Limitations

2010-05-01T15:45:00.003-04:00

Sometimes show-and-tell just gets me in trouble. A couple of weeks ago a customer at Anglewing Needlearts brought in some placemats she had made using four different fabrics cut into triagles for the fronts and a fifth for the back. They were beautiful and, according to her, "so quick and easy". (Remember this later.) Mom's been complaining about not having any spring/summer placemats.
So I immediately thought this would make a great make-up present for last year's Mother's Day.

I went to the quilting fabric room and starting playing with fabrics. Came up with a gorgeous combination. Went home. Procrastinated a week or so. Finally laid the fabric out and starting cutting. Took the pieces up to the sewing machine. (Should have remembered the only thing I like to use it for is zig-zagging the edges of my linen.) Started sewing the triangles together. After much cussing and swearing, got all four tops assembled and VOILA...they are SQUARE!

What a doofus. I forgot when I was cutting them out that they should have been rectangles. DH says we can use them because he thinks all our placemats are too small. What a guy! I can always count on him to make me feel better, even if he's lying.

So I went back to the shop and picked out different fabrics and started the whole process over. However, getting the correct triangle pieces together with the correct edges together, then sewn to the backs with the batting smoothly between the layers proved to be a long, arduous, and seam-ripping fiasco. Finally got them done. Oh, and the small pieces left over that I cut out for coasters?...still sitting on the sewing machine. Hope they don't dry rot before I get them made.

In the meantime, remember how excited I was to start "Quaker Diamonds"? Well, I started it on some 40 count Lambswool that I had distressed some with the liquid spray stuff. I worked on it for a couple of nights before I finally realized the fabric was too darks to effectively showcase the Valdani floss. Soooo, I ripped it all out. (If I left if for whenever I decided I needed that piece of fabric, it would never get done.) I cut a piece of 40 count Pearled Barley, zig-zagged the edges (only thing I should EVER used the sewing machine for), and rubbed some old coffee grounds in a couple of spots to mildly distress it. So this is what I've managed to accomplish since the restart.

To Your Health

2010-04-29T12:23:00.001-04:00

It's Thankful Thursday again...and I actually remembered. So I guess I'm thankful that my memory is not totally shot.

I grateful today that my mom is in good health. She's having shoulder surgery next week and all her doctors have been encouraging her to do this to relieve the pain she's been suffering. She's not looking forward to it, of course, but I keep telling her they must think she has a lot of years left to enjoy if they are pushing it this hard. And at ?0 years old, I think that's a really good sign.(I'm almost ready for the Sr. discount and she was not a teenager when I was born.)

So, let's all give our folks a big hug before Mother and Father's Day (and every day) and be thankful for their love, support, and good health.

And Daddy, I'd hug you if I could.

Good News! I Did Not Die of Boredom

2010-04-23T14:14:00.001-04:00

Okay, there may be a few people who don't consider that good news.

I finished Block 8 of Shores of Hawk Run Hollow. It's a relief to know that extreme boredom probably won't be listed as COD (cause of death). But it was close. I hate filling in the background. As you can see, I replaced the memorial verse with my personalization. Now I only have 3 blocks left to stitch by Christmas. Piece of cake!

It was after 10:30 last night when I put the last stitch in, but I immediately pulled Quaker Diamonds out of my bag and started it. I'm so excited. I may stitch all weekend.

Can One Actually Die of Boredom?

2010-04-20T17:32:00.014-04:00

I'm STILL filling in the background on block eight of Shores of Hawk Run Hollow. I may lose my mind before it's done. Every other block has been a joy to work, but this one....

So, I decided to do some of that framing I mentioned recently. A couple of weeks ago I mentioned I had eleven pieces to frame. That number is now thirteen. Well, actually it's ten because I finished three. Thank goodness.

I can't believe I've been so involved in my Etsy shop over the last year that I just got around to framing "Mary Wigham" and my 2009 birthday sampler ("Sampler 101") from Laura! I am out of control.

"Pigalle" was my first 2010 finish and I love it! And I actually managed to get Mom's silk gauze sampler for Mother's Day franed with time to spare!

It's Thankful Thursday, Hug a Stitcher!

2010-04-15T16:16:00.004-04:00

I've seen this idea on other blogs and I've decided to try to incorporate it in mine too. And this is a great Thursday to start.

I'm thankful today for my stitching friends...all of them! We enjoy each other's company, we understand this crazy addiction, we support and encourage each other. And yesterday I got this wonderful package in the mail. Laura stitched this beautiful sampler for my birthday and she added a chart I've admired too. I stitched this piece for another stitching friend and Laura knew I loved it so she stitched it for me. Isn't it gorgeous?

People have asked me if I sell my needlework and I always answer, I'd rather give it away to someone who will love it as much as I do. Now I have sold a few pieces, but that's the exception, not the rule. This is what we do. We share our passion for needlework with each other in the best way possible. We enjoy stitching it and we know the recipient will enjoy it just as much. What better gift can there be?

On the personal stitching front, I'm working on block 8 of Shores of Hawk Run Hollow, and I have to admit it's more of a chore than fun right now. It's a little on the bland side compared to all the other blocks. So I haven't even put my next project in my stitching bag. I know if I do, I'll start it before I finish this block and that would be bad. And before you ask..."Quaker Diamonds" is next in line. I can't wait to start it.

I Really Did Finish

2010-04-10T17:55:00.000-04:00

I finished this little silk gauze sampler on Tuesday, but have been occupied with other things this week. So I thought I'd better show you how it turned out. And I have a plan for a frame.

And I started block 8 of Shores of Hawk Run Hollow. I charted my personalization replacement for the memorial in the original. It's great to be making such great progress on my stitching lately. It just makes me want to stitch more.