Smiling Stitcher

Two More Prairie Schooler Blocks Finished

2010-02-28T09:56:00.001-08:00

Blocks E and F have been added to D!

D*E*F by The Prairie Schooler

25ct Fairy Dust evenweave

DMC cotton floss

E is for Embroidery

I had fun with this block and added a little dimension with the spools of thread.

F is for Friends

I had more fun with this block by adding a padded satin heart . . .

and french knot flowers . . .

Here are the changes I made to these blocks:

E Block:
Tapestry: background 938; flowers & leaves: 3362 to 3363, 3011 to 3013, 3857 to 3722, 422 to 677, 3828 to 422; Letter E: 3363; Leaves: next to face 3012; Lady: hair 938, face & hands 754; Hoop stand: 938, linen 712, embroidered initials & year; Cat: added whiskers; Spools: 3857 to 3858, used padded satin stitch (1 strand) on both with blue thread going thru needle & red thread hanging loose.

F Block:
Tree Trunk: 434; Doors: 3829; Window: flowers French Knot 1 strand, stems 3013; Girls: hair 838, dresses 3768 & 3363; Cup: BS 3858: Heart in hand: padded satin stitch 2 strands; Key: 3013.

Hop on over to the Prairie Schooler ABC Stitching Bee here and check out all the fun!

Here's my total progress so far . . .

Blocks D, E, F, & M, N, O. Where to go next????

Winter Heart

2010-02-28T09:51:00.000-08:00

Another quirky humbug

Winter Hearts by Just Nan

28ct White Opal Cashel Linen

DMC & GAST

beads

This could have been finished as an ornament or fob by adding a hanger. Instead I added weight to the bottom to give it stability for use as a pin cushion.

D is for Drum

2010-02-21T05:36:00.000-08:00

Letter D from The Prairie Schooler D*E*F (Book No. 99)

25ct Fairy Dust Lugana

DMC cotton floss

Another letter completed in The Prairie Schooler alphabet. Just a few changes:

Drumsticks: 680

Drum: blue 311, red 3858, green, 3012

Letter D: 372

Acorns: 680
Eagle: wish I had stitched the body in a lighter color - 3371 is so stark making this eagle look 'headless' instead of just bald - all you see is body.

teresa w asked if I complete each x stitch before going on to the next. In this design, because there are large areas of one color, I will do the bottom leg of the cross stitch all the way across a row and then complete the top part of the stitch on the way back. In smaller areas I will complete each stitch individually being careful not to lose the floss behind the threads of the linen.

I seem to be doing a lot of ripping out (feel like I'm stitching this twice). As I'm going along I'm choosing lighter shades. The ripping out is creating a great deal of frustration but I am determined to complete this entire alphabet. The design is just wonderful. I can't wait to move on to "E is for Embroidery". I'm already thinking of ideas for those spools of thread.

Snowy Delight

2010-01-20T13:56:00.000-08:00

For all my snowbound friends out there . . .

Winter Wonderland by Little House Needleworks (Chart No. 32)

28ct Natural Raw Linen

DMC cotton floss and Crescent Colours

We haven't experienced any snow here but lots and lots of rain .

Stay warm, my friends - feathered and otherwise!

Alphabet

2010-01-13T11:25:00.000-08:00

Our holidays were wonderful - hope yours were, too. Lots of family, food & friends!

I did find time to start a new project before the year ended (oh no, not another one!!!) I just couldn't resist. When Vonna (The Twisted Stitcher) posted a flickr picture on her blog showing this completed design I new I had to do it. Just had to! SOOOOOOO

I finished 2009 and started 2010 stitching on this project:

M*N*O by The Prairie Schooler

25ct (over 1) Fairy Dust evenweave

DMC cotton floss

This alphabet is a series of 9 leaflets with 3 letters charted in each. For inspiration and encouragement I joined the Prairie Schooler ABC Stitching Bee blog here. I hope to stitch at least 1 block a month. It's rather slow going, I must admit, but I'm determined to finish it.

M is for Mermaid

N is for Nest

O is for Owl

Ornaments

2009-12-20T13:00:00.000-08:00

Snowflake Ornament

I gave this snowflake ornament to my mother last year. She especially liked the shine of the beads and the metallics.

Small Octagon Snowflake by xstitchhappy
32 ct white linen (over 2)
DMC rayon, cotton, metallic floss
Beads

Since she liked it so much I decided to stitch a companion piece and she LOVED it! (Yes, I gave it to her a couple of weeks ago.)

Let It Snow by Olenka’s Stitches Designs
14ct light blue Aida
DMC cotton and metallic floss
Beads

I prefer working on linen but since I needed to get this stitched and delivered in a hurry, I had to work with fabric that I had. In this case, it was Aida 14 – the only blue fabric in my stash. I’m not crazy about Aida and I had to adapt stitches for this fabric. I also added beads & metallics (Mom loves glitz). HMMM – is that where I get that from?? Anyhow, I stitched seed beads across the top, dangled seed bead ‘icicles’ across the bottom, and knotted larger beads randomly in the fringe. I was going for an ‘icy’ look. Metallic snowflakes are scattered in the background.

I finished this as a hanging ornament. You can find this and other beautiful designs on Olenka’s blog. There you will see her beautiful “Let It Snow” stitched on linen and completed as a pinkeep.

And for my knitting friend . . .

2007 Santa by Prairie Schooler
14ct natural Aida
DMC cotton floss

I'll be away for awhile - back after the holidays.

Hope yours are WONDERFUL, meRrY and BriGHt!!

2009-12-14T10:06:00.000-08:00

I don’t seem to be a very good blogger. Of all of life’s 'things to do', blogging is the first thing to get relegated to the back seat to be done ‘whenever’ I can get around to it. I do apologize.

Thanksgiving was a wonderful time but with a note of sadness. My father passed away 3 years ago on Thanksgiving Day. He is in my thoughts constantly this time of year. (He loved my turkey sandwiches and I loved making them for him.)

On an up note - it was all you can eat at my house - and they did!

All You Can Eat by The Prairie Schooler (Book No. 97)

36ct Irish Linen Tea (over 2)

DMC cotton floss

Before I forget, the crockpot dressing turned out pretty tasty. I did, however, transfer it to a casserole dish and stick it in the oven to brown the top toward the end. Not sure if I’ll prepare it that way again. I missed piling all that stuffing into the turkey.

The leaves are just starting to turn here (go figure, it's winter now). Some gorgeous fall colors are rolled up into this little humbug .

Who's lookin' at ya'????

Hootzi Humbug by Just Nan
28ct golden sand cashel linen by Zweigart
Gentle Art Sampler Threads & DMC cotton floss
Beads

I’ve been busy stitching gifts.

Thanks for your wonderful comments!

Another Pumpkin

2009-11-23T06:38:00.000-08:00

The photo doesn't do this justice

Pumpkin Keeper by The Drawn Thread
36ct linen
DMC cotton floss, seed & leaf beads

I have this hanging as an ornament reminding me that I better start thinking TURKEY. This year I’m going to try something new and different. Dressing in a crockpot!

Autumn Inspiration

2009-11-18T06:01:00.001-08:00

Fall colors and specialty stitches

Cutwork borders and shiny beads

Beautiful shading

A masterpiece in miniature (about 6 ½" by 4 ½")

Miniature Autumn Sampler by TW Designworks (Teresa Wentzler)
28ct ivory Jobelin by Zweigart
DMC cotton floss, Gloriana Silk
Mill Hill Beads

It took me a year to finally sit down and stitch this and I’m not disappointed. But I’ve delayed the finishing because I want to do it justice and am just not sure what to do -frame it or hemstitch the borders. Maybe I’ll stitch the Miniature Winter Sampler and then decide. Hmmmmm, I’m thinkin’ . . .

Pumpkin Envy

2009-11-16T14:06:00.000-08:00

Well, I guess we know who owns this pumpkin!

Love this design! It's a free chart generously provided by With Thy Needle and Thread and found on Brenda's website here.

An alternative to a wooden frame is a fabric one. Here's how I do it - backing fabric, batting, and finished stitched design . . .

Batting was sandwiched between the orange fabric and the cross stitched design. The backing fabric was then pulled around to the front and stitched down to frame the piece. (Make certain the backing is cut larger than the stitched design so you can fold the edges over. I cut this one inch larger on all 4 sides.)

Indian Summer by With They Needle and Thread
18ct ivory evenweave
DMC cotton floss
Seed beads

The batting was used to create puffiness when quilting the three layers together - just like making a quilt. To create that puffiness I quilted around the bird and the pumpkin and inside the zigzag border to add depth. I also quilted inside the fabric border to help stabilize it.

Here’s a closer picture of the pumpkin . . .

It’s been a while since I’ve done any quilting. As you can see, the stitches on the back are not as neat as I would like but, hey, who’s going to see the back, right?? Right??

And I just couldn’t leave well enough alone so I had to add some beads to the ‘frame’ - not too glitzy, not too bright. In fact, they can’t even be seen from a distance. Hmmm, maybe I should take them off and replace them with buttons. I even thought about embroidering a green vine crawling up the orange border. Is more better? There’s only so much you can do to one piece!!! The hanger is cord I found in the scrapbook section of the craft store.

I can't wait to do Brenda's May Day Sampler and am already thinking of ways to finish it.

Who said bigger is better?

2009-11-13T06:20:00.000-08:00

Lately, it seems I’ve been working on little - no - tiny projects.

Halloween Bits by Erica Michaels
40ct silk gauze
DMC cotton floss, CC, WDW, GAST

Like the acorn fob (Needle Nut) this was stitched on silk gauze. I used that same mat to mount the gauze for stitching. And I was lucky enough to find an inexpensive shiny black frame to put the finished piece in.

From tiny to "can you believe how little this is"????

Another miniature project but stitched on 40ct linen instead of 40ct silk gauze.
Even though the thread count is the same, I found it easier stitching on the silk because the holes were larger for the needle and thread to slip through. The fabric linen fibers are thicker and I had to “hunt” for the holes. (I really do need to get stronger glasses!)

From this . . .

to this . . .

Almost 40 colors worked into this space. Beautiful shading. Do you see the face in the moon?

OOOO fierce looking cat!

(about 1 ½” x 1”)

Boo Pendant by Blackberry Lane Designs, LLC designed by Marie Driskill
40ct light sand linen (Zweigart)
DMC cotton floss

One more -

Just Nan

Spooky Witch Hat
Over The Top! 2009 Series

Finally Framed!

2009-11-12T07:04:00.000-08:00

Took a long time, but they’re finally framed:

Houses of Hawk Run Hollow by Carriage House Samplings

The framer & I had a lengthy discussion about this frame. I liked the orangey color but thought the frame was too narrow for this large piece and I wasn’t too crazy about the black beading.
I’m so glad I went with her suggestion because the black beading accents the piece perfectly!

Here's a close up -

With My Needle by The Goode Huswife

And a close-up -

This is a real splurge for me because I usually try to find ready made frames and do the labor myself. Houses was such a large piece I didn't think I could do it properly.

Squirrels' Favorite Nut

2009-11-11T05:39:00.000-08:00

Fall has fallen and so have a gazillion acorns in my yard.

Needle Nut by Erica Michaels Needleart Designs
30ct silk gauze
Simply Wool thread from The Gentle Art
Acorn charm

When asked what my favorite season is I always have a hard time answering because I love each of them for different reasons. I have noticed, however, that I seem to have more items in the browns, oranges, and golds of autumn.

I also love acorns and pine cones so I jumped at the chance to stitch this little acorn using the suggested wool threads and loved the warm feel of this slightly fuzzy fiber in my hand. The silk gauze (and acorn charm) was included with the chart along with complete mounting instructions on fabric allowing for the use of a hoop. I chose a mounting method I was more familiar with.

I purchased a ready made framing mat (you know, the kind you buy to put inside a frame to border a picture - cost about $1.50) to hold the gauze. I then taped the outer edges of the gauze to the mat making certain the gauze was square and taut.

This shows the stitched design on gauze mounted to the mat.

Here I’ve removed the tape from the mat (looks like I can use the mat again).

I then cut out around the stitched design, sewed the front & back together and added the charm and hanger.

Now I can use this as a tiny pincushion or scissor fob

both!

More Mini Samplers

2009-11-09T14:39:00.000-08:00

May, June, and July Mini Samplers. I know, I know. I’m w-a-a-a-a-y behind! Some things just can’t be helped since life does have a way of making demands. I’m frantically playing catch-up now that things have quieted somewhat.

We’re into Fall but here’s a glimpse of summer past.

MAY - yummy red ripe strawberries . . .

May Flowers by Periwinkle Promises
28ct antique white Glasgow linen
Soie d’Alger silk floss

JUNE - flying kites and ice cream cones . . .

Kites & Cones by Periwinkle Promises
28ct raw Cashel linen
Soie d’Alger silk floss

JULY . . . get ready for a picnic. Burgers, baskets, & watermelons and, yes, those are ants running around the border!

Picnic Feast by Periwinkle Promises
28ct antique white Glasgow linen
Soie d’Alger slk floss

Exchange Fun!!!

2009-07-05T05:32:00.000-07:00

As a member of Tiny Treasures Exchange I’ve had the delight of making and, especially, receiving small needle accessories. The talent and creativity of the exchange partners is amazing.

Floss Tag Received

Our latest exchange was a Floss Tag. Here is the tag that I received from Rochelle @ Blue Cornflower Stitches.

She chose designs from Cross Stitch Happy .

Rochelle stitched an absolutely beautiful dragonfly in blues and greens embellished with beads (oh, how I love beads!) The beads make the dragonfly sparkle just like a real one!

On the reverse is -
You wouldn’t believe this was her first attempt at a floss tag AND an octagonal shape. She did a marvelous job! She cleverly chose ribbon instead of an eyelet to attach the ring.

I'm so lucky to have such a wonderful "stitchin' friend" and am anxious to put the gold needles and pearl cotton that she sent to use in the near future.

Floss Tag Sent

Here is the floss tag that I sent to Pokua @ Crossed Yarns .

This was my first floss tag attempt and hope to do better with the eyelet attachment next time.

Take a look at Pakua's web site - her pictures are much better than mine.

I chose Flower Sampler 2008 from Rosewood Manor’s "Something Old Something New 10th Anniversary Book of Celebration" using 28 ct linen, stitched 1 over 1 with DMC cotton floss. I personalized the tag with the year, our initials, and TTE.

This shape and the addition of the eyelet was a challenge! I love trying new and different things, don't you?

Another Fish Story

2009-05-18T07:58:00.000-07:00

Life has been very demanding this month and my stitching time has been very limited so in keeping with the last entry here's another 'fish story' to share . . .

KOI POND from Cross StitchHappy. A free design available here.

I fell in love with this design the minute I saw it and knew I had to stitch it. I also had the perfect piece of fabric in my stash which had been haunting me for many years. When I began I had no idea that it was going to evolve into a stitcher's wallet but I wanted to use as much of the fabric as possible so the project g-r-e-w and g-r-e-w.

More about this particular piece of fabric. It was originally purchased with a specific design in mind but I didn't enjoy stitching on it so I ripped out what little I had started and put it aside. The fabric is not even (translation - uneven) which I didn't realize until all stitching was completed. The graphed design is square, however, the stitched design is not! Surprise!! It is longer than it is wide! (Lesson learned - beware of older fabrics at bottom of fabric stash that are unmarked and unlabeled.) I believe it is 22 count but for Koi Pond I stitched over 2 threads for 11 count. The DMC colors suggested were used with Kreinik metallics added for shimmer.

The wallet has a front and back cover with one inside page and is closed with a ribbon tie.

A scissor pocket is on the inside back cover, thread rings are on the inside front cover, felt needle pages are on the inside, and a separate scissor fob is included.

Here’s a picture of the page inside. I knew I wanted this extra page but had no idea how to attach it so I enclosed its edge within the front and back pages. (I tapered the bound edges of the inside page to reduce some bulk. ) Then I had the dilemma of what to do with this bulky edge so I added initials and the year. See what I mean by "evolved"?

The scissor pocket shows a repeat of the koi.

An extra piece of ribbon was added to gather thread dangling from the thread rings (hard to see in the photo).

Sizes are approximate: Closed: 3 ½” x 5”. This includes includes ½” on the edge for initials & year. Open: 9” x 3 ½”.

A lily pad was repeated on on the back and the water swirl was a perfect design for the scissor fob.

Here’s a closeup of the beads on the spine. I was thinking 'fish scales' when I added the beads.

I've had requests for a tutorial for this since it appeared on Cross Stitch Happy's site. I've tried to create one (after-the-fact is very difficult) but my attempts are very amateurish and unsuccessful, at least for publication. I did use the backstitch/whipstitch biscornu method for finishing. If I were to do this today I would stitch the front and back patterns, initials and year on one long piece of fabric. Since I really didn't know what I was doing everything is on a separate piece of fabric which made for a lot of extra and unnecessary work in sewing everything together.

If you decide to create something like this, please learn from my mistakes and it's a lot easier if you have a definite plan in mind before starting.

But sometimes the most fun is in the discovery.

Goldfish

2009-05-02T11:50:00.000-07:00

While visiting my sister recently, I took a picture of this little hanging that I made and gave to her about 6 years ago. She has a koi pond and I thought this would be a cute, if not unusual, gift for her. And, besides, she seems to really like my 'homemade' gifts. At least, that what she tells me to my face. (Maybe she just doesn't want to hurt my feelings.) Well, here goes. This was an experiment with wire, beads, yarn, and a non-frame finish.

"Goldfish" from Cats of the World in Cross Stitch by Jayne Netley Mayhew & Nicki Wheeler
18 count cream Aida (I think), DMC cotton floss, Kreinik blending filament

Here’s a closeup of the goldfish. I added Kreinik blending filament to the stitching for a bit of shine, some fuzzy 'seaweed' yarn, and various beads at the sides for even more shine and texture. And I didn't stop there. I quilted around the fish and dangled beads and shells from the bottom for even more texture and interest.

If you look closely you can see the quilted outline of the fish on the backing fabric (which is an entirely different story). This was my first attempt at embellishing with beads other than cross stitching them in. If I were to do this today, I would add lots more beads. Oh, yeah!! LOTS more! It was also my first (and last) attempt at twisting wire into different shapes. Not too smooth but I tried and, of course, I had to add the little charm to the hanging.

Because I love my sister!

Mini Sampler: April

2009-04-29T14:23:00.000-07:00

Another mini sampler has joined the bunch. Here's what I've done so far -

The group picture shows April in front. While doing these I've noticed something interesting happening. At first I was very stingy with the polyester stuffing and then became very generous. January is slim, February isn't quite as thin as January, March is rounded, and April is chubby. By the time I get to December, it'll be rotund! I'm going to have to go easy on the stuffing or they're going to split their seams!

Here's April, with tiny blue raindrops falling on umbrellas.

Spring Showers by Periwinkle Promises

28 count linen, silk floss

The top flower vine is scattered with spider web rosettes, a new stitch introduced this month, and the vine below it is done in Queen's stitch with French knot flowers.

Not related but a quick-to-stitch project - a free chart that I got with an order.

First Robin of Spring
designed by Elizabeth Foster

I think I like the red frame better.

Making Lemonade!

2009-04-27T12:51:00.000-07:00

I had such big plans -

wonderful, grandiose plans,

BIG, super glorious plans.

My creative hat was on.

Ideas were coming fast and furious.

I could hardly contain myself. And then . . .

and then something happened.

It went from this . . .

It’s Spring!” from Madame la F’ee (here)
25 ct evenweave DMC cotton floss, Kreinik blending filament, beads

to this . . .

and I almost cried.

This is what I salvaged. I just couldn’t toss it aside. I love the design, the flowers, the colors, and most of all I love the bees.

and the Moda fabric on the back.

Here’s another bee closeup -

I wanted that shiny, inky black color on the bees that only shiny, inky black beads can give so – I used - shiny, inky black seed beads on the bee bodies. I also wanted the wings to glitter so I used Kreinik blending filament.

I’ve learned to love my mistakes.

Or should I say - my creative misadventures!!

Petites Lettres Rouges

2009-04-26T13:15:00.000-07:00

Blackbird Designs has offered a free chart of a wonderful little red sampler to be stitched for a contest. I don't think I've ever stitched so fast so that I could complete it in time.

This was stitched in loving memory of my grandmother whose name is stitched into the sampler. Unfortunately, I don't know her age at the time this photo of her was taken.
I was raised miles away from her in another state, but the same warmth and beauty that surrounded my father as he grew up was felt the first time I entered her house. Multi-colored quilts, embroidered linens, and crochet-edged pillowcases adorned every room. I believe my love of needlework began the moment I stepped within these walls and saw these beautiful ‘labors of love’. While stitching Petites Lettres Rouges, I added the motif of the crown over the heart which symbolizes love – her love of needle and thread. This love of handwork now encompasses another generation since my daughter has found the great satisfaction of creating with her hands through knitting and quilting.

Petites Lettres Rouges by Blackbird Designs
32 count off-white linen

DMC cotton floss - 814, 815, 498

Gentle Art Sampler Threads - Onyx

I backed the sampler with the same linen and stitched "In Loving Memory", the year, and my name. The front and back were then sewn together using the backstitch/whipstitch method as for a biscornu and added a red floss hanger. Around the red border on the front I did a running stitch with white floss to create a raised effect on the edge as a 'self-frame' which you can see
here.

I plan to frame the photograph of my grandmother and display her photo and the sampler together. I might even mount the sampler onto linen and frame. I will then write memories I have of her and a brief history of this sampler and place this in a pocket attached to the back of the frame.

TIP TO SHARE: Storing Projects

2009-04-19T07:44:00.000-07:00

Before putting your stitching project away, instead of rolling or folding, try hanging it on a skirt or pant hanger that has clips on it. If indentation marks from the clips are a worry then fold a fabric scrap (use a neutral color and make certain it is colorfast) over the project edge to pad and cushion the project’s edge against dents. I try to clip the project as close to the end of the fabric as possible to avoid this.

I’ve had as many as ten stitched projects on one hanger. If the project is over-sized, then loosely fold the east-west fabric edges toward the center making certain the fold doesn't crease when clipping. If I put an unfinished project away and know I’m not going to get to it for a while, I’ll put the chart, fibers, and any embellishments in a plastic bag and clip it to the hanger, also. That way everything is together. Don’t cringe – but I’ve even put clear plastic bags over stitched pieces stored like this and have never had a problem (knock on wood). The bottom of the bag is left open so there is no moisture trapped. I'm sure there are 'experts' who would say this is a 'no-no' but I haven’t had any projects become discolored or damaged in any way. An old cotton pillowcase or muslin bag can be used if you prefer fabric to plastic.

WIP: Berlin Woolwork, Part 4

2009-04-19T07:32:00.000-07:00

Here's a picture of my progress so far including Parts 1 through 4.

Berlin Woolwork by Needle's Prayse

Parts 1 - 4, Motifs 1-42

As you can see - I've completed Part 4 and started a tiny bit of Part 5 (lower right).

Here's a closeup of motif 34.

Carrots are good for you!

2009-04-17T08:35:00.000-07:00

Curious?

Any idea as to what's inside?

Hmm, what could it be?

Okay, okay - I won't make you wait any longer . . .

"A Bunny Garden Needleroll" by Praiseworthy Stitches

DMC floss, 28 ct raw linen

A needleroll, a pincushion, and a scissor fob all small enough to fit into their carrot 'house'. TOO CUTE! Everything to complete the project was included - linen, fabric, floss, beads, felt, thread rings, charm, ribbon, even a flower-head pin! I love it when I don't have to go searching for all the separate items that go into a project like this. And then there are other times when I like being creative and adventurous and experimental and start putting things together and am amazingly surprised (or utterly shocked) as to what evolves! Oops, I'm getting sidetracked.

Here's a photo of the needleroll unrolled showing bunnies-large and small-in their vegetable garden filled with rows of lettuce and cauliflower and carrots. Do you see the little worms? There's a tiny one among the flowers and one crawling his way among the veggies.

Here's a closeup of the lower portion of the needleroll . . .

See the busy bees buzzing around the hive?

Here's what the 'working' side of the needleroll looks like:

This was such a delight to stitch. Thank you for letting me share it with you.

Bunnies

2009-04-09T14:21:00.000-07:00

Stitched but unfinished (must be a curse!) I can't make up my mind - picture or pillow? Guess that's why eight years later nothing has been done! I'm thinking pillow, yup, it's going to be a pillow. This is actually a small piece about 8" square and I love the lush 'tapestry' look.

"Tapestry Bunny" in Just Cross Stitch April 2001
14ct khaki(?) Aida, DMC floss

While searching for seasonal decorations I came across this little pillow stitched a long time ago (a very long time ago). And despite how very long ago that was I still like it; it hasn't lost its appeal. After stitching, I made into a little velvet pillow with eyelet trim. See, I CAN finish projects! (Oh, but that was so very, very long ago!)

“Springtime” Pulled-Thread by The Vermillion Stitchery CCPT (1982)
pale blue Congress cloth, DMC floss, unknown metallic

The bunny in the center is framed by a lace stitch and is surrounded by bands of petit point flowers and pulled stitches.

The stitches are pulled so tight you can see the pastel colored fabric lining underneath (that was the idea).

Another bunny . . .

It looks like there's something in the carrot.

Is there something in the carrot?

Hey, what's in the carrot?

I know there's something in that carrot.

There's got to be something in that carrot.

Okay, what's in the carrot?

Finished: Flea Market Souvenir

2009-04-08T15:05:00.000-07:00

This piece really intrigued me: 3 different designs stitched on 3 separate pieces of fabric, sewn together and then embellished with crazy quilt stitches. The result is one long piece with a ‘vintage’ feel.

Flea Market Souvenir by Blackbird Designs
30 ct LaCrosse Blend & 30 ct Kansas City Blend (2 separate cuts)
Weeks Dye Works, Gentle Arts

Here are some close-ups of the stitching embellishment sewn over the seams before framing.

The chart did not describe how to sew the pieces together. I ladder-stitched the fabrics together leaving a seam of ½ inch which was then reinforced with the crazy stitches and the border stitches. I was worried about tension on these seams when framing but all went well.

Here’s a picture of the wrong side showing the border stitches and the crazy stitching over one of the seams. Not very neat - I was worried more about reinforcing the seams.

I actually completed this in March but just finished the framing.

My Words (to live by)

2009-04-07T13:11:00.000-07:00

Here's a list of words or expressions I have been heard to mutter on occasion.

My Passion . . . I must say this at least once while stitching, maybe more . . .

“I Love Cross Stitch” from I Love Cross Stitch by Alma Lynne
pink hardanger, DMC floss, Kreinik

My Excuse . . . oh yeah! Can't have any of that idle neatness - it's just so, so un-healthy!

This is not a self-portrait. I don't look like that (my toes aren't that long) but I do have a pink hair bow (kidding!).

from More Quotable Croaks book two by Ann & Roger Steinbach
22 count hardanger, DMC floss

My Stitching Prayer . . . I used to say this a lot in the beginning but I've got the direction thing perfected, finally. Now I need protection from going over 3 when I should be going over 2! Bet that never happens to you . . .

from Heirloom Garden Border by Charles Ross (New Dawn Designs)
linen, DMC floss, metallic thread

My Philosophy . . . this has been a favorite of mine for years and it says so much! I try my best to turn negatives into positives. (Sometimes, though, it's really, really hard. But I try, really! Really and truly! I've made a lot of lemonade in my life!)

Unknown (I've searched and searched but can't find the chart - maybe I loaned it out)

My Motivator . . . I hear this a lot!!??

Big Girl Panties Dolly Momma by Janlynn
14 count Aida

More words later - on another day . . .

New Adventure: Ribbon Embroidery

2009-04-05T11:15:00.000-07:00

Here's my first attempt at ribbon embroidery, an embroidered baby pillow. I've had this kit for sooooo many years - thought it was about time I worked on it.

Bear & Bunny Patch (Bucilla silk ribbon kit #41287)
Cotton flannel, floss, silk ribbon

The bear and bunnies were appliqued to the pillow cover using a simple blanket stitch surrounded by a beautiful garden of silk ribbon flowers.

I love the tactile feel of silk, whether it's ribbon or fiber. It's slick and smooth like a sugar lollipop.

This project wasn't difficult at all. I would call it a beginner project in ribbon embroidery. The stitches used for the flowers were straight stitch, Japanese ribbon stitch, french knot and free form. The bunny and bear tails were ruched ribbon and the bows were looped.

For my next adventure, hmmmm, what will I try? Brazilian embroidery or more stump work? I have no idea!

Proof of Spring - at last

2009-04-04T14:46:00.000-07:00

From this . . .

to this . . .

and this . . .

Now doesn't that just put a smile on your face?????

Berlin Woolwork - Part 3

2009-04-04T07:16:00.000-07:00

I really did finish this in March but am late posting. I've even started on Part 4 so I'm on target with my goal of finishing one part per month - so far, so good!

Berlin Woolwork - Part 3

Darlene O'Steen (The Needle's Prayse)

Motif 23

Motif 29

Motif 30

Motif 31

This isn't a quick project, takes some concentration and I can't work on it for long periods but am really pleased with the results.

Am I looking for excuses to start something else? You bet - here's a peek . . . think Spring!

Biscornu - Received

2009-04-02T14:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Dance!! I received this BEAUTIFUL biscornu from Gaby as part of the Tiny Treasures Exchange. I LOVE IT!!! Gaby used Dinky Dyes to stitch “Spring Fever”. Don’t the colors just remind you of fresh blooming flowers on a beautiful sunny day? The yellow flower button in the center is perfect.

On the reverse she stitched our initials, the exchange name, and the year which makes this so very, very special.

Gaby included this postcard of a bear in a flower garden holding a bouquet. She also included a chart to be stitched on a linen band entitled “Sommer” including a sailboat and anchor. I love this Gaby!! Thank you so much!

Biscornu Sent

2009-04-02T13:56:00.000-07:00

As part of the Tiny Treasures Exchange here is the biscornu that I sent my exchange partner, Cathy.

I used the rabbit motif from Nature’s Beauty by Little House Needleworks, one of her favorite designers.

This side is English Cottage Sampler, a freebie from Teresa Wentzler. I used 28 count fabric, DMC floss & RG Wisper for the fuzzy bunny tails, various beads for embellishment and for the pins that I made to go along with it.

Finished at last

2009-03-19T15:56:00.000-07:00

I am so proud of myself! I love to stitch but when it comes to finishing (moan, groan) I can really put on the brakes and procrastinate. But I went from this (in August of last year, that’s right, 2000 and 8, more than 6 months ago) --

after pulling it out about every 2 months – looking at it – reading the directions - and putting it back – I finally did this. . . today

Bee’s Rule by Milady’s Needle
40 ct Park City Blend (R&R)
Crescent Colors floss

It really wasn’t difficult to finish (I just thought it would be). The directions were clear and easy, I followed them exactly, and the stitched piece fit perfectly into the Lucite ruler.

The back of the stitching and the ruler is lined with a piece of scrapbook paper and enclosed front and back by the plastic ruler. This patterned paper won out over 4 others but I can’t explain why.

Here’s a close-up of the back. It’s sort of glittery and sparkley.

You know, the more I look at it -----
Do you think?
Could it be?
Am I imaging things?
Do these look like little bees

with stingers????!!

I’m thinkin’ SPRING!!! Bee’s a buzzin’, flowers a’bloomin, bring it on! Tomorrow is officially the first day of Spring here.

(PSST!! One day I'll show you the project that took me 10 years to finish!)

Mini Sampler - March

2009-03-18T16:30:00.000-07:00

The March mini sampler from Periwinkle Promises has been finished - shamrocks, lucky horseshoes, a rainbow, and a pot of gold.

Mini Sampler - March

Pot of Gold by Praiseworthy Stitches

(28 ct raw Cashel linen & silk)

GOLD?

(I wish)

oooooooooh

I could buy more stuff to stitch!

Biscornus

2009-03-02T16:33:00.000-08:00

BISCORNU! BISCORNU!

Funny name, funny shape. So far I’ve made 4 of these quirky little biscuit-looking thingys and plan to make more because they are so much FUN! I love to watch them take their 8 corner-shape. The first one I stitched has a fall design on one side and a winter design on the other and a beautiful button in the middle pulling the two sides together.

Seasonal Biscornu Fall & Winter Face

collaborative between Giulia Punti Antichi & MTV Designs

32 ct cream linen, overdyed floss, beads, and buttons

The second biscornu uses 2 different fabric colors (can't tell by the photo) and, also, has different designs on front and back with a heart and a bead pulling the 2 together.

Just Nan Biscornu
When Barnabee Met Bella

30 ct linen, silks, beads, charms

The third is part of a set of the Cheetah Needlework Accessories free designs from Cross Stitch Happy.

Cheetah Biscornu front and back from Cross Stitch Happy .

36 count cream Irish linen, cotton floss, beads

And the fourth is a mini biscornu turned into a scissor fob.

Mini Biscornu 2 from Aurelle

I'll soon be stitching another biscornu because I'm a member of the Tiny Treasures Exchange and we are exchanging biscornus. If you haven't made one of these funny looking things, maybe this would be an exciting adventure for you. There are many good tutorials available with excellent photos to lead you step by step. I found advice here to help with the pesky corners.

And Even More Hearts . . .

2009-02-24T04:49:00.000-08:00

Just a few days left in February so here are some more hearts to share:

CROSS STITCH Hearts

These are from a band sampler. I think they are pretty in their simplicity.

FROGET-ME-NOT Heart

I found this not too long ago in my pile of 'stitched-but-unfinished' projects. Years ago it was stitched on 28 ct amber linen with DMC floss and Mill Hill beads with a little shank button on the bow. It's crazy quilt look and nostalgic feel was appealing to me. This could have been made into a pillow or even framed. Instead I tacked a narrow tatting-like lace around the edge, backed it with muslin and put a little pearl cotton hanger on the back.

I’ve toyed with the idea of turning this into a card and putting a message on the back like “Remember Me”, or “To” and “From” written in colored ink . I can even see this with a pocket on the back to hold special cards. It could even go on the front of a picture or scrapbook album. The pattern is Victorian Elegance “Forget Me Not” by Homespun Elegance No. 122.

COUNTRY Hearts

I’m partial to the watermelon heart; how about you?

LOVE BIRD Heart

And for all the love birds out there (I see that smile!) – two love birds surrounded by a heart!

I enjoyed sharing these hearts with you; I hope you liked seeing them.

Tip to Share: No More Dangle-Tangle!

2009-02-22T17:37:00.000-08:00

Have you ever worked on a project that involved a lot of thread changes (HAED, for instance) and you just let the threads dangle, hoping they wouldn’t get tangled or dirty? I discovered that a tiny plastic bag can keep these threads clean and separated. This bag came with a garment I purchased that had an extra button and thread in the bag. Several of these could be used at once without creating a weighty drag or bulkiness while stitching.

WIP - Berlin Woolwork

2009-02-22T17:06:00.000-08:00

Berlin Woolwork

Part 2 of 9 (Motifs 11-22)
Darlene O’Steen -The Needle’s Prayse

Motif 19

Motif 20

Motif 21

There are a total of 95 motifs in 9 parts in all and since that sounds so daunting I've decided to set a goal. Did you know there are 3 parts to effective goal setting? I didn't learn this until recently.

1. The goal must be realistic, obtainable: do-able. In other words I can't say I'll finish this project in 2 days because I can't humanly stitch that fast.

2. There must be a timeframe attached to the goal (mine is September of this year). Otherwise, I would take forever.

3. It must be measurable (I always have trouble with this one).

My Goal: I will stitch Parts 3 through 9 until the project is completed in September 2009. If I break it down in smaller increments it doesn’t sound so daunting – I will complete stitching Part 3 in March, Part 4 in April, and so on. Sorry for my rambling – I’m giving myself a pep talk – sort of a motivational kick in the pants. So many projects, so little time. . . . . . but I'm smiling!!!

Exercise or Adventure?

2009-02-20T09:17:00.000-08:00

I thought long and hard (30 seconds) about what to call this entry. At first I thought it should be called an exercise – a stretching exercise - because that’s what I did – I stretched and exercised my creative brain. But oh! no, no, no. Exercise conjures up visions of huffing and puffing, heaving and sweating, moaning and groaning, and words of “Do I have to?” And exercise is WORK!

So I decided ‘adventure’ was a much better word. So here goes: I went on an adventure recently.

For ages I have been fascinated by stumpwork but felt it would be too difficult, too expensive, and require a learning curve I was not willing to undertake. So the other day, I went outside my safe zone and exercised (oops! I mean challenged) my creative brain and attempted stumpwork. And am I glad I did! Some dimension and texture can be obtained by stitching alone but, WOW!!! by adding stumpwork, the fiber picture jumps out – 3D, in fact.

Here is my first attempt –

Honey Bee Skep by Liz Turner Diehl

Some of my favorite motifs are bees, butterflies, dragonflies, and ladybugs. Does that make me a bug lover?

What was your latest adventure?

Tip to Share: Smyrna Cross Stitch

2009-02-18T07:36:00.000-08:00

To make stitches look fuller or more rounded try a Smyrna cross stitch. This is a closeup of the stemmed cherries at the bottom of the Chocolate Covered Cherries.

I ‘plumped' these tiny cherries by adding a + on top of the x stitch to make them look fuller and more rounded. The photo is a bit fuzzy but I hope it shows the difference between the red cherries at the bottom of the stems and the green x at the top. By adding a horizontal and a vertical stitch on top of the diagonal stitches of the initial cross stitch a Smyrna cross stitch is formed! I use this stitch when ‘rounding’ out an eye, for example. The top stitches can also be done in a different color for subtle shading or bright contrast.

Mini Sampler - February

2009-02-17T04:59:00.000-08:00

Mini Sampler – February
Cupid’s Delight (silk & 28 count linen kit) from Periwinkle Promises

Lovebug Needlebook and Heart Bead Scissor Fob

2009-02-14T16:14:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when I find myself in a craft store – alone – with money in my pocket, no where else I have to be, and lots of time to browse. Fibers and threads, beads and gems, glitz and glitter lure me closer, closer, closer . . .

1. Heart-shaped bead. It called my name. I’m weak. I am. I admit it. When I saw this heart bead my mind raced with all kinds of things to make. And then . . .

2. And then I saw this little mirrored heart. Can you believe it? Yes, that really is a little mirror in a heart-shaped iron-on appliqué. I had no idea what I was going to do with it but I knew I just had to have it. And then . . .

3. And then I found an adorable chart of a ladybug .

Put them all together and this is what happened . . .

A Lovebug Needlebook and Scissor Fob for a young girl’s first sewing basket

Chart is Lovebug by Erynne Designs available here.
18 ct white Aida, pink flannel needle pages, DMC cotton floss, assorted beads

The heart appliqué went on the back. Just right for a little girl to watch her reflection as she makes faces into it.

The heart bead and a little ‘love’ charm make up the scissor fob.

To the top of the needlebook, I added this little doodad (sorry, I don’t know what it’s called but it’s part of a necklace closure). I thought it would be a clever parking place for the scissor fob when not in use, plus, it creates lots of dangle for a little girl to love.

Love and friendship to all!

1,2,3

2009-02-13T05:50:00.000-08:00

One, two, three . .

I w - o - n - d - e - r . . .

What can it be?

Put them all together and what do you get?

I WANT TO SEE!

Quilted Hearts

2009-02-12T14:57:00.000-08:00

The last 2 entries evoked memories of the warmth and comfort provided by quilts. So here goes. A sampling of hearts - quilted, pieced, or appliqued:

Pieced Heart

Quilted Heart

Appliqued Heart

The landscape of hills and valleys created by quilting through layers of fabrics makes a cozy ‘puffiness’ and a play of light and dark shadows dances across the material. The design on the back can be just as pretty as the front. See the heart design here – it was created by quilting around the heart on the front.

Mini Sampler - January

2009-02-12T12:33:00.000-08:00

Quick project. This is small about the size of a 3x5 index card. Instant gratification. I plan (we know what happens to plans, don't we?) on doing one a month until I have the whole calendar year. Only 11 more to go and I've already started on February's. Make that 10 1/2 to go. I'm on a roll now!

Winter Fun (silk & 28 count linen kit) from Periwinkle Promises

Little bit of cross stitch, mostly specialty stitches - sew the back on, stuff it, add tassels and it becomes a mini pillow. I think I'll had a little floss hanger to the back & hang it. Of course, it doesn't have to be made into a pillow - it could be the front of a needlebook or it could even be framed.

Snowman Scissor Fob

2009-02-12T12:21:00.000-08:00

Luv this little guy! Fat little snowman with bugle bead for his carrot nose and petite beads for coal buttons. I dangled clear teardrop-shaped beads at the bottom of this scissor fob hoping they looked like icicles. Let’s go make snowmen & throw snowballs & drink hot chocolate! Brrrr!

Snow(man) Keeper free chart from The Drawn Thread

Thank You!

2009-02-11T12:02:00.000-08:00

Thank you for welcoming me to blogland. Your wonderful comments have warmed my heart! I have so much to learn and am looking forward to the journey! I hope to visit each and every one of you in the very near future and am thrilled that you have found my site. Please come back soon.

Thank you, Sharon M. @ Cross Stitch Happy for your encouragment.

Because You Asked . . . Candy Box Stats

2009-02-11T11:55:00.000-08:00

The heart box that I used has sort of a velvety finish. I think it was a Hershey’s Pot of Gold ® box but can’t be certain. It measures on the outside about 9-1/4'” (east/west) x 9” (north/south) & on the inside 8-½” x 8”. I noticed the pattern calls for a 1-lb. box but a trip to the store shows that my box is smaller than that. The box I used looks more like a 9 or 14 oz box. My stitched design measures 7-5/8 x 7 ½ on 14/28 (I think) ct fabric. A larger box would give more of an unstitched “border” around the design which would look very nice.

Heart Scissor Case

2009-02-06T10:31:00.001-08:00

Three separate designs and I wasn’t quite sure what to do with them. I thought about turning each into a separate ornament and then it came to me. . . TA DA . . . I LOVE beads. Since the theme is love, and I love beads, I decided to make something embellished with lots and lots of beads on it. So this is what evolved - a scissor/needle case - to hold a special pair of scissors and beading needles. Well, the scissors aren’t really special, but they’re small and used just for beadwork.

The larger design (back of the case) is a perfect introduction to specialty stitches. Each tiny heart is created using a different stitch – satin stitch, fern stitch, sprats head, queen stitch, smyrna, and more. The how-to diagrams on the chart are excellent! If you’ve never tried specialty stitches then the “Love” design on the back of the case is a perfect ‘try-me’ piece! I encourage you to try this tiny sampler – it is FUN to do! If you don’t want to make a project, just pull out a piece of scrap fabric and experiment with the stitches – you won’t be bored. Find a favorite and you can stitch up a little ornament, pincushion, or scissor fob . . . or . . . or . . .well, you get the idea. GO FOR IT!

The two rectangular designs, “All You Need is Love” (on the back) and “JeTaime” (the flap) are freebies from The Drawn Thread found here. The heart design is the February 2009 pinkeep design from Les Grilles de Maryse. Silk threads (leftover from a previous project), 28 ct pink Jubilee, and beads were used. Green cotton flannel lines the case and a plastic bead rope surrounds the back of the case. The heart design was stitched 1 over 1.

Work in Progress

2009-02-06T10:24:00.000-08:00

Berlin Woolwork by Darlene O’Steen of The Needle’s Prayse.

This is part 1 – COMPLETED! I give myself one “atta boy”. Only 8 more parts to go! Any bets on when I’ll finish all 9 parts? 2009? 2010? In my lifetime? I better get movin’!

Another FANCY HEART

2009-02-05T07:11:00.000-08:00

This is Watercolor Heart from Shepherd’s Bush. A beautiful hand-painted mat was included but is not shown here. Instead I've chosen to display it in a pretty pink fabric frame with vintage ecru lace surrounding the opening. A tiny heart charm and beads adorn this small heart.

Chocolate Covered Cherries

2009-02-03T11:27:00.000-08:00

When I saw this chart I knew I had to stitch it! Chocolate covered cherries are one of my favorites! I finished it as an ornament. A hanging loop is formed if the pin at top is removed. Stick more pins in it and it becomes a pinkeep.

Chocolate Covered Cherries

free design by Casey Buonaugurio

available here.

I auditioned all sorts of fabrics for the back. You wouldn’t think it would be so difficult to find a suitable backing fabric but nothing seemed to work. So, to perk up the solid red faux silk backing that was finally chosen, I raided the button jar looking for a ‘cherry’ button to put on the back. Out of luck again so I took a plain button and stitched some cherries into the holes of a 4-hole button.

They look like cherries don’t they? Kinda . . . sorta . . . maybe?

Fancy Hearts

2009-01-30T14:30:00.000-08:00

Since February is heart month, I decided to round up all the hearts I could find so here goes . . . first up - FANCY HEARTS . . .

Antique Sampler Heart

Pulled Work Heart

Hardanger Heart

Blackwork Heart

Put them all together . . .

and you get Winter Hearts from Shepherd's Bush. Each heart was a joy (and a challenge) to make and could stand alone as a small ornament. Change the colors to suite the seasons, holidays, or just your favorite colors. There’s a little bit of everything here: cross stitch, specialty stitches, pulled work, hardanger, needleweaving.

Surprise!

2009-01-30T13:51:00.000-08:00

Calorie-free cholocates!

I had so much fun stitching this - metallics, and beads, and specialty stitches, oh my! Each candy was its own little project stitched one after the other until there was a whole box full of little treats!

Yummy!!! These look good enough to eat – I think I’ll have that one! Which one would you pick?

2009-01-30T13:36:00.000-08:00

The chart for this is in the February 1995 Cross Stitch & Country Craft Magazine. I have no idea if it is still available & I can’t remember when I stitched it but I do remember it was one of the ‘funnest” projects I have ever done. I smile every time I open the box.

Here's a Peek

2009-01-29T11:04:00.000-08:00

Any ideas?

Heart Box

2009-01-29T10:56:00.000-08:00

Now for some fun stuff . What could possibly be in this Valentine box?????

Sewing Heart

2009-01-29T10:40:00.000-08:00

A Mon Ami Pierre freebie available on their site. They show it on a heart-shaped thread keeper but it works this way, too. I can imagine this stitching lady on a heart-shaped box, as an ornament, a tuffet – all sorts of ideas. I added a large shell circle (found in the beading section at the craft store) to use as a thread ring. The twisted cording was an after-thought and makes the scissor keeper look more finished. I can even hang it because of the loop.

I was originally going to fold the finished heart in half and snap it shut. The snap would do double duty - to close the scissor keeper and to hold the scissors in place. Instead I added the pocket and used a bead-shell flower-bead contraption to keep the scissors in place.

Tiny Biscornu

2009-01-28T16:03:00.000-08:00

I've stitched biscornus before but never one so tiny as this. It's so tiny it can be used as a scissor fob. The graph is a freebie and can be found here at Aurelles site. It's called Mini Biscornu 2.

Another recent finish

2009-01-27T17:58:00.000-08:00

Here’s another recent finish - With My Needle by The Goode Huswife. 40 ct Muffin linen and DMC cotton floss were used. I really like the rustic, old, dirty - a better word - antique look of the fabric.

First Project of 2009

2009-01-27T17:40:00.000-08:00

On a more cheerful note . . .

This was a special request. Are you familiar with the “Desiderata”? It begins “Go placidly . . .” and ends with “Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.” I believe it was written sometime in the 1920s. I found a couple of cross stitch graphs but chose to stitch this one designed by Lauren Fraser Turner of Lifetime Samplers in Great Britain. I especially liked her borders which reminded me of the illuminated manuscripts from the Middle Ages which sparkle with glistening golds & silvers.

Last Project of 2008

2009-01-27T17:27:00.000-08:00

I thought this project (Houses of Hawk Run Hollow by Carriage House Samplings) would never end. It seems like I stitched on it forever and ever and ever. Actually it took 4 months of intermittent stitching. I cringe when I think of the hours that went into this – but it is truly impressive! I used the recommended fabric & DMC cotton floss.