improving drawing and designing skills For a long time I've wanted to improve my drawing skills so that I can create my own embroidery designs. Last year, one of our guild members held a class on blind contour drawings, specifically portraits. I was immediately drawn to this project as blind contour drawing is a great…
It's time to celebrate! After two years and many, many hours planning and stitching, my journal is finished. I am so happy with it! As I flip through the pages I fondly recall the beginnings of each page. I really had no idea that my journal would become the beautiful piece that it is. I…
"Waiting for Rain" Why a squirrel?? Because they are cute and quirky... and they have fuzzzy tails! I've always been a fan of forest creatures, especially squirrels. We are kindred spirits - especially when it comes to embroidery! I'm always looking out for a new technique, project, design to try out! This year, I was…
And here they are... in no particular order (with the exception of the first and last pages) ... all of the spreads for the journal. It's quite a collection and a wonderful compilation of the embroideries that are in this journal. Next steps... finish stitching the front cover (blackwork) finish the two remaining layouts (4…
Over the past few weeks much stitching has been done while sipping the morning java - delicious coffee and a bright, sunny situation have made my mornings most enjoyable... and productive! I've managed to finish the layouts and edging on almost all of the pages for the journal! A big finish is coming soon -…
My 2021 Temperature Stitch and Legend - the first two pages! The book is coming together - the first two pages are ready to be put together. One of my many projects from 2022, this temperature stitch was destined to become part of my first journal. More on the temperature stitch can be found by…
This monogram project originated as a local guild summer challenge (2021). I’ve been inspired by Charles Henry and his partner Elin. They are in France and make some of the most beautiful architectural embroidery designs. Eventually I want to embroider one of their pieces but I’m having trouble deciding which one. Instead I’ve decided to…
On 2021 Despite all of the weird things happening in the world around us, 2021 was a pretty good year. There is so much to be thankful for - being well, spending time with family, gardening, stitching, enjoying the outdoors... I spent a lot of time at home and it was nice to be able…
Embroidery is not for those who like instant gratification! Some projects take just a darn long time to finish. This piece is the perfect example - it sat for 4 years in my stash because I didn't know what crewelwork even was (other than I really liked the style). THEN, after I figured it out…
Thank goodness for cold weather (I never thought I’d say it out loud tho)! With it being so gosh darn cold outside, I’ve had plenty of time to stitch! There’s been a whirl wind of activity since it got cold outside - I've worked hard finishing off some older projects and kitting up and starting…
The Needlesmith 