tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157612757883528502024-03-13T21:18:33.313-04:00Needlepoint Tips and TechniquesMichele Herron shares needlepoint tips and techniques from her current needlepoint projects.Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.comBlogger124125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-7609338452179365882013-03-02T19:52:00.000-05:002013-03-02T20:04:55.315-05:00New beading tool from Elizabeth Turner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwWyQBGC4PSaU0XyA_03h0QbWVBijRnhTv2cGNJqGAs1TH0IKqhTL100zODFZa7oORh6gyQjG3o_yqyRT0Tx-CwF0fgYD2lfwi9YVVuDWjuNkt0i6BBA8HTcTEauTWij83J1S9NmvkJdQ/s1600/beads1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwWyQBGC4PSaU0XyA_03h0QbWVBijRnhTv2cGNJqGAs1TH0IKqhTL100zODFZa7oORh6gyQjG3o_yqyRT0Tx-CwF0fgYD2lfwi9YVVuDWjuNkt0i6BBA8HTcTEauTWij83J1S9NmvkJdQ/s320/beads1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Love to bead, but hate having to wrangle with the slippery little escape
artists? I know I vacuum loads of beads and sequins from my sprawling
workspace (I get the 1/2 of the couch that our dog Morgan doesn't
claim).<br />
<br />
ET has a new Needle Buddy--a small box with a (just right) tacky
surface inside. The box attaches to your canvas with a magnet, so it
your beads are right where you need them. I slipped one in my purse to
use tonight--can't wait!Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-16301365643957221072013-02-03T10:23:00.000-05:002013-02-04T20:50:56.371-05:00Susan Portra's Vintage Bird Cage class<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn-_pqkvQtAvBbPsmf5gyiVWfVGEJ_mmR8-htolEXsvZdwjs1ftQ9tavU0yl6afDyek8377okONK-QUvYus5E6NpUACYLJc7Yu2wg3fQyC8TcJBoCKb_0rsGs1oAcsx8dv6aaV9PPwVds/s1600/birdcage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn-_pqkvQtAvBbPsmf5gyiVWfVGEJ_mmR8-htolEXsvZdwjs1ftQ9tavU0yl6afDyek8377okONK-QUvYus5E6NpUACYLJc7Yu2wg3fQyC8TcJBoCKb_0rsGs1oAcsx8dv6aaV9PPwVds/s320/birdcage.jpg" width="207" /></a></div>
I started my day with Susan Portra's class "The Vintage Bird Cage",
canvas by DJ Designs. Susan was her usual ebullient self, always good
for non-morning people like me. <br />
<br />
After many days spent sorting,
donating and packing up over 25 years' worth of "stuff" (we sold our
house on Lake Michigan), I realized, yet again, that I have a thing for
both boxes and birds. I have quite a collection of both and this
canvas had to be mine. It is a Limoges-style hinged box with birds in a
vintage cage. It's going to be a beauty.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNPeiRlKmgW8Waa3cwr3c8HeeKLv6nwfYE-vgMIGY3rY7EV0Y8eSsF-_qpYAf8yUXB0CHGMsi86GaduR9idzSJOmK4wAVRZh4jW-oFgL9ZPE5zIJP6N2ycx73q9ZE7nubZoEOsTte-280/s1600/birdcage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNPeiRlKmgW8Waa3cwr3c8HeeKLv6nwfYE-vgMIGY3rY7EV0Y8eSsF-_qpYAf8yUXB0CHGMsi86GaduR9idzSJOmK4wAVRZh4jW-oFgL9ZPE5zIJP6N2ycx73q9ZE7nubZoEOsTte-280/s200/birdcage3.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
A few of my favorite things: learning to stitch a Pinched
Cross...seeing the wonderful effect of a woven plait stitch done in two
close shades of the same color...getting a PROS laying tool as part of
the kit.,.round Rhodes surrounded by beads to make medallions...and best
of all, Susan shared some of her students' amazing work.<br />
<br />
Brava!Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-58463170094221366792013-02-01T16:32:00.001-05:002013-02-01T16:42:24.279-05:00More fun with Sandy Arthur<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;">
My second winter market class was taught by Sandy Arthur and sponsored by Sundance Designs and others. </div>
<br />
<br />
The
coolest technique used on the Heart canvas was a pulled thread stitch.
We've all seen the section on pulled threads at the back of the
needlepoint "Bible" written by Jo Ippolito Christensen, but I for one, have never used any of the stitches. I'm
not sure where I will use that technique again, but I am delighted to
have put my toe into the M.N.A. (Master of Needlepoint Art) section of
Jo's book. (One of the best things about classes is being exposed to
new things and opening your mind to new possibilities. Duh.)<br />
<br />
More of my favorite things...ironed Sparkles with added bling
provided by Sundance beads and sequins; many wonderful border stitches,
ruching and ruffled River Silks. I see this canvas as a stand-up with
feet for Valentine's glamor.<br />
<br />
Sandy used Painter's Thread Ribbon Floss Cotton and Painter's Thread
Pearl Cotton size 12 in the kit. Good news about Painter's
Thread--Threadnuts is distributing the entire diverse line of Painter's
Threads and they are all in stock. Hooray!<br />
<br />
Next up--Susan Portra's "Vintage Bird Cage" hinged box by DJ Designs. Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-88491618763109160032013-01-31T18:39:00.000-05:002013-01-31T19:00:54.768-05:00My first class at winter market<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://fbcdn-profile-a.akamaihd.net/hprofile-ak-snc7/c118.58.725.725/s200x200/302843_438141046250743_341418345_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Sandra Arthur" border="0" class="profilePic img" height="200" id="u_0_n" src="https://fbcdn-profile-a.akamaihd.net/hprofile-ak-snc7/c118.58.725.725/s200x200/302843_438141046250743_341418345_n.jpg" title="" width="200" /></a>I signed up for "The Sweetest Tree" because I really wanted the chance
to take a class from Sandy Arthur (and because I love any class that
Sundance sponsors). Sandy is an ANG certified Senior Master Teacher and
the author of the wonderful series of needlepoint books "Shapes of
Needlepoint". </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
You have to love a teacher who starts a class by saying "If you
don't enjoy this class, it's your fault." And then the fun began....<br />
<br />
My
new favorite thing is stitching the stem stitch with beads. Following a
stitch guide from Melissa Shirley, I have successfully used beads in
the Jessica stitch. Now, armed with the stem and Jessica stitches using
beads, I am going to look at my many books ad search for other ways to
add beads to a stitch.<br />
<br />
Other favorite things I learned in class today:<br />
1) Those small twisted beading needles make excellent needle threaders.<br />
2) A pincushion under the canvas holds your needle while you re-thread it for the drizzle stitch.<br />
3) Start the first row of your darning stitch in the center of the
canvas, with enough thread coming out toward the two sides to stitch the
row completely. Stitch the pattern toward the left edge first. Then
go back to the center and take the right length of the thread and stitch
the right side of the pattern. This can alleviate the need for many
swear words. (Clear as mud? I'll be demonstrating in my shop for our
Friday stitch-in.)<br />
<br />
My next class is also with Sandy--the canvas is a Sundance heart
canvas and she promises to use beads, sequins, ribbons and Sparkles, oh
my!Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-67477306837089066162012-12-12T17:05:00.000-05:002013-01-01T11:37:41.129-05:00Christmas Ornaments from Alice Peterson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_aoYssyDLrGgY0X35dF_UIQ8M0KeVngkZAkm4E_E4lnfjOJCP0GG91IlN7Rv4UJJ3HkcNwUAwK1a_pRMdjdCnYXmACTpMIfZVkqqi6lr_FvfUcmzr1wwwkdsYWSp4aI5V8qMlx8CWZ8g/s1600/AP2006f.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_aoYssyDLrGgY0X35dF_UIQ8M0KeVngkZAkm4E_E4lnfjOJCP0GG91IlN7Rv4UJJ3HkcNwUAwK1a_pRMdjdCnYXmACTpMIfZVkqqi6lr_FvfUcmzr1wwwkdsYWSp4aI5V8qMlx8CWZ8g/s320/AP2006f.JPG" width="250" /></a></div>
Here you can see the different tricks I tried to outline the decorations on this ornament.<br />
<br />
The
V-shaped design shows how a couched string of beads looks. I liked it,
but chasing all those beads around while I tried to string them and
then couch them was irritating, to say the least.<br />
<br />
The right top of the design below the V-shape shows the same gold beads tent-stitched. They barely show up, so they were nixed.<br />
<br />
At
the top, I couched Kreinik Hot Wire on the anchor-shaped design. This
is what I ultimately used for the outlines on the entire ornament.
After a lot of practice, it wasn't even difficult!<br />
<br />
Working on the stitch guide now - more to come ... Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-51198628560336681162012-12-11T17:54:00.000-05:002012-12-11T17:55:07.561-05:00"Bling, Glitz & Glamour for Needlepoint"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn-ssrFjv56pPJazmJ7R2rT2GHp5zSn9wY8IMEvoBXDoLafoWML2-4gL9XPaeIJVK6LtGxquXNr9kzo7E9lbVDEe6AbsieJ7Ae8gol_s5BaHBhowh4YXpgKht6oBaC0DBtOuPoDbCk_f8/s1600/Bling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn-ssrFjv56pPJazmJ7R2rT2GHp5zSn9wY8IMEvoBXDoLafoWML2-4gL9XPaeIJVK6LtGxquXNr9kzo7E9lbVDEe6AbsieJ7Ae8gol_s5BaHBhowh4YXpgKht6oBaC0DBtOuPoDbCk_f8/s320/Bling.jpg" width="245" /></a></div>
I've been threatening for years to teach a class devoted to beading and embellishment.<br />
<br />
I
recently took the time to read my autographed copy of June McKnight's
book about needlepoint bling. And guess what? June has already written
the class for me.<br />
<br />
The book has loads of color photos and diagrams, cool stitches that incorporate beads, sequins, embellishments, rhinestones
and more. I learned more than a couple of new things, always good. I
definitely recommend this for stitchers who have or want to go beyond
just needlepoint.<br />
<br />
We have a few of these <a href="http://www.bristlythistle.com/jmbling.html" target="_blank">in stock</a> now!Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-36961746366408099962012-10-24T17:10:00.000-04:002012-10-24T17:10:34.859-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWgnEaQXY9VTF5vf7WsGRqPdNRwsBSY6BMnWSTOO1A1pF5KGmgYEupQVQHd2XHI2vV4Y8IVqT_IndlQH16MURw34li-fUVkuRRDcOejSM4WK5cleASdY6DN96p_jWorvFnpi3N-VQ4kK8/s1600/Harrison1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWgnEaQXY9VTF5vf7WsGRqPdNRwsBSY6BMnWSTOO1A1pF5KGmgYEupQVQHd2XHI2vV4Y8IVqT_IndlQH16MURw34li-fUVkuRRDcOejSM4WK5cleASdY6DN96p_jWorvFnpi3N-VQ4kK8/s320/Harrison1.JPG" width="183" /></a></div>
Not all stockings should be huge and make you cry "uncle" repeatedly. I
love Susan Roberts' stockings--they are just the right size to match
more "vintage" stockings and her sense of perspective and whimsy make
them great fun...plus, her Santas always have a happy, not scary, face. <br />
<br />I kept the stitches pretty basic for Harrison's stocking; I had
visions of years of running to the mantle to snatch it down, turning it
upside down and shaking it to make the goodies fall out. Since this is
Harrison's first Christmas, I wanted to make it durable enough to last
until he is an adult...and perhaps still performing the same excited
ritual. (You are only young once, but you can be immature forever.)<br />
<br />My favorite things: <br /><br />I used Silk & Ivory Stardust in
white for the cuff in a vertical stitch. By just unwinding the thread a
little as I went along, I got great coverage and I loved the sparkly
effect.<br />
<br />The basketball is stitched with perle cotton and the Dotted stitch
from "the Bible". This gives a great nubby texture, just like an actual
basketball.<br /><br />I loved using Frosty Rays for the garland with a simple satin stitch.<br />
<br />And that is stocking number 17--two more are on the (hopefully) expanding list.Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-87671950410885326632012-10-23T14:51:00.000-04:002012-10-23T14:51:12.507-04:00More Halloween!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEn5P0DxqHVN93vtKD3Xizlzrj6s8GY6ua2tU8nXPz1dV7rFIqIhI3Kuex_Q9MZ1PUtQL3s5g57MUWpGQyFTzkxDFjiFdFfFNkXZTNQFazhljzrGBJk_nmlJQn077Bu50cLNkHXE7QnWc/s1600/100_6663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEn5P0DxqHVN93vtKD3Xizlzrj6s8GY6ua2tU8nXPz1dV7rFIqIhI3Kuex_Q9MZ1PUtQL3s5g57MUWpGQyFTzkxDFjiFdFfFNkXZTNQFazhljzrGBJk_nmlJQn077Bu50cLNkHXE7QnWc/s400/100_6663.JPG" width="360" /></a></div>
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You have probably seen a ship in a bottle, but what about a skull in a bottle? This is really spooky!Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-25523672904863457032012-10-15T13:49:00.000-04:002012-10-15T13:49:28.861-04:00A cool stretcher bar tool<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjks17UAy-WdexAfDbR9gHK8eqNzwBm9ch78H_4Hd7cx_eL1fFNIc8W3O7IHHDWeSynwWjpV_a3W0dlPPqGGLBB-wQNEHuw-nQ2IqWJbbvZcKVX02LeXbDJnMdoeJ7gtgNqxNaee4J3tg0/s1600/100_6660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjks17UAy-WdexAfDbR9gHK8eqNzwBm9ch78H_4Hd7cx_eL1fFNIc8W3O7IHHDWeSynwWjpV_a3W0dlPPqGGLBB-wQNEHuw-nQ2IqWJbbvZcKVX02LeXbDJnMdoeJ7gtgNqxNaee4J3tg0/s320/100_6660.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVB0998fu2T8noMf8h7yWaRT1JnCGqXhSR48KJa4hMH2K9Rg1K9GGm3pnScc2oXTA26Lyt9ahWlJcy5jYCRLYR93TmfUnnPglc3pLoGq40WyAUpSKwqnUqAuyaDiwbGCZ9zfyndhVnHEc/s1600/100_6659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVB0998fu2T8noMf8h7yWaRT1JnCGqXhSR48KJa4hMH2K9Rg1K9GGm3pnScc2oXTA26Lyt9ahWlJcy5jYCRLYR93TmfUnnPglc3pLoGq40WyAUpSKwqnUqAuyaDiwbGCZ9zfyndhVnHEc/s320/100_6659.JPG" width="140" /></a>I recently went out of town and left Chris and the dogs in charge of the
Bristly Thistle. On Chris' to do list was putting together 20 sets of
stretcher bars, with my special admonition that they be square. Chris'
solution (at around $5) was a T square from the LHS (local hardware
store). You can even use it to see if your stretcher bars are level!Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-86382426908196396292012-09-16T17:37:00.000-04:002012-09-16T17:37:09.589-04:00Ringmaster by Kirk & Hamilton<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP6ldawb43HCOaxJ8ZvASmLXwuIsa7y4UKILSyqflbKz1xEQp8B3gVHDgcmJDJoPICTrIl5pwUv1uD8bwwWlSL-gs4UqKRwwDtlF0r49q95_DcTp8LMJxmWoE1XZ-zWdITWDUytD6qhRU/s1600/kh311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP6ldawb43HCOaxJ8ZvASmLXwuIsa7y4UKILSyqflbKz1xEQp8B3gVHDgcmJDJoPICTrIl5pwUv1uD8bwwWlSL-gs4UqKRwwDtlF0r49q95_DcTp8LMJxmWoE1XZ-zWdITWDUytD6qhRU/s400/kh311.JPG" width="273" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Our oldest daughter chose this Kirk & Hamilton ornament for her 2012 selection. She asked to have it framed to hang in her home office. <i>Hmmm.<br />
<br />
</i>My favorite thing: beading the ring with cube shaped Japanese seed beads.</span>Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-66759175943358740732012-08-15T07:42:00.000-04:002012-08-15T07:42:40.434-04:00Christmas snail<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXLXor8wTU6qP7iZTUzrtRoMZ0tt3tk1Bd5AGETTBInckwAtOn20b_Vz7vFNBkC63Spgu_CJ1lY9usf5oZ9l38HwH4qxHfDxzUCZvIC4Q1rG6wNDkrroOmwWJi1CWBP7ea535ZYWZ-3bY/s1600/kh351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXLXor8wTU6qP7iZTUzrtRoMZ0tt3tk1Bd5AGETTBInckwAtOn20b_Vz7vFNBkC63Spgu_CJ1lY9usf5oZ9l38HwH4qxHfDxzUCZvIC4Q1rG6wNDkrroOmwWJi1CWBP7ea535ZYWZ-3bY/s320/kh351.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This snail from Kirk & Hamilton was really fun to stitch. My favorite things: Ribbon Floss satin stitched over a perle cotton chain stitch for the raised brown stripes and the T-stitch worked in size 8 Kreinik in Moonstone. (Sharon G once said that silver thread in an open stitch seems to age better than other colors in open stitches.)<br />
<br />
After speaking to a couple of my finishers, I have started my annual panic. Finishers say they are getting buried early--one has even moved their finishing deadline for Christmas back by 2 weeks. Either we are all getting smarter and finishing earlier (unlikely, I think) or we are stitching like mad!<br />
<br />
So, don't be a snail, get stitching!Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-29135459634768466592012-07-15T17:59:00.001-04:002012-07-15T19:01:17.349-04:00The Happy Witch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBvUbbJJHmZ8_OgDROWneM99tO_1i0az-tFLulKrRqd9-gEk6esKmVFKMLkfhCpaUnyViCnA_d8rUYzre_8Yya0zX-tHDwEXj_Hkr1PG9rovGe3UAr7ceth4Tu2MQ0ixQTHc8I8aCP8Tc/s1600/101_1786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBvUbbJJHmZ8_OgDROWneM99tO_1i0az-tFLulKrRqd9-gEk6esKmVFKMLkfhCpaUnyViCnA_d8rUYzre_8Yya0zX-tHDwEXj_Hkr1PG9rovGe3UAr7ceth4Tu2MQ0ixQTHc8I8aCP8Tc/s320/101_1786.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This is the second panel of 5 from Julie Mar & Friends, with the stitch guide by Patricia Dee.<br />
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Sometimes I am a stickler for mirror image stitches, i.e., one side has the stitch slanting in one direction, the opposite side slants in the opposite direction. I loved Pat's choice of the Souffle stitch for the Happy Witch's cloak, but I wanted the left side to mirror the right.<br />
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Usually, you just need to turn a stitch diagram a 1/4 turn to get the mirror image. You can see that this doesn't work with this stitch. So here is Reverse Souffle, "for your alleged pleasantry" as one of my beloved high school English teacher used to say. (She would introduce herself at the beginning of the year--"My name is Mrs. Null, it rhymes with dull." She was <i>anything </i>but dull.)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz8vhhqA790yazJz5FrbjCnlPjRCWCEhgc5d_GbIytaXoSKFFPlDPghSnP6mrKEWXECr52yGNf4vu04YTE5nO0BotUcYW5tuNy0HGLlM352URewC5WH5xxTaHZJGL-e5eYooXQ8eWel8c/s1600/Souffle2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz8vhhqA790yazJz5FrbjCnlPjRCWCEhgc5d_GbIytaXoSKFFPlDPghSnP6mrKEWXECr52yGNf4vu04YTE5nO0BotUcYW5tuNy0HGLlM352URewC5WH5xxTaHZJGL-e5eYooXQ8eWel8c/s320/Souffle2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNU44FKsf5oER7adnMP5Q7smon5rsByD3Q7XIsPcl7UbuCPeuc1NhvjSZp56P74Nmm3AfgUDalpEAlmlyh-G3Y0Vsad81K4uny71Tc0tBN-luVut-4L5NSySMJpTTLUj9PEdNJiIds_VA/s1600/Souffle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNU44FKsf5oER7adnMP5Q7smon5rsByD3Q7XIsPcl7UbuCPeuc1NhvjSZp56P74Nmm3AfgUDalpEAlmlyh-G3Y0Vsad81K4uny71Tc0tBN-luVut-4L5NSySMJpTTLUj9PEdNJiIds_VA/s320/Souffle.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-11895198769272371042012-07-08T16:00:00.001-04:002012-07-08T16:10:20.068-04:00Count Dracula by Julie Mar<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJi6CIPm1eWWOWHZth9fSpAnIRAG9D_1THmVC4UJlNU6ib-IWigzktSpMJ1GD1ddyx2S2XFtNrgX6-BWEFuKX5ThVBwc-PgLMU4BaK9xhZaRg6WIqAOxZS169Li5mbQqNzq-zHcZ3ADXw/s1600/101_1783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJi6CIPm1eWWOWHZth9fSpAnIRAG9D_1THmVC4UJlNU6ib-IWigzktSpMJ1GD1ddyx2S2XFtNrgX6-BWEFuKX5ThVBwc-PgLMU4BaK9xhZaRg6WIqAOxZS169Li5mbQqNzq-zHcZ3ADXw/s320/101_1783.JPG" width="317" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">How handsome is this guy? Widow's peak, bedroom eyes, cleft chin, and there's something about that smile....<br />
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This is one of 5 canvases in a series by Patricia Dee of Julie Mar Designs. You can choose individual characters or, as I did, buy all 5 with the stitch guide and the ceramic painted knob. They make up into a very cool lidded box for Halloween.<br />
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I tweaked the guide a bit to make it my own...and these are a few of my favorite things. I found a great Mandarin floss color for his pasty face; the candle flame is a glowing Fyre Werks; the candle is stitched with a Renaissance thread and the dripping wax is made of French knots using an over-dyed Kreinik.<br />
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Next up--the Happy Witch.</div>Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-33003655175934518122012-05-27T13:10:00.000-04:002012-06-08T08:51:57.818-04:00Thanksgiving March fini<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdNcyg7ikf9QMWf_Hh5IFSKta2T69QKgOOQB21-S4xGiadJ3tI8yUUZcFeJDMYTU70iMsLg7vmT7ln2Zcw0Untd1JNEFud1o4d5nDvt-SKuCGRgmq89XJld0feJdwcVVS6t4HmLkA4ME0/s1600/MAY26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdNcyg7ikf9QMWf_Hh5IFSKta2T69QKgOOQB21-S4xGiadJ3tI8yUUZcFeJDMYTU70iMsLg7vmT7ln2Zcw0Untd1JNEFud1o4d5nDvt-SKuCGRgmq89XJld0feJdwcVVS6t4HmLkA4ME0/s320/MAY26.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Thanksgiving is now done. Good thing - the class begins Wednesday May 30. I had some fun with the ribbons for the sunflowers and felting the clouds.Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-34388415612605749362012-05-13T10:38:00.000-04:002012-05-13T10:38:26.867-04:00Thanksgiving part 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOCRXhtWaHUS9JLhfWv8d3_abOOxkO6LXAvtT0U1VtJDrW2FIwjduqx3kztz6Wn_jvkIJ0SHipxcpenKK_xTU9W7s5xGXsX84p0lRic3U2aa-T3UVB2BhaMy4scZVM6XpNDE1Lj38L_Mg/s1600/Pilgrim.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOCRXhtWaHUS9JLhfWv8d3_abOOxkO6LXAvtT0U1VtJDrW2FIwjduqx3kztz6Wn_jvkIJ0SHipxcpenKK_xTU9W7s5xGXsX84p0lRic3U2aa-T3UVB2BhaMy4scZVM6XpNDE1Lj38L_Mg/s320/Pilgrim.JPG" width="260" /></a></div>
Most of the characters are now done. Just have to finish the sky.Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-15295177580502476832012-05-01T07:31:00.000-04:002012-05-01T07:31:48.899-04:00Thanksgiving part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Hcz06je0jSi2V-dSH6cN9wqxsyJrGvUkqEuMsOguTQZDlOSprtrPa4cNp5HPcM8dDgm0vm_0YYZELbApskxXeGVK_CE56y6rSnG_i07NXJ45Dszx391mb2xdvDQbnNFhsxHiTLBFhbU/s1600/Indian+boy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Hcz06je0jSi2V-dSH6cN9wqxsyJrGvUkqEuMsOguTQZDlOSprtrPa4cNp5HPcM8dDgm0vm_0YYZELbApskxXeGVK_CE56y6rSnG_i07NXJ45Dszx391mb2xdvDQbnNFhsxHiTLBFhbU/s320/Indian+boy.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Making more progress now. Should be ready to start the class later this month.Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-69551545899215902122012-04-23T10:39:00.000-04:002012-04-23T10:39:09.086-04:00Thanksgiving march begins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRMBMF3Qs1WQw3vPS0hrF05TrW1SBdkmvfcUvO-qQSASGnQY1dGgQOCBKgmCnFXpllTxgsdXHl_awvbgc4GIWp2YzEQshLq2HvU0wuRttLkFWMhcfM3VXwoRyS4vvXIcE_WC5W8vw_p4/s1600/indian+girl.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRMBMF3Qs1WQw3vPS0hrF05TrW1SBdkmvfcUvO-qQSASGnQY1dGgQOCBKgmCnFXpllTxgsdXHl_awvbgc4GIWp2YzEQshLq2HvU0wuRttLkFWMhcfM3VXwoRyS4vvXIcE_WC5W8vw_p4/s320/indian+girl.JPG" width="226" /></a></div>
I love creating stitch guides for Ashley Dillon's marches. It's like dressing up little dolls in costume.<br /><br />This little Indian girl has a beaded outfit and headband and is carrying a bowl of late summer corn.Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-55505333370511126942012-04-19T08:22:00.000-04:002012-04-19T08:22:03.133-04:00Haunted House Finished<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYYMTvoNmaNGK_MuyZC049lNxVIcibLDQkrYzP8o6kR4PfQ2ruRcfveTA8ep7esOaxyqCp_yGDVujiZxY_zW0BWqZ2MvnmRrB0TiocJtpYnFc-dTomh4LqYCm87sOyzLA4nC8M2549nrE/s1600/d8113+fin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="391" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYYMTvoNmaNGK_MuyZC049lNxVIcibLDQkrYzP8o6kR4PfQ2ruRcfveTA8ep7esOaxyqCp_yGDVujiZxY_zW0BWqZ2MvnmRrB0TiocJtpYnFc-dTomh4LqYCm87sOyzLA4nC8M2549nrE/s400/d8113+fin.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Just got the haunted house back from the finisher. It is quite a hit in the store!Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-67954153725772064132012-04-03T12:45:00.001-04:002012-04-06T07:53:59.873-04:00Last Creepy finished<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshUKWS163NcBch74dXvy5Bvc7RorsQ3VpeZwZGT7OZKiLzcKGo4Bzr9jZ4JVT50tN7z7pp7eWlG9BBjDoY4WIU03WHeR-zgFVovXwEu3TB9nvU1CjEVT94k8s8BlY-vgxPI7XVkLE1sc/s1600/467g+fin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshUKWS163NcBch74dXvy5Bvc7RorsQ3VpeZwZGT7OZKiLzcKGo4Bzr9jZ4JVT50tN7z7pp7eWlG9BBjDoY4WIU03WHeR-zgFVovXwEu3TB9nvU1CjEVT94k8s8BlY-vgxPI7XVkLE1sc/s320/467g+fin.jpg" /></a></div>I just finished my last Creepy in the series (I finished the owl and the fraidy cat earlier). It was such a pleasure to follow Robin King's stitch guide--it's like letting someone else drive so you can enjoy the scenery.Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-8565949602192679432012-03-25T16:21:00.001-04:002012-04-01T10:49:19.359-04:00A break in the action<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqSwHmI4AyfdlEMc-rxHmy3jqSQLc4QAmnchcB2j7ERMmpejBEChIF55JRof-DdC9XO11NrXQfTRdgyq7x82LPzcZT-nMJ7jv-7Skj_exyPLw-5USWg-Zzneata4zgwN-uTXfJsbZ5mtQ/s1600/kcnfc2a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqSwHmI4AyfdlEMc-rxHmy3jqSQLc4QAmnchcB2j7ERMmpejBEChIF55JRof-DdC9XO11NrXQfTRdgyq7x82LPzcZT-nMJ7jv-7Skj_exyPLw-5USWg-Zzneata4zgwN-uTXfJsbZ5mtQ/s320/kcnfc2a.JPG" width="210" /></a></div>I've finished stitching the 4th of July March, and I am now finished with the stitch guide.<br />
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I celebrated by finishing this little firecracker canvas by Kelly Clark. I especially like the turquoise and blue stripes. I laid 3 strands of Perle Cotton #3 horizontally and satin stitched over them vertically with Shimmer Blend Ribbon Floss (turquoise) and Sprinkles (blue).Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-9014715454668541162012-03-23T08:44:00.002-04:002012-04-01T10:47:41.096-04:00Mon travail est complet!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhllF2IPUaLhy7rlGzBNz87PB2Vrn-bMa6HxzSulcCJeGQ0NoRo-tvIuEu1GzW7kUY4_QWIfOmWcio0cUzni8OVcbnFSVVJqF7eiQCGC-NO6no7kg4qpMiuLsI1qiKtAT8CWxbiR82PtS8/s1600/101_1728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhllF2IPUaLhy7rlGzBNz87PB2Vrn-bMa6HxzSulcCJeGQ0NoRo-tvIuEu1GzW7kUY4_QWIfOmWcio0cUzni8OVcbnFSVVJqF7eiQCGC-NO6no7kg4qpMiuLsI1qiKtAT8CWxbiR82PtS8/s320/101_1728.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Well, it took a little longer than expected but the 4th of July is done! And, so is the stitch guide.Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-16624342762736311242012-03-21T09:05:00.003-04:002012-03-21T18:14:49.576-04:00Sweet Sixteen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWPL8NUTHRfo3z1yFq-jE2CrJcPERxX5_ZMJ-FirbaJ_zxoJO_9ZEwoNk3UrHftvsER12iPtCPNIPmsn5VlTrYD4CQkMnPpd_cosjtgQY9YjRm40-P0MLEi-cysUfq2qcfcA1LpBCHA90/s1600/wagon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWPL8NUTHRfo3z1yFq-jE2CrJcPERxX5_ZMJ-FirbaJ_zxoJO_9ZEwoNk3UrHftvsER12iPtCPNIPmsn5VlTrYD4CQkMnPpd_cosjtgQY9YjRm40-P0MLEi-cysUfq2qcfcA1LpBCHA90/s320/wagon.JPG" width="221" /></a></div>The finals are near - just need to win 2 more games and the final 4th of July March can begin!Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-54958092437436193532012-03-06T07:57:00.000-05:002012-03-06T07:57:41.180-05:00March Madness - part 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyeQRDGnRvQ8qIQ_IbokCMgMT0nTqtPYIx4AOr5pI-f9vSLbeuR7mfHSLku4k_xaQ25hrMtBM72udpZO7DZ_PWeajEXV12MFMIpcTpCO5tZa9oekb-zmH-E-iR7lo-NLkEVlGzfQ14pgs/s1600/Drummer1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp7ySIq9Kivt3_dH65YmlJ5cXowqtcPwLoq1zrFx83VMBoy1qGOSsbpOD1Oj3sz_tWTp52fO1lksbgUD5oeEaLFvfkgjFNsf-x-tYtNnJxGVZtdOyrf5Kv2K9DUxxlHqvnB6XFueKU0rQ/s1600/Drummer2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp7ySIq9Kivt3_dH65YmlJ5cXowqtcPwLoq1zrFx83VMBoy1qGOSsbpOD1Oj3sz_tWTp52fO1lksbgUD5oeEaLFvfkgjFNsf-x-tYtNnJxGVZtdOyrf5Kv2K9DUxxlHqvnB6XFueKU0rQ/s320/Drummer2.JPG" width="295" /></a></div>Yankee Doodle Dandy plays the drum dressed in a fine coat with a woven belt. And, he stuck a feather in his cap.Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-80491026247953871042012-03-03T18:34:00.000-05:002012-03-03T18:34:01.662-05:00The 4th of July Parade Leader<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavmPdR9BuqSN6nLv1pGqsSeB0ahbKvmoNAqwJEGjGZx2g2AFiWGJeE77UPZkIZkyzf2l55FSpae-IWK6CMUlv0VrWQvj9T9LKmCYOcJoA739ogOxnZLbvbP61wQgKsiGa7HJ-R2TOcvY/s1600/Bird2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavmPdR9BuqSN6nLv1pGqsSeB0ahbKvmoNAqwJEGjGZx2g2AFiWGJeE77UPZkIZkyzf2l55FSpae-IWK6CMUlv0VrWQvj9T9LKmCYOcJoA739ogOxnZLbvbP61wQgKsiGa7HJ-R2TOcvY/s320/Bird2.JPG" width="287" /></a>This guy is truly a leader, dressed in over-dyed plumage, a high hat, vest and monocle. Stay tuned as I add to his haberdashery.Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-715761275788352850.post-60990603794044179822012-02-20T10:48:00.000-05:002012-02-20T10:48:30.100-05:004th of July March - part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbrZScIl8yy0gmuBbhK9xtNPFifK5fwl0XAe15xEnQaE9Bar4vARWDITmKCQ1bl73lgkjl5ZdgiZEEQjHiM_XOyQSU8dXcRyRdlRW6gxSjYnYGQxa78q1L-6ODbcxGijZxLQioOcaFHoI/s1600/Martha.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbrZScIl8yy0gmuBbhK9xtNPFifK5fwl0XAe15xEnQaE9Bar4vARWDITmKCQ1bl73lgkjl5ZdgiZEEQjHiM_XOyQSU8dXcRyRdlRW6gxSjYnYGQxa78q1L-6ODbcxGijZxLQioOcaFHoI/s320/Martha.JPG" width="214" /></a></div>This Little Martha is marching in the 4th of July parade. I gave her a crocheted hat and textured dress for the occasion.Michele Herronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12654778391029697143noreply@blogger.com2