November Paper Doll Outfit

The finisher just emailed me a picture of the finished Novemeber paper doll outfit. I am so pleased with the way it looks. So here's the picture.

ANG SEMINAR

I leave August 24th (or early on the morning of August 25th) for the seminar. I'm taking a design class with Carole Lake and another design class with Janet Mitchell Fishel. I thought both of these courses will tie in well with my National Academy of NeedleArts certification.

I am also looking forward to the auction and to Expo night. Ridgewood Needlepoint will be participating in Expo night on Wednesday, August 29. We will have samples of the paper dolls and at least one finished outfit!.

We also have some canvases geared for Baltimore including a canvas of Camden yards.

If you will be at ANG, please come and say hello.

End of Summer

August 15th always strikes me as the beginning of the end. As a kid, I remember staying with my grandparents. Usually, that was the first day that it was a little chilly in the morning. Maybe it wasn't always so but that's how I remember it.

We are going to close at 5pm on Thursday, August 30th so we can enjoy the last few days of the summer.

I've been working on my canvas for the National Academy of Needlearts so my other projects have taken a back seat. I'm hoping to work on the Rockerfeller Center stocking this weekend and the leopard coat for the paper dolls.

Deborah Wilson' Classes at Ridgewood Needlepoint

We have started to take reservations for Deborah Wilson's classes. The butterfly has been really popular but a couple of you wanted to know if you can change its colors. It's possible we just need to know ahead of time.

I can also get the hydrangea painted on a different color canvas. We just need to know ahead since it will take a little time.

Do come in and see the canvases as soon as possible so we can make any changes you need!

New Threads

We have put up all the Weeks Dye Works threads. The colors are beautiful! We have the more natural colors in floss, pearl 5 and pearl 3. Come and see them. Everyone has liked them so far!

Finishing

One of the things we love best at Ridgewood Needlepoint is to see the projects come back as finished items. Unfortunately I was out last week and didn't get to see Janet and Lynn's finished pieces in person. But I was lucky that Rob had taken a pictures so I could share them with you.

Janet's elephant is fantastic. She did a great job. Look at all the wonderful detail and the wonderful border.


Lynn did a great job on the tool belt. Framing a belt is a wonderful idea for a belt canvas. Click on the picture to see it bigger.

Fabulous Pillow

Bobbi did a fantastic pillow for a friend who was graduating from college. The mascot is adorable but so much more fun in his animal print pillow. I can understand way the recipient loves it. What a great gift!

Cooler Seasons to Come

When I went to my car today it said it was 100 degrees! Although I love the summer, this heat is way to much for me. Look at our new skiing needlepoints and see if they can cool you down. I'm posting both -- I hope.

Lighthouse Box

I know lots of people are about to take off for beaches with Lighthouses. We have a delightful lighthouse box that's a perfect beach project. It's little but will help make a great reminder of the summer during the months to come. I've posted a picture of the box (it's put together but not stitched). Of course, yours will look better because you will stitch it.

We also have a great Halloween hat in case you are ready for the cooler days of autumn.

Gretchen V.'s Candy Village

Gretchen V. did a beautiful job on the Beau Geste Candy Village piece. And she was the first in the class to finish it. We sent it off to the finisher a few weeks ago. The piece is being sent directly to the ANG seminar but we have a sneak peek to share with you. It's absolutely fabulous. It makes me want to get to work on mine.

Traveling This Summer

Even before I owned Ridgewood Needlepoint,I always loved to look and buy at Needlepoint Stores when I traveled. This summer, I'm going to Baltimore and Seattle. I'll be using The Needlecrafters' Travel Companion so that Bruce and I can sneak away to look at the needlepoint stores in Seattle. And I'll bring it so I can find the stores need ANG seminar in Baltimore.

If you have a wider needleworkers'interest, you could use The Knittters's, Needlepointers's, Crocheters's, Weavers's and Spinners's Travel Guide 2007-2008.

Both books provide maps, store hours, and descriptions to make your travel shopping easier. Of course, we're interested in what you saw that was different!

Fall Classes-National Teachers

We received Deborah Wilson's canvases for two of her classes. The Gilded Butterfly is just beautiful. You really should come into the store to see the finished canvas. The picture just doesn't do the workmanship justice! Deborah will be teaching that class on Tuesday, October 30th. We are taking reservations now for all of Deborah's classes.

We have also received her completed sample for the Gilded Hydrangea. It is just beautiful. I can't wait to stitch it. I just love Hydrangeas! Did anyone read Martha Stewart's Living this month? The magazine says that Martha is responsible for people looking at hydrangeas with an enlightened view. I've always loved them and never thought that they were overblown beach flowers. But of course, I've never been to a beach community that I didn't like!

New Canvases & Threads

The June National Needlework Association Trade Show has been over for almost two months, we are beginning to see some of the new canvases! Yesterday, we received two fabulous canvases with a skiing focus. One looks like a travel poster with a woman skiier. The other canvas is a mountain scene with a round skiing lodge. Both are fabulous. What a great canvas for your ski house!

Raymond Crawford has sent us a delightful lighthouse box. The sample is in but three canvases are on their way in. I'd recommend placing your order since one is already spoken for.

The "Jersey Girls Don't Pump Gas" is the most popular in pink but the yellow and black one (based on our state's license plate) is also very popular. We even had one made that says "Jersey Boys Don't Pump Gas". It's the perfect project for the beach. Not too complicated but still lots of fun.

We also have some very sweet Kelly Clark mini socks and mittens. They are also great traveling projects and there's still time to complete before Christmas!

The Weeks Dye Works threads arrived yesterday. We haven't put them up yesterday but hope to get them in soon. But at least you can purchase them now.

Dottie's Needlepoint

Almost two years ago, Dottie came in with her granddaughter. Dottie decided they were going to learn to needlepoint together. Dottie had picked this bride and groom needlepoint for her granddaughter's Hope Chest. It was done with love and talent.

Last week, Dottie came in with the framed piece. (You can probably see the reflection of the class in the piece.) Dottie learned lots of new stitches doing this piece. She is now working on another wedding piece. But I wanted to share this one with you.

School Santas and School Snowmen

I finally got a picture of a sample school Santa and School Snowman. These delightful ornaments can be done for virtually any school. Let us know the abbreviations you want to use and the school colors.

These are a great travel project. See the pictures below.

November Outfit for the Paper Dolls

My first paper doll club outfit is almost finished. I've padded the turkey and done the final layer in a Weeks Dye Works floss.The little white caps on the turkey legs are finished, too. I just have to finish the black and white checked border on her apron and her gold buttons. If I really concentrate, I could have it done by this weekend!

I was really nervous about the turkey but I'm so pleased with it. I can't wait to get if finished so I can have my paper doll dress.

I loved working with the conjoined creations soy silk for the skirt. Basically, I love red but I must say on this piece, I loved the apricot sorbet from The Threadgatherer even more. It's just perfect.

See the picture below.

November Paper Doll Outfit

I'm almost halfway done with the November outfit. I love the color of the sweater.

The biggest challenge is going to be the roasted turkey. I'm planning on using a Weeks Dye Works floss combined with a bijoux. I havent' decided on the stitch but I think the turkey definitely needs to be padded!

School Snowmen and School Santas

We have just received adorable Santa and Snowmen ornaments. They are painted with the school's names and the schools colors. We've already sold quite a few of the Ridgewood ones. We can get more and get also the school you want.

They are very sweet.

July 4th Week

Although the store will be open on Thursday, July 5th, I won't be back until Sunday, July 8th to teach the make-up class on Rockerfeller Center.

I'm spending the week stitching on Shelter Island. Okay, I'm also swimming, reading, lazing about but I have done some stitching. Mostly, I've worked on The Quilt Line. It's the beginner's class I'm working on. It's part of the required work to complete the teacher preparation year in the National Assembly of NeedleArts.
In addition to designing and drawing the canvas, I've stitched about 1/2 of the canvas. In addition, I've completed the course outline and now need to work on the lesson plans. Part of the requirement is to prepare stitch samples.

I miss my painted canvas. The design is a line-drawn canvas. So, sometimes I've had to change threads or stitches to get the desired coverage.

It's coming along. I've done two of the quilts, one mountain, most of the ground and sky. Perhaps, I'll add a picture for you to see in the new future.

In addition, I'm supposed to be working on my Rockerfeller Stocking and the November (Thanksgiving) paper doll outfit. But I still have several days of stitching ahead.

I'll let you know how I progress.

The Ridgewood Stable

Our exclusive Ridgewood Ornament will no longer be sold after Saturday, June 30th. We have one in stock and will accept orders only through Saturday.

The ornament is a view of the snow-covered Stable at Christmas. You can see the picture at www.ridgewoodneedlepoint.com. Then select kits.

Paper Doll Club

I'm placing the order for the paper dolls this week. So if you've been hesitating but want to join the club, this is the time to let us know. It's interesting. The most popular dolls have been Roz and Liz.

I'm waiting for one potential embellishment to come in before I start stitching the first outfit of the club - November. Your doll will be wearing autumn colors as she brings the roasted turkey to the table.

Candy Village, Cording and Doug Kreinik

We had our last Candy Village class yesterday. We spend most of the morning learning how to create our own cording. It was a lot of fun and much less intimidating than I thought!

When Doug Kreinik comes on Sunday, September 30th, he will be including cording in his sessions. Cording is a great embellishment on certain canvases. It can really give an item a very finished look when you create your own cording based on the threads you used.

New Gingher Scissors

Just in time for July 4, Gingher has released their new pattern in their designer series. It is a red, white and blue scissors. It's perfect for stitching and celebrating the holiday.

New Silk & Ivory Colors

We just received the new silk and ivory colors. They are beautiful. Two of these colors belong to the pink cocktail colors. One is called Singapore Sling and the other is Sangria.
The next color is clover and it is a bright light green. Ann of Brown Paper Packages says it belongs between Killarney and Kelly.

Finally, there is a new flesh tone called Porcelain. It is lovely. I can't wait to use it.

Deborah Wilson's Classes at Ridgewood Needlepoint

I've confirmed with Deborah Wilson and Beau Geste her teaching schedule for Ridgewood Needlepoint. Her first class will be the Gilded Hydrangea. It will meet on Friday and Saturday, October 26th & 27th. The second class will be Neptune's Sentry. It will meet on Sunday, October 28th & Monday, October 29th. Finally, on Tuesday, October 30th, she will teach her beautiful butterfly.

We should be receiving the models soon. I can't wait.

Kelly Clark Trunk Show

If you haven't been in to see the Kelly Clark Trunk Show, you can view her designs on her web site:www.kellyclarkneedlepoint.com. They are wonderful. I particularly love some of the vintage Santas and the mini socks! I'm having trouble deciding which ones I want to stitch. I'm already working on the Santa and Farm Friends. But I love the Nordic mini stocking and its matching mittens!

During the trunk show, all her designs are 10% off our normal price. So check out her website.

Of course, they are even more fantastic in color.

Phoebe

The newest paper doll is Phoebe. Her picture is posted below. In addition to the outfits shown in our newsletter, there is now a "jammies" and a Chanakuh outfit. More will be coming. What outfit do you think the paper dolls need?

Kelly Clark Trunk Show

The Kelly Clark trunk show finally arrived today. We plan on getting it up tomorrow so by Friday, everything should be out.

Her designs are delightful. As you know, we don't let canvases out until the end of the trunk show so that you can see the full range of the designer's work. We take reservations on the canvases and order duplicates. The person who reserves first gets the trunk show canvas. We do order the duplicate canvases immediately but there is still a little delay.

Kelly has some lovely small projects that are perfect for summer traveling.

Deborah Wilson of Beau Geste Designs

Deborah Wilson and Beau Geste Designs weren't at the TNNA show this time. But fortunately for me, several of our customers took classes with her at other locations. Nancy raved about the hydrangea class. In addition, Deborah showed her a beautiful butterfly that Deborah had just finished stitching.

I followed up with Deborah to see if we could teach these two classes in addition to Neptune's Sentry. Ridgewood Needlepoint will have Deborah Wilson teaching at our shop for five days in October instead of 4. In addition to Neptune's Sentry, she will teach the butterfly (an intensive one day class) and the hydrangea!

Deborah shares with many of us a love of hydrangeas. Her grandmother had a house on the Jersey Shore that had hydrangeas. (My grandparents had handrangeas in their garden in Queens.)Wait until you see this beautiful piece. I can't wait to stitch it.


Deborah will be here from October 26-29th. She will either be adding October 25th or October 30th! I'll let you know as soon as I know.

Just to let you know. We've already have several people signed up for Neptune's Sentry.

Kelly Clark Trunk Show

I was so disappointed today. We didn't receive the Kelly Clark trunk show yet. I'm hoping that it will arrive on Monday since it's supposed to start on Tuesday! I got Mike, our UPS guy to agree to call me if there are any packages for me on Monday.

Her designs are just wonderful. I know some of you loved the Santa and Farm Friends that I took at TNNA in January.

Her designs frequently come in #18 and #13 mesh so customers can get the size they want. I'll let you know when it arrives!

Amanda Lawford

Amanda Lawford didn't have a booth at Columbus. Instead, she focused on her website which is now operational. It's a great website. We hope to have the link up soon but in the meantime, you can just go to: www.amandalawford.com There you can see her designs plus the wonderful pet designs of Constance Coleman.

Kelly Clark Trunk Show

We are waiting anxiously for the Kelly Clark Trunk Show to arrive. Of course, Kelly had to pack it up after she returned from Columbus. With luck, we'll get it tomorrow but to be safe, I'm predicting that we'll be getting it up on Tuesday. Kelly has some wonderful vintage Santa Designs. She also has great topiaries. Come and see these wonderful canvases.

TNNA Report

I'm back home and still have much to sort-new color sheets, notes from classes etc. Ridgewood Needlepoint will be trying a new soy thread. I have a small sample to try and then will bring in some additional skeins for you to try too. It's called Conjoined Creations. The classic collars are due in September but I want you to try it first!I hear that the designers-Tony Minieri, Cynthia Thomas, David McCAskill-all like it.

I forgot to mention a great idea from Julia's Needleworks. It's pre-finished dog collars that come in different collars and sizes. They are lightweight. I can't wait to see the painted designs. I need to stitch a collar for Marlowe (my apricot standard poodle)so it will be one of these. Of course, Lily, our Norwich terrier will need a matching collar, too.

TNNA Show - Day Three

Today is the last day of the show. It's much quieter and the remaining retailers are trying to tie up loose ends before they leave.

I talked with Doug Kreinik about his visit to Ridgewood Needlepoint on Sunday, September 30th. We are thinking about two classes: one on cording and the other on threads. In fact, Doug decorated my cell phone for me. I know some of you also scrapbook. He has great ideas for that, too.

I found some new Judaic designs that should be arriving soon. In March 2008 we will host a Judaic trunk show online and at the store from different designers so you can see as many canvases as possible.

There are lots of new finishing ideas. Zecca has a six rounds that were finished as long cyclinders. She then had then wrapped in silk. The cyclinders can be used individually or as a group. It was a great looking item.

I've been looking at threads for the Paper Dolls. The new blonde doll's name is Phoebe. They promise me a picture as soon as they get home. Keep watching.

Needlepoint Broad was displaying Ebbetts Field and the Fireworks from Anytown USA. I also loved the To-Do List for the dog owner.

There are some new designers at the show. Both Clara Wells and Mary Ann Murphy have some wonderful belts. Clara even has some great designs on #13 canvas.

Lowery has a new clmap that attaches to the table using your existing clamp. It's
pretty convenient for the traveling stitcher.

Maggie Co. has a great canvas on table manners. There's now a frame that goes with it. I've placed my order and can't wait until it arrives.

I'll be back at Ridgewood Needlepoint tomorrow.

The National Needlework Association Trade Show

I'm writing from Columbus again today. Today is the first day of the actual show. I've managed to walk the whole show.

The first day I try to visit all the vendors to get an overview of what's available. Usually I manage not to buy much on the first day. Then on day two and three, I'm always afraid that I haven't gotten enough.

For the Paper Doll Club, there there is now a blonde paper doll. (I have to find out her name). Of course, paper doll club memebers can choose her. I'll get a picture up and soon as possible. New outfits now include a Chanakuh outfit and fuzzy pajamas. What would you like to see?

Lisa Krause created the dolls. Her borzoi was used by Barbara Russell as the model of a great canvas of a borzoi who's quite regal but wearing glasses. Barbara's also added more dog belts-golden retrievers, boston terriers and corgis.

Magie & Co. is now licensing Our Faithful Friends wonderfully whimsical dog and cat canvases. The're great. The belt I did for ny husband Bruce was designed by Our Faithful Friends. Bruce and our son seem to share the belt!

Ridgewood Needlepoint will have some great needlepoint bags coming in June and September. The bags are ideal for carrying those projects. I also found a great star tote with a leather pouch. It's perfect for that large project you need to carry with you.

I have to admit that I couldn'r resist a rug this time. It's by Isabel's. It's a hurge canvas with a 1940's red truck. It's wonderful. I can't wait to get it.

I've ordered more threads for the stocking - Rainbow Gallery's new panache and Kreinik's gourmet colors. People have been admiring the Rockerfeller stocking all day.

I'll try to give you more information abot other designers tomorrow.

The National Needlework Association Tradeshow

I'm writing the blog from the National Needlework Association's Trade Show in Columbus, Ohio. The show doesn't actually start until tomorrow but I've already taken some fantastic classes! I can't wait to utilize some of the new embellishment techniques I learned from Suzy Murphy(yes, that's Suzy Murphy of the Needlepoint book series i.e. Suzy's Darn Stitches, Suzy's Small Stiches, Suzy's Portable stitches). A group of shop owners and teachers shared canvases that challenged us. It was fun to share with other shopowners and teachers people who develop stitch guides daily. I got some great ideas for the Rockerfeller Center Stocking. We'll be using them at Ridgewood Needlepoint.

In the class with Suzanne Howren and Beth Robertson (yes, the authors of Stitches to Go and the Stitches for Effects series), we used some very innovative embellishment techniques. We used the materials for goldwork in a non-traditional way. I think one technique may be perfect for the angels on the Rockerfeller Center Stocking. I also got to stitch wiht a new thread by Rainbow Gallery called Panache. It's a lighter weight than Patina and comes in more vibrant colors. It may be perfect for the moon on Rockerfeller Center. In case you haven't guessed, one of my goals at the show is to get some other threads for the stocking! Of course, I'm also looking forward to using these techniques in the Paper Doll Club. I'm also looking fot some fun embellishments for the clothes.

Suzanne and Beth have a new book coming out in August on new techniques for embellishment. I got a glimpse of it and it should be great. I also saw Julia Snyder's new book on Backgrounds. It's also a must have. Amy Bunger has DVD #2 in her series. Of course, you know I love my needlepoint books, but I now need to include CD's and DVDs! Ridgewood Needlepoint will be carrying them all.

I was helping my sister set up the Needlepoint Broad booth. You know she does those great stadium canvases. She's added some new ones and we should have the Mets soon. In addition, Jersey Girls Don't Pump Gas now comes in a #13 mesh.

I got to peek at the show early because I was a helper. It's amazing to see it morph from empty booth with boxes lining the hallways to a Trade Show!

I'll try to report back tomorrow.

Memorial Day Weekend

I can't wait for the weekend to begin. I'm planning on working on all my active canvases - Rockerfeller Center, Candy Village, May of the Candy Doll, and my jean jacket. I'm hoping I can make a dent in all of them. The problem is that once I start on one canvas, I like to continue working on that one.

The store is open tomorrow for those people who are staying in the area.

Have a great weekend.

Ebbetts Field

Needlepoint Broad just sent me a copy of Ebbetts Field. It's a great idea for the former Brooklyn resident or the true Baseball fan. There are other fabulous baseball designs on that website. We have some in the store and can get the others.

Of course, we are waiting for Shea Stadium.

Paper Doll Club

These paper dolls bring me back to my Grandmother's house. She kept some toys in a closet for visiting grandchildren. My sister and I spend a lot of time there since my father was in law school. We loved playing with the paper dolls. Do you remember how the little paper tags sometimes ripped? With these paperdolls, it's not an issue.

I've been busy stitching the first outfit for the Paper Dolls Club. It's the May outfit. My paper doll with be wearing a bright yellow slicker with jeans and she's holding some silk flowers!

I can't wait to start stitching the leopard coat!

Mother's Day

We have several designs that are already kitted so your siginificant other or children could just order the kit. Immediately available are the Halloween Cat and the Ridgewood Stable Ornament. Both would make great gifts for a stitcher.

See the pictures on the web site.

Mother's Day

We can keep a list of items you want for Mother's Day. In addition to gift certificates, our suggestions would include books, laying tools and organizational tools such as tool kits by Yazzi and the Handy Caddy.

We have Gail Sirna's new book -

In Praise of the Needlewoman

. Gail's book focuses on paintings that focus on women stitching. It's beautiful.

We have Linda Corriosi's embellishment books

Canvas Embellishment

and

Canvas Embellishment-The Sequel.

Do you have

Amy's Cookbook for Stitchers

or

Celebrity Chefs

These books are among my favorites. Each book has a binder. Then chapters can be added over time. The chapters are arranged by a type of stitch or technique. There are great charts and suggestions of how to use.Your kids can even buy you a chapter at a time.

Amy Bunger also has a new DVD which shows how to do certain techniques.

How'd You Do That? Tips Hints + Knots

You could also get a gift certificate for a class. We are planning our classes for the summer. We plan to do City Snow (known at the store as the Coat Ladies) and a class on the stadiums.

Candy Village

The Candy Village class meets again this Sunday after a two month interval. I am stitching the sky so that I can do one more roof before the class.

It does look great.

The Princess and Me Trunk Show

Helen finished hanging up the Princess and Me Designs yesterday. They look great. Each ornament comes with a stitch guide and a picture of a finished sample. They are so small that they make great projects to take along with you- as you travel, sit at the baseball game etc.

We have them until May 19th. Come in and see the great samples.

I'm going to try to take pictures and add them to the web site so that our far away customers can also participate in the trunk show. Remember all the Princess and Me designs are 10% off during the trunk show.

Summer Purses

After the cold and wet weather of the last week, it was great to have some sunny and warm weather. Both customers and the staff are proudly wearing their new summer purses.

Lynn's purse is a great summer fabric bag with a John Johannsen needlepoint attached to it.

Sally stitched a floral square for her canvas tote bag.

Donna has started to stitch a Cooper Oaks canvas that is a picture of a canvas tote bag with flowers. She's planning on putting it on her tote!

I'll be adding pictures as they become availabe.

NAN HEMPEL

An email customer inquired about what Nan Hempel canvases we have in stock. I then pulled out all her canvases. Nan is a wonderful designer. She has an identifiable style. Her colors are beautiful. Her #13 mesh designs are great for stitches.

One of my favorite canvases is her Renaissance Bunny who is playing an accordian. He is typical of a Nan because his colors are luminous. Marcia did the companion to the Renaissance Bunny at a David McCaskill embellishment class. It is just fantastic. I just wish I had done it.

I also love her Christmas stockings. The Santa and the Angel are both so grown-up and yet so evocative of Christmas. I also love her Boy in the Moon Christmas Stocking!

She also has a great series of flowers with borders. They would make a great grouping of pillows!

The customer asked if we had pictures. Since I had pulled out all her canvases, I decided to take photos. I missed two canvases and will take those tomorrow. Then I will either add them to the website or the blog.

Keep checking back for her pictures.



Keep checking back for her pictures.

Needlepoint collars and cuffs.

At the TNNA show in January, L'Esprit de France had a brand new item: collars and cuffs in zebra, leopard, and plaid patterns (there are actually other patterns but I liked these the best). You stitch the cuffs and/or collar. Then just have it finished with velcro so you can attach it to your favorite jacket!

I particularly loved the collars (Everybody knows I don't like to stitch too much of the same thing). Anyway, I asked for just the collars and they have just come in. I think it will be fun.

Summer Purse

It's almost summer but there is still time to stitch a small canvas and add it to a bag.This customer did just that. She used a Silver Needle ornament and then had us add it to a summer purse. It looks great and will be a wonderful summer bag.

Renovation

The HVAC guys finished a little later than planned. That meant the painter didn't get in until today. Unfortunately, we can't start truly putting things back together until tomorrow night because the paint has to dry. We will be open on Tuesday but may be slightly disorganized.

The best laid plans of mice and men and needlepoint stores.

Jersey Girls Don't Pump Gas

We got our finished pillow back. I love the way it looks! It's so much fun. We have it in the store and the picture is below. If you have to do it for someone or yourself, it comes in the pink and green and yellow and black (because of the NJ license plate!). In addition, it comes on #18 mesh but we will also be able to get it in #13 mesh. It look great as you can see.


It was stitched using Trio and Vineyard silk. The background is done in a Nobuko stitch. It was fun to stitch but even more stitch to have.

Girl Scout Troop Pictures

This past week the store has been closed due to the addition of a new heating and air conditioning system. I finally got around to emptying the pictures on my camera and found the pictures of the Girl Scout Troop. These pictures show Helen Haydon teaching this group of 5th grade girls. On Monday, April 9 we will teaching a second Scout Troop.

We now have a slightly smaller project so that there is more of a possiblity they will finish once they get home.

Hearts

We will be teaching a girl scout troop on April 9. The girls will be working on a small heart. We enjoyed working with the last troop. It's wonderful to be teaching kids how to stitch! Hopefully, I'll be able to do the pictures this time.

Getting Ready for a New HVAC System

We will be closed for a week starting on Monday. It's a first for us but we really needed a new heating and air conditioning unit. We were lucky to make it through the winter but want to make sure the summer will be tolerable.

To prepare, we've taken things off the walls. But tomorrow will be the big put away and cover up day!

I'm hoping to use the week to get more pictures up, to work on Stitch guides and to work on my projects for Nan Certification. I also want to do some stitching!

I'm looking forward to the stitching time. I'm still working on the Rockerfeller Center Christmas Tree Stocking and I also have to work on Candy Village. I've also started to work on the May paper doll with a stitch guide by David McCaskill! It's been fun and I hope to get it done soon.

National Assembly of NeedleArts

Helen and I enjoyed the Natioanl Assembly of NeedleArts. We both learned lots of techniques for teaching and are excited to learn more. Helen took a class with Debbie Stiehler and I took two days of a class with Shay Pendray. I got to work on the canvas from Shay's "Stitching Towards Perfection" while learning a little about Japanese embroidery.

Kansas City was lovely.

Of course, I now have lots of work to do. But I am looking forward to expanding the stitching == and teaching it.

David McCaskill's Visit

We've just finished four great days of classes. David McCaskill did three canvas enhancement classes and one thread program. He came up with fabulous stitches for at least 24 canvases using great threads. I was particularly impressed with his approach to Susan B's roosters. His treatment of the sun was fantastic.

Thirteen people were able to attend his Thread Program Class. He addressed overdyes and how to work with different threads. It was amazing what he did with the threads. I can't wait to try them on my own canvases!

National Assembly of Needlearts

Helen and I are leaving on Wednesday to attend the National Assembly of Needlearts. We have both been accepted in the teacher certification program. On Thursday and Friday we will be immersed in sessions on teaching. On Saturday and Sunday, we are each taking a class.

Rockerfeller Center Stocking

On Sunday, the class met again. We had the opportunity to discuss possible stitches for the buildings. In addition, we had the chance to admire the progress people have made on the stocking. Gretchen V. has done some of the buildings with a burden stitch. Diane B. has done the sky, the moon, many buildings, santa and his sleigh and the bridge and the trees. It looks great. Her trees were stunning and she used basketweave for the blue building behind the trees so that it does recede.

Next month we will be doing a work session to give us time to stitch.

Circle of Hearts

I taught the Circle of Hearts Class today. It was fun to see the piece come to life with other people stitching it. I had finished the background last week using a heart pattern from Dede's chapter in Amy Bunger's Celebrity Chefs. I used Designer's Dream and 1/16 Kreinik ribbon.

The backgrouns really made the circle stand out. I promise I will take a picture.

I was lucky to have that canvas for the class without restitching the whole thing. About three weeks ago, I realized that I couldn't find the canvas. I searched the store and home. Finally, I drove out to Shelter Island to look again. I still couldn't find the canvas so I had to ask my husband to look again at home. He couldn't find it either but did find all my works in progress! Finally I found the canvas tucked in the back of another canvas on a frame.

Then on Saturday, one of our customers accidentally took the canvas home! Fortunately I had it back later that day so I could do prepare for class.

I definitely will teach this class again but might split it into two sessions.

Circle of Hearts

The first Circle of Hearts class meets in less than two weeks. I still have to stitch the background! It is a very pretty piece and ideal for learning shadow stitching. We hope to repeat it again, perhaps as another one day class and also as a multiple session class.

Trunk Shows

We are taking down the Kathy Schenkel trunk show today. I'm sorry to see it go because it is such a great line for learning new stitches. The pieces are not overwhelming so you can actually see yourself finishing it. I'm always amazed at how interesting it is to have many of a designers canvases up on the walls. Kathy's work is fabulous to learn new stitches because she has large blocks of colors.

Rockerfeller Center Christmas Stocking

This weekend I saw several stokcings. Karen P. is doing her tree in French knots but has combined 4 or 5 different kreiniks. The tree is beautiful. Ellen B. has almost finished her sky. Gretchen V. has completed her sky, her tree, and her rink. She did a burden stitch on the blue buildings which looks great. Our class meets on March 11th -- I can't wait to see the progress everyone has made.

Tree Pictures

Below are some pictures of the Rockerfeller Center Christmas Stockings. Obviously, each stitcher works at her own pace. Some are much farther along than others. But we have been inspired by each other's work. Some have even gotten to the skating rink and the water fall. We are not meeting in February to give ourselves time to try to finish the sky.


The pictures below are just a sampling. Obviously the thread and the stitch make a difference. In the first three photos-MaryLynn, Gretchen and Mary, all three stitchers used Criss-Cross Hungarian. MaryLynn used a different color than the other two. But look at the difference between Gretchen's and Mary's. They both used the same stitch and the same color. The difference is that Gretchen left openings for the beads and varied the weight of the thread!










The next three photos show stockings all stitched with French Knots. Ignoring how far along we each are, look at the different effect. Nancy stitched her lights in French knots as she went along. Ellen added the lights later. I haven't decided whether or not to add lights.

Ellen used three different weights of Kreinik while I used mostly #16 braid, only using #12 braid on the outer edges.








I love seeing the differences. I can't wait to see how we all progress!

David McCaskill Classes

The Friday, March 23rd canvas enhancement class is already full and there is only one spot left on Saturday. Sunday will be the thread program. I'm really looking forward to that since I do believe that David is ingenious with how to get the most bang for the thread! He's not bound by the rules.

I'm trying to decide whether or not to offer a third enhancement class instead of the One Flew Over the Pumpkin Patch. I do love David's pieces. I have a couple of people who would like to do his potting shed piece. But I also know that we won't be able to get his enhancement classes.

Both Sally and I have been guided by David in the past. Below I have posted a copy of Sally's Red Sox Canvas(canvas by Needlepoint Broad. David suggested many of the threads and stitches. Isn't it fantastic?

Kathy Schenkel Trunk Show

The Kathy Schenkel Designs Trunk Show has arrived. Suzanne and I spend this afternoon checking everything in. Tomorrow morning, I hope to have as much of it on the walls as possible.

They are really fun canvases. Lots of Santas-sports, professions, monthly. Lots of Christmas ornaments including some cute ones that are finished as little boxes. And of course, there are her signature mini stockings with a small stuffed figure! Suzanne and I both loved the various baby signs and the tooth fairy pillows! There are also small cats and dogs in stars and dogs that can be put on purses.

Come to see her line. One of these things I love best about Kathy's designs is that she has a unique style.

David McCaskill

As many of you know, Ridgewood Needlepoint has been fortunate to have David McCaskill yearly. In fact, when he reduced his travel schedule, we still continued to have him.

This week, David told me that he is going to limit his teaching to the stores and guilds near his home. So unfortunately, this will be his last teaching engagement at Ridgewood Needlepoint.

We already have him scheduled to do two canvas embellishment/enhancement classes on Friday and Saturday March 23 & 24th. Right now we are planning on having him do a thread class. That class will focus on the use of overdyed threads plus how utilize other threads for unique enhancements. (I've always been amazed by David's use of threads. As those of you who have taken his classes know, David is not bound by the rules!)

I'm still hoping to do the "One Flew Over the Pumpkin Patch" class on Monday. We will be the first group to do this class after the Goddess weekend. But if there is an overwhelming preference for a third enhancement class, we could do that. One other possiblity is individual appointments with David. Please come in and let us know what you prefer or email us at stitches@ridgewoodneedlepoint.com.

David McCaskill

The group that was going to host David McCaskill on Saturday, March 24th has decided that they can't do it.

I am now trying to determine how to fill Saturday. I have thought of having both canvas embellishment classes on Friday and Saturday. On Sunday, we can do his overdyed thread class and on Monday the One Flew Over The Pumpkin Patch.

David's overdyed threads class is an excellent class on the techniques to use when using these threads. He's excellent at demonstrating how to use them most effectively.

Please call the store (201-612-7770) or email us at stitches@optonline.net to let us know what your preferences are!

Tomorrow's Annual Superbowl Sale

Our annual Superbowl sale is tomorrow. It starts at 7AM. In past years, customers were waiting to get in when we got there to get organized. Last year was the first year customers wore pajamas. It was really fu lots of canvases on sale. In addition, we have some truly great buys. Medici for 2 for a $1. Gutterman Seed beads are $1 per tube or 6 for $5!

Lots of canvases are on sale. In addition, sale canvases are 65% off the first hour and 60% off the second hour!

We have a small selection of books on sale - Father B's Stitches and Paint YOur Own Canvas.

We are looking forward to seeing you tomorrow!

David McCaskill's Classes

I can't believe that David McCaskill will be here in two months! He is scheduled to teach for three days at Ridgewood Needlepoint-Friday, March 23 and Sunday & Monday, March 25 & 26th. We have already started enrollments for his Friday embellishment class which is limited to 8.

Originally, I was going to schedule his Halloween Hat for Sunday & Monday. It's a great project with lots of great stitches and threads. It will cost $370 for the two days; that includes the complete kit (canvases, threads, stretcher bars etc.).




But David wrote to me this week and said we could be the first group to do his "One Flew Over the " project (It was done at his Goddess weekend.) It's a one day class for $230 (includes complete kit and teaching fee) and then he could do a second embellishment class on Monday -- again limited to 8 people.

I'm really torn. I love Halloween so either project works for me. Both projects look fun so the question is what you want to do. Please look at the pictures and email me at the store.

Don't forget to sign up quickly -- we have limited space.

Post TNNA

I just learned this week that I had won a prize from the pre Tnna preview Promenade! It was open to retailers who sent to the booths or classes sponsored by certain teachers or designers. I had attended classes by Tink Boord Dill and Janet Perry so I was able to enter. Janet Perry is the one who writes the wonderful review of TNNA.

So go to that web site www.yarnandthread.com to see who else has won!

In addition, some of the show orders have started to come in. We are working on the "New Jersey Girls Don't Pump Gas" sign. In addition, two fabulous canvases of shore houses from Maggie Co. arrived yesterday in addition to more outfits for the paper dolls! I plan to take pictures of those next week.

TNNA Review

Janet Perry of Nuts About Needlepoint (http://www.nuts-about-needlepoint.com)did a great review of the TNNA show. The Barbara Elmore designs were beautiful but pricey.

I'm including my response to Janet."Janet's review was terrific. I was intrigued by a couple of other things. Maggie had some beautiful houses that looked like the sun was just hitting them right. They would be great for stitches.

Maggie also had laminated paper dolls with an outfit for each month. Unlike the ones my grandmother kept for us to play with, these are middle-aged dolls! The outfits were fun. My favorites were the leopard coat and the May outfit-a gardener's outfit. I've ordered my doll and plan to do each outfit as a canvas of the month with stitch guides!

I've ordered the pendants and hope to be able to send my two pendants off by the beginning of next week.

There were also great stocking cuffs at Elizabeth Turner, Needlepoint Broad and Associated Talents.

Needlepoint Broad also had a great "Jersey Girls don't pump Gas."

In FACT, I've started to stitch it already. RIght now it's available in pink and green but it will be available in yellow and black (like the current license plate and in blue and yellow like the old ones.

Needlepoint Jewelry

I have been diligently working on two designs that will be turned into needlepointed pendants. They are quick to stitch and will be lovely to wear. They come in many different designs including initials. I'm hopint to send mine off before next week and should be wearing them in February. I'll post a picture as soon as it comes back.

Stocking Cuffs

I have stitched 16 hand-painted needlepoint stockings in my 30+ years of stitching. Currently, I am working on the Rockerfeller Center Christmas stocking -- stocking number 17!

But if you already have two + children or grandchildren (with others to come), it can seem like an overwhelming prospect to start stitching stockings for everyones. A great solution is stocking cuffs. You just stitch the top part and the main part of the stocking is created from fabric. At the TNNA show, Needlepoint Broad www.needlepointbroad.com, Elizabeth Turner, Associated Talents www.aneedlepoint.com and Beau Geste www.beaugestedesigns.com all had great stocking cuffs.

Below is the picture of a customer's grandson with his stocking and its needlepointed cuff.

There's loads of time before next Christmas to finish several if you need to!

Flying with Needlepoint

I am attaching the most recent guidelines of what you can and can't bring along for flying. Most disturbing is that supposedly clovers can no long be brought along. I will be getting some inexpensive blunt scissors for you to bring along. Hope this helps you.

Please note that it does depend on the security officer. In fact, I accidentally traveled to San Diego with a sharp metal laying tool. Ooops!

Transporting Knitting Needles & Needlepoint

Knitting needles are permitted in your carry-on baggage or checked baggage. However, there is a possibility that the needles can be perceived as a possible weapon by one of our Security Officers. Our Security Officers have the authority to determine if an item could be used as a weapon and may not allow said item to pass through security. We recommend the following when bring knitting needles on an airplane:

* Circular knitting needles are recommended to be less than 31 inches in total length
* We recommend that the needles be made of bamboo or plastic (Not Metal)
* Scissors must have blunt points
* In case a Security Officer does not allow your knitting tools through security it is recommended that you carry a self addressed envelope so that you can mail your tools back to yourself as opposed to surrendering them at the security check point.
* As a precautionary measure we recommend that you carry a crochet hook with yarn to save the work you have already done in case your knitting tools are surrendered at the checkpoint

Most of the items needed to pursue a Needlepoint project are permitted in your carry-on baggage or checked baggage with the exception of circular thread cutters or any cutter with a blade contained inside. These items cannot be taken through a security checkpoint. They must go in your checked baggage.

TNNA Show

The show itself was good. Much less crowded than other years with knitting much slower. I love to walk the show first to see what items stand out.

This year, there are collars and cuffs by L'Esprit de France (www.Lespritdefrance.com)
The collara and cuffs come in leopard, zebra, french country patterns and plaids. They are attached to your own jacket with velcro. They were fun and easy to do!

Some clever designers have designed cases for your Blackberry or IPOD. Another finisher can use your finished needlepoint as a flap for your computer bag.

There were beautifully needlepointed designs that were finished as jewelry. I'm working on mine tonight so I can have it converted into the pendant. This will be a quick project that makes a nice gift to yourself or others.

MAGGie & co has dolls that have changeable needlepointed outfits. The dolls are laminated and the outfits get attached through magnets. I want the whole series. There are 12 outfits plus a coat. Currently there are four or five dolls! We are going to develop a class to do six outfits in a year. I just loved it. I've order my doll with reddish hair!

Come see the pictures I've brought back.

The National Needlework Association Show

I arrived home early this morning (2:30am) after five days in San Diego. The first two days and three hours the next two days were devoted to classes: Kelly Clark & Janet Perry, John Waddell, Tink Boord-Dill. I learned some new beading techniques, diagonal laid fillings (you definitely need to do horizontal and vertical laid stitches first! I worked on two lovely canvases - one from Kelly Clark. Kelly's designs feature old-fashioned Santas plus lovely topiaries. She is also expanding into less holiday areas. She has a fantastic mermaid. Kelly Clark's trunk show will be at Ridgewood Needlepoint in June 2007!

The next class was Buckle UP taught by John Waddell. It's an adorable cowboy on a bucking horse. The two are framed by a horseshoe (check www.needlepointbroad.com for a picture. The owner is my twin sister). We did some fun techniques (a twisted cord for the reins). John will be coming to Ridgewood Needlepoint to teach in October 2008.

The technique classes were fun and the business classes were interesting.

I also attended a presentation by Kaffe Fassett. He's well know by knitters and quilters alike for his vibrant patterns. His color sense is excellent!

More later on the show itself.

Classes

We are in the process of developing our spring and summer formal classes. I'm thinking of a wild and crazy women class where we all work on Melissa Shirley's wacky women desings. I'm also intrigued by her stitching series. Other people want to take the City Snow which is a Maggie canvas of women bundled in coats on a grey winter's afternoon.

Let us know what you want to do. We can repeat Candy Village, Rockerfeller Center, add the above classes etc.

We are also starting to plan David McCaskill's classes for March 2007 and Deborah Wilson's classes for October 2007.

Rockerfeller Center Needlepoint Christmas stotcking

Yesterday, we had a great make-up class for the Rockerfeller Center Needlepoint Stocking. We had five stockings that were being worked on. It was incredible to see what a difference threads make. Three of the stockings were done in criss-cross hungarian. They look so different although in two of them the difference was that one stitcher varied the weights of the Kreinik braids used and the other did not. One stitcher used Kreinik 238 which gave the tree a much more green tinge. The criss-cross hungarian stockings looked much golder than the French Knotted one.

The trees done in french knots used Kreinik #307. But the dramatic differences were due to the use of three vs. two weights. Also, one stitcher used a dark green flair for the shading while the other french knotted the areas in overdyed Kreinik.

One stocking was French knotted including Coronet braid for the lights.

I hope to have pictures. It was very interesting to compare. Oh what a difference a thread and/or stitch can make.

TNNA Show

I'm getting ready to go to the TNNA show in San Diego. Although always fun to go to, the weather doesn't seem quite as attractive as 70 degrees in New York!

I'm beginning to get notices of new canvases and threads. A group of designers and teachers have put together a forum for the retailers to preview. It's also open to our customers to preview. It you are interested, please check out:http://www.yarnandthread.com. I'd love to know what you liked and also any other items you are looking for.

Although Christmas has just ended, stitchers need to think ahead. In December we received some lovely ornaments from Beau Geste. You needlepoint a small diamond and then attach the ceramic pin that is provided. The pins are very nice and include a polar bear, a bunny, candy canes, a heart (good for Valentine's Day, too), a snowflake, a package etc.

Come see them before they're all gone.

Rockerfeller Center-Needlepoint Christmas Stocking

The Rockerfeller Center Christmas stocking class are continuing to work on their trees. A few of us went in to see the Rockerfeller Center Christmas Tree in New York City last night. We wanted to compare it to our stockings. The tree was beautiful. It does photograph redder than it looks in person but the stocking still is a wonderful rendition.

We were also struck with how the buildings reflected the city lights.

The rink does look white not icy.

2007

I'm looking forward to an exciting 2007. The TNNA show is early this year and I will be leaving in a little over a week! It's always exciting to see what is new.

I've also had time to look at some of my own personal gifts this year. My husband gave me a second set of Amy's Keeping Me in Stitches so I could keep it at our summer home. I really enjoyed leafing through the familiar chapters and enjoyed relooking at some of the newer chapters. I particularly liked the one on gardens.

I'm working on the Rockerfeller Center Christmas stocking. The tree is finally finished. It was done with french knots using Kreinik #307 in #16 and #12 braid. I'm now working on the sky using Vineyard Silk S-530 (a dark blue with a metallic mixed in). Now I have to work on Candy Village.

Working on these two Christmas items just after Christmas reminds me that it's never too early to start for next year. Some customers have already been in to select the ornaments they will do for their families for Christmas 2007.

Finishing

We were very busy in December with all the finished items coming back. We received beautiful stockings, ornaments, pillows, purses etc. I will be adding a picture of Helen's Summer Gnome in the next week. I'm sorry I didn't have my camera to catch her excitement as she opened the UPS box! It is beautiful and hanging in the store.

Christmas Cookie Recipes from Needle Arts

I participated in a posting of Christmas cookie recipes with many other Needle Arts professionals. We all submitted favorite Christmas recipes which have been posted on one of three blogs:

http://www.thearmchairchef.com

http://ilovetobakecookies.com

http://ilovetobake.com

I cheated a little and used one from my mother-in-law, Ellie Aird. She always made these meringue cookies when we went out to visit. Several times she even made them at our house for us.

It's fun to see the favorite recipes of others. Look at the blogs and try the recipes. I can highly recommend mine!

Warning about Magnifiers

At a recent class, one of our customers told of her near disaster with her magnifier. She left the magnifier uncovered by a window. While she was out, the combination of the magnifier and the sun caused her canvas to smoke. The threads were actually burned away! It was her completed Stars piece. Fortunately, she was able to rip the threads in that area and restitch the one area.

But it is a warning. Do not leave your magnifier uncovered by the window. It's a safety hazard.

L'Ete or Summer Girl

At the 2005 American Needlepoint Guild Seminar, I won a second place for L'Ete. This beautiful canvas by Birds of a Feather is one of a series of four canvases. I was asked to do a stitch guide. I finally finished it and it is now available on our website or by calling Ridgewood Needlepoint directly. I'm pleased with the stitch guide. I'm including the picture of the canvas below! It was a fun project.

Christmas Is Coming

Christmas results in seeing the work of many people finished beautifully. We've had stockings returned and ornaments. One is more beautiful than the next one. Today we also had a class on finishing. Customers learned how to finish those ornaments thatdidn't make the deadlines.

In addition, for those who missed the class, we do have several items that could still be finished before Christmas. We have some small ornaments from Lee that can be put inside gold or silver metallic leather holders. The ornaments are sweet and still doable.

In addition, we have some luggage and key fobs that are already inserted in leather cases. They would also make great Christmas or Chanakah gifts.

Pixel Stitching

I took a course a couple of years ago at TNNA on pixel shading. I am going to be teaching it at EGA today. I'm very excited about the class since I made the big jump into technology. The presentation is in powerpoint and I'm able to project it onto a screen from my computer.

Yesterday was the first time I used this technology at the store. It was a little chaotic since the screen didn't fit where I thought it would. But it was well worth it. But it was so much easier to see the charts on a screen then on a flip chart.

It's not my Grandmother's needlepoint any more!

Beautiful Christmas Stocking

Jane's finished Christmas stocking came into the shop this week. Jane stitched the stocking all in basketweave using a variety of different threads. Jane stitches beautifully. This stocking is aa perfect example of how to use basketweave and specialized threads to do the job.

Rockerfeller Center Christmas Stocking Class

The class met again last week and we worked on the sky and waterfall. Two people have started to work on the project on a cyber basis. It will be fun to see how this works out. It's so interesting to see how the different thread and stitches make each stocking different.

Pixel Stitching

Bergen County EGA has asked me to teach a class on shading. The class will be primarily about Pixel shading but we will also review other types of shading. I'm also finished with the kit project which is a pretty leaf by Beau Geste. It's so perfect for this time of year as most leaves are falling.

Laid Fillings Class

The first Laid Fillings class is finished. At least one participant has finished her project and another is one the last quadrant. The canvas is fun to do and is individualized because he member picks their colors. I'm looking forward to teaching it again in January.

Judaic Trunk Show

We finished putting up the Judaic Trunk Show this week. We had hoped to have it for October but S & S is now being distributed by Julia's. Actually, it worked out better for us since we have both designers Judaic canvases on the walls. One customer said she had never seen so many Judaic themed canvases! It's quite impressive. We have them until just before Thanksgiving.

Sharon G Kimono Class

We just finished the Kimono Class with Sharon G. It was a very relaxing but informative class. Sharon's model is even more beautiful than the picture! We had twelve stitchers, most of us local but one came from Williamsburg, VA. She and Sharon have been emailing for a while but hadn't actually met.



The stitch guide is fantastic; it included wonderful detailed pictures of the model. It will make finishing the canvas so much easier. We were also lucky enough to see some of her canvases. People loved the Tuscan Cove;the Hearts and Ribbons in the oblong and squarein either red or white. Her geometrics were also snapped up. It was a lovely day.


Sharon O brought in this great bookends that were finished locally. These were Beau Geste designs. What fun!

Marlowe, The Shop Dog

In the past two months, I've been bringing Marlowe, my standard poodle puppy to the store. He's really been pretty well behaved. In fact, he seems to love threads! I can't promise that he will always be there but he will be a frequent visitor.

Rockerfeller Center Christmas Stocking

Our class for the Rockerfeller Center Christmas Stocking has met twice and will be meeting again in two weeks. Participants are beginning to come in with their Christmas tree stitched. Its always fun to see works in progress but I am particularly enjoying seeing the same canvas stitched different ways. It clearly demonstrates what a difference threads and stitches make. I'm even thinking of doing this class as cyber class for those far away who would like to participate. Hopefully, I'll be able to get pictures of works in progress!

Finished Items

The arrival of packages filled with finished items is always one of the highpoints of any day. All of us at Ridgewood Needlepoint love seeing the finished product. In the past few weeks, I've really enjoyed seeing Ellen's framed witches, Nicky's baby cake, Judy's purse and Amanda's santa.



At this point, the vast majority of Christmas finishing has been sent off to the finishers. But we are beginning to see the finished products trickle in. We don't always have the camera at the store but sometimes we are lucky. I have included some pictures of finished items and plan to take more pictures as the holiday items come in.

We have a lot to look forward to in the next two months.

ANG Seminar

I can't believe I've been back from seminar for over a month. I did have a great time, I was particularly intrigued with Sandra Magg Reddell's class on the lynx. I learned a lot about shading!

At the seminar shop they couldn't keep stitch oriented tiles in stock. The participants lovee the handmade tiles that say: Stitch; Knit or Needlepoint. We were able to get some for the store. See them on our web site.

I missed the live auction but did manage to get some wonderful items from the silent auction. And I'm looking forward to next year's seminar in Baltimore!

New Stitch Guides

I've been promising myself that I would have stitch guides completed for several projects. Although it took longer than I thought, I'm pleased that I have completed three stitch guides for kits for Ridgewood Needlepoint.. On our website, we will be offering a Halloween Cat kit, Toes Up kit and The Stable Kit. The Halloween Cat by Amanda Lawford is charming as a candy bag. The design is on #13 mesh. We used fun threads and stitches to highlight the fuzziness of the cat. We also used composite stitches for the large pumpkin. I noticed that Jane from Chilly Hollow said that it was the right time to start for next Halloween.

In New Jersey, most beach towns require a beach tag for access. So we designed a canvas that could be framed with either cork or wire for securing the tage. The sunbathers are either watching the sailboats and motorboat go by; or in the ferryboat version, they're watching the ferry. Obviously, they've been out in the sun too long. Look at their toes. It's a fun canvas to stitch. And if people get started quickly, it could be finished for the summer.

Finally, we are offering The Stable. In Ridgewood, New Jersey, the Stable is a historic building that serves as the headquarters for the parks department. Our version is needlepointed in beautiful threads and stitches and dated. We are only going to offer this for a limited time as part of a series of sights in New Jersey.

Go to our website to see the pictures. They should be up soon!

Stars Exhibit

The Stars exhibit was great. We had ten finished Stars pieces hanging and two more in process. Tony Minieri explained how he developed the piece and shared stitching tips with the group. It's the largest number of finished pieces he has seen together since the original class. Below I have attached a picture of the class with Tony and the various Stars pieces. of the reception and the class participants.

Stars Exhibit

Above is the picture of my framed Stars piece. I am thrilled with it and am looking forward to seeing all of the pieces finished. As we were stitching, we were all aware of how different the design looked in different colorways. Now, seeing them finished, it's even more interesting. Today

In fact, three of the completed granite pieces are hanging in the store. Even they look different because of the framing. In addition, we have seven completed pieces hanging in the store and are expecting at least 5 more tomorrow.

Eileen

Tucson ANG

Eileen Aird and Cathryn Curia will both be attending the ANG in Tucson. Cathryn will be taking one of Carol Lake's classes, Eileen will be taking Sandra Magg Redell's bobcat class. They will both be in the Southwest stitches class.

Eileen has submitted several pieces for the exhibit. Two were finished just in time to send them to the finisher and get them back before the ANG deadline. I'm thrilled with both of them! I'm including a picture of each. One is a stand-up camel by Rebecca Wood and the other is a Christmas stocking,The Entourage, by Liz Dillon/Tapestry Tent.


I loved doing the camel because he had such character and I enjoyed making him look like suitable transportation for a king.



The stocking took a long time to do - I worked on it intermittently for 7 years. I would get stuck and then put it down. But I love the way it came out. I had help from lots of people including David McCaskill, Anne Strapp, Meredith Barnhill, Tony Minieri, Beth Robertson and Suzanne Howren. The finisher did an outstanding job.

Looking Forward to Stars Exhibit

We've had 14 stitchers working on Tony Minieri's Stars for over a year. Tony has graciously agreed to meet the class members on September 5. Three people have their canvases already framed and three more have finished the piece. The rest of us are frantically trying to finish our canvases before then! Ridgewood Needlepoint will be able to display the pieces for a week from September 5 - September 12th! I will try to get pictures but don't know how well they will come out.

It's been an incredible class. Virtually everyone says that their stitching has improved dramatically. Also, it's been fascinating to see how the different colors change how the squares look. Cathryn will teach the class again this year probably starting in November one Sunday a month.