Celebration of Needlework--Early May

I hope everyone is doing well.  I am finally able to sneak onto the computer now that school has ended.  It seems like the last two weeks have been a blur with all of the last minute concerts, presentations, award ceremonies and playoffs. I have enjoy every minute of them but I certainly am looking forward to some relaxation and down time this summer.  

I wanted to share with you the classes that I took at Celebrations.  These are pics of the models and I am slowly working my way through my own stitched versions.  Slow being the operative word of course.

The first is Jeannette Douglass' Bird Box. If you haven't taken a class with Jeannette you must.  She is a HOOT.  She also has lots of little helpful finishing techniques that make you think, Now why didn't I think of that.

Next is Busy Bee Pouch.  If the title is incorrect I apologize.  It is a darling felted wool pouch with a needlebook and strawberry pincushion that tucks safely inside your pouch.  Barbara Jackson was the instructor/designer on this sweet piece and she was lots of fun.

Next I took two classes with Jackie Du Plessis.  The Unplayed Piano Etui and The Secret Garden.  I have admired these on several blogs and decided to take them both as I couldn't decide which to take. Jackie is lovely and I enjoyed both of the classes.  The construction of the piano will be a challenge but that is what I love about classes.  Working outside of your comfort zone.

The Secret Garden is COMPLETELY STITCHED.  There isn't something on it that isn't stitched.  I am slowly working on this one but I do find the stitching very rhythmic and soothing.  This is a very special piece to Jackie and I am so happy she shared it with us.

Lastly,  This is a special stitching companion designed by Pam Reed of Olde Colonial Designs.  She taught it at the Dyeing to stitch retreat last year but I was on the opposite track so when she offered it again at Celebrations I HAD to take it. I have finished most of the stitching. Just need to add charms and finish constructing it.  I love Pam's designs for their simplicity.  She uses specialty stitches to add dimension and texture and it produces a wonderful piece.

I also took a Sewing Clamp class with Maureen Appleton.  Anyone know her??  Miss Stitch Over 1 on 40ct herself.  Well I couldn't resist this fabulous sewing clamp that she was offering and wanted to know just how she does it--Stitching over 1 on 40ct.  I enjoyed the class but do find that over 1 on 40 does strain the eyes a bit so I am saving this project for sunny days and lots of natural lighting.

So,  I know many of you are saying "Wow, that's alot of classes!"  Well, my intention was that it would keep me out of the shopping mall which I always lose control in but ladies it did NOT work. I found lots of fabulous goodies in the mall too!!  I get caught up in the excitement of being surrounded by all the stitching goodies and I also have friends a.k.a. enablers who point things out just in case I missed them. 

My next post I will share my wonderful purchases and a puppy update.  Until then, Happy Stitching!

Spring has sprung

Like most, I have been greatly anticipating spring.  I blinked and it's gone.  The temps were in the 80's followed by some rain so it really feels like summer is upon us.  I spent quite a bit of time gardening this week and now I can sit back and enjoy.  Here is a progress pic of Kathy Barricks Rebecca.  It's a lot of gray so to keep my stitching mojo going I started and finished Blackbird Designs Full Glory.  It is stitched on confederate gray using the recommended fibers.  Fun fast stitch

The news on the puppy front is not good. Two weeks ago she started with a high fever and lameness in her limbs. She was in a great deal of pain so she was started on two pain meds and antibiotics.  They have diagnosed her with a growth disorder called HOD but I have my doubts because her progress is so incredibly slow.  I am giving her extra loving but I hope that doesn't lead to a spoiled pooch.  I want to thank all of you who read my blog and spend a bit of your time with me.  I know I am not a consistent blogger but I do like to share my stitching and hear your thoughts.  Are any of you working on Blackbird SAL?  I am itching to start it but am trying to work through some of my WIPs.  Until next time, Happy Stitching!