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!
