SYHO

Needle and ThREAD: Stitching for Literacy

2011-03-21T12:10:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check out the Stitching for Literacy Blog today to see how my son (he's the redhead standing in the far back middle of the photo) got me to stitch bookmarks for his entire class in 3 days.

While you are there you should check out Jen's bookmark designs for sale and support a FABULOUS lady and a FABULOUS cause!

Country Garden Stitchery ~ Freebie Friday

2011-03-18T07:26:00.000-07:00

I know we are only a few days past St. Patty's Day but I saw this pattern from Country Garden Stitchery and I thought it was perfect to make for the girls to celebrate Spring.

Not only is is a quick stitch but it can be easily converted to frame, stitched bag (shown above), pillows, wall hangings...there are so many options.

I am going to create a love book for each of the girls (to be honest, I am going to do it for the little guy too but I am sure he'd be embarrassed I wrote about it on the blog). Our love books are almost full and I'd love a new way to pass notes and fun stories to the kids.

The best part? The pattern is FREE ~ LOVE the Country Garden Stitchery! They have a great array of unique patterns for cross stitch and embroidery.

You can check out their blog HERE or join their Facebook page HERE.

I'm going to give myself a week to wind down from the St. Patty's Day hub bub (it's a big deal in my house, the big guy and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary this year and my family is as Irish as it gets) and then I am getting to work on this!

Wordless Wednesday ~ Puffin and Company

2011-03-16T05:01:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check out the Puffin and Company website HERE to find more amazing needlework accessories!

5 Fun Facts about Erin Dekker Ratjes of Myrtle Grace Motifs

2011-03-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

5 Fun Facts about Erin Dekker Ratjes of Myrtle Grace Motifs

1. The work crew behind the production of our patterns… are Erin’s grandparents… whose mothers the company was named for – Myrtle McCutcheon and Grace Dekker

2. Official anniversary of Myrtle Grace is August 2^nd – Erin’s Birthday

3. Myrtle Grace Motif’s first pattern was Flying Mom’s Geese as a Mother’s day gift to her mom.

4. People and things from daily life make it into artwork, Willow Wood (Drive) Lane is the street Erin lives on, Rusty Bucket – Rusty is Erin’s dog, Montague Stars – place where we love to stay in Michigan.

5. Myrtle Grace is a family project. Erin’s mom LuAnn does all the sewing projects, her dad Ken does the wood working and engineering, and her husband Andy is moral support and everything else. All in the family help with design names. (Ken is responsible for Ham in a Can.)

To find out more about Erin and Myrtle Grace Motifs be sure to check out their website and Facebook page

5 Fun Facts about Tracy Horner of Ink Circles

2011-03-11T06:03:00.000-08:00

5 Fun Facts about Tracy Horner of Ink Circles

“Ink Circles” was the wording my husband used to generically refer to the mandalas, Celtic knots, and other geometric/symmetrical things that I drew and painted.

I’m one of few women who have been out to sea in a naval submarine (Just for a day, and I was sick as a dog until we submerged.

I don’t go out without my doodle-journal and at least six different types of pens & pencils. You never know when inspiration is going to str

I showed my dog how to use twitter and he really likes it. @HeyToaster

I say that I hate cute things. I don’t design cute things. I hate frilly lace and pink. But I secretly like Hello Kitty and the similar Japanese cuteness “kawaii”.

To learn more about Ink Circles, be sure to check out the Ink Circles Website, Blog, ETSY Shop, Twitter and Facebook page

Wordless Wednesday ~ Designs by Lisa

2011-03-09T07:11:00.000-08:00

Meet Up Monday ~ Ship's Manor

2011-03-07T04:15:00.000-08:00

Have you heard about this fabulous new company lead by Eric Shipley? His mom taught him how to stitch when he was just a kid and now he has turned his love of needlework into a design company! With a new and fresh perspective brought to needlework I am sure you're gonna love his designs as much as we do!

To find out more about Eric and his designs you can visit the Ship's Manor website HERE, their Facebook page HERE, the Ship's Manor Twitter feed HERE and his Blog HERE. Happy Stitching!

Freebie Friday ~ LTS Bookmark for Stitching for Literacy

2011-03-04T09:00:00.000-08:00

Have you joined Loose Thread Stitchers yet? If you read our blog and follow us on Facebook ~ you should really check out the website. Ever want to find an out of town shop? Find a list of designers? On the LTS website you can ask stitching questions, win prizes and find what you need when you need it. Be sure to check it out......

And Yes, no worries, we have a LTS bookmark freebie for you to help you get inspired to stitch for the 2011 Stitching for Literacy Campaign lead by Funk and Weber Designs. It kicks off March 17th and is an amazing way to share your love of stitching with the next generation!

Click HERE for the LTS Bookmark Freebie.....and be sure to check out the Loose Thread Stitchers Blog HERE where we will be featuring another fun freebie ~ a Spring name tag.

Wordless Wednesday ~ Primitive Needle

2011-03-02T05:04:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we learned that Lisa Roswell, of the Primitive Needle, died when her car was swept off the road by a flooding river as she drove to work at the North Coast Cancer Center. She was an amazing designer and she will be missed. If you would care to leave a message for her family, you can leave a comment on her blog HERE. Below you will find a small sample of her amazing work.

Meet Up Monday ~ The Creative Finisher

2011-02-28T03:32:00.000-08:00

Morning All! I'd like to introduce you to Veronica Buckwalter AKA The Creative Finisher. Ronnie is an AMAZING finisher and has worked with designers and myself (she is our SYHO finisher) on new releases as well as finishing designs for Just Cross Stitch Magazine, The Gift of Stitching and Just Cross Stitch Ornament Edition. Here's a few examples of Ronnie's fabulous finishes.

Freebie Friday ~ SYHO Designer Encyclopedia

2011-02-25T07:45:00.000-08:00

Have you stitched the SYHO Designer Encyclopedia? If not here's what you are missing....

SYHO Designer Encyclopedia Cover

SYHO Designer Encyclopedia Spine

SYHO Designer Encyclopedia Inside Cover

Homespun Elegance Ltd ~ The Heart is the Spirit of the Home

Designs By Lisa ~ Purr Like You Mean It

Blue Ribbon Designs ~ Established with Love

CherryWood Design Studios ~ That Kind of Stitcher

La-D-Da ~ Tis Better

Trail Creek Farm ~ Endless Love

Myrtle Grace Motifs ~ Home is Where Your Leaves Are

monsterbubbles ~ Twitter

Rosewood Manor ~ My Two Ducks

Did you know when you purchase all 12 designs you will receive the cover chart and the finishing instructions FREE? Be sure to contact your LNS or ONS to order your SYHO designs and ask them to contact Colleen (at) LooseThreadStitchers (dot) com to have the SYHO Designer Encyclopedia Displayed in their shop.

Veronica Buckwalter of The Creative Finisher has generously provided us with the FABULOUS finishing instructions for the SYHO Designer Encyclopedia. Ronnie is a MUST for all your finishing needs, she is AMAZING and we will be showcasing her skills in next Wednesday's Wordless Wednesday so be sure to check it out!

Wordless Wednesday ~ Stitchy Foods

2011-02-24T07:56:00.000-08:00

Craft Gossip

Fluffyland Craft & Sewing Blog

Irresistible Desserts

Raggedy Rambles

Meet Up Monday ~ Lila's Studio

2011-02-21T06:24:00.000-08:00

I'd like to introduce you to Lila Umstead of Lila's Studio. A fairly new counted thread designer, Lila's work has already been published in Just Cross Stitch and her line of traditional kitchen stitches (shown below) are a fabulous addition to any home. Be sure to check out Lila's website HERE and her Etsy shop HERE.

Freebie Friday ~ CherryWood Design Studios

2011-02-18T05:04:00.000-08:00

This is the story of how 2 friends ended a 2 day road trip: They shopped all around NorthWest Iowa... talked, laughed, ate way too much fast-food & decided to start a serious venture that combined their love of stitching, an attention to detail & the will to say - we can do this?
We hope you like it - Cathy & Theresa

OK - that is seriously how this all started... Click HERE for a bit more about this fun partnership!

Here's a look at a few FABULOUS FREEBIES from CherryWood Design Studios.

Click HERE to download the charts for the designs shown above. Click HERE to follow CherryWood Designs on Facebook. Click HERE to view more Freebie Designs on the Loose Thread Stitchers Blog.

Wordless Wednesday ~ St. Patricks Day Designs

2011-02-16T05:51:00.000-08:00

Heart in Hand Needleart

Blue Ribbon Designs

Bent Creek

Shepherd's Bush

Pickle Barrel Designs

Meet Up Monday ~ With My Needle

2011-02-14T04:13:00.000-08:00

Have you heard you can get insider info from Ellen @ her With My Needle blog? Ellen shares her journey thru life, getting ready for Nashville, new releases and much more.

Be sure to follow her as she is blogging about her newest release Miss Trenner's Needlework Academy. A fabulous new release that shops already have on pre-order. Be sure to call your shop ASAP as they are a limited edition.

The nine shown here were a bit damaged in shipping and Ellen is considering offering them as part of a blog giveaway in March so mark your calendars! For more info about With My Needle be sure to check out her website HERE.

Freebie Friday ~ Trail Creek Farm

2011-02-11T05:03:00.000-08:00

Trail Creek Farm ~ creates a growing collection of limited edition cross stitch designs and products. using beautiful interior design fabrics, our products are sewn by local fabricators who live and work in our
community. Susan Ebright, trail creek farm's designer, has a degree in interior design and is a professional member of ASID. Susan works from her studio in lyons, kansas with her chickens, her puppy and her pretty family.

Here are a few examples of the FABULOUS Trail Creek Farm Freebies. Click HERE for the charts.

Wordless Wednesday ~ Valentine Crafts

2011-02-09T04:52:00.000-08:00

I Sometimes Craft Myself ~ My Little Love Buttons

Bits and Scraps of My Life ~ Cupcake Liner Wreath

Random Thoughts of a Supermom ~ Valentine Tea Towels

Frame Fanatic ~ Hand Heart Valentine

Bliss Bloom ~ Quilled Felted Hearts

Meet Up Monday ~ Funk and Weber

2011-02-07T07:09:00.000-08:00

News and nonsense about needlework, reading, writing, life in Alaska, and any other ding-dong thing that strikes my fancy. From project tutorials to books on my nightstand to gardening to travel to sourdough bread and waffles to wildlife and photography--it's all fair game. "Focus Schmocus" are the magic words here.

Freebie Friday ~ Ink Circles

2011-02-04T08:47:00.000-08:00

Ink Circles is a company that produces original Celtic and Mandala based cross stitch patterns by artist Tracy Horner. Tracy also creates amazing note cards and other stithcing accessories in her ETSY shop, you can click HERE to find more of Tracy's work.

Click HERE for the Breast Cancer Awareness Complimentary Chart and HERE for a few more fun freebies from Ink Circles.

Worldless Wednesday ~ SYHO Valentine Designs

2011-02-02T08:35:00.000-08:00

Country Graden Sitchery

Glendon Place

Ink Circles

Homespun Elegance

CherryWood Design Studio

Trail Creek Farm

Rosewood Manor

Myrtle Grace Motifs

Monday Blog Roll

2011-01-31T07:21:00.000-08:00

Here's a few Fabulous blogs we follow that you might want to check out. Do you have a blog? Be sure to leave us a link in the comment section and we might pick you to be a featured blogger in the future! Be sure to check out the Loose Thread Stitchers Blog HERE for more blog fun!

Needlework Professional Links

http://needleprint.blogspot.com/

The Needleprints Blog showcases links to courses, expeditions’, courses, collections, etc.

http://dmc-threads.com/

All things DMC

http://blackbird-designs.blogspot.com/

Blackbirds blog takes you on the journey from initial idea to finished designs with a bit of baking to boot!

http://libertyneedlework.blogspot.com/

Primitive Designs and fun freebies

http://mdesigns-crossstitchville.blogspot.com/

M Designs Blog about designs and life

Stitcher Links

http://beckysc.blogspot.com/

Fabulous Stitcher blog full of amazing photos and finishes

http://madetotreasure.blogspot.com/

Featured Stitcher on Nordic Needle

http://life-in-stitches.blogspot.com/

Blogging about life, stitches and recipes

http://peacefulthreads.blogspot.com/

Sharing about life, stitching, friends and family

http://shaysstitching.blogspot.com/

Stitchin’ My Life Away ~ Love it!

Freebie Friday

2011-01-28T08:15:00.000-08:00

How fabulous are these Freebies from Designs By Lisa? Be sure to check out Kathy's newsletter to find the latest ande greatest from Designs By Lisa.

SAVOR ~ giveaway

2011-01-27T08:52:00.000-08:00

Be sure to check out the Loose Thread Stitchers Blog today to enter to win 2 tickets to SAVOR in Philly next week. I know it's not stitching related but you gotta eat!

Wordless Wednesday ~ SamSarah Design Studio

2011-01-26T06:34:00.000-08:00

Ok So I know today is Wordless Wednesday but I am making an exception today. There is NEWS in the cross stitch industry. A few weeks ago Patti (SamSarah Design Studio) sold her %age stake in Just Another Button Company to focus on her counted thread and quilt designs. So here's Patti's newest creations and a bit of info about how SamSarah Design Studio came about...

Hip Hop Doubles Series: Hip Hop Moo
Doubles charts contain both the cross stitch and hand applique versions.
Stitched on Weeks Dye Works 20 count Mocha linen with Caron Collection Watercolours embellished with JABC buttons and placed in an East Side Mouldings frame.
Wool version is created with Weeks Dye Works over-dyed felted wool.

Sadie Stuart is a fictional girl from the early 1800’s and this is her first needlework. Acorn Marking Sampler is stitched on Weeks Dye Works Straw overdyed gingham using The Gentle Art and Weeks Dye Works floss and lots of specialty stitches which are illustrated in the chart. Frame from East Side Mouldings.

Sadie is releasing her second sampler at the Nashville Needlework Market in February.

Introducing Fresh Mesh!

Winter Snowman Tote and Evergreen clutch are stitched directly on Walker mesh bags using three strands of floss from The Gentle Art and Weeks Dye Works. This is a fun stitch on uneven weave nylon mesh that is ready to use when you finish stitching.
NEW! Spring Tote and Clutch releasing at the Nashville Needlework Market.

A Dozen Buzzin’s series of twelve charts stitched individually or all in a row as above. Final chart was released December 2010. Stitched on Weeks Dye Works 30 count Straw linen with Crescent Colours over-dyed cotton floss, embellished with JABC buttons and placed in a frame from East Side Mouldings.

How SamSarah Design Studio started:

A degree in Graphic Design from Iowa State University started my creative career working as an art director and graphic designer all over the United States. After Sam and Sarah were born, I was lucky to be able to stay home with my babies. But I still wanted a bit of creative work. Free-lancing as a quilt designer for a couple of book publishers and magazines fit my schedule. And after the articles were published, I sold the quilts at a wonderful quilt shop in St. Charles, Missouri.

Later with another pre-school mom, Just Another Button Company was formed, and that company expanded beyond our expectations. When a major cross-stitch designer, who used lots of our buttons, became too ill to publish, we knew we had to replace that demand to keep our button makers working. In 1999, I started designing charts with lots of advice and encouragement from our local shop owner, and of course, using lots of JABC buttons. SamSarah Design Studio seemed like the perfect name since I was saving any profits for my kid’s college tuition.

On December 23, 2011, I sold my half of the button company to the co-owner. Now I have time for the things I truly love: my husband and children, friends, lots of stitching and quilting, and when the weather warms up, I’ll finally be able to get outside and put a little order in our garden (but not too much order - I like wildflowers!)

To find out more about SamSarah Design Studio be sure to check out the Loose Thread Stitchers blog HERE, read about SamSarah on Patti's Blog HERE and follow SamSarah on Facebook HERE.

Monday Blog Roll

2011-01-24T05:22:00.000-08:00

Here's a few Fabulous blogs we follow that you MUST check out. Do you have a blog? We'd love to see it! Be sure to leave us a link in the comment section and we might pick you to be a featured blogger in the future!

Fab Designer Blogs

By The Bay NeedleArt

inside number twenty

Just Another Button Company

Fab Stitcher Blogs

A Cross Stitch Nut

I Love Cross Stitch

Notes from Blue Hen Hollow

Stitching for Literacy ~ Blogger Puzzle Line 7

2011-01-21T04:48:00.001-08:00

March 17 – April 28 Celebrate reading and stitching! Join participating independent needlework shops, guild, and Web communities, and stitch a bookmark that will be donated to a library or school during Children’s Book Week to reward reading accomplishments.
It’s a snap.
Step 1: Stitch a bookmark (or two, or three…). Any hand-stitched bookmark counts:

any pattern (one you purchase or one you make up)
on any ground (perforated paper, aida, linen, canvas, etc.)
with any fibers (cotton, silk, metallics, beads, etc.)
using any needlework technique (cross stitch, blackwork, hardanger, etc.)

If you're participating in the Needle and ThREAD: Stitching for Literacy New Blogger Puzzle Contest,

here's line 7:

H W F V L M S U V M W M X C S N Q S A M,

This contest is open to everyone. If this is the first time you're hearing about it, go take a look.

Step 2: Drop off or mail your bookmark to a participating needlework shop, guild, or community between March 17th and April 28th. (Or any time of year, most participants collect bookmarks year-round.)
Want to do more?

Participate in Needle and Thread: Stitching for Literacy events at your local needlework shop and/or library.
Teach someone how to stitch a bookmark.
Start a Read-and-Stitch Club.
Spread the word about the program to your friends and family, on your blog, and in your newsletter.
Participate on the Needle and Thread: Stitching for Literacy blog.
Read! And tell us on the blog what you’re reading.

Freebie Friday ~ Rosewood Manor

2011-01-14T07:14:00.000-08:00

Here we go again. The snow hasn't really let up here in Philly so I began searching for another Christmas Project.....Rosewood Manor has quite a few on her website for her fans and they are LOVELY. If you are into alphabets, Reindeer, and specialty stitches you should really check these out!

Click HERE to download the chart and Happy Stitching!

Cookies Anyone? by Myrtle Grace Motifs

2011-01-10T07:24:00.000-08:00

Looking for a new winter recipe? Erin from Myrtle Grace Motifs posted this recipe on her blog last week and I think it is the PERFECT way to step out of your comfort zone and make a new cookie. With pictures like this (above) how can you not try it?

Freebie Friday ~ Blue Ribbon Designs

2011-01-07T06:27:00.000-08:00

I was just surfing the internet in my PJ's since it is snowing here in the Philadelphia Area and the kids are already out back making snow angles and found this FABULOUS new freebie from Blue Ribbon Designs. It is perfect for this time of year and it looks like a quick to stitch project.

I've had visions of learning to sew this year and think this would look so cute made into a pillow, a wall hanging, or the cover page to a photo album. Not sure what way I am going to go with this one but I'm excited to find a new project that I can start today using stash.

Click HERE to download the chart and Happy Stitching!

Wordless Wednesday ~ monsterbubbles

2011-01-05T07:23:00.000-08:00

Be sure to check out the Loose Thread Stitchers blog HERE for more fabulous designs by monsterbubbles.

25% OFF SALE

2011-01-03T06:41:00.000-08:00

is having an Anniversary Sale

From now until the close of business Friday, Jan 7th
take 25% off your entire order

Sale includes special orders and items that have not been transferred over to the new site yet.

Discounts will be reflected on the checkout page.

All Orders will receive a free gift- a great little pad that will help keep your beads from sliding all over the place.

Karen also has a FABULOUS Frequent Buyer Program. For every $150 you spend at Wasatch (no need for you to track the $ amount, Karen has it covered) you'll receive a $10 coupon towards your next order.

Here's a few new releases Karen has in stock now

~ Here's the MUST have links for all things Wasatch Needlecraft ~

Wasatch Needlecraft Website

Wasatch Needlecraft E-mail

Wasatch Needlecraft Facebook Page

Last day of 2010

2010-12-31T07:28:00.000-08:00

What will you accomplish today? I am trying to decide between starting a small project tonight once the kids go to bed and finishing it at midnight or continuing a project that needs to be finished by March. What will you be stitching today?

20% off or more at the Needle and I

2010-12-30T05:35:00.000-08:00

..........SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE..........

****************************************

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION SALE

Thursday, December 30: 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Friday, December 31: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Saturday, January 1: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Sunday, January 2: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Save 20% on all in-stock, regular-priced merchandise.

* Discount does not apply to special orders.

Lots of hand-painted needlepoint canvases and selected picture frames are 35% off.

Come see our sale tables with lots of bargains!

Selected Stitched Models are for sale and are priced as marked.

We cleared out bookracks and have hundreds of chart books at ½ price!

If you live too far away or if the weather makes it impossible for you to come to the sale,

e-mail us your list and we'll gather what we have in stock and mail it to you!

****************************************

The Needle and I

1649 N. Alpine Rd.

Rockford, IL 61107

1-815-227-1234 or 1-800-316-1940

Email: theneedleandi@sbcglobal.net

Websites: www.needleandi.com

www.fromnancysneedle.com

Wordless Wednesday ~ Country Garden Stitchery

2010-12-29T04:11:00.000-08:00

Be sure to check out the Country Garden Stitchery website HERE and follow them on Facebook or view their Etsy shop for more FABULOUS finds!

Myrtle Grace Motifs needs your help!

2010-12-27T07:14:00.000-08:00

Come join their Facebook page and vote on what to call this new little creation. Does she look like a Percy or a Penny? I love MGM's. They create their designs in both counted cross stitch and punch needle. I am especially into this design since my MIL collects Elephants and I've never seen one that I could stitch for her.....only 5 months till her B-day. I am thinking I will get this all kited up and take it to the hospital with me when I visit Bryn in the NICU. I can keep my hands busy while I spend some time with her.

Be sure to check out the Myrtle Grace Motifs Blog......I just found a great recipe for left over watermelon rind. I had no idea! This will be perfect once the watermelon are ready to be picked from the garden next year.

Christmas Favorites

2010-12-24T04:20:00.000-08:00

Here's a few of our favorite Christmas Designs

CherryWood Design Studios

Blue Ribbon Designs

Designs By Lisa

Wordless Wednesday ~ Trail Creek Farm

2010-12-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

Wordless Wednesday featuring

Trail Creek Farm

Heart Healthy Recipe by Myrtle Grace Motifs

2010-12-21T02:29:00.000-08:00

Erin loves soup – especially this Quick Minestrone Soup. She and her mom used to make this when Erin's dad was away and we’d sit with some big thick oatmeal bread and dip it into the soup and be all warm and cozy! Erin suggests you double the veggies. Makes for great leftovers, is almost better the next day!

Quick Minestrone Soup

1 cup carrots, thinly sliced
1 small zucchini, sliced
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1/2 cup celery
1 large can (48 oz) chicken broth
1 cup water
1 or 2 chicken bullion cubes
1 can (15 1/2 oz) dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup medium shell or ditalini pasta, uncooked
1 cup frozen or canned Italian-style green beans
1 tsp. dried oregano leaves
1 tsp. dried basil leaves
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated.

Combine all ingredients in Dutch oven except parmesan cheese. Bring to a boil, reduce heat. Cover; simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are crisp tender. Grade parmesan cheese and sprinkle over each serving.

Be sure to check out Erin's fabulous designs HERE

Wordless Wednesday ~ Ink Circles

2010-12-15T07:10:00.000-08:00

Wordless Wednesday ~ Ink Circles

Ok just a few words....Be sure to checkout the Loose Thread Stitchers Blog today for more amazing work by Tracy Horner of Ink Circles.

Kranberry Kupboard

2010-12-14T06:18:00.000-08:00

Be sure to check out the Loose Thread Stitchers Blog today to find out more about the Kranberry Kupboard, their AMAZING 25%-50% off sale this week and their Fabulous Friday night stitching events. LOVE LOVE LOVE this shop!

Wordless Wednesday ~ SYHO Designers

2010-12-08T06:02:00.000-08:00

Glendon Place

Cherrywood Design Studios

Country Garden Stitchery

Karen Kluba of Rosewood Manor

2010-12-06T04:31:00.000-08:00

#N-004. MY TWO DUCKS

The July SYHO Chart

This piece is a single part of a 12 chart series. Collect all 12 and receive free finishing instructions and a FREE cover graph to create your own SYHO Designer Encyclopedia.

THIS IS A KIT (1 pin in each kit) Stitch initialed winged butterfly using black floss and Dinky-Dyes hand-dyed floss on 40ct. gauze; then insert into provided glass frame, add the beads, unique 2 sided paper and extras to the large pin and you have a beautiful, one of a kind piece of jewelry to wear! Everything is included in the kit, except a suggested 4” hoop and magnifier.

Instructions include a “Be Creative! idea for stitching all the initialed butterflies into a sampler. Because of beads, paper, hand-dyed floss and initials, NO TWO KITS ARE ALIKE!

Quaker motifs with flowers were used to create this unique sampler design. The design size is 170 X 270 stitches and uses Picture This Plus 28 ct. Cashel hand-dyed “Valor” color linen and Rosewood Manor’s new collection (RMC-#2) of Valdani hand-dyed, color-fast, 3 -strand balls of floss. The 14 page booklet includes 10 Bonus Designs, including one complete alphabet that is used to personalize the piece, but can also be stitched as it own unique sampler.

This 10 page booklet shows instructions for creating a bellpull or stitch the flowers--tulips, roses and iris--and frame them separately. The individual pieces are stitched on Zweigart 28 ct. Antique White fabric and are 120 X 120 stitches each and are stitched using DMC floss. The bellpull is stitched on Picture This Plus (www.picturethisplus.com) , 32 ct. “Heritage” color, hand-dyed linen, uses Week Dye Works and DMC floss, and is 120 X 380 stitches. The bellpull has an extra border motif for the bottom and uses an Images Stitchery Design bellpull hanger custom made for this piece (sold separately by Images Stitchery Designs www.imagesstitcherydesign.com). All finished pieces are shown on the covers. The booklet also includes 3 Bonus Charts and lots of “Be Creative!” Ideas.

This design was inspired Kathy de Zwart who stitches models for me. Kathy loves to stitch using specialty stitches. She sent me an adaptaion of a quilt block called “Trip Around The World.” Kathy also had an idea for a Christmas Ornament and a "Welcome" (shown is the Irish word for welcome-Failte) and I took it from there to create the alphabet. Kathy stitched all of these pieces! They are amazing!

This 34 page book, shows in detail how to work the stitches in the piece, gives you extra designs such as a “Welcome Around The World” block, a small alphabet block; both can be added under the Trip Around The World block to create mini samplers, plus loads of “Be Creative!” Ideas, such as “Welcome”, Merry Christmas”, “Happy Holidays” and wedding or anniversary samplers and more!

Wordless Wednesday ~ Fun Funk and Weber Classes

2010-06-16T04:18:00.000-07:00

http://funkandweber.com/fw/class.html

Wordless Wednesday ~ Homespun Elegance

2010-06-09T03:55:00.000-07:00

How Sandra J. Sullivan of Homespun Elegance joined the SYHO Campaign

2010-06-08T11:18:00.000-07:00

I was very honored to be asked to participate in the SYHO campaign. Hopefully, this campaign will find new stitchers and instill in them *our* love of this needleart, support our wonderful needlework shops, and promote awareness of heart disease and how to avoid it.

Unknowingly, Loose Thread Stitchers chose someone who has a very important reason for promoting heart health. At the age of 47, my husband, Lehmer, had heart bypass surgery. At 23, I was diagnosed with high blood pressure (200/110). We have both greatly benefited from modern medicine and all it can do for you.

Sandra, Owner & Designer

Homespun Elegance

Homespun Elegance's new blog ~ Plain and Fancy Merchant

2010-06-07T05:47:00.000-07:00

Hear Ye Hear Ye!...we went to a Civil War re-enactment this weekend and I am still in the back in the day spirit (:

Just wanted to drop a quick note to let everyone know that Sandra, of Homespun Elegance fame, has finally started a Blog! She calls it Plain and Fancy Merchant and it is FABULOUS!

It's a great way to get to know Sandra better, learn more about her life, and get a few sneak peeks at new designs (see below).

Be sure to check it out...I am so excited about this blog. Maybe she'll share how she comes up with such amazing design ideas!

SYHO Friday ~ Homespun Elegance

2010-06-04T05:10:00.001-07:00

It’s Official ~ It’s SYHO Friday! YIPPEE!!!! We are thrilled to introduce Sandra of Homespun Elegance, the SYHO Designer Encyclopedia June 2010 designer.

Month ~ June

Design Company ~ Homespun Elegance

Design Title ~ The Heart is the Spirit of the Home

Fabric ~ 32 Count “Amber” Linen from Wichelt

Threads ~ WDW Swamp Water, Kudzu and Straw / Crescent Colors Cocoa Bean, Old Oak Tree / DMC Colors 3799, 758, 869, 3371, 3768, 3051 and 822

Charm ~ Brass “Heartlet” by Homespun Elegance

The June SYHO stitcher newsletter will be out on Monday….till then, be sure to get over to Hoffman Distributing Company’s website and drool over their Friday new releases and then get to your LNS STAT!

~ NEW Cherrywood Design Studios Freebie ~

2010-06-03T07:12:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check out Cherrywood Design Studios freebie section. They just posted this fabulous complimentary design this morning. How fun is this? Looks like I have another project to add to my list.

Wordless Wednesday ~ Homspun Elegance

2010-06-02T05:03:00.000-07:00

Introducing Classy Lass by Homespun Elegance

2010-06-01T04:00:00.000-07:00

Have you heard that Sandra of Homespun Elegance has a new line? "Classy Lass" is a new venture for Sandra's daughter, Hollis, and herself. Hollis is taking Sandra's collection of vintage buttons and trims to embellish purses, jewelry, pillows and other fabrications. Sandra told me they are having such fun with this and hope you will like what we are doing. We will be adding to this page very soon with many more available items.

At the present time, they are offering "Sacks" and "Clutches", ranging in price from $24 to $36. They will all be embellished with "vintage" or "contemporary" buttons, trims, etc. Some will even have needle felting and applique embellishment. There is enough room for your cell phone, money, credit cards, lipstitck, keys - all the essentials. Just perfect for that special occasion or shopping day when you don't want to lug a big purse. These are one of a kind, so you will have something no one else has.

Heart Health ~ Carol for Heart

2010-05-28T05:43:00.000-07:00

CAROL For Heart, Inc. was founded in 2003 to eradicate women's heart disease through increased awareness and education to women and those in the medical community. Please join us as we fundraise, share information, websites and services to raise awareness and educate ourselves, our sisters, our daughters and our loved ones.

If you're a woman, know your risk, talk to your doctor and be proactive.

The Warning Signs: If you or someone you are with has chest discomfort, especially with one or more of the other signs listed below, don't wait longer than 5 minutes before calling for help. Call 9-1-1!

1. Chest Discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.

2. Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

3. Shortness of breath. This feeling often comes along with chest discomfort. But it can occur before the chest discomfort.

4. Other signs. These may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.

The above came from the Fact Sheet/Question & Answer; Go Red for Women Awareness Campaign February 2004- American Heart Association as well as the American Heart Association Southeastern Chapter.

Wordless Wednesday ~ Designs By Lisa

2010-05-26T04:08:00.001-07:00

Suit yourself

2010-05-25T05:29:00.000-07:00

This week Kathy, of Designs By Lisa is having a sale on this great design entitiled ~ Suit Yourself. What a clever design title. I like this for quite a few reasons but probably most of all, it is quite masculine and a great gift idea for the man in your life.

I know father's day is right around the corner and the big guy's been complaining about the felt on his poker table getting all messed up b/c of the condensation from the drinks. I am going to split these up and make them into coasters.

It will take care of the drink issue and they'll match the poker area (not that that is a concern for the big guy, but I'll know they match). I think he's gonna LOVE this!

Sale runs through Friday, May 28th, be sure to check it out!

Traffic 101

2010-05-24T04:39:00.000-07:00

Just saw this post by Kathy of Designs by Lisa and HAD to share it with our blog readers. Kathy is extremely active and is always biking, hiking and getting outdoors to be active and stay fit. Here's a post for her Facebook page about some unusual traffic she found herself in on the bike trail last week.

Happiness is having the bike Trail to yourself.....until you are held up by traffic....

Stitchy Sayings

2010-05-21T04:43:00.000-07:00

We've been having a ball sharing our stitchy saying on the LTS Facebook and Twitter pages. We've had a few members ask to put a few in list form on the LTS blog so here goes.....

~ The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a person's determination (to finish stitching a WIP).

~ A friend is someone who is there for you when they have a WIP (stitching) waiting for them somewhere else.

~ Great works (like stitching) are performed not by strength, but by perseverance.

~ Good actions (like stitching) give strength to ourselves and inspire good actions (like stitching) in others.

Happiness is not something readymade. It comes from your own actions (such as stitching).

Success (in stitching) is not final, failure (to finish a WIP) is not fatal: it is the courage to continue (stitching) that counts.

~ Laugh as much as you breathe, love as long as you live, and stitch as much as possible.

~ Coffee makes it possible to get out of bed, but stitching makes it worthwhile.

~ Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I'll frog tonight and stitch again tomorrow.

~ When the going gets tough the tough get stitching!

Friendship (and stitching) is the only cement that will ever hold the world together.

The strength of a woman can carry the weight of her stash or the world.

~ "If I stitch fast enough, does it count as aerobic exercise?" - Author Unknown

If you think sunshine brings you happiness, then you haven't tried stitching!

~ A fiber craving is nothing that should be taken lightly. What are you going to do about it?

~ There's nothing better than a good friend, except a good friend who stitches with you!

~ Learning to stitch is nearly always inspired by watching someone stitch. Go inspire someone!

~ A wise individual once said, "Nothing stitched.....nothing gained." Learn a new stitch today!

~ The scent of hand dyed linens and threads is the only aromatherapy I need.

~ A balanced diet is fabric and fibers in each hand.

~ "The smallest deed is better than the biggest intention." What's your good deed? Teach someone to stitch today!

We encourage you to share the LTS stitchy sayings, we simply ask you link back to our post when doing so. THANKS!

Can you teach a Kindergartner to stitch?

2010-05-20T04:19:00.000-07:00

So I woke up this morning and realized I have a bit more than 25 hours to get together a lesson plan for my son's (red head in the red sweater vest and black blazer) kindergarten class. I have been invited to come and talk about my job and introduce stitching to the kids.

Now, I of coarse think I have the BEST job in the world. I work in the needlework industry, can it really get any better than that? NOPE! But to be given the opportunity to introduce stitching to 25 six year olds has my head swimming.

What should I show them? Fabrics, Fibers, Accessories, Gadgets, Magazines...there are so many wonderful things about why I chose to start Loose Thread Stitchers, why needlework is so important in my life and how fabulous it feels to create something with my hands. I am so excited to be able to share that with this fabulous group of little people.

So today I will get to the store and pick up a few supplies. I want to create a few "test" pieces so they can use them in the classroom. I have to pack up some models and showcase the range of stitching (framed pictures, pillows, necklaces, smalls, etc.). A pile of fabric, threads, embellishments, etc. for each table of children and I am (cross your fingers for me) going to attempt to make cross stitch cupcakes. Did I leave anything out?

Edit Note ~ Just found this great blog by The Lavender Bakery that shows FABULOUS examples of cross stitch cupcakes! It is the second entry after the Jimmy Choo cupcakes. if you live in the UK ~ this looks like the place to be! This lady has talent! Thanks for the inspiration!

Why I joined the SYHO Campaign

2010-05-18T04:16:00.001-07:00

What can I say about being involved in the SYHO campaign? Only that I'm very proud and happy to be a part of it. I've been stitching for over 20 yrs, and it's such an important part of my life. It's my passion, and people who have a passion for something, live it, and want others to share in it, and that's why I'm excited to be a participant. I wanted to share with others the love I have for stitching, and provide the campaign with a fun chart in the month of May. I want to spark an interest in people to pick up needle and thread and carry on this love of cross stitch. And the fact that the campaign is also promoting heart health, well, that was icing on the cake and made it all more worthwhile. Be Healthy, and Happy Stitching!

Kathy, Owner & Designer
Designs by Lisa

5 Little Know Facts about Designs By Lisa

2010-05-17T04:46:00.000-07:00

1 ~ Even though the company is *Designs by Lisa*, I may not answer to Lisa, since I go by a shortened version of my middle name which is Kathleen. (Kathy) Why? Because when I was born, my dad was out of town, when he returned, he did not care for the name Lisa which my mother had loved and named me. He started to call me Kathy, and the name stuck. Someone had to give, and my mom lost. So in honor of my mom, I named the business after the name she had really wanted to call me.

2 ~ I model stitched for 4 yrs before starting to design.

3 ~ I have never, ever, bowled in my life. Is that sad or what? It looks fun, sorta.

4 ~ I have an obsession with painting*as in rooms, walls, entire houses, etc.

5 ~ I love riding on the back of my husbands* Harley. There's something to be said about being on a motorcycle winding through beautiful scenery with the wind blowing through your hair (okay, that don*t really happen because I wear a helmet), but the rest is true!

Chicken Pasta Recipe by Designs By Lisa

2010-05-15T06:00:00.001-07:00

Ingredients:

1 * cup uncooked penne pasta
1 cup chopped asparagus
6 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cloves garlic
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with herbs, including juice
1 ounce feta cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese

Directions:
Cook penne pasta until al dente (tender), 10 to 12 minutes, or according to package directions. Drain the pasta thoroughly. Set aside.
In a pot fitted with a steamer basket, bring 1 inch of water to a boil. Add the asparagus.
Cover and steam until tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
Spray a large nonstick frying pan with cooking spray. Add the chicken and garlic and saut* over medium-high heat. Cook until the chicken is golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add the tomatoes, including the juice, and simmer 1 minute more.

In a large bowl, add the cooked pasta, steamed asparagus, chicken mixture and feta cheese. Toss gently to mix evenly.

Divide pasta mixture into two servings and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Analysis (per serving)
Calories 455 Cholesterol 81 mg
Protien 41 g Sodium 240 mg
Carbohydrate 55 g Fiber 6.5 g
Total fat 8 g Potassium 462 mg
Saturated fat 3.5 Calcium 125 mg
Monounsaturated Fat 2 g

King of the Kitchen ~ Designs By Lisa

2010-05-14T04:25:00.000-07:00

If you've been reading the LTS blog you've probably picked up that the kitchen and I do not get along. In fact, the big guy asked me recently where I'd like to travel when the kids get older. I said probably Hawaii, Ireland.....he interrupted and asked for a more domestic local. Maybe Texas or Arizona, I suggested.....nope closer he replied.....like maybe the kitchen. He laughed for quite some time at himself.

Seriously? He's nuts! He knew when we got married, I was not skilled in the kitchen department. I am certainly not the Queen of the kitchen, but the big guy on the other hand, is FABULOUS at making pretty much anything and everything under the sun.....and so I will stitch this fun little design for him to let him know that if I can't actually make "food" in the kitchen I can still flex my stitching abilities there (:

Fabric: 28 Count Hand-dyed Sandcastle Jobelan #429-503 from Wichelt
Threads: Gentle Art Sampler Threads,DMC conversion included

Beads: Mill Hill glass seed beads # 00367

Frame: East Side Mouldings: 800-840-6077

Design Size: 9 1/2" w x 7 1/2"h

Stitch count: 134w x 106h

Kathy from Designs By Lisa is having an exclusive sale on this fabulous chart till May 16th. Sale price is $5 and that INCLUDES shipping! Be sure to get over to her website and order b/4 they are gone!

LTS / SYHO May Stitcher Newsletter now available for download

2010-05-13T06:08:00.000-07:00

The May Stitcher LTS / SYHO Designer Encyclopedia newsletter featuring Kathy Hackford of Designs By Lisa has been published. This newsletter is filled with activities, heart healthy tips, tricks and games to get stitchers excited about stitching!

You can check out the latest newsletter HERE

...and in case you missed past issues, you can find them HERE as well as fun downloadable activities, complimentary charts and much much more!

Wordless Wednesday ~ Designs by Lisa

2010-05-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

Help Mike from Hoffman Distributing!

2010-05-11T02:30:00.000-07:00

Help Mike (from Hoffman Distributing Company ) out! Go rate his guitar playing HERE and help him get enough points to win a new guitar! Plus, you're allowed to make fun of him all you want. Who can resist that?

and the winner is.....

2010-05-10T11:44:00.000-07:00

Be sure to stop by the Funk and Weber Needle and ThREAD: Stitching for Literacy Blog today at 4PM EST to see if you are the lucky winner of the SYHO Bookmark Challenge ~ $500 in stash! courtesy of Loose Thread Stitchers. We will announce the winner on the LTS Blog tomorrow.

While you're there be sure to read about Bev who has stitched over 60 bookmarks for her local library in Clinton ~ isn't she FABULOUS!

Here's a preview of Bevs work ~ AMAZING!

Moday Morning Motto ~ Designs By Lisa

2010-05-10T03:37:00.001-07:00

I know I am not the only one who wakes up on Monday morning and feels a bit....blah......well actually if I must be honest (and b/c this is a blog by a mom for moms, I guess I'd better be) I am like that almost every morning. My poor husband had no idea what he was getting into and yet he's still here after almost 10 years....bless his heart!

Yes I admit it, I am NOT a morning person. My face is full of pillow wrinkles and my hair has become a tangled mess insisting on running in 1,000 directions to avoid a comb and welcoming a hat. I get up b/c I have 3 small children to get out the door to school and work to get done before they get home. Otherwise, I would sleep till noon. Alas, those college days are far behind me.

So after I got the last little one out the door and settled down to write the Monday morning Loose Thread Stitchers Facebook update and view my friends Facebook updates I came across one that made me smile...on a MONDAY morning no less....NEVER happens (:

My girlfriend, Kathy of Designs by Lisa, just released a new design called Monday Morning Motto and I promise you the only difference between me and the bird is the color of the hair. I am so getting this one and putting it right next to my bed on my nightstand. Maybe if I see it in the mornings it will get a little spring in my step and a smile on my face.....now if it could only get rid of the pillow wrinkles and bed head, I'd be set!

Seven Words to fight Breast Cancer

2010-05-08T05:26:00.001-07:00

We'd like to highlight a non-stitching related cause today. We have worked with Michelle from MKC Photography in the past on an amazing series of sewing images and she recently shared with us her newest work to help raise money for Breast Cancer. We just had to share it with our members....

I took a poll. I asked women what words they would want to hear when facing a battle, what words they would say to their mother, their sister, their friend. I arranged them in order, from the first day, moving on and upward, through the journey. These seven words are for my aunts. They are for my cousin. They are for my college professor. They are for my childhood friend. They are for each one of us, because cancer touches us all.

In honor of May and Mother's Day, 25% of all proceeds from this print will go directly to my dear friend's organization, Phi Mammo Gramma, as they raise funds for the Avon Three Day Walk in the hope that, one day, the eighth word will be "cure."

SYHO Friday ~ Designs By Lisa

2010-05-07T04:51:00.000-07:00

It’s Official it’s SYHO Friday! Yippee! We are thrilled to introduce Kathy of Designs By Lisa, the SYHO Designer Encyclopedia May 2010 designer.

Month ~ May

Design Company ~ Designs By Lisa

Design Title ~ Purrrrr Like You Mean It

Fabric ~ 32 count Hand-dyed Raspberry Jobelan #865211 from Wichelt

Threads ~ GAST Chalk, Black Crow, Pebble, Rose Garden, Tea Rose

Buttons ~ Just Another Button Company #ss1005.T

The May SYHO Stitcher newsletter will be out on Monday...till then be sure to get over to Hoffman Distributing Company's website and drool over their Friday new releases and then get to your LNS STAT!

Homespun Elegance Ltd. ~ I Love Summer

2010-05-06T06:54:00.001-07:00

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this new design by Homespun Elegance Ltd. for so many reasons...here's a few in no particular order:

1 ~ I DO LOVE summer!
2 ~ The colors are exactly my speed
3 ~ It is a quick to stitch project
4 ~ Just the right size ~ portability is key w/ 3 kids on the go
5 ~ great finishing ideas ~ so making this into a set of pillows for the shore house!

You can totally change the thread and fiber colors to be bright and bold, it is a fabulous hostess gift for your summer parties, I could go on and on. I guess I'd better get my list together for my next trip to the LNS.

Wordless Wednesday ~ Blue Ribbon Designs

2010-05-05T05:20:00.000-07:00

Donate 3 hours to spark a child's love of needlework

2010-05-03T06:35:00.000-07:00

There are 3 days left to stitch a bookmark for the Needle and ThREAD: Stitching for Literacy Campaign. You could win over $500 in stash and a fabulous tray of cookies from Once Upon a Cookie.

Think you don't have enough time? No worries click here to find a quick to stitch chart with lots of small motifs, you only need a single thread color and a small piece of fabric and you are all set! In less than 3 hours you could create an amazing needlework bookmark to give to a child and introduce them to the wonderful world of stitching and encourage their love of reading . Do you remember how you first got hooked? Wouldn't it be FABULOUS to share that feeling with the next generation?

What are you waiting for? Get stitchin!

Happy B-day Stitches 'n Things

2010-05-02T05:14:00.001-07:00

The following is an excerpt from the Stitches 'N Things Newsletter ~ BE sure to check it out!

Drum roll please ........................ Effective at midnight o'one Saturday May 1st............ Since we're turning 18, you get a month long birthday present of 18% OFF** your orders!

** discount excludes DMC floss; not applicable to items already discount/on sale; not applicable to items ordered prior to May 1, 2010. No special orders = items not normally carried in the shop catalog/web site. Key tags will not be punched during the sale month.

** Your order form, if ordering from our secure shopping cart/catalog, will NOT reflect the 18% off discount. That discount WILL be taken off manually by us when we process your order through. You will receive the discount on all applicable items that you are ordering.

Wowsers! That's cool .. but wait a second Deb, how will I know if I'm getting the discount? How will I know if what I'm ordering is in st

ock or not?

Not to worry. Since it's impossible for me to know ahead of time what items will be wanted at the discount, if you are ordering from our web site and what you are ordering is not in stock, it WILL be re-ordered for you AT the 18% Off Discount! It's the items we don't have on our web site that are considered 'special orders' and are not applicable; those items we do not now carry or have not carried in the past.

Now .. lets take this UP a notch and find you MORE WAYS TO SAVE on your Charts/Books/Leaflets!

IF A CHART is not in OUR catalog, but it IS on our Merchant Mall catalog at HOFFMAN Distributing ... you'll still get the 18% OFF Discount when you order it in May!
IF A CHART is not in OUR catalog, but it IS in the chart catalog at NORDEN CRAFTS ... you'll still get the 18% OFF Discount when you order it in May!
IF A CHART is not in OUR catalog, but it IS in the chart catalog at WICHELT IMPORTS ... you'll still get the 18% OFF Discount when you order it in May!
IF A CHART is not in OUR catalog, but it IS in the chart catalog at YARN TREE ... you'll still get the 18% OFF Discount when you order it in May!
And .. just to prove I'm really in a good mood and not stressed out with 'this birthday' ... you'll also get 18% OFF ALL FRAMES, whether in stock OR special ordered! ALL CUSTOM FRAMING (mats, glass, spacers, mounting fe e) w ill be 18% OFF!!! Custom Mats from Sekas OR Jill Rensel are also 18% OFF.

Happy Birthday Month To Us ... Happy Birthday Month To Us ...

Happy Birthday Month dear Stitches N Things (and dear Stitches N Things customers) ...

Happy Birthday Month To Us (er, to you)!

Sewing Chest

2010-04-29T08:47:00.000-07:00

You have got to check out this blog post from Craftwoman 2008 ~ she just got a sewing chest and I am BEYOND envious. It is SO FABULOUS! BE sure to scroll down and see her craft show table ~ so wish I lived closer so I could have gone. I love craft shows!

2010-04-28T05:50:00.000-07:00

You have got to go read Tracy from Ink Circles new blog post ~ She's All Heart! Seriously shows how fabulous the stitching community really is and how close we all are despite our geographic location. I've always felt an instant bond with someone when I found out they were a stitcher. Here's another great reason why!

And since we are all so close I wanted to see if you heard about Tracy's new Project 99? Tracy is going to design 99 bottles of beer but she needs your help! Send Tracy a clear photo of your favorite bottle of beer and she will add it to the design. Tracy has 69 bottles so she is only 30 bottles away from her goal. Now let's all pitch in and go get a beer......just don't forget your camera!

Tracy is a 2010 SYHO Designer Encyclopedia participant. Ink Circles design will debut in August 2010. It is AMAZING! You will not want to miss it!

2010-04-27T06:44:00.000-07:00

Have you read the LTS ~ SYHO April Stitcher Newsletter yet? No? What are you waiting for? With loads of fun games, tips, tricks and heart healthy recipes and activities, this is the BEST read you will have all month! The April newsletter features our April Designer Encyclopedia Designer ~ Belinda Karls-Nace of Blue Ribbon Designs.

Click HERE to read the April 2010 Stitcher newletter and be sure to pass it on to your stitching friends!

Established with Love ~ SYHO Designer Encyclopedia
3rd design in a series of 12 designs for the SYHO Campaign.

Click HERE to read the April 2010 Stitcher newsletter and be sure to pass it on to your stitching friends!

Stitchy Follows?

2010-04-26T04:38:00.000-07:00

Due to the non-stitching related Doggie topic yesterday it seems we hit some kind of alert with Blogger. After I verified the account and our info, I was able to get parts back the blog (we lost quite a few posts) but we were not as lucky with our followers.

We will be sending out an e-mail to all Loose Thread Stitchers and SYHO members as well as posting on Facebook and Twitter. Please pass the word to your stitching friends that 99% of our followers were deleted and they will need to re-follow the blog.

In light of this situation, we will be moving the blog to another venue in the near future to prevent this from happening again but for now we don't want you to miss the latest and greatest in the stitching world. Thanks everyone!!!

2010-04-23T05:41:00.000-07:00

What a great way to end the week! Yippee it's Friday!

"yippee"

Clear chart and instructions, and product list. This model was stitched on 30 count Just Orange from R & R Reproductions. It is stitched with one strand over one. The design is 7 1/3"x 8 3/4" & the stitch count is 221(H)x 262(W). We used both Weeks Dye Works and the Gentle Art Sampler Threads for the model. When stitching with hand dyed threads it is fun to be creative and experiment with the placement of colors. That is one thing that will make your piece truly individual. Each star can be stitched a different way. Do some from left to right doing the full x, some from left to right only doing the / then coming back from the right to do the . Or fill in the outside and stitch circularly until you hit the center. "yippee" just makes me smile!

2010-04-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Little known facts about Blue Ribbon Designs:

1. My first needlework project (at the young age of six) was a Crewel Embroidery garden/vegetable sampler.

2. I have collected music memorabilia since I was teenager and have acquired hundreds of autographs and over 5,000 vinyl record albums.

3. I have sang the National Anthem at several large sporting events.

4. I will be releasing my 100th design in 2010.

5. I have experienced sky diving, bungee jumping, parasailing, and horseback riding in the Alaskan wilderness.

2010-04-19T07:13:00.000-07:00

Want to find a project that will help organize your home this spring and not cost you an arm and a leg? Why not take this week to challenge yourself to re-purpose an item in your house? This morning I took an old infant laundry hamper and turned it into 2 bow holders and a headband holder. It took about an hour and I am thrilled with how it turned out (Here's the story).

Creativity shouldn't be something to fear, it should be something that excites you, feeds your soul and sparks the pride that comes from knowing ~ you did that! Does every project work out ~ no! That doesn't mean you can't try. You might surprise yourself......I know I did.

2010-04-02T05:30:00.000-07:00

It’s Official it’s SYHO Friday! Yippee! We are thrilled to introduce Belinda Karls-Nace of Blue Ribbon Designs, the SYHO Designer Encyclopedia April 2010 designer.

Established with Love

Design #3 in a series of 12 designs for the SYHO Designer Encyclopedia

Design Size 50X50

Fabric: 32 count Light Examplar by Lakeside Linens

Fibers: Weeks Dye Works (1 skein each) Bluecoat Blue, Curry, Emerald, Hazelnut, Snowflake and Turkish Red

~ Here’s a few of our FAVORITES from Blue Ribbon Designs ~

Belinda has a unique way with Samplers. Not only does she create AMAZING motifs to frame and adorn your walls, she goes a step above and creates smalls with motifs from each design providing stitchers with a full range of options and ideas to create a personalized piece that reflects their style and taste.

Schoolgirl Samplings is a fabulous example of Belinda's talent and unique spin on samplers

Belinda's inspirational sayings should be on the walls of corporate workers worldwide! Let's create a movement to get ride of the cheesy motivational posters and replace them with these FABULOUS finds!

Finally, did you know Belinda is kind enough to share the design below on her website? It'll take a few minutes to navigate your way around to find it but believe me it's worth it! You'll be able to explore everything Blue Ribbon Designs has to offer and believe me you will not be disappointed!

Bluebirds and Daisies ~ 2008 Complimentary Chart