May9

What’s Happening at NJNA 5/9/26

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Another week and a half before we get the next part of Jacqui’s series of talks on color. I can’t wait to see how she is going to tie in all that she has covered so far. Plans are in the works for the second half of the year though there are so many holidays and seminars etc. let’s see what is coming.

The seminar in Denver is coming up fast. ANG sent out by email the forms to get merchandise ahead of time. They are offering 3 different Frame Weights and your supposed to ask about the names of them when your at the seminar ! All are very cute and I am sure they will go fast.

ANG is also doing a full day Stitch In on Sunday July 19th in the Aspin Ballroom of the Grand Hyatt Denver. This room can accommodate between 400 and 800 so there should be plenty of room to spread out !! We all seem to like to spread out ! It runs from 11 am – 6 pm and includes “Needlepoint Goodies”, door prizes and access to the ANG Exhibit & Auction. You can register at: https://www.needlepoint.org/general/custom.asp?page=2026Stitch-In

I happen to love my Lowrey stand. They also have other pieces that make it very versatile to fit what ever you are stitching. They now have a new piece you can order. They call it a “Device Holder”. It attaches to your stand and supports your tablet or phone. This way you can look at your instructions, patterns, video’s or even TV while your stitching. I was at a stitch in recently and a woman had her laptop there on the table to view in large font what she was working on – this makes it easier! Lowrey also has a new color for their stands – called Verity – a shocking green! Check out their web site. They say that things on “Pre Order” take about 2 weeks to get – not bad. https://www.workstands.com/store#!/Device-Holder/p/804259886

Day Light has a new light called “DuoNeck Go”. It’s ergonomically designed to deliver effortless focus, exceptional comfort, and crystal-clear clarity. It is supposed to show “true to life color by being able to shift between color temperatures and from wide light to a focused beam. It’s hands free, lightweight with a neck rest and rechargeable. Now if it would make dinner …. wishful thinking! Check it out on their web site: https://daylightcompany.com/us/shop/?utm_source=brevo&utm_campaign=DuoNeck%20Go%20Launch%20US&utm_medium=email

Now that Spring Market is over the new threads are starting to hit the stores. Check out Stitch Stash to see the new Soie Tissee Metalic Threads. As of now there are 20 colors. You can also get a card with 3 of them in White, Patriotic and Christmas. Check out the colors online though there is nothing better than in person. Looking forward to my LNS getting in a shipment. https://stitch-stash.com/collections/metal-soie-tissee-with-a-metallic

Coco Frank, known for her playing cards, flower envelopes, travel round ornaments, dogs…. has been asked to many times about the fabric she uses to finish pieces. She decided to start selling them in sets of five patterns. The prints are small so they are a great size for an ornament so as not to overwhelm the backing compared to the piece. They come in 2 color ways both so sweet. https://cocofrankstudio.com/collections/finishing-fabric

Needlepoint. com has a new stash buster line. They are Nutcracker ornaments that come kitted with the canvas, stitch guide, embellishments and back ground thread. You use your stash for the rest. They use both silk and Radiance threads as part of these kits. Choose from Franz, Ludwig, Otto or Johann !!! https://needlepoint.com/collections/stash-busters?_kx=SpNrwJYeSg8JHGV3vDRNkpeUD67Ddf2hdz1HBTATTO0.TxAVmM&utm_campaign=2026_05_09+Nutcracker+Rounds&utm_klaviyo_id=01EY735XHE675Z0Z1C4Z7SB8DK&utm_medium=campaign&utm_source=Klaviyo

I love checking back every so often to see what new people Moore Stitching has and they never disappoint. There are various categories on the web site to see past favorites. See if you recognize these few: https://moorestitching.com/collections/new-arrivals

The Needlepoint Clubhouse has something really interesting – it’s a wooden frame that you attach your canvas to and then start to stitch. When your done stitching – your DONE ! It’s all finished. The frame is made of 1/2″ thick wood that you tack the canvas to and is decorative. They sell small wood stands separately. They also have a variety of bag tags. A very neat idea ! Perfect for a beginner stitcher to get use to using stretcher bars. Look for Fraymeworks frames. https://www.needlepointclubhouse.com/collections/fraymeworks-frames?_kx=di6BKbqlX0z0_r-FgYg7VgX_cnHap6E52Vd1c3YUq6g.W43bG6

The Needlepointer has a new club – Fortune Cookies ! It doesn’t start until about June and goes for 12 months. Each month you get the canvas (4×4) , stitch guide with different stitches for each cookie, thread pack and a self finishing kit. You also have access to a self finishing tutorial video. https://theneedlepointer.com/products/fortune-cookies?se_activity_id=172907692274&syclid=d7vrdtg1cj3s73bejv30&utm_campaign=Need%20Supplies%20for%20Self-Finishing%3F_172907692274&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email&selling_plan=6057001202&variant=48888798937330

Tips & Tricks: I recently made a quick trip (lol) to Stitch By Stitch in NY. So much to look at but I found on the wall something called “Corner Minders” by Elizabeth Brooke. I am sure you have seen the plastic corners that you tack to the inside of the stretchers bars to keep the frame square. These do the same thing but no tacks. They are only good on mini bars but I am “test driving” a set now and they are rather nice. You will have to call the store for them as they go out the door so fast they are not on the web site. https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooH6_X6wJCDBrOoWraDtc2co2C_Yr_6w_z-KYpYT5MboZbMw3ep

Who was that Famous Stitcher? I received several guesses as to who this is and they were all correct!! This is Ellen Johnson of Serendipity Needleworks. She started out as a First Grade school teacher then became a store owner and named the store after the famous ice cream shop in Manhattan. Now that she is grandmother she does her teaching online and has a weekly YouTube show. She has lots of avenues to learn with and her web site can keep you busy for hours. https://www.serendipityneedleworks.com/about/

Do you know who this Famous Stitcher is?

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY to All !!
Apr25

What’ Happening at NJNA 4/25/26

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This past week was so interesting!! Jacqui did a talk about “Grey Scale”. The most helpful thing I can tell you is to learn how to make a picture on your phone Black and White! If I have this correct, by changing the picture to black and white you will immediately see if you have a balance of color. For example, if you are stitching a piece in a variety of threads in one color – the black and white photo will show everything either very dark or very white – no variation. The more balanced your color choices the more black and white areas will be seen in the picture. Of course you may be going for a monochromatic look, but if not this is really helpful. She went over many terms which in itself was an “Ah Ha” moment for me. But best of all – she is not done. She is going to go into the subject further next month !! Great job Jacqui !! Don’t miss the next installment !!

It looks like ANG is going to try something new. There will be more information to follow but they seem to be trying out a Stitch In. It will be during the seminar in Denver but this is separate. Registration opens in May. If it goes well maybe the will do them in many other places ! Let’s see what they say in their next eblast.

The new quarterly stitch is out and oh so pretty ! This one is by Patricia Hartman. The 4 way Bargello pattern is ready for down loading. I’ll bet it doesn’t matter what color way you do it in – it will look great !

Are you ready to get in trouble ?!?!?!?! So many new things so little stitching time ! Do you remember your Mom or Grandmother having a snap purse?? They are back !!!

It was dizzying going thru all the new items on Stitch By Stitch’s social media and web site. The new items from Elizabeth Crane Swartz – and no dots ! Unless of course you are looking for a Mah Jong mat and or bag – Oh My !

Here is just SOME of the new items – it can make your head spin: https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/collections/2026-spring-needlepoint-market-in-orlando

The Spring Market also brings us a new book from Mary Legallet – Mary’s Whimsical Stitches #5. This one is all background stitches !!!!! The Edwardian Needle is doing a Pre Order list if you need to have it – and we all NEED TO HAVE IT !

THREAD ALERT ! Silk Road Fibers brought you Soie Tissee in all those vibrant colors. You just want to walk up to the wall they are displayed on and touch them! Get ready folks – they are bringing out at the spring market Soie Tissee METALICS ! Can’t wait to see them when they hit the stores !! https://silkroadfiber.com/soi-tissee-metals/

Stitch Stash has beautiful wooden handle Bermuda Bags that are self finishing (and who doesn’t want that option these days). They are by Anne Kay Studio.  Each bag includes a one-piece stitched cover, along with a separate liner and wooden handle. Once your stitching is finished, simply assemble the liner and handle, attach the buttons, and your bag is ready to use—no additional finishing required. https://stitch-stash.com/collections/bermuda-bags-self-finishing

New from Penny Linn – Bag Charms ! Really neat the way you just wrap them around the handle of a bag. Gotta love the colors and beading. https://pennylinn.com/products/bow-basket-bag-charm?variant=45561229279289

Penny Linn has in the Spring Market what apparently many have been asking for – color acrylic items. As of now she has trays and frames with the scalloped edge. They come in 5 colors. If you have not bought any of her acrylic pieces – they are very well made and you can change the canvas you put in with no effort. They make great gifts and pieces for you home. https://pennylinn.com/collections/new-all?utm_source=Email&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=4%2F25%20Colored%20Scallop%20Acrylic&_kx=95-hSwAYM_w1abxIXjXQMDX2ZPJpMD1KDiXnRxmVLaI.RspkHP

I also found a very handy thing that Penny Linn has – you may have seen those stencils to mark the canvas to the correct size to fit a box etc. I have always seen them individually. Penny Linn has a sheet with 6 sizes on it. No misplaceing them when you buy several sizes ! The sheet has 4″, 3″ and 2″ Squares and Circles. https://pennylinn.com/products/acrylic-stencil-sheet?variant=44809969008697

There is a new club out there from The Needlepointer. The Japanese Keepsake Club. This is a 12 month club inspired by Japanese folk art. Each month you get an 18 mesh canvas, stitch guide and thread pack. They also provide a self finishing kit with access to a tutorial video. https://theneedlepointer.com/products/japanese-keepsakes-club?se_activity_id=172817187058&syclid=d7lvnu9mhh6c73dnru3g&utm_campaign=%F0%9F%9A%A8%20Discover%20our%20Latest%20Club%F0%9F%9A%A8_172817187058&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email&selling_plan=6057001202&variant=49072431366386

Tips and Tricks: Is there a stain or mark or did you miss when painting something on your canvas and you need to get rid of it???? Hello Pentel – the company we all used to correct a mistake on your type written papers (WOW did I date myself there!) Pentel has something called “Presto” and it comes in a tube that you can draw with. It will cover whatever you don’t want to show. It dries in a short period of time so you can go on with your stitching.

Who was that Famous Stitcher? This is the famous artist Peter Ashe who passed away last year. He designed canvases for more than 50 years after getting his start in San Francisco. He is mostly known for his stockings and his southwest designs.

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

Apr11

What’s Happening at NJNA 4/11/26

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All the holidays are done, the snow seems to finally have left us and the time change is giving us more sun in the day and better stitching weather !! Wa Hoo !! It couldn’t have come soon enough. This week is already the next NJNA meeting !! Jacqui will be doing a much anticipated presentation on gray scale. Understanding the contrast of blacks and whites makes picking thread colors easier. Kind of like putting white lettering on a black background reads easier than on a light grey background. I am sure she can explain it better than I can which is why this meeting will be so interesting. We also need to think about next years workshop as the Lorene Salt “Circle of Life” is in the history books now – all the ones I saw were stunning !! Amy is already talking to 2 designers for next year !!

Are you going to the ANG Seminar in Denver? If so, I hope you got your classes as there are already 14 that are sold out. Registration closes on April 17th so you need to hurry.

A big congratulations and Thank You to all the new ANG Board Members. They will be serving until 2027 and hopefully beyond.

ANG is keeping up with technology and now has media pages on 3 different platforms. Which ever way you like to view new needlepoint happenings, you can keep up with ANG also. You can find ANG now on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/angneedlepointcommunity?rdid=9LJWQpK3jLUtqlKE&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1Dw15a6LES%2F Instagram https://www.instagram.com/needlepointcommunity?igsh=bGp3bWl3cTV5bWht and Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@needlepointcommunity?_r=1&_t=ZT-946ePKuxGl3

You don’t need to be a “Bag Lady” to buy the new book by Meredith Willett. The owner and amazing stitcher of M’s Canvas house has a new book “Stitch Beautifully”. It has all the info you need to perfect your needlepoint techniques. https://www.mscanvashouse.com/shop/Books/p/Stitch-Beautifully-x99891509.htm

There is also another new publication from the editor of Needlepoint Now magazine. Stitch School Vol #1 – Background Stitches. The book is online only so you can take it any where on a device. It shows charts and photos of various back ground stitches with the ability to print them. Each stitch also has a video tutorial you can access. There is a promise for more books to come. https://www.amkpublications.com/product/stitch-school-background-stitches-volume-1/

Stitch Stash has introduced a new thread for needlepoint called Silky and it’s made by Moondrake Co. https://moondrakeco.com/collections/needlepoint. It’s made of 100% Grade A mulberry silk. Look at the Moondrake web site to see all the vibrant colors clearer – all 40 of them! Stitch Stash says the amazing ones are the neon colors. There are 26 yards to a skein and she says it’ so soft it glides thru the canvas ! https://stitch-stash.com/collections/silky-thread/products/moondrake-co-silky-aureate

New Stores are popping up or will be soon. In Hoboken The Little Stitchery has opened. 736 Washington St. https://www.thelittlestitcheryndlpt.com/about

Penny Linn is expanding into NYC. Look for a grand opening in the beginning of May in the Chelsea area of Manhattan. The space use to be the Heller Gallery on 10th between 27th and 28th St. https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=928097639931512

This week Morgan Julia Designs is doing a Pop Up in Dallas and it’s all about denim – except the 3D Taco ! When they finished it they put it in a “Taco Bell” wrapper ! The other wow item is the fringe denim jacket. She used for the model beads for the fringe ! https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kPxRLk0yIbV_4tcRH9mzljvUaWVaF83z/view?_kx=rV4MBEfWGkwURglkyUXCLopGavY2DCJQzP6Y94aO8T4.RWeQns

In case your wardrobe is a little short for spring check out KC Needlepoint for —- Needlepoint Socks! Just when you thought you saw everything. https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/products/needlepoint-socks?_pos=1&_sid=d945b5345&_ss=r&omnisendContactID=61fc368aa1816e00226a532d&utm_campaign=campaign%3A+Socks+%2868e7ab1e8af6c594e9219f25%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=omnisend

The Spring Market is next week and there are sneak peaks showing up ! Check out Stitch By Stitch in NY to get a glimpse. https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/collections/2026-spring-needlepoint-market-in-orlando

Tips and Tricks: After all that your going to need a Jelly Tote !! It’s a nice size tote bag but not overwhelming – nothing like the Hulken bags. It’s very spacious yet light weight and easy to clean. Extra wide straps for comfort and you can even see thru it (some what). It has a small pouch for your phone or small items that is attached to a key leash so you can’t lose it. Best part – it folds flat! Look on Bedecked and Bedazzled for the purple version though it comes in other colors on your favorite online store!! https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/product/purple-transparent-jelly-tote/

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That is Jeannette Tombaugh of Mountain Peaks Studio. She is the resident canvas expert at “A Stitching Shop” in Denver. She creates both counted and painted needlepoint canvases. You may have seen her classes thru EGA, Cyberpointers, ANG and NAN. She is known for her canvas “Beyond the Moon”. This canvas was inspired by a distant cousin of her husband who discovered the plant “Pluto” !

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

Apr2

“Stitch By Stitch” Mohonk Retreat

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https://www.mohonk.com/?_gl=1*lg9438*_up*MQ..*_gs*MQ..&gclid=CjwKCAjwhLPOBhBiEiwA8_wJHCdaMYbZG2nVWoTglNWPNhtzBSknYx6oRRbrKCZHevheHxgmW2dq8BoCh4AQAvD_BwE&gbraid=0AAAAADuKXbTFsbwNKGu9xnVWBFhLJROfD&nck=gbetri

Stitch By Stitch in Larchmont NY each year has a retreat that is hard to get into. I believe there were 80 seats and close to 600 people that wanted one of those seats !! You can enter their lottery either as an individual or as a “team”. I entered as a team with 3 other NJNA members. Stitch By Stitch does a Live Face Book drawing of the lucky winners and for the first time they pulled my name !! The “team” got in!

If you have read in prior blogs that I have done, Stitch By Stitch is always a favorite. The way they handled this retreat was with precision !! They pulled the names in September for an event held March 22 – 25th. You were informed all along the way what was coming next and what you had to do so that everything ran smoothly. If you had a question – they had the answer !! It was a pleasure going to an event that had it all covered.

The Mohonk Mountain House building is from the 1860’s and there is a glacial lake in front of it. The Smiley Family have owned the property for over 150 years. There is plenty to do at this place from riding to golf to the spa – and even dance lessons. The room was very comfy and had a balcony with a rocking chair and an amazing view. In fact there are little sitting areas and porches with rocking chairs all over.

Unfortunately we did not have the best weather (it even snowed one day) so we did not get to enjoy to much of the out doors but we were there to stitch ! The food in this place was not only delicious but plentiful. You ate in a beautiful room that had wood everywhere in the Craftsman style. We did have dinner 2 nights in the “Founder’s Room” – a private dining area. The interesting part was getting your dinner buffet style “In The Kitchen” ! A unique experience as you stood on line next to the organically growing herbs !

The stitching room was in a separate building that was filled with light. Eight people to a table and our table had women from Long Island. We couldn’t have asked for nicer women to sit with. Actually, all the attendees were very friendly and helpful. The 3 trunk shows in the stitching room – Elizabeth Crane Swartz, Gingham Stitchery and Plum Stitchery along with other items from Stitch By Stitch gave you plenty of shopping opportunities. Elaine Adonidis was also on hand for some short classes on embellishments.

You also did not want for snacks and drinks – they were plentiful all day every day. There were lovely raffle prizes, a pajama party and the topper of it all was the “Swag Bag”. What was at your seat as a gift was over the top. So many great items too numerous to list. I will tell you that when I got back and showed friends what we got – I believe some ordered a few of the items as they loved them and couldn’t not have them.

No matter where you walk there it is a distance. You were also so busy all the time that you were tired everyday. Turn down service even made your night a neat experience with a note and chocolate on your pillow. After a good nights rest we were all ready to go again !

There is so much more to do there that it makes a great get away place that is close to home yet far removed from daily life. It was a wonderful experience and a fun day every day because Betty, Susan, Linda, Catherine and Karen did such a good job of making sure you wanted for nothing ! Good luck to all who enter the lottery in the future. You will not be disappointed.

Mar21

What’s Happening at NJNA 3/21/26

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This week was our monthly meeting and the continuation of Jacqui C’s program about the color wheel. She finished the remaining colors and next month she will be showing us all about Grey Scale – a valuable tool (that I need to know more about!). I was taking a class in Black Work so I missed the meeting BUT – NJNA has been recording them. I can go back and watch what the remaining colors were and how they are used in picking out threads for your projects. Not all guilds do this! We try to be progressive so everyone can enjoy our programing. A thank you to Jacqui for her hard work and we are all looking forward to the next months meeting.

Registration for The 2026 ANG Seminar in Denver is open and as of today there are 10 classes that have already sold out. If you are planning on going you need to hurry to sign up for a class or 2. I looked at the catalogue and there are still some great looking classes but…..

National Office Elections are going on – make sure you vote. Great candidates are stepping up to bring a better ANG organization to us all. You can use the link in the email that came Friday or go to the ANG website.

Yikes – Spring Fling starts in April – another project on my plate !! Worth it though. Everyone should be hearing from Molly Boyne with instructions soon. Keep and eye out in your email.

Oh My !!The new Needle Pointers Magazine is on it’s way !! The cover is a math person’s dream! The back cover is so quirky that I had to read about it on the bottom of the contents page. Again, from the Shop Hop to the thread reviews to the other projects, many about Bargello – this issue is another winner. A Tale of Two Stitchers is adorable !! Check it out online if you can’t wait for the “Snail”.

April 1 – no fooling – there should be new online classes. ANG Independent Learning has a new offering that you should be able to register for. At this time the link is not available but the class, called Desert Rose will be taught by Jeanette Tombaugh. It comes in 2 color ways and believe it or not this is the same piece in the 2 color ways.

Check this out all you handbag lovers !! Rachel Barri Designs has new colors of her clutch bags – Green Croc and Chrome. She also has a deal right now on her web site – buy a clutch canvas insert and get 15% off any clutch bag ! https://rachelbarridesigns.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorR14h6S4ue2uFhgxA_FN3ezNG_uxDSNVRGrTdM6zj5V2Oh6nEk

Penny Linn just came out with an entire line of items on the theme of Eloise ! The 6 year old troublemaker that lives in the Plaza Hotel. From canvases to needle minders, project bags, tote bags, scissors, key chains – if you can think of it she has it and in PINK! Just adorable !! https://pennylinn.com/collections/eloise?utm_source=Email&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=3%2F20%20Eloise%20Launch&_kx=95-hSwAYM_w1abxIXjXQMDX2ZPJpMD1KDiXnRxmVLaI.RspkHP

Morgan Julia is about to launch a new club – a Garden Club. All canvases are 4 X 4 on 13 mesh and each one will be a different flower. She is using a variety of threads and it comes with stitch suggestions. She has to finalize details but expects to ship in April and it will be a monthly club under $100 per month ! Sounds like a great club for newer stitchers that want to move on from the continental stitch. No pictures yet. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVRmP5Yksxz/

Have you checked out Stitch Stash in DE lately? She has started her “Sunday Sale”. Each Sunday she sends out an email with three canvases along with threads and they are 20% off. When they go – that’s it. I have seen it 2 or 3 times and she puts up some interesting choices. The threads a very nice choices, one was a sunshine all done in Radiance. Get on her email list to see what new selections she has. https://stitch-stash.com/search?type=product&q=Sunday%20Sales*

On a similar note KC Needlepoint each week on Friday has “Happy Hour”. From the time the email comes out until midnight they have a 20% off sale on the “Theme ” of the week. It was all floral canvases this past week. Keep an eye out, they may have something you were looking for !!! https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooHnUjALQL5AZLRnPXk_nieRR5gmlEgm2M9GrDygZuvqOGbrf4a

Tips and Tricks: No matter how often you bead on your canvas you need something to corral the beads so they are not “every where” !!! I recently was introduced to the EZ-Beader by The Collection Designs. What a wonderful item. It’s a small piece of wood with a magnet on the back and sticky material on the top. No beads are falling off that !! Someone showed me that you can take the back of the magnet off, keep the wood in the plastic box and THEN put it on your canvas. This way if something does slip off it lands in the plastic box ! Genius !

Who was that Famous Stitcher? This is the most energetic woman in the needlepoint industry, Suzie Vallerie. She is the owner of The Enriched Stitch in Wilton CT, VNG, a company that represents various artists including Amanda Lawford, Enriched Threads – formerly The Caron Collection AND she now owns Needlepoint in Paradise in FL. Watch for what she does next as I am sure she is not done ! Good Luck to her as she turns the needlepoint industry in new directions.

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

Mar7

What’s Hapening at NJNA 3/7/26

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Happy “Almost Spring” everyone ! After this winter we need some spring. Thankfully tonight is Day Light Savings – put those clocks ahead an hour before you go to bed!

March also means that Woodlawn is in full swing. It runs thru March 30th and is closed on Tuesdays. NJNA sent about 25 entries in this year and we have winners !! Let’s all congratulate Noelle D, Diane B, Melita G, Rosie L and Linda M. They all received an award – or two! If you go, check out all the entries from NJNA as they are all winners in their own right – and don’t forget the ginger snaps at the end ! Here is the total list of winners this year: https://www.woodlawnpopeleighey.org/2026-award-winners

ANG Seminar registration is open and closes on April 17 ! Better hurry – 5 classes are already closed. Also – don’t forget to vote for the 3 new positions that are open. I am sure they will all do a great job. AND – we have a new Eastern Area Rep – Pat Thompson. She has been with ANG for over 25 years and held several positions. She is also involved with EGA and NAN and currently going for a certificate in Hand Embroidery thru the Royal School of Needlework. Welcome Pat !

Did you miss the 2 new Independent Learning projects ? Never fear – there are more new offers coming on 4/1/26 – no fooling !

These projects are closed.

We still have a month and a half until the Spring needlepoint trade show in Orland but that has not stopped new designs from popping up now. KC Needle Point has some adorable Spring/Easter canvases. Makes you forget about that remaining dirty snow outside. https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/collections/easter-needlepoint?omnisendContactID=61fc368aa1816e00226a532d&sort_by=created-descending&utm_campaign=campaign%3A+New+easter+%2869a901cde65441f60395bcf8%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=omnisend

Another almost Spring event is Chinese New Year. This is the year of the Fire Horse ! The Needlepointer has new kits for 3 designs of their Fire Crackers. Each one comes with everything you need to stitch it and finish it yourself. They say no additional tools are needed – it comes complete. They also have a video you can follow along with for the finishing. They are pretty ! https://theneedlepointer.com/products/firecracker-ornament-kit?se_activity_id=171591237874&syclid=d6m5378h2fls738ob2qg&utm_campaign=Firecracker+Stitch-To-Finish+Kits+Just+Dropped%21_171591237874&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email

Ready to snap back to reality – Homestead Needle Arts has let everyone know that the dates for finishing this year are rapidly approaching. Check with your local LNS for their dates as it’s getting to the point where you need to plan a year ahead. Yikes. https://www.homesteadneedlearts.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooSIWUGHaMUpgKaAv5FBH79vtTbVihFXCpGtWKfHQDemBaMjzA0

On a more fun note – Stitch By Stitch (as usual) has some neat new items. The one that caught my eye was by a company called Threaded and Tipsy. They have some interesting self finishing items and canvases to choose from to insert. They have something called a “Catch All”. You need a 4X4 canvas to finish with and at first I thought – napkin holder – I was short sighted !! The 2 inch opening can also be used for: Books, planners, project bags, extra canvases (and who doesn’t have those), on a desk, shelf…. It is NOT leather but an affordable alternative. Look at Stitch By Stitch’s web site for their other products https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/collections/vendors?q=Threaded%20and%20Tipsy (Hoping they bring some to Mohonk!)

–Stitched Up Needle Works – on the Left Coast ! is looking to celebrate our nation’s 250th Birthday. They have commemorative canvas ornament kits you can order that include: canvas, stitch guide, threads and embellishments. The kits are $145 and you need to order by April 10th. They are going to have a Stitch In on June 6th from 10 am to 4 pm to help with your kits and they even hint that there might be cake !! You can call the store at 669-258-5027.

I was reading an email from Stitch Stash and she was talking about new things in her shop. One of them was a thread line I had not heard of – Razzle Dazzle Threads. From the picture it’s hard to see but the colors look nice and bright. Go to her web site to see them individually and bigger and they look almost like Trebizond Silk Thread. Many are sold out on her web site so they might be worth giving a try. https://stitch-stash.com/collections/razzle-dazzle-threads

Big changes for River Silks. The owner, Jean Krynicki is retiring after 22 years. Her daughters Lynn, Jill and Beth are stepping into her roll to keep this fabulous ribbon company going. That’s not all ! They are moving their operations across country from Washington State to Virginia !! To make this move they will be closed for several months and stopped taking orders on Jan 22nd. We wish them a lot of luck in the move. Check out their web site for tutorials on using their ribbons. https://www.riversilks.com/

I know someone stitching both a checker board and a Monopoly game. Both canvases are BIG! Morgan Julia Designs has come up with an nice alternative. She has made a smaller version of a Backgammon board (and they have personality!). Her new designs are not a life long project and you have choices of background design. She designed it specifically to use and display. The entire canvas is 15 X 19 making the actual board 11 X 15, a little smaller than a traditional size. The back drops are either ski slopes with giant trees, garden rows with trellises and few bunnies or a garden gate surrounded by hydrangeas. All really pretty and a nice way to play the game. https://morganjuliadesigns.com/collections/backgammon-boards?_kx=rV4MBEfWGkwURglkyUXCLopGavY2DCJQzP6Y94aO8T4.RWeQns

Tips and Tricks: Another magic tool to think about owning !! Have you ever used a “Bunka Brush”? They are very handy to bring the fuzzies / nap up on your stitching to make beards or fur seem more realistic. The Bunka Brush can be a bit big in smaller areas and tough on delicate areas. When you need the same solution but a bit smaller scale you need “The Fiber Finisher” by Rainbow Gallery. It’s a wire fan about a half inch across – perfect for smaller areas ! I found it at KC Needlepoint. https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/collections/ornaments/products/fiber-finisher-brush

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That is Diane, the owner of Pepperberry Designs. With a degree in Fine Arts she spent most of her career as package designer until she opened Pepperberry in 2013. She is an avid gardener and loves making wreaths using – yup – Pepperberries !!

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

I was reading my emails from Ellen Johnson’s Serendipity Needleworks and what she said just struck me as so true. Our needlepoint community is more than stitching – here is how she put it:

It’s time to put the boots, hats and scarfs away – it’s enough for one season!
Feb21

What’s Happening at NJNA 2/21/26

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Hopefully you attended our meeting on Wednesday – it was great. Jacqui was very interesting about the color yellow and orange and how to use the color wheel. I think many are looking forward to the next meeting to continue with the next set of colors. Many are also interested in when she does the grey scale !! That has to be so interesting. So much you can learn. We also had some great show and tell at the end of the program with Noelle promising there is more to come at the next meeting.

Did you sign up for the ANG Spring Fling? I did and this morning I got several emails regarding it. Everything is going thru “Groups.io” and you should see something from Molly Boyne with instructions and information. Like everything else – the time is flying and classes start in April – ALREADY !

ANG has a new Quarterly Stitch Project. It’s a folding Ort Box by Marilyn Owen. The stitch guide is available for download now. I can just see unending combinations of colors for this project. Looks like it might be a good stash buster !!

If you go to an LNS – have you noticed a lot of new faces lately??? Younger faces ?? Needlepoint is beyond hot with younger people looking to learn how to stitch and about threads etc. Sitting in Edwardian Needle we are seeing it more and more. Pam is great with new stitchers (not to mention older ones too!). A friend told several of us about a recent article in Vogue Magazine. What a great read so I have attached it here. Enjoy how what we all know and love is being passed along to new generations, though I am not keen on it being called “Grandma Hobbies” !!

Today’s Needlepoint https://www.vogue.com/article/needlepoint-revival-trend

New Threads Alert ! Several of us went to a retreat in CT a few weeks back and since we were passing Stitch By Stitch and they have a new store – well… who could resist?!?! Not us !! They have always been a great store but they are amazing now. So much bigger and brighter and only a few doors from the old store. As we savored the new store we all saw the wall with the new thread from Silk Road Fibers. They are the people that made Silk Straw. Their newest fiber is called Soie Tissee. Let’s just say we kind of decimated their stock. You have to see the colors in person, very vibrant and it is very soft and flat – good for padding !! (the picture below does no justice) I bought some for my new project and can’t wait to stitch with it. https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooH6_X6wJCDBrOoWraDtc2co2C_Yr_6w_z-KYpYT5MboZbMw3ep

The Edwardian Needle just got a new line of threads in called Valdani. She has several drawers of these new Pearl 8 threads and the colors are beautiful. It looked like most were variegated. The thread feels softer than the DMC version. I don’t think these are going to last long in the shop. Check them out soon. The Edwardian is open Wed thru Sat and if you have a question, please call the store.

Needlepoint.com is a great web site (as I am sure you all know) and some day I will get to their stores in North Carolina. For now I use their web site to see all the latest and greatest items. They have a “needle points” program where you earn as you buy and then can redeem later. Check out how to get and redeem points on their web site. I understand they do wonderful finishing and now you can redeem your points on finishing also ! https://needlepoint.com/pages/rewards

The retreat several of us went to (after we tore ourselves out of Stitch By Stitch) was in South Norwalk CT. The place we went to was actually a finisher of needlepoint. It’s called Island House Needlepoint. By the end of the retreat we all couldn’t say enough wonderful things about JoAnn and her staff. So warm and gracious to everyone. This was their first retreat and they did a spectacular job ! Jinny McAuliffe was there (Stitch Style) and had a canvas just for the occasion along with her stitch guide, threads and teaching each day. Our gift as part of the retreat was like none I have seen before. It is a heavy canvas bag with handles and a pocket inside that she embroidered with the name of the retreat. I can’t wait to finish Jinny’s canvas to have it put on the bag. They also did a bang up job with lunch’s and snacks – we wanted for nothing. I have to tell you though – one of the most unexpected parts of the retreat was to see the finishing that they do. They have some unique ideas and it was interesting to see the actual finishing area with the bolts of material and equipment. She has a great system that gets your finishing back in 2 months !!!! I know someone that had something finished there and she was very happy !! On a side note – they also sell one of the best laying tools I own !!! https://islandhouseneedlepoint.com/

Tips and Tricks: Are you a “Frogger”???? I hate ripping stitches out !! I was in a needlepoint store and saw this seam ripper. Very colorful and seemed easy to handle. Fast forward many years and I am still using the same one!! (thankfully not often!). They are available in many places but this brand – did it for me!

Who was that Famous Stitcher? This is Susan Byrne, one of the owners of Blueberry Point Needlepoint. She has a BFA in graphic design and has been stitching for over 40 years. They have some of the sweetest designs. She only sells wholesale but if you check her web site to see the shops she sells to in your area. https://blueberrypointneedlepoint.com/

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

SNOW AGAIN !!! Everyone stay warm and safe and stitch a lot !!

Feb7

What’s Happening at NJNA 2/7/26

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Yikes is that cold out there !! That ground hog saw his shadow so we have another 6 weeks of winter to look forward too. Makes you glad that NJNA does meetings via Zoom as well as in person. Another week and a half until we see the next phase of Jacqui C’s year of color ! (I hope it warms up a bit !)

My Needle Pointers magazine just got to my house. ANG just let us all know in their email that the printer is having mechanical problems. Your next issue of the magazine will most likely be a few weeks later also. Good thing this Jan/Feb issue is so packed with articles and ideas to savor, it may take me awhile to get thru.

There are new reasons to stitch (like we needed a reason) – Valentines Day – the Olympics – Spring ! The Needlepointer has a “Mystery Stitch to Finish Box” offer that sounds interesting. Sign up for the box and it should come before February 14th. The box includes a lot ! 2 Valentine canvases, threads, stitch guide, finishing guide and their finishing kit to turn 2 canvases into ornaments. It doesn’t stop there – you also get a bonus pack of threads (for extra creativity) and a set of tools. https://theneedlepointer.com/collections/printed-canvas

With this cold artic blast The Village Needle Works came up with a unique idea – stitching and a movie ! They are having a special event in Omaha NE on Feb 12th. You buy a ticket and show up at their local movie theatre. Doors open at 6 pm and the movie “You’ve Got Mail” starts at 6:30. You also receive a “Valentine’s treat bag”. Bring your stitching as they will be having the theatre lights partially up but they suggest you also bring a clip on light. What a fun idea !! NE is a bit far away but check out Stitch Stash in DE – they are doing the same thing on March 29th only the movie is “Legally Blonde”. https://stitch-stash.com/products/%F0%9F%8E%AC-lights-stitching-action-registration?contact%5Btags%5D=newsletter&form_type=customer#feedback-bar–newsletter

New – New – New – New – New Kathy Rees of Needle Delights announced that Caron Collection has new Water Color shades. She is offering them at a sale price until Feb 15th. She says she is already using then in some of her new designs. 12 beautiful new shades – I think I may need them ! LOL https://needledelights.com/product/new-watercolours-12-skeins/

On another note – Kathy Rees has been having problems getting white canvas, seems to be in very short supply. She also let everyone know that lead times to order supplies are starting to increase again – shades of the Covid times. If that is not enough she was also told that suppliers will be increasing prices in March. She has been gearing up for new mystery class and says she is very frustrated – aren’t we all.

Speaking of colors – check out Color Compliments new penguin design “Waddle”, sure to make you smile. You have to love the color combinations and the face just melts you. They have 2 kits that allow you to stitch 3 penguins. The design of the penguin is the same and the only difference between the kits is the color combo’s. https://colourcomplements.com/product-category/custom-thread-kits?utm_source=Colour+Complements+News+%26+Updates&utm_campaign=f314da55db-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2026_02_05_08_22&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-f314da55db-285058737&mc_cid=f314da55db&mc_eid=a82e51f2f8

Perfect for the holiday – Blue Dogwood has a new kit featuring 3 hearts in a garnet colorway. The kit includes a stitch painted 18 ct canvas, Weeks Dye Works threads, a white frame with a mat and glass. They also have a teal twilight colorway. A quick yet very pretty stitch. https://bluedogwooddesigns.com/product/3-hearts-garnet/

Do you or friends play canasta? It has become very popular these days. Coco Frank has some new canvases that would make a neat gift. Playing cards and of course, a needle minder to match. Did you doubt it? https://cocofrankstudio.com/collections/playing-cards

She is at it again – Morgan Julia Designs is having another “Pop Up”, this time in Dallas TX. She has again rented a store space from April 17 – 19 and like her NYC pop up will have a limited edition canvas collection, some special releases and a few surprises. For someone about to get married she is a very busy woman. You can read about her new event on her web site. Ye Ha ! https://morganjuliadesigns.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooF16N0vgknVTgRM_y2VuYQr6VfSGDpsn-YEEezbYOh_BV9Rc_S

Tips and Tricks: Never be without the necessities again ! Atlantic Blue Canvas has this Snip and Stitch keychain and it’s a big seller. You need to put in your email to be told when it’s back in stock ! https://www.atlanticbluecanvas.com/products/snip-stitch-keychain

Who was that Famous Stitcher? This is Vernon Kirk. He has been a long time designer of Elizabeth Bradley Designs and is one half of the familiar Kirk and Bradley destination rounds. He studied his BA in the UK for fashion and print design. In his 20’s he was working for a fashion textile house in London and was approached to do some freelance work designing needlepoint.

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

Jan24

What’s Happening at NJNA 1/24/26

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This past week we had our first meeting of they year. So good to see so many on Zoom. After a short business meeting Jacqui C gave us the beginnings of “The Year of Color”. A color wheel was sent out to everyone if you didn’t get it at the lunch. She explained how useful the color wheel can be when picking threads for a project. Next month’s meeting should be quite worth your time. Jacqui will be explaining more of the color wheel and how to use it along with a discussion on a specific color. Each new meeting will be about a specific color and as we all know from Jacqui – everyone needs a little yellow in their life !!

Have you looked at the brochure for the seminar in Denver?? Some very neat looking projects. With this storm coming, get yourself something to drink and peruse the classes being offered. https://online.fliphtml5.com/bjsk/orfy/#p=1

ANG has just revealed the NEW Distance Learning offerings. They are now offering distance classes in 2 categories. Either with a teacher or on your own. What they show on the web site is one of each. Read more about them including the cost on the ANG website under Education.

All you Edwardian Needle fans – Pam is having a big sale. All canvases are 25% off ! It can be a deep dive in some of those drawers but many hidden gems are there waiting to be found. As I sifted a bit I found several Charlie Harpers, Melissa Shirley and several that have been featured in older Needlepoint Now magazines. She is also having a Super Bowl party that you have to sign up for at the front desk.

With the storm coming for the next few days and Mother Nature taking her anger out on us all with that frigid air maybe it’s not a bad idea to think about a class at the beach – IN JUNE !! Stitch Stash is having a 2 day class on turkey work, beads and ribbons. Audra Daughtry is teaching the classes. https://stitch-stash.com/collections/audra-daughtry-2-day-class-focusing-on-turkey-work-beading-and-ribbons?customer_posted=true#feedback-bar–newsletter

For those that love the new food trend of having a Charcuterie Board (shaar·koo·tr·ee) for company can now have a stitched one. Needlepoint Obsession in Maine has an exclusive canvas that would make a great tray for drinks with your array of meats and cheeses. They are also putting the finishing touches on a stitch guide for it including embellishments. To Pre Order: https://www.needlepointobsession.com/product-page/charcuterie-board?utm_campaign=2fb0a866-88f2-4316-b2a4-d790172637f9&utm_source=so&utm_medium=mail&cid=26af9709-65a8-4538-b992-dbcd68f4683e

The Needlepointer has a very interesting new club. It’s expected to start in April and runs for 12 months. It’s called the Kaleidoscope of Color. Each month you get a variety of threads to experiment with and explore. To go with them you get a small painted canvas and a stitch guide. If that is not enough they also include a key fob so you can finish the canvas and use what you stitched. Sounds like a deal !!! https://theneedlepointer.com/products/kaleidoscope-kolours-2026?se_activity_id=170322231538&syclid=d5qjsvk843hs73d28gs0&utm_campaign=Join%20the%20Excitement%20Today%E2%80%94New%20Club%20Awaits!_170322231538&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email&selling_plan=6057001202&variant=48678444204274

Needlepoint has exploded into a trend that is being embraced by many younger people – a great thing. Do you know anyone new to it or wanting to try it out. Needlepoint.com has an interesting offer. Refer a Friend and both you and the friend get $15 off a purchase. What a nice incentive for both. Goodness knows their web site can keep you busy just looking at all they have to offer. I understand the store is amazing (dangerous) to go in person. https://needlepoint.com/pages/rewards?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=2026_01_24%20Referral%2C%20Nutcrackers&utm_klaviyo_id=01EY735XHE675Z0Z1C4Z7SB8DK&_kx=SpNrwJYeSg8JHGV3vDRNkpeUD67Ddf2hdz1HBTATTO0.TxAVmM

DMC has a new offer. They have a nice looking tote bag from their Eco Vita collection. It looks roomy yet not over bearing to make you feel like a pack animal. It comes with 12 skeins of Eco Vita Naturally Dyed Organic Wool Thread, and the Eco Vita Wooden Project Box with 24 Bobbins. https://www.dmc.com/US/en/products/eco-vita-tote-bobbin-box-bundle?taxon_id=244

Coco Frank recently had a baby – can you tell by her newest canvas????? Actually it works for many situations not just for babies. Would be very cute as a pillow in a guest room. Great colors and only 7.5 X 3.5 on 13 mesh – a quick stitch as a gift. Just pretty ! https://cocofrankstudio.com/products/floral-sweet-dreams?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=Sweet+Dreams+Launch+Wednesday&utm_id=01KFDXC6MS76W5XZ2NTGJPY82G&_kx=AMZQYComXLrlPiMuvFdjhoml8t5fg3L7XzLWnq3B7hE.XYMb7E

The only thing that this frigid weather reminds me of (in a positive way) is the Winter Olympics. If your a fan then you might want to check out the new piece by Hedgehog Needlepoint. You can pre order the new 2026 Winter Olympics Mitten. She expects it to ship on Feb 3 and how great a way to celebrate the games but to stitch while watching ! https://hedgehogneedlepoint.com/products/2026-winter-games-mitten-needlepoint-canvas

If your a fan of Color Compliments then go check out their new colors. They are all limited editions and there are more to come next month. She has started with 3 randomly dyed color combinations. She is also adding 2 new colors of size 12 perle cotton samplers in addition to the blue one released in late 2025. Interesting and soft looking colors. https://colourcomplements.com/product-category/limited-edition-embroidery-threads The 12 Perle Cottons are on sale. https://colourcomplements.com/product-category/sale

Tips and Tricks: If you haven’t seen these go get some – they can be a wonderful third hand ! They come in a number of names and you can get them by the ton on Amazon – look up Wonder Clips. I have used them to hold threads out of the way until I am ready to go back to a color and they are the best tool if you do your own finishing. Be aware that you can get them in different sizes. Always keep them in your bag of tricks.

Who was that Famous Stitcher? Bet you knew this one – she is Megan Holmes the owner of The Gingham Stitchery in St. Louis MO and Susan Roberts. Megan and Melisa McCloud of The Wool and the Floss use to do a podcast called Pointing it Out which you can still see on YouTube.

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

Everyone hunker down and stay warm in the storm – perfect time to stitch !!

Jan10

What’s Happening at NJNA 1/10/26

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Today was the NJNA Holiday Lunch at The Grain House in Basking Ridge NJ. Always a nice time. So great to see people in person and chat. The food never disappoints but the real draw is to see everyone’s stitching that they bring to show. Jacqui and Cathryn also told us about this year being the year of color. We all got a color wheel, ring for our up coming threads, a colorful magnet courtesy of Linda M and a pen !! LOL The pen was for a fun circle a word while we were waiting for our desert ! We were also surprised with our President Noelle D. having flown in for the occasion. There was an amazing amount of talent in the room was on display for all to see. Here are some pictures of projects and “The Year of Color”.

Have you renewed your National ANG dues yet?? If not just know that some are having trouble with the web site. You can call them directly to see how to pay until they get their web site fixed. Their number is 856-380-6911.

Oh My ! The new Needle Pointers magazine is on it’s way and it never disappoints. The cover is great the back cover is spectacular! What is in between will keep you turning pages for quite a while. Our own Melita G is in for her wins at seminar not to mention her column – Timeless Treasures From The Archives. I found lots of surprises and then I got to the Tale of Two Stitchers – I can’t wait to read it in hand to see more details. In just looking thru the digital copy – how creative a group are we ! Amazing pieces that seem to only get better and better.

ANG now has something new called Independent Learning. This is Correspondence Courses, CyberWorkshop, and Workshop by Mail all rolled into one. Two ways to learn and a simplified registration process all to make it easier to enjoy a class. Check it out on the web site (after they fix it) and there should be 2 courses you can already choose from.

ANG also announced the new Stitch of the Month – or should I say “Beard of the Month” VERY different! Each month is a new pattern to create a different looking beard. All of the designs are by Janet Zickler Casey. Not just for Santa or a Nutcracker, they can be used on any canvas needing a beard or maybe some interesting hair !?!?!?!

Was your interest tickled to hear what Pantone’s color of the year is for 2026? What were they thinking?? White ! They may call it “Cloud Dancer” and we know there are enough whites to make you dizzy but – it’s white ! They need to step up their game for next year !

The Needlepointer has something new – an ornament and as part of the kit you get everything needed to finish it. They also include access to one of their videos to get step by step visual instructions. A good way to learn finishing an ornament as it’s getting harder and harder to get things back. https://theneedlepointer.com/products/complete-ornament-stitch-amp-self-finishing-kit-with-tutorial-video?se_activity_id=169461580018&syclid=d5gpbou7kkjc73eemo8g&utm_campaign=Shop+This+Exciting+NEW+Arrival+Now%21_169461580018&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email

Stitch Stash has a new club that runs for 6 months starting in February. Each month you get an ornament designed by Elizabeth Crane Swartz (known for her dots). You have to commit to 3 months or go for all six. You receive the canvas, stitch guide done by Patti Hoffmann, thread kit and it all ships for free. These ornaments are ECS’s original artwork she used for her past Christmas cards. https://stitch-stash.com/products/the-card-art-club

Stitch Rock has a bunch of holiday canvases (for next year) on their web site – one cuter than the next! You have to love the “Pug in a Pumpkin” needle minder also. Check out her array of canvases from The Griswold Family Vacation, new stamps etc. Not small canvases but certainly not big – like Goldilocks – “Just Right”. https://stitchrockdesigns.com/

Tips & Tricks: Have you ever dropped your scissors – silly question. What happens to the point? Does it get damaged hitting the floor or worse hitting your foot. Protect the point with fun scissor protectors ! Check out Etsy for all of these to protect your 2nd most needed piece of equipment (needles first !)

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That is Maggie Boroujerdi – the founder of LOVE mhb Studio. A graphic designer right out of the Parsons School of Design. She worked at Martha Stewart Living and Conde Nast before venturing out on her own having been stitching for most of her life. When you look at her web site you will know many of her canvases. https://lovemhbstudio.com/

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?