Aug23

What’s Happening at NJNA 8/22/26

Posted on by
Standard

We had a great meeting this past Wednesday. Even though we ran long I don’t think anyone cared. We had a visitor at the library and really hope she decides to join us. We finished up with Melita’s band sampler and picked her brain about how she did what she did. We also marveled at so many Show and Shares.

ANG has announced they are having 2 FREE Lectures in September (yes, it’s almost here!) Both are by well known designers and have to be interesting. The first is being given by Jennifer Riefenberg – “What Makes a Design Work” on 9/9 at 6PM EST and the 2nd is by Sue Reed – “Tips and Tricks” 9/19 at 12PM EST. You should be getting an email to sign up starting August 31.

Congratulations to ANG for the haul they brought in on the silent auction. They raised $35,045 !!! Watch for the next one coming in October !

Have you checked your email??? Penny Linn just put out a phone APP. Like many others you can have new items at your finger tips !! Ugh – just what we needed !!

Since we are talking Penny Linn – they are trying something new at their New York store – Men’s Stitching Night ! Hope it catches on ! https://pennylinn.com/pages/new-york-store?srsltid=AfmBOop7p7o4vpcEgXIVgnIHAGslhwppulcLuor3vQd9WHEByMdSTX7v

Are you ready to welcome back Mrs. Meshugga?? Mrs. Meshugga can’t wait for the Grand Re-Opening and has set up a special event !!! The actual Re-Opening is 9/6 but Lisa has been busy setting up all new threads, canvases…. and wanted to give everyone a “sneak peak”. To help those frazzled parents of school children she is opening on 9/1/26 from 10 am to 5 pm so you can drop the kids at school, come see the new store, grab a Mimosa and decompress. The place should be something to see as they have taken over the entire space ! https://www.mrsmeshugga.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooi36GFeYOb1XKEMMDxEX-wvufM_WjSxTU2y0Be9th6ioQBZBtA

One of the newest shops in our area “Lucy Lane” is planning a full Fall Schedule ! Check out her events as she is having a Gilmore Girls Movie night (pop tarts, Mallomars, hot cocoa, Chinese Food…). Monograming a luggage tag class and an 8 week Decorative Stitch Master Class. Ashli is excited to start the Fall !! https://lucylaneneedlepoint.com/pages/events

Get ready for Stitch By Stitch’s 2027 retreat. I went earlier this year and it is an amazing time. The lottery opens on September 10th at 8 am and is cut off Sept 17th at 8 PM. There is room for 80 people and the lucky winners names will be pulled on Instagram Monday Sept 28th. Good Luck to all !! https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/pages/needlepoint-retreat-at-mohonk-mountain-house

There is also a new retreat – this time to the Caribbean! You can sign up to take a cruise with Kathy Rees of Needle Delights and Toni Gerdes for “Sailing Stitches 2027”. This is a 9 night western Caribbean Cruise on the Celebrity Eclipse. It departs on April 2, 2027 from Fort Lauderdale and goes to Antigua, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and St. Thomas. Sounds good to me !!! https://www.funseas.com/stitches-carib

Tips & Tricks: For those times when you want to make an “impression” – how about a Lipstick Needle Holder. And it even comes in 3 colors ! Who thinks of these things? The pin cushion is made of wool so it actually cleans your needle when you use it ! https://www.canvasqueenneedlepoint.com/products/lipstick-needle-holder-white-tube-with-pink-wool-cushion

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That is Melissa Prince – you know her from her women on a vespas or her angular colorful animals along with many familiar designs. She started out in a family advertising firm. A friend introduced her to needlepointing. She did some paintings for her local LNS and the rest is history. https://www.melissaprincedesigns.com/

Do you know who this Famous Stitcher is?

Aug8

What’s Happening at NJNA 8/8/26

Posted on by
Standard

This month at NJNA we have Part 2 of Melita’s “A Spring Sampler”. As a member of NJNA you can purchase the instructions for this project for $7.50 for the PDF. I am looking forward to her presentation this month and hear about the stitches she chose. In the instructions, Melita gives other colorways besides the purple – or – do your own thing!

We also have a new member at NJNA – Robyn Z. We hope to meet her on zoom at this months meeting to say Welcome. She is already going to join in with Melita’s project and is looking to join us in the MET Region EGA event that NJNA was invited to “Africana” by Lorene Salt. As a reminder you have until September 8th to register. Many NJNA members are already part of the group !

The ANG Denver Seminar is finished and they have published a list of all the ribbon winners. (Our Melita was among those names !). The only picture they shared so far is Best Of Show and Star-Lee Corpuz certainly deserves that honor. Her piece is called Bonnie Blue Boy and looks amazing. It must be a master piece in person ! You can tell how large it is in the picture – not easy to stitch ! Congratulations for a well deserved ribbon.

It’s almost that time of year – Vacation at the Edwardian Needle. Pam will be closed from Wed August 26th thru the Labor Day weekend and reopen on Wed. September 9th. She has a Zecca trunk show of small canvases in the store that will be going back in about a week. She also has some new bead handles for those acrylic hand bags that are just stunning and a new colorful batch of laying tools along with other baubles to grab your attention. Stop in before vacation !

It’s also the time of year for Gone Stitching’s annual sale. As of right now all in store canvases are 20% off including all Judaica. There is also a DMC sale on select colors of DMC #3 and #5 for $1.50 each. Check out their newest book while your there “Got Stitches – Fine I’ll Do It Myself” https://www.gonestitching.net/

I am seeing email after email that one of the most anticipated new books is hitting the stores – Mary Legallet’s Book #5 Needlepoint Stitches for Backgrounds. If you put your name on a list at an LNS you should be hearing from them soon. Can’t wait to thumb thru and get ideas for all those WIP’s !! LOL

Fireside Stitchery just announced that they will be carrying 2 new thread lines by The Thread Gatherer – Sanibel and Oriental Linen. A group of us are planning a small trip to Fireside and I can’t wait to see these – they look so soft. They are also hinting at another new line of thread that is coming soon! They already carry over 120 thread lines ! A busy store – they are making more room in the shop for larger classes and events. This should be a fun trip ! https://firesidestitchery.com/

Another busy store is Penny Linn, they just keep adding to the experience! They had a pop up today with Atlantic Blue Canvas (the same store that gave us all those Mr. and Mrs. Claus playing various sports). If you missed that, they are also doing “Stitching in the Stands” at Citi Field. They will all be sitting together in the left field porch to watch the Mets take on the Washington Nationals on Aug 16th. https://pennylinn.com/products/stitching-in-the-stands-at-citi-field-1?variant=46183770882105&utm_source=Email&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=August+Events&_kx=95-hSwAYM_w1abxIXjXQMDX2ZPJpMD1KDiXnRxmVLaI.RspkHP They are doing pod casts from the CT store and lots more. Here is her calendar for both stores. https://pennylinn.com/pages/events-happening?utm_source=Email&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=August%20Events&_kx=95-hSwAYM_w1abxIXjXQMDX2ZPJpMD1KDiXnRxmVLaI.RspkHP If that makes you tired then she has just the thing – needlepoint pajamas with matching children’s pj’s !! That store works hard !! https://pennylinn.com/search?q=pajama&type=product

Stitch Stash is back with their 9th year of 25 days of Needlepoint in December. Delivered before Dec 1st is a box with 25 individually wrapped gifts related to needlepoint with the last package an exclusive canvas and stitch guide. Choose between 13 or 18 mesh. I think this sells out almost as fast as Penny Linn’s so hurry if your interested. https://stitch-stash.com/collections/25-days-of-needlepoint-signups

I did not know what a “Stitch-Its” was. KC Needlepoint explained all about it as part of their introduction of the “Stitch It’s” Breast Cancer Angel. I can now tell you that the creator of “Stitch-Its”, Barb Selders, had a dear friend that passed away from Breast Cancer. She developed the concept of the “Stitch-It’s” angels with Barb and as of now there are hundreds of designs for everything you can think of. Barbs friend also came up with the idea of the bow in the back for the wings. In memory of her friend she has designed a Breast Cancer Angel. A portion of each Breast Cancer angel sold is donated to Breast Cancer research. https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/collections/angels?omnisendContactID=61fc368aa1816e00226a532d&sort_by=created-descending&utm_campaign=campaign%3A+Breast+Cancer+%286a7364cd2ff5225cfdb4c40c%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=omnisend

While you are on KC Needlepoint’s web site you can check out their version of needlepoint pajama’s. Totally different print !! It’s all about choices ! https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/products/needlepoint-print-pajamas?_pos=1&_psq=pajama&_psid=5707976e8&_ss=e

Hedgehog Needlepoint has received long awaited stock ! She just got numerous items from her collegiate series including mini Christmas stockings. There are 22 new additions to her “Wee Flag Tag” series. What a great quick stitch as they are only 2″X4″ on 18 mesh. She also has exclusive leather finishing tags for them. Great to stitch while traveling and a wonderful gift. https://hedgehogneedlepoint.com/

Rachel Barri Designs is looking to do a retreat. They are looking for input on how to make the experience something that everyone would love to do. If you would like to put your 2 cents in then take the survey. It is not long and easy to answer. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeQKvxhaKF9_LDhyU_aSEtGD9OUJwU-bvsgpSdfXVDtBS1HcA/viewform?_kx=IbiE6FbsWlQDlZ5xW1wsPrWLGJAJnjPlv0XjcQZiJeo.V6RsJQ

Tips & Tricks: Several friends were sharing places that they found project bags, Amazon (of course), Target….. All great. I was going thru emails and came up with a bag I had never seen before. The ultimate bag for needlepoint – one for your stretcher bars !! Now when you are done laughing, think about it – might be a good idea if your traveling so nothing gets snagged !?!?!? Go ahead – laugh !! https://heirloomdesigns.studio/products/a-tsssb

Who was that Famous Stitcher? Everyone knows Sarah Jessica Parker. She is well known for her love of needlework and has been seen on set working away between takes.

Do you know who this Famous Stitcher is?

Even Snoopy needlepoints !

Jul25

What’s Happening at NJNA 7/25/26

Posted on by
Standard

Our July meeting was a great continuation of the Year of Color. We had a discussion by Melita G on her award winning “A Spring Sampler”. This is the first half of the discussion as the 2nd half will be in August. We spoke about all the things that Jacqui taught us in the first half of the year – color, value, threads, stitches…. A logical progression so we can put all we learned to use. Don’t forget, we are selling the instructions to NJNA members via PDF for $7.50. Get a copy and come join the fun.

Not to get ahead of ourselves – BUT – when you finish stitching this piece you can go to KC Needlepoint and they have a deal to have it finished into a “clutch” for $95 and it will take about 1 month! A phenomenal deal !! You would need to email KC Needlepoint and ask how to get your finished piece finished but here are the specifics. kcneedlepointfinishing@gmail.com

By now you should have the July issue of Needle Pointers magazine. I know when I got mine I immediately flipped to the Tale of Two Stitchers article. The one on the left is stitched by our own Cathryn C. We might be partial as to which one we like best. You decide !

The Denver Seminar wrapped it all up on Thursday the 23rd. Looking forward to hearing how great a time everyone had. Next year it’s going t be in Nashville TN and it will be a shorter version. They are planning on 4 days instead of 6 days. Because it’s abbreviated from past seminars there will be no exhibit. All those that attended the Denver seminar got to view next years offerings – looking forward to hearing what is coming up.

Many at NJNA gave feed back for a program by Lorene Salt and most wanted her “Africana” piece. She was not offering it at that time so we went with her “Circles of Life” – also a lovely piece. The Metropolitan Region of EGA is offering “Africana” to all at NJNA. Registration is open until 9/8/26 if you are interested. The class will be held via Zoom over 4 days in March of 2027. Contact Janice Meyer for more details.

America’s Tapestry is starting to make their rounds around the 13 states making up the original colonies of the USA. It will be visiting New Jersey in Oct – Dec of this year. If you would like to support the project, you can go to their web site where they sell prints, posters, postcards and books about the project. They also have for sale a Needle Minder for $12. It’s a Limited Edition and they only made 100. What a neat way to help support this incredible endeavor. https://www.americastapestry.com/shop

NEW SHOP ALERT ! Cathryn C. and Barbara L. of our chapter went on a search for “Lucy Lane”. the new shop that just opened in New Providence NJ. Ashli, the owner of the shop greets you as you come in and looks to be following the format of the newer stores. Her shop is bright and open. She has lots of smaller canvases (and waiting on a shipment of 200+ more). She also carries several very nice thread lines. There are 2 tables to hang out and stitch and they will be open once a month in the evening for “open stitching”. Check her web site for hours. Her plan is to go to the next market and bring back lots of new items and in particular, Colors of Praise canvases. Sounds like a great place for a new stitcher. Nothing better than a new store to check out ! Good luck to Ashli and Lucy Lane Needlepoint. – lucylaneneddlepoint.com

Morgan Julia Designs in Jersey City is looking for Full Time employees ! You can have your canvas and stitch it too !!! Just know that her items sell out REALLY fast so having an inside tract would not be a bad thing ! https://morganjuliadesigns.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopUbOb4tLYXTTsnNjKtHer1nc7yEf3uprFoLrXJH1zpi1eSr5WV

Rachel Barri Designs has a new color in her line of “pouches” that look so light and pretty you want one of each. They come in several sizes and shapes AND of course she has adorable canvases to put in the windows of them. Thankfully the one I really liked, the “Citrus Slice” was sold out !! Guess I have to wait ! She has many other items that will tempt you – not a bad thing! https://rachelbarridesigns.com/collections/new-1

Have you joined the Mah Jong craze??? It is played in many needle point shops as a way to learn the game and make new friends. Not surprising that many that play also needle point ! Penny Linn has a new line of Mah Jong canvases – so different and pretty. Of course they also fit in the top of her hinged acrylic box which happens to be a great size to store your Mah Jong tiles ! Love when you can multi task ! https://pennylinn.com/collections/oh-my-mahjong?utm_source=Email&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=7%2F13+OMM+Launch&_kx=95-hSwAYM_w1abxIXjXQMDX2ZPJpMD1KDiXnRxmVLaI.RspkHP

Friends recently did a retreat at Island House Needlepoint in South Norwalk CT. Part of their “swag” was a great bag with their name embroidered on and the bag was made from reclaimed boating sails. The bags feature a full width zipper, web grab handle, and loops for attaching shoulder straps. Inside seams are covered with binding to protect your needlepoint from damage. The zipper is intentionally placed 2″ below the top edge to keep your belongings contained when the bag is open on a table. This would make a wonderful one of a kind gift for any stitcher. https://islandhouseneedlepoint.com/product/project-bag-reclaimed-sailcloth/

So many of us are Lowery Lovers!! Between the variety of colors to the helpful accessories it’s a great product. They have now a new light to attach. The prior light they offered was adjusted by springs like what you think of on an Architects drawing board. Their new one has a flexible gooseneck with a more powerful light and 5 color temperatures along with a dimmer. The controls are on the lamp to easily put on or off and change the light color. They also sell separately a bracket so you can attach the light to a nearby table. The light comes in either black or white. https://www.workstands.com/store#!/Lumina-Lamp/p/836224760

Tips & Tricks: I was recently looking at the box of tacks most places sell to secure your canvas to the stretcher bars. In the box is a blue piece of plastic that you are supposed to use to remove the tacks when you are done – pathetic ! Make your life easy and go to our “Go To” store and buy a simple tool for $7 that will never ruin your fingernails !

Who was that Famous Stitcher? This is Laura Moore of Moore Stitching. She has a B.F.A. in Ballet and later did corporate event planning and communications. A stitcher for more than 35 years she is the creator of those wonderful canvases of recognizable people like Ina Garten, Snoop Dog, Lucy, Audrey Hepburn, Diana Ross…. https://moorestitching.com/

Do you know who this Famous Stitcher is?

The Salty Stitcher
Jul11

What’s Happening at NJNA 7/11/26

Posted on by
Standard

I looked at the calendar and realized 2 weeks had gone by and I needed to do the blog – then I realized it was mid July – how did that happen??? This week is our next meeting – already ! If you have checked out your email you will have gotten one from Noelle (our fearless leader). She announced that our next 2 meetings will be a continuation of our exploration of color ! Melita G will be telling us about her design process and color philosophy. The chapter will be offering Melita’s award winning design at half price. It could be a good stash buster ! Details on getting the instructions are in Noelle’s email and will be discussed at the meeting. Wed night at 7 pm – see you then!

Mid July also means that it’s time for this year’s seminar in Denver CO. The big event starts this week on the 18th and they will be having a new feature of Open Stitching – even if your not a member. Everyone going should have a good time and enjoy all that seminar has to offer.

Yesterday the email came from ANG and we finally got a look at the new Needle Pointers Magazine! I don’t know about you but the first thing I turn to is the Tale of 2 Stitchers and this time in particular. Last month we got to see Jacqui’s piece and this time Cathryn’s Gazebo is in the magazine. Many of us got to watch the process and see her canvas evolve into the masterpiece it became. We were also lucky enough to see it framed. The pictures in the magazine are great but in person – no comparison. The other woman, Suzanne, also did a wonderful job stitching her canvas. We can’t help but be biased though. Check out the magazine online to see all the details – very interesting to read and see the differences.

That email from ANG was packed with great information including the new Quarterly Stitch ! I and several others are stitching our own versions of Marion Scoular’s “The Princess and the Pea”. This piece is all done in Blackwork which is what this quarter’s all about. Blackwork Sampler 2 by Amy Wolfson. Some of the patterns look like they can be adapted to a mattress or two. As soon as I am done here I will be downloading this project. It’s a more complex technique than many of us thought !

If your a fan of Julie Snyder she is coming to Ridgewood Needlepoint to teach canvas embellishment on November 7 & 8. The class is limited to 10 so you need to be quick. They require a deposit so call the store at 201-612-7770. She has published more than 10 books and is a nationally acclaimed needlepoint instructor.

With July being a rather Patriotic month The Needle Pointer has a series of Military Patches you can stitch. A nice way to commemorate family and friends that have served. There are a dozen to choose from. https://theneedlepointer.com/collections/us-military?se_activity_id=174738440434&syclid=d998mfav8rcs73c080c0&utm_campaign=Celebrate+Service+with+a+Handmade+Keepsake_174738440434&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email

If you need a “Grab and Go” small project The Needle Pointer has very cute cocktail charms (fobs) they call “Sips and Stitches”. You have 6 cocktails to choose from in pretty colors. Great little item to put on a hand bag or to carry for some stitching while you wait! Everything is included to both stitch it and finish it. https://theneedlepointer.com/products/cocktail-mini-fob-collection?se_activity_id=175073657074&syclid=d999kerm30jc7390v3o0&utm_campaign=Shake+Up+Your+Style+with+Cute+Cocktail+Charms%21_175073657074&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email

There is nothing more iconic to summer than New England and along with that is Sara Fitz (who happens to be the niece of one of our members! ) She has just dropped a bunch of new canvases, needle minders and brand new project bags ! There is something about her designs that make you smile. She has even collaborated with LL Bean for bedding! Her needlepoint sells out quickly (totally understandable) but many other things in her line make great gifts. https://www.sarafitz.com/collections/needlepoint?page=3

Rachel Barri has some new Mezuzah canvases. A quick stitch and a very lovely gift. Check out her other Judaica items as most people do not associate her with these canvases. She has a great sense of humor on some of the camvases along with her other lovely canvases, such as her bags ! https://rachelbarridesigns.com/collections/judaica?page=1

I hate to say it but… Fall is coming! LOL And before you know it too ! I am stitching a sign for my stitching room “This Is My Happy Place” from Stitch Rock Designs. I got to thinking about other canvases I have to stitch by the same designer and realized Halloween is coming, I should get moving. Then I got several emails saying that Christmas finishing is about to be cut off ! Yikes – it’s coming to fast ! Think about stitching one to two holidays/seasons ahead ! Here are the other items from Stitch Rock in my stash, you might want to revisit your stash in advance of Fall and be ahead of the game! Then again – the end of September is the Autumn Needlepoint Reunion Trade Show! https://stitchrockdesigns.com/

Tips & Tricks: Ugh – Neon Rays, Flair, Frosty Rays….stitching with these beautiful threads can try your patience. They and others shred as you pull them thru the canvas. Yes, you need a shorter length to stitch with than you may like but another help is to burn the ends ! They call them thread burners or zappers – all the same thing. I just purchased a new one (I am sure you can guess where I got it!) and this one is rechargeable. The older ones used a battery. This tool has also gone high tech! This one has a cap to protect the tip and a screen to display the power left. It’s light, fits your hand easily and even comes in pink !!

Who was that Famous Stitcher? This is Emily Oliver, one of the designers under the Rachel Barri Designs company. She is from Virginia Beach and loves classic style designs. Look her up on Rachel Barri’s web site (gotta love the Hot Cocoa). https://rachelbarridesigns.com/collections/emily-oliver-studio

Do you know who this Famous Stitcher is?

Everyone going to Seminar have a Fabulous Time !!

Jun27

What’s Happening at NJNA 6/27/28

Posted on by
Standard

I hope you didn’t miss Jacqui’s last program on color where she tied it all together. If you couldn’t make it, it should be on the web site so you can catch it and realize how you have been picking colors rather blindly all these years. I believe we all have a much better understanding of color and it’s many variations along with how to use it to your advantage on your projects. The color wheel – never leave home without it !!!

Tick – Tock – the ANG Seminar is around the corner – do you have your needlepoint packed yet? July 18 – 23rd in Denver this year. At this point registration is closed and classes are full. So if you missed all the festivities ANG has something new that they just posted a few days ago – Fun Freebies. Go to ANG’s web site and under “Educational Offerings” you will find 11 small projects that are free for the taking. Many are beginner level but there are also several for the experienced stitcher. A great way to make an ornament, use up stash and learn some new stitches. https://www.needlepoint.org/page/fun-freebies?_zs=QhCog1&_zl=oGpoA

All you Bedecked and Bedazzled fans – Ruth has opened up her October Zoom-bellishment class. It will be given on October 17 – 18 from 11 – 4 est. She has 11 canvases, both old and new to choose from. Sign up quick before she runs out of the canvas you like. She has already had 34 people sign up before she announced the class or which canvases she is doing! Die hard fans! https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2026/06/october-zoom-bellishement-2026-is-open/

Stitch By Stitch’s Famous “Mohonk Mountain House Retreat” is coming again. No surprise that it is a lottery as there are so many that are dying to go. I don’t blame them – I went last year and it is an extraordinary event. You will be able to put your name into the lottery in August. The retreat will be from March 14 – 17, 2027 (It will be here in a Flash!).

Want to try a retreat but don’t want to go thru the hassle of a hotel and transportation?? Check out Lindy Stitches. They do a series of “Virtual Retreats”. Stitchers from around the world will be getting together on July 18 – 19 for the “Midsummer Stitch”. This is mostly a cross stitch event but they have classes, shopping opportunities and different rooms to join in stitching with people. At the end they have a session where everyone shows off what they have been stitching. For the price of the ticket it might be a fun thing to try. https://www.accelevents.com/e/midsummer-stitch-2026

Have you tried some of Tilli Thomas’s threads – Essential’s or Milan? Essentials has 243 colors and is so convenient to be able to buy them on the small cards for when you have a small area. Milan has 276 colors and so soft to work with. Now you can buy both, threads on cards AND in skeins. The skeins have 30 years compared to the cards with 10 yards. Stitch By Stitch in NY carries both but check out your LNS. https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/collections/planet-earth-essentials-1

Gone Stitching has a new book “Fine I’ll Do It Myself” This is in addition to their other witty titles and can now be preordered. This time the book includes canvas samples to stitch and the book has a storage pocket for what you have completed. They expect shipment soon. https://www.gonestitching.net/products/ill-do-it-myself

The rather new store Mrs. Meshugga closes tomorrow 6/28 at 4 pm – but it’s a good thing. They are in a small space that is part of a larger space with several vendors. They are now taking over the entire space and are closing for a short time to renovate. In the mean time they are having a Stitch & Swim event. When you pay the fee they give you the location to come to on LBI (for those non NJ people – Long Beach Island!) Of course there is a limited number of seats so don’t be disappointed if it’s sold out. We will have to watch for her Grand Reopening. https://www.mrsmeshugga.com/pages/our-story

New LNS Alert !! Lucy Lane Needlepoint is opening today 6/27/26 in New Providence NJ. From the few pictures on Instagram it looks like a big and bright space. Looking forward to see this new shop when they open the doors.

Needlepoint .com has a new “Stars & Stripes” collection just for the 250th celebration. There are 18 designs – all adorable. Check them out – there is always next year ! https://needlepoint.com/collections/two-sister-stars?_kx=SpNrwJYeSg8JHGV3vDRNkpeUD67Ddf2hdz1HBTATTO0.TxAVmM&utm_campaign=2026_06_25+July+4th&utm_klaviyo_id=01EY735XHE675Z0Z1C4Z7SB8DK&utm_medium=campaign&utm_source=Klaviyo

Tips & Tricks: Confess – how many needle minders do you really have??? And Then – where are they all ??? I know that I have them all over the place. They are in every WIP, on metal carts – every where but the refrigerator. A solution to the madness – no, not stop buying them – our favorite place to shop – Amazon. (17.7″ x 11.8″ 2 Pack Metal Magnetic Board – Magnet Bulletin Board to Display Magnetic Letters Numbers Animal, Poetry, Spice Jars, Notes, Photos, Suitable for Wall, Refrigerator, Cubicle, Cabinet) I leaned it on a stand to prop up a picture or frame and perfection ! Works great !!! (and I am glad you get 2 of them as there is overflow !)

Who was that Famous Stitcher? I am sure you all got this one correct – Brooke Shields. She says she “doesn’t leave home without her needlepoint”. She says it keeps her calm so she doesn’t spin out of control” I think we all do it partly for the same reason !!

Do you know who this Famous Stitcher is?

Everyone have a wonderful July 4th celebration – Happy Birthday USA !!

Jun13

What’s Happening at NJNA 6/13/26

Posted on by
Standard

This is the last lecture this month on the Color Wheel with Jacqui !! This month is all about the names on the back that I never noticed before – Triad, Tetrad, Split Complementary and more. This has been a wonderful series – a big Thank You to Jacqui for opening our minds to so many ways to look at color !

One of the best parts of being a member of ANG is the Needle Pointers magazine. So many great articles but I am willing to bet that the first one everyone turns to is the Tale Of Two Stitchers. Always fascinating to see how a canvas can be interpreted so many different ways. They are in immediate need of stitchers for a particular canvas – “Woodland Fantasy” by Judi & Co. The canvas is 12 X 12 on 18 mesh canvas. They want to be sure there is enough time to stitch the canvas so they need volunteers very soon on this one. The stitched canvas must be turned in by January 5, 2027 as it will be featured in the May/June 2027 issue of the magazine. Anyone that would be interested in stitching this canvas and/or another one for the column should contact Linda M at TOTS@needlepoint.org and she will give you the information needed.

In looking at the new email from ANG – I never realized how many Certification Programs they offer all designed to help members expand their knowledge, skills, and expertise in needle arts. From Judging to apprising to teaching or becoming a Master / Senior Master Needle Pointer. So much to explore. https://www.needlepoint.org/general/custom.asp?page=CertificationPrograms

Do you love your System 4 equipment? Don’t look to your LNS for them any longer, though they might be selling what they have on a sale. System 4 is no longer selling to shops !! They are now selling directly to customers. I recently used their web site for a replacement part and a bag and it was easy to use. When I had a question I called and the lovely woman that answered the phone couldn’t be nicer or more helpful. They have other pieces besides the table and floor stand. They also still do repairs. https://www.needleworksystem4.com/

Stitch By Stitch in NY has a new program called “Needle Points”. Nothing complicated – starting June 1 for every $1 you spend they give you 1 point. For every 200 points you get $5 off your next purchase. If you refer a friend and they sign up you also get $5 off. They are also planning on having “Double Point Days” in the future. This store is way too easy to rack up many points !! https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/pages/needle-points-rewards

The Canvas Crawl is almost here !!! It starts June 18th thru the 21st. There are more than 30 stores participating this year. Many familiar names are on the list, check it out : https://www.canvascrawl.com/2026-participants Each store you go to you fill out a form for a raffle. They have 2 bags filled with “stuff” all from the participating stores. Also, check with the store your going to visit as they have trunk shows and specials etc.

The Fabulous Bedecked and Bedazzled has updated their APP for iStitches. Apparently the platform she used made major changes and so she needed to completely overhaul the app for the 5 books ! The stitches themselves haven’t changed. These are the same stitch collections found in the original iStitches apps and books. What has changed is the experience. You can now save favorite stitches in different folders. She has also included a “Where is that stitch? “Master Index so it’s easier to find. https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/istitches/

Are you ready to go on a retreat??? I have found 2 recently. Mrs. Meshugga is going to Cancun Mexico and wants you to come along. Jan 29 thru Feb 2 2027 at the Live Aqua Beach Resort. A total of 60 stitchers for 5 days and the resort is all inclusive including alcohol. There will be 2 classes by LeighAnne Tucci, Mahjong lessons and open play plus a swag bag. Reserve your spot here: https://www.mrsmeshugga.com/products/sunshine-stitches-retreat?omnisendContactID=68c4811d7570f9d21c5c1551&utm_campaign=campaign%3A+GENERAL+LIST+-+RETREAT+LAUNCH+%286a1dd21d497063d57ed301db%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=omnisend

The second retreat is a replay of the Fireside Spring Thaw Retreat on April 24th and 25th 2027. It will be held again at the Aronimink Gold Club. I heard only great things about the one they did earlier this year. Too soon to sign up right now but make a note to check back with them.

Gone Stitching in Bergenfield has a new class on Sunday August 23rd. Call the shop as it’s a first come first serve seating. The class comes complete with canvas, threads etc and even snacks and lunch! 201- 385- 2100 – Very cute canvas !!!

The Needlepointer has a new subscription for a quarterly box and it includes a small project, threads, guide, accessories, self finishing materials, tutorials and some “gifts”. Each box will be a surprise. You can choose from 18 count or 13 count and the next one comes out in August. https://theneedlepointer.com/products/quarterly-subscription-box?se_activity_id=173799145714&syclid=d8mtigof33bs73aot9mg&utm_campaign=Unbox%20Exciting%20New%20Projects%20at%20Your%20Door%20Each%20Quarter!_173799145714&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email&selling_plan=6009749746&variant=48586161651954

The Needle Pointer also has another 12 month Club called Ocean Dreams. Each month starting in August you get canvas, threads, guide and finishing instructions and in the final shipment your get the display frame to complete the mobile. https://theneedlepointer.com/products/ocean-dreams-mobile-a-journey-beneath-the-waves?se_activity_id=173982089458&syclid=d8mtl6gf33bs73aotda0&utm_campaign=Dive%20into%20Dreamland%20With%20Our%20Lastest%20Club!_173982089458&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email&selling_plan=6635782386&variant=49354705305842

It’s time to start those patriotic canvases, after all the nation doesn’t turn 250 every year !! Stitch By Stitch in NY is having 2 Patriotic Trunk Shows this month – Raymond Crawford’s Patriotic Collection and my favorite – Kangaroo Paw. Just love those stars in many patterns. https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/pages/trunk-show-schedule

Stitch Stash has something brand new – hand made Linen covered boxes by House of Cartonage. They come in several styles and colors with an opening to display your needlework. https://stitch-stash.com/collections/house-of-cartonnage-boxes

Tips & Tricks: Have you ever wanted to do your own matching cord for around your finished ornament and other projects? It’s not a hard thing but this makes it even easier !! It’s battery operated, no cranking. It gives you the ability to make 2, 3 or 4 ply cords along with fringe, tassels and way more than I will want to deal with! https://lacis.com/catalog/data/AC_CordAndRopeMaking.html

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That is Kate of Ivy Thread Needlepoint. For her, this is a side gig, she is a strategist from 9 to 5 and needlepoint is her creative outlet. She only started in 2021 and lives in Florida with her golden retriever. If you go to her web site you will not only see her adorable designs but she is also doing a “Tiny Animals” club. https://ivythreadneedlepoint.com/

Do you know who this Famous Stitcher is?

The weather is starting to get better – enjoy the sun and warmth.

May24

What’s Happening at NJNA 5/23/26

Posted on by
Standard

Memorial Day Weekend and with weather like this it’s perfect to stitch the weekend away. I know we need the rain but it is soggy out there ! Thankfully this past week our meeting was all on Zoom and I believe they recorded it. It was another “you didn’t want to miss” program by Jacqui !!! So interesting and lots of questions as we went along. She was showing us that by taking a picture of your project in black and white how to tell if there was balance in the color choices. This opened a whole new avenue of understand on how to pick colors for your project OR how your framer can completely change the look of your project with the matting and frame. If you missed the program watch for it to be posted on our web site. Next month Jacqui will be talking about other parts of the color wheel – triads, tetrads, complements, etc. I had no idea there was so much information on a color wheel !! This will be the last of the series on color so don’t miss !!! Of course you need to be a member to enjoy all this – we love new members !!

If you have not heard about “America’s Tapestry” then check out their web site https://www.americastapestry.com/exhibitions In honor of our nation’s 250th anniversary you will be able to see this amazing collection of tapestries of the original 13 colonies starting in June. Virginia is the first that will be on display until September. In October New Jersey can be seen at the Passaic County Arts Center in Hawthorne NJ. Information with times and location are on the web site. This project is just amazing to see. I went to an event that had a piece of it there set up on a slate frame and anyone could stitch on it. I can’t wait to go see it finished. Below is the NJ piece called “Women on the home front”. On the web site below the picture is an audio description. Poke around the web site as there is a lot of interesting tidbit’s.

Women on the home front

Island House Needlepoint in Norwalk CT is having another retreat on July 10th and there may still be a seat or 2 left. Several of the NJNA members are going and having been to their first retreat I guarantee they will have a great time. The project that comes with the retreat is a 3D London Phone Booth. The class is being taught by Deb Bryan (who I see at more and more store events in other states). She has a certificate in Technical Hand Embroidery from the Royal School of Needlework among other things. If you can’t make the retreat look thru the web site. They are now selling the bag I received as part of the “swag” for going to the first retreat along with other really nice bags. She is selling more and more items so check back often. https://islandhouseneedlepoint.com/

Since we are all bag ladies to start with – KC Needlepoint has a new line of bags – Becco Bags! They come in an assortment of sizes and shapes and colors BUT they are also offering a neat new “Round Canvas Self Adhesive Patch”. You stitch a very small canvas (and yes they sell a bunch of them to fit) then insert the canvas in the “patch”. The patch sticks to the bag with Velcro. You can move them all around or swap them for an occasion. https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/collections/becco-bags?page=1&sort_by=price-ascending

Still need options? Look to Stitch Stash in Delaware – she has very cute Ric Rac bags in different versions. In expensive in case you need more than one !! (And you do!) https://stitch-stash.com/collections/ric-rac-bags

New Thread Alert: Vineyard Silk has a new product – Silk Thirteen. As the name implies it’s made with 13 count canvas in mind. Fireside Stitchery is carrying it and when they get the full line you will have 199 colors to choose from. It’s 100% Chinese Silk that they say feels buttery to the touch, has a beautiful sheen and great coverage. https://firesidestitchery.com/products/vineyard-silk-13-mesh-000-199

We have a relatively new needle point store called “Mrs. Meshugga” in our area. She has shared space in a place called The General Store in Maplewood NJ. The General Store is closing but the great news is that Mrs. Meshugga is taking over the entire space! Sometime in the summer the place will close and she will be renovating to have more canvases, threads etc. As she puts it ” Your WIP pile is about to get even more out of control” We wish her luck and success as there is nothing better than another destination to shop. https://www.mrsmeshugga.com/collections/great-for-beginners-1

I just passed around an email from Moore Stitching – they are having a BOGO 50% off sale for the holiday. Yes, we all have too much but they are so adorable and quick to stitch up ! Who can resist Lucy and Ina or Martha and all the others???? https://moorestitching.com/collections/modern-muses

I know, I know – I just tempted you again BUT – if you need to make room in your over flowing stash Rittenhouse Needlepoint has just started a destashing service ! You take a picture or 2, go to their web site and answer a few questions then up load the picture. It goes out to their platform where you can buy and or sell. You set the price and get 80% of the sale in cash OR you can choose store credit and get 110% of the sale price. They went live this past Thursday. I just looked and there were already 17 pages to look thru ! https://destash.rittenhouseneedlepoint.com/about/info?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=email&_kx=QNbnum1iUEN5weUC3DuK75aOlVx0Dud-BR0a603hRFw.TU8N4e

In honor of the holiday (or be a head of the game for July 4th) Old World Designs in CA is having a Hot Dog Party on June 27th. They will be having hot dogs for lunch and you can stitch with friends while working on your Hot Dog kit which comes with canvas, guide and threads. If that doesn’t make you smile ….. https://www.oldworlddesigns.com/module/class/637985/hot-dog-party

Tips & Tricks: You know supplies are getting tight when a store starts to create their own stretcher bars! The Needle Works in Austin TX is now selling 3D printed stretcher bars. They are compatible with the wood ones, you can use tacks or staples on them and soon they will come with the size printed on them. Call the store as I didn’t see them on the web site. (512) 451-6931 https://theneedleworks.com/

Who was that Famous Stitcher? This is Lucy Millet the owner and founder of Mopsey Designs. She started the company in Maine in 2020 and named it after her great – grandmother, Mopsey. She had plenty of inspiration from other women in her family and studied art therapy and print making.

Do you know who this Famous Stitcher is?

Happy Memorial Day

May9

What’s Happening at NJNA 5/9/26

Posted on by
Standard

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

Posted on by
Standard

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

Posted on by
Standard

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?