We had a very interesting meeting this week. Cheryl Christian is both a NAN and EGA certified master judge and appraiser and she spoke on what a judge looks for when you enter a needlework competition such as the Woodlawn show. (I will never drag my thread across the back of the canvas again!) She spoke of little things we would actually know (but did it the “easy way”) and things we never would have thought of. It was a wonderful eye opening talk. She also left us with the thought that “Color gets the credit but Value does the work!”

Welcome to our newest member, Janice L. from MO. This is a great time to become a member, you get to enjoy the end of the year celebrations and your first in line for all the exciting things we will be doing in 2023 ! Don’t forget – any member can put out some information on the blog. If your not sure how – several of us can walk you thru it. Just another reason to join in the fun!!

Needlepoint Shop News:

House of Needlepoint is SOLD !! The lucky people in CT now have the new Stitch Stash in it’s place. This store has been in business for 30 years so it’s no wonder the owners were ready to retire. The new name of the store is “Stitch Stash Darien”. The employees of HON will stay on and now we get to see all the creative things that Stitch Stash of Delaware has to offer. The DE store is going no where – yes the owner is going to be back and forth so hopefully you catch her in either store.

Beyond Knits and Needles has OPENED in their new location in Verona NJ. Good Luck Anne Marie and Alaina !

Stitched Up has opened in CA. and what a cute looking store. A friend has already been there and is checking it out – sounds and looks like we all need a road trip !!

Best for last – Edwardian Needle – Tony is coming back !! He was here for a whirlwind 4 days this month but he and Luis will be back in the spring and wait until you see what’s coming. Tony is going to do “Back To Basics Part II” along with a canvas embellishment class and a project that he hasn’t decided on yet. Luis is going to be doing the Shibori Ribbon Butterfly AND “Lady Gaga” !!!!! That is a fish with attitude! Dates are March and April – check with Pam for details.

So – Today was LNS DAY. Did you help out the LNS in your area today ?? Did you hear about the big give away by System 4 ???? Let’s hope that the same offer comes out next year. If you didn’t hear about it, the offer was, if you make a purchase thru that store you can be entered in the national drawing for a System 4 stand and accessory of your choice. How great is that ?!?!?

While we are buying not looking – or is it the other way around?? Colour Compliments is having their Annual Sale. If your a “threadaholic” I am sure you have been thru their web site. The colors are so stunningly vivid it’s hard to stay away. If you have been looking for a reason to get something now is the time. https://colourcomplements.com/product-category/sale

New – New – New – from the Reunion Show in TX

Eye Candy has something I have never seen before – a Mexican Nativity group. How colorful !!

I was checking out the Wool and the Floss web site and they had a bunch of new canvases from the show. Apparently bar carts are a new “thing!” They come in various holiday formats. Some of the others are just plain pretty:

Best of all on their web site is this needle minder:

Someone gave me a copy of an interview with our own Vicky Witterschein in the Fall edition of NANthology. Vicky is a newly certified NAN teacher. Who knew she has been working at the Edwardian Needle for 9 years already. She also use to be an elementary school teacher. Such a talented person who loves garden themes in her designs. She has a new class at the Edwardian, it’s filling up quickly so if your interested you need to sign up soon. It’s called Shining Sea and has some challenging and interesting techniques to it.

Wrap you head around this – Absolutely Needlepoint in Miami FL has a customer that has just finished her 2nd Jean Smith RUG !!!! The only thing you can say is WOW ! So beautiful. Now that had to “Take Forever”

Tips and Tricks: A picture is worth a thousand words

Who was that famous stitcher? Erica Wilson “America’s first lady of Stitchery. She graduated from the Royal School of Needlework in London and went on to become a designer based in New York. She also designed wall coverings and greeting cards.

Can you guess who this famous stitcher is?

Yikes – 63 more days until Christmas !!

This month’s meeting should inspire everyone to clean up their needlepoint acts! We will be hearing from Cheryl Christian, she is a certified NAN needlepoint judge and appraiser. She will be telling us what judges look for when they evaluate a piece.

The new Needle Pointers Magazine is out and Melita G is in it again ! Starting on page 36 you will find the beautiful bargello’s designed by Gail Stafford with Melita’s stitch guide, diagrams and models. The magazine this month has so much more though. The Tale of Two Stitchers is such a contrast – amazing how 2 people can see things so differently. Don’t miss David McCaskill’s article “Tips When Using Watercolours” . There is a lot more to read after that. Get a cup of tea or coffee and relax over a great magazine.

ANG has also release the matrix of classes for the 2023 Seminar in Atlanta GA. I have yet to find any pictures of the projects but at least you can see if one of your favorite instructors will be there. https://ang.informz.net/ang/data/images/ANG%202023%20Class%20Matrix.pdf

And we are not done with ANG just yet – the new 50 for 50 project is out – Toni Gerdes  has created a special Stitch Guide design for this fundraising campaign called “Heartstrings”. So pretty !! I can’t wait to see what the next item will be in the campaign.

LNS News:

Beyond Knits and Needles has postponed their grand opening in their new location – stay tuned.

Stitching Fox in South Carolina is opening another store, this time in Morganton NC which is in the western part of the state. Good luck on this 2nd store. Also, check out their web site for an interesting new club – 12 Days of Christmas Candy Canes by Danji. Over the next year you get a new project a month along with stitch guide, beads, ribbons, thread etc and it all starts Nov 1. https://www.stitchingfox.com/products/candy-cane-club?_pos=4&_sid=3fc43b58b&_ss=r

A new store is open as of Friday in the Bay Area of CA – can’t wait to see what they plan to keep us all on the edge of our seats with! Check out their web site, it will be live soon. Stitched Up Needleworks

House of Needlepoint in CT is having a contest – a turkey of a contest ! Ask for a canvas in either 13 or 18 count and “Anything Goes!” Return by 11/16 and there will be a vote ! Be imaginative !

House of Needlepoint also is having a trunk show with some new and different canvases. They are featuring PLD Designs for the month of October. There is also another offer – any series of 8 or more canvases is also 20% off. They have quite a few to pick from but check out their web site – they do some great projects. House of Needlepoint – Needlework and Stitching Services in Darien, CT

Uh Oh – Bargain Alert !! Old World Designs is giving 50% off all tote bags. I want one of each! Old World Designs Needlepoint Menlo Park Bay Area

We all have seen the wild and crazy stitching concepts that Ruth Schmuff is known for – and they always have to have beads !!!! She has a new club that is so not her usual Bedecked and Beadazzled. The artist that created the canvases is Emily Garces and the stitch guides were done by Mary Legallet. The club is called “Tea Cup Birds” – so different and adorable. https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/product/teacup-birds/

Local Needlepoint Shop Day is coming up quickly – Saturday October 22nd – the day to get out there and support our brick and mortar stores!! Stitch By Stitch is having a truck show by Alice Peterson/Gayla Elliott for this month but they have even more than that in the store – new totes! Check out some of the new things they have to offer:

There was an exhibit in Tarrytown NY called “Women’s Work”. It was an historical look at how the domestic craft tradition’s influenced contemporary women artist’s. On display was one of Martha Washington’s needlepoint cushions along with antique quilts. Unfortunately it finished in late Sept. but you can watch an online tour done by CBS TV: “Women’s Work”: Art by women, known and unknown – CBS News

Tips and Tricks:

Do you know and understand about “thread nap”? Per Diversions Needlepoint: A thread spun from natural fibers will feel smooth running one way and rough running the other.  If one runs one’s finger down the length of the thread, and then turns the thread around and runs it down again, one way will feel smoother than the other. One should always thread the needle so that the needle is pulling the thread WITH its nap (as opposed to AGAINST ITS NAP) through the canvas. Primarily, if one is pulling the thread against its nap, the increased friction will gradually pull fibers from the thread. By the end of the thread length, the thread will be diminished in volume and this will show up in the stitching. Canvas coverage is adversely affected. Additionally, the appearance, sheen, and even the color of the stitched area may also be affected. What if I have trouble finding the nap? Gently pass the thread underneath your nose! This area is very sensitive (assuming one doesn’t have a mustache) and can detect even the slightest difference in nap. CAVEATS: DO NOT ATTEMPT THIS METHOD IF ONE IS WEARING MAKE-UP OR HAS RECENTLY DRUNK FROM THE TOILET. 

Finally: Which threads should one check for nap? One should check anything that contains spun thread made of natural fibers: SIlk and Ivory, Appleton wool, all silk and cotton flosses.

Who was that Famous Stitcher?  With that giant blue hair who doesn’t recognize Marge Simpson ?!?!?

Can you guess who this Famous Stitcher is?

Our meeting this week was full of information !!!! We caught up on the chapter Bargello projects and some came a long way and hit the finish line. Others are WIP’s but I am sure they will get to the end soon. All are beautiful and so well stitched. Next month is not to be missed – we will have a talk by a judge associated with Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House. She will be speaking about how they go about judging a piece of needlework and what they look for. Should be interesting – we will know what to fix and how !

Welcome to our 2 new members, Donna F. and Karen C. !! We actually got to see some of their show and tell – you go ladies ! Hope you have as much fun as we do.

It’s official we are in the “Autumnal Equinox” – the year is flying by ! This also means NJNA will be doing the Festival of Trees again this year. It’s held at the Environmental Center in Basking Ridge during the month of December. We need to borrow ornaments for the tree we decorate. If you can check your vast array of ornaments and lend us a few we would be grateful. The theme this year is Places and Seasons so they don’t have to be Xmas related.

More exciting news – our own Mally Becker has had the 2nd in her series of books published – “The Counterfeit Wife”. Her first was “The Turncoat’s Widow” which got great reviews and yes – you can buy it on Amazon! We all wish Mally another hit with this new book.

It was discussed at the meeting that the 2023 SOTM for NJNA is going to be the ANG SOTM. ANG chose our own Melita Glavin’s creation Crescent Journey – how could we not stitch it?? Besides – it’s stunning ! She has 5 colorways – become a member and join us for the fun !!!

It seems that many of you at the meeting were not aware of classes going on at The Edwardian Needle. Well, while I was there this week I got all the information and will try to put in Pam’s future events as well. Here is the current class schedule:

1.Back To Basics with Tony Minieri – If you were in the class almost 3 years ago you only had half of the class. Covid hit and finally he has scheduled the 2nd half for Thurs and Fri Oct 6 and 7. Class is from 9:30 to 4:00

2. Shibori Ribbon Butterfly – Luis Nunez will be teaching this class with those beautiful ribbons we all saw in Noelle’s Owl piece in the Tale of Two Stitcher’s article. This class is on Sat Oct 8th from 10 to 4. The body is beads and the ribbon looks so luxurious – I can’t wait.

3. Studio Time with Tony – Got questions? He has answers ! He will be at the store from noon to 5 PM on Sat Oct 8th.

4. Chicago Patch II with Tony – No problem if you didn’t do Chicago Patch I This class is on Sunday Oct 9th from 9:30 to 4. There are at least 2 colorways to choose from.

Since class size is limited for these 2 and Tony has only a limited amount of time – please call the store at 973-743-9833 ASAP to get a seat.

The other upcoming class is by our own Vicky Witterschein. She is doing an original design called “Shining Sea”. If you widen the picture you will see how many different effects she has put into this piece, from stump work to ribbons to many other forms of texture and don’t forget that big pearl in the shell. Her class will be done over 3 Sundays in the store. Nov 13th, Dec 11th and Jan 22nd.

FOMO ALERT !!!! The needlepoint store Beyond Knits and Needles is moving !! How many hated walking up those stairs????? They are not moving far away either. Their new location is 450 Bloomfield Ave in Verona and thankfully they are in suite #101 !!! The Grand Opening 10/8. There is parking in the back of the building or meters on Bloomfield Ave. They are just past the split in the road for Claremont Ave. Good luck in the new location to Anne Marie and Alaina. Beyond Knits And Needles – Welcome

Chaparral Needlework is also moving it’s store. Presently they are in Houston and are taking a big ride to relocate in Dallas TX. This should be happening sometime in the middle to late October. Chaparral Needleworks – NDLPT.com

It’s coming to that time of year – The Texas Needlepoint trade show which is called Autumn Needlepoint Reunion. The LNS’s will be getting all the new canvases and gadgets for us to go crazy over soon. The list of who will be there is a Who’s Who in the needlepoint world. From A Stitch in Time – CA all the way to Zecca – MA and there are just as many buyers registered. The market is open Sat 10/15 & Sun 10/16. I would love to be a fly in that hotel !

Some of the new market items were done virtually ahead of time and Stitch By Stitch in NY gave a sneak preview of some of the new canvases to come. Ny Needlepoint | Stitch By Stitch Larchmont, NY | United States (stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com)

The next best thing to the trade show is that they barely get back and it’s “Local Needlepoint Shop Day” This year it’s October 22nd so we have to get out there and support our LNS’s !!

After 18 years the well known store Luv2Stitch closed it’s doors in June. Dale Lenci said he wanted to retire but you could still get things finished thru his long time employee Rhonda. Well, some people are not meant for retirement ! HE’s BACK !!! Dale has decided to do an interesting new project. As an artist at heart he will now be creating one of a kind creations of needle art. He will then be auctioning them off with a percentage of the proceeds going to charity. More details are coming in October !!

I recently got the chance to explore a little of the Fashion District in NYC. If you have never done this take a friend and make a day of it. The trims and embellishments you can find are mind bending. I was in 2 stores and there was so much to look at you couldn’t see it all. I didn’t know there were that many feathers in so many shapes, colors and sizes. Here is just a taste of what can be explored:

Our craft has hit the magazine again – check out the fall issue of Southern Living magazine. It has an interesting article on Jessica Chaney, the owner of Lycette Designs (her great grandmother’s name). She is looking to show a younger generation what we already know about needlepoint, how great a craft it is. Here is the article but the magazine has more pictures. This Florida Native Is Bringing Back Needlepoint In a Big Way (southernliving.com)

I read that a small knitting and stitching shop in NYC is having a trunk show of a designer I had not seen before. West Village Knit & Needle is featuring canvases by “Fire and Iris” – something new and different. If you look at the web site and hover over a canvas it changes to show you what it looks like stitched !! Check them out for some cute new ideas. Fire and Iris Designs – Fire And Iris Designs

If your a fan of Zecca then you know of the matching ribbons that can be had with some of Karen Hennessey’s projects. Where does she get those fabulous ribbons????? Try Renaissance Ribbons ! Amazing selection and the colors are just so stunning – you want it all. They have both ribbon and webbing along with kits to make your own bags, dog collars and monthly clubs. So much to choose from it’s amazing. Designer Ribbons | Sewing Kits| Webbing – Renaissance Ribbons

Tips and Tricks: This comes from Diversions Needlepoint in Denver CO:

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That was Rick Prosser. He stopped counting when he hit his 800th piece and has gone on to win several awards for his art even after a diagnosis of cancer in his jaw. Truly amazing man with so many accomplishments. You can read about him here: https://www2.ljworld.com/news/general-news/2022/jun/01/cancer-diagnosis-led-lawrence-man-to-needlework-decades-ago-at-age-80-hes-still-perfecting-his-art/?fbclid=IwAR2sn0zgNFHUlkdjcyv2cOon1ok0baoF60qeMy4bVGkhviUwnmE5HE4bczk

Can you guess who this Famous Stitcher is?

Hope everyone is stitching away on the chapter Bargello project. This months meeting will be the last one to show off your finish or display your progress. There are so many colorful and varied projects being stitched that I am sure we are all anxious to see how they are all coming.

Seminar’s for both ANG and EGA are now in the history books. A good time was had by all for the most part and everyone is looking forward to next years events. ANG has now opened their new fund raising initiative 50 for 50. They will be offering various items thru out the year to raise funds for marketing to get new members, expand their educational opportunities thru distance learning and for the wonderful Needle Pointer’s magazine. Check out the web site to make a donation and see what is new to the fund raising effort. American Needlepoint Guild, Inc.

The year is flying by – it’s already after Labor Day!!! Time to put those white slacks away !! It’s also time to enjoy the last bits of summer and get ready for fall. Aside from the cute pumpkins and Halloween items (which are always fun to stitch) this year seems to be going toward homey type canvases with lots of patterns.

Stitch By Stitch in NY has a trunk show by PLD and these too are calm colorful comfy canvases. Does one look familiar? It was done by our own Linda M in Needle Pointer Magazine’s column “A Tale of Two Stitchers”. The 3 panel Landscape is just stunning.

David McCaskill is doing a Zoom Canvas Painting class. His wonderful humor and amazing talent should make this a great class to attend. “As I approach the end of my winter years, I would like to share my knowledge and techniques to the younger generation (anyone younger than 77). And to those wishing to paint and stitch ” Sign up on his web site for the three hour zoom class which has a max of 25 people each. https://www.needlepointdavid.com/product-page/copy-of-learn-to-paint-a-canvas

One of the many stitches we do on a canvas is the Cross Stitch. Well, The artist Raquel Rodrigo in Spain has taken this stitch to another level. She is using thick cotton cord on metal grids to create street art. Imagine walking down the street to find the walls are covered in beautiful embroidery which appears to be woven into the very fabric of the city. Artist Raquel Rodrigo Brings More Color To The Streets Of Madrid With Her Elegantly Designed Floral Cross-Stitch Patterns (awesomeinventions.com)

Tips and Tricks

Do you get crazy dealing with beads?? Try this scoop to make taking them out of the container and putting them back in the tube easier with fewer on the floor !! Looks similar to what the waiter takes all those crumbs from where my husband sat when we had dinner!

There is a new way to carry your stitching tools around and it even holds your phone !!! Of course everything is on Amazon and this one is by SMA*STA. It is actually designed as a pencil case but works wonderfully for our tools. The magnet inside it makes it stand up on a table and the front can actually hold your phone too. Thank you Marge!

I know, I have heard it before – we are getting older – so what ?!?!? So we need a bit of help at times seeing !!! Yikes Try these – Bunny Eyez ! They are “cheaters “(reading glasses) that tilt and flip for when your looking down to stitch – Amazon of course !

Who was that Famous Stitcher? I am sure you all know Tina Fey from her sketch work on SNL and her wonderful impression of Sarah Palin among others. She is a writer, producer and playwright all while being a mother of 2. When she has time to stitch is beyond me !

Can you guess who this Famous Stitcher is?

The world is in mourning for HRH Queen Elizabeth II – Rest In Peace.

The regular NJNA meeting was canceled for the month of August. The meeting room at the library where the in person meeting is usually held was unavailable on our usual time not to mention many were coming back from seminar so we will be back again in Sept.

The 50th ANG Seminar has finished with what sounds like a wonderful time that was had by all. They all look so busy in the pictures they barely must have had time to check out the Tucson landscape.

At the closing banquet they announced a new fund raiser for this next year – “The 50 for 50 – Friends of ANG”. They are asking members to make a $50 donation which will give you the access to take advantage of various exclusive needlepointing items. They gave a sneak peak at 2 items but claim there are many more to come. The Marilyn Owen guide will be a download of diagrams, photos and history of the first 50 years of ANG and it will start off with a stitch from the 1972 magazine. The other item pictured is a beautiful design by Toni Gerdes that will be offered during the year. A nice way to keep the organization going and something new and exciting to look forward to all year long.

If anyone that was visiting Tuscon had the time to take a side trip – BeStitched in Scottsdale has a new club they could have checked out. A Christmas Dress Club. Only 4 in the series and it comes with a stitch guide and an option for threads. They look like there are an infinite number of ways to stitch these fun dresses. https://bestitchedneedlepointshop.com/collections/clubs-series-1/products/christmas-dress-club

If you need a different holiday then check out Nimble Needle in Atlanta – they are having a Valentine’s Day Cookie Club. This one is 8 months long and they cute as can be.

If you are a fan of Seinfeld then you should check out Judy Tasch. She has wonderful canvases and needleminders. Sign up for her emails as she also has periodic sales that can’t be beat. Judy Tasch Needlepoint

Lani has some new canvases that I would never have thought were hers. Stitch By Stitch in NY has these new items that are perfectly timed for the season coming. Ny Needlepoint | Stitch By Stitch Larchmont, NY | United States (stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com)

Tips and Tricks: Heard of a “Stitchy Stand”? Pockets galore for storage while your stitching and it had the perfect angle to hold a chart. It folds up and the cover actually comes off to clean it. It’s 5.25″ x 7.25″ x 12.5″ and comes in a drawstring bag. Stitchy Stand | Lori Holt of Bee in my Bonnet Co. for It’s Sew Emma #ISE-824 | Fat Quarter Shop

I really don’t want to say this but… many of us are getting older and our sight is not what it once was. This is why they make “cheaters” for us to see those holes in the canvas better. Yes I have them too and mine get prints and dust etc all the time so check out “Peepers”. No liquid to spill or get messy – just a neat way to clean those magnifying glasses. You can also get replacement pads. Yes – Amazon !

Who was that Famous Stitcher? He is Hugh Bonneville AKA Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham in Downton Abbey.

Can you guess who this Famous Stitcher is?

Congratulations to Melita Glavin. She received the President’s Award at the ANG 2022 Seminar in Tucson AZ for “A Spring Sampler” It’s a beautiful 9″ X 12″ band sampler with 21 bands each with a different stitch.

BUT – being the over achiever that Melita is – her design “Crescent Journey” also was chosen to be the ANG 2023 Stitch of the Month. You go Melita !! We are so happy to have you as a member of our chapter and we are looking forward to stitching this piece.

Well, after reading the news in the Rittenhouse news letter – thank goodness for counted pieces. Rittenhouse wanted to share the delays they know about for painted canvas in the industry so their customers can plan accordingly. Their acrylic finisher has also let them know that they are putting a hold on any new orders – they just can’t keep up with all the finishing being requested. Apparently we are all to prolific with our stitching. Here is the list Rittenhouse has knowledge of:

By now you should have the new edition of Needlepointers Magazine. There are several very interesting articles such as the one on Stumpwork and they answer the burning question on why it’s called that. There is also the cover design that looks like an amazing challenge to stitch. Later in the magazine is the intricate piece by Sue Reed. Another a fabulous counted piece. Of course there is much more – a great read !

New from Planet Earth – they are now making those wonderful zip jewelry cases in Gold !!! I also found something I had not seen before – a pen box. Stitch By Stitch in NY has it along with an insert you can buy to give it slots. They have new zip cases that are great for sunglasses or stitching accessories. They are also making pouches with windows and ones to roll up for travel. Then there are adorable coin purses which Sara Fitz’s Gingham Crab canvas fits perfectly. Check out all their wonderful accessories and order from your LNS. Accessories || Leather & Fabric (planetearthfiber.com)

Hedgehog Needlepoint makes those wonderful travel tag’s for almost any destination you can think of along with combo’s to make a tour – did you know they also make matching needleminders??? Genius !! Shop – Hedgehog Needlepoint

Are you or do you know of someone that is going to become a Grandparent soon? Check out Penny Linn Designs. They have beautiful canvases for this occasion along with destinations, bags, needleminders and all sorts of great items. Get a beverage and don’t hurry thru the web site. Penny Linn Designs

New Store Alert !! Actually – 2 new stores have opened in the Sunshine State. If your in North Miami try out SBT Stitches – https://sbtstitches.com

The second store is near Orlando – Novella Needlepoint http://novellaneedlepoint.com

Tips and Tricks: This is the season of seminar’s and with classes come instructions. A friend of mine had a great mesh metal stand that packs rather flat for transport. Being metal your magnet works great on it and it comes with 2 of it’s own. Where can you get this gem? At everyone’s favorite place to shop – Amazon https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B074R61KDD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Now that many will be looking for counted designs after that eye opening news from Rittenhouse – that means following a pattern. If you have ever done Diane Herman’s beautiful “Walking the Water’s Edge” then you know how easy it is to lose your place in the directions. Give neon highlighter tape a try. It’s transparent so you can read the line thru it and it’s low tack so it doesn’t rip the words off the paper. It can be used several times. You can get it in your craft store as it was meant to be used with quilting rulers or – you guessed it – Amazon. https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B000YZ5QYQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Who was that Famous Stitcher? Helen Hayes the “First Lady of American Theater” Her career spanned 80 years and when she died at the age of 92 she was a resident of Nyack NY. She was the first woman to be awarded an Emmy, Grammy,Oscar and a Tony award.

Can you guess who this Famous Stitcher is?

Our meeting this week was all on the submissions we sent to the Woodlawn Needlework Show earlier this year. What an amazing array of subjects that were stitched in numerous color ways that it looked like a rainbow. Wonderful combinations using the same pattern gave such different looks. I think it gave us all pause on the power of our art.

Woodlawn has announced the theme for the 60th Annual Needlework Show and it is “Craft as Comfort: Joy in Needlework”. Hopefully we will be able to send many of our bargello projects and more to the 2023 show.

The 50th Anniversary ANG Auction has started. Check out what they have to offer. Lot’s of canvases by Gay Ann Rogers, Jennifer Riefenberg, Melissa Shirley, Ewe and Eye, Kelly Clark, Tony Minieri, Books like Stitches For Effect and lot’s more. It ends on Monday at 7 pm CDT so don’t miss out. https://ang.afrogs.org/#/browse/onlineItems

Hot off the press and in the stores – Master Stitches from the Squad Volume 1. I was lucky enough to be in a store that got their delivery and got my copy – It’s not your average stitches book. It’s contents are laid out with a lot of thought in mind. Amazing combinations which from these 3 people you have to expect. And part of the uniqueness of this book is the names of the stitches!!! Where else would you find one called “Tied Blue Cheese” or “Your Not Manufactured that Way, My Dear” ?!?!? The back cover is a tease as to what is coming in Volume 2 – I can’t wait !!

Being it’s summer and kids need something to do – how about introducing them to what we love most. The House of Needlepoint in CT is giving children’s classes. It’s a one day class that gives them instruction, a piece of 13 mesh canvas that will be able to be put in a jewelry box or luggage tag, thread, needle and instructions to take with you. House of Needlepoint – Needlework and Stitching Services in Darien, CT

The Needlepoint Club House in St. Louis MO is doing a similar class. You may want to check with a LNS and see if they are also doing one. A great way to start out and enjoy a hobby for life. The Needlepoint Clubhouse

Of course some learn later in life than others. If you have a friend that would like to learn but stitching a small boat on 5 mesh canvas is a turn off then try Hannah Bass  https://hannahbass.com/ This is a site in England and it has some great alternatives. The kits come with needle, wool directions, choice of colorway and 12 mesh canvas. Perfect adult beginner kit and not juvenile !! Check out other things on their web site – some interesting accessories.

Bah Humbug – well maybe not that kind of Humbug! Check out Eye Candy’s Halloween Humbug Pin cushion – too cute and a quick project. She even shows you how to finish it and has matching items to put with it !!!! http://eyecandyneedleart.blogspot.com/search?q=humbug

Ada of EyeCandy has also put on her web site a free pattern that is a companion piece to her Magnet Tree. This time it’s a Spring Summer design. Same size as the last one but she changed it up with a rick rack trim. Great way to realize just how many magnets you have – Yikes !! http://www.eyecandyneedleart.com/EyeCandy_Needleart/Bonus_Charts.html

Are you counting the days to the holidays??? Well, let Chaparral Needlework help you with that. They have calendar’s to stitch and they come in 3 different months/holidays. https://ndlpt.com/search?type=product&q=calendar

Now that you have the dates it’s time to get ready for that holiday – what else is needed???? Cooking of course. Chaparral also has adorable baking canvases. Of course some of us don’t want to admit they have the last one but – it comes with the house !

At this point I would be needing a good cup of coffee/Latte/Mochachinno/Hot Chocolate… Family Arts is having classes starting in September featuring the Rachel Donley cups. They look good enough to drink. Family Arts Needlework – Family Arts Needlework Shop

The Needlepointer as you know was sold and moved to Sacramento CA. The new owner, Howard has been a busy beaver making changes. As of tomorrow 8/1/22 the website will now do “real time purchases” meaning the price you see is the price you will be charged. No more guess work with discounts, you will be able to see your loyalty points now, you will know if a canvas is “in stock”, one flat shipping amount will show at check out and other features to make shopping the web site better. Howard is also taking the next step – he is opening a showroom and bringing back their signature rainbow thread room. Howard’s motto is – “Being honest is the best way to a peaceful mind.”  You go Howard !! Needlepoint Supply & Accessories Store – The Needlepointer You might want to sign up for their emails – each week on Sunday they have a stitch of the week. This past Sunday was interesting “Crop Signs” – they explain the stitch, suggestions where to use it and threads that work well with it. They also had a canvas that it can be used on.

Tips & Tricks: Whether your going to seminar or just looking for the right stand for your home (or parking lot) Debbie Rowley has on her web site how to choose a “Stitching Stand”. There are a lot of things to look at and each type of stand has their own merits. Read what she has to say and pick the right one for your needs. https://debbeesdesigns.com/2022/05/12/stitching-stands-and-how-to-choose-one/

Who was that Famous Stitcher? Betty Furness – She was a Hollywood Actress in the 1930’s, she sold Westinghouse appliances on TV in the 1950’s “You Can Be Sure if it’s Westinghouse” and in the late 60’s early 70’s she was a consumer advocate on the Today show. For a time she was President Johnson’s special assistant for consumer affair’s.

Can you guess who this Famous Stitcher is?

Today July 30 is World Embroidery Day. It was started in 2011 by a group of Swedish embroider’s – celebrate and stitch a little today !!

We want to welcome 3 new members to all the fun – Jean J., Julie V. and Susan G. Hope you enjoy all we do here at NJNA. Never hesitate to speak up – we are always looking for suggestions and we have a lot of opinions – it’s how we are !!

This coming week we are going to discuss the Woodlawn submissions from 2022. If you haven’t provided Cathryn a picture please get it to her by Sunday as she has to put the presentation together. While your at it, start to think about what your going to submit for next year – it will be the 60th Annual Needlework Show. They will be announcing the theme in the coming months.

New news in the “Brick and Mortar” needlepoint world ! The Needlepointer has sold their business and the store is no more ! This business is 29 years old and it is now owned by Howard Zhou. He has moved the business to Sacramento CA and online only. The staff has stayed on with Howard but we will no longer be seeing those video’s of the store, their current trunk show and her dog – Awww. Howard sounds like he is going to be a good steward to this legacy. When asked why he wanted to buy the shop he said: “This is a business of wellness and happiness. Needlepoint is something we choose to do with our precious time. It’s not just a hobby, it is therapy, it is art, and it brings joy to many people.” We can’t agree with you more Howard – good luck !

Here we are in July – can it be that more than half the year is gone – ALREADY! That only means one thing – canvases are on sale. Every other email I get is a sale. Chaparral is having their first ever Christmas in July Sale. https://ndlpt.com/collections/christmas-in-july-2022-ornaments?utm_campaign=emailmarketing_123715453067&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email They are also having a trunk show by Lauren Bloch who has an interesting take on her canvas subjects. – https://ndlpt.com/collections/walkers-trunk-show-july-2022?utm_campaign=emailmarketing_123664826507&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email

Gone Stitching in Bergenfield NJ is having a sale – 20% off all in stock Christmas and Chanukah canvases. Gone Stitching

There are also lots of new summer things still coming out. Susan Roberts has a great looking new summery canvas called the “Mermaid Parade”

Stitch By Stitch in NY has some summery self finishing items!! For those cold cans with the beverage of your choice – they have can Cozi’s. They also carry a wide array of canvases to insert into them. Then they have new self finishing dog collars for all the “Maggie Mom’s” and other be loved pets. Ny Needlepoint | Stitch By Stitch Larchmont, NY | United States (stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com)

In the long run – all this means is – Fall / Winter canvases will showing up soon – oops – they already have!! Stitch By Stitch has something brand new – everyone’s favorite – The Grinch (all though I am partial to Max)

They also have some pretty new Xmas Crackers by Whipstitch!

Stitch Palettes has just released their 2nd book – all Summer color combinations. The difference between this and their fist book (Spring color combos) is that you can now get a spiral bound copy not just a download. They also have other interesting items in their shop to take a peek at. https://stitchpalettes.com/shop/

All you Fiber Fanatics – you have to see the “Monumental Yarn Art” installations that are both indoor and out. This was on the Painted Pony FB page. Amazing displays and so colorful – anyone up for a road trip?? https://mymodernmet.com/hottea-yarn-art-installations/?fbclid=IwAR2lAY620zbUFFCv3Es8GGYSYq5vlnIMNADasuebZklUWdLfUI6m7z7aY58

If you wander around NYC keep a sharp eye out for the “New York Embroidery Studio”. Yup – you can get anything on a truck these days. The truck will offer custom embroidery, heat transfers and heat stamping on the spot. Catch the truck and get your jacket monogrammed or a hat jazzed up – they like inventive ideas. They feel that ” Life is too short to be bland ” https://www.forbes.com/sites/kristenphilipkoski/2022/05/31/new-york-citys-high-fashion-embroidery-studio-is-taking-to-the-streets-with-a-mobile-truck/?inf_contact_key=f68f39dcbfb27ebe53eda15ffa1ec27e680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1&sh=418838da69b3

Tips and Tricks The Needlepointer has brought back the “Sunday Stitch”. This past one was very interesting – the Milanese Pinwheel. So perfect for a star !! Here is their diagram:

Megan from the Needlepoint Club House put on her Instagram account a great tutorial on putting a canvas on stretcher bars. https://www.instagram.com/p/CdVrFEJFv-D/

You can also check the Chilly Hollow blog for information on Evertites. https://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/2009/11/evertites-review.html – Jane-I like staples too !

Who was that Famous Stitcher?  Ali McGraw – A big Needlepoint Stash means never having to say your sorry !

Can you guess who this Famous Stitcher is?

The next meeting will be interesting – we will be doing a recap of all the submissions we made to Woodlawn this year. We again, sent quite a few pieces in for the exhibition and there were several prizes won by our guild. Cathryn will be coordinating the program and would like a picture of all the submissions. Next year is the 60th Annual Needlework Show so start deciding on what piece you want to send in !!

Happy 4th of July !!

What a fun Patriotic Holiday ! Barbecues, Beaches, Fire Works and Sales !!!! Lot’s of them. I know, you have to many canvases already ya da ya da ya da….. well there are other things out there besides canvases !!!

Ruth Schmuff now has beautiful needle cases to match her colorful laying tools – what great colors. https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2022/06/matchy-matchy/?mc_cid=0f57f493dc&mc_eid=15cfca0a49

If you were at Needlefest this year you may have bumped into the woman selling Needleminders (though she was overwhelmed by a small crowd which bought most of what she brought with her so she left early) She has loads of inexpensive needleminders and other things to explore.

Serendipity Needle Works has a new Stars and Stripes Stitch Bundle  Stars and Stripes Stitch Bundle 

If your planning a get away the Flying Needles Shop has a neat Tool Kit to pack that should take care of any emergency! theflyingneedles.com

Then again – there is a great looking Patriotic canvas from Eye Candy with 4 interpretations. You need to look close as they are all the same canvas !

The Wool and the Floss has a quick 4th of July Club – 4 ornaments that are Stitch Style Exclusives and the stitch guides are included. https://www.thewoolandthefloss.net/shop/c/p/Fourth-of-July-Club–price-listed-is-deposit-see-notes-below-x63767775.htm

The Needlepointer also has a new club called “Summer Lovin”. It’s a collage by Pippin over a 6 month time period and each section has a stitch guide by a renowned teacher! Meredith Willet, David McCaskill, Laura Taylor, and more. You will be stitching all things summer from camping to mosquitoes ! https://www.theneedlepointer.com/products/summer-six-ii?goal=0_3621358244-a01b6f3604-69343533&mc_cid=a01b6f3604&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

This summer the world has celebrated along with the Brits, Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee. Kate Dickerson went a step further and put HRH into Needlepoint just like she did with Iris and RBG. She looks so summery !! Kate Dickerson Hand Painted Needlepoint canvases

Whimsy and Grace update ! Back in September 2020 Toni Randall, owner of Whimsy and Grace lost everything in the Almeda fire in Talent Oregon. There was a huge hug from the needlepoint community to help her get back on her feet. Her iconic and much loved pieces will now be sold thru Chris Lewis Distributing. She joins the other famous designers like Tango and Chocolate, Kathy Molineux, Needle Deeva and many more. Good luck to Toni Randall for the future. Whimsy and grace | Needlepoint Soothes the Soul

FOMO Alert ! A new compact scissor that looks like a pen – comes in a bunch of colors – even turquoise! They are available in our favorite shopping venue (Amazon) and are called Twiggy Scissors or Japanese Pen Scissors.

FOMO Alert #2 If you are part of the crazy people stitching in the hot summer weather then you may want to try a Foldaway Fan. It’s light weight and folds down to a tiny hat box size. Has a rechargeable battery that uses a USB so you can also use a portable power source. It extends to almost 4 ft (in case your tall) and puts out a big breeze (having tried it out in the 90 + weather yesterday). Yes – of course it’s on Amazon!!

Tips and Tricks: Have you heard about the app called “ThreadBook” ? It contains a library of over 150 different manufacturers of thread but it does so much more. You can set favorites, keep track of your own threads, find threads by color … A very interesting and handy new tool ! http://www.onlinesewing.com/threadbook.html

Have you bought a Turtle Bag? Jane from Chilly Hollow has great information about putting a canvas in your bag. She talks about finding a canvas that fits along with all the things you need to know to insert it and / or finish the canvas your using. Lot’s of good suggestions – Thanks Jane! https://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/search?q=insert+canvas+in+turtle+bag

A wonderful story I also saw on the Chilly Hollow Blog was about the 150 volunteers at the Portland Oregon Westminster Presbyterian Church. Talk about stamina! They have been stitching for 32 years to make cushions for the 80 pews in the church !!! Think about that – mind blowing! Each pew is 18 feet long or 1,440 feet of hand stitching with 700 unique patterns. Congratulations to the women that made such a wonderful contribution to the continuation of needlepoint and many comfy parishioners. https://www.oregonlive.com/living/2022/05/portland-church-members-have-been-stitching-needlepoint-pew-cushions-for-32-years-theyre-finally-done.html?utm_campaign=theoregonian_sf&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&fbclid=IwAR3Za6M51Mv02_f5RpJ8ca5hkAvKIRTccJnqHo2kwMLEGiid4nsPkpOygEU

Who was that Famous Stitcher? Martha Dandridge Custis Washington – The 1st, First Lady of the United States of America. (George was her 2nd husband!)

Can you guess who this Famous Stitcher is?

Have a wonderful July 4th Holiday !

You wanted to be at this month’s meeting !!! The bargello projects were amazing to see. People are working hard on all kinds of colors and patterns. Cathryn put up a picture to show how it looks when it’s finished and then the pictures submitted of the WIP’s. So creative, so colorful, so imaginative !! There are several that finished (Turbo Stitchers) but there is still time. The September meeting is the last one and we are all waiting patiently to see the progress and other finishes.

Debbie Stiehler, the designer of the Bargello Ice Cream Cone that many are stitching for the NJNA Bargello project is going to be at a 3 day retreat in September. This event will be in SC at the Stitching Fox if you would like to have a get away in a warm climate. www.stitchingfox.com 

The Rehoboth Beach Historical Society is having it’s 10th Annual Rehoboth Beach Needlework Exhibit. It will take place between October 1st and November 6, 2022. If you would like to send in a piece of your work they will be accepting entries between Sept 15th thru the 24th. Check out their web site for more information. Rehoboth Beach Museum

FOMO ALERT ! The Embellishment Squad has put together their first book !!! They had so many stitches to share they had to do it in 2 books so there will be a 2nd edition coming. The first is about to go to the printer so contact your LNS and get on a list ! Meredith Hahn Willett of “The Meredith Collection”, Suzanne Howren, “Stitches To Go” and the always interesting and masterful Tony Minieri have been teaching for years and have created wonderful works of art with their amazing talents. It should be interesting to see what they name each stitch !!

Tony Minieri has announced on Facebook that his famous “Back To Basics” course will be available again soon on his web site in Kazoo’s Store. There are 3 DVD’s telling you the correct way to make your projects look great. https://www.tonyminieri.com/tony-products?category=DVDs

Just in case you want to make notes as you watch the DVD’s or just need a cute grocery store list, go to the Needlepoint Clubhouse. So adorable and they would make a great gift !! https://wordpress.com/post/blog.njneedleartists.org/7439

A great way to start the summer off is to do the Northeast Canvas Crawl. There are events and sales at the participating stores. Keep our brick and mortar stores going to help preserve our art along with all the talented artists they showcase. It’s also fun to explore the stores in person as each is unique as to what they carry. Check out the participants for what they have planned. https://www.canvascrawl.com/

Members of the ANG Main Line Stitchers chapter are having a needlepoint exhibit featuring Orna Willis. Starting July 1 at 5 PM in the Media Arts Council Gallery in Media PA they will be displaying the colorful designs of Orna Willis for one month. Check out the the web site for details. https://mediaartscouncil.org/calendar/mac-art-show-orna-willis-and-mainline-stitchers/

Tips and Tricks: This great idea comes from The House of Needlepoint in CT. We all know that we should keep the tag from the fibers we are using on a project but…. (those tiny DMC tags get lost easily) you can write them on the tape at the edge of your project and always have the name and number at hand !!

So let’s not forget the Father’s Day holiday !! Do they still give ties any more???? Find a trunk show for Pippin and see if you can choose just one canvas – a hard thing to do ! They have a great selection to choose from:

Who was the Famous Stitcher ????? Hopefully you guessed Shirley MacLaine !!

Can you guess who this Famous Stitcher is?

Let Summer Begin !