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 !

This month our needlepoint adventure is Bargello Part II – How Far Did You Get?

We will be checking out all the Bargello projects. Is anyone is having difficulty or suggestions for a better experience. We will also see who the turbo stitchers are ! Of course you need to be a member to check all this fun out.

We also have a new workshop starting in July with our favorite teacher – Vicky Witterschein. She just completed all 3 of her NAN certifications – never a doubt we knew she had it in her. She does such pretty projects and this one is Embellished Heart. It includes beading, laid filling stitches, ribbons, etc. The suggested finishes are a sachet, a hanging ornament, pillow, needle book or what ever you can think of. It’s 3 zoom sessions with no stitching to stress about and it will be recorded so you can go back if you have an issue. Get a seat while there are openings – it’s $100 for the kit and 3 zoom classes. (I saw it in person and it is stunning).

Have you been watching all the pomp and pageantry for the Queen of England’s Jubilee? That fly over in the formation of “70” for the number of years she has been on the thrown was amazing. Louie tried to steal the show but it’s all about Elizabeth. Of course that means that the needlepoint world has to celebrate her also. Moore Stitching has some lovely canvases to commemorate HRH.
https://moorestitching.com/products/jubilee 

While on the subject – 150 years ago the Royal School of Needlework was founded. With 20 ladies it opened up above a bonnet shop in 1872 not only to revive the art that had fallen by the way side but for the purpose of providing employment to educated women that would have had to live in poverty without a suitable livelihood. They have come a long way since then and have employed up to 150. They have degrees in embroidery and teach not only in England but the US as well. Check out their web site for some of the amazing things they have created. Royal School of Needlework | Centre of Excellence in Hand Embroidery (royal-needlework.org.uk)

Needlefest for 2023 says they are almost sold out already! Get your tickets now !!! Melissa and Megan from the “Pointing It Out” podcast had a retreat about a week ago. They had 60 spaces and received 212 responses! They did it by lottery to be fair and from the You Tube video it looked like a great event. I am sure the next one coming up November 11 – 13 is already piling up registrations. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cg1Dx4-KxE0

Another interesting event coming up is at Stitch By Stitch in NY. They are having a “Stitch A Monogram” evening. Krista from Penny Linn Designs is going to be at the store on September 20th from 6 PM to 8:30 PM. You will be stitching the monogram of your choice on her canvas design of your choice which is all included in the price. Threads are extra. Call the store for pricing 914.834.1886. Ny Needlepoint | Stitch By Stitch Larchmont, NY | United States (stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com)

While your at Stitch By Stitch check out the latest and greatest self finishing item – a fanny pack! Do you need something to hold your phone while you walk the dog or to make life a bit easier now that we need an extra hand to carry bags into the grocery store? They have several fun canvases that fit in the plastic covered window in the front. Such a neat idea ! Ah – but there is more !! They are also having a sale, buy a canvas and you get 20% off the threads or 20% off the finishing of that canvas. Can you ask for more???

The calendar says summer starts on the 21st – but it’s never to early !!! Chaparral Needlepoint in TX is certainly all ready:

On the other hand… they and many other stores feel this is the time to stitch winter canvases. Chapparal has a new Penguin Club-6 penguins by Danji Designs and they will start shipping in Oct thru March 2023. https://ndlpt.com/products/penguin-club?_pos=1&_sid=82fb832e9&_ss=r&utm_campaign=emailmarketing_122475479179&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email

The Queen Bee – Ruth Schmuff has paired up with Mary Legallet on a Max and Oscar poster done by Painted Pony Designs. Mary was at the Bee Hive for an embellishment class on this canvas and by the number of threads it has to be terrific. Now to make your choice that much harder Mary Legallet also did another class and stitch guide of a Christmas Angel – flip a coin – one is prettier than the next.

PLD Designs has some great looking new designs – something for all tastes not to mention seasons. The jars just are so iconic for the winter season.

If you would rather stitch summer during summer (I don’t blame you) then check out Kelly Clark’s Beach combing Country Sampler thru Colonial Needle. You have to love the colors. So many things you could do with this, so many textures to create. https://colonialneedle.com/

Tips and Tricks Check out the new labels for Kreinik – hopefully this makes it easier yet there is no color coding for size – win some…. lose some.

Some sage advice from Louise’s Needlework about what to pack when your getting ready for a trip and you bring your needlepoint with you (like you wouldn’t?!?!?) https://media.rainpos.com/530/News_Blast_March_2022_Final.pdf

Who was that Famous Stitcher? None other than Mary Queen of Scots. During her 18 and a half years of imprisonment she stitched day and night to pass the time. Some of the embroidered panels are still in existence. V&A · The Prison Embroideries Of Mary, Queen Of Scots (vam.ac.uk)

Who is this Famous Stitcher ?????

This week was our monthly meeting and our guest speaker was the renowned Laura Smith. She spoke on the “Seven Ways of Color Contrast”. So much to know to help you design a better looking project. Laura Smith is one of the teachers at the “EGA Broadway Bound” seminar and she spoke on the project being offered there as well as many others that she has used for teaching in the past. Lots of new things to consider the next time you plan out what you are doing on your canvas.

Next month should be VERY interesting – it’s the “Part Two” of the chapter Bargello Project. We will be checking out how everyone is doing — or not ! Seeing all the WIP’s should be an eye opener. Of course like the lottery – you have to be in it to enjoy it. Last look we had 54 members and we would love to have more people to enjoy all the fun we are having. Go to our web page and contact us to be a part of a great community of needlepoint enthusiasts. https://njneedleartists.org/

The new Needle Pointers magazine is being printed and can be viewed online to members. If you thought those Fibonacci Swirls were something (all you Jean Hilton lovers) you will love the new issue. I can’t wait to go thru it !!

NEEDLEFEST 2022 !!! How much fun was that? It looked like a number of people were not able to make it by the unused name tags on the front table but the ball room and atrium certainly looked well attended. So much to look at, so many people to chat with and if you were not in the right place at the right time to see the feeding frenzy when Trish Vine came in you missed an amazingly controlled yet determined group of women. Trish went home with a lot of empty storage boxes !!! There were also plenty of canvases, hand dyed threads and the other hit of the show was the woman with the magnets – she clearly needs to bring more next year !! Needleworker’s Delight worked tirelessly to make sure everyone had a great time – they did a great job. Next year the event will be held April 15 and 16 (Sat/Sun). Get your tickets and room reservations early!

Did you feel that rumble ??? No, it was not an earthquake – I think it was everyone running to their LNS because they heard that Whimsical Stitches 3 has finally shipped !! If you ordered it way back in the fall of 2021 you should be expecting a call soon that it has arrived.

The Washington DC store “The Point Of It All” is moving. Their doors will close as of May 21 and will reopen on June 1. They are having a moving sale (and who doesn’t like a sale) https://thepointofitallonline.com/collections/sale-canvases – looking doesn’t count !

I’m sure everyone heard that Luv 2 Stitch in CA was closing – not so fast – they are starting a new business called Luv2Stitch Finishing Management. Their long time manager Rhonda Pellegrini will be in charge of getting projects finished. I am sure they will be quite busy.

Another business making changes – The Wool and The Floss, after 60 months in business has decided to stop selling knitting supplies. Another sale to be had as she is liquidating all those items in her store. Not to worry though she is staying in business for needlepoint and both Megan & Melissa are having a “For The Pointing It Out Podcast Retreat”. She is hosting over 60 stitchers from 21 states and Canada.

If you missed out on that retreat than consider the Southern Shop Needlepoint Tour. Grab a “Passport” at any of these 8 stores. Spend at least $40 at each store and they will put a stamp in your Passport book. When you complete your Passport it goes into a drawing for a prize. You have from now until October 1 to hit each store and complete your book. ROAD TRIP !!!

We are a week away from everyone’s favorite holiday Memorial Day – the unofficial start to summer. Many plan to go away for the holiday and if you are one of those lucky ones to be traveling then Stitch By Stitch has Passport Covers by Rachel Barri. There are numerous inserts to choose from and convey your style !

If your headed to the beach some of the cutest new beach canvases are by Pippin. I want the straw hats !!!

Needlepoint For Fun has Pippin kits with everything you need for a quick stitch or for someone that wants to learn !

Let’s not forget the need for a magnet – having sat thru Laura Smith’s talk on color – what better way to always have a color wheel with you than the new item from Accoutrements, and yes it really does work !!!

AND – just when you thought you had seen and heard it all – The new Needlepoint Now has an article on Vegan Taxidermy ! Wrap your mind around needlepointed taxidermy.

Tips and Tricks: Which needle to use??? Here is a guide from the John James web site that will tell you more than you ever wanted to know about needles !! Needles Guide (jjneedles.com)

Another interesting item – Tesla Amazing Magnetic Notes. Great for if you are following a charted design. These notes have no glue and stay in place by a static charge. They are also dry erasable so if you write on them you can change what you wrote. They come in several sizes and colors. Here is a review: https://droidhorizon.com/tesla-amazing-magnetic-notes-review/ You can buy them from our favorite place – Amazon.

Who were those Famous Stitchers???? Those women in the painful looking shoes are Nelly’s Needlers ! They are an all volunteer group that have supported Woodlawn for over 50 years! Since 1975 they have raised and donated more than $1 million dollars to help preserve Woodlawn as an historic property. I understand they also make a great ginger cookie too !

Do you know who this famous stitcher is ????

This month we are lucky to have Laura Smith. She will be talking about the Seven Ways of Color Contrast. She is known for her painting techniques and layering stitches to create beautiful designs without counting. This should be an interesting new way to stitch a project for most people. She is also going to be one of many teaching at EGA’s Broadway Bound Seminar this summer. Of course the only way to get to hear Laura Smith will be to join NJNA and experience all the fun and interesting things we do.

The Woodlawn & Pope Leighey House 3rd Annual Virtual Needlework Show is online until May 31st, don’t miss it. This week is a special presentation of “Passing on the Tradition of Needlearts: Community Conversation”. http://www.woodlawnpopeleighey.org/2022-virtual-needlework-tickets?fbclid=IwAR19N6u9BPrgX9i_OUAOS4zC-CCAfc3dpdkPuVOrE57fdSOQ4tIgm4hEwH4

Just a reminder that ANG has moved:

Tomorrow is Mother’s Day and we all know what you would like as a gift for the occasion !! Here are some hints to drop:

Stitch By Stitch in NY is having a special where you buy a gift certificate and they increase the value by 10% – a good deal and you get to pick what you want. They always have great suggestions with all kinds of self finishing items and Grab and Go bundles. Their new class is beyond adorable, Kate Dickerson’s “Llama with Cactus Plant” . The eye lashes and fur are just so pretty !! Ny Needlepoint | Stitch By Stitch Larchmont, NY | United States (stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com)

It just so happens they also have a Trunk Show going on right now with JP Needlepoint. JP Needlepoint has a beautiful compliment to their Chinese Lantern canvas – this time it’s Fans. What a great canvas for embellishment.

The other thing we all love besides a new canvas, be it for Mother’s Day or no reason at all is gadgets !!! Can we have too many ?!?!?! Ruth Schmuff, owner of Bedecked and Bedazzled has some beautiful new laying tools. She has a new artisan making them for her and they look like they are a dream to use. https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2022/04/tools-of-the-trade/?mc_cid=e5c02630e6&mc_eid=15cfca0a49

She also has a colorful new set of accessories that were designed by Kimberly. The collection is called My Gypsy Soul. The set has 6 hand painted canvases and comes with stitch guides. https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2022/05/my-gypsy-soul/?mc_cid=f70d00277b&mc_eid=15cfca0a49

System 4 announced that they have become an official distributor of the entire Stella Light line. They have an accessory for their stands that allows the Stella light to clamp to their products. We all know how important lighting can be when stitching !! https://www.needleworksystem4.com/products

Another great gift for all of you handbag lovers – Etsy has a store making a cross body bag with a window covered in plastic – perfect to display a canvas. It comes in numerous colors – makes you think there really is a spring season !!! https://www.etsy.com/listing/1028917317/classic-small-crossbody-ita-vegan?click_key=c71c19bffeed24fae46b599849b2bf48a633c4eb%3A1028917317&click_sum=cc721b6a&ref=shop_home_feat_4&frs=1&bes=1&sts=1

Not enough choices for your Mother’s Day Gift you say !!! Well, how about a Yazzii ?!?!? Yes I spelled it right and when you go to the web site you need a cup of coffee and some time as they have so many things to look at ! They have numerous colorful storage and organizing bags. You name the craft and they can organize you or, think outside that box and use their bags in your own way. Yazzii Craft Catalog – US/Canada Yazzii Craft Organizers & Bags

Tips and Tricks: Have you ever had your white background look dirty or stripped?? Some people’s skin can react to the nickel coating on needles – AH HA !!! Try changing your needles to gold or platinum to solve the problem.

Talk about a problem – Chilly Hollow had some BREAKING NEWS !!! Mindy Patterson is selling her store. She has been in business for 48 years and her first grandchild gave her pause as to life priorities. She says she will continue to design and sell her designs even after she retires. I am sure we all wish her well. http://www.mindysneedlepoint.com/

It’s already time for this year’s Needlefest !! Next weekend is the annual stitching festival put on by Needleworker’s Delight out of Metuchen NJ. I can’t wait !!! The event has become so popular that they even added a 2nd day this year. I hope to see many of you at this fun event.

Who was this Famous Stitcher???? Why our beloved actress Mary Tyler Moore

Do you know who they are????

Everyone enjoy Mother’s Day tomorrow and with luck the rain may let up !!

Who knew there were that many more ways to use your needlepoint?!?!?! This weeks meeting Cathryn finished up her presentation on “Ideas For Finishing Needlepoint”. I was surprised at how many she still had left to show us. She also had a discussion on Bargello to kick off the chapter Bargello project. This project has the biggest turn out for a chapter project – ever! She showed pictures of many of the pieces that people wanted to stitch which showed just how diverse the choices were. In June we will return to the project and see how everyone is coming along. Next month we are having Laura Smith. She will be talking about Seven Ways of Color Contrast. Come join NJNA – you just can’t imagine the fun we are having and you too can be a part of it all.

Last call to see the Woodlawn Needlework Show. It is now available virtually and your ticket purchase allows you to go in any time thru May 31, 2022 You are also given access to the recordings of the other 3 programs they had. http://www.woodlawnpopeleighey.org/2022-virtual-needlework-tickets

Are you a lover of Kathy Rees designs??? Poppypoint in Charlottsville VA is going to do a stitch a long this summer and the piece they will be doing is Kathy Rees – Zig Zag. https://poppypointe.com/collections/classes

If you are already familiar with Kathy Rees and Toni Gerdes among others then you may want to join in on their new Stitch and Cruise to Hawaii. It takes place starting September 22nd from Vancouver BC https://www.rgetravels.com/…/Dual092222CelEclipseHawaii…

They have some great looking classes you can sign up for – what could be bad???? https://www.rgetravels.com/…/HawaiiClassInfoSheet.pdf

Third Coast Stitches is a store that was opened by 2 young women in Chicago. Nice to see a younger generation furthering the craft we all love. They have some very cute small canvases called city mini’s – a very quick stitch ! https://thirdcoaststitches.com/pages/contact-us

They are also into Needlepoint Swag – Hurry up before they are gone !!!

I know the latest thing is not to match but I just couldn’t resist – look what you can purchase on Etsy !! There are several merchants that can sell you a pair so you can be style’n !!!

Southern Living Magazine says that Needlepoint Pillows are all the rage. There is an article in the newest edition and it says that our craft is “Trending” !! https://www.southernliving.com/home/needlepoint-pillows-are-trending

That time is coming around again – Graduation !! Beehive Needle Arts in Pittsburgh is hosting a local designer trunk show – Lauren Bloch. Check out her web site, she has some different canvases to choose from. She also does custom work – be it your favorite dogs picture or a mortar board remembrance. https://www.laurenblochdesigns.com/

Serendipity Needlepoint is having a Needlepoint Treasure Hunt !! Everything happens in a pop – up Facebook Group over 5 days and it’s all about “How To Make All Your Needlepoint Projects Look Fabulous” There are prizes and giveaways – all you do is sign up and check it out and as she says ” The best part?! It’s F R E E! ” https://resources.serendipityneedleworks.com/treasure-hunt?vgo_ee=988itnAVlr4aYWcMGa2yeA%3D%3D

The Wool and The Floss have some beautiful cedar and leather valet tray’s. All are hand crafted in Paraguay and each sale supports a student in grades 7 – 12. The inside of the box is approx. 8.5 X 7 so you can put a piece of needlework in and add glass or acrylic to protect it. They come in several buttery colors. Accessories (thewoolandthefloss.net)

All you Laura Perin fans – It’s BACK !!! Petite Arabesque as a Cyber Class !! There are 4 color ways to choose from if you buy the Full Kit. http://www.laurajperindesigns.net/ljp-cyber-classes.html

Colour Complements has a new heart on their blog done in their rich color threads. Very interesting to read how it was stitched: https://colourcomplements.com/2022/03/squares-and-crosses-pattern-for-hearts-for-hospice.html

Check out a new way to use your needlepoint – ON Christmas Balls !! Cathryn, you can add this to the list ! Starke Art has released a series of ornament wrappers. Stitch By Stitch in NY is selling them and when you are done stitching they will send them back to Starke Art for finishing which includes the glass ball. starke art – Stitch by Stitch (stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com)

Starke Art also has the most adorable Lobster Trap’s that are sold thru CBK Needlepoint. What a great item to stitch while on vacation in Maine. Starke Art Designs (cbkneedlepoint.com)

Tips and Tricks:

UGH – have you ever gotten “something” on your canvas while your working on it? Good habits to get into: Wash your hands before you start to stitch – keep wet wipes nearby and make sure your hands are dry before you start again – no eating when your stitching – keep your white threads bagged and separate from all other threads – always stitch white threads first – always store your project in a project bag/tote/light colored pillow case to keep it clean between stitching sessions.

Who was this Famous Stitcher???? This is Iris Apfel. She is a successful businesswoman, interior designer, fashion icon and fascinating women. Check out her life.

Do you know who this is????

Our members that participated in the “Tale of Two Stitchers” program in February took the show on the road. They gave their talk to the San Bernardino chapter and it was even better the 2nd time around.

This month we will be finishing Cathryn’s program from last month on “Ideas for Finishing Needlepoint” since we ran out of time. We will also be kicking off the chapter bargello project. So many different canvases will be part of this, it will be interesting to see them all together.

If you missed seeing the 2022 Annual Woodlawn Needlework Show – do not fret !!! It will have a virtual showing on their web site starting April 15th ! You will be able to see all the entries but sorry, no cookies !! 2022 Annual Needlework Show Information 2022 — Woodlawn & Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pope-Leighey House (woodlawnpopeleighey.org)

More new canvases are coming out from the Spring Market including a very appropriate one !! This week we missed Deep Dish Pizza Day and National Burrito Day. Let’s not miss today’s celebration of – National Unicorn Day !! (who would have thought !!)

If unicorn’s are not for you (understandable!) here are some more new canvases from the Spring Market:

House of Needlepoint in CT has a new class for learning stitches – it’s an eclectic tic tac toe board or of course can be made into a pillow, etc. They can get the box you see it in and it has storage for the game pieces. Not your average sampler !

It’s Easter and Passover Time. Easter has way more canvases to choose from than Passover unfortunately but here are a few interesting Easter items that can be added to the stash:

The Two Handed Stitcher has a lovely Laura Perin piece called Easter Egg Hunt. It’s only 8×8 but has to be a fun stitch. http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/

Eye Candy has a free Easter Egg Pattern on her web site that can be dressed up in several ways. http://www.eyecandyneedleart.com/EyeCandy_Needleart/Bonus_Charts.html

While your there check out her new canvases that make up the most colorful and sweet Easter Train. Would make a great stand up.

Nothing says Spring like robins. Artful Offerings has some very pretty patterns that can be transferred into needlepoint or if you like congress cloth have at it with samplers, purses, folk art, etc. http://www.artfulofferings.com/

Needlepoint Junction has some exclusive canvases that scream spring. Small stitch items that can be done quickly and they are in you know who’s favorite colors. https://shopneedlepointjunction.com/collections/exclusives

Flying Needle in FL is looking for someone to buy her store. In the mean time she is doing business as usual and has needleminders celebrating the Ukrainian Flag that will also help the cause.

In spite of all this talk of spring, and where is it anyway, it’s just never too early to start a Christmas Holiday project. You will need a good head start on this one by Kate Dickerson. It’s an interactive Advent calendar that is sold in a set with 25 ornaments.

All you fans of Ruth Schmuff – she has released her first iStitches book as a digital download!! https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2022/03/its-back/

Beading Tip: Beadalon has collapsible eye needles. They are supposed to work even with seed beads !! Where can you get them??? Where else – Amazon and I am sure your local craft store may also have them!!

Who was this Famous Stitcher???? Why Eartha Kitt of course !

And who is this Famous person on so many canvases these days??

Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday no matter what your celebrating !!