Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday !! Three more days until we get to watch Anderson and Andy get crazy waiting for the ball to drop on New Year’s Eve !! As far as I am concerned – it’s the start to another year that I hope to finish a lot of things in my stash. NJNA is making this the year of the technique and I have plenty to practice on in my stash. On January 4th we will be having our Holiday Lunch at the Grain House in Basking Ridge NJ. Contact Cathryn C if you would like to go in case she has an open seat. It starts at 11:30 and ends at 3:30. Please bring a Show and Tell item for everyone to see in person. Everyone enjoys seeing what others have stitched. If your planning on submitting anything to the Woodlawn exhibit, Linda M will be collecting the items that she and her husband so generously take down each year. Make sure you have contacted her before hand to get all the paper work and wrapping correct.

You probably have gotten an email about the 2025 dues. Good news – they are the same amount – $30. You must be a member of ANG first. If you want to join us in all the fun we have do not hesitate to contact us thru the web site or even as a comment to this blog and we will get you all the information. Our first meeting will be all about ribbon work with Jacqui C. !!

I don’t know about you, but I am drowning in emails with sales. The needlepoint world is on sale. I have also seen new retreats being advertised – there is certainly no lack of something to do or something to buy in the Needlepoint Universe. It’s not even January yet and there are 2 new clubs forming:

The Needlepointer has a Nutcracker Club from The Plum Stitchery with stitch guides by Stitch Style. This is a 9 month club that will start around April/May. You get the canvas, stitch guide and thread. A wonderful Christmas tale done in needlepoint – https://www.theneedlepointer.com/the-nutcracker-clubdiv-idclubsubtitleopen-enrollmentdiv/p8514403?cse=nl1228&goal=0_3621358244-af074025f1-69343533&mc_cid=af074025f1&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

The 2nd club is thru The Stitching Fox in SC. They are doing an exclusive of Pippin’s Trees on 13 count canvas. Their stitch guide writer, Vicky Goodrum has put together many different fibers, techniques and embellishments for each tree. Great whimsical trees for the next holiday! To join in go to: https://www.stitchingfox.com/products/winter-trees-a-5-month-subscription-stitch-club

Who Needs A New Magnet ???? Everyone ! My collection is large but they all make me smile. KC Needlepoint has a great collection with some new ones that might just make you smile too ! Best part is they are all flat so they hold your needle nicely. Check them out, they make a great gift for a stitcher. https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/collections/magnets?page=1

Tips and Tricks: It’s almost January and like a flash – it’s time to put away all those hand made decorations. What do you do??? What you don’t do is store them in plastic. We use so many wonderful natural fibers for our work but they need to breath. Having read the Wee Westie at Diversions Needlepoint in CO, the answer is acid free paper and boxes. Even if you put them in a plastic storage bin it’s better than a plastic bag.

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That was Kathy Brant. She joined Atlantic Blue back in 2022. She is the designer of all those Santa’s with hobbies like stitching, pickleball, golf, tennis etc. She also has designed several travel rounds. She has been painting and stitching since the 1970’s.

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

This month’s meeting went over several item’s such as the budget for 2025 and what’s to come for programs and eventually some calm stitching. Since all the details are not quite in place yet, all I can say is we have some great programs coming for the year 2025. It’s our 35th Anniversary as a chapter and we expect to celebrate the occasion with a year of Techniques ! On another note – our last meeting was so much fun I went a bit crazy with the Ribbon Ornaments – this was only about a third of what I made and recipients so far were surprised and thrilled at the gift. As a reminder – our dues are collected in January for the year 2025. Join in on our fun at NJNA by joining the chapter.

ANG has started their pilot program for “Younger Stitchers” to join ! If your 35 years old or younger they are giving you a one time offer of 50% off your dues. This also gives you a digital copy of the Needle Pointers Magazine along with all the other benefits. By going to the membership page and putting in the code “YOUNG2025” and your birth date you can get started on a wonderful journey with ANG. https://www.needlepoint.org/page/Membership?_zs=QhCog1&_zl=hHwx9

Needle Pointers Magazine is having a 2025 Stitch Along. Each issue is going to have a different heart by Judyann Hearts and the first one is the Flirty Leopard Heart. You can purchase the canvas at Judyann Needlepoint and there is a stitch guide and list of threads in the next issue. An easy way to do a small project every 2 months ! https://judyannneedlepoint.com/product/flirty-leopard-heart-needlepoint-canvas/

Needle Pointers Magazine wants you to get every issue and for those that spend half the year in a warmer climate (and we can’t blame you!). They have come up with a list for you to go into your ANG profile and change your address in time to get your magazine – where ever you are !! Set a reminder for the change so you never miss your copy – no matter where you are !

Charts For Charity is back !! I had not heard of this before – many stores/ designers create a digital download of a chart and the proceeds from your purchase goes to a specific charity. It is an initiative started by a group of designers within the needlepoint community with the goal of making needlepoint more accessible, all the while raising money for some wonderful causes this holiday season. Check KC Needlepoint for numerous charts and they will also sell you an 8X8 piece of blank canvas to stitch the pattern on with free shipping. https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/blogs/news/charts-for-charity-is-here?omnisendContactID=61fc368aa1816e00226a532d&utm_campaign=campaign%3A+Charts+for+charity+%28672e8cc9d8da2d76601b711e%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=omnisendOr, Morgan Julia Designs is selling designs from previous years along with this years pattern. They are just great designs and you are supporting an organization of your choice for the holiday. A win – win in my book.

Another way to “Stitch for a Cause” is to go to Stitch Stash. Patti Hoffmann has just released the December 2024 canvas that is a donation to Breast Cancer Awareness. The new canvas is by Anna of Evergreen Needlepoint. It was originally a patriotic design but they got together and worked it into a floral to go with the theme of 12 Months of Pink. You have to love the colors they used ! Go to the web site and look under the “12 Months of Pink-Dec” tab. https://stitch-stash.com/

I know how thrilled everyone is to finally have cold winter weather – NOT!! It does, however, put you in the holiday mood (maybe). Coco Frank has some adorable Snow Globe canvases to put you in the mood. Small, so they are quick and easy to stitch and very adorable. https://cocofrankstudio.com/

If you want to stitch something a bit more adult – go to Rittenhouse Needlepoint for their exclusive Morgan Julia Design original – The Clover Club Cocktail. The Clover Club Cocktail was created in the late 1800s in Philly for the namesake men’s club which met in the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel. By the 1930s, it was so popular that bartending books were suggesting the cocktail be served at sewing clubs and crazy quilt parties. It has recently enjoyed a resurgence in popularity. It is essentially a gin fizz with raspberry. It looks so pretty !! https://rittenhouseneedlepoint.com/products/morgan-julia-designs-clover-club-cocktail-needlepoint-canvas-rittenhouse-needlepoint-exclusive?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=campaign&_kx=QNbnum1iUEN5weUC3DuK75aOlVx0Dud-BR0a603hRFw.TU8N4e

There is a new club about to start ! The Needlepointer has a sweet holiday treat – Candy Canes. The club starts in March/April and goes for 6 months. All of the designs are by Melissa Shirley – how bad can that be ?!?! You get the canvas on 18 count, stitch guide, threads and embellishments. Yes, that means beading !! https://www.theneedlepointer.com/candy-canesdiv-idclubsubtitleopen-enrollmentdiv/p8514398?cse=nl121424&goal=0_3621358244-802e57c3e6-69343533&mc_cid=802e57c3e6&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

The other “Club Like” item I was going to tell everyone about is from Atlantic Blue. If you have Taylor Swift crazed people in your life, well, they have her iconic outfits to stitch !! I will give you the link to the web site but as of now most of it is sold out. Not surprising, but – there is always next year !! https://www.atlanticbluecanvas.com/collections/the-eras-series?_pos=1&_psq=era&_ss=e&_v=1.0&_kx=_6T6ZEqw3FzRTyL6whjCxpBoWNmvx7M7ogeQHpVHlzk.SdsruM They even sell stitch guides and fabric to match for finishing !

You still have time to shop for stocking stuffers. Two web sites to look at are Hedgehog Needlepoint where they not only have new color self finishing leather luggage tags but needleminders to match your destination travel tags. https://hedgehogneedlepoint.com/ The other idea (since we actually already have it all!) is The Needlepoint Club house assortment of note pads. Everyone can use a note pad – right?!? They have a great assortment to choose from along with lots of other ideas in Megan’s Gift Guide. https://www.needlepointclubhouse.com/collections/gift-guide?_kx=di6BKbqlX0z0_r-FgYg7VgX_cnHap6E52Vd1c3YUq6g.W43bG6

Tips and Tricks: Today’s item would also make a great stocking stuffer. It’s a small scissor sharpener! I tried it and it worked really well. Small enough to put in your needlepoint bag of tricks – I mean tools. You can get it (probably faster than it takes to walk to your door) on our favorite site – Amazon for a big $6. https://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-SewSharp-Scissors-Sharpener-98547097/dp/B0002JT0PK/ref=sr_1_6?crid=1NNCKPNUP5IN6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.6Qjxpf_IMqgKWhoQd9LSAmeY-lK3TgQJadZeZhFXb5EG6ilCyrX-4Lp8eMh0fhHx8Cn0JaAn2XvwOVSAReXRPonj_2J1ODbZYLIMkDSiGfxxy0H0HpEd7omjmtc3Cd2IJhm6aV8VpyxWWb1Y2cEN9OJBnkhyUoJ85-17hArumFu7tdAQWte5RL0CPwougb8js-IgeFU2fzUzOi1x0kKeLy1wUSCXBgypSTzBsqd8tyy8oKXvRLuXvbFn3zbU2ROVvijONKMtNmcwBYgsdz30EaJ72P_KB4YN2yrF91-Ylq-Vhm5I7BpIY1NFkfW-YD5yJ-6caoEBPUY1Nr8LQHxEnbVZYseuHegBXToBzBmrS2F1_f0DXR3VGB7DiuBRNvBs3nV1J8TL7qym31AHBQv7rO3Hb94E48Y0DENddFVCKorlDB9HPKUCMEm_Rn1Opn02.GS9YYYIGkiEm74LLxPaLvMk8S3bw4O2_F1TdUNjDL50&dib_tag=se&keywords=scissor+sharpener+small&qid=1734213188&sprefix=%2Caps%2C89&sr=8-6

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That was our own Cathryn C. She is a long time stitcher and teacher and is very active in both ANG and EGA. She had a long career in Reinsurance and is now on the Board of Trustees for Notre Dame of Maryland University.

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

Only 11 more days to go !!! Everyone have a wonderful Holiday !

This months meeting was great! We had the best time. We did the business portion of the meeting and then discussed that the next meeting , because of the holidays, will be a stitch in so people can catch up and have no stress. We also spoke about how there are only 2 or 3 more open seats for the lunch in January. If you wanted to go you need to contact Cathryn C. asap and get a spot. It’s always a nice affair to attend. After all that was out of the way, Nancy B. did a program on making Ribbon Ornaments – I don’t think we laughed that much in along time. Who knew making a knot was that complicated !! LOL Nancy provided everyone that requested, all the things that go into making this ornament. The chapter picked up the cost for the most beautiful Grosgrain ribbons, thread, needle and 2 sizes of beads along with the instructions. We were having so much fun with this that they were late getting out of the library. Mind you this is not hard to do. Everyone finished at least one ornament but the amount of fun in doing it was priceless. Melita even blogged about it the next day. Just another reason to join in the fun at NJNA !!

Another reminder that Linda M and her husband will be taking the pieces from NJNA members to Woodlawn again this year. Please bring your piece to a meeting or to the lunch and let Linda M know that you are having her transport your submission. Woodlawn and NJNA have been working together for many years to make this show a success. We are one of the biggest contributors to the needlework show and hopefully we can send them plenty of entries again this year. They are celebrating the 50th anniversary of Nelly’s Needlers and are looking for entries from all 50 states. Even if you don’t belong to NJNA consider sending in a finished piece of your work.

Thanksgiving is now over, we are stuffed and eating left overs which only means one thing – every store is having a sale and my email is over flowing with deals. Hopefully you went out and supported your LNS today for Small Business Saturday. If you don’t live here in NJ, where we are so lucky to have so many stores then you can fall deep into your emails for more bargains than you might want. Not sure what to get a fellow stitcher as a gift?? Check out The Wool and The Floss – not only do they have a buy one get one 50% off sale but they have a Gift Guide for suggestions. (of course it’s a good place for dropping hints for your own stash-my list just grew longer! ) https://woolfloss.com/pages/holiday-gift-guide?se_activity_id=156214460636&syclid=ct5jjquncaps73ab2ne0&utm_campaign=Buy+one+canvas%2C+get+one+50%25+off%21+%F0%9F%92%9A_156214460636&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email#holiday-products

Even though Thanksgiving is over, I think everyone loves some kind of pie no matter what time of year it is. KC Needlepoint feels the same way and has canvases with everything from pumpkin to coconut custard to all of them in one. Very cute look for a stand up at this time of year or even a pillow – best of all – no crumbs ! https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/collections/pies?omnisendContactID=61fc368aa1816e00226a532d&utm_campaign=campaign%3A+Thanksgiving+Pies+%286718b1d60aff2101a0915476%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=omnisend

The Needlepointer has initial Christmas Balls which are perfect for a new stitcher. They are simple yet have many ways to embellish them. Makes a great children’s gift !! https://www.theneedlepointer.com/needlepoint/trunk-show?cse=nl112524&goal=0_3621358244-74d2a6f710-69343533&mc_cid=74d2a6f710&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

Take a look at Morgan Julia Designs, she has some new clutch hand bags. She just added brown and navy! They take a 5X7 canvas and are self finishing. The bottom is nice and wide and it has choices as to how you use it, clutch, shoulder, cross body, etc. Naturally she also has many canvases to pick from for the opening. Makes a nice gift. https://morganjuliadesigns.com/products/the-classic-clutch-3m-self-finishing?_kx=rV4MBEfWGkwURglkyUXCLopGavY2DCJQzP6Y94aO8T4.RWeQns&variant=44250713587910

Everyone is in a rush so maybe you need a quicker alternative for a handbag – KC Needlepoint is selling Isabel Harte hand crafted beaded bags. They area a limited edition so be prepared if the one you like is gone already. All of them are just pretty to look at – a difficult decision. https://isabelharte.com/collections/all?filter.v.price.gte=&filter.v.price.lte=&omnisendContactID=61fc368aa1816e00226a532d&sort_by=created-descending&utm_campaign=campaign%3A+Isabel+Harte+1+%28673521ace2bf0697704fb3de%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=omnisend

If you have never tried stitching with Straw Silk your missing out. They have both solid and variegated colors and the array is getting bigger. You can iron it for a smooth look. You can peel a bit off the side to make it narrower, etc. The Stitching Fox carries the entire line and has just shown the new color palettes they have. There are 5 colors per card with 4 strands per color. Try using it in your next project. I used it in lettering and you would be amazed at the look. https://www.stitchingfox.com/collections/silk-road-fibers/products/straw-silk-color-palettes

We all panicked when Kreinik was sold to Rainbow Gallery. Then you couldn’t get certain colors for a while as the transition was going on not to mention when they had trouble getting the spools. Who knew that Au Ver a Soie makes metal threads !! They even come in #4, #8, #12 and #16. If your a fan of the ever ingenious Ruth Schmuf (Bedecked and Beadazzled) then you can join in on her newest club – AU VER A SOIE METALLIC CLUB! How apropos! You receive 8 spools of #8 starting with the end of Dec 2024. She will continue until you tell her to stop or until she run out of colors. Just looking at the colors makes me want to try it ! https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/product/au-ver-a-soie-metallic-club/

TIPS AND TRICKS: I HATE beading needles. They are so hard to see the eye and then there is figuring out what size you need. Then I found “ColorEYES”. Bead Smith has 3 different size beading needles and each size has a different color where the eye is so you know what to look for when you need a beading needle. They even come in a multi pack so you get 2 of each size. Anything to make beading easier !! https://www.beadsmith.com/BNCE126

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That is the new ANG Eastern Rep Allison Leach. Her main chapter is the Piedmont Chapter in VA. We all wish her good luck with her new position.

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

This coming Tuesday is the 9th annual “Giving Tuesday”. At this time of year many people give donations to their favorite charities. What better day than this Tuesday.

The temperature is finally cooling down, the leaves are mostly done and we finished the pumpkin instructions – it’s time for this coming weeks program – Ribbon Candy Ornaments !! I think everyone is into the spirit since the weather was so warm many put out their holiday lights already !!! This is such a simple project but so much fun and in the end is very pretty, everyone should enjoy it. Next month is catch up month with a stitch in.

A Woodlawn reminder – you should have gotten an email from Linda M about transporting your submissions to Woodlawn. Registration opened on Nov 9th. Linda & Mr. M. have again volunteered to take the NJNA submissions down to Woodlawn. You can give your pieces to Linda at the in person meetings at the library or at the NJNA Luncheon in January. This year is not only the 62nd year of the show but the 50th anniversary of Nelly’s Needlers and as such they are looking for a submission from each state. Woodlawn is always very appreciative of NJNA’s participation so if you have something to submit make sure you connect with Linda M.

Keep a look out – the new Needle Pointers Magazine is coming! The cover is very nontraditional with an art deco tree. The back page is a stunning oriental woman. In between the two is a lot to read. Melita G. has a new Timeless Treasures article. A tale of “Many” Stitchers features NJNA along with the Potomac Chapter for a program we both did. Trust me – there is lots more. You should have received and email from ANG or you can go in on the web site to look at it online. The “snail” will deliver soon!

There is a very interesting new club from The Needlepointer – Neon Horizons. It is inspired by an art style that started in the 1980’s. It’s depicted with very vibrant neon colors of fictional scenery. This is another one canvas club that lasts over 6 months. The kit includes a 12 X 12 canvas, threads and stitch guide. A very different looking canvas from most. They expect it to start in March 2025. https://www.theneedlepointer.com/neon-horizon-club/p8514286?cse=nl110924&goal=0_3621358244-821650f7ab-69343533&mc_cid=821650f7ab&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

Hannah Bass creates really neat looking needlepoint maps of famous cities. She has just come out with something new and really big – a world map! She loves taking art classes so this map is very colorful and done all in dots. I love the background. https://hannahbass.com/?_kx=fu3RrIDJqF6Kwgrghp5shSo7IfVeZUIk2VGvd680Gdc.R3Ak4A

Atlantic Blue has a series of ornaments depicting the costumes of the Rockette’s in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. They now are selling them individually, with or without a stitch guide and threads. They have also just added fabric with pictures of the costumes that you can buy to have them finished. PLUS – they have bows and jingle bells that can be used to embellish them and let’s not forget the matching needle minder! https://www.atlanticbluecanvas.com/collections/the-needlepoint-spectacular

Stitch Stash has announced their November canvas for their Breast Cancer Awareness series – 12 Months of Pink. This canvas was designed by Elizabeth Crane Swartz. Known for her “Dots” she has created a very cute canvas that will fit into Rachel Barri’s Everyday Clutch. Of course it’s also the perfect size for an eye glass case or maybe on a bag as an accent. You can buy the canvas only or as a kit. https://stitch-stash.com/collections/pink-november

DMC is having a sale and it includes their neat looking new bag’s. From now until November 24th they are having 30% and 40% off on various bundles and when you hit $40 it’s free shipping. The interesting one I saw was their Eco Vita Needlecraft Tote Bag. Their “bundle” includes 12 skeins of their naturally dyed organic wool and a mini loom and it is 30% off. What a great looking bag with lots of pockets. Like Goldie locks it’s not to big and it’s not to small. https://www.dmc.com/US/en/offers?products_en_production%5Bquery%5D=

KC Needlepoint has something to set your holiday table with. Of course this is for next year BUT – how cute are these???? Silverware holders and napkin rings !!! What a great item to have for future family get togethers. Some can even be used at Spring or Summer events. Check out their web site for other canvases. https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/collections/for-the-table?omnisendContactID=61fc368aa1816e00226a532d&utm_campaign=campaign%3A+Tablescapes+%28670d7f59c0ecee4574658d50%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=omnisend

I know – we haven’t hit Thanksgiving yet but it’s never to early to start thinking about Holiday gifts. Ruth Schmuff has and she came up with a couple of items that would make any of us giddy. She has two items from Au Ver a Soie that would certainly make ME Happy !! She has Fluorescent colored threads in #4 Braid – I know where I could use them!!! There are also several orange palette metallic threads with coordinating silk floss. They all look so pretty together. She then has project bags made with the cutest lady bug print. Inside is another matching zipper pouch filled with beading supplies. Leave it to Ruth Schmuff to have such interesting items all ready for a gift bag ! https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2024/11/ideas/

The Results Are In !!!! The Needlepoint Clubhouse took a survey of their customers AND here are the results. They have a great web site – check it out. https://www.needlepointclubhouse.com/collections/new-arrivals?_kx=di6BKbqlX0z0_r-FgYg7VgX_cnHap6E52Vd1c3YUq6g.W43bG6

Tips and Tricks: One of the best needle threaders is the 50 cent metal items (unless you go big time and buy Dritz). They are great – if you can see the holes. Like many of us, age is not so kind and we need some help. Here it is !! Like having a 3rd hand. And the best part – it’s on Amazon !! All I keep think of is using this on beading needles !!!!

And if that is not enough I am giving you a choice !!! This company has another version of a needle threader. Life is all about choices ! And YES – it too is on Amazon.

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That is Debbie Stiehler – think bargello ice cream cone with many scoops !! Debbie Stiehler is an international designer, teacher, lecturer and is a NAN Lifetime Achievement Awardee. She is also an EGA Master Craftsman in canvas embroidery and a form of lace making. She has accomplished lots more and is still designing !

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and eat lot’s of pie !

I don’t think we are going to admit we are getting older BUT NJNA starts their 35th year of being a part of ANG !!! Let’s celebrate with some

Just a little needlepoint humor !! The minds behind the guild are working hard to celebrate over the next year. Come join the fun and help make out 35th year a big one. AND, a big welcome to out newest member Lisa N. – so glad you have decided to join us !!

Is everyone ready to finish their pumpkins after our last meeting?? Jacqui C. demystified how to stitch the stem. I can tell you that I just finished it and it was easier than it looked in the directions. On to the rest of the meeting about the background and what ever embellishment you are planning on. This was a fun project and I encourage other chapters to look at it for a program. Our next meeting is doing Ribbon Candy as an ornament. The chapter will supply what is needed for this one but you need to let Jacqui C. know you want a kit. She needs to mail them in time for the meeting !

ANG has published the Spring Fling projects coming for 2025. All big name instructors with many sought after projects are a part of it. They are anticipating the virtual classes will start in March 2025. Registration opens on November 4th. Here are some of the classes being offered:

Many of us belong to several organizations both in ANG and EGA. Our Metropolitan Region EGA is having an event in April 2025 and you don’t have to be a member of EGA to participate. If you are an EGA member they are offering 3 classes. Regular registration ends December 5th. but late registration goes until March 1, 2025. They also have a stitching room if you don’t want to take a class but want to catch up with friends and enjoy one or two days of stitching together. This event takes place in Montvale right off the Garden State Parkway in the Courtyard Marriott Hotel. With plenty of parking and lots of restaurants in the area it is definitely a fun day. Contact Janice M. at grayceedm@aol.com for more information.

It’s that time of year again – Time to Renew your ANG and Cyberpointers memberships. You should have gotten and email from both explaining how to go about doing it either by mail or online. No lines like with early voting !!!

Don’t you enjoy reading the “Tale of Two Stitchers” article in the Needlepointers magazine?? I always enjoy seeing the different thought process each stitcher has for the same canvas. Well, want to give it a try?? They are looking for stitchers to participate !! There are 2 canvases they need people to stitch for two articles. Contact Linda Mosch at TOTS@needlepoint.org and she will give you more details. How interesting are these canvases??????

Just a heads up – one of our favorite LNS is having a trunk show !! The Edwardian Needle is hosting PLD Needlepoint. They are the outlet for several needlepoint designers so there is LOTS to see and pick from. If you want to look online then go to: https://pldneedlepointdesigns.com/collections/in-stock-now – If your like many of us and like to see them in person then pop by the store and while your at it – check out what Jen and Little Pam have done with the store – really nice! Remember, everything is 20% off and anything can be ordered.

I did not know about these Rainbow Gallery threads until I read an email from Morgan Julia Designs. Oh well, I can grab it for next year for my Halloween canvases – Glow in the dark Silk Lame Braid and Neon Rays +. You can order them from MJD https://morganjuliadesigns.com/products/neon-rays-plus-glow-in-the-dark-np304?_kx=rV4MBEfWGkwURglkyUXCLopGavY2DCJQzP6Y94aO8T4.RWeQns

New Club !! The Stitching Fox has an exclusive from Danji Designs – Oak Leaves. You receive a package once a month. There are 12 leaves with threads, embellishments and a stitch guide by their in house instructor and stitch guide writer Vicky Goodrum. https://www.stitchingfox.com/collections/subscription-stitch-clubs/products/oak-leaves-a-12-month-subscription-stitch-club

The creative minds behind KC Needlepoint have started another venture called Happy Stitching. Everything is a complete kit for either first time stitcher’s or those of us that have been at it for a while. What a great gift !! Each one is an exclusive design and contains the canvas, 2 needles, scissor with lanyard, threads, needle threader, project bag and a self finishing item. On the web site are videos on how to stitch what you picked along with a video on how to finish it !! There is no guess work. The web site gives you choices for ability, type of item, color, etc. Very well thought out. https://www.happystitching.com/collections/all

The Needlepointer also has an interesting kit. This one is a self finishing pillow. The kit comes with a stamped canvas, threads, pillow insert and backing with zipper. Their instructions will walk you thru the finishing process and it’s all washable. For now everything is a pre order and will ship in about 2 months. You can go to the web site but I did not see it on there yet so you might want to call the store. https://www.theneedlepointer.com/project-pack?nav_id=606

This one is a family heirloom in the making – Needlepoint.com has an exclusive advent calendar kit of a Toy Store. It comes with everything you need to create an amazing holiday item. You have to check it out online to see all the moving parts to this as it is a BIG project. https://needlepoint.com/products/toy-store-advent-calendar-kit?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=2024_11_02%20Toy%20Store&utm_klaviyo_id=01EY735XHE675Z0Z1C4Z7SB8DK&_kx=SpNrwJYeSg8JHGV3vDRNkpeUD67Ddf2hdz1HBTATTO0.TxAVmM

Atlantic Blue is featuring 7 new designers for the month of November. Check them out – they have an interesting take on a needlepoint canvas along with a sense of humor. I put some below but there are many more online. https://www.atlanticbluecanvas.com/collections/emerging-designer-showcase?_kx=_6T6ZEqw3FzRTyL6whjCxpBoWNmvx7M7ogeQHpVHlzk.SdsruM

Do you love lobster? Are you an LL Bean Fan? Do you binge watch Maine Cabin Masters?? Then check out Morgan Julia Designs new Maine Collection. Lobstah Rolls, Duck Boots, a Woodie Wagon Needle Minder and more ! Perfect for that Maine Lover. https://morganjuliadesigns.com/collections/maine-collection?_kx=rV4MBEfWGkwURglkyUXCLopGavY2DCJQzP6Y94aO8T4.RWeQns

Tips and Tricks: Have you ever heard of a “Pinzette Tweezer” ?? Me either ! You need to go to the Needlepoint Clubhouse to get them. Slant tip with wide grip surface provides precision thread removal, larger finger area makes grabbing threads easier. Used in the ateliers of haute couture. Who knew ?!?!? https://www.needlepointclubhouse.com/collections/notions/products/pinzette-tweezer

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That was Krista LeRay the founder and CEO of Penny Linn. She is also a life and style blogger at “Covering the Bases”. She lives in Fairfield County CT with her family. She may be best known for her magnetic acrylic boxes.

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

Are you ready to finish a pumpkin??? I looked ahead at the stem which Jacqui will be covering in this months meeting. It is a bit more complicated than I thought it was !! Looking forward to Jacqui’s idea’s on how to make this finish come about !! There are some interesting versions of pumpkins going on in the guild – can’t wait to see them all !

Oh No! Sharon B, our Secretary is down and out for the count. She went on vacation to that dangerous place – England – slipped and fell in the airport and broke her arm. Yikes – no stitching for quite a while !!! We all wish her well, Feel better Sharon !

I think most of us agree that we need some younger people to keep this craft alive. ANG is taking a new step to hopefully make this happen. Carley Linn, the new ANG President has announced that there will be a new category of membership. There is now an “Associate Membership” for people under the age of 35. It’s a discounted fee and is available for 5 years. They will benefit from most of what membership brings but the magazine will be an online version only. Talk to all the younger people you know who enjoy our favorite hobby but may not have as much time to devote.

ANG wants to remind you that registration for their “Virtual Spring Fling” begins Nov 4th thru the 26th. There are 9 classes you can choose from but they have not revealed what they are offering yet – stay tuned. Their online auction totaled a stellar $12,332 – a win, win for everyone.

Let’s give a warm welcome to our new Eastern Area Rep – Allison Leach. Allison has lived in Charlottesville, Virginia, for over 30 years, and has retired from working at the University of Virginia for the past 20+ years. Allison was an instructor and researcher in teacher education focusing on early childhood education, and is now a Charlottesville shop girl at Lauren Ryan’s needlepoint shop, Poppypointe! Currently she runs the Stitch Club in Charlottesville, and is a member of two local ANG Chapters – Piedmont and Shenandoah Valley! Welcome Allison !

If your in the neighborhood of Larchmont NY check out the local Library. Stitch By Stitch is Exhibiting a collection of Needlepoint and Fiber Arts in the Oresman Gallery. Both the staff and their local stitching customers will be showing examples of beadwork, embellishments, decorative stitches, various fibers etc. If your on their web site also check out their Stitcher of the Month – she has done some amazing pieces. https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooH6_X6wJCDBrOoWraDtc2co2C_Yr_6w_z-KYpYT5MboZbMw3ep

The devastation caused by the hurricane/Tropical Storm Helene is considered at a level of “Once in a Life Time”. The needlepoint community is jumping in to help support the effort to help all those in the storm’s path. Needlepoint .com is having an “Every Stitch Helps” event. Through Oct 6th 50% of all sales will go to “Operation Air Drop” and 100% of the sales from the Asheville and North Carolina travel round canvases. https://needlepoint.com/collections/newest-products

Poppypointe is donating a portion of the proceeds from The Four Seasons of Virginia canvases to the Red Cross Fund For Hurricane Helene Relief. https://poppypointe.com/products/four-seasons-of-virginia?_pos=1&_psq=four+seasons&_ss=e&_v=1.0&mc_cid=4038437393&mc_eid=241f847d0f

Stitching Fox has partnered with Plant Earth and they have come up with 2 exclusive canvases along with a “stash builder” thread pack. They are $35 each or 2 for $50 and 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the Red Cross of Western North Carolina. https://www.stitchingfox.com/

NEW CLUBS !!! Very DIFFERENT Clubs !! The first one is by Bedecked and Bedazzled aka Ruth Schmuff. I don’t remember the last time she had a club but this one is all about the monster of your childhood. Designed by Sandra Vargas these are her take on the classic families. Is there any you don’t recognize? https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/product/retro-monsters/

The Needlepointer has a new club that looks interesting – all the canvases are Lunar New Year Firecrackers ! It is expected to start in Feb and runs for 12 months. They are on 18 mesh and are only 6 X 5 – a quick stitch ! https://www.theneedlepointer.com/lunar-new-year-firecrackersdiv-idclubsubtitleopen-enrollmentdiv/p8514207?cse=nl09162824&goal=0_3621358244-807ae2a07c-69343533&mc_cid=807ae2a07c&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

Everywhere you look there is something about coffee. It’s nothing new and we have seen numerous versions from Rachel Donley (so cute too). The new version is Iced Coffee by Morgan Julia Designs. She has recently developed the taste! https://morganjuliadesigns.com/products/iced-coffee?_pos=1&_psq=iced+coffee&_ss=e&_v=1.0&variant=43566093795526&_kx=rV4MBEfWGkwURglkyUXCLopGavY2DCJQzP6Y94aO8T4.RWeQns If you want to take it that one step further though, go to Potomac Beads – they have beads that look like real coffee beans. What a great embellishment. (Thank you Jane of Chilly Hollow) https://www.potomacbeads.com/search

I was looking at some of the new things from market on Stitch By Stitch’s web site and found another place to put needlepoint – your hat !! Kate Dickerson has paired up with Blue Canary who makes the hats and they fit a 4 inch round on the top. There was also items you don’t think of that designer painting – like Jean Smith doing blue and white platters. Zecca doing women’s faces and you have to smile at the Susan Roberts backgammon set with an ocean scene. Just a peak of new directions the designers are heading. https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/collections/whats-new-2024

Tips and Tricks: From the Needlepoint Clubhouse – when getting an insert finished for a clutch purse – have the finisher add a ribbon loop/tab. This way when you go to change the canvas out for another one it will be easier.

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That is Maggie Boroujerdi – she is the owner of Love MHB Studio. Her pieces are bold graphics with simple lines and everything is on 13 count ! Check out her designs at: https://lovemhbstudio.com/collections/wholesale

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

It is officialy the first day of Fall – good bye to a rainy hot summer. The weather is cooler and starting to get crisp here in NJ – perfect weather for pumpkin stitching. This weeks meeting was one of the best we have had. Lot’s of ideas were discussed regarding the survey and next year, the presentation by Melita of all the pieces taken at this year’s seminar in Kansas City was mind bending. So many great projects that I am sure they will get finished. We then just squeaked in Jacqui’s talk on the top part of the pumpkin. Next month will be the stem and the background. And – at the risk of them getting locked in the Library – we saw Show and Share. Thank goodness it was short.

This weekend was the NJNA class with Ann-Marie Anderson Mayes. The blog is a day late because I took the class and now understand why she has such a following. It was a 2 day class in which she taught both of her creations – Versailles and Grace’s Garden. I can honestly say that the photos of any of her projects do not do them justice. She dies her own thread into amazing colors and variegated combo’s. She displayed her finished items for all to see and had threads to purchase which was way to hard to decide on because the colors were so vibrant and beautiful. Ann-Marie was beyond helpful with picking threads and combos. Her directions are easy to follow and she was just a delight each day we were with her. Do not hesitate to take a class with her if you have the opportunity.

WOW – ANG had a very successful silent auction and Buy It Now at the 2024 seminar!! They raised $17,186.00 – a win – win all the way around.

No Words for the Kansas City Seminar Best In Show Award. Congrats to Maureen Giuffre – you certainly deserve it for all those bullion knots !! I believe the picture is on Face Book where you can see it closer. This is a labor of love and deserves the Best in Show award.

Watch your mailbox – the new Needle Pointers magazine is coming. Of course you can also read it online but… The cover is adorable and the back cover is a tribute to the 9 -11 Firefighters. Wait till you see the Tale of Three Stitchers this issue – each so different. Of course Melita has an interesting article on the study of color and design done by Gene Wright but there is a lot more to peruse thru when you get it – as usual – the magazine is so well done.

THREAD ALERT – They are starting to appear – the new way to buy Kreinik. Since Rainbow Gallery bought Kreinik they decided to put it on their cards instead of the spools! Just think – those tiny stickers can’t fall off any longer so you don’t know what color you have ! Good luck to the stores, what are they going to do with all those boxes with tiny drawers?? I can’t wait to give one a try !

There is a new book about to come out – “Make It Yours:Book One” and it’s being distributed by The Gingham Stitchery which as you may know is the owner of The Wool and the Floss in Grosse Pointe MI. https://woolfloss.com/pages/the-shop-1 This book is 36 pages of fonts for personalizing your needlepoint projects. Spiral bound makes life a bit easier !!

The Needlepointer has a new club that is for an Out Of This World Christmas! The designs are all by Rebecca Wood with stitch guides from The Needlepointer. There are 18 adorable 4 inch canvas aliens and the club runs over 7 months. Each package includes stitch guide and thread. https://www.theneedlepointer.com/an-out-of-this-world-christmasdiv-idclubsubtitleopen-enrollmentdiv/p8514205?Cse=nl091324&goal=0_3621358244-f0237d8bd4-69343533&mc_cid=f0237d8bd4&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

Are you getting ready for the fall season and Halloween?? It’s about to happen !! Of course we all know how long it takes to stitch something so, for next year (I tried to say that with the utmost confidence) you need to do a Halloween Basket by Patricia Sone. Easy Peasy as it’s on 13 mesh. You will be the the talk of the treaters ! Find it at Stitch By Stitch in NY https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/products/patricia-sone-136-halloween-basket-with-handle-and-s-g?_pos=4&_sid=32e317202&_ss=r

We all love self finishing items – particularly these days when it’s hard to get something back from a finisher. We are going to have to plan 2 years in advance soon!! Check out KC Needlepoint for some leather trimmed hand bags and clutches. All take a 4 and a half inch round canvas for the opening. Something a little different ! https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/collections/bags?omnisendContactID=61fc368aa1816e00226a532d&sort_by=created-descending&utm_campaign=campaign%3A+PE+Bags+%2866db14307d417fbc02d9b702%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=omnisend

NEWS FLASH: The founder of Alice Peterson, Cathy Rapoza is retiring !! https://alicepetersoncompany.com/ Thankfully her daughter Stephanie Ruetz is stepping into her shoes ! Congrats all the way around and thank you Jane of Chilly Hollow ! https://chillyhollownp.blogspot.com/

Talk about worth the wait – we are talking 10 years of waiting and stitching by 3 generations BUT – AMAZING! Needlepoint in Paradise has a customer whose daughter and grand daughter all stitched an amazing tree skirt. It’s a masterpiece for sure! True dedication to the art form of needlepoint. https://www.instagram.com/p/C8xFnVNOBCW/?g=5&img_index=2

The latest needlepoint market just like all of them – never disappoints !! From new colors of self finishing handbags to calendars to 3D canvases – it’s mind blowing what they have come up with never mind what must be in the works for the future. To get a look at many companies in one place take some time (because your going to need it!) and check out Stitch By Stitch in NY. They have a special section of their web site and it has at least 16 pages of canvases to look at and one is better than the next. Start your holiday list now !!! https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/collections/2024-autumn-needlepoint-show?page=1

Tips and Tricks: Do you have some damaged older needlepoint that you hate to part with? Try this option, cut out a part you like and glue it onto something, like this pair of driving mocs. You could put it on bags or sneakers or jackets – endless options !

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That is Karen Hennessey – the owner of Zecca Designs. She started out making handmade polymer clay buttons and moved on to jewelry, greeting cards, pots etc. until doing her own thing (which we all love). She has been bringing in her son Alex to the business and we will be seeing more and more of his art along with Karen’s. https://zecca.net/needlepoint/

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

The 2024 Seminar is done !! From what I heard – everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Many had adventures sightseeing, great food and incredible class experiences. I want to give a shout out to Pat C. – one of our newest members. She was in the same class as Sue C. and she melded right in with the rest of the NJNA members that were at the seminar. Glad to hear that everyone was having a good time. Hmm was the seminar actually NJNA-West??? LOL !

Our next monthly meeting will be full of seminar chat for sure. We will also be doing the upper part of the pumpkin. You just might see someone’s pumpkin (yes, mine) in the presentation along with other WIP’s. And next comes the question – what are you going to do with your pumpkin?? Think about it as we still have the stem and background to do !!

Can you believe it – the ANG Online Auction is here already. It opens on Sept 12 and finishes the 15th. They have that newer system of looking at what is up for bid that makes it easier if you want to only look at books or floral canvases etc. Check your email, you got and ANG Newsletter yesterday with a link so you can make a list of all the items you want to bid on!! Good Luck everyone.

The ANG 50 for 50 Fundraiser is about to make available their new project to benefit ANG. Very cute ornament and it will be available Sept 20th. Look at the ANG web site for how to get the project. While your at it – there is a new Workshop By Mail and a Cyber Workshop – it’s not about need !

According to ANG – September is National Needlepoint Month – definitely worth celebrating ! Perfect timing as the Autumn Needlepoint Reunion (for stores only) runs from 9/19/24 thru 9/22/24. Of course no one can keep a secret so many of the big designers have been allowing stores to show some of the new canvases and there are many beautiful items coming. The most local store to here with the biggest showing of new canvases is Stitch By Stitch in NY. Get a cup of coffee and go to their web site and look over what is coming. I may have to donate my stash and start again !!! Alice Petersen has beautiful new collections not to mention Gayla Elliot has her stitching girls in 5″ rounds…. https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/collections/2024-autumn-needlepoint-show

While going thru that web site I saw a designer I was not to familiar with – Oasis Needlepoint. Some real eye catchers are coming from them!! I went to their web site to look at more and they too are worth checking out so you can order from Stitch By Stitch or your LNS ! You may need an extra cup of coffee. https://www.oasisneedlepoint.com/oasis-needlepoint/whats-new/

Blue Ridge Stitchery – the company we used for the chapter project that was then used to learn how to finish an ornament has come out with the cutest sea creatures that have an interesting habit !! Go to their web site as I saw one of their other items just yesterday and it was so adorable – A Kitty’s Gift (Jacqui it was great!). https://blueridgestitchery.com/collections/all

Needlepoint.com has some new items by Two Sisters – beautiful picture frames and custom initials for luggage tags etc. https://needlepoint.com/collections/two-sisters-frames?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=2024_08_31%20Letter%20Inserts%2C%20Frames&utm_klaviyo_id=01EY735XHE675Z0Z1C4Z7SB8DK&_kx=SpNrwJYeSg8JHGV3vDRNkpeUD67Ddf2hdz1HBTATTO0.TxAVmM

Hedgehog Needlepoint, the original Retro luggage tag that everyone loves has something new!! Officially licensed college logo purse inserts. They fit Rachel Barri’s Everyday clutch and Penny Linn’s Likha Fancy clutch. They measure 3 x 6 and are on 18 mesh. She is always adding more destinations, colleges etc. A busy woman !! https://hedgehogneedlepoint.com/collections/canvases-1

I have a lot of friends that play Canasta and a lot that want to learn how to play Canasta !! How fun are these new playing cards by Coco Frank Studio – a perfect quick gift. They have lots of smaller projects with adorable dogs, travel, holidays etc. You have to love that alphabet! https://cocofrankstudio.com/collections/all-products

Elizabeth Crane Swartz has branched out from her dots – she is now into squares, sayings and letters – all just as appealing as the dots I might add. Stitch By Stitch also had finished a spectacular piece for Elizabeth on a jacket – so beautiful !!!!!! See in the pictures below. https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/collections/elizabeth-crane-swartz-fall-2024-new-designs

Tips and Tricks: The Wool and the Floss has a great new item that let’s you easily display seasonal canvases. They now have Acrylic Frames with Stands that come in 3 sizes. Easy to slide a canvas in and out. Have your canvases finished flat for easy storage ! Win – Win. https://woolfloss.com/products/acrylic-frame-4×4-with-stand?shopify_email_activity_id=154189594844&syclid=cre9akc9iacs73bht6hg&utm_campaign=emailmarketing_154189594844&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That was non other than Toni Randall, the owner of Whimsy and Grace. Three years ago wildfires in Oregon destroyed everything she had. The needlepoint community collectively reached out to give her a big hug and help her get her back on track. She has been stitching since 7 years old and has not stopped ! https://www.whimsyandgrace.com/

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

This month’s meeting was so interesting. We reviewed all of NJNA’s submissions to the WoodLawn 2024 Needlework Show. Seeing what people had entered and some sending in the same project yet different was inspiring to volunteer for “A Tale Of 2 Stitchers”. Our past President now does that column for Needlepointers Magazine and it’s a favorite each and every issue. Everyone has a different take on how a canvas should be stitched. Congratulations to all the ribbon winners ! Can’t wait to see the creativity next year.

Cathryn is also looking for more people to fill out the survey she prepared. The answers you give will guide the chapter on what programming will be for the coming year. We only want to provide what your interested in and we need to know what that is. It also takes a lot of advance planning to book a teacher or speaker so please return your survey ASAP.

There are at least 10 members of NJNA that are going to the Seminar in a week. Everyone is excited. Make sure your name is on the list so that you can all have a dinner together or catch up for lunch etc. Contact Linda M. if you haven’t already. The seminar is from Sept 1st thru the 5th – Have a great time.

The surprise of the evening was an invitation to all NJNA members from the Central New Jersey Chapter of ANG to participate in a Zoom class for the project “Holly” by Dawn Donnelly. This has been given in a previous ANG seminar. The class will be taught by Dawn Donnelly over 3 Thursday’s in April 2025. If you would like to join in the fun please email Maurene F. (see the email from 8/23/24). There are only a few seats left.

ANG has announced a “Save The Date” for the next online auction. It will start on Sept 12th thru the 15th. They have also activated the new Quarterly Stitch. This quarter is “Halloween Treat” by Marilyn Owens. You can get this free project off the web site or there is a link in the ANG email dated 8/23/24. There is also a new Cyber Workshop being announced on September 3rd – don’t we all need another project ?!?!?!

News Flash – Kreinik is going to be sold on cards not spools. Rainbow Gallery bought Kreinik months ago and moved everything to their CA location. Good luck to store owners when it happens as it will be a monumental change for them. You may also want to check the official list of discontinued Kreinik colors to be sure you have enough for a project your working on. https://www.kreinik.com/store/shop-needlework/how-to/Metallic-Thread-c-497/discontinued-Kreinik-metallic-colors.html

Did you just love that Chill Pill from Morgan Julia Designs! She and Krista from Penny Linn decided that a mini version was just as much fun. It’s on both their web sites (sold out for now on Penny Linn) and it’s approx 4″ X 2″ on 13 mesh canvas. It comes as a canvas or a kit. Look at Morgan Julia Design’s web site as she has other “pills” you can get. https://morganjuliadesigns.com/collections/pills?_kx=rV4MBEfWGkwURglkyUXCLopGavY2DCJQzP6Y94aO8T4.RWeQns

I happen to enjoy stitching those Retro Luggage Tags from Hedge Hog Needlepoint. They are so creative, small enough to take with you easily. Make sure you ask about the meaning of all that is on the tag. I wanted to have it finished with the grommet at the top but didn’t know where and I ran out of time. I just found a place that does it – Island House Needlepoint out of CT. These are the same people that gave us that great laying tool that is magnetic. They have a very different system to get something finished to make it a smoother process. Look at their web site as they have other interesting items. https://islandhouseneedlepoint.com/

Speaking of Hedge Hog Needlepoint – if you have not bought one of their leather tags to put their canvas in you might be surprised. They are very well made to last a life time. I was very please to give it as a gift. Coming Soon – New Colors !! No longer do you have to choose between brown, black and blue – what about Caribbean Turquoise (thank you Cathryn) or Lipstick Pink … such fun colors to look forward too. That is how you stand out in a crowd! https://hedgehogneedlepoint.com/

Kathy Rees of Needle Delights has several new items ! She has new Seasonal Delights she is releasing as soon as she is back from Seminar. How can you not fall in love with the hot chocolate and mittens – no matter the weather. The Fall one is about to hit home soon here in the North East. Each one is 6X6 with the Spring and Summer ones coming soon. She is also releasing her Confetti teaching piece thru the Shining Needle Society !! https://needledelights.com/product-category/coming-soon/?mc_cid=a83aa57e04&mc_eid=d11a24489c

Stitch By Stitch in NY may be closed for vacation but they are still full of great ideas you can order online such as Needlepoint cards. You stitch the design and insert it in the card to give for the occasion. The needlepoint can then be put in a self finishing item for the gift !! https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/search?q=greeting+cards

They also have something I have yet to see anywhere – colored acrylic trays! What an enhancement for your stitching !! https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/search?q=+acrylic+trays

And if all that is not enough – they are putting on their web site sneak previews of the Fall Market canvases – Yikes I am so glad they are closed right now !! https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/collections/2024-autumn-needlepoint-show

The Needlepointer has the return of the Chinese Lantern Club – in case you missed it. They are so colorful and delicate looking. I can’t imagine what they do with all that opportunity on one canvas ! It starts in January 2025 and goes over 6 Bi-Monthly shipments. You get canvas, stitch guide and threads. https://www.theneedlepointer.com/chinese-lanternsdiv-idclubsubtitleopen-enrollmentdiv/p8514195?cse=nl082424&goal=0_3621358244-7de49a74f4-69343533&mc_cid=7de49a74f4&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

In case you have not heard – Louise’s Needlework shop is closing in November. Jill Elia is the 4th “Louise” and she wants to retire. I will miss her Recipe Corner !! Thank you Chilly Hollow. https://www.facebook.com/LouisesNeedlework

Tips and Tricks: This dandy little item comes from the Wool and the Floss. Looking at the picture you may not understand how it works. The second picture tells it all. It’s a stretchy tube that stays on your canvas with a magnet and it’s meant for your wooden laying tool !! Ah – Haaaa !!!! Very handy !! https://woolfloss.com/products/laying-tool-minder-by-tools-of-the-trade?shopify_email_activity_id=153950978268&syclid=cr56q37npmrc73chkdig&utm_campaign=emailmarketing_153950978268&utm_medium=email&utm_source=shopify_email

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That was the amazing Carole Lake. She was been in the canvas embroidery world for a long, long time. She has a list of accomplishments longer than your arm including pairing up with Michael Boren to form Stitch Play Designs. Sadly she passed away in January of this year. You can go online to still purchase some of her designs and her books are still in your LNS. https://stitchplay.com/

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

August is a busy month. We are working on the pumpkin again (yes I started mine and it’s got some great stitches that you can make sing with different threads). We will also be reviewing the Wood Lawn show from earlier this year. There are 20 days until the ANG seminar starts in Kansas City. Labor Day is 9/2 and most important of all — today is National S’mores Day !!! Enjoy !

Two other items – First is a shout out to our new member Jean Trumpy from WI. I just got her information and will be updating everyone shortly (had computer problems). Number 2 is a comment I have received on several occasions about receiving the blog. “Why does the email come in larger than the page”. In a nut shell – I have no idea ! If anyone out there in cyber space knows the answer please let me know.

There is a neat looking new book that you can get thru KC Needlepoint called CHart It – a monogrammers companion. It’s by Sara Trucksess of SCT Designs who sells her canvases thru KC Needlepoint.. She has some very cute items to check out: https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/collections/sct-designs This book includes 26 original needlepoint charts, alongside a full alphabet of shadow-lettering. The book is compact and is designed to be tucked in your stitching bag. KC Needlepoint will offer the book as part of a package deal – the book, the 16 colors of DMC Cotton #5 that Sara uses in her designs, two skeins of DMC white, two cut squares of 18 count canvas, needles and a handy project bag to keep it all together. If you order your kit THIS WEEKEND through KC Needlepoint, you will receive a signed copy, while supplies last. https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/products/chart-it-kit

KC Needlepoint also has another interesting item – this canvas by Hello Tess, and it’s a stitch along. You can buy the kit which comes with the canvas, fibers and needle. You then go to their blog and Jenny McAuliffe has a detailed stitch guide. Nice small project for traveling. https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/products/home-round-kit

At this point we all know you need a new bag to travel with and put your new projects in. Look at these cute bags from Chaparral. They come in 3 colors and are 14″ long x 9″ tall x 5″ wide. They appear to be a heavy canvas so it will hold up. https://ndlpt.com/collections/the-ultimate-tote/products/black-stripe-ndlpt-tote

This world is all about choices – right ?!?!? Here is another great looking tote bag by Penny Linn. This tote is made of nylon and was designed for needlepoint usage. It’s 22″ across the top yet 17″ across the bottom. It’s 14 ” high and comes with a 12 ” straps but has the ability to put on a cross body strap. It also has a strap across the back for luggage. Loads of pockets on the inside – did they miss anything? Go to the web site and watch the video on all this bag can hold – amazing ! https://pennylinndesigns.com/collections/accessories/products/everything-organizer-tote

Of course getting a bag is still not enough – you NEED one – or more – of these great Rachael Barri mini magnetic clips and of course a canvas for it. I recently saw them in Stitch By Stitch NY and they are very strong. You can put it on your bag and attach something like your hat or on a golf bag your towel and off you go. They come in a bunch of colors and of course they have many canvases to choose from or just put in your initial. https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/products/rachel-barri-mini-clip-navy?_pos=1&_sid=7cb95e28b&_ss=r

Check out a new designer exclusively thru Atlantic Blue Canvas – DBL Designs. When you scroll thru the pictures above you may recognize the face of one of the women – yup – That is Diane Baxter, the owner of Threads Too in Fair Haven NJ. She and her daughter in law Lauren have designed a line of canvases showing off the NJ shore. Most are on 13 count and are an easy stitch. https://www.atlanticbluecanvas.com/collections/dlb-designs?_kx=_6T6ZEqw3FzRTyL6whjCxpBoWNmvx7M7ogeQHpVHlzk.SdsruM

The Brilliant Baubles club is making a return performance at the Needlepointer. Starting in Dec/Jan the club has 13 canvases by Eye Candy-she always has great color combinations. You get the canvas, threads and stitch guide AND if you sign up by 8/16/24 they will give you 15% off ! https://www.theneedlepointer.com/brilliant-baublesdiv-idclubsubtitleopen-enrollmentdiv/p8514194?cse=nl081024&goal=0_3621358244-9f573d7c10-69343533&mc_cid=9f573d7c10&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

For an in person class instead of online, check out Stitch By Stitch in NY. They are having 2 interesting classes this fall. A 2 day class on Oct 22nd and 23rd doing Jeni Sanberg’s tufted clutch. You can choose either colorway. OR, you can check out their 5 session class of Abigail Cecile’s Rooftops of NY. Both come with the canvas, threads, stitch guide and instruction. They also have other classes so it’s best to check out their web site. https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/pages/needlepoint-classes-learn-from-the-experts-at-stitch-by-stitch

Morgan Julia Designs has expanded so much they are moving to a bigger new space. Take a look at her video for a tour: https://ctrk.klclick.com/l/01J4EWHD948QCQB6Q1QJN35KB1_3 Her blog gives a sneak peak at the decor she is planning on that will eventually transform the space. Hopefully this means lots of new designs to come. Good Luck Morgan Julia !!

WOW – KC Needlepoint has a great deal !!! They will finish your canvas into a zip top clutch bag and turn it around in just 3 weeks !!! That’s what they say !! We will have to try it out !! https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/blogs/news/fast-zip-top-clutch-finishing-is-here?omnisendContactID=61fc368aa1816e00226a532d&utm_campaign=campaign%3A+Clutch+finishing+%2866a61eb96713778c3f78361e%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=omnisend

Ellen Johnson’s blog post on What’s your needlepoint Style was interesting. She is trying to sort thru her stash and pare down. She is putting up for sale those canvases she will never do on her Etsy site but was wondering what your personal needlepoint style was – read her post and decide what you are and maybe you too can lighten your stash !! LOL She has other posts on how to sort thru all that you have accumulated ! https://www.serendipityneedleworks.com/what-is-your-needlepoint-style/?utm_source=active-campaign&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=blog

Tips & Tricks: This trick comes from Stitch Stash and it makes a lot of sense. As you stitch your canvas put one thread of each color on the outside edge of your canvas. When your finished and find any missed stitch you will have the correct thread right there to fill it in.

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That is Ann-Marie Anderson – Mayes of Beautiful Stitches. She lives in Australia and is coming to this years seminar to teach “My Happy Place”. Better than that she is going to be teaching a program for our guild and it’s a choice of either Versailles or Grace’s Garden.

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?