Hope you remembered to attend the meeting since it was on a different day this past month. June is the next time that our meeting will be on a different day of the month – I’ll remind you !! If you missed then you missed the next part to be stitched on Tumbling Stripes. Everyone is stitching the next four stripes and spoiler alert – the next 3 are the following month. You also missed the talk Jacqui C. gave on using a laying tool and the different kinds you can buy. Loved her description of how the threads should line up on the tool like they are the Rockette’s !! Yes – we actually have fun at our meetings!! You need to belong to join in the fun !

The results are in and NJNA members received 7 awards in the 61st Woodlawn Needlework Show. Congratulations to all the winners ! Amy B., Sue C. (2), Rosie L., Melita G. and Linda M (2)

Don’t forget that registration is now open for the Kansas City Seminar and in the blink of an eye – 3 classes are already filled. Wendy Moore is going to be tired, 2 of the 3 are her’s, Moon on the water and Pyramids at the Oasis. Toni Gerdes’s Zelda the patchwork Zebra is also filled. There are plenty of other great items in the line up but I think you need to be fast ! Go to the ANG web site and make a selections quickly if you plan on going.

Don’t forget to vote !!!! You should have gotten an email on 3/8 with a link to vote for the 2024 slate of nominees and the changes to the By-Laws. You can always log in on the ANG web site and vote.

A big thank you to Melita G – she got in touch with Gail Stafford and let me know that Gail is retiring but only from her “real life job as a math teacher at North Carolina Wesleyan College”. She will continue to teach and design needlework – thank goodness !!!! She has some of the most beautiful scenery one can stitch along with her bargello projects.

Spring Market items are still coming out even though it doesn’t start until March 22 – 24. Can you imagine what we will see then?? Love to look at the new stuff even if my wallet is shut tight – maybe. Here are some more sneak peaks from Voila, Wipstitch and Kate Dickerson but there are many more that you can look at in Stitch By Stitch’s web site 2024 Spring Market – Charlotte – Stitch by Stitch (stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com)

Maybe you want a smaller venue for a retreat, something not quite as big as Seminar? Take a look at Stitching Fox – they have 2 retreats later this year that you can sign up for. The first is with Debbie Stiehler for ” Zecca Butterflies”. This is being held 9/7-9. Then they have an embellishment class from 10/ 4-6 with Cynthia Thomas. They made arrangements for a place to stay with the Orchard Inn, which is a beautiful looking small B&B and spa. I feel relaxed just looking at the picture! They have also included places to go and things to do. Sounds like a fun event. https://www.stitchingfox.com/collections/events

KC Needlepoint is having a very exciting month – First, they have moved the store this week !! Maybe we will see pictures soon of their new space. Second, they are about to start their Annual Project. This year is all about trying new fibers. Each kit has 4 hand painted canvases from SCT Designs, stitch guides by Jenny Mcauliffe, 24 skeins of Plant Earth Milan, floss away bags and it’s all shipped for free. They are all the perfect size for coasters and look like a quick stitch. https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/products/2024-coaster-kit?_pos=1&_sid=b28ad0c2f&_ss=r&variant=44372035043502

You may remember this cute Summer Memories canvas by Pippin. The Needlepointer has now turned it into a club. Each month you get threads and a stitch guide for one of the sections so this is only a 6 month club. The guides are by various designers – Meredith Willett, Laura Taylor, David McCaskill, Jill Rigoli and Patricia Sone. Nothing says summer like mosquito’s and ice cream. https://www.theneedlepointer.com/summer-memoriesdiv-idclubsubtitleopen-enrollmentdiv/p8511321?cse=nl030924&goal=0_3621358244-4e44ba89f5-69343533&mc_cid=4e44ba89f5&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

The 20th is the first day of Spring and what a nice way to start the season, by thinking of going away. Hedgehog Needlepoint has brand new luggage tags in 5 colors but this time they are round ! They make a great way to display other stitched items – not just on luggage! They are also adding to the list of collegiate hearts that they have partnered with Kangaroo Paw on. Lot’s to see and I believe lot’s more to come in the future ! https://hedgehogneedlepoint.com/

Hmmmm, not sure how to approach this one – Are you short of time (yes, we all are) BUT Atlantic Blue Canvas has taken their top 5 ornaments – STITCHED THEM – FINISHED THEM and will sell them to you. You read that right – talk about a short cut !! Check out their web site – they have such cute things you may find something you want to stitch yourself !! LOL https://www.atlanticbluecanvas.com/collections/finished-ornaments-1?_kx=_6T6ZEqw3FzRTyL6whjCxpBoWNmvx7M7ogeQHpVHlzk.SdsruM

Tips and Tricks: I was reading about how to deal with the self finishing items they now have. I was stunned to read that “needlepoint stitches are longer horizontally than they are vertically!” This means that we were not crazy when things we stitched were not quite square !! Measuring for these items is very important as the painted area may be short of the opening and you need 2 rows to tuck under the edge. Next time I’ll have more tips on doing self finishing !

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That was Lois Caron, owner of The Caron Collection of threads. Lois started by designing and painting patterns on needlepoint canvas and selling them to stores. She then started to dye her own threads in her kitchen which has since moved to an 8,000 sq ft industrial space. She has 8 different thread lines and is distributed worldwide.

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

Don’t feel bad you are not alone – many forgot that this months meeting is actually next week! We will have the next part of Tumbling Stripes on the 28th. I have seen some that are being worked on and the color combos are wonderful. I am sure we will see more during the meeting. Also, just a quick shout out to Janet K for her generous donation towards the new member gifts, thank you again.

Nothing says Spring like birds in birdhouses which is what the new cover of the Needle Pointers Magazine looks like. They are catching up with some of their publishing issues and said the magazine will be in your hands in the next 1 to 2 weeks. For now though, you can look at it online and it again looks like a great read. I was looking quickly at it and then came to the back cover – WOW. To make that outstanding, you need to enjoy beading – but worth the effort !!

ANG has a new program that is just starting called The Quarterly Stitch. Each quarter, you’ll gain access to a downloadable stitch guide, packed with unique patterns and tips. That’s not all! They will be bringing you fresh patterns regularly, straight from a previous Chapter Project Book—now available to ALL ANG members! The first project is called “I Love America”. The one thing you have to remember though, you must download the project during that quarter because once the next quarterly project is available the last one goes away and is not accessible any longer. Snooze and you loose. Check it out on the ANG web site. https://www.needlepoint.org

ANG wants to thank everyone for making the Winter Auction a success. Can’t wait to see what the next auction brings !

So what is March 1st??? Besides the weather coming in like a lamb here in northern New Jersey it’s the Nashville Needlework Market !!! March 1-3 which means – NEW STUFF !!! Some are just starting to appear on web sites like Stitch By Stitch in NY. Kate Dickerson must have done very well with the snow globe ornaments as there are a bunch of new ones coming out. Naturally you can’t do without a “Swiftie” canvas and you gotta love the Tiffany building. I am sure there will be lots more coming – stay tuned ! 2024 Spring Market – Charlotte – Stitch by Stitch (stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com)

If you need your coffee first thing in the morning – check out the new Zoom class done thru Gone Stitching in Bergenfield NJ. So many things you can do with this canvas – looks like a fun stitch. Gone Stitching

This new class should give you a Spring Feeling – Eggs !!! So cute – 3 Easter Eggs by KC Needlepoint. Since this is just 3 canvases everything you need for all 3 will be shipped together including the stitch guide by Jenny McAuliffe, canvases and fibers. Definitely a quick stitch !https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/products/polka-dot-easter-vignette-basket-kit?_pos=4&_sid=d3bdee167&_ss=r&omnisendContactID=61fc368aa1816e00226a532d&utm_campaign=campaign%3A+Egg+Club+%2865c1241fcfeec4d49b2834b7%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=omnisend

Do you know someone that would like to try needle pointing? The Needlepointer has a new club that might be just the right thing. Stitching 101: A Beginner’s guide to Needlepoint should begin in June and gives you everything you need to create a reference guide and practice various stitches. It comes with a binder, bars, canvas, tacks fibers……. Worth the price of $39 per month. https://www.theneedlepointer.com/stitching-101-a-beginners-guide-to-needlepointdiv-idclubsubtitleopen-enrollmentdiv/p8511188?cse=nl022423&goal=0_3621358244-56310f6688-69343533&mc_cid=56310f6688&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

Needlepoint .com has a new stitch along that is just starting. You need to do this thru Instagram – every Sunday a new part of the stitch guide will be posted for Pepperberry’s Santa Teddy Bear’s. Pick a bear and it comes with the canvas, threads and a needle. https://needlepoint.com/collections/teddy-bears-sunday-stitch-along?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=2024_02_17%20Stitch%20Along&utm_klaviyo_id=01EY735XHE675Z0Z1C4Z7SB8DK&_kx=SpNrwJYeSg8JHGV3vDRNkpeUD67Ddf2hdz1HBTATTO0.TxAVmM

Rittenhouse has something different – sort of like adult coloring – just with thread. They have different drawn canvases that you fill in the colors and stitches of your choice. A great stash buster or try some of their Thread Party Packs. So much creativity to this !! https://rittenhouseneedlepoint.com/products/rittenhouse-needlepoint-moorish-tile-pattern-2-needlepoint-canvas?_pos=1&_sid=f3b96cfb4&_ss=r&utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=campaign&_kx=QNbnum1iUEN5weUC3DuK75aOlVx0Dud-BR0a603hRFw.TU8N4e

How cute are these baskets from Sew Much Fun???? You want one of each ! Contact Absolutely Needlepoint for information. https://absolutelyneedlepoint.com/

If you need a small project to take with you on a trip, KC Needlepoint has a good one – they have kits for self finishing leather eyeglass cases that come with threads and they will personalize 3 block letters for a monogram on the 13 count canvas. There are 5 colors to choose from – bet they go fast !! https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/products/monogram-eyeglass-case-kit?omnisendContactID=61fc368aa1816e00226a532d&utm_campaign=campaign%3A+Self+Finishing+eyeglass-+monogram+%2865d35347d1cdcc64e272089a%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=omnisend

Moore Stitching has reminded us – in their own little way – that this is a Leap Year. Since Leap Year happens every 4 years – get into it while you can! Moore Stitching is the one that gave us the pictures of Queen Elizabeth with the giant hat on her head while demurely holding her purse. They have so many cute canvases to celebrate Leap Year with . https://moorestitching.com/collections/new-arrivals

Tips and Tricks: Women are know for “chatting” but honestly it’s a valuable tool which we have mastered! I was chatting with Joan G about how I used the silverware holder from the defunct dishwasher to hold unused stretcher bars and she had a great idea – she uses a basket with the dividers from a wine box to sort all that lumber we acquire !! How clever is that one?? You can buy dividers on Amazon (of course) or you can go to a Storage Place and purchase a box that has dividers for glassware. It might be more fun though to go to a place like Total Wine and do a little shopping to get it free !!! LOL

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That was Toni Gerdes. You name it – Toni has done it ! She has taught for NAN, EGA, ANG, guilds and shops. Her designs are beautiful and ask anyone, her stitch guides are superb. If you go to her web site you will see that her teaching dance card is FULL !! Toni Gerdes Needlearts – Teaching Schedule

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

What’s new at NJNA – we have 3 new members !!! We all want to welcome Charlotte, Eileen and Patricia – hoping you have as much fun as we all do here at NJNA. This month we will be continuing with our Tumbling Stripes program. Now that everyone has basted (yech!) it’s time to get to the good stuff – stitching the stripes. Soon we will see those color combinations come alive. We are also trying something new with this class. As a member of NJNA you got an email letting you know that the classes held at the meeting have been recorded. We all know that life can get in the way of our stitching at times so if you couldn’t make the meeting or want to see something for clarification you can see what went on in the mtg all over again. The videos are on our web site under “Chapter Programs”. Contact Jacqui C. if you would like to jump in late.

One of the most interesting instructors that ANG uses is Gail Stafford. She has completed her Master Craftsman certification from EGA and has created a broad range of subjects to stitch. She is known for taking a Gazebo and not only stitching it from many angles but different seasons. She then goes in a whole other directions and does wild bargello patterns. I have taken a class with her and she was great but sadly she is going to retire. We all wish her well and hope that she pops back in now and again with something new for us to stitch. Enjoy your retirement Ms Stafford – we all enjoyed your classes.

It’s that time of year again – February 8th is Broken Needle Day. This is a 400 year old Japanese, Buddhist and Shinto Festival. On this day, the seamstresses take a holiday and bring their old and broken needles to the temple to stick them in a piece of tofu in a spirit of tenderness and gratitude for their service over the past year. They also take the opportunity to pray for improved skills. Even if you don’t celebrate it on the 8th make sure you get rid of any worn out needles and have a sweet treat to celebrate.

Now for some important information – The Edwardian Needle is going to be giving classes again. As you know, those classes fill up quickly so call the store for more information and to get your name on the list of participants. (973) 743-9833. We will also be in the company of Tony Minieri. He will be at the Edwardian to teach his creation “Mystere” in June. He will then be back in September for his famous Canvas Embellishment classes. And if that is not enough – there is also going to be a “Pop Up” of our favorite maker of all things dealing with storing your canvas and tools. Trish Vine Designs is coming with all her colorful creations Tuesday May 21st. Normally the store is closed but Pam will be open for everyone to shop until they drop !

It’s almost here again – The ANG Winter Online Auction. It will be open from Feb 15th thru the 18th. You never know what you need to have !! Go to the web site: http://www.needlepoint.org and hit the events tab to find your way to something new and unexpected.

ANG has a new Workshop By Mail called “Everyday’s a Holiday” It’s by pdf only but how cute is that. You have until the end of April to get the instructions. https://www.needlepoint.org/page/Every_Days_a_holiday

Galentines Day is February 13th (though people celebrate any day between Feb 1 and 14th). I can think of a thousand and one ideas for a gift for your BFF. Needlepoint Clubhouse had some excellent ideas but also think about the ANG 50 for 50 Fundraiser project “Heartstrings” by Toni Gerdes. That’s a 2 for1 bang – ANG and your BFF !!! The Needlepoint Clubhouse

New Club starting !! Stitch Stash has a sweet looking Nutcracker series that will go for 4 months starting in March. They are 4 inch rounds and on 13 count – a breeze to finish !!! Each kit is the canvas, stitch guide and thread. https://stitch-stash.com/collections/nutcracker-club/products/nutcracker-club-4-in-the-series

A club like that puts you in the mood for the Christmas season and what do you think of most when it comes to stitching those holiday items but —- Beards !!! Needlepoint .com has an online class to show you many techniques for stitching beards and mustaches. They send you a blank canvas with faces to practice on along with a stitch guide, thread pack and access to on-demand video instruction. Of course this is only Part 1 so there must be more on the way. https://needlepoint.com/products/santas-beard-mustache-part-i-online-needlepoint-class?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=2024_01_30%20Santa%20Star&utm_klaviyo_id=01EY735XHE675Z0Z1C4Z7SB8DK&_kx=SpNrwJYeSg8JHGV3vDRNkpeUD67Ddf2hdz1HBTATTO0%3D.TxAVmM

I happen to be nosy yesterday and was looking at Amy B’s laying tool as she was showing it to someone. It was metal and was nicely balanced. It also did not have a point on it that could be used to chip ice with. She told me the brand name and I had to look it up. What an interesting web site – maybe a bit nerdy but aren’t we all that do this craft ? The owner is a long time stitcher but use to be an engineer for medical equipment and uses her skills to create not only laying tools but acrylic finishing for needlework – and more. Island House Needlepoint – Needlepoint Finishing This laying tool happens to be magnetic so it stays put on your canvas or stand – no rolling away. She also has some other accessory items and needlepoint kits. Check out her web site – it was not only interesting it was relaxing to look at.

Oh No – Ruth Schmuff is doing a ZECCA RETREAT !!!! She and Karen Hennessy have been doing this for 10 years. She will be teaching Sat and Sun March 16 and 17 on Zoom from 11 AM to 1:30 PM. The skeleton is 6 inches by 24 inches on 18 count canvas. https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2024/02/zecca-retreat-2024/?utm_source=mailpoet&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=the-last-newslettertotal-posts-from-our-blog-1

Tips and Tricks: Ruth Schmuff has a very interesting tip for figuring out how to count a pattern that has a lot of compensation. (She is so clever). If you are to stitch a square and eyelet pattern on the dog but not where the flowers and leaves are she says to use your laying tool to enlarge the hole a bit in the pattern – see 2nd picture. How much easier in the long run is that?? Read her tip to get the nitty gritty – worth it !! https://bedeckedandbeadazzled.com/2024/02/counting-tip/

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That is the infamous Amy Bunger. Her store – Amy’s Golden Strand was known to all until she closed it. Her stitch guides are sought after for her innovative creations.

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

Everyone enjoy stitching during the Super Bowl !

The first meeting of the year is now in the books and we are off to a big start with Tumbling Stripes. I am looking forward to seeing what colorways everyone has chosen. This project will be the topic for the next 3 months and you will see – it will stitch up quickly. Next project on the agenda will be the Jelly Fish (Sea Jelly) – the one I am waiting for !!! Such a great looking small project. This year has so much more packed into it as we go thru the months – all the more reason to send in your dues or even join in the fun and become a member. Just an FYI – the library had booked another event on the night of our usual evening meeting in February so our mtg will be held on the 4th Wed of the month Feb 28th.

The Needlepointers magazine has finally arrived in the mail box and it is packed with so many things to see. The cow face, the woman in the yellow hat, the mermaid AND THAT SLICE OF CHOCOLATE CAKE !!! WOW ! It also came with the Registration Brochure for this years seminar in Kansas City. Just another item to sit with your favorite beverage and page thru slowly. So much to read and look at. Both items you can go back and look a 2nd or 3rd time and find you missed something as there is so much.

ANG has also announced their Winter Online Auction. Mark your calendars for Feb 15th thru the 18th for all the hidden treasures you can bid on.

A legend in the world of Needle Point has passed – Carole Lake. She was such an accomplished stitcher with numerous books and patterns she created along with her collaborative efforts with Michael Boren. She has been given so many awards they are too numerous to list. She started out by getting a BA from Rice University in Houston TX in Foreign Languages but her real forte was with a needle and thread. Many of her books and patterns are still available on her web site. StitchPlay Designs She made doing a Double Fan Doubled a doable stitch with her wonderful directions – she will be greatly missed.

Another legend in the world of needlepoint has just decided to retire – David McCaskill. After designing and teaching for more than 30 years he has decided to take it easy. He has designed some of the most well known designs such as the Background Sampler and then version #2. His playful designs of ghosts peaking out of windows or a 3d house, each side a different season or beautiful Christmas tree toppers and candles of all sorts make his kits small treasures. Since he personally painted or line drew everything you will be lucky to find someone that is giving up their kit. Wishing him a much needed rest in his retirement but we will all miss his unique designs.

In case you did not know – the Winter Virtual Market just finished and yes – I know – you don’t need another canvas BUT it’s still fun to look !! Stitch By Stitch in NY has a part of their web site dedicated to what they bought and can order. (you never know what you might find – sorry – might want, as it’s not about need !) Check out their photos of which I have some below to entice you with – LOL !! Winter Virtual Market 2024 – Stitch by Stitch (stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com)

Hold on to your wallets – the next big market comes in March !!! Yes, another one ! Needle Orts is putting on FaceBook, Instagram and their web site previews daily so they can bring back what you want. There are limited edition items and show specials that you can take advantage of by using their web site early before they are gone. They also ask that you let them know in advance what your favorite designers are so they can make the most of the show for what you want to see. Sounds like a clear plan to me. Go ahead and look – it doesn’t hurt ! LOL https://www.needleorts.com/shop/Cross-Stitch/Nashville-Previews-and-Wish-List.htm

While your on the Needle Orts site you might want to look at their new possible club – The 13 Days of Halloween. It will not start until later this year and go into 2025. They are looking for interest right now for ordering purposes. They are cute though ! Email the store at : shop@needleorts.com

The Needlepointer is also starting a new club to hurry summer – Popsicles of the Month. They expect it to start in May and run for 12 months. The canvases are by A. Bradley Needlearts and the stitch guide is by Cynthia Thomas. Each month you get the canvas, threads, stitch guide and a popsicle stick for finishing. https://www.theneedlepointer.com/popsicles-of-the-month-clubdiv-idclubsubtitleopen-enrollmentdiv/p8506161?cse=nl012724&goal=0_3621358244-5b7a239938-69343533&mc_cid=5b7a239938&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

The Needlepoint Club House has a new feature you can sign up for – The Weekend Stitch. They show you a new stitch each time in a BIG picture. They explain where to use it along with tips on thread to use, canvas size and color plus suggestions of canvases you can try it out on. It’s a nice way to get a suggestion when your trying to decide on a stitch for a specific place. The Needlepoint Clubhouse

The Wool & Willow Needlepoint have some different key fobs – Champagne Bottles ! It even comes with the insert for $43 – a steal ! So different. https://www.woolandwillow.com/search?q=champagne+bottle+key+fob&_pos=4&_psq=key+fob&_ss=e&_v=1.0

Louise’s Needlepoint has a great gift item – an Emergency Stitch Kit. For $25 you get a magnet, a pair of Super Snips, a needle threader, a mini porcupine laying tool, two vials of
needles (size 20 and 22), and they come all in a little plastic box – how great is that !?!?! Louise’s Needlework – Home (louisesneedlework.com)

Tips and Tricks : The Colonial Needle Company has a new product to make creating your own ornaments (and other uses) easier. They are selling a Temporary Adhesive Spray by Roxanne. It’s a fine mist of adhesive that is clear, odorless, acid and solvent free. Over time it evaporates. This allows you to reposition a stitched piece without using pins when your trying your hand at finishing. You can buy it from Colonial Needle or a craft store. https://colonialneedle.com/products/rx-tas72?mc_cid=7859c186b7&mc_eid=5e97334b5b

One more tip – Now don’t ask me why but when my dishwasher broke I took out the silverware basket before they took away the machine. I actually thought my husband would re-purpose it but – no I pressed it into service and can tell you it works great. I had a lot of smaller stretcher bars and the drawer I had them in was getting overwhelmed. Yup – it works like a charm !! Even has a handle to carry it easily! LOL For now it does the job.

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That was non other than Kelly Clark. She has been doing needle work since she was 5 years old. She has a degree in Interior Design and Textiles. After becoming a mom she started her own business in 2005 and hasn’t stopped since !!

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

Welcome to 2024 at NJNA and it looks like it’s going to be a promising year ahead. Earlier in the month we had our Holiday Luncheon at The Grain House and again it was a lovely event. Thank you Cathryn with help from Jacqui along with that neat little treat at each seat. We all enjoyed our meals but mostly the company and lets not forget the Show and Share. There were some really amazing pieces that our members stitched this past year. Several people also brought their 2023 Stitch of the Month which was fun to see the different colorways. The new chapter project was debuted – Marilyn Owens “Tumbling Stripes”. Seeing all the colorways makes you want to stitch this piece. With this and much more in the coming months you want to join NJNA now so you don’t miss out on any of the fun we have.

Have you renewed your ANG membership?? You can’t belong to NJNA unless you have done so. It’s easy to do, just go online though there are other options. While your in their web site check out some of those fund raiser projects – a little something for everyone and the money goes to support the programs that ANG does, not to mention it’s tax deductible. ANG has also announced the 2024 Stitch of the Month – Purple Passion by Linda LaChance.

Needlepointers Magazine seems to have had it’s share of problems but you can now see it online and I would imagine it will be in your mail box soon. If your a dog lover your going to love the “Tale of Two Stitchers” article. They also have an article on laying tools which I am looking forward to reading. As you page thru it there is a lot to enjoy in this issue.

The time has come – the holidays are over and we have that laborious job of putting it all away for next years festivities. Some shops offer various bags and boxes for acid free storage. Of course there is the old fall back these days – Amazon. You all worked so hard on these items and you want them to last for generations – they need to be stored the best way possible.

Now it’s time for you – how about a get away ??? KC Needlepoint is doing a “Needlepoint Artist Weekend” get away in April. It’s being held at a brand new hotel and they have a shuttle service that will take you to the store. There are classes you can sign up for and many designers will be there like Thorn Alexander, Stitch Style, SCT Designs, Ziggy Stitches and more. https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/products/kc-needlepoint-artist-retreat-april-12-14-2024

The Stitching Fox in South Carolina has an interesting idea. Their store has an apartment above it and they rent it out thru AirBnB. It accommodates 4 with a big bright open area along with access to an outside deck and yard. You and friends can make your own retreat. https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1052832804980878404?adults=1&s=42&unique_share_id=BFC21E53-669A-404A-AF46-D85E66F1769F&_branch_match_id=1271287442617985531&_branch_referrer=H4sIAAAAAAAAA8soKSkottLXT0zKS9LLTdXPKslzzjZ1qwx1SwIAVUF3gRsAAAA%3D&source_impression_id=p3_1704336772_D%2Ftx9hxgzlSfzk3i

Poppypointe in Virginia is going to have a stitch in with Doug Kreinik on February 11 & 12. The first day will be a stitch in but the 2nd day will be a thread class and tour of the factory with Doug and his team. That has to be interesting ! https://poppypointe.com/products/kreinik-road-trip-feb-11-12

Now that we are in the start of 2024 it’s time for the KC Needlepoint Annual Project. It’s called 24 in 2024. You stitch 4 coasters using 24 different colors. It starts in February so if your a threadaholic this is the club for you. https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/products/2024-coaster-kit?omnisendContactID=61fc368aa1816e00226a532d&utm_campaign=campaign%3A+24+in+24+%28659edebe143b3087cdb3237f%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=omnisend

M’s Canvas House has an adorable club featuring Flamingo’s !! There are 6 in total and you need to contact the store to join in the fun. 859-253.-1302  https://www.mscanvashouse.com/

BeStitched in Arizona is going to have 4 Masterclasses for this beautiful canvas by Love You More Designs. The classes will focus on three dimensional techniques to make the Pomegranates come to life.  Weaving/Basket techniques and beading. https://bestitchedneedlepointshop.com/products/pomegranate-passion-a-bestitched-masterclass

New – New – New from Kathy Rees. She is doing a new Mystery class thru the Shining Needle Society called Ups and Downs as that is how her 2023 went ! I think we can all relate. She also has 3 new projects on her web site. Rainbow Square, Lovestruck and Christmas Rounds #9. Check it out. https://needledelights.com/product-category/coming-soon/

Now that we over bought with all the sales and the Winter Virtual Market is Jan 20 and 21 so we will be having green eyes again it might be a good time to mark how much stitching time you actually do (to catch up with all those projects !). Trish Vine our friendly Canvas Keeper Maker and all around great person posted on her Face Book page a way to keep track of how many days you stitch! Adult coloring at it’s finest !! Color each section date if you stitched that day. Come on, let’s try to color the entire thing in !!!!

Tips and Tricks: If you bead on projects, particularly doing “messy beading” have I got an interesting item – a “Speedle Needle” by Bead Smith. This needle not only has a way to hold on to the thread AND a big eye to be able to thread it easily (and not throw it across the room) but on the end it has a barb. You simply push the needle into the tube of beads over and over and watch the beads rise up along the needle so you can push them on the thread. Look at this video by the Beadaholique – it’s amazing! Bing Videos

You can also get carried away and try a “Mini Spin & String” by Beadsmith which is amazing to watch. How to Use the Beadsmith Spin and String (youtube.com)

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That is one of our favorite and quirky designers Karen Hennessy aka Zecca ! She has been “making stuff” since she was a child. All sorts of things from jewelry to greeting cards to pots, ceramics and the list goes on. She attended school in Philadelphia, Boston, Oakland and Rome. After working for what she calls “A sleazy fashion company” on 7th Ave. she decided to earn a living her own way and that is when Zecca was born.

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?