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?

We are days away from August (really ?!?!?!?) The year is flying by – we need to step it up on stitching that pumpkin (or at least I do!) I am very close to finishing a canvas so that is my excuse for now. Yesterday I saw one of our members starting her pumpkin – what a great color she was using. Certainly not one of the traditional orange colors which made it all the more intriguing. This month our meeting will be all about reviewing this past years Woodlawn submission. Linda M is putting together pictures of everything that went in. I am sure there will be a discussion about next year as well. We are also going to review the next section of the pumpkin with Jacqui. I believe the ladies that are going to the in person meeting will be eating dinner together at the library – BYON (Bring Your Own Needle) ! The meeting will be a full agenda!

The Kansas City Seminar is a month away – are you packed yet??? Make sure you give your name and phone number to Linda M so everyone can meet up and compare classes or have dinner together etc. Hope everyone has a wonderful time and comes home with all kinds of things to tell us at the next meeting.

If you would like to do a retreat closer to home – Needlepoint By the Bay is ready for you to sign up for their 3 day event in beautiful Newport RI. It will run from Friday March 21 to Sunday March 23rd 2025. They are planning some technique classes, raffles etc. Contact the store at 401-471-7614 Needlepoint by the Bay – Thread & Needle Supply

It has happened !!! We have all stitched our fingers to the bone and the finishers just can’t handle it. The Wool and The Floss has announced that they are pausing most finishing services. They are over run! They are still accepting some finishing but what most of us send in has the finishers ready to jump out the window (and hopefully they are on the bottom floor!) The wait is currently 6 to 12 months for what they have already accepted. They plan on giving an update mid October – stay tuned. The Wool and The Floss (woolfloss.com)

It’s no wonder so many stores are having classes on how to finish an ornament yourself. If your interested in taking one of these classes The Stitch Boutique is giving classes in 2 of their locations. Friday Aug 16th in the Wellesley store and Saturday 17th in the Winchester store. Remember you need to bring a 4″ round ornament and backing fabric with you. The classes are going to be small so call the store to see if they have openings 791-235-2477.

Another way to go is by using self finishing items. Stitch By Stitch in NY has a large array of handbags, jewelry boxes, luggage tags… and just beautiful Acrylic boxes. I had never seen an acrylic napkin holder before but they have it. They also have an acrylic candy box and a wide selection of the Penny Linn boxes with the magnets. Great to be able to change the needlepoint for different occasions. Needlepoint Canvases, Kits & Supplies | Stitch by Stitch (stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com)

I recently showed someone the basic needlepoint stitch. She loved it so why not try with young children and give them the gift of what we all know is a lifetime of fun, friends and more. Have you tried the needlepoint stitch cards – I know several people that are beginners that love them. KC Needlepoint has kits by Makers Marks, the same British designer Emma Homent, that created the cards. The kits are so cute you will want to do them yourself. The kit comes complete with everything you need. https://www.kcneedlepoint.com/collections/the-makers-marks-1?omnisendContactID=61fc368aa1816e00226a532d&utm_campaign=campaign%3A+Makers+Marks+Kits+%286691a1c8f3ca599c6beec2e7%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=omnisend

While your stitching with the younger generation – what could be better than stitching “Good Night Moon”. I’m sure many of you have seen the canvas but if you didn’t want to stitch something that big then look to Needlepoint .com – they have a series of 3 ornaments that you can buy as a kit or just the canvas and a separate stitch guide if you like. So sweet ! https://needlepoint.com/collections/goodnight-moon-kits?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=2024_07_27%20Goodnight%20Moon%20Round%2C%20Holiday%20in%20July%20Reminder&utm_klaviyo_id=01EY735XHE675Z0Z1C4Z7SB8DK&_kx=SpNrwJYeSg8JHGV3vDRNkpeUD67Ddf2hdz1HBTATTO0.TxAVmM

The Needlepointer has an interesting new club – “The Journey to Japan”. The club is designed to provide a deep appreciation for the beauty of Japan. The club runs for 9 months and will start in Nov/Dec. Each month you get the canvas, stitch guide and thread. https://www.theneedlepointer.com/the-needlepoint-journey-to-japandiv-idclubsubtitleopen-enrollmentdiv/p8514192?cse=nl072724&goal=0_3621358244-c72ec77fd4-69343533&mc_cid=c72ec77fd4&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

It’s that time again – the Summer Olympics. Did you watch the opening ceremonies last night? Of all the times to get rain. Well, rain or shine you can always stitch something in tribute and many places have a canvas or two but Wool & Willow dedicated their front shop window to it ! They have some great canvases and a lovely needleminder !! Vive La France !! Wool and Willow Needlepoint

NEWS FLASH Absolutely Needlepoint in Miami has been sold ! Margaret Schiffer (on the right in the photo) and Kristina Malagiero (on the left), are the wonderful women who, in late September, will become the new owners of Absolutely Needlepoint – soon to be named Stitch Miami. They have big plans for the store – can’t wait to see them in action !! Good Luck with this new endeavor. Absolutely Needlepoint – Discover a world of needlepoint and everything that comes with it.

Tips & Tricks: This tip is from Diversions Needlepoint (and the wee Scotty dog!)

Who was that Famous Stitcher? You all knew this one !! Meredith Willett of the famous M’s Canvas House in Lexington KY. She is the savy business woman that owns The Meredith Collection, Charley Harper, Big Buddy magnets,and a list of other designers. Her store should be on your bucket list to visit ! M’s Canvas House (mscanvashouse.com)

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

The July meeting is this coming week – have you started your pumpkin yet? Me either ! I have picked out some threads but not started. I know someone that did start and the very middle of the pumpkin has a great layered stitch. I can’t wait to do it now. This meeting will be more information on this project so I am looking forward to what is yet to come. I can’t wait to get to the stem and see how that is done !!!

This years Seminar in Kansas City is ready to rock and roll. Teacher letters have gone out and everyone is getting excited about their choices. If you are going to seminar, please contact Linda M. as she is putting together a list of everyone going from the chapter. She will share the information so you can get together while out there. It will be a wonderful time with lots to see and do. We are all looking forward to hearing about everyone’s experience when they return. If you have never been to a seminar you should go at least once – it is a great time.

Just a quick shout out to our new member here at NJNA. Welcome aboard Pat C. of CO. Glad you decided to join in on our fun. We are always open to suggestions and that brings me to something that is coming up. Cathryn C. is getting together a survey of what you would like to see us doing in the coming year. Make a list and check it twice so you can put it down on the survey when it comes out. You never know – you might make a suggestion that someone had never thought of but would enjoy trying.

I just realized that I had not looked at a bunch of emails on google. I missed a great idea !! Ridgewood Needlepoint will get you a custom painted canvas that can be made into the top of a box to hold all your holiday ornaments !! The canvas is 18 count and measures 6 X 14. What you could do with this canvas is limitless. Ridgewood has all the details about the finishing and of course will give you suggestions for threads and stitches. A great idea. Ridgewood Needlepoint

Ridgewood Needlepoint is also having their Annual Customer Stash Sale. This event runs for the month of August. Stitchers bring in to the shop canvases they no longer want to stitch. The canvases will be displayed in the store and the price is set by the owner. RN takes a percentage and the rest is paid to the owner of the canvas. Bargains can be had !! Contact the store if you have something to put in the sale at: stitches@ridgewoodneedlepoint.com Better yet go check out the stash early for the best choices.

The last item I missed from Ridgewood Needlepoint – they have the Wheelhaus Needlepoint collection of Garden State Parkway exits. If your not from NJ you need to know that everyone asks what exit you are from on the GSP !! It’s a NJ thing! Like pork roll or Taylor ham !! Wheelhaus has other different canvases you might want to check out along with accessories (and don’t we love those!). Wheelhaus Needlepoint — Needlepoint designs for the grand millennial (wheelhausndlpt.com)

The Needlepointer had so much success with it’s Box of Chocolates club that they brought it back with a twist. This time you get 4 canvases from the original box and the rest (20) are new, not to mention you get the box to go with it. Each month you get 2 canvases along with the thread and stitch guide. It begins in October so you will not make it for Valentines Day but what a unique item to have when it’s finished !! https://www.theneedlepointer.com/box-of-love-chocolates-wave-2div-idclubsubtitleopen-enrollmentdiv/p8514178?cse=nl071024&goal=0_3621358244-25e857fc6e-69343533&mc_cid=25e857fc6e&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

Morgan Julia Designs has revealed the 2nd canvas in her “Bar Cart Club” and it’s all about camping! From S’mores ingredients to a camp fire this canvas has it all. You also get a wooden needle tube, a duffel bag, friendship bracelet needleminder and a wooden frame. Let’s not forget the threads. I believe the club has been so popular that their is now a wait list !! The previous 2 sold out in a matter of hours. If you want to get in on this fun then hit this link and good luck !! https://morganjuliadesigns.com/collections/?_kx=rV4MBEfWGkwURglkyUXCLopGavY2DCJQzP6Y94aO8T4.RWeQns#bcc_new

While your at Morgan Julia’s web site check out her food canvases – they are terrific. She makes food whimsical and fun. So many to choose from and they make you hungry !! Some are small – great for a quick stitch or for travel. Food– Morgan Julia Designs

Have you seen some of the matching and gorgeous ribbons used on a Zecca canvas for finishing? They bring the canvas to a new level. Renaissance Ribbons has interesting new ribbons with whimsy that reminded me of the Zecca ones. What a great way to finish off a canvas as a pillow with a special ribbon – no one would have the same thing. One of the designers is the famous Kaffe Fassett who is the designer for many Ehrman needlepoint kits.https://renaissanceribbons.com/collections/just-added-new-ribbons

Tips & Tricks: I think Morgan Julia Designs has the right idea – don’t just stuff your WIP’s in a box or corner some place – show off the journey !! Try a Lucite Shelf and prop your canvas on it to show your progress. Another way is to put your WIP on a decorative Artist’s Easel. You can display it in a book shelf on a table etc. Perhaps a big cork board might work better and then you can add inspirational items around it. Show people what your grand scheme is for this piece. There is also nothing wrong with a basket either so your project is easy to grab and start stitching.

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That is Ann-Marie Anderson-Mayes from Australia. Her company is known as Beautiful Stitches. Her creations are amazingly intricate with very vibrant hand dyed threads. She will be teaching a 3 day class at Seminar this year. When she is done she will be coming to visit many of the guilds – including NJNA !!!! We are so excited ! MyBeautifulStitches – Etsy

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?

It’s too hot outside – stay in and stitch !!

I don’t know about you, but I went to my stash to see if I had enough threads to do our new pumpkin project. What a joke ! I came away with a basket full of choices. It’s going to be a great way to clean out and have a neat looking fall item no matter how you finish it off. Remember – it doesn’t have to be orange. I heard someone saying they were thinking of putting a scene on their pumpkin. I just knew it, there is going to be a variety of patterns, colors and maybe theme’s from this very creative bunch of women. It would be fun to see them all together at the Holiday Luncheon this year !!

WOW I just say the email from ANG with the new issue of Needlepoint’s Magazine. This is going to be another cover to cover read. Look closely at our own Linda M’s article A Tale of Two Stitchers. This time they did Gayla Elliot’s “Boating Girls”. The details both stitcher’s put into this is just a delight to look at. All you counted lovers are going to love the cover this time. I know several people that are going there first if for nothing else than the color!! The back cover is pretty spectacular also. Let’s not forget our own Melita G’s column Timeless Treasures – she finds some of the most interesting things from past issues. I may have eye strain from reading it on the computer because I have no patience to wait for the “snail mail”.

ANG is also looking for volunteers for quite a few positions. They also listed positions that will be open for 2025. If you are looking to be more involved they have a need !!

The summer season has begun which means VACATION !! I know not one person that would go away without their needlepoint. They also make sure to do their research before leaving to see if there is a shop near where they are staying. I have been reading about tips for flying with your stitching along with neat items to travel with. You will want to think about some of these things if your going to seminar ! I think it might be a sucker bet that we all don’t already have this stuff but — you never know! Absolutely Needlepoint had lots of suggestions from a Victoria Whitson key fob with tools attached to a scissor that is hidden to that small but powerful clip on light by Vivilux and much more. Great suggestions and accessories ! Absolutely Needlepoint – Discover a world of needlepoint and everything that comes with it.

Look also online at Morgan Julia Designs for great items for traveling. She has a wonderful bag that TSA must be grateful for as it has a clear window on each side. She also has other bags some in different sizes with and without a selection of needed tools. Even if your not flying she has a great looking small scissor that looks like it’s made of bamboo. Plenty of accessories to look at on her web site as well. Morgan Julia Designs – Needlepoint Canvases

Need a gift for a fellow stitcher? While your looking on Morgan Julia Designs she has some creative ort holders !! I understand why some are sold out – these are not !! Hint – Hint !!

There are 2 new clubs you can join in on. The first must have been so good they are doing a rerun of it ! Needlepoint .com is going to do Topiary Trees starting Oct/Nov.  These five topiary trees were designed exclusively for The Needlepointer by Alice Peterson. With an array of fibers, textures and embellishments they are sure to look spectacular. You get a tree every other month for 5 months along with a stitch guide and threads. https://www.theneedlepointer.com/christmas-tree-primary-colorsdiv-idclubsubtitleopen-enrollmentdiv/p8514179?cse=nl062224&goal=0_3621358244-2f22b1dd8d-69343533&mc_cid=2f22b1dd8d&mc_eid=2e6039e84f

The other club is just adorable – Atlantic Blue Canvas is doing a Radio City Rockette Club. Everything you think of when you hear the annual Christmas Show is announced. Starting in July the club runs for 5 months and includes the usual 5 canvases, stitch guide and threads. You will also get embellishments, a sticker and a surprise non needlepoint item. It is also different that the first box you get will include stretcher bars, tacks, needles (beading and tapestry) and beading thread. https://www.atlanticbluecanvas.com/products/club-5-month-subscription?selling_plan=4776165536&variant=50533818826912&_kx=_6T6ZEqw3FzRTyL6whjCxpBoWNmvx7M7ogeQHpVHlzk.SdsruM

If you have been to London you may be interested in the new ornaments that just came out thru Needlepoint .com – holiday doors of famous department stores ! They are just charming and festive. https://needlepoint.com/collections/london-store-fronts?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=2024_07_29%20London%20Store%20Fronts&utm_klaviyo_id=01EY735XHE675Z0Z1C4Z7SB8DK&_kx=SpNrwJYeSg8JHGV3vDRNkpeUD67Ddf2hdz1HBTATTO0.TxAVmM

Not far from London is Paris and the Olympics. Hedgehog Needlepoint, the maker of those fabulous retro luggage tags has made a tag for the Olympics. Of course it’s sold out as of now but I am sure it will be back in stock shortly. In the mean time they have 6 other tags for France. https://hedgehogneedlepoint.com/collections/2024-parisian-games-retro-travel-tag/products/2024-parisian-games-retro-travel-tag

Serendipity Needleworks has done a blog post about “Storage Solutions” for your threads. She makes a lot of sense and has that problem solved in just a few steps !! Read her blog post and then get the threads you need for our program – the pumpkin !! https://www.serendipityneedleworks.com/3-essential-tips-organizing-storing-needlepoint-thread/

Yikes – It’s again time for the Summer Virtual Market !! My stash can’t take it !! Oh but look at some of the new things that are out anyway. It doesn’t hurt to browse. As usual, Stitch By Stitch in NY has a great variety of the newest canvases on their web site. Look if you dare. https://stitchbystitchneedlepoint.com/collections/2024-summer-virtual-needlepoint-show?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=campaign&utm_campaign=2024%20Summer%20Virtual%20Market%20-%20Day%201%20Shopping&utm_id=01J10RQPS24A6G1QCNSZX4V87J&_kx=6D5Y7Jiene-hlgseirQx1RFyVxGMpjd5qfVYcayxxNM.SwCMrn

Just when you thought you saw everything — there is “Stitchers Garden” on FaceBook. Someone is stitching a cane chair – only 2 more rows to go !!!

Tips and Tricks: You have a canvas and want to put a background on it to fit a particular frame or size – here is a solution. Go to The Wool and the Floss and get their templates to put over your item and figure how far you need to stitch. It even has the dead center with 4 quadrants so you know you are on the center. Then draw around the template. They have both circles / ovals and squares / rectangles. Such a simple solution !!! Notions & Accessories (woolfloss.com)

Who was that Famous Stitcher? That was Jo Ippolito Christensen – the author of the wildly famous “The Needlepoint Book” which has been around since 1976 and has been updated several times. She has also written other books to teach you our favorite hobby.

Do you know who this famous stitcher is?