Three New Teaching Designs

I'm happy to announce three new teaching designs which will be available for group workshops in the Fall of 2010.  I know that seems a long way away but it takes a while before the stitching is complete, they are finished (framing, pillow, purse, or other), instruction book is written, pilot is taught, etc.  About a month ago I posted some pictures of detail areas of two of the designs below, but I thought readers might be interested in seeing current sketches which combine the completed stitching with watercolor pencils and markers.  Mediterranean Squares is first and you have seen some progress photos before.  It's the most traditional of the three designs, but includes lots of interesting threads and small pattern combinations influenced by Middle Eastern tile and brickwork patterns. It's approx. 10 inches square.

 

Tropical Jazz is below and you have previously seen only "detail' photos.  This design has some new elements such as braid with added sequins (which I found at a local card and gift shop) and resin beads, both painted and unpainted, plus some more new threads.  Materials for your needlework can be found in unexpected places,...and it's fun besides!  It's about 8 inches X 13 inches.

 

Funky Rose was actually completed last year but it has now found a home!  It has a Polished Pigment background, ribbons, silk boucle and lots a real mix of threads PLUS sequins, Bead Gravy, and wire.  It's really makes a statement even though it's only 6 inches square. 

I'll finish stitching the two designs over the next few months and will post final photos and information about pilot classes.  They have all been fun to develop.  I learn something new while creating each new design....that's part of what makes it all so interesting.   I hope you enjoy them too!!

Happy Valentine's Day and happy rest of the weekend! Here in San Francisco we're going to enjoy our time indoors as it is raining and it's supposed to continue all week.   Oh well, we definitely need the rain so only a little complaining here.

Bargello Button Debut

I have spent part of the last two days getting the Bargello Button project ready for its debut. Everything is set, or on order, and the first kits will be ready to ship within 10 days. I hope to make this the first of several and will be very glad to hear what everyone thinks about it. You have certainly read enough about it I'm sure....and wondered when I would ever finish! So...........here it is with a link to its new page.

   

I've also been talking about making the instruction book 1/2 size and binding it with the Zutter Bind-it-All and above is the result. It fits just perfectly in the tote bag which comes with the kit and has a firm back to set in your lap while stitching (sports practice, dance classes, waiting for the plane???, etc).

PEAR - First Section Finished!

The first section of the pear is finished!  The diamonds show up much better now that they are filled in with a mix of thread colors....one of which is named Raspberry Custard.  Remember, the funny-looking  bottom will not be seen when the pear is finished and sitting on a shelf. 

Hopefully I will be able to get started on the other sections before I leave for Indian Wells, but if not, stitching will have to wait until my return on September 13th.  I don't take stitching with me on teaching trips anymore as there always seems to be so much else to do.  There are always meetings for the various organizations, plus the opening and closing banquets, teachers' showcase, merchandise night, etc.  And, there is the shop, bookstore and exhibit.....all to see.  So much to see and do and all in 8 days. 

I purchased a new, very lightweight, suitcase for this trip.  I was worried about trying to pack everything into one bag for this length of trip.  With the increased charges for overweight bags, I thought it was worth the investment.  Today I laid out everything for the trip....and ironed clothes....and it looks like I'll have plenty of room with at least 10 pounds to spare.  Hooray!  I'll give a report on how the bag worked and held up upon my return.   

I won't be taking my computer and don't plan to blog by email, so my next entry won't be for about two weeks.  But, if anyone needs to contact me about anything during that time, my email will be checked every day, and you will get a response. 

Wishing everyone a great two weeks!  And if you are going to Indian Wells, please look me up and say hi!  I'd love to see you!.