WILD ROSES

While we had a great time on Thanksgiving, I'm glad to get back to a "normal" routine for a few weeks before the Christmas rush begins! I still haven't started stitching my next new design for proposals, but did finally finish the Wild Roses Oval Box I have been struggling with for a few months now.  The canvas sat in its spot on the mantle for the last week or so just waiting for me to take it down and finish stitching the top. The sides went smoothly, but the top, that's another story.  It stared at me several times a day.....and I stared back.  Finally something clicked and I knew how to proceed.  I had the top completed in two evenings!!

Recently this approach has worked for me.  Just a suggestion for anyone to try if this happens with a project of yours. 

Today we are attempting to bring my new website online.  I've done most of the work myself to construct the site, but all this Domain Mapping, etc. is beyond me.   I'm so glad to have a great hubby to work through this maze for me!  Hopefully all will be up and running by this next Wednesday AM.  I'm really excited for everyone to be able to view it.

Tomorrow I'm off to see Marlene (my finisher) to deliver the canvas....in hopes of getting it back by early January.  May be by the end of this week I'll have some progress to show on the development of the new design. 

ORCHID

Orchid is the third in my series of Ribbon Silk Flower designs.  Gerbera Daisy and Hibiscus are #1 and #2 respectively.  Look for the fourth and final design in Spring 2008!

SAFARI

For those who know me you know I love African design.  Previously I designed two pieces, African Sunset and African Eve,  which were derived primarily from West African basketry patterns. I took a wider view with Safari and researched Kente and Kuba patterns, and others, as well as basketry patterns. I also knew I wanted a mask as a focal point....more research.  The result was the Bobo Plank Mask you see here.  So far, so good....now for the colors.  I knew I wanted smoky colors to create depth.  The result is an unusual combination  and, I hope, successful.  The final additions were African trade to set off and give definition to the mask.  We made several visits to obtain the "right" ones.  Safari will be piloted this summer (2008) and available as a two-day workshop