tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34869021132587283992024-03-27T19:53:25.318-04:00Northern Expressions NeedleworkNicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.comBlogger202125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-29885318631432103642015-10-14T12:38:00.004-04:002015-10-14T13:34:21.602-04:00New Release for the Online Needlework Show<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's become a tradition. Every year I do some sort of unusual band sampler for the fall Online Show which starts tomorrow. The past two years have been two of my my most popular designs, the diagonal Twisted Band Sampler and Twisted Rainbow Sampler. This year I wanted something a little different, and my friend Esther gave me the most incredible idea.... so I introduce you to Esther's Waves.</div>
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It's stitched in 11 lovely autumn tones from Dinky Dyes and a multitude of Delica beads on Stephanie's Honey Amber linen and will be featured on the Dinky Dyes page in the show for shop purchases. There's also a cross stitch only version for those who prefer aida. :) <br />
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Both are now up in my Etsy shop if you prefer PDF format.<br />
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I've been working with a few dyers on different conversions to different colour schemes. Both Thread Pickerz and Fiberlicious have worked up some beautiful colourways. LOTS of yummy colour ideas!!<br />
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I've already started on sketches for next year's edition, because my hubby's OCD went off the charts when I released waves done in autumn colours. It's already got a name... Ocean waves... and as you can imagine, it'll have lots of blues, aquas, turquoises and greens.<br />
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I've started on my next model as well... the next installment in the Celtics called Celtic Flutter. It's all done in purples (very yummy purples) and beads and crystals and butterflies and dragonflies. I know I already did Celtic Wings, but this one is very different! I promise!<br />
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And with that... back to printing. ;)Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-76946371641102729192015-09-01T16:50:00.003-04:002015-09-01T16:50:35.563-04:002 New Releases!I've been under a mass of threads and fabrics this past month or so... lots of stitching and lots of picking out colours for new stuff to come!<br />
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And with all that stitching comes two new releases.... first is Positive and Negative. It's sort of based on the idea of Assisi stitching, but I really hate backstitching so I skipped that part. ;) The top and bottom of the design are opposite mirror images alternating stitching the positive space and the negative space.<br />
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The model is stitched on 36 ct Antiqued Linen from <a href="http://www.garibaldisneedleworks.com/Default.asp" target="_blank">Garibaldi's Needle Works</a> and is a perfect compliment to the rusty reds from <a href="http://www.thesilkmill.com/Default.asp" target="_blank">The Silk Mill</a>. The chart also includes conversions to AVAS, NPI and DMC.<br />
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Second is the eighth design in the Shades of series: Shades of Olive.<br />
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The model is stitched on a 40ct Regency from <a href="http://picturethisplus.com/index.htm" target="_blank">Picture This Plus</a>, which is a lovely light tan with a greenish undertone and sets off the rich olive silks from <a href="http://classiccolorworks.com/" target="_blank">Classic Colorworks</a>. The chart includes a conversion to Dinky Dyes and to DMC.<br />
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I've also been busily stitching away on Not Quite Whitework, working on Part 6 at the moment which I've just sent out to SAL members. The columns are stitching up wonderfully, even better than I'd hoped when I was dreaming this one up. :)<br />
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<br />Excuse the awful picture... I was just snapping a quick pic and realized after that I had the light coming through behind it and I'm too lazy to go take another one right now. lol I'm using Dinky Dyes silks on this one, on 36ct Raw linen.<br />
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Also working on lots of charting and picking out colours for new stuff as usual. :)<br />
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And now back to printing and packing... Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-35291127577194438722015-07-16T11:11:00.002-04:002015-07-16T11:11:21.736-04:00A New Release - Shades of GreenAs usual I've been terrible at keeping the blog up to date. It's so hard to remember everything with all the different forms of social media I just get overwhelmed and unfortunately sometimes forget!<br />
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I've been stitching off and on for the past couple of months, not as much as usual. We've had a lot of very humid and rainy weather here in Southern Ontario which has my rheumatoid arthritis in overdrive. I don't have it very badly compared to some, I'm still in the very early stages of it, but it's more a case of where I have it - in my left hand and my left shoulder - that causes grief while stitching. Some days, like today, I have a mild ache but the pain is bearable. Days like yesterday, my hand is swollen, red and almost impossible to move without extreme discomfort. Thank goodness for naproxen or I'd never get anything done!!<br />
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But it has been a while since I've posted any updates, so here's what I am and have been working on!! lol<br />
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First up, a new release, Shades of Green. This one is stitched in Fiberlicious hand dyed silks on 40ct Pablano linen from Sassy's Fabbys. Currently, Sassy's is on hiatus for a while, so I'm recommending Picture This Plus Chrysalis as an alternative colour, it's almost spot on and will look lovely.<br />
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It's the seventh in the Shades series. There are still five more to come, 4 of them are with model stitchers and will be coming soon, and one is here all kitted and ready to stitch when I get around to it (I have a couple others coming up in the rotation before I get to it).<br />
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I've also been working on Not Quite Whitework. I'm a little bit ahead of the class at this point, I'm finished up to Part 5 which comes out in August and will be picking it back up to work on it some more soon. :) Here is where I left off:<br />
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It's been a fun one so far! With so many different stitches, it's hard to get bored with it. I'm using the Dinky Dyes spring colours and it's stitching up beautifully. :)<br />
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I did sneak in another piece in between models as well, a wedding gift for my brother who got married in May. This is Promessa, by Alessandra Adelaide Needleworks. I stitched it all in Delica Beads and Swarovski crystals (with a little bit of silk and metallics for accents), on Stephanie's 36ct Midnight Tryst. It came out even better than I had imagined it in my plotting and scheming!!<br />
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And finally a new design I'm working on model stitching, called Positive and Negative. I just started this one last week, so not much to show off yet, but here is the floss toss and the first WIP picture after about 30 hours of stitching.<br />
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I'm using Silk Mill silks for this one and the colours are just gorgeous. The fabric is from a new-to-me dyer called Garibaldi's Needleworks. They're wonderful if you haven't tried them, the offer lovely single colour marbled fabrics in a wide array of colours and even do fabric swatches so you can floss toss before deciding on a colour. This colour is called Antiqued, it's a lovely neutral with a peachy undertone.<br />
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Since I haven't been able to stitch as much as I'd like, I've been doing a lot of charting as well, so there will be lots more new designs for years to come. :)<br />
Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-64527800953241990622015-03-13T18:15:00.002-04:002015-03-13T18:15:48.899-04:00Why doesn't my hand dyed fabric/floss look like the picture?If you've been stitching for any length of time and use any hand dyed products then this is something you've encountered before. The question is, why does it happen?<br />
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The answer? LOTS of reasons. It's all a matter of chemistry. <br /><br />If you've ever painted or wall-papered your house, you know that you have to buy enough up front, because if you run out and have to get more, it might not match. <br />
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Let's start with fabric. <br /><br />The first thing to remember is that not all fabrics take dye the same way, AND that not all dyes work the same way. Some dyes work best with animal fibers (silk or wool for example). Some dyes work best with plant fibers (cotton or linen) and some work best with synthetics (like rayon). If you remember anything from chemistry in high school - some things don't react with each other and some things do, and in varying degrees. All fibres used in fabric (and floss) have a different molecular structure, so using the same dye for every type of fibre just doesn't work very well.<br /><br />What happens when you dye is a chemical reaction. The dye molecules form a chemical bond with the fabric molecules. Usually this requires a catalyst - either a chemical added to the dye bath or heat - something which will cause the chemical reaction to happen. Some molecules react more strongly with each other, some react more weakly with each other. Some also form stronger bonds than others - which is why some hand dyed materials are not colourfast (but I'll touch on that more later). <br />
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Most fabric dyers work with dyes made for plant based fibers, because most fabric is made with natural plant fibers or a combination of plant and synthetic. These are chemically engineered to react with organic (carbon based) plant molecules. Because of this, linen and cotton fabrics will always give you the most vivid or darkest colours. Why? Because on a fabric like aida, which is usually 100% cotton, the dye reacts with more molecules of fiber than it will in lugana, which is only 52% cotton. Thus, aida will be darker than lugana. The same is true with linen vs. lugana. This is also why an opalescent fabric dyes lighter than a non opalescent - because the opalescent fibers are synthetic and don't react significantly with the dye. In other words your friend's linen will NOT look the same as your lugana. The same can be said for linen vs. aida - linen will usually dye darker because the molecules that make up linen react differently with the dye than the molecules that make up cotton. This is not the dyer's fault, this is simply due to the nature of atoms and molecules.<br /><br />Some dyers will make an effort to show the same dye colour on various different fabrics, so you can get a better idea of what it will look like when it arrives, some don't. It's always easiest when you know what kind of fabric the picture was taken on. So if you see a picture of a deep dark blue on Belfast linen and you order it in lugana instead, don't be surprised that it's not as deep and dark as the picture was. You also have to consider that not all cameras are created equally. Some are more accurate than others. And not all monitors and computer graphics cards are created equally. So what you see on your monitor might not look even remotely like what the same picture looks like on my monitor or what it looks like on the dyer's monitor. The light the picture is taken in or whether or not a flash was used will also make a huge difference to how the fabric looks. <br />
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Makes sense, right?<br />
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So now the question... I ordered a piece of blue linen last month and the same colour of blue linen this month and they're not the same. Why is that?<br />
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Most fabric dyers dye to order. They don't dye up large quantities to
hold in stock because, let's face it, every piece of fabric that doesn't
sell quickly is tying up raw materials, space, time and money.
Unless you're a massive company that ships out yards and yards of fabric
every day, this is just not feasible. <br />
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There are a lot of things that factor into dye lot variations. The temperature of the water, the ambient temperature of the room, relative humidity in the air, the tiniest variation in dye amounts, different batches of dye from the supplier, variations in water additives from the water treatment plant, different batches of fabric from the supplier... heck even weather conditions in the year the flax or cotton was grown will make a difference because they all affect the molecular structure of both the dye and the fabric. Dyers can make every effort to exactly replicate the recipe each time they dye a colour, but unless they are doing their dying in a hermetically sealed, climate controlled chemistry lab, these things are bound to happen, and most of them are beyond the dyer's control. <br /><br />That is not to say that there aren't dyers out there who aren't sloppy about dye lots. I'm certain there are. Some are more particular than others of course, but at least this helps to explain a little bit about why your piece of fabric doesn't look like your friend's. <br /><br />So why is it that Zweigart can make the same solid colours over and over again?<br /><br />The answer is that they can't. These same variations apply as much to a huge corporation like Zweigart as they do to a small dyer on Facebook. The main difference its that Zweigart makes fabrics in such large batches that it might be 2-3 years between dye lots in less popular colours. So the piece you bought last month and the one you bought this month are probably from the same dye lot. Even six months from now this will likely be true unless it's a very popular colour like white or antique white. When they do run a new batch of a colour there will be slight variations from the last one. It's inevitable. Ask a shop owner - they will tell you - sometimes antique white is more white than white, and sometimes flax is darker than raw. It happens on this large scale too, it's just longer time periods between dye lots so it's not as noticeable. <br /><br />These same things apply to floss, but on an even grander scale, because now you're not only talking about the variations above, which all apply to floss as well, you also have to factor in that dye patterns will inevitably change from batch to batch. Not necessarily the order of the colours in a variegated thread, but the length of the dye patterns. Even a variance of a millimetre in the placement of dye will affect the final result. <br />
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Unlike fabric dyers, most floss dyers don't dye on request but keep a running stock because it doesn't make a whole lot of sense to dye one skein at a time. A dye lot of floss can range anywhere from 20 - 1000 skeins or more. Some dye floss already cut into skeins, some dye in larger hanks and separate into skeins later. How often a dye lot changes depends solely on how much floss a dyer sells. <br /><br />And again the question comes up - then how come DMC colours don't change as much? <br /><br />Again, they do, but like Zweigart, DMC dyes colours in such large batches that it can take a very long time between dye lots so it's not as noticeable. But if you look at a skein of any colour from five years ago and compare it to a skein bought yesterday, it's pretty likely they're not identical. <br />
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Why can't I wash my hand dyed materials?<br /><br />Most dyers make every effort to make sure their colours are as colourfast as possible, but again, it all comes down to chemical reactions. Most of the time when colours run it's not because they are breaking these bonds, but because there are residual excess dye molecules that didn't bond with the fabric or floss and the washing process frees these molecules. Most dyers wash and rinse fabric and floss after dying but these can still be present and there is NOTHING you can do about this except to keep rinsing until you've rinsed away all of these residual molecules. Adding salt or vinegar to your wash will not prevent unbonded molecules from washing away, nor will they make them bond if the fabric or floss is already saturated - meaning there are no fibre molecules left for the dye to bond with. <br /><br />As I mentioned earlier, some molecules form stronger bonds, and some form weaker bonds. Generally when dying, a catalyst is required to make the chemical reaction happen. In simpler terms, to make the fibre molecules combine with the dye molecules. Sometimes this is an added chemical, sometimes it's the addition of heat. This is why most dyers will tell you to that if you are going to wash, use very cold water. Hot water is a catalyst and can break these bonds. The stronger the bond is, the more washable the finished product is. The strength of the bond will vary from colour to colour and fibre to fibre - why? Because each of these molecules is different and reacts differently. Occasionally when your colours run, it is the washing process actually breaking these bonds. In these cases, adding salt or vinegar or a chemical like Retayne, CAN help to alleviate the problem, BUT how effective each is depends on what dye and what dye process the original dyer used. For example, vinegar might help with one brand of dye but do absolutely nothing with another brand of dye.<br /><br />The best way to combat the problem is to not wash anything dyed, though this isn't a reality for some. It's always best to rinse materials well in cold water before using them to avoid disasters later. If you didn't rinse and have to wash, make your water as cold as possible and use a very mild soap. And if a disaster happens and it does run while washing, rinse, rinse, and rinse some more. Don't let the fabric dry, just keep rinsing until the water runs clear. <br />
<br />
The point of all of this? While most dyers will allow you to return or exchange pieces of fabric or skeins of floss that aren't right to try to please their customers, much of what we complain about isn't always fixable. Remember from science class - every tiny variation in an experiment will cause a change in the result. When it comes to dying there are no guarantees.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-86163292348983655512015-03-01T19:02:00.001-05:002015-03-01T19:15:39.370-05:00New 12 month Stitch Along, Not Quite Whitework!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmcgUEcsEJyNzXs0jdN4tIokKhHLxjxGylVLrxAbIOTNuOKt8Ti-sZ9swagInphFn-9vc_KrHQBYb0jxxe76szkiBR4Yf7kRgvJbWZL7DepwicCHbnB1RPkw2cL1fvLXsw1dfO4xfjY3yW/s1600/NQW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmcgUEcsEJyNzXs0jdN4tIokKhHLxjxGylVLrxAbIOTNuOKt8Ti-sZ9swagInphFn-9vc_KrHQBYb0jxxe76szkiBR4Yf7kRgvJbWZL7DepwicCHbnB1RPkw2cL1fvLXsw1dfO4xfjY3yW/s1600/NQW.jpg" height="202" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original Colours (Spring colourway)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Start Date: April 1, 2015<br />
End Date: March 31, 2016<br />
Price: $20<br />
Stitches Used : a little bit of everything - but NO Queen Stitches this time.<br />
<br />
As the name implies, Not Quite Whitework is a twist on traditional
whitework samplers. I named it Not Quite Whitework for two reasons,
first, because it's not all done white on white, but a combination of
white and pastel on a light neutral background. And second because it
doesn't include any cutwork, which most traditional whitework has. This
is mainly because while I know how to do it, my software is pretty
limited and I'm a stickler for good diagrams – I would hate to release a
substandard product and there are many designers out there who are much
better at explaining cutwork than I am. There is very little cross stitch – just the alphabet and a few small
areas of darning patterns. There are textured stitches, patterned
stitches and pulled stitches, used as examples of different ways you can
fill areas of fabric for other types of projects. As with the Learning
Sampler, diagrams will be step by step, so the project is suitable for
everyone from beginner to expert.<br />
<br />
Floss for the model is from
Dinky Dyes, and materials packs will be available from European Cross
Stitch if you choose to use the same materials I am using for the model.<br />
<br />
Fabric for the model is from Needleworker's Delight and will also be available from European Cross Stitch.<br />
<br />
Stitch Count: 393w x 249h<br />
Design Size: 19 ¾ x 12 ½ inches on 40 count fabric (20 stitches per inch)<br />
22 x 14 inches on 36 count fabric (18 stitches per inch)<br />
24 ½ x 15 ½ inches on 32 count fabric (16 stitches per inch)<br />
28 x 17 ¾ inches on 28 count fabric (14 stitches per inch)<br />
<br />
These dimensions are for the design ONLY. You need to add extra to each
side for framing/finishing. The model is being stitched on 36ct
Zweigart Raw linen, but you can use what you are most comfortable with.
It does require linen or evenweave as the design is mostly specialty
stitches which are more difficult to do on Aida. As far as colour goes,
you'll want a light neutral in a count that you can see the holes
clearly on. I'm using 36ct because I like using a single strand (except
for the satin stitches which will require 2), but if you prefer
something bigger or smaller that works too.<br />
<br />
Floss requirements: <br />
000 Natural or DMC Blanc x 7 skeins (10 skeins for 28-32ct)<br />
003 Lavender Mist or DMC 605 x 1 skein<br />
204 Flesh or DMC 967 x 1 skein<br />
153 Egg Custard or DMC 3078 x 1 skein<br />
219 Pistachio or DMC 955 x 2 skeins (3 skeins for 28-32ct)<br />
008 Mint Ice or DMC 964 x 1 skein<br />
010 Cloudy Sky or DMC 800 x 1 skein<br />
208 Hydrangea or DMC 3747 x 1 skein<br />
005 Mulberry Ice or DMC 153 x 1 skein<br />
<br />
This is by no means a perfect conversion. The colours are close, but
the DMC is darker overall and solid instead of overdyed. The Dinky Dyes
are much softer colours. Usage will be the same for either Dinky Dyes or
DMC as the skeins are the same size. Usage on 36-40ct assumes 1 strand
for cross stitch and specialty stitches (except satin stitches). On
28-32ct it assumes 2 strands for cross stitch and satin stitches and one
strand for the rest of the specialty stitches.<br />
<br />
Of course you
don't need to follow the colours I'm using – they are just a suggestion,
you are free to use whatever your little heart desires! This would look
very cool done with a white or cream overdye and replacing all of the
colours with a variegated rainbow pastel colour! The possibilities are
endless. Here are a few other ideas:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz8rh5ElC_ekpEcbwHQTvQdfQvudaX91uTUBcFkqDHiUhqZZrZpC6dkyneDlvztYCjl5xzBx9Za4ZtDPVUzdAdVfsxq5KAe8CKF5bKjmul-5haTpcBS1ubn1JsrtRB58H-PODPaw9AdpsO/s1600/Autumn+Colours.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz8rh5ElC_ekpEcbwHQTvQdfQvudaX91uTUBcFkqDHiUhqZZrZpC6dkyneDlvztYCjl5xzBx9Za4ZtDPVUzdAdVfsxq5KAe8CKF5bKjmul-5haTpcBS1ubn1JsrtRB58H-PODPaw9AdpsO/s1600/Autumn+Colours.jpg" height="202" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Autumn Colourway</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5siglpZrWXdQIBsM30jhZBpfqLONjvMdCPOn47Tue4etks5f78lFOAjhd9hVJ3gvkLZvlwW0OTb_sf747zZL3Vk8OS4fS97UtNABuUEptzcEbJMZuHzi8xM5h-IHxmA2HDKPaVen-69rl/s1600/Summer+Colours.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5siglpZrWXdQIBsM30jhZBpfqLONjvMdCPOn47Tue4etks5f78lFOAjhd9hVJ3gvkLZvlwW0OTb_sf747zZL3Vk8OS4fS97UtNABuUEptzcEbJMZuHzi8xM5h-IHxmA2HDKPaVen-69rl/s1600/Summer+Colours.jpg" height="202" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer Colourway</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrRd-Y9EVt8pfgpIONx8QP2Tvg02hC6Ill_1kdMHSLAPe4iM0JU9GeUHlda0iv4z22Z0N-pgHSloUzNV7C7vxuTWTIDbefy7RDMeyj3VPQLwI4d62Dz3qZ41oi2Y8GTjD-_s8ecuqz9NR/s1600/Winter+Colours.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrRd-Y9EVt8pfgpIONx8QP2Tvg02hC6Ill_1kdMHSLAPe4iM0JU9GeUHlda0iv4z22Z0N-pgHSloUzNV7C7vxuTWTIDbefy7RDMeyj3VPQLwI4d62Dz3qZ41oi2Y8GTjD-_s8ecuqz9NR/s1600/Winter+Colours.jpg" height="202" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter Colourway</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The stitch-along is broken down into 12 parts. I will include the full
border layout with Part 1, so you can choose to work ahead and stitch
the borders first, or stitch them bit by bit as the parts are released. I
will be doing the diagrams for each stitch in step by step pieces, so
if these are new to you, you should have no trouble following along.
Parts will be sent out on the 1st of each month via email. <br />
Materials packs will be available in 1-2 weeks - Dinky Dyes is away at
Nasvhille Market and will need a few days to recover before they can put
them together for ECS.<br />
<br />
<br />
If you would like to sign up for this, you can email
me at northernexpressionsneedlework@gmail.com. :)<br />
<br />
I'm working on part 2 at the moment, and I'm hoping to get a few parts stitched up ahead of the start date. :) I'll update from time to time with my model WIP pictures!<br />
<br />
Side note - blogger is really beginning to drive me crazy - constantly inserting/removing line breaks and adding huge gaps. It's very annoying. Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-53782438864492737382015-02-24T15:54:00.000-05:002015-02-24T15:54:01.874-05:00Two new releases for Nashville MarketI wish I could go to Nasvhille market personally, but my models are making the trek there currently and will be on display in the Dinky Dyes Suite in room #420! <br /><br />
One is a familiar one, The Learning Sampler. Now that the SAL is over, the design is being re-released in print to shops and through PDF on my Etsy shop. With over 40 pages and over 80 diagrams it's a great way for beginners to get a feel for different types of stitches.<br />
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<br />
The design was model stitched with silks from The Silk Mill, but can be done in any colour. I've uploaded a couple of conversion lists for the design to different colour schemes and different brands of floss.<br /><br />Solid colour coversions: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bw7hbQqMHyjGRXhfZDdkem00bXc/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bw7hbQqMHyjGRXhfZDdkem00bXc/view?usp=sharing</a><br />
<br />
Multicolour conversions: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bw7hbQqMHyjGSFRqd1dTNmM2VVE/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bw7hbQqMHyjGSFRqd1dTNmM2VVE/view?usp=sharing </a><br />
<br />
The second is a brand new design, the next in the Shades series, Shades of Rose. The model is stitched in 3 colours of Dinky Dyes silk floss on 40ct Elizabeth linen from Hand Dyed Fabrics by Stephanie. This one is all cross stitch so it can of course be stitched on any type or count of fabric. :)<br />
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<br />
This one was a last minute addition, had to do a lot of shuffling around of the schedule and give up sleep for the past few weeks to get it all done in time, but I'm pleased that I did! It turned out really well, the picture just doesn't do the gorgeous pinks justice. :) <br />
<br />
These will both be available from Hoffman after the Nashville show - I didn't get everything done in time to ship the charts to them before the show started so they will be a week or two before they make it to Hoffman, but are available from Dinky Dyes now, or if you prefer PDF, they're up in my Etsy shop. :)<br />
<br />
Happy stitching! :) <br />
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Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-21602234531173948752015-01-20T14:55:00.002-05:002015-01-20T15:21:51.190-05:00A little freebie for Valentine's DayThis is a little quickie I stitched up last night - it's one of the original ideas from Celtic Valentine that didn't get used but it was too pretty NOT to do something with it. :)<br />
<br />
It's the perfect size for a biscornu, a pincushion, a needleminder, or a hand made Valentine's card.<br />
<br />
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<br />
In the interest of using up stash, I used a leftover piece of 32ct antique white fabric and a limited edition skein of Hand Dyed Fibers I bought back in 2008. The beads were leftover from a Mirabilia. :)<br />
<br />
<br />
You can download the chart here: <span class="userContent"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bw7hbQqMHyjGeW45ckhCWTVxV28/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank">https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bw7hbQqMHyjGeW45ckhCWTVxV28/view?usp=sharing</a></span><br />
<br />
Happy Stitching!Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-21434508756279630142015-01-05T20:40:00.000-05:002015-01-05T20:43:23.747-05:00Lots of news...It's been a while since my last post, so I have lots to report. :)<br />
<br />
It's been a while since I had a new release, that's because October arrived and I suddenly realized I had a mountain of Christmas presents to get stitched and needed to finish them all! I didn't get pictures of all of them, but here are the two I did get. First is my nephew Easton's stocking:<br />
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I already showed it off I think, but I finally got it put together - this picture is minus the trim, forgot to take pictures of that. My aunt Pam helped me put this together, I am a disaster with a sewing machine. lol<br />
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<br />
And the back of it - picked a green marbled fabric - wanted to stay pretty neutral because the front it so colourful! We also lined it so it can actually be used without catching the stitching. :)<br />
<br />
And mom's Christmas present, which is also a model, Hootie. He's stitched on 40ct Heavenly Skies from Sassy's Fabbys with silks from The Silk Mill.<br />
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He came out beatifully. He's going in for framing hopefully this week. Thinking plain black laquered frame - he's very bright (brighter than the picture even) so I don't want to detract from that, I think black will make him pop even more. :)<br />
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Then some ornaments which I forgot to take pictures of.<br />
<br />
And then it was back to work on models. I managed to finish stitching the rest of the birthstones before the end of the year, but only just finished all the instructions and chartpacks today so they're only now ready to print and ship.<br />
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Here's Sapphire:<br />
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Opal:<br />
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Topaz (which was my personal favourite to stitch!):<br />
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And finally Turquoise:<br />
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As with the previous birthstones, each one is stitched in a single colour of silk with lots of beads and crystals to simulate gemstones. <br />
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And since several people have asked, yes, there is now a pack for all 12 available. Because this is such a huge chartpack (164 pages), it's available only as a PDF at 40% off the price of all 12 individually. I've also included a large 30 page chart of all 12 stitched together for anyone brave enough to attempt it! <br />
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So that catches me up on new releases!! After all that model stitching, I needed a day off, so I took one and finished up Mirabilia's Stargazer:<br />
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I stitched her on a custom dyed piece of 40ct linen from Sassy's Fabbys using my own colour conversion. Yes, they can be done on 40ct! This is actually my 4th Mira/L&L finish on 40ct fabric now and yes, I do include the beads, but I change them all to size 15/0. ;)<br />
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And that brings me to 2015. I've made a few resolutions. First, I need to starting taking time off for me. 7 days a week 12-18 hours a day is too much. I don't want to ALWAYS be model stitching - I have so many charts started or purchased that I'd like to stitch so I am officially taking weekends off from now on to work on stuff just for me. Second, I WILL finish my Silk Mill collection off this year. Yeah, I know, not a difficult one to follow, but until I finish it, I'm going to try not to be tempted by other stuff until I do. lol And finally, I WILL get the website up and running. Hubby has been working on it as he has time, but I really want to get it finished. I have over 40 designs available now and apart from social media, nowhere to showcase it all! So that's on the agenda. <br />
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So what am I working on now? Well I'm finishing up The Learning Sampler. I'm a bit behind the group since, I'm only on part 12 at the moment, but I have to finish it this month as I'm re-releasing it in print for Nashville (so I need to get motoring on it). Thankfully all the instructions and diagrams are written already so it's just the stitching. ;)<br />
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And I'm working on the new SAL, Not Quite Whitework. I'd like to at least get the bulk of it stitched before we start! It'll like start in April or May, not sure just yet, but will announce all the details long before then. :) Here's a sneak peek at it and the colours it's being stitched in. It's very little cross stitch, just the alphabet. There are two reasons I named it "not quite" whitework, first because it's not all in white, but in white and pastel colours. And second because traditionally whitework includes cutwork, this one does not. I stuck to pulled and textured stitches for it, partly because I know cutwork terrifies people and partly because I just do not know how to do diagrams for it properly. :)<br />
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I think that's about all for now... lots more to come this year, it will be another very busy year! And with that I'm off to stitch. :)Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-46862760037273653572014-11-09T15:32:00.001-05:002014-11-09T15:32:13.823-05:00A celebration saleHi all! I've been quiet again, because I've been working on Christmas stitching and can't share a whole lot of pictures as they're surprises! lol<br />
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However, as of this morning I have reached 1000 likes on my Facebook page. I'm so excited!! I decided that this is definitely worthy of celebration, so I'm having a sale in my Etsy shop through the end of November. The sale code is CELEBRATE25 and will give you 25% off on any purchases. <br /><br />https://www.etsy.com/shop/NorthernExpressions1<br />
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If you're not an Etsy user or would prefer printed charts, you can also contact me via email. :) Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-29161854863251541192014-09-20T00:05:00.000-04:002014-09-20T00:12:18.060-04:00A New Release, some news and a WIPI feel like it's been ages since I updated but it's only been six weeks. I have so much going on these day that it's hard to keep up! On one hand, time seems to fly by, my little newborn nephew is almost 2 months old already. On the other I look back on things that happened a month ago and think... wow, it's only been a month?<br />
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I have a new release this week, it's the fifth in the Shades series, Shades of Orange.<br />
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It's stitched on 40ct Honey Nut Linen from Sassy's Fabbys, and it uses 2 different colours of Classic Colorworks Silk floss (formerly Crescent Colours Belle Soie). The model was stitched by Nicola Maltby and it came out beautifully if I do say so myself, though I suppose I'm just a little biased. I'm not an orange person, but this may just win me over! It's in transit to Hoffman and has been sent off to Dinky Dyes as well for shop purchases. I've also added it to the Etsy shop for pdf purchase.<br />
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I haven't been stitching a whole lot myself. After finishing up Twisted Rainbow, I did up a Halloween Freebie for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/636315409809170/" target="_blank">Pumpkin Seed Stitchers Facebook Group</a>. I love Halloween, but I'm not really a Halloween stitcher. I admire all the pieces, they're really pretty and wonderful, but I just never really got into it. BUT, I had a lot of fun with this little piece.<br />
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It's stitched on 32ct PTP Fresco (which is a little more pinkish than it shows in the picture), using Carrie's Creations Silks and Mill Hill Petite Seed Beads. I sent it along to my distributors as well to send out to shops with orders. The Facebook group is lots of fun, every month of the year there is a new Halloween freebie (this month was my month!). I will make it available to everyone at a later date, but for this month it's just for group members - please feel free to join us! There is also a group called Candy Cane Stitchers, and as you can imagine, each month is a different Christmas Freebie. I've got a design coming in that group as well. <br />
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After I finished that up, I started on a stocking for my new nephew, Easton, and worked on it for about three weeks. Then the cooler damp weather arrived and my arthritis kicked into overdrive, so I haven't picked up a needle much at all. I've been trying to get September's birthstone done, and I feel terrible that I haven't yet, but I just can't hold a needle. It's actually a challenge trying to type some days. :( It is improving though, so hopefully I'll be back to my normally lightning fast self soon. :)<br />
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Speaking of the stocking, here it is so far - not quite finished, but after I finish the next two birthstones I'll get it done. I can't put it off too long as I have to send it away to have it sewn together - I'm just not a seamstress. lol<br />
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Apparently I forgot to take pictures before I put it away, as I'm 2/3 through the bottom half now too, but oh well. lol I'll show it off when it's done. <br />
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This stocking has taught me several things. One, never, ever, ever again will I use aida. I hate it. I mean I replaced the cardboard like cheap fabric that came with the kit with slightly less cardboard like DMC aida, but it's not much of an improvement. I figured it was fully covered so why bother with nicer fabric. It's really terrible, that's why I should have bothered. No offense to the aida stitchers out there, it's totally me, I can't stand the stuff. I should have thought ahead and ordered some white lugana or jobelan with it, but I didn't and I'm regretting it. Two, never, ever, ever will I do another Dimensions kit. ICKY!!! Not only did I throw away the fabric, but the floss as well - at least most of the colours. There were a few I couldn't match up to DMC. It's horrible! 5 bloody strands? I'd rather do two strands and full cross stitches. If I'd been thinking at all, I would have. I did replace the a couple of the "unblended" reds, the green in the lettering and the white in the candy canes with Petite Silk Lame, and the whites in Santa's beard and coat with Wisper to give it a little more pizazz. Third, cotton floss and I do not mix. Even DMC. Perhaps it's the combination of cotton and aida, as I use DMC on linen occasionally and it doesn't seem to bother me nearly as much. If you've used silk and linen for any length of time you notice it glides through the fabric effortlessly - and quietly. Cotton floss and aida makes this grating sound that just irritates me. And because I'm using so many strands in the needle in places, I have to use a larger #24 needle and force it through the holes. Evenweave just has so much more give, the needle slides through the hole much more easily. With this I have to yank on it like crazy - it's possible that this has contributed to the arthritis issues with my hands as well. Call me an elitist. I know I am. I'm spoiled by years of silk and linen and once you're hooked it's hard to go back. All that said, it does look nice and will be a really cute stocking when it's done. <br />
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Since I haven't been stitching much the past couple of weeks, I've been working on charting some more designs. Quite a few are freebies that I'm doing for charity. I was approached by a stitcher asking about a possible Awareness style design for her son's epilepsy and autism. I found these absolutely adorable little awareness butterflies by artist Donnee Spencer, and she gave me permission to chart them, so I am. I had initially thought to make them small but they have these lovely rounded flourishes that just don't work well in small size, and I tried to round them out with fractionals and backstitch but I was not happy at all with the result. So I stuck with all cross stitch and a bigger size and I'm much happier with them. I kept them simple with only a couple of colours each, they could be stitched on any count of fabric and they could even work with variegated flosses if you so choose. There are quite a few for different diseases, and I will probably add a few of my own for other diseases Donnee didn't have made up already. Keep an eye out here or on my Facebook page, as I will be making them available soon, I'm just working on getting the balance of them charted. :)<br />
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Next week, if/when I get some time, I really need to update the WIP page and the finishes page here on the blog - I've been sent some absolutely wonderful pictures by stitchers and I have been terrible about trying to keep up with it. <br />
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Also I would love some input from everyone. The Learning Sampler is soon coming to an end. We're working on part 14 at the moment, though everyone is at different points in their stitching, and the last part will be sent out in January. It has gone really well, and I've had several people ask if I'll be doing another stitch along when it finishes. I will be asking around before I decide for sure, but I have two different designs, Not Quite Whitework (which I've already started stitching) and Positive and Negative, which have layouts that would break down into parts easily. The first is predominantly specialty stitches - a lot of pulled work and textures, and the second is predominantly cross stitch and assisi stitching (which is still just cross stitch) and a couple of specialty stitches. I'm debating whether I'll make either or both into stitch along pieces and release them in their entirety after the SAL ends. Tentatively thinking that if I do, I will start Not Quite Whitework in March or April (giving me some time to get it stitched up ahead of time) and Positive and Negative in the late summer sometime. I'd love to hear your thoughts! If I don't do them as stitch alongs, I will of course release them in shops as per usual. <br />
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And one last order of business... I'm finally getting around to having a website set up. My hubby is working on one for his boss right now, but will be starting mine when he finishes that. I will likely be moving my Etsy shop to a built in cart system, and this blog over to the website when it gets finished. I'll keep everyone updated on that as it progresses. <br />
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I had been feeling like I haven't accomplished much of anything of late, but as I type this I realize I've been just as busy as always, just with things other than model stitching!!<br />
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Have a great weekend everyone!!Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-34760210298375237882014-09-03T15:29:00.003-04:002014-09-03T15:29:39.238-04:00Another correction to Twisted RainbowSigh. I really do proofread and have multiple people proofread for me as well, but sometimes things fall through the cracks. <br /><br />On the key for colour #17, it shows a filled star as the symbol, on the chart it is two dots side by side. For colour #18, it shows two dots side by side, on the chart it is a 2. <br /><br />They have been corrected and the correct version is now in the Etsy shop and with my distributors so it will be correct in future orders, and only in the specialty stitch version - the cross stitch only one is correct. <br /><br />I feel completely awful about this and I'll make sure I check even more in future. Thank you to Barb who notified me. Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-21302544910070521292014-08-08T12:03:00.001-04:002014-08-08T12:03:27.650-04:00A correction to Twisted Rainbow SamplerI'm usually really careful with making sure everything gets proofread several times before release and this one was no exception, but occasionally things will get missed. <br /><br />In the materials list for both the specialty stitch and cross stitch versions of Twisted Rainbow Sampler, there is a mistake in the DMC conversion. <br /><br />Where it reads DMC 3811, it should be 3812. Sadly the colours aren't very similar either so it will be pretty noticeable if you're going to use the DMC. <br /><br />This will only affect those who purchased before today, and possibly the first shipment to Hoffman. I have sent them the correction to include with orders though so they should be okay. Any orders placed through Dinky Dyes are already corrected.<br /><br />Here's a link to the corrected materials list page:<br />
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<span class="userContent"><br /> <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bw7hbQqMHyjGa29pUW9KZ1p2Rjg/edit?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank">https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bw7hbQqMHyjGa29pUW9KZ1p2Rjg/edit?usp=sharing</a></span><br />
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<span class="userContent">I really hate it when this happens! I'm so sorry!! </span>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-19498400191071341872014-08-04T12:37:00.002-04:002014-08-04T12:37:42.211-04:00And one more new release!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />The much anticipated Twisted Rainbow Sampler is finished!! It really came out beautifully, the colours are just fantastic. Being the crazy person I am, I stitched it on black linen, but it really does show off these colours beautifully. :) The threads I used are from <a href="http://www.threadpickerz.co.uk/ourshop/prod_3261753-rainbow-pack.html">Thread Pickerz</a> and they are just lovely. The floss pack contains all 18 colours, and is more than enough to complete the design. If the bright colours are a little too much for you, Eileen also does a gorgeous pastel pack - same colours in very a pale pastels - which would be gorgeous too! The fabric I used is 32ct Onyx from Weeks Dye works - it comes in a huge range of different counts - 30, 32, 35, 36 and 40, so there's a count for anyone's liking! Alternatively, you can get black in standard Belfast linen or Lugana, I went with the hand dyed as I used a hand dyed for Twisted Band Sampler and wanted the sizes to match up. :)<br />
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And for those of you who don't like specialty stitches or can't see to stitch on linen....<br />
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....there's also a cross stitch only version. As of today, both this and the Twisted Band Sampler cross stitch version will both be available to wholesale customers from Dinky Dyes. :) <br /><br />Both are up in my Etsy shop now for customers who prefer PDF. :) <br /><br />You'd think I have some time to relax, but alas, I have a freebie to get stitched up this week and some new designs to chart, and two more birthstones to finish by month end, and a whole bunch of new butterflies to chart.... It never stops but it's great to be busy. :)<br /><br />BUT... I am taking a day off this week to go visit my sweet little nephew! :D<br /></div>
Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-90021143097546576222014-08-01T12:27:00.001-04:002014-08-01T12:27:16.987-04:00New design releaseHello all! It's been a very busy month here at Northern Expressions. :) I'm almost finished Twisted Rainbow - if I get my butt in gear I may finish the stitching today and get the instructions written over the weekend. :)<br />
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I've had a very exciting week! My model stitcher, Ellen, sent me a message late last week that she had finished Shades of Blue and it was coming home. Now I love blue, and of course I love the design, I did design it after all, but oh my, I was not prepared for how beautifully it turned out. I had a lot of help picking the colours from Dinky Dyes (when it was still Jo at the helm), and her selections could not have been more perfect. It turned out better than I could ever have hoped. The colours are so soothing and tranquil and lovely. <br />
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<br />It uses three different Dinky Dyes blues, and it's done on 40ct Nantucket Sky from Hand Dyed Fabrics by Stephanie. It's all cross stitch, so you could do it on any type or count of fabric you like. :) <br />
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I also had a wonderful surprise this week... I'm an auntie!! My nephew, Easton Sparrow Bonnett was born on Monday, July 28. And yes, he IS named after Jack Sparrow. I love it. :D He's so perfect and precious and I love him like crazy already. :) <br />
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And now back to work.... I should get lots done today... Facebook is down! lolNicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-81297837020561888422014-07-11T12:34:00.003-04:002014-07-11T12:34:14.335-04:00Three new releases!It's been a busy couple of weeks. I was on hiatus for a month or so when my stitching mojo just disappeared - which strangely coincided with the arrival of the nice weather finally. Hmmm... suspicious, no?<br />
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The next two birthstones, July's Ruby and August's Peridot are now available and on their way to Hoffman and Dinky Dyes. Both are stitched on 32ct Raw Belfast Linen and use Soie D'Alger, Delica Beads and Swarovski Crystals, but include a DMC conversion and alternate bead suggestions. I can't believe I'm up to August already, it seems like I just started these!!<br />
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Also new this week and on its way to Hoffman and Dinky Dyes is Shades of Red. The model was stitched by the talented Darla Bohn. :) This one uses Classic Colorworks Silks (formerly Crescent Colours Belle Soie) in two colours and is stitched on 40ct Raffia Cream from Sassy's. I've included a conversion to Dinky Dyes (though the original colours are a bit darker) and a DMC which is fairly close. <br />
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<br />I'm currently working on the model for Twisted Rainbow, a companion piece to Twisted Band Sampler, which will make it's debut at the St. Charles Needlework Market in August. It's been a blast to stitch so far, the colours are just so pretty! Since it uses the same number of colours as the original it could be done in the same colours, I just fell in love with this threadpack from Thread Pickerz so I'm using it. :) I'm also working on charting it in cross stitch only, both will release at the same time, though the cross stitch version will only be available directly from me. As I've said before, it gets too confusing to try to release multiple versions of designs to distributors and shops. <br /><br />I'm also working on stitching a new large specialty stitch sampler called Not Quite Whitework, which should be coming out in September. It's been a joy to stitch so far, but since I KNOW I can't get them both done in time for St. Charles I had to make a call so this one will follow shortly after. <br /><br />Also to come over the next year are 9 more Shades of designs - 12 in all, the final four birthstones, and lots more I'm plotting out. ;) It's been a great year so far and I hope to keep up that momentum. <br /><br />Have a great weekend everyone! I'll be stitching up a storm. :)<br />
Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-7733313425198016912014-05-27T12:38:00.000-04:002014-05-27T12:38:33.508-04:00Birthday SaleIt's been a quieter month here at Northern Expressions. I've been working a little on model stitching, but mostly I've been tackling my spring cleaning and enjoying the fresh air (when it's not raining). I decided that I was working FAR too much and needed to take a time out for a week or two. 18 hours a day, 7 days a week is too much. Unfortunately it puts me a couple weeks behind, but I was stressing too much about it and I really needed to step back for a few days.<br />
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July's Birthstone is underway and will be coming in June, along with August's Peridot. :)<br />
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Since it's my birthday this week, I decided to have a sale in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/NorthernExpressions1?ref=si_shop">Etsy Shop</a> until the end of May. All charts are 20% off, using the coupon code BIRTHDAY20.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-86404667242546334992014-04-26T16:46:00.004-04:002014-04-26T17:20:00.496-04:00New Release: Pearl<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yes, ANOTHER new release - I've been a busy girl this month. :)<br />
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This is June's Birthstone, Pearl. It's stitched using Soie D'Alger (with a DMC conversion included), Swarovski Crystal Pearls and Delica beads (conversions included). I love how this one stitched up, there are a lot of eyelets, and while they're not hard, they can be a bit tedious. They really add a great texture though, and the little pearls are so elegant looking - I think I might like them better than the bicones!<br />
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Also... with all the models I've got stacked up to stitch for release over the next year (about 20) and all the stuff I've already got started in Patternmaker (32!!) I've started designing something else new. Depending on how quickly I get it charted, I may sneak this one in this year. It's a companion piece to Twisted Band Sampler. Not sure what I'll be calling it, but I was inspired when I saw Eileen's colour selection for her Twisted Band in her own silk threads.<br />
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Seriously, how could I resist? The thread pack is available from Eileen, though I don't yet see it on her website, <a href="http://www.threadpickerz.co.uk/ourshop/cat_728858-Thread-Pickerz-Silkz.html">Thread Pickerz Silkz</a>, you can contact her through the site. :) And of course seeing the photo on black - well you guessed it, I'll be designing the new one for black fabric (though it will look gorgeous one white as well).<br />
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And finally, Marjan has already finished her Learning Sampler! She's been working ahead of the rest of the group, and sent me the pictures this morning.<br />
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She stitched this on 40ct linen, using the recommended Silk Mill colours (the same ones I'm using for mine). It turned out beautifully. I'm not even finished my own yet, so this is the first I've seen it completed!!<br />
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It's been a busy week, printing, packing and shipping last week's new releases, finishing up Pearl and getting colours sorted out for a couple more new designs that will be coming later this year. I've got a big package coming from Dinky Dyes for several of them, and I just know I will want to start ALL of them right away. Still on the hunt for a couple of colours of fabric, one for Shades of Plum and one for Shades of Purple. I had both already but after some dye lot issues with floss, I had to change the floss colours and now they don't match the fabrics anymore. ARGH! Hopefully get that sorted next week. I know I can't start them all right now, but I do like to have the materials ready to go for several - as you've probably read on here before I've had issues before with missing or nearly missing release dates because I was waiting on materials - so now I make sure I have them months ahead of time!! What's funny is that I love the original purple and plum fabrics so much I've started designing stuff to use them for because they're just too pretty NOT to use. :)<br />
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And now that I'm all caught up on work stuff for the day, I think I may go stitch for a while. I just started Shades of Rose last night and I'm loving it already - the colours are just yummy! The floss is obviously Dinky Dyes, the fabric is from Hand Dyed Fabrics by Stephanie called Elizabeth and it's a lovely pale pink!<br />
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One last note today - one of the main reasons I
haven't been keeping my blog updated regularly is because it's just not getting any
traffic anymore. The only comments I've had in months are the hundreds
of spam comments I have to delete every day. I'm debating whether to
discontinue it and just continue these updates on Facebook alone. I'm
hoping to have time to get my own website set up over the summer, so I
may hang onto it until then. Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-3753065738975631422014-04-15T13:47:00.000-04:002014-04-15T13:47:00.878-04:00New Releases for the Online Needlework Show (and one I forgot to post last month)I've been terrible of late trying to keep up with blogging, Facebooking, emailing and everything else internet related. Sometimes you just get overwhelmed with it all!<br />
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First, the newest birthstone design, May's Emerald:<br />
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I especially love this one, but I'm biased - it's my own birthstone so I suppose I'm allowed to be! As with all of the birthstone designs, this one is 100x100 and uses a single colour of Soie D'Alger (DMC conversion provided), Swarovski Crystal bicones and Delica Beads (several bead conversions included). It's worked in lots of different stitches to give lots of different textures. :)<br />
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And just in time for the <a href="http://www.needleworkshow.com/">Online Needlework Show</a> (April 17-22) are two new designs, Shades of Wine and Spanish Diamonds.<br />
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Shades of Wine, the second in the Shades series is stitched in 3 colours of Dinky Dyes silk floss. I stitched mine on 40ct Alabaster from Sassy's Fabbys, but because it's all cross stitch, you could stitch it on any count you're comfortable with. :) I'm so pleased I was able to finish this one in time, I started it back in February when I was testing out the colours, but only stitched a little and didn't pick it back up until the end of March. I think in all I finished it in 2 weeks. I don't know if I'm happier that I got it done in time or happier that I can sleep again! <br />
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Spanish Diamonds is very little cross stitch, instead it uses eyelets, rhodes, four-sided, ray, satin and various other stitches to make up the intricate diamond patterns. It's stitched in 5 shades of Silk Mill floss, and I used 36ct Aerial Linen from Picture This Plus. You can of course use any count, but linen or evenweave are recommended because of the stitches used. This 31 page chartpack includes diagrams for all sizes and shapes of stitches used. This one stitches up surprisingly quickly!<br />
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These will both be available to shops on the Dinky Dyes page of the show. <br />
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Lots of other stuff going on this month here at Northern Expressions. I'm working on the next birthstone, June's Pearl, which will be coming out later this month. Then I need to get to work on the next few bands of The Learning Sampler to stay ahead of the group - though Marjan is almost finished hers and already working on Part 17!! <br />
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In May I will be getting in some much needed charting done, I've got a bunch of ideas for next year that I really need to get to work on - some new Celtics, some Vierlande inspired designs, some butterfly and dragonfly designs and hopefully a home and garden sampler. I'll also be model stitching my heart out on a new large sampler design that I'm so excited about! I finalized the colours on it yesterday with Kathy at Dinky Dyes and I'm really eager to get stitching it now! It's called Not Quite Whitework, and is done with lots of pulled work and filling stitches, and uses an array of white and almost white pastels. I'll also be working on the next Shades design - when I decide which one I want to stitch next (they're all designed and kitted already which makes it even harder!!)<br />
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I also need to get stitching on a Christmas stocking for my new nephew who is due to arrive in August! I'm FINALLY going to be an auntie! I'm so happy! This will be the first time in a decade or more that I've done a Dimensions kit. Not sure if I'm excited or dreading it. Not a fan of Dimensions kits, but my brother's fiance picked it out and it IS a really nice one.<br />
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And finally, I know many of you read a vent on my Facebook page a couple of weeks ago as yet another of my designs had been infringed. I have to say, I was really touched by the messages I received from everyone - it IS nice to know that all the hard work is appreciated. It's hard to describe the feeling when I come across one of my designs on these sites. Anger, obviously, and disappointment, but there is also this feeling of violation that is so hard to put into words. My immediate reaction is always why do I bother, but the answer to that is simple. I bother because I love what I do, and as long as hubby and I can keep making ends meet each month, I'll keep doing it. <br />
Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-38249036012322685742014-02-20T10:24:00.002-05:002014-02-20T10:24:35.786-05:00New Release: Diamond<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA3XW4Z_FjCmraDh8Zk4O6ABQ3HkUyuGyKaW_eVzGyUfcF9sP7yJrN-CloQtSokU_4Xt143PgDIBj_fKtGopJl2zt9X39U25qjZat1axwL3NST9jMOO2r2I1vUz_3FKA8iM6jAv6lrSWTw/s1600/Diamond+Cover+sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA3XW4Z_FjCmraDh8Zk4O6ABQ3HkUyuGyKaW_eVzGyUfcF9sP7yJrN-CloQtSokU_4Xt143PgDIBj_fKtGopJl2zt9X39U25qjZat1axwL3NST9jMOO2r2I1vUz_3FKA8iM6jAv6lrSWTw/s1600/Diamond+Cover+sm.jpg" height="320" width="297" /></a></div>
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The sparkling Diamond is April's birthstone and the fourth in the Birthstone Series. It is stitched on 32ct Raw Belfast Linen and uses Soie D'Alger silk floss, Delica Beads and Swarovski crystals. Very hard to capture how sparkly this one is!! I can't wait to get started on the next one for May, since it's my very own birthstone, Emerald. <br />
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I've had a couple of stitchers send me pictures of their finishes that I'd like to share as well. First, Amanda sent me her Twisted Band Sampler, stitched in the AVAS silks:<br />
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And Richard sent me his finish of Forget Me Not, stitched with the Gloriana threads on aida:<br />
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I think today will be a good day to stay in and stitch/design - it's supposed to be pretty yucky - rain, snow and freezing rain. It's been a pretty nasty winter, I'm really looking forward to spring!<br />
Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-80860478585696926642014-01-30T15:53:00.001-05:002014-01-30T15:53:57.403-05:00A new release and a not so new releaseI'll start with the new first. :) This is Shades of Gold, the first in a series of twelve shaded designs featuring bands and motifs shaped in to geometric patterns. Each design uses 2-3 shades of the same colour and is stitched on a coordinating fabric. Shades of Gold is stitched with Gloriana Florimell on 40ct French Vanilla linen from Sassy's Fabbys. The series started out as just this one design, but while sketching the layout for it last summer I came up with ideas for several other layouts, then while picking out colour schemes, found several other colours I wanted to use so had to come up with more layouts... and on it went. ;) I hope to be able to release these one every 2-3 months. The retail price for each one will be $16.<br />
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The not so new...Well some of the ladies on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/396627150410755/609151189158349/?notif_t=like" target="_blank">Facebook </a>are doing a Stitch-A-Long of Twisted Band Sampler starting in June, but some of the people interested were hesitant about the specialty stitches in it. They approached me a couple of weeks ago and asked if I would be interested in designing a cross stitch only version of it for their SAL members. So I have. :) I tried to stay as faithful as possible to the original design and here's what I came up with:<br />
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The cross stitch only version is available only as a PDF - it's too hard to juggle two different versions in print - and is up in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/NorthernExpressions1?ref=si_shop" target="_blank">Etsy </a>shop now - or you can email me to order. The price on it is $12 as it's significantly less pages of instruction than the original design. <br />
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I'm sending out part 7 of The Learning Sampler in a moment, if you don't receive yours, please let me know!Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-49954691263459023542014-01-28T12:59:00.001-05:002014-01-28T12:59:41.779-05:00The Learning Sampler - WIP picturesHere are some updated pictures from The Learning Sampler SAL. :) We are currently up to part 6, part 7 will be sent out this weekend, though a couple people have jumped ahead.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3q3626P8m3qKsYjlACq66qafRqAD12OzN2Cq1Hv7IsCLfPX4ynOL_G00X16bph-n7Dz3HlobRPnNLAFJqG1uU3f2of4TQaWUu1-z2xbyxXyqIhii7b6Z7hyx1eyBlGEl9qKqLTLrjE-m6/s1600/Cornelia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3q3626P8m3qKsYjlACq66qafRqAD12OzN2Cq1Hv7IsCLfPX4ynOL_G00X16bph-n7Dz3HlobRPnNLAFJqG1uU3f2of4TQaWUu1-z2xbyxXyqIhii7b6Z7hyx1eyBlGEl9qKqLTLrjE-m6/s1600/Cornelia.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cornelia's WIP up to part 9</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkxsJPcyokcELvYoU1Q0S9fs4JuMKDobAnlmcj_WkMU8BkMEMZeETiC4egjpvkVuvZ5eis_no2UVRdTWZbK6ULl4MEzUbUCnBxaw4KEERsGcImgjUrAH4b0IIoh1Vtnz1EzJg-_AFHCNC/s1600/Jeanne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkxsJPcyokcELvYoU1Q0S9fs4JuMKDobAnlmcj_WkMU8BkMEMZeETiC4egjpvkVuvZ5eis_no2UVRdTWZbK6ULl4MEzUbUCnBxaw4KEERsGcImgjUrAH4b0IIoh1Vtnz1EzJg-_AFHCNC/s1600/Jeanne.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jeanne's WIP up to part 6</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioPLPsKmxiLENxIgGlLekKqXKLqV74Uds9Y-AQ4yoru_LmRwFBfx9p-7H-FUK9lQJV1y6ieCZUCgDeBa4a4BaZ8xIKEB3jsk-UQU9ak92KK7O9KSGfzcyu8GC3CkQLw3uhbf7pDY-QviTk/s1600/June.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioPLPsKmxiLENxIgGlLekKqXKLqV74Uds9Y-AQ4yoru_LmRwFBfx9p-7H-FUK9lQJV1y6ieCZUCgDeBa4a4BaZ8xIKEB3jsk-UQU9ak92KK7O9KSGfzcyu8GC3CkQLw3uhbf7pDY-QviTk/s1600/June.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June's WIP up to part 2</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAg1j5DF-_Ht-27H8nVMSH7_Wqs2RkxwGcgTkZPnWnKVqJGozRrWc4o_kj9DgNDtO3afG6wuGuXSs0Gy7hYsGqLTWyCVc17udPVtXAtYxOlCsRRiqY9z68eP2d0iPd-tNAnJK-uIuTDLFE/s1600/Lotti.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAg1j5DF-_Ht-27H8nVMSH7_Wqs2RkxwGcgTkZPnWnKVqJGozRrWc4o_kj9DgNDtO3afG6wuGuXSs0Gy7hYsGqLTWyCVc17udPVtXAtYxOlCsRRiqY9z68eP2d0iPd-tNAnJK-uIuTDLFE/s1600/Lotti.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lotti's WIP up to part 6</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimFZ0ghDlmFQFCmElgC0LD1VBNzytVmCObKw2CzEMCCsJkAnAuW2qua01yp-vc95mB6H9DOfQAlcEKpnF6torPbC1FTJHHBXGxRZjEmUjRmVpz8vWrQftjjty2AVQWhyphenhyphenx7z4vT10tEJGWS/s1600/Marjan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimFZ0ghDlmFQFCmElgC0LD1VBNzytVmCObKw2CzEMCCsJkAnAuW2qua01yp-vc95mB6H9DOfQAlcEKpnF6torPbC1FTJHHBXGxRZjEmUjRmVpz8vWrQftjjty2AVQWhyphenhyphenx7z4vT10tEJGWS/s1600/Marjan.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marjan's WIP up to part 8</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_zXvXVVbrlbQFEI7BXn9J87ZR50hDxNuTbfaN1dMUQBebytGD2ygNbkMKRclzkvZ1_Sm5Q4pubpDbdbWgPxjJLl77y-F3-b30IgY76hbuSi391E8WFDjxJvp-O65ZT7R8YnlUuJCAnUB_/s1600/Nicola.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_zXvXVVbrlbQFEI7BXn9J87ZR50hDxNuTbfaN1dMUQBebytGD2ygNbkMKRclzkvZ1_Sm5Q4pubpDbdbWgPxjJLl77y-F3-b30IgY76hbuSi391E8WFDjxJvp-O65ZT7R8YnlUuJCAnUB_/s1600/Nicola.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nicola's WIP (restarted with different colours) up to part 3</td></tr>
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Hope everyone is enjoying this frigid snowy weather! We haven't had a real winter like this in a while in Southern Ontario so I suppose I can't complain too much. It's great stitching weather, which is good because I've got LOTS of new stuff to stitch. I've got one new release for Nashville market, I'll be posting a sneak preview later on in the week after I finish the chart pack up. And with that, I'm going to go finish it!Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-48959233291953104862014-01-09T20:36:00.001-05:002014-01-09T20:36:36.808-05:00"March"ing on...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Aquamarine is done! I love these smaller designs - all these finishes make me feel so accomplished. lol<br />
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The design uses a single colour of Soie D'Alger, along with a matching Delica Bead and Swarovski Crystal. These designs are mostly specialty stitches, combined to create different effects and textures, and the chart includes diagrams for all stitches used. The entire series is stitched on 32ct Raw Belfast Linen from Zweigart.<br />
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So excited to finish this one because it means I can get back to work on another new series. The first will be coming out just in time for Nashville market. :)Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-16433629400702969952014-01-02T18:20:00.002-05:002014-01-02T18:21:23.787-05:00New Release: Celtic ValentineA new year's finish! :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZylPvbX2gj_ixGry4VK0G6PmkPYwToRva7CdOjy2w-3CGqA0MYXen3sBH9ccGQTVTVS1RlBAZ2ugllv-B-CUi3K1kHrwBWzpgRDFMMVJkr-X_z-vO2WH8jB1n5PM95DyT24gsvLhQoH3O/s1600/Celtic+Valentine+Cover+Sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZylPvbX2gj_ixGry4VK0G6PmkPYwToRva7CdOjy2w-3CGqA0MYXen3sBH9ccGQTVTVS1RlBAZ2ugllv-B-CUi3K1kHrwBWzpgRDFMMVJkr-X_z-vO2WH8jB1n5PM95DyT24gsvLhQoH3O/s320/Celtic+Valentine+Cover+Sm.jpg" width="306" /></a></div>
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Celtic Valentine uses Dragonflylotus Designs threads on Sassy's Fabbys 36ct Brownie Sundae, Delica beads, Swarovski pearls and Kelmscott Designs buttons. As always a conversion to DMC/Mill Hill is included in the chart.<br />
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Lots more new stuff coming soon, the next Birthstone design, Aquamarine will be out next week, and later this month I'll be releasing the start of another new series of geometric cross stitch designs. :) Busy busy.<br />
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The latest part of The Learning Sampler went out on December 31st, if you haven't received it, let me know!<br />
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Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season. :)<br />
<br />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-80814285770948334132013-12-06T15:52:00.000-05:002013-12-06T15:52:53.924-05:00The adventure continues...Say hello to Amethyst, the second in the Birthstone Series.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVpLV7ixxoGLxEf7-PoVk0jrvFROfTZwQ7DtACgpkx9dSjY41KFgFsrdJmuFYts95HhV70-ETfR8pPpL_GI4zJPx-WMCdcT0JjQ4J4j8d3yvz_6x86BTgroxPiQcbB61Oowrv9MGCBMyUO/s1600/Amethyst+Cover+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVpLV7ixxoGLxEf7-PoVk0jrvFROfTZwQ7DtACgpkx9dSjY41KFgFsrdJmuFYts95HhV70-ETfR8pPpL_GI4zJPx-WMCdcT0JjQ4J4j8d3yvz_6x86BTgroxPiQcbB61Oowrv9MGCBMyUO/s320/Amethyst+Cover+small.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I loved stitching this one, the textures come out cooler than I'd planned! And of course it's purple.<br />
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The design is a small one, 100x100, but it's jam packed with specialty stitches, Delica beads and Swarovski crystals.<br />
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The chart also includes instructions and mock ups for combining months together to make them into a wedding or anniversary sampler, or stitch them all together for one (very) large design. Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3486902113258728399.post-40117893252998182502013-11-29T00:31:00.001-05:002013-11-29T00:31:35.220-05:00The Learning Sampler Part 5I did already post my picture of this, but here it is again...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XMc2raHkmvURC0hyphenhyphenQk6U9A1Xt3PmQg4oXyI1fBTHutFm9B64EIsfUDnxVSykZCaVJHzdCrOmCw2w-8Ir-gZnkzRUs7agk2pecaCorteN3qegG4_lo2_nbBqXswQC_tf3_XWLS4zpoKC5/s1600/TLS5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XMc2raHkmvURC0hyphenhyphenQk6U9A1Xt3PmQg4oXyI1fBTHutFm9B64EIsfUDnxVSykZCaVJHzdCrOmCw2w-8Ir-gZnkzRUs7agk2pecaCorteN3qegG4_lo2_nbBqXswQC_tf3_XWLS4zpoKC5/s320/TLS5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I've just emailed out part 5, if you didn't receive it, please email me!<br />
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Here are some of the members WIPs so far. :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsoJa2hym1f7JL4lO8ORWtUgKbYrYaO6uPU6K0UATe2IF3sIODpWD4baYOKmPJp7LRIz5nLoS8BE6639guNC0z9rfyhtAVggVMJxt6Lk4D0j4K-RVVwqorxGBC8IRP_RdBk0tyxNAeJFKy/s1600/Jana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsoJa2hym1f7JL4lO8ORWtUgKbYrYaO6uPU6K0UATe2IF3sIODpWD4baYOKmPJp7LRIz5nLoS8BE6639guNC0z9rfyhtAVggVMJxt6Lk4D0j4K-RVVwqorxGBC8IRP_RdBk0tyxNAeJFKy/s1600/Jana.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jana's WIP </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJNyncSFL2PQVmwU0eEd5Sdjl0vDpi5eV_xj0gkg1RqbqiD9gNGWSlMgM5M3XLv_kS-YDiuVhOoCptP6ITBiHQTBVdqdA4BP3MoXaVmjMjhnHZbmZF7edkbQVsm3DnmJwunY1csSwBDF9t/s1600/Jean.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJNyncSFL2PQVmwU0eEd5Sdjl0vDpi5eV_xj0gkg1RqbqiD9gNGWSlMgM5M3XLv_kS-YDiuVhOoCptP6ITBiHQTBVdqdA4BP3MoXaVmjMjhnHZbmZF7edkbQVsm3DnmJwunY1csSwBDF9t/s1600/Jean.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jean's WIP</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVJpCwtU1jr-tMfVqXuY6pq6GUQE5ZqoQZBH4LWALIB53MZaB46kMoQket6oykilak-j-qCem1YvboAakphZ_bOqhI4VKdBZMjf494yO4895LJlsvNwng9ffJcI89fHJtWuMvU0UzoR73O/s1600/Lottie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVJpCwtU1jr-tMfVqXuY6pq6GUQE5ZqoQZBH4LWALIB53MZaB46kMoQket6oykilak-j-qCem1YvboAakphZ_bOqhI4VKdBZMjf494yO4895LJlsvNwng9ffJcI89fHJtWuMvU0UzoR73O/s1600/Lottie.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lotti's WIP</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihX021qZiq_ZmpzCUZmDJ-2BogUK-j9DFfwmkGEKyklL6S941NQW1xfBMkgx6FxvD5eovQuCNNr23fU_pekc-TvZTWD9T38ht1t1SqPZsAYI0IL3Hpt3qgGE_ukZpNH0G3wQbxja490L9_/s1600/Marjan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihX021qZiq_ZmpzCUZmDJ-2BogUK-j9DFfwmkGEKyklL6S941NQW1xfBMkgx6FxvD5eovQuCNNr23fU_pekc-TvZTWD9T38ht1t1SqPZsAYI0IL3Hpt3qgGE_ukZpNH0G3wQbxja490L9_/s1600/Marjan.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marjan's WIP - who is way ahead of even me!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwIjM_W6tR39vi4U6XB997KE4bGQcT9GuV7yOzbCYvDRpcBBw1wpBsGbJBI1zil5fc_nhYNR7S5icpCA5zT2c88qcuJRoxSSKDDONcH9tLpVyquEVeF3D2mGZYHuv5ikU-9j0Sy-HBCnn1/s1600/Cornelia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwIjM_W6tR39vi4U6XB997KE4bGQcT9GuV7yOzbCYvDRpcBBw1wpBsGbJBI1zil5fc_nhYNR7S5icpCA5zT2c88qcuJRoxSSKDDONcH9tLpVyquEVeF3D2mGZYHuv5ikU-9j0Sy-HBCnn1/s1600/Cornelia.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cornelia's WIP (including part 5)</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Can't wait to see what everyone else comes up with!Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05030977367531069584noreply@blogger.com3