Stitching Blogger's Question of The Week

How do you explain cross stitch to non-cross stitching people? Do they get it or do they say “Oh, right.. you do knitting then (or sewing, or needlepoint)"?

I've pretty much given up trying to explain these days. I think if you're not a crafter you just don't understand. I go as far as correcting someone in calling it Needlework if they call it something like sewing or needlepoint. I'm a cross stitcher through and through but most of the curious masses are content at "Needlework". Some of the more curious are amazed that the image isn't already on the fabric that I can stitch without any reference on the fabric. If I'm in the mood I may go into detail about finding the centre of the design and fabric and just starting there. But these days I just don't bother... They're interrupting in my stitching time anyhow!

HUGE MODEL HAPPY DANCE

Well I am celebrating in my household tonight, despite the rain we're getting from the reminants of hurricane Francis, and some minor flooding in my basement this afternoon (no damage, just 30 minutes of panic)

My model, Bandon Lighthouse by c1998 Marc Saastad of The Silver Lining is FINISHED! This model has been on the go, very slowly since October of 2003.

May I share with you, stitched over one on 28ct Lavender Sunset Joblean : Bandon Lighthouse

Stitching Bloggers Question Of The Week

How do you explain cross stitch to non-cross stitching people? Do they get it or do they say “Oh, right.. you do knitting then (or sewing, or needlepoint)"?

I do get asked frequently what I'm doing and yes often people call it sewing, knitting, needlepoint. I am a cross stitcher... my passion is cross stitching. Over the years I have given up trying to explain it I just say yeah I'm doing NEEDLEWORK. I suppose that's close enough. If they continue to ask me questions I'll continue to answer but most people are happy to leave it at needlework. Some people are amazed that the pattern is not already on the fabric.... I do counted cross stitch but I never bother to explain that either. Usually once I tell them what its going to be I get left alone after that.

First September Christmas Ornament

Before getting back to Bandon Light I decided to finish up an ornament I had started ... a little stitching for myself. This month I've stitched up a freebie from the Caron Website by Ute Senkel-Weinberg c2004

This heart is stitched on 32ct Platinum Lugana, using Caron Waterlillies - Holiday.

The Model Is All Stitched Up!

Yup, remember that Dragon Dreams model I talked about earlier this week? Well its all done! I love it when a project goes so smoothly. Its also a great experience when you can talk to the designer when you feel something isn't working or perhaps its frustrating and you're opinion is valued! Based on some troubles I had Jennifer was great and agreed to a fiber substitution.

I was working with a new (to me) fiber and it just wasn't quite working with the fabric and I found it quite frustrating to stitch with... even just to thread the needle.

Thanks Jen for listening and letting me stitch for you! You're the best!

So now after this pleasant break from my over one lighthouse I'm back to it!

A New Model

There's nothing like receiving a new model in the mail! I think sometimes I'm worse than a kid at Christmas! I have to restrain myself from opening the package in the car, even when my house is just down the street. I get quite excited when I get a new "top secret" model, something that's been seen by so few... Whoever the designer wishes to share her/his creation with. To look at the fabric, and the fibers/colours and imagine what its really going to look like all stitched up. Since no one has stitched it before, there's no picture!

Today I got a much anticipated model from one of my favorite designers, Jennifer of Dragon Dreams. Not only does she have unique ideas (and this one is pretty cool!) she a wonderful person as well, an excellent combination! If you're attending the Creative Sewing and Needlework Festival in Toronto this October, Jennifer's stitching over two class will be a lot of fun! Sorry to be such a horrible tease but I'm sworn to secrecy! I'd hate to have the Dragon mad at me, because she is the nicest Dragon you'd ever meet. Hopefully at some point down the road she'll let me share my happy dance with you!

Teee heee... its also fun being in on the secret!

September Goals

First I'll start with my August Review...

1. Finish Myster 6 pt 8 - Done, even got part 9 finished too!
2. Finish Mini Mystery F part 2 - Done
3. Stitch 2 x-mas ornaments - Done
4. Finish Bandon Lighthouse - Nope but pages 5&7 are done
5. Finish Mini Cottages 3 - Done
6. Start Celtic Heart - Yup!


September Goals

1. Finsih Bandon Light
2. Finish Mini Mystery F part 3
3. Finish Celtic Heart
4. Stitch 2 x-mas ornaments
5. Stitch a bug on Charlie's Wee Beasties RR