Stitches of Life

Beading -- Part One

2012-01-20T06:00:00.000-06:00

With a lot of help from my friends .... I made a pair of earrings:

pattern designed by

Aren't these pretty? I recently met Candice Sexton. She + several of my GFs attend bead club together. They are amazing with all the awesome things they create!!! At a recent holiday party, Candy brought this pattern + supplies needed to make earrings. Each of us selected beads in different colors + styles. I was not in my comfort zone, tho, think I chose good colors! Candy will be teaching at the Bead + Button Show (June) Her etsy is loaded with kits + patterns. What talent!!!! Candy was a trooper - wonderful supplies, excellent tips, and endless resource for all things beading. My friends teach and take classes at The Artisan's Workshop (think all things glass, beads, creative!).

It was my lucky day as I won the drawing for a beautiful autumn color bracelet - made by Candy - with beads and sequins. It is fun to wear.

Did you notice the beaded cat fob in the above photo? GF Beth makes a Perfect Peyote Stitch!!! This Fob kit is from Fern Ridge Collections. I had it attached to the zipper pull on my hand bag - it was made by GF Beth - notice the mouse in the fringe?

................. stay tuned for Beading -- Part Two

Beading -- Part Two

2012-01-20T01:00:00.000-06:00

I have no idea how these were created - GF Debbie made them

for me. There is a dark pearl in the center and beautiful bead work

sewn around. (can you tell I don't know 'bead speak'). Stunning!!!!

Is this a beautiful crystal bracelet? Oh, when I wear

it - the sparkle is dazzling!!! Made by GF Debbie.

(who has a lot of beading talent!!!)

Another awesome earring set. They are pearl-like chips

with beautiful crystals! Fun to wear and I appreciate

my beading friends who share their creations.

These were made by Candice.

Thx so much! I adore all my new treasures ; )

Pincushion Parade!!!

2012-01-18T09:41:00.000-06:00

Beth blogging at Love Laugh Quilt

is hosting a Pincushion Parade + asks

bloggers to share their collection.

Details on her post: Pincushion Parade!!!

Here are some of mine:

I stitched and finished these needlerolls.

They are Shep Bush kits and Sekas designs.

Two of these beautiful pinkeeps were gifts. The Souvenir de France was

stitched + finished by GF Anna. The Christmas Heart was

stitched + finished by GF Cathy B. I stitched and finished the small

Sampler Pinkeep - and still have a small one half stitched!

I stitched and finished this Pin Cube.

This is a kit - wool I made a cupcake. I made a few of the kits - fun to assemble.

A beautiful wool (in muffin tin) pincushion

given to me (and made by) GF Beth --- Tho, I confess

no pin has ever landed on the wool basket!

These, I use ALL THE TIME. GF Sue made the Stick it Here. It is the perfect

size for 'on the go' pincushion!!! The other two were made by my Mom.

She had a yard of fabric + the designs were cut and sewn into pincushions. She embellished

with quilting, beads, etc. I use them ALL THE TIME.

Ok, time for YOU to share yours ; )

giveaway + giveaway + giveaways ....

2012-01-15T22:55:00.000-06:00

The South Paw Stitcher

is hosting a giveaway to celebrate

a year of blogging ....

Details on her post

Blogoversary Giveaway

-------------------------------------------------------------

Moon Silk Stitches

also hosting a giveaway ...

details on her post

New Giveaway

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Have you seen the party going on

over on

Kathy's Blog?

Oh my -- visit

Shaw kl

for her daily prizes.

What are you still doing here?????

Hello Kitty ... Dress-Me

2012-01-07T09:50:00.000-06:00

When I bought the original

Hello Kitty Dress-Me Plush (in October) ...

I swore I wouldn't do it.

Then, a $10 off coupon arrived in my

e-mail for their newsletter sign up.

(Yes, my plush needed winter gear)

Ordered a new outfit in December.

and ... I thought the Angel outfit

was perfect holiday gear

(bought in November .... ).

This is the original plush with summer pajamas.

I waited, and debated, and when the store

only had TWO left - I caved and purchased in October.

The brown plush is charming; as is the baby plush ...

Maybe the next shopping trip, because I swear I won't be

the person who buys the entire wardrobe ....

Marjorie's Giveaway and Locker Hook progress

2012-01-04T22:37:00.000-06:00

Done, done, done ... Yes, it is finished.

This Quilt Block project

was a locker hooking class - GF Mel and I took (Nov 2010?)

at Needle + Thread in Valparaiso, IN.

It is so pretty. Really like the way it turned out.

[Aside from the awesome quilting classes ....

I see they offer a sock monkey class in February.]

I 'stalled' on GF Beth's snowman project.

Beth started + gave up! I plan to get the last few rows

done with a different background fabric --- it is close in color.

I bought this book when it was released :

Locking Loops

Theresa Pulido

and like the colors and patterns. Interesting

to mix locker hooking with a variety of shapes -- use of tile, ribbon, buttons, beads.

-----------------------------------------------

The red bags with spools of

Kreinik fibers

were table favors from the

NANI Holiday Party.

Tori and I attended - so, I have 4 spools!!

It was a nice party with delicious food,

excellent games (yes, I won a Target gift card),

and social time with friends!!!

Did you see the Emery on the right?

Does it look familiar?

Perhaps you saw it pictured on Moonsilk Stitches

GIVEAWAY blog post. (it is so kewl - wonderful to have creative friends!!!)

Don't miss Marjorie's GIVEAWAY --- see her post:

Emeries and Giveaway

for details.

Hello 2012, Good-bye 2011

2012-01-01T15:12:00.000-06:00

Beautiful flowers from DH.

DH + DS(N) found them at the grocery store.

Happy New Year.

I had so many wonderful experiences

in 2011. Difficult to pinpoint one special time.

DH + I were able to spend more time

together and even had a vacation! Two of our children

were able to vacation a few of the days with us -

which made it extra special.

Bye 2011 ...

I crossed off the last item on my 'bucket list'.

DH surprised me with a sunrise

hot air balloon ride (back in October).

Followed by Champagne Toast + Breakfast.

I've wanted to ride ... for many many years ...

2011 was the year.

It was peaceful, serene,

more awesome than words can describe.

Looking up. The ballon is named Envy.

Our pilot Jeff Thompson + co-passengers.
ThompsonAire Balloon Rides
Orlando, FL

The Balloonist's Prayer:
The Winds have welcomed you with softness.
The Sun has blessed you with it's warm hands.
You have flown so high and so well,
that God has joined you in your laughter
and set you gently back again,
into the loving arms of Mother Earth.

2012-01-01T02:45:00.005-06:00

2011-12-24T19:44:00.002-06:00

First day of Winter .....

2011-12-22T04:00:00.000-06:00

is December 22nd.

Lucet Braiding

2011-12-17T04:18:00.001-06:00

I have attempted my first cord with the lucet. I'm using:

Lucet Braiding: Variations On A Renaissance Cord by Elaine Fuller.

I used some crochet cotton - size 3. With practice, I should

get a better tension.

There is a lot of information on-line & this was quick

and fun to make.

--------------- edited 12/19

Here is a direct link to Amazon :
http://www.amazon.com/Lucet-Braiding-Variations-Renaissance-Cord/dp/1891656066

Sorry, link in the post did not work.

Gifts from Mom

2011-12-14T16:59:00.000-06:00

Christmas Cat Tree

Michelle M. Lash: Brittercup Designs

Christmas Tree 2011

Karen Kluba: Rosewood Manor

from Just Cross Stitch Magazine

(2011 Ornaments Issue)

------------------

Not sure the designer or pattern name.

Sure is pretty ; )

Thx Mom. Your ornaments are beautiful.

giveaway(s)

2011-12-13T19:00:00.000-06:00

Victorian Motto Sampler Shop

hosting a couple holiday giveaways ....

Details on these posts:

Hand Dyed Floss Giveaway for Christmas

AND

Merry Christmas Giveaway: Hand dyed floss, charts, + Hand Dyed Trim!s

Kanzashi Flower Maker

2011-12-07T00:35:00.000-06:00

I have enjoyed the Clover Templates for round and heart shapes. Also, fun to make the round and butterfly shapes.

When they made Kanzashi (flower) templates, I was over the moon!!!! They have three types of flowers in two sizes; (six templates) for flower petals. The petals are strung on a strong fiber/thread (I like quilting thread) ... then, embellished with stash. Buttons, fibers, tatting, yo-yos, etc.

Should you get the chance, pick up a template and enjoy making some flowers!!!

Jewelry Open House

2011-12-06T14:33:00.003-06:00

Advent Calendar Links

2011-12-06T10:00:00.001-06:00

Serendipitous Stitcher,

Brenda's Advent Calendar,

The Lace Guild - Advent Calendar

What is it?

2011-12-05T04:08:00.000-06:00

Ah yes, dear readers ... I have something

new to play around with.

Beginner's Kit

for

Quilling!!!

We had an introduction to Quilling during

Tatting Corner's 11th Annual Tatting Day.

Jennifer passed out paper, rulers (templates), glue,

card stock & all of the students made a heart and

attached it to card stock. Oh, my - really had a good time!

(And, as things seem to vanish around here ---

I've already lost the ruler with the circle guides and had to order a new one.)

While I should have picked up holiday kits,

I bought bugs + butterfly (bug collection).

Stay tuned, hope to have some little bugs soon.

Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art

2011-12-03T01:24:00.003-06:00

I have wanted to view this exhibit

since October. I never seem to

find free time to go!

The article on the web site

is so interesting - check out the photos, too.

----------------------------

General Information:

Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
220 Cottage Hill Avenue in Wilder Park
Elmhurst, Illinois 60126
Phone: 630.833.1616
Fax: 630.833.1225
eMail: info@lizzadromuseum.org

Hours

Sunday	1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Monday	Closed
Tuesday	10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday	10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Thursday	10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday	10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Free Admission)
Saturday	10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
*	The Museum is closed on major holidays

Hello Kitty

2011-12-01T05:07:00.000-06:00

Recently, I've had fun

with Hello Kitty

Happy Meal Toys.

DD got the one in the middle, a small jewelry box

with two braclets AND

DS got the one on the right - you wind it up and the hula hoop swirls around.

And, during a recent trip to Hobby Lobby

with DD and DH, picked up the TY Beanie Babie (on the left)

to clip on to a bag (or something) - Maybe put it on the tree!

I must remember to pick up an angel

costume for my 12" HK! She will need holiday theme!

Textile Exhibit opens December 16th at the AIC

2011-11-25T06:58:00.023-06:00

Art Institute of Chicago

Galleries 57-59

has a new exhibit opening

December 16, 2011 (thru May 13, 2012)

Fabric of a New Nation: American Needlework + Textiles 1776-1840

From web site:

"over 45 bedcovers, coverlets, needlework, printed handkerchiefs

+ other household textiles from the permanent collection

of the Department of Textiles. "

----------------------------------

Art Institute of Chicago

111 So Michigan Ave

Chicago, IL 60603-6404

2011-11-23T20:00:00.000-06:00

"The Present"

2011-11-19T14:24:00.000-06:00

Today is ...

2011-11-16T15:16:00.001-06:00

Button Day!

--------------------
The buttons picture above
are from a recent giveaway
sponsored by
Button Floozies

Halloween Issue

2011-11-10T21:48:00.000-06:00

I was happy to be selected

by Sharon

for her magazine giveaway.

She had an extra

Annual Halloween Issue of

Just CrossStitch.

Thx Sharon!

And, swing by her blog, Sharon's Cross Stitch Obsession,

when you have free time.

Among her beautiful needlework projects,

she has a couple wonderful

samplers in progress.

Buttons!!!

2011-11-07T14:46:00.000-06:00

Laurie at

Button Floozies

pulled my name for the 700 followers giveaway.

I'm so lucky!!!

I received a fabulous package in the mail:

Imagine opening all this????

(Did you hear me squealing with delight???)

A splendid assortment of carded buttons, recycled glass.

I am the proud owner of a unique --

creative decorated tin FULL of ceramic, plastic, wood, glass buttons.

Thank you so much!

I'm grateful and am enjoying the button assortment accross my desk!!!

I wish the weather cooperated in cheerful photos ---

Much better images by Laurie:

Photographs HERE

--------------------

Should you be interested, there is a

Button Swap

being coordinated (sign up Nov 1-11).

Details on the Button Floozie Blog

Happy Birthday: Hello Kitty

2011-11-01T19:45:00.000-05:00

(Per official character profiles for Hello Kitty,

her real name is Kitty White and she was born

in the suburbs of London, England on November 1)

2011-10-31T12:31:00.000-05:00

Elm Creek Book Series

2011-10-29T11:26:00.000-05:00

Look what is being released

in NOVEMBER ...

The Wedding Quilt

by Jennifer Chiaverini

It is a giveaway ....

2011-10-26T14:32:00.000-05:00

Isn't this charming?????

Crows Take A Break

Candle mat by

Margie

Details can be found

Hungry Hook Primitives

blog

Keeping my fingers crossed to become the WINNER!!!

Shopping ....

2011-10-22T23:39:00.001-05:00

I thought this so pretty with the beaded button ...
and embroidery.

Found at the

10,000 Villages store.

There is a zipper section inside - probably perfect for a couple tatting shuttles on the go ...

Button Floozies

2011-10-22T23:05:00.011-05:00

Button Floozies

Is a wonderful place to see creative

ways to use buttons --- and,

well, all things "button".

If you have not visited this site ... rush on over ....

(and, did you notice the little book with

tatted edge?)

Lots of Celebrating going on ...

2011-10-05T00:05:00.000-05:00

Flowers from DH : )

For our Anniversary.

We hung out at Starbuck's with DD

and decided to include the children in our evening plans.

We took them out to dinner

at Don Quijote Restaurant to celebrate DD's birthday and our Anniversary.

The tapas and paella were delicious.

What an enchanting evening of good food, fun conversation,

and delighted by complimentary dessert + toast from the owner!

I bought tennis rackets for DH + I -- he bought John Mellencamp concert tickets.

DH wins, he is the better gift giver! Something to look forward to next month.

L.A.C.E. class

2011-09-21T14:00:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, Karol and I went to the L.A.C.E.
spool knitting class.

Karol used wire and awesome pink + green beads. Watch for picture on her blog, Rosebuds Stitching!

I learned a new way to start the spool
(backwards from the way I used the spools as a kid)
and add BEADS.

Here, I used Cebelia #20 with 6/0 craft beads, adding
beads in one row, knitting a row, adding beads. (row isn't quite right as these are circular)

Did you see the awesome spool? They are wooden with a wonderful center.
Large enough for the beads+fiber to fall thru. They are by
Simply Wild Crafts in Naperville, IL.

I was curious how it would look
with #3 crochet cotton - and adding a bead
in every knitted stitch. So perfect, almost
looks like a cord!

My next attempt will be with a black crochet cotton - maybe a size 10.
It is quick and fun to do. A nice way to use up some craft stash I have on hand.

These are the spools I already own.
It took me awhile to get them all in one tin!

Free Admission to participating Museums

2011-09-17T17:24:00.011-05:00

September 24th is Museum Day

Per their web site:
In the spirit of Smithsonian Museums, who offer free admission everyday, Museum Day is an annual event hosted by Smithsonian magazine in which participating museums across the country open their doors to anyone presenting a Museum Day Ticket...for free.

For a list of participating museums,
click on This Link

Feast of the Hunters' Moon

2011-09-15T16:59:00.015-05:00

Feast of the Hunters' Moon

September 24 - 25, 2011

Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EDT
Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. EDT.

Location:
The Feast is held on the grounds of Fort Ouiatenon
Historic Park,
four miles
southwest of West Lafayette, Indiana.

3129 South River Road,
West Lafayette

pdf file - brochure

Visit their
web site
for additional information.

Covered Bridge Harvest Fest, Crown Point, Indiana

2011-09-13T18:44:00.012-05:00

Fifth Annual

Covered Bridge Harvest Fest

Lake Co Fairgrounds

Crown Point, IN

Fri 9/23

6pm-10pm

Sat 9/24

10am-10pm

Sun 9/25

10am-6pm

Web link - Covered Bridge Harvest Fest

Hay rides, live entertainment, corn hole tournament,

arts + crafts, food vendors, car show, pumpkins,

model railroad exhibit & more.

Duneland Heritage Fest

2011-09-12T18:18:00.015-05:00

Duneland Heritage Days
formerly known as Duneland Harvest Festival

Saturday, September 17, 2011 - Sunday, September 18, 2011
11:00AM - 5:00PM

This free event features authentic music, dance, demonstrations, hands-on activities, and traditional foods for the whole family.

Bailly Homestead/Chellberg Farm
Mineral Springs Road
Porter, Indiana 46304

Duneland Heritage Days - link to information

2011-09-10T04:03:00.006-05:00

When : June 13th and September 10th

Sewing Machine Day celebrates a very important invention ----- the sewing machine. The first sewing machines were made in France in the 1830s. It wasn't until 1846, that they were patented in the U.S. What a great invention. Prior to it's creation, clothes items were sewn together by hand...stitch by stitch.

People who know how to use a sewing machine are dwindling in number. Our mothers and grandmothers had a sewing machine in the house. They used it, too. But, look around your house. Do you have a sewing machine? Chance are, the answers is no.

If you have a sewing machine, enjoy today making things with it. If not, consider picking up sewing as a hobby.

Per Holiday Insights web site.

I'm on page 14!

2011-09-09T08:31:00.001-05:00

I was very excited when Pat Winter,
blogging at Gatherings,
asked me to send her a photograph and article for
the Autumn issue
of Crazy Quilt Gatherings Magazine.

It was a challenge for me to write the article. The flower making
was so much fun!

The information is on page 14 of the Autumn 2011 Issue of Crazy Quilt Gatherings Magazine.

I have some new cuts of fabric, need to grab a tin of buttons and give my tatting shuttles a work out ....

so stay tuned for more ...

Material World

2011-09-08T22:03:00.008-05:00

April 22, 2011-February 6, 2012
Paul Textile Gallery & Fashion Arts Gallery

Web Site
LINK HERE

Indianapolis Museum of Art, 4000 Michigan Road,
Indianapolis, Indiana 46208-3326 | 317-923-1331

back from Florida ....

2011-09-08T13:41:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I visited the Patchwork Pig in Lakeland, FL.
It was a lovely shop and I found some beautiful fabric pieces
for Kanzashi flowers.

While in Florida, I visited the Morse Museum and was delighted with all the Tiffany on display. The pieces on display included jewelry, lamps, pottery, paintings, windows - and the chapel interior designed for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition (was in Chicago). Impressive!!!

In addition to Morse, I visited the nearby

the Cornell Fine Arts Museum. (pictured above)

The Cornell had a fabulous Albert Bierstadt painting on display. Oh my, stunning. In addition they had two galleries of photography - and I enjoyed the Watch Keys. A whole display case of watch keys - with carvings, gems, shapes, crystals, coins ... very creative keys!

Valparaiso Popcorn Festival

2011-09-08T13:24:00.000-05:00

Saturday, September 10, 2011
Valparaiso, IN

brochure

E-mail: info@valparaisoevents.com

DIRECTIONS
From the West, take I 80/90 or I 94 E. to I 65 S. to
US 30 E. approximately 10 miles to Hayes Leonard
School - SOUTH Popcorn Shuttle area.
From the East, take I 80/90 or I 94 W. to St. Rd. 49
S. Turn right on to Vale Park Rd. (400 N.) Follow
signs - NORTH Popcorn Shuttle area.

Camera Photo by DH

2011-09-05T08:49:00.000-05:00

Good Morning!

sight unseen, must have ...

2011-09-02T23:34:00.000-05:00

EDITED:I just noticed, Anita has pictures from both ofthese publications .... check out Anita's Stitching Blog!!!

When I heard about the A Schoolgirl's Work from the Blackbird Designs blog, I wanted it.
Picked it up last week + have enjoyed it --- as for the patterns, I liked Hannah's basket .... then, I saw Rosebud Sachets and think if I ever get around to needlework --- that would be my first choice from the book.
After I get some tatting done ; )
And, the Ornaments 2011 magazine is out ... picked my copy us this afternoon - and a copy for Mom.
(Good to see you Kathy H! - w/o blog, who needs one to showcase her awesome Halloween stitching!)
Back to orn mag ....I'm happy w/this issue.
Esp interesting - Shepherd's Bush, Janie Hubble Designs and Mosey n Me. Fun snowflakes + snow people.
Baffling to me - a coin purse, an Easter egg?

Doll and Bear Show

2011-09-01T13:12:00.006-05:00

Valparaiso Dolls & Friends Club
are sponsoring

Doll & Bear Show

Sunday, September 11, 2011

9am - 3pm

Porter County Expo Center
North East Corner of U.S. 49
and Division Road

Four miles South of U.WS. 30 on Rt. 49

Valparaiso, Indiana

Quilts on exhibit

2011-08-29T19:25:00.000-05:00

If you get the chance, stop by Lockport, IL
and see the quilts on display.

It is four miles from 355 in Lockport, Illinois.

I visited Sunday afternoon + caught the presentation, too.

NANI friend, Lynn, had gone and said some nice things about the information + quilts in the gallery. I headed out there (oh my, they really need to fix 80).

The display is up thru September 16, 2011 ....

Did I mention the Yarn + Tea store next door to the gallery?

Or the Quilt Store on the Corner? Oh yes, visited those, too.

Found this perfect size
Art Bin at the Yarn Store.

Yes, the size 20 fibers
fit well!!!

People who knit have the best stuff!

Japanese Kimono

2011-08-28T21:56:00.006-05:00

Web Site
LINK HERE

Japanese Kimono, 1915–1940: From Tradition to Ready-to-Wear
June 16–November 13, 2011
Galleries 57–59

The Art Institute of Chicago, 111 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, 60603-6404

Gifts from the Stitch Bitch

2011-08-22T21:24:00.000-05:00

Anna, who blogs as
the Stitch Bitch,
recently posted:
At Long Last.

I was thrilled to be the recipient of her Souvenir de France project.

Anna has flawless stitches.
Oh my, I'm green with envy!
In her post, she said the fiber was
Rainbow Gallery's cashmere (I think it's violet).
The color is just beautiful.

This is the reverse side:

it has a pocket in the back
for scissors - and, the magnetic pin is so
kewl!
I've arranged the tiles a few times. Nice toy for this old fossil.

In addition to the beautiful eiffel tower + MoMA Pin,
she tucked in more gifts:

I know!
I'm so spoiled, I stink!

The quilted rectangle is awesome. I want to put it in my kitchen. Check out the beehive card! And The basket chart from BBD - will be a fun stitch. She even enclosed a few pins and trim for embellishments.

Thx Anna! Your pkg made my day!

new stash

2011-08-21T23:29:00.000-05:00

OK, I'm a bit behind on the blogging --- went into LaPorte for the Stash Sale / Fundraiser for Riley Children's Foundation. Was that a week ago?

I was fortunate to locate a few gems in the sale booths.

Scarlet Letter
Polly Miner Sampler

Misc rabbit motifs, Homespun Elegance patterns, and a spot sampler by The Drawn Thread

GF, Sue, had some net lace patterns - they are so interesting! Not sure how it is done, but very very interesting!!

Also, GF Mel had a stack of back issues for PieceWork Magazine. They are in the car - so, next time I'm waiting for DH or boyz, I"ll have an issue to read!!! I bought a few issues from Gen, too.

Nice selection at the sale this year. A little bit for everybody. Aside from shopping ---

Did enjoy lunch with Beth + Linen Stitcher. Nice to see Fran, Chris R, Karen W -- along with those selling, Mel, Sue + Gen. What a great afternoon! Nice weather, new stash, and a fun lunch!

I have more to post about, tho, quite tired. Stay tuned ....

Spider-Silk Textile

2011-08-20T21:53:00.000-05:00

A Golden Spider-Silk Textile
June 3–November 6, 2011
Gallery 137

More Information on the AIC
Web Site

The Art Institute of Chicago, 111 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, 60603-6404

ARTour 2011

2011-08-18T11:38:00.022-05:00

ARTour,
which is sponsored by the Chesterton Art Center
and downtown business owners,
provides an opportunity for visitors
to meet and observe
artists at works in shops, restaurants,
and art galleries throughout town.

A map of the locations and artists
will be available at each participation location.

One stop of interest might be the
Westchester Township History Museum
for short presentation on local artists
and a tour of the museum’s art collection (1-5 pm)

On the road ...

2011-08-16T20:34:00.000-05:00

Me and the 'cube' are on the road ...

First stop ... Orlando Museum of Art ... located in the beautiful
Orlando Loch Haven Park.

This tree was in the parking lot of the

Mennello Museum of American Art
where they have a dog sculpture
covered with BUTTONS!!!

Clearly, the artist is most awesome in my book ; )

Art Festival, Michigan City, Indiana

2011-08-10T17:15:00.002-05:00

Lakefront Art Festival

August 20 + 21, 2011

Washington Park, Michigan City

www.lubeznikcenter.org

Click on image to enlarge.

Last Summer, DH, DD, + I went to the festival. We had a wonderful time. We went to the sidewalk sale at the nearby Outlet Mall and rode the shuttle into the park. I look forward to this event + hope we will be able to attend this year!

Stash Sale and Art Walk; LaPorte, IN

2011-08-09T17:53:00.007-05:00

August 13th will be a busy day in LaPorte Indiana

Visit the Stash Sale and
stay for the
Art Walk
5-8pm

Gotta have one ....

2011-08-06T18:17:00.000-05:00

DH + I went to the Chesterton Art Fair this afternoon.
Hot + humid, light breeze; however, the artists were amazing!

The pouch pictured, was made by
Chris Acton
Chief Weaver
from Chesterton, IN

The minute I saw her 'sample' made into a pouch,
I knew exactly what the pouch needed ....
tatting supplies!

My much neglected shuttles are screaming to be used.

I keep reminding them to be patient as the Friday's demonstration at the Lake Co fairgrounds is my current priority --- then, it will be their turn!

If you are interested in the Art Fair --- it continues thru Sunday.
(information in previous post)

-----------------------

And Congratulations to the winners of the awards at Lake Co Fair! Delighted my friends entered stunning projects + judges gave a positive nod. I had zero entries this year and hope to enter next Summer.

Pictures are on South Paw Stitcher's blog. She has post re. Porter Co Fair and Lake Co Fair.

Chesterton, Indiana

2011-08-05T00:15:00.002-05:00

Chesterton Art Fair

Aug 6-7, 2011

10am-5pm
Hawthorne Park

$5 adults (children free)

Double Spiral Beaded Bracelet

2011-08-04T19:09:00.000-05:00

I have completed the spiral part - not sure how to add the findings on the ends.

Baby steps.

Picture of Finished Bracelet HERE

I want one!!

2011-08-02T11:48:00.002-05:00

A School Girl's Work

giveaway

2011-07-15T11:47:00.000-05:00

Lynn
is hosting a giveaway
of her beautiful embroidered felt
creations ...

details on her post:
One Felt Broach Giveaway.

Take a look around her blog
what inspiration!

Bent Creek

2011-07-12T18:42:00.019-05:00

Oh, Karol, you know me too well!

This is my Bent Creek WIP - I think called Autumn Row

I liked the pattern the second I saw it stitched up - autumn colors, birds, pumpkins, and an awesome ALPHABET.

Did you notice the Autism Speaks scissor fob? I ordered it when our EGA Chapter, Needle Artisans (NANI), had a workshop with the needlepoint canvas piece. Looks like they are still available if your scissors would like to have one on ...

This is a Bent Creek FREEBIE, I stitched awhile back:

. It is called One Dozen, c.1996. It was a delight to stitch. The tree, sun, bird motifs would be wonderful on the cover of a small needlebook (IMO).

Do you see my new pattern? Thx Karol for passing along your alphabet patterns. The Bent Creek Stitching Row

looks like a fun stitch!

She also passed along, Bent Creek's Seasonal Sampler, which you can see all stitched up on This Post.

Many thx!

In the Company of Friends ....

2011-07-11T18:20:00.000-05:00

In order to get to this:

I had to clear space among this:

This will grow into a bracelet ... I started with the black beads and gold beads. I also purchased a kit (two kits) for blue beads:

Should you be curious how it is supposed to look (knowing I create things at a snail's pace, check out the picture here. Our friend, Mel, made these bracelets. The class was taught at a recent NANI meeting with assistance by Sue D.

Did you notice this?:

My friend turned 60 - isn't this lovely? She tells me she will shelf her pen until she is 65. Then, get it out and start using it! What a hoot ; )

Life would not be as fun
without my special friends.

And, you know who you are!!!

Clutter ... Books ...

2011-07-10T23:42:00.000-05:00

Say what you will ... I just love my 'clutter'.
My desk is loaded with keepsakes and toys.
I know I need to clear some space for my beading (next post).
But, really, I do my best creative ramblings surrounded by my stuff.

Do you have things like this? I know it will end up in death's junkyard.
My kids will scratch their heads wondering 'what the heck'
'why'd she save this'
'pins? thimbles? ... what a fossil'

How can I explain the smiles some of these trinkets bring to mind?

These are the two books I'm currently reading:
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
(this book was banned in a nearby school district)
AND
Let the Great World Spin by Colum McCann
I admit purchasing this book in an airport awhile back -- and didn't read during that flight. So, grabbed it, stuffed into the suitcase + did start reading it during a recent flight -- delayed by rain (no surprise). It is interesting.

Awesome Giveaway ....

2011-07-09T20:45:00.001-05:00

The Southpaw Stitcher
is hosting a giveaway ....

check out her post
Half Blogoversary Giveaway ...

for details

AND, take a look around her blog posts, too!!!

Independence Day

2011-07-04T10:28:00.008-05:00

New Designer and a Giveaway

2011-06-30T13:49:00.000-05:00

Check out Berit's new blog
Along the Path of Pins + Needles

for a peek at her new design adventure
Jaunty Fox Designs

and, to launch the new Halloween design -
she is hosting a giveaway.

See Berit's post: Announcing Jaunty Fox Designs! for details.

kanzashi flower maker

2011-06-25T05:13:00.002-05:00

I had some questions ...

This is the Round Petal, Large Size ...

I am using slippery fabrics - not cotton on this flower ...(flower front)

It took me 20 minutes ...(back of the flower)

When using the cotton fabrics, the petals are more crisp ...The non-cotton fabrics have a softer look.
Should be fun to dump out my button box for the centers.

Clover's Kanzashi Flower Maker(s)

2011-06-23T00:40:00.002-05:00

Tori and I were in South Bend, Indiana
on Monday.

We swung by Erica's.

And found Clover Kanzashi Flower Makers. Many sizes, many styles.

This one is the
pointed petal, small size

Start with heavy quilting thread ...
make a petal with the flower maker tool ...
and keep stringing on the petals - now it is ready to have the center embellished

A new toy for fabric scraps!

Has anyone else tried these?

Upcoming Exhibit

2011-06-14T20:53:00.000-05:00

July 1 - Oct 2, 2011

Text Messages
..... works that use language, text or typography
to help convey meaning in a wide range of media

AND

Transcriptions
Works in handmade paper explore scale, color + texture.

Lubeznik Center for the Arts
101 W Second Street
Michigan City, IN 46360
219.874.4900

Tue-Fri
10-5

Sat, Sun
11-4

Flag Day

2011-06-14T07:10:00.005-05:00

Flag Day

June 14, 2011

Open Window sort of a day ....

2011-06-13T14:27:00.000-05:00

Honey sees the camera.

Nikki licking Honey's face.

Nikki curls up on the throw rug + Honey stretches out in the track of the door.

Tulip Slip

2011-06-10T15:07:00.001-05:00

Tulip Slip
Copyright Tricia Wilson Nguyen for Thistle Threads, 2010
Stitched by Kris Andrews

To raise $5000 (to complete budget) for a new
(per blog) .... exhibition being planned/worked on at Winterthur is With Cunning Needle: Four Centuries of Embroidery.
(It will run from September 3, 2011 – January 8, 2012. )

Tricia Wilson Nguyen, Thistle Threads has a Tulip Slip kit for sale. $10.00 of each kit is being donated to Winterthur.

Per blog: The reproduction Needlework Nibble is worked on 34 count linen with Soie d’Alger thread. The stitching kit is $18 with $10 of the kit price being donated to Winterthur in support of the exhibition budget.

What a beautiful design --- for more information
check out
tent stitch: Tulip Slip
and details for kit purchase

Per blog: The Tulip Slip is based off of a real 17th century slip in private collection.

Land of the Free

2011-06-02T21:59:00.001-05:00

Today is my youngest son's birthday. After a salad (and dessert) at Panera,
both of my sons and I went to Barnes and Noble.

I found this issue of Cross-Stitch & Needlework magazine & thought the BBD was nice:

If you are interested, this is the front cover:

Cross-Stitch + Needlework magazine

July 2011

Maggie Sefton - Knitting Mystery Series .... continues

2011-05-18T19:56:00.000-05:00

Unraveled by Maggie Sefton

Available June 7, 2011

Anybody planning to go?

2011-05-17T08:48:00.005-05:00

Bead and Button Show
June 4-12

Frontier Airline Center
400 W. Wisconsin Avenue
(Downtown Milwaukee)
Milwaukee, WI

I've never gone ...
tho, know a few ppl who have.

Maybe this year I'll be able to go!

Stories in Cloth

2011-05-14T13:09:00.000-05:00

May 21 – July 31, 2011

Loyola University Museum of Art
820 North Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
312.915.7600

Hours

Monday: closed
Tuesday: 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (free admission)
Wednesday – Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Closed on Mondays and the following holidays: New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T11:29:00.000-05:00

Flowers from the Boyz

May Day

2011-05-01T23:57:00.003-05:00

I managed a few letters in the sampler. I think my left hand is healed and I should be able to get moving along on some projects.

To see what this should look like: link to photo here.

I am still baffled that needlework caused so much pain in my hand, while tatting didn't bother me at all. It remains a mystery.

A giveaway

2011-04-30T21:16:00.000-05:00

Have you been to Chris Cross Corner blog?

Check out the nice giveaway
on the Royal Wedding Giveaway post.

I've been hacked

2011-04-30T12:29:00.002-05:00

Sorry to anyone who received e-mail from me 4/29 around 1:01pm.

It wasn't really from me - I have reset my password + hope it doesn't happen again.

Always, L.

2011-04-23T23:30:00.000-05:00

SAN-Q Summer 2011

2011-04-22T11:36:00.000-05:00

Did you receive your issue?

In addition to the wonderful photos, projects, articles,
did you notice the survey for readers?

Says the survey can be taken and mailed in, or may be taken online at:
www.sanqmagazine.com

I didn't see the online area for the survey. I think it is a good idea to poll the readers!

Textile Exhibit

2011-04-13T20:34:00.011-05:00

MATERIAL WORLD

April 22, 2011-February 5, 2012

Paul Textile Gallery;

"From court dress to couture, the objects in Material World will feature extravagant ornamentation of textiles and personal adornment from cultures around the world while highlighting the significance of textiles in displaying wealth, status and power. The exhibition will showcase items adorned with luxurious materials including gold and metallic threads, beads, shells, mirrors, semi-precious stones, bones, fur and feathers, ranging from a Buddhist bone apron to Dior and Chanel couture pieces, spanning several centuries to the present day"

--------------------------------------------------------------

Indianapolis Museum of Art

4000 Michigan Road

Indianapolis, IN

From Chicago

Take I-65 south to Martin Luther King Jr. Street (exit 117). Turn left (north) onto Martin Luther King Jr. Street and go about 1.1. miles, continuing north through the intersection at 38th Street. Note that north of 38th Street, Martin Luther King Jr. Street becomes Michigan Road. Turn left at the traffic light at 4000 Michigan Road into the IMA grounds.

Museum
Tuesday - 11 am to 5 pm
Wednesday - 11 am to 5 pm
Thursday - 11 am to 9 pm
Friday - 11 am to 9 pm
Saturday - 11 am to 5 pm
Sunday - noon to 5 pm
Closed Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.

35th Anual Duneland Woodcarvers Show - 2011

2011-04-12T12:44:00.000-05:00

Duneland Woodcarvers Show
Woodland Park
(Oakwood Grand Hall)
2100 Willowcreek Road
Portage, Indiana, 46368.

SATURDAY
April 16, 2011
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

SUNDAY
April 17, 2011
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Spring Surprise

2011-04-11T13:48:00.002-05:00

Photograph by DH

I have no idea what these flowers are.
We found them popping open near our
driveway.

Loving the Spring Surpise!

"Hands are the exit of the spirit"

2011-04-07T18:57:00.021-05:00

Jane, blogging at World Embroideries gifted me
with this lovely Temari

A couple of days ago,
she had a photo of a new blue Temari
on her post Another Swirl Temari

Near the end of her post, she shared a link
to a video she watched and shared something said from that video,
she posted:

"Hands are the exit of the spirit."
Do you agree with that?
I don't know if I do or not... but it is very thought provoking.

Jane, ever since I read your post, I haven't been able to let go of the quote ...
what do YOU think?

and, I still cherish my temari
I find so much joy in your posts + am gobsmacked
by the variety of temari you have created

randoms

2011-04-06T19:17:00.005-05:00

Carol, blogging at
i Stitch
celebrated her 200 followers
by a giveaway .... and I was one of 3
chosen!!! woot ; )

I was delighted to choose Sew A Brown Bunny
one of
Karen's i Stitch Designs

Thx Karen!!

At Tuesday nights NANI Chapter Meeting, there was a table of
patterns to choose from - GF Kay
saw this charming La D Da design,
White Cat
c. Lori Markovic 2001
and handed it to me.

Always nice with NANI members share
their stash overflows -- don't we all know
the feeling to discover we have two copies
of the same design????

(I need to quickly stitch and pass along
this pattern to GFs Sue + Mel)

And speaking of stitching,
not much of that going on -
this left hand isn't cooperating.
Isn't quite healed enough for lengthy
stitching time.

I did get a few stitches into

this Dutch Treat tabletopper.
If I can get the q-snap balanced on the table edge
and not grasp with left hand, I can do ok.

I'll just wait another few days and try again.

Meanwhile, if you enjoy tabletoppers, don't miss
Myrna's post It's Daffodil Time!,
what a beautiful tabletopper FINISH!!!

Did you get your premium booklets
in the mail today?

A sure sign of Spring
when the Fair booklets arrive!!

April 1st: International Tatting Day

2011-04-01T00:16:00.000-05:00

Girl Tatting
Artist: Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841-1919)

Painting at the
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Philadelphia, PA USA

Today is International
Tatting Day

If I was visiting Philadelphia, I'd
swing by the museum for another look
at Renoir's Girl Tatting.

Get out your tatting supplies
(shuttle or needle tatting)
+ enjoy creating a motif!

Roll ups

2011-03-21T10:03:00.016-05:00

I've basted the area
to be stitched on the scissor holder,
have an initial ready to stitch.

This is Homespun Elegance Stitching Pocket-Plus pattern
+ pre-made items with linen areas
for stitched initials.

I have some glass buttons which are a cinnamon-pink + clear.

Need to pull out some linen for the pillow (fob or cushion).

Have the over dye fibers ready.

Better pictures can be found
HERE

This is one of the
roll ups from Nashville market.

I found a tatting book with simple pattern to
put around the pin area. In the photo, lace was added -
I was thinking to tat a couple little pieces.

Have the fibers for the linen (place for initial).

I purchased these items with holiday
gift certificates from our sons + my Mom.
I wanted to have a gift from them once finished.

Hope to finish these THIS week.

2011-03-17T01:02:00.003-05:00

The Gathering of Quilters March 18-19, 2011

2011-03-09T13:27:00.000-06:00

Heritage Quilters in Crown Point
host "The Gathering of Quilters"
March 18 - 19, 2011

Juried Quilt Show - vendors - speakers - challenges
- American Girl Doll raffle - Quilt raffle
- book + magazine sale - silent Auction
- Quilt Appraisals - trunk show - bed turning

schedule of events
speakers

Pre-register/prepay
or walk-in:
Saturday, March 19, 2011
9:00 am to 4:00 pm
$20.00.

--------------------
The Patrician Banquet Center
410 East US Highway 30
Schererville, IN 46375

The Patrician Banquet Center is located 1 mile East of US 41,
and 5.7 miles West of I-65 between Austin Ave + Cline Ave,
on the North side of US 30 (Schererville, Indiana)

Did you get yours?

2011-02-24T18:33:00.000-06:00

Aside from the fact
Pat Winter is multi talented,
generous, and creative ....

did you see her new publication?

Link Here

--------------

And am thrilled House of Stitches has the new
Stitcher's Journey book!
(yeah, I want one!)

Saw there are a couple new
Reward of Merit patterns, too.
Do you like the Wild Lilies?

Any other market favourites?

John Mellencamp Delia Live At A&E Private Sessions Sound Check

2011-02-24T14:38:00.000-06:00

I keep listening + wishing it was a single out on i-tunes (nope, not yet).

One World One Heart 2011 - winner

2011-02-18T14:52:00.000-06:00

Thx for visiting + commenting.
I've enjoyed browsing the OWOH 2011 participants list
+ found new blogs to follow along the journey.
The winner of this giveaway has been chosen:

The winner of this giveaway is N. Maria who blogs at
Knackful Knitter
Swing by her blog when you have the chance!!!

N. Maria said...
Love to be entered in the giveaway! Just look at all the comments with blogs!
Mine is http://knackfulknitter.blogspot.com

-------------------------------

My Giveaways -- drawing on February 17th

2011-02-15T07:00:00.002-06:00

Thx for all the comments + I've enjoyed browsing the blogs in OWOH 2011 ---
The winners have been selected. This giveaway is closed

I am giving away this hardcover book
please leave a comment on my OWOH post --
Link to Post HERE
by February 17th!
(non-smoking household)

Also - have this paperback book needing a new home:

If you are interested go to OWOH post
Link to post HERE.
Drawing on February 17th.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T01:25:00.001-06:00

Elizabeth Taylor Sampler

2011-02-13T16:37:00.000-06:00

Michele: I didn't have an e-mail address to contact you directly.
Here is the information:

The The Elizabeth Taylor Sampler
(previous post),
is a kit.

The Examplarery
P. O. Box 2554
Dearborn, MI 48123

The real sampler is housed
in the collections of
Winterthur Museum
Location:
5105 Kennett Pike
Winterthur, DE, 19735

My husband + I visited last Summer.
(He had travel points saved up, so we used them)
He wanted to see the trees on the grounds.
He (we) read about the variety of
trees on the estate + so we visited.

We did the 'tour' and they have
marvelous needlework there + the 17th century jacket
was on display.
What a treat.
There were several needlework samplers
on the walls - during the tour.

Anyhow, after we did the tour
+ walked thru the trees for a few hours,
we ended up at the gift shop.
DH really liked the sampler (we found the kit in the
Museum gift shop) kit + he bought it.

I still need to graph the names for the center; however,
it may be easier to just start stitching it!!!

I am guessing it can still be
ordered from The Examplarery
or Winterthur Gift Shop. Or,
your LNS may be able to help.

(Winterthur will be closed to the public
January 10-February 28, 2011,
re-opening on March 1)

Elizabeth Taylor Sampler

2011-02-11T22:44:00.002-06:00

I have so many beautiful needlework
kits ---

This kit was picked out
with my DH. He liked the trees.
I liked the fruit baskets + hearts.

I haven't graphed out the
family names for the center area.

I have decided to use our
family names - not the ones
on the pattern.

So it will be a reproduction
sampler - sort of ...

Will the Groundhog see a shadow????

2011-02-02T02:00:00.001-06:00

Bent Creek / Freebie can be found HERE

One World One Heart - Giveaway

2011-01-31T02:00:00.007-06:00

The winner of this giveaway is:

N. Maria said...
Love to be entered in the giveaway! Just look at all the comments with blogs!
Mine is http://knackfulknitter.blogspot.com

-------------------------------

One World One Heart 2011:

The Lace Reader
by Brunonia Barry

I am giving away this
hardcover book
(non smoking household)

for the One World One Heart event.

Please leave a comment
(with your e-mail address)
and your name will be included in the
drawing (winner announced February 17th)

Over the next few days,
our Event Creator and Host,

Lisa Swifka
will approve blog sites
to participate in OWOH.

She will update the list frequently.
Participant List LINK HERE

or click on link in sidebar

------------------------------------------------------------
Per Our Hostess:
"The FIFTH and final One World One Heart
will begin on SUNDAY NIGHT January 30TH
(MIDNIGHT THE END OF THE 30TH)
and run until February 17, 2011
(when winners are posted / announced).

One World One Heart is a
worldwide event for bloggers only.

It gives all those who blog a chance to meet
and mingle and form connections with those
they may not have otherwise met from all over the world.

In the past 4 years this event has grown
to over 1,000 participants
with lasting friendships
(and even one love connection)
formed along the way.

Think of it as a GIGANTIC open house
allowing you to travel
without ever leaving your home........
going from blog to blog
(in various countries)
seeing the wonder each one has created
and meeting all the fabulous people
behind those blogs.

As a bonus each blogger participant
will offer up a "door prize or prizes"....
just for dropping by,
saying hello and seeing their world.

It's really that easy."
-----------------------------------------------

I blog as "lelia" and enjoy reading, needlework + tatting.
I'm a member of
Needle Artisans of NW Ind, EGA Chapter. I'm looking forward to your
comments + links to your blogs!

Always, Lelia
U.S.A.

Stitch - n - Public Day

2011-01-29T09:09:00.001-06:00

If you are in the area,
stop in and join us!

Link to Details:
Stitch In Public Day