tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27416837215317584392024-03-13T05:50:40.773+02:00Heart in StitchesMichellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.comBlogger97125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-89424579048028949622014-04-22T21:05:00.000+02:002014-04-22T21:05:18.359+02:00A Sampler Finish and an Egg-Change Received!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello dear stitching friends, I trust you had a wonderful Easter! I am happy to say that I have my first big finish for the year :)</div>
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Two weeks ago I finished the Isabella Donald sampler from the Spring 2012 issue of the SANQ magazine. <a href="http://stitchcraftplace.blogspot.com/">Michelle in the UK</a> and I have been stitching on this piece every Tuesday evening for our 'Sampler SAL'. I just love how it turned out!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-McXEzMnHi7k/U1ayLalJk9I/AAAAAAAABoY/ijTDupwyeqs/s1600/IMG_3682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-McXEzMnHi7k/U1ayLalJk9I/AAAAAAAABoY/ijTDupwyeqs/s1600/IMG_3682.JPG" height="640" width="412" /></a></div>
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It is stitched on 28 count natural evenweave in my own choice of Madeira silk.</div>
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Here is another close up:</div>
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I really enjoyed this SAL so much - thank you Michelle, it was such fun stitching 'together'!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jZZMQl22HNo/U1ay0fVreXI/AAAAAAAABpA/NsfBs7H8yLE/s1600/IMG_3681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jZZMQl22HNo/U1ay0fVreXI/AAAAAAAABpA/NsfBs7H8yLE/s1600/IMG_3681.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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This year I decided to take part in my first ever exchange, so I joined in the fun of the Easter Egg-change hosted by <a href="http://miistitch.blogspot.com/">Mii</a>! I received a wonderful package from dear <a href="http://feelepoint.blogspot.com/">Valerie in France</a>! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tRXb1mS2eKM/U1aynWPAY-I/AAAAAAAABow/Y56OGZXGAJ0/s1600/IMG_3684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tRXb1mS2eKM/U1aynWPAY-I/AAAAAAAABow/Y56OGZXGAJ0/s1600/IMG_3684.JPG" height="361" width="400" /></a></div>
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She sent me such great goodies, here is a pic of the beautiful ornament - I just love it!</div>
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She also included my favourite chocolates - I just love Lindt!</div>
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Beautiful Easter serviettes, lavender scented fragrance sticks and the sweetest card:</div>
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Some lovely stitching goodies and ornaments, including buttons and ribbon and the cutest tape measure I have ever seen! Yes, that little hedgehog is a tape measure! I absolutely LOVE him!</div>
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Thank you for my beautiful gift Valerie, I really love it!</div>
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I sent a package to <a href="http://pansieshome.blogspot.it/">Sonia in Italy</a>. It left South Africa the day after being posted, but took quite a long time to make its way closer to her. According to the online 'track and trace' it is now ready to be delivered to her, so I really hope it reaches her soon (and safely!). I will show photos as soon as it reaches her :)</div>
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Furthermore, I have been working on my <a href="http://heartinstitches.blogspot.com/2014/03/still-stitching-along.html">Bambu Hardanger SAL</a> and I still have a lot to do before the next 'step' becomes available on the first of May. I also look forward to resuming work on <a href="http://heartinstitches.blogspot.com/2014/03/still-stitching-along.html">Celebration Sampler</a> now that Isabella Donald is complete.</div>
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That's it for now! Enjoy the rest of the week and Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-91318514712583279212014-03-27T21:34:00.000+02:002014-03-27T21:34:14.197+02:00Still Stitching Along!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello stitching friends! It has been so long since my last stitching update - we have had such internet connectivity problems over the past few months - I just hope this post makes it safely into blogland! </div>
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It has cooled down a bit here in Cape Town over the past few weeks and we are definitely moving into Autumn! There is even a slight chill in the air in the evenings and we have had some rain - such a relief after a terribly hot summer!</div>
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Even though I haven't been blogging I have been stitching! Michelle from <a href="http://stitchcraftplace.blogspot.com/">StitchCraft Place</a> and I have been enjoying our Tuesday evening SAL every week! We are stitching the Isabella Donald sampler from the Spring 2012 issue of the SANQ magazine.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g-4njK_CjJk/UzRxFm_L85I/AAAAAAAABm0/vn6zTd-mQU4/s1600/IMG_3646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g-4njK_CjJk/UzRxFm_L85I/AAAAAAAABm0/vn6zTd-mQU4/s1600/IMG_3646.JPG" height="640" width="520" /></a></div>
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I have substituted the charted colours with my own choice of Madeira silk and I just love how it's turning out!</div>
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I'm quite satisfied with my progress and hope to have a sampler finish in a few weeks :)</div>
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Here is another close up, this band was the most time consuming section of the sampler so far, but looks lovely and the touch of dark blue silk looks just beautiful on the sampler:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HKu8tC907zE/UzRxrGe7NBI/AAAAAAAABnM/_tCuRxgPTck/s1600/IMG_3644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HKu8tC907zE/UzRxrGe7NBI/AAAAAAAABnM/_tCuRxgPTck/s1600/IMG_3644.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I have also been working on the 'Bambu by Mamen' SAL as hosted by Ticoeur on her <a href="http://ticoeur.forumactif.com/">forum</a>. New steps become available twice a month and I always look forward to see which part we'll be stitching next!</div>
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A closer view of some of the details:<br />
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Work on my Celebration Sampler from Just Cross Stitch Magazine has slowed down over the past few weeks, but I do have an update to share:<br />
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I can't wait to get back to this sampler - I just love working on it!</div>
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I am also working on a few Easter ornaments to be sent as gifts, so I can't show them yet! I am taking part in the Easter Egg-change hosted by <a href="http://miistitch.blogspot.com/">Mii Stitch</a>. This is my first exchange and I'm so excited to take part!</div>
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Well, that's my stitchy update for now! </div>
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Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-64446182345230896052014-02-06T16:35:00.000+02:002014-02-06T16:35:35.891+02:00SAL Start and HAL Progress! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello stitching friends! Oh my, it has been so hot over the past few weeks, I can't wait for the first signs of Autumn, even though I know how hot February and March can be! Last week there were a few evenings that were too hot to do anything, even stitch, followed by nights that were too hot to sleep, leaving everyone feeling absolutely drained. On to more pleasant things - stitching!</div>
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Tuesday night was the start of the private SAL <a href="http://stitchcraftplace.blogspot.com/">Michelle</a> and I are having. Every Tuesday night we will be stitching on the Isabella Donald sampler featured in the Spring 2012 issue of the SANQ magazine. Here is my start: </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4y_hADD3aEo/UvOTXzhpNVI/AAAAAAAABlE/-PXbFOr8dgw/s1600/IMG_3522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4y_hADD3aEo/UvOTXzhpNVI/AAAAAAAABlE/-PXbFOr8dgw/s1600/IMG_3522.JPG" height="286" width="400" /></a></div>
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The design is actually charted in grey and soft purples, but that does not suit my decor, so I changed it completely! It is not a reproduction sampler, but compiled from different samplers from the same era. Some of the inspirational samplers are shown in the magazine and I really liked the colours of the 1825 Kildare School Sampler. I was fortunate enough to have some Madeira silks in the deep red, gold and blue and soft green shades. I am stitching it on a natural 28 count evenweave and I'm very satisfied with the way the silks look on the fabric.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-KtUMQ7Kck/UvOTjQubI1I/AAAAAAAABlM/QJWqq1PuLZs/s1600/IMG_3427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-KtUMQ7Kck/UvOTjQubI1I/AAAAAAAABlM/QJWqq1PuLZs/s1600/IMG_3427.JPG" height="398" width="400" /></a></div>
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I also managed to do quite a bit on the Bambu HAL (hardanger-a-long) by Mamen and I'm actually a bit ahead of the steps set out for the group! Here is my progress:<br />
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Here is a slightly closer view - I love the combination of soft pinks and ecru!<br />
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At least the hot weather is good for one thing - my roses just keep on flourishing! Here is a picture of a beautiful soft pink rose - it also has a lovely delicate fragrance!<br />
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That's it for now! It's almost Friday - have a good weekend and Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-70492646222008707092014-01-12T17:20:00.000+02:002014-01-12T17:20:32.095+02:00Celebration Sampler Progress and a SAL!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello dear blogging friends, I hope the first few days of 2014 have been treating you well! I am so happy to have some stitching to share with you in my first post of the year. I have made a little progress on the Celebration Sampler, which was featured in the Just Cross Stitch Magazine in 2013. </div>
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Look at this lovely section of the sampler, I was even brave enough to stitch '2014' in the space for the year - I will definitely have to persevere with this piece :) </div>
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Here is my progress so far, the words look a bit funny at the moment, but will make more sense once I put more stitches in it!</div>
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It is such a pleasure to stitch, I am really enjoying it - here is a close up of the Bargello section - always so much fun to stitch!</div>
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This year I decided to join a SAL for a beautiful Hardanger piece by <a href="http://carpacar.blogspot.com/">Mamen</a>, which is kindly being hosted by <a href="http://ticoeur.forumactif.com/">Ticoeur</a> on her forum. The piece is called 'Bambu' and I'm stitching it on 28ct antique white Quaker cloth in DMC perle thread. Here you can see my first step and the threads that I'm using - I decided to break away from 'tone on tone' Hardanger stitching and I'm having great fun with the lovely pinks! </div>
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I am also starting another SAL on the 1st of February with my dear friend <a href="http://stitchcraftplace.blogspot.com/">Michelle</a> from the UK. There is a lovely sampler in the Sampler and Antique Needlework Magazine (SANQ) that we both want to stitch - I'm really looking forward to our SAL!</div>
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In other needlework news, I have been working on a quilt! My cousin in Oregon had the most precious baby boy last year and I am making a quilt for him - the quilt top is made and the basting is done, now I have to machine quilt it. I will show photos in a few weeks (after they have received it), since they haven't seen any photos yet - only snippets of fabric!</div>
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Well, that's it for now!</div>
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Have a great week and Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-18399478262866150772013-12-30T23:44:00.000+02:002013-12-30T23:49:23.203+02:00Last Christmas Stitches for 2013 and a Sampler Start! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello stitching and blogging friends - I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! Here are my last Christmas stitches for 2013, these beautiful postcard style pieces were featured in a World of Cross Stitching Magazine. I did not manage to do the finishing in time for Christmas as they turned out to be very time consuming to stitch, with lots of quarter stitches and back stitching.</div>
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They are stitched on 28ct antique white Jubilee in DMC stranded cotton.<br />
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Look at the lovely detail on these cards - I certainly have to do the finishing so that they can be proudly displayed next Christmas :)</div>
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I also have (another) new start - I decided not to wait for the new year to start this piece! It is called Celebration Sampler and is featured in the Just Cross Stitch Magazine as part of their 30th anniversary this year - it is a six part sampler and runs over a few issues. I'm stitching it on antique white 27ct Linda in DMC threads.</div>
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It does not look like much now, but it will be a beautiful band sampler with some specialty stitches. I am really enjoying this project so far, even if I still have to chart my name into the blank space between the bands - my name and surname just won't fit into the allotted space - the sampler is quite narrow!</div>
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We have been 'enjoying' a typical hot, sunny South African summer, which means my roses are in full bloom. I would like to end my last post of 2013 with some photos of one of my favourite roses from my garden. It is called 'Blue Bayou' and has the most beautiful silver lilac flowers.</div>
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Sometimes the beauty of a single bloom is simply amazing :)</div>
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Well, that's it for 2013! Wishing everyone a wonderful New Year!</div>
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Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-71711742265346939882013-11-26T17:03:00.000+02:002013-11-26T17:03:22.156+02:00A Small Finish and a Large Start!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Good day stitching friends! I have been getting into the Christmas spirit with some ornament stitching! This piece by Homespun Elegance is featured in the 2013 Just Cross Stitch Ornament Issue. It caught my eye immediately! It is called 'Majestic Bird' and I stitched it in DMC colour variations (the red) and Nina's threads (the green). The bird is supposed to have a crown charm in his beak, which I changed to some stitched holly and ivy. It is stitched on 28ct self-dyed evenweave and is finished as a simple hanging ornament, backed with the green fabric pictured. </div>
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I have stitched some other ornaments from the 2013 JCS Ornament Issue, but I still need to do the finishing :) </div>
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I also have a rather large start to share. I have been wanting to stitch one of Heaven and Earth Designs Christmas ornaments for a while and finally decided to stitch 'Not a Creature was Stirring' by Donna Gelsinger. It does not look like much yet, but I am really enjoying it! I am stitching it 2 over 2 on 28ct parchment evenweave, so it won't be ornament size, but rather a size more suited to framing.</div>
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Here is what the painting looks like, isn't it beautiful?</div>
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I have been spoiled by Michelle from <a href="http://stitchcraftplace.blogspot.com/">StitchCraft Place</a> again - this time with a Christmas gift! She sent me a gorgeous Christmas card, some limited edition sampler thread from The Gentle Art and some special Christmas tea. Thank you Michelle!<br />
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That is it for today, enjoy the rest of the week and Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
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<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-25497740658919787842013-11-19T22:17:00.000+02:002013-11-19T22:17:06.986+02:00A Lovely Gift Received!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello dear blogging friends! Oh my, has it really been that long since my previous post? I trust you are all keeping well! I am slowly winding down from a very, very busy year and I'm so happy to be blogging again.</div>
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Last month I received such a wonderful surprise from my dear friend Michelle over at <a href="http://stitchcraftplace.blogspot.com/">Michelle's Stitchcraft Place</a> - she sent me a lovely gift for my birthday! Look at the pretty birthday card:</div>
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She sent me a <i>Tralala Collection</i> chart, a piece of 32ct linen and the sweetest little notebook:</div>
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Here is a close up of the chart - it is so cute and definitely on my 'to do' list for next year! Thank you so much Michelle, I absolutely love the gift!</div>
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Since my last blog post the seasons have been changing! We had a very long, cold, wet winter this year, but Spring has finally arrived (despite some heavy rainfall this past weekend and more rain predicted for this week!) and the garden is coming to life. Here is a picture of one of the first roses to bloom - in the background you can see the first sweet peas of the season:<br />
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Here is a close up of some of the sweet peas - the scent is just heavenly!</div>
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I have not been able to stitch as much as I would have liked to over the past few months, but did manage a few small finishes (and perhaps a large start!), as well as a few other projects. I will share some pics soon!</div>
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Enjoy the rest of the week and Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-7761666868981515672013-07-03T00:03:00.000+02:002013-07-03T00:03:35.250+02:00Stunning Stumpwork!<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-ZA">Good
day blogging friends! Oh my, has it
really been that long since my last post?
I am certainly not keeping up with my goal to blog more often this year.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-ZA">Winter has really set in here in Cape Town
and with it an array of colds and flu!
DH, my mom and the in-laws have all been ill and I have had flu
twice! I hope I have now built up enough
resistance for the rest of the year!</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-ZA">It has been slow going on the stitching
front; I have been working on a few gifts and a few small items, but have
nothing to share at the moment. Since I
don’t have any new work to show, I decided to share some of the Stumpwork
pieces my mom did years ago.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-ZA">For those of you not familiar with
Stumpwork, here is a very brief explanation:</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-ZA">Stumpwork is a style of embroidery where
the objects (usually flowers, fruit and animals, but sometimes even people!)
are raised from the surface of the foundation fabric in order to create a three
dimensional effect. Stumpwork originated between 1640 - 1700 and appears as if it was originally utilized in Biblical embroideries in Europe, it was later done by young girls in England as part of their education. Stumpwork often makes use of wire to add dimension - usually to
leaves, petals and wings. Padding is
also frequently used, as well as felt which is then covered in
embroidery stitches. One of the most
interesting things about Stumpwork is the complete disregard for scale – a
single berry can be larger than a squirrel! Thus, Stumpwork is technically raised work, whereby figures and padded objects, as well as other loose objects are stitched onto a main fabric which has been prepared with a 'base' of surface embroidery.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-ZA">Now, on to some examples -this piece is
called ‘Nature’s Circle’. My mom
stitched this piece in 1999, after which she presented classes on the technique
on behalf of the designer. It was a very
proud moment when three of her students won 1<sup>st</sup>, 2<sup>nd</sup> and
3<sup>rd</sup> prize in a national embroidery competition (the theme for that
year was Stumpwork). Let me tell you,
the first prize winner’s work was so perfect, it looked as if it was done by
machine!</span></div>
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Here is a closeup of some cherries with a cute bee in the background - you can see the stems and some of the leaves are stitched onto the background fabric, while some of the leaves and other objects are 'raised', creating the distinctive three dimensional effect. I also just love the spiderweb :) (This is a framed piece so I had to take the photos through the glass - not always easy!)<br />
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A closeup of some acorns with tiny bees in the background:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3gqd0Wphn0w/UdM9m3E1V1I/AAAAAAAABOs/dp-AAFxQ8vg/s480/IMG_3237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3gqd0Wphn0w/UdM9m3E1V1I/AAAAAAAABOs/dp-AAFxQ8vg/s400/IMG_3237.JPG" width="323" /></a></div>
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The squirrel is definitely one of my favourites! I just love the fluffy tail :) Some juicy oranges are pictured in the background and as always, there is a little critter sneaking about!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hdeUKtG75yU/UdM9mx8YSRI/AAAAAAAABOw/xpyZCBzX5AM/s480/IMG_3240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hdeUKtG75yU/UdM9mx8YSRI/AAAAAAAABOw/xpyZCBzX5AM/s400/IMG_3240.JPG" width="371" /></a></div>
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Here are some examples from an unframed piece my mom designed and used as a teaching aid - please note that the piece is not finished, so all the elements are not added and completed! The raspberries are so beautiful and mr owl so cute - look at the little spider dangling from the branch (I do like the critters)!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pmcGJEjrkNo/UdM9uKFCfkI/AAAAAAAABO8/YJoH5GA35eY/s640/256_0107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pmcGJEjrkNo/UdM9uKFCfkI/AAAAAAAABO8/YJoH5GA35eY/s400/256_0107.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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More examples of cherries and a dragonfly with not yet completed wings!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lpTqTkYtOKI/UdM9ubtOY5I/AAAAAAAABPA/59DtLMDQQcE/s640/256_01071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lpTqTkYtOKI/UdM9ubtOY5I/AAAAAAAABPA/59DtLMDQQcE/s400/256_01071.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-ZA">Here are some pics of gorgeous stumpwork
fuchsias (by the same designer) which my mom embroidered. It is stitched in Pearsall's silk and was published in a
local craft magazine. Unfortunately we
had to part with the actual piece! (I had to take the photos from the magazine, so the quality isn't too great.)</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ff63cvQg5qw/UdM97k_PxXI/AAAAAAAABPM/kuktVkh_ves/s640/IMG_3261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ff63cvQg5qw/UdM97k_PxXI/AAAAAAAABPM/kuktVkh_ves/s400/IMG_3261.JPG" width="310" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_z8tJOzd59c/UdM98AsN1gI/AAAAAAAABPY/9Qx4ElGZAl0/s640/IMG_3266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_z8tJOzd59c/UdM98AsN1gI/AAAAAAAABPY/9Qx4ElGZAl0/s400/IMG_3266.JPG" width="262" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-ZA" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-ZA; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Some
of the photos of this piece were also featured in a little booklet published by
the same magazine:</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1xQCE4456jY/UdM98FFHIqI/AAAAAAAABPU/KLcY6Y7hTB0/s640/IMG_3267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1xQCE4456jY/UdM98FFHIqI/AAAAAAAABPU/KLcY6Y7hTB0/s320/IMG_3267.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-ZA">Can you believe that, despite having a
teacher in the house, I have never tried my hand at stumpwork?</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-ZA">If you are interested in this beautiful and
rewarding, old embroidery technique, here are some wonderful books on the
subject. These books by Jane Nicholas
are probably the definitive modern guide to the subject, providing a detailed
history, instructions and patterns:</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D3gZeuVOSNw/UdM-Ag00vHI/AAAAAAAABPk/DHVrxop9Un8/s640/IMG_3270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D3gZeuVOSNw/UdM-Ag00vHI/AAAAAAAABPk/DHVrxop9Un8/s400/IMG_3270.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here is an example of some of the smaller projects in the books - perfect for beginners and so pretty! The pomegranate, rose and strawberries in the first picture work so well together and I just love that big bushy thistle in the second picture!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JUwStn7keNQ/UdM-IKFP07I/AAAAAAAABPs/rRljsPybDj8/s640/256_01072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JUwStn7keNQ/UdM-IKFP07I/AAAAAAAABPs/rRljsPybDj8/s400/256_01072.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-ZA">If you love flowers, this book by Helan
Pearce has some lovely floral designs:</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-21ti3Ny42sc/UdM-IavzaHI/AAAAAAAABPw/7LT7vziNPyE/s640/IMG_3275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-21ti3Ny42sc/UdM-IavzaHI/AAAAAAAABPw/7LT7vziNPyE/s400/IMG_3275.JPG" width="372" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-ZA">I also know that some of the older
Embroidery and Cross Stitch magazines (their name has since changed) featured
stumpwork projects.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-ZA">Well, that was a really long post for
me! Hopefully I will be back soon with
some stitchy updates!<a href="" name="_GoBack"></a></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-ZA">Until next time - Happy Stitching!</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-ZA"><i>Michelle</i></span></div>
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<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-37689360132928804952013-04-28T17:18:00.001+02:002013-04-28T17:18:33.758+02:00A New Chart and Some Old Embroidery!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello dear stitching friends! We have been enjoying the last few days of summer and finally there is a bit of a chill in the air in the evenings. Autumn should be arriving soon and with it perfect stitching weather :)</div>
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I am happy to share with you a new cross stitch chart by Lady Lexi Designs! This design is called 'Primitive Abundance' and is available as an instant download in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/LadyLexiDesigns">Etsy Store</a>. I have been admiring the primitive style for a long time and decided to add some of my favourite element to the design, including some stags, birds and sampler elements.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wK0jkaw0bTg/UX03pcmXKYI/AAAAAAAABLg/IoXpPIeDlek/s1600/IMG_3149-003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="333" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wK0jkaw0bTg/UX03pcmXKYI/AAAAAAAABLg/IoXpPIeDlek/s400/IMG_3149-003.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The model is stitched on a light mocha 28ct evenweave in DMC threads and is finished as a pillow. The pillow is trimmed with some vintage lace and buttons. I had such fun with this - here are a few more close ups:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NrwIeZOLWHA/UX03sJylYxI/AAAAAAAABLo/tq7zkBB5BfI/s1600/249_26041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NrwIeZOLWHA/UX03sJylYxI/AAAAAAAABLo/tq7zkBB5BfI/s400/249_26041.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I don't have much other stitching to show, but I did find this lovely brooch in a basket of other crafting goodies. My mom made some of these ribbon embroidery brooches a few years ago (about fifteen years ago!) - they were all the rage back then! This must be the last one we still have and I was so happy to find it!</div>
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It is stitched on blue satin and features woven ribbon roses, accented with french knots. The only pity is that the roses are flattened from being stored under craft 'stuff' for so long - not a good way to preserve ribbon embroidery! </div>
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I just love the brooch setting - it is so antique looking, yet not too bold. This little find has inspired me to take up some ribbon embroidery again - if I can ever find the time :)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6p7xVk86TXo/UX030jKuU1I/AAAAAAAABLw/5Ga2UsnWJow/s1600/IMG_3176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6p7xVk86TXo/UX030jKuU1I/AAAAAAAABLw/5Ga2UsnWJow/s400/IMG_3176.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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On a different note - I would like to thank dear <a href="http://anniebebop.blogspot.com/">Annie</a> for thinking of me and sending me a package a few months ago. Sadly the package never arrived, but you can have a look at the beautiful gift on <a href="http://anniebebop.blogspot.com/2013/03/good-luck-lady-lexi.html">her blog</a> - it is personalized for Lady Lexi Designs! Thank you Annie, I appreciate it so much and I am so sad that my lovely gift didn't make it safely home. </div>
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That's about it for now!<br />
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Happy Stitching<br />
<i>Michelle</i>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-1254839834386441882013-03-28T21:05:00.000+02:002013-03-28T21:05:55.547+02:00An Update for March!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello blogging friends! Has it really been a month since my last post? I have been SO busy these past few weeks, but I do have a small update for March :) </div>
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I started this beautiful 'medium size' project by <a href="http://www.jardinprive.com/">Jardin Prive</a> a few weeks ago - it is called 'Patchwork Printems' and I am stitching it on antique white 28ct evenweave in DMC stranded cotton. I just love working on this lovely, bright Spring piece, even though our Autumn should be arriving soon - today we had one of our first really cool days of the season :)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AMWorqTm3cs/UVSG1OshUpI/AAAAAAAABKI/1ZOiQEW2XmU/s1600/IMG_3072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AMWorqTm3cs/UVSG1OshUpI/AAAAAAAABKI/1ZOiQEW2XmU/s400/IMG_3072.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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It is such fun stitching these small motifs! Look at those adorable little pink sheep!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q_8ZULrpt5o/UVSG0glLEGI/AAAAAAAABKE/wkZdAH0rv9Y/s1600/IMG_3078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q_8ZULrpt5o/UVSG0glLEGI/AAAAAAAABKE/wkZdAH0rv9Y/s400/IMG_3078.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I have also managed to do some finishing on pieces that I stitched last year. This little cutie is also by <a href="http://www.jardinprive.com/">Jardin Prive</a> (yes, I do love Jardin Prive designs), and is called 'Trop chouette'. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b9XM9j9Qr-Q/UVSG8zC96KI/AAAAAAAABKU/DM2nyWLUALo/s1600/IMG_3050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b9XM9j9Qr-Q/UVSG8zC96KI/AAAAAAAABKU/DM2nyWLUALo/s400/IMG_3050.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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It is stitched on self-dyed 28ct evenweave in DMC stranded cotton and finished as a little pillow ornament. I just love this design - this little owl at the end is my favourite!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MuYsQTu-Icw/UVSG9CIa1HI/AAAAAAAABKY/cHqErD84wWE/s1600/IMG_3052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MuYsQTu-Icw/UVSG9CIa1HI/AAAAAAAABKY/cHqErD84wWE/s400/IMG_3052.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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This beautiful piece by LHN is called 'Summer Splendor' and is stitched on self-dyed 28ct evenweave in DMC stranded cotton and is finished as a 'framed' pillow. I found this patchwork fabric for finishing the pillow recently and it was just the perfect colour. I love how this piece turned out - the colours are so gorgeous in person!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QvhYhoQ5jGQ/UVSG-QYnzKI/AAAAAAAABKk/TGKIqzSe5ts/s1600/IMG_3059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QvhYhoQ5jGQ/UVSG-QYnzKI/AAAAAAAABKk/TGKIqzSe5ts/s400/IMG_3059.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here are some close ups of the lovely motifs:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tVgrWwRAlDE/UVSHMTnyOhI/AAAAAAAABKs/Z_6CknTuH5g/s1600/IMG_3057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tVgrWwRAlDE/UVSHMTnyOhI/AAAAAAAABKs/Z_6CknTuH5g/s400/IMG_3057.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9ou5P6cjHAs/UVSHMa6A4uI/AAAAAAAABKw/pkWQ68swf2A/s1600/IMG_3058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9ou5P6cjHAs/UVSHMa6A4uI/AAAAAAAABKw/pkWQ68swf2A/s400/IMG_3058.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I was also so delighted to receive feedback on my little <a href="http://heartinstitches.blogspot.com/2013/01/valentine-stitching-and-freebie.html">Valentine Freebie</a>! Joan (from <a href="http://www.stitchingsquad.blogspot.com/">Stitching Squad</a>) and Adri (from <a href="http://www.x-crossroads-x.blogspot.com/">Crossroads</a>) sent me pictures of their lovely finishes.</div>
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Here is <a href="http://www.stitchingsquad.blogspot.com/">Joan</a>'s finish - I just love it on the check fabric!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2bER-s2jXRQ/UVSHaIYofhI/AAAAAAAABLE/D25J4rMNwSM/s1600/TrueLoveJoan.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2bER-s2jXRQ/UVSHaIYofhI/AAAAAAAABLE/D25J4rMNwSM/s400/TrueLoveJoan.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Here is <a href="http://www.x-crossroads-x.blogspot.com/">Adri's</a> finish - the button in the middle gives such a beautiful effect!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VmtRateQShg/UVSHe4E_clI/AAAAAAAABLM/v9ZeW6ORvvo/s1600/TrueLoveAdri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VmtRateQShg/UVSHe4E_clI/AAAAAAAABLM/v9ZeW6ORvvo/s320/TrueLoveAdri.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Thank you Joan and Adri for sharing your finishes - I am so happy to see your lovely work!</div>
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On a not so nice note - I am considering turning the word verification back on for the comment section of my blog - I have been getting a lot of spam and that takes away from the enjoyment of blogging. Have you had similar problems? I have been going without word verification for a while and never had problems, but now it suddenly got quite bad. I know it is not so pleasant to leave comments on a word verification blog, but it does seem like one of the only ways to keep our blogs 'clean' - I will see what happens on this post and then decide. </div>
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On to a more pleasant topic - I would like to wish everyone a very Happy and Peaceful Easter spent with loved ones! Have you stocked up on your hot cross buns and pickled fish for your Good Friday meals and exchanged some chocolate Easter eggs or bunnies?</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9mgFhK3rSxw/UVSHUHOGEaI/AAAAAAAABK8/zZB68qOSK7o/s1600/Easter+Postcard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9mgFhK3rSxw/UVSHUHOGEaI/AAAAAAAABK8/zZB68qOSK7o/s400/Easter+Postcard.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>
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I hope to be back with a stitchy update a little bit sooner next time :)</div>
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Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
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<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-15092429114450127732013-02-28T23:19:00.000+02:002013-02-28T23:19:25.655+02:00Michelle meets Michelle!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello dear blogging friends! A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting up with <a href="http://stitchcraftplace.blogspot.com/">Michelle</a> from the UK! Michelle and her husband and son were visiting family right here in Cape Town! Hubby and I met up with Michelle and her hubby for coffee and we had such a great time. We have so much in common, it is actually quite weird :)</div>
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As you can imagine, when stitchers meet, stitchy gifts are exchanged! Here is the gift I put together for Michelle - since I know she is a huge Cath Kidston fan I gave my gift in a beautiful Cath Kidston style box and I decided to stick with a pink and blue theme.</div>
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Here is a close up of some of the items - some pretty fabric, ric-rac and beads. </div>
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I was so lucky to find a pack of Cath Kidston tissues to include with the gift :) I also included some ribbon, overdyed thread and a little note book.</div>
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I made these counting/marking pins and scissors fob to match the sweet floral scissors.</div>
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Here are some more handmade goodies - a lavender pillow and a cute little hanging ornament - I love this sweet little design - it is a freebie by <a href="http://perelles.canalblog.com/archives/2011/05/25/21181609.html">Le Chalet des Perelles</a>! Also included are some 'made with love' charms.</div>
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Michelle also spoilt me with a lovely red, white and blue UK themed gift, which came in a great 'London Bus' bag. The gift included two very useful size wooden hoops (great for needle painting, etc), a book of flower motifs by Jane Greenoff (signed by the author, I might add!), a tin full of goodies and the sweetest 'sew glad we're friends' pillow!<br />
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Here is a closeup of the pillow - I love the beaded edging and look at that beautiful lace trim!</div>
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The tin was packed with stitchy goodies, including a covered tape measure, fabric, thread, ribbon and another tin.<br />
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The sweet little tin was filled with buttons - such a great idea! Thank you Michelle for my lovely gift!</div>
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Here is a pic of the two of us - UK Michelle in the black and white and me in the blue.</div>
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It was so great meeting a fellow blogger - I do hope they come to Cape Town for another holiday in the not too distant future! You can click on over to <a href="http://stitchcraftplace.blogspot.com/">Michelle's blog</a> to see her holiday pics.</div>
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That's it for now - I have a lot of catching up to do on your lovely blogs over the weekend! I also have a new start - a lovely design by Jardin Prive - which I will share soon.<br />
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Have a great weekend and Happy Stitching!<br />
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<i>Michelle</i>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-4659226636486910532013-02-08T17:19:00.001+02:002013-02-08T17:19:50.636+02:00Ribbon Embroidery and LOVE stitches!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello dear stitching friends and a warm welcome to my new followers - it is wonderful to have you here! I don't have too much new stitching to share so I thought I would show you a piece of ribbon embroidery I did a few years ago. This beautiful piece was featured in an Embroidery & Cross Stitch magazine and is designed by Helen Dafter (if I recall correctly!)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GCHp5XuZ3pI/URUQ08OXoXI/AAAAAAAABHU/o0Mb5O3cN8Y/s1600/IMG_2965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GCHp5XuZ3pI/URUQ08OXoXI/AAAAAAAABHU/o0Mb5O3cN8Y/s400/IMG_2965.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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It is stitched on Dupion silk, which I coloured a very pale shade of green. The broad pink silk ribbon is variegated - so beautiful!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LWnEKF61Nig/URUQ6gGxy9I/AAAAAAAABHc/iYXnTBr5SWk/s1600/IMG_2964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LWnEKF61Nig/URUQ6gGxy9I/AAAAAAAABHc/iYXnTBr5SWk/s400/IMG_2964.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Look at this cute little spider - I think he is my favourite part of the design :)</div>
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The colours in this piece are truly beautiful, a perfect Spring/Summer piece - and believe me - it has been hot here! </div>
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I also love the clean lines of this design - definitely one of my favourite stitched pieces! Here is the 'full picture':<br />
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On the cross stitching front, I have been working on a little gift for a friend, so I can't show that yet and I have also designed another chart with a 'Love' theme. This piece is called 'Hanging LOVE' and the ePattern is available in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/LadyLexiDesigns?ele=shop_open&order=date_desc&page=1">Etsy store</a>.</div>
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I had a lot of fun with this one and really love the bright pink colours, it is now proudly on display for Valentine's day!</div>
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In other stitchy news - I am very excited to be meeting up with Michelle (<a href="http://stitchcraftplace.blogspot.com/">StitchCraft Place</a>) from the UK next week! She is here in Cape Town visiting family and I just can't wait to meet her! See you next week Michelle :)</div>
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That's it for now - have a wonderful weekend and Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-72828969724994895922013-01-24T21:08:00.000+02:002019-10-09T15:55:51.083+02:00Valentine Stitching and a Freebie!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello dear stitching friends! Can you believe that there are only a few days remaining of the first month of the new year? And what have I been up to these past few weeks? Well, I have a big announcement to make - after years of 'playing' around with designing, making sketches and dreaming of creating more of my own designs I am finally doing it! </div>
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I am happy to announce the launch of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lady Lexi Designs</span><i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i>with this 'Be My Valentine' design! The ePattern is available in my new little <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/LadyLexiDesigns">Etsy Shop</a> in pdf format!</div>
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But how can I launch a shop without a little gift to my friends? Here is a 'True Love' freebie for Valentine's day - I finished it as a long pillow with red check fabric and it is trimmed with cotton lace, a red ribbon and a cute little heart charm.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dL1oCt442Y0/UQF_xYki7bI/AAAAAAAABGE/sU99Jz66iRw/s1600/IMG_2893-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dL1oCt442Y0/UQF_xYki7bI/AAAAAAAABGE/sU99Jz66iRw/s400/IMG_2893-001.JPG" width="295" /></a></div>
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I used DMC 321 for this piece, but you can choose which ever fibers you like :) If you have any trouble saving the chart, or if you would like me to send it to you directly, please <a href="mailto:ladylexidesigns@gmail.com">email</a> me.</div>
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If you do stitch one of my designs, please feel free to <a href="mailto:ladylexidesigns@gmail.com">email me</a> some pictures - I would love to see your finishes! You might also be wondering where the name 'Lady Lexi Designs' comes from? For regular readers of my blog - you are right - it is named after my dog Lexi, who at almost two years old, is a real lady and also my sweet 'baby'!</div>
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Well, that's it for now - I hope you enjoy my designs :)<br />
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Enjoy the remainder of the week and Happy Stitching!<br />
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<i>Michelle</i>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-68198409786084892422013-01-08T16:39:00.000+02:002013-01-08T16:39:25.262+02:00Last Gifts to Arrive!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello my dear stitching friends and a warm welcome to my new followers! The last of my Christmas packages finally arrived in the new year! This gift was sent to <a href="http://leealbrecht.blogspot.com/">Lee</a> in Brazil and included quite a few handmade gifts, as well as some Christmas labels, Christmas themed mini pegs, a souvenir teaspoon of South Africa and a Christmas card: </div>
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I stitched this Christmas tree for Lee - it is a segment from 'Vintage Christmas' by Country Cottage Needleworks and finished as a hanging pillow ornament (also shown in a <a href="http://heartinstitches.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-ornaments-and-more-needle.html">previous post</a>):</div>
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The design for this needle painted pinkeep is from Trish Burr's book Needle Painting Embroidery: Fresh Ideas for Beginners and is backed with the pictured fabric (also shown in a <a href="http://heartinstitches.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-ornaments-and-more-needle.html">previous post</a>):</div>
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This gorgeous beaded doily was made by my mom especially for Lee! The work is so delicate and I just love the 'pink-gold' colour of the beads! Thank you mom for making this gift for my friend!<br />
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Here is a pic of all the handmade gifts:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SilWS-LIjdY/UOwnGYaj0BI/AAAAAAAABFI/71ny5K8RPl8/s1600/IMG_2488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SilWS-LIjdY/UOwnGYaj0BI/AAAAAAAABFI/71ny5K8RPl8/s400/IMG_2488.JPG" width="287" /></a></div>
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I also included a little gift for Larissa. She is a student at Lee's embroidery school and was kind enough to <a href="http://heartinstitches.blogspot.com/2012/06/my-internet-lives-again.html">send me a gift last year</a>. Larissa also received some handmade gifts, Christmas labels, Christmas themed mini pegs and a Christmas card:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WUqHDBVzXhQ/UOwnRyN2dAI/AAAAAAAABFU/Ye6ml65Xda0/s1600/IMG_2452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="335" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WUqHDBVzXhQ/UOwnRyN2dAI/AAAAAAAABFU/Ye6ml65Xda0/s400/IMG_2452.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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This sweet little 'Prancer' is by JBW designs and is stitched on 28ct blue linen and finished as a hanging pillow ornament - such a cutie!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wTHSxRURjQc/UOwngDoRt_I/AAAAAAAABFk/NBlXclO2y_M/s1600/IMG_2399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wTHSxRURjQc/UOwngDoRt_I/AAAAAAAABFk/NBlXclO2y_M/s400/IMG_2399.JPG" width="397" /></a></div>
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I also made these counting/marking pins and matching scissors fob for Larissa - I hope she likes them!</div>
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Well, that 'wraps up' the Christmas gifts for last year - I am always so relieved when all the packages arrive safely at their new homes :)</div>
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Enjoy the rest of the week and Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-29531335822037567062013-01-04T23:21:00.000+02:002013-01-04T23:21:05.233+02:00The Last Stitches of 2012 and the First Stitches of 2013!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello dear stitching friends - I hope you have been enjoying the first few days of 2013! I would like to share the last stitchy finishes of 2012 with you. My mom and I finished <a href="http://heartinstitches.blogspot.com/2012/12/an-advent-calendar-start-and-gift-for.html">our stitching</a> on The Fairytale Advent Calender by <a href="http://thelittlestitcher.blogspot.nl/">The Little Stitcher</a> before the end of the year! This was such a fun stitch - here are some pics:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t5s3sKjWWVc/UOdBcWVTnjI/AAAAAAAABD4/8HXkI15JrbM/s1600/234_0401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t5s3sKjWWVc/UOdBcWVTnjI/AAAAAAAABD4/8HXkI15JrbM/s400/234_0401.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The backstitching is also complete and they are now ready to be finished into little hanging pillow ornaments.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cMllaz1lF6U/UOdBePDANqI/AAAAAAAABEA/0AyMmjvE9_k/s1600/234_04011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cMllaz1lF6U/UOdBePDANqI/AAAAAAAABEA/0AyMmjvE9_k/s400/234_04011.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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They are stitched on self-dyed 28ct evenweave in the recommended DMC threads.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WQn_jvxw3n0/UOdBhUvUQ6I/AAAAAAAABEI/fXYpHobGtPg/s1600/234_04012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WQn_jvxw3n0/UOdBhUvUQ6I/AAAAAAAABEI/fXYpHobGtPg/s400/234_04012.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Such a lovely quick stitch - I have been trying to decide which one is my favourite - I do love the reindeer and sleigh motif (23)!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LcJ46ZlIfeY/UOdBl6sqTkI/AAAAAAAABEQ/4l5STvWkVy8/s1600/234_04013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LcJ46ZlIfeY/UOdBl6sqTkI/AAAAAAAABEQ/4l5STvWkVy8/s400/234_04013.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I have really been enjoying the Christmas stitching (I have a few stitched ornaments from last year that still need finishing!) and decided to kick the year off with an 'Ornament for January'. Here is a pic of my first few stitches of 2013 - hopefully I will be able to share the finish soon :)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gj5si1rvFmQ/UOdBuMJMJ3I/AAAAAAAABEY/LPB7ehdGhVY/s1600/IMG_2807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gj5si1rvFmQ/UOdBuMJMJ3I/AAAAAAAABEY/LPB7ehdGhVY/s400/IMG_2807.JPG" width="315" /></a></div>
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That's my update for today - enjoy the weekend and Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-90997526656737964502012-12-28T18:54:00.002+02:002012-12-28T18:54:30.393+02:00Christmas Gifts Sent and Received<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello dear stitching friends! I hope you all had a lovely Christmas - we spent a wonderful day with family!</div>
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Dear <a href="http://fuggosegeim.blogspot.com/">Edit</a> and I have been exchanging Christmas gifts for the past few years and this years both of us received our gifts before Christmas! Here is the package I sent to Edit:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CAYL6D5wMJ4/UN3JKa9EZ6I/AAAAAAAABCo/nGuVeXhRyZk/s1600/IMG_2469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CAYL6D5wMJ4/UN3JKa9EZ6I/AAAAAAAABCo/nGuVeXhRyZk/s400/IMG_2469.JPG" width="366" /></a></div>
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Here are the stitching and Christmas related items, including an ornament, counting/marking pins, fabric, cute Christmas themed mini pegs, labels and a card:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wv7dOTzAMRs/UN3JZ7NkUnI/AAAAAAAABCw/oGWooN-l-RE/s1600/IMG_2466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="341" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wv7dOTzAMRs/UN3JZ7NkUnI/AAAAAAAABCw/oGWooN-l-RE/s400/IMG_2466.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here is a closeup of the ornament that I stitched for Edit - this sweet Owl is a design by <a href="http://www.theflossbox.com/">The Floss Box</a> and is stitched on 28ct self-dyed fabric and finished as a hanging pillow ornament:</div>
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This lovely bear and the hanging heart ornament was a gift for Edit's little baby girl, Sara - I hope she will like it!</div>
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I was lucky enough to receive this wonderful gift from Edit this year! Look at that gorgeous draw string bag - it is so lovely, I wish I could use it all year round! And that piece of Santa and reindeer fabric - so cute! Also included was a chart for JBW Christmas ornaments and those cute gingerbread magnets and a little reindeer ornament! Thank you so much Edit - I love everything!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ltW_kOXxRbI/UN3J-qBOP_I/AAAAAAAABDI/8bg5h4Wl2cc/s1600/IMG_2762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="375" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ltW_kOXxRbI/UN3J-qBOP_I/AAAAAAAABDI/8bg5h4Wl2cc/s400/IMG_2762.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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That's it for now! Have a great weekend and a wonderful New Year's Eve and New Year!</div>
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Happy Stitching,</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-15569194054315611732012-12-24T10:57:00.000+02:002012-12-24T10:57:19.912+02:00Merry Christmas!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Wishing all my stitching friends a very Merry Christmas! </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1QhU52v6WUs/UNgXTGdfV0I/AAAAAAAABCU/qJgtfEArWK0/s1600/Wreath_MerryChristmas_red_balls.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1QhU52v6WUs/UNgXTGdfV0I/AAAAAAAABCU/qJgtfEArWK0/s400/Wreath_MerryChristmas_red_balls.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hugs,</span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Michelle</span></i>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-44620505044817639922012-12-19T22:32:00.000+02:002012-12-19T22:32:08.929+02:00An Advent Calendar Start and a Gift for Annie! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello dear stitching friends from an extremely hot Cape Town! We are having our first real heatwave of the season and it is set to continue for at least another few days - I hope it will be a bit cooler over Christmas!</div>
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I have a fun Christmas start to share with you today: The Fairytale Advent Calendar by <a href="http://thelittlestitcher.blogspot.nl/">The Little Stitcher</a>. My mom spotted this piece a few weeks ago and we added it to the 'to do' list immediately! My mom and I are combining efforts on this project - we each chose twelve designs to stitch.</div>
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The designs are really small and stitch up very quickly - just the thing so close to Christmas! We are stitching it in recommended DMC threads on self-dyed 28ct evenweave. The fabric is actually a bit darker than in the pictures and works so well for Christmas stitching.</div>
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Here is number 1 and number 2 - please note that the reindeer in no 1 still needs his backstitch antlers :) I just love the little red cottage - it is so pretty!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-omkRssAWzfE/UNISDSJ9REI/AAAAAAAABBM/8yKP2YOiMeE/s1600/231_1912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-omkRssAWzfE/UNISDSJ9REI/AAAAAAAABBM/8yKP2YOiMeE/s400/231_1912.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Numbers 3 and 4 are both winter forest scenes - I love stitching snowy pieces when I'm 'trapped' in the heat!</div>
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Numbers 5 and 8 also still require backstitch - no 5 also needs antlers and in no 8 backstitch will add definition to the presents under the tree! These designs are so much fun to stitch - whimsical and primitive - perfect!<br />
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I am also delighted to report that my holiday packages are starting to arrive at their destinations - I am always so relieved to hear that a package arrived safely! This was my gift to dear <a href="http://anniebebop.blogspot.com/">Annie</a> this year, including a handmade ornament, pillow and counting/marking pins:</div>
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You might recognize the little snowman ornament from my previous post! I took a quick pic of this little freebie by <a href="http://balades-et-broderies.over-blog.com/">Carmela</a> on our Christmas tree before I packaged it:<br />
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Here is a closeup of a little lavender pillow included in the package:<br />
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I also added some aperture cards and raspberry fabric. </div>
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That's it for now! Enjoy the last few days until Christmas and Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-57704442057344106292012-12-11T22:42:00.001+02:002012-12-11T22:42:51.329+02:00Christmas Ornaments and More Needle Painting! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello dear stitching friends! Oh my, Christmas really is just around the corner! I have been working on some Christmas ornaments these past few weeks - here are some that I would like to share with you today:</div>
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This beautiful Christmas tree is a segment from Vintage Christmas by Country Cottage Needleworks and is stitched on self-dyed 28ct evenweave. It is finished as a hanging pillow ornament and is backed with the fabric pictured. I changed the colours to a more traditional, vintage colour way and I just love how it turned out - I think I will use more segments of this design for ornaments!</div>
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This little cutie is a freebie by <a href="http://balades-et-broderies.over-blog.com/">Carmela</a> and was such fun to stitch. It is stitched on light blue linen in DMC threads and also finished as a hanging pillow ornament. It is backed with the adorable snowman fabric pictured.<br />
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I have also been doing some needle painting. This little piece is called Cerise Anemone and is from Trish Burr's book Needle Painting Embroidery: Fresh Ideas For Beginners and is finished as a pinkeep. </div>
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I have really been enjoying the needle painting and hope to start a new project soon - after I do some more Christmas stitching, of course!</div>
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The sun has been shining and the temperatures rising here in our corner of the world and the summer flowers are starting to show their colours! Here are some pics of my Hydrangeas:<br />
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They are a stunning pink this year and almost ready for picking! <br />
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That's it for this post - enjoy the rest of the week and Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-3300210036171128042012-11-05T21:47:00.000+02:002012-11-05T21:50:29.179+02:00Needle Painting, a Pincushion and a Cottage of Lace!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello dear stitching friends and a warm welcome to my new followers! I have a variety of finishes to share this week. I have been wanting to try some needle painting for a while now and stitched this little Victorian Pansy by Trish Burr as my first piece. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-84qHnWzHQ7M/UJgRriZUsYI/AAAAAAAAA9o/gYfupR0eMXk/s1600/IMG_2209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="385" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-84qHnWzHQ7M/UJgRriZUsYI/AAAAAAAAA9o/gYfupR0eMXk/s400/IMG_2209.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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It is stitched in DMC stranded cotton on white linen. I'm not sure what I'll finish it as yet - maybe the cover of a needlebook or just a little pinkeep?<br />
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This Cathedral Window pincushion really drew my attention on a few web pages and I just had to try my hand at it! It turned out very pretty in pink fabrics from my stash, but I don't think I'll be using it as a pincushion - it is already on display in a basket with some other ornaments :)<br />
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I stitched this 'Maison Dentelle' from <a href="http://gazette94.blogspot.com/">gazette94</a> a while ago. It is stitched in DMC B5200 on dark pink Aida - even though I don't like stitching on Aida I love how it turned out. </div>
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I think this little cottage will look good in a frame, so I'll be on the hunt for one :)<br />
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This has been a very 'pink' post, so I will end it with a photo of some pink roses from my garden - I wish you could smell these - they are a delight!<br />
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Enjoy the rest of the week and Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-21731388269201399432012-10-23T23:20:00.000+02:002012-10-23T23:24:39.323+02:00Angelic Stitches<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Hello dear stitching friends! Finally - a post from me! I hope you have all been keeping well as the year is quickly moving along and the festive season is fast approaching. Would you believe that there are already Christmas decorations in some stores and that gift wrap and Christmas crackers are lining the shelves? </div>
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I have been getting some stitching done, here is my latest offering:</div>
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This beautiful angel is designed by Joan Elliot and was featured in a Cross Stitch Card Shop magazine. She is stitched in DMC thread and gold braid on a natural 28 count evenweave and trimmed with seed beads.<br />
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She is part of a set of four and I would like to stitch a companion piece for her, but I will leave that until next year. I will probably try to find a frame for her so that she can be on display this Christmas!</div>
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I was also the lucky winner of a great giveaway Mary over at <a href="http://acoloradostitcher.blogspot.com/">Colorado Stitcher</a> had a while ago - I won the latest version of the My Memories Suite Digital Scrapbooking Software. It is going to be great fun playing with this software and processing some of my photos - hopefully I will get more scrapbooking done, but I'm sure some stitching time will be lost! Thank you Mary for this wonderful prize!<br />
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Our Spring has been slow in arriving, with today being one of the first sunshine days of the season. Here are some pics I took over the weekend, in between rain storms. Our garden is slowly coming to life - here are some Inca lilies ready to open:<br />
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And guess who should be lurking behind the plants! Lexi loves being in the garden with me, but sometimes she shows the plants too much affection and flowers and buds are lost!</div>
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Here are the first roses in bloom:</div>
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That is it for now - I have been stitching a few Christmas ornaments, but sadly no finishing has happened! I hope to share some more stitching (and finishing) soon.</div>
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Enjoy the rest of the week and Happy Stitching!</div>
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<i>Michelle</i></div>
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-75782368577413447622012-09-04T16:28:00.001+02:002012-09-04T16:29:20.910+02:00A HUGE Finish!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello stitching friends! Well, I have not been blogging, but I have been stitching! I have finally finished my Historic Countries Sampler from The Gift of Stitching Magazine! After getting very far with it last year it was packed away and 'resting' until I suddenly decided that I wanted to finish it this year. It was great fun to stitch and I am very happy with the result:</div>
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It is a bit difficult to photograph the entire piece due to the size (this really is a biggie!), so here are a few closer shots:<br />
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It is stitched on 28ct antique white Jubilee with the recommended DMC threads. This is a big one off my ever growing WIP list!<br />
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I have also been stitching a few smaller designs and am currently working on an Angel by Joan Elliot, but more on that in the next post.<br />
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It seems that Spring is finally arriving - we have had a few sunshine days, but nights are still bitterly cold. It was a very long, cold and wet winter and it is so good to finally see the sun again!<br />
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That's it for now.<br />
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Happy Stitching!<br />
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<i>Michelle</i>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-41278609641513619822012-06-14T15:33:00.000+02:002012-06-14T15:33:57.764+02:00Some Stitching<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello dear stitching friends! Well, Winter has truly set in here in Cape Town, but we are fortunate to have a bright, sunshine day today and it is wonderful outside.</div>
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Here are some updates on my stitching of the past few months:</div>
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I have made some progress on the Reticella lace course that I am doing with <a href="http://leealbrecht.blogspot.com/">Lee Albrecht</a>. I just love all the delicate patterns and the variety in the lacy designs.</div>
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Here is a little Christmas ornament that I stitched a few months ago. I still need to do the finishing and might go with a flat finish, using the fabric pictured for the backing.<br />
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It is stitched in Madeira silks on 28 count self dyed fabric. It was such a treat to work with silk for a change! I also love the slightly more antique tones - especially the 'Old Gold' colour.<br />
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And now - a little bit of stash! I came across these lovely ribbons at an outdoor craft market a few months ago. They were sold by weight - what a great find!<br />
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Here is a better look - I have so many ideas of how to use them for finishing :)<br />
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Here is a picture of my 'baby'. Lexi, our Bullmastiff puppy turned one year old in April! I must say, I can see that she has grown a bit since then :) She is so extremely spoiled and such a loving young lady (and sometimes very naughty!)<br />
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That's it for now - I will share some more stitching progress in my next post - I have been spending a lot of time on my Heaven and Earth Designs stitching, but at the moment I'm working on a few smalls.<br />
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Until next time - Happy Stitching!<br />
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<i>Michelle</i>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-18660976439535430482012-06-07T12:01:00.000+02:002012-06-08T10:21:35.513+02:00My Internet lives again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello Blogging friends! Oh my, I have been longing to do a post, but we have had such trouble with our internet connection, but it all seems to be sorted out for now.</div>
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I have been doing a lot of stitching and will show progress pics over the next few weeks, but firstly I want to show you the wonderful prize I received. I won <a href="http://leealbrecht.blogspot.com/">Lee Albrecht's</a> Christmas draw at the end of last year and a few months ago the package arrived. It was so much fun to receive a brown paper package!</div>
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Here is a look at the goodies inside. A lovely magazine containing some Reticella work, postcards, Perle cotton, a Brazilian pin and some wonderfull organic soap!<br />
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Here is a close up of the small kits, they are so sweet and I absolutely love the Matrioska thread keep!<br />
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The main prize was this wonderful Hardanger Christmas Stocking kit - it is so beautiful! Lee also included a calender, containing beautiful pictures of her work and kits.<br />
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The students from Lee's embroidery school also wanted to get involved in sending some gifts and I was lucky enough to receive this lovely package from Larissa. She included a card, stunning dog print fabrics, sweet treats and some other goodies.<br />
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Look at this cute fabric - I love it!<br />
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This piece of fabric is also great and I love those buttons - she must know how much I love dogs!<br />
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Thank you so much to Lee and Larissa! I appreciate these beautiful, thoughtful gifts so very much!<br />
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I have a lot of catching up to do on blogs and will also post some of my stitching updates soon.<br />
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Happy Stitching!<br />
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<i>Michelle</i>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2741683721531758439.post-19754592625766984142012-03-10T15:43:00.003+02:002012-03-10T15:55:44.998+02:00A Stitchy Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Oh my - I cannot believe that it has been more than a month since my last update! Fortunately I have some stitching to show :) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I finished this block on Shores of Hawk Run Hollow by Carriage House Samplings. The whale and background took really long, but I'm glad that the block is finished!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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I also started another block on SoHRH - this is the bottom left hand corner and is stitching up much faster than the previous block. I love how it's turning out - the colours are so striking on the Harvest Beige linen and is even more beautiful in person.<br />
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Here is how the entire piece is looking at the moment:<br />
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In keeping with my stitching goals for the year I stitched (and finished) a Christmas ornament in February. This lovely bauble is a freebie by <a href="http://kissycross.twoday.net/">Kissy-Cross</a>. She has some beautiful freebies - I even have another one of her charts printed out to stitch some time soon :) I finished this piece as a hanging ornament, trimmed with a little golden bow and backed with green polka dot fabric.<br />
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This beautiful piece was stitched by my mom and is called 'Outside my Window' and was featured in the 2005 Just Cross Stitch Ornament issue. I absolutely love this piece - the snowy crystals and the Gingham bow finishes it off beautifully and it is backed with the pictured blue 'Crackle' fabric by Moda. (I love the Moda Crackle fabrics - they are great for finishing!)<br />
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Michele over at <a href="http://heavenandearthdesigns.com/">Heaven and Earth Designs</a> had a HUGE leap year sale which led to me acquiring a new chart! This is Alice in Clockwork and is a Quick Stitch piece by Jasmine Becket-Griffith. Naturally, I had to start it immediately and it is such fun to stitch! I love this piece and can't wait to make some serious progress on it :)<br />
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As I have mentioned before, I am part of a very lucky group of ladies currently learning the Reticella lace technique through <a href="http://leealbrecht.blogspot.com/">Lee Albrecht's</a> embroidery school. To thank Lee for her generosity I sent her a package of goodies to use in creating some more beautiful embroidery pieces.<br />
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I sent the gift in this lovely biscuit tin:<br />
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This is what it looks like when you take the lid off :)<br />
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I included some DMC Perle threads in numbers 8 and 12, as well as some linen fabrics, suited to Reticella and Hardanger techniques. I also included three pieces of patchwork fabric.<br />
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I LOVE this card - it is such a beautiful and idyllic scene - I wish I had all those beautiful flowers growing in my garden :)<br />
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That is it for now - I have some serious catching up to do on all your beautiful blogs. <br />
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Have a great weekend and Happy Stitching!<br />
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<i>Michelle</i>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03063949587982068016noreply@blogger.com15