Long Overdue Post

It's been a busy couple of months with work and other things going on; I just haven't had time to post much. Blogging always takes a back seat to actual stitching (I'm sure you understand!) Consequently, I have a few updates for you.

Let's start with a finish that I had at the end of March. I took a break from the Crazy Challenge and stitched up this BBD Reward of Merit that came out at market. I thoroughly enjoyed every stitch! The fabric is 30ct R&R Irish Creme, the fibers are what the pattern called for. Check out the edging - it's the new "Fudge" colored hand dyed chenille from R&R!

Blackbird Designs - Gathering Basket

30ct R&R Irish Creme, Crescent Colors

Another finish happened just last night! This was another market piece that I started a couple of weeks ago. I had hoped to get it finished in time for last weekend's retreat, but it didn't happen. Those who were there with me know how I toiled over which thread colors to use for the medallions that kind of blend in with the fabric. This design is called Quaker Stitches and it is from Jeanette Douglas Designs. I stitched it on 32 count LL Vintage Sand Dune and purchased the threadpack that was offered by JDD. The thread colors that seem to disappear on the fabric are stitched with Belle Soie Baquette. For about two weeks (and three trips to my LNS) I went back and forth trying alternate colors - BS Vanilla Pudding, BS Scarecrow, BS Her Crown. The Vanilla Pudding stood out too much, the Scarecrow not enough. I had almost settled on Her Crown, a yellowish gold silk (you can see it in the photo below at the top of the design.)

At the retreat this past weekend I had the opportunity to see the finished piece with the original colors and it was gorgeous! Jeanette shared with me that she agonized over that color too, but in the end she stuck with Baguette because it was not uncommon for the Quakers to use a color that was similar to the fabric color. I finished this piece last night and I used Baguette for those final medallions! The picture below is a little dark, but hopefully you can still appreciate how beautiful this piece is! (The colors in the photo above are more accurate!)

Jeanette Douglas Designs - Quaker Stitches

32ct LL Vintage Sand Dune, Assorted Silks

I have been working on other challenge pieces; the next two are going to receive all of my attention for the next couple weeks as I'd like to finish them. Here's my progress on Poppy Maye Russell from Heartstring Samplery. The alphabet is taking a long time to finish!

Here's an updated photo on Happy Hearts Sampler from BOAF. I have my thread situation figured out with this one too, so look for some changes next time I snap a photo of this one! The retreat this past weekend was wonderful! Jeanette Douglas is so genuine - it was fun to meet her. I have pictures and stories to tell; watch for that update tomorrow. I think I have rambled on enough for one day! Thanks for stopping by!