Growth Spurt

I just love seeing the same piece reinterpreted different ways.  Here are three most excellent examples of Growth Rings that have been shared recently.

First up, Mary finished hers using Crescent Colours Cupid for the red, and Weeks Dye Works Noel for the multi. It is stitched on 28 count African Daisy. This came out just lovely and will be even more so when Mary gets it framed. She's planning on having contoured mats to bring out the shape of the design. 

Mary also sent in a picture for her friend Christie, who also just finished up the chart.  Christie used Threadworks green and purple fibers on 28 count white.  What you can see, is that she's outlined all of the sections in backstitching, which gives a look of Assisi embroidery to all of the green areas. What a neat idea!

This last photo shows the synergy that is obtained by combining the design with beautiful stitching talents with the most exquisite of framers, Jill Rensel.  (Seriously, how many other framers are a household name to needleworkers?)

This is Christine's version. Absolutely stunning. So, Mary (with the first pic) if you had any doubts whether contour framing would look cool, please rest assured that it certainly does!

I should think all three of these stitchers would be terribly proud of their beautiful work. I am!  Thanks so much for sharing your lovelies, ladies. 

Size Does Matter

I've got an inbox full of wonderful things that folks have sent in since I last blogged, but have been kept busy enough that I hadn't shared them.  So, over the coming days, I hope to get a bit caught up.

To fully appreciate Nadia's finished piece, I would like you to pick up that pad of Post-Its from the side of your desk. Look closely at the size of the square.  Now look at her picture. I know people that don't like to (or can't) stitch on 36 count over 2 --- This was stitched on 36 over 1, and , yes, came out the size of a standard Post-It note. It's not as beautiful of a photo with the ruler in the shot, but I wasn't sure you would believe me without it. 

Nadia continues to push the stitching envelope and continues to amaze me with the fabulous projects she completes.  Join me in congratulations her on an awesome finish!  We can't wait to see what she does next.

This was a special mandala pattern that was only available through the Thread & Eye in London, Ontario. The Stitch Along is over but if you need a copy, they can help you out via mail order.  If you are looking for similar designs, I have Kaleidoscope available now, and a series of mandalas for the four seasons that were originally published in four issues of Just Cross Stitch Magazine which will be coming out as a single leaflet in mid-August.