Ribbons at Woodlawn 2012

Hi Everybody... Robin here.

I have never been to Woodlawn but would love to go. My stitching designs, however, have been to Woodlawn, and won ribbons, too. Many thanks to Lori Mazza from
Waste Knot Needlepoint in Arlington, VA for sharing these photos.

I met Lori (owner of Waste Knot Needlepoint) several years ago when she took my
Katt Z. Witch class at TNNA. Since then, she has taken a few other classes of mine including the 3D Cake class (featuring DMC Memory Thread techniques) and the Fraidy Cat class (from the Creepy Characters by NeedleDeeva).

Longtime blog readers are probably familiar with both of these pieces, but for those new to the blog, here is a more direct link to review:  3D Cake and Creepy Characters.

I recently saw Lori at TNNA/Columbus market and she showed me her photos w/ribbons from Woodlawn. How exciting. Here is a summary from Lori.

Here are the pieces I entered into Woodlawn.  They all were in the commercial multi-stitch canvas category...  

I got a 1st place on the cake and an honorable mention on Fraidy Cat... 

As a shop, we put in 31 pieces for our customers and received 16 ribbons out of 31 entries.  

Congratulations to Lori and all of her wonderful stitchers at Waste Knot Needlepoint.

Let's enjoy her photos:

3D Cake by Associated Talents • CD1200
Stitch Guide by Robin King for DMC
Stitched by Lori Mazza /  Waste Knot Needlepoint

Fraidy Cat by NeedleDeeva • ND 0467-H
Stitch Guide by Robin King
Stitched by Lori Mazza /  Waste Knot Needlepoint

Antique Toy Alphabet by Alice Peterson • 3043
Stitched by Lori Mazza /  Waste Knot Needlepoint

Witch by Susan Roberts/Tapestry Tent • AP-430
Stitched by Lori Mazza / Waste Knot Needlepoint

Love the wooden finishings on Fraidy Cat and the Toy Box? Those were done by Sharon Hall at Mountain Shadow Studio located in Denver, CO. Your needlepoint shop can send your work to them for finishing, too.

Hooty Owl was also stitched by Lori and finished by Mountain Shadow Studio. Don't they make a handsome pair! Lori is certainly ready for Halloween.

Hooty Owl by NeedleDeeva • 0467-i
Stitch Guide by Robin King

Seeing one's stitch guides come into reality...  and winning ribbons... is so thrilling. Thank you, Lori for sharing your work our blog readers.

Until the next time... Hugs, Robin

Free Stitch Guides!

Hi Everybody... Robin here.

Ever want a FREE stitch guide? Well, here is one place you can find them: on the DMC website.

Several months ago, I was asked by DMC to chart/compile a Stitch Guide from Alice Okon's wonderful stitching of Beautiful Flowers by Maggie Co. (M-1429). I just loved this canvas when I saw it in the DMC booth at TNNA/Phoenix. It was also one of the models used in the Memory Thread class which I taught during TNNA.

Beautiful Flowers by Maggie Co. (M-1429)
Stitch Design by Alice Okon • Stitch Guide compiled by Robin King

The notes and photos were emailed to me. All I had to do was label, describe and chart the stitches and techniques. I am amazed at Alice's artistry and usage of the DMC Memory Thread.  Her approach to stitches with DMC thread selection is very creative. In fact, Alternating Diagonal Mosaic stitch inspired me for one of the leaves in Sunflower and Berries (ND 309).

Leaf #5 in Sunflower and Berries (ND 309)
Alternating Diagonal Mosaic stitch

Here's the link to the Needlepoint Stitch Guides on the DMC website:
http://www.dmc-usa.com/Products/Free-Stitch-Guides/Needlepoint-Stitch-Guides

Just click on the Beautiful Flowers image and the PDF will download; ready for you to save to your desktop as well as print for your records. Here is a screenshot of the stitch guide as I was writing it... 14 pages.

Descriptions, Photos, Stitches Diagrams... all for you... FREE.

Want more FREE stitch guides?  The same link will send you to the other free stitch guides from the collaboration of Associated Talents and DMC. Excellent usage of Memory Thread!

The "Shop the Town: Bakery, Boutique, Coffee Shop and Flower Shop" series is so cute. I love these designs by Associated Talents. Download and print these, too... OK?

Free Needlepoint Stitch Guides from DMC

DMC encourages stitches to use some, if not all of these techniques for applying Memory Thread. Visit their website to see their new threads and colors. It is a wonderful website.

Well, that's all for now. I must get back to "work"... code word for stitching, stitch guides, etc...  I will be able to share some of those events on another day.

Until then... Hugs, Robin

Needlepoint Study Hall and CraftGossip.com

Hi Everybody... Robin here.

Just a quick update.

Did you hear that Needlepoint Study Hall was mentioned on the February 6th, 2012 posting of CraftGossip.com?

Here's the link:  http://needlework.craftgossip.com/using-memory-thread-in-needlepoint/2012/02/06/

How cool is that!!!  Thanks to Liz Saylor/DMC who gave me the heads up.

Next up on my topic of blogs: Tea Towels. Can't wait to show you. Until then... Hugs, Robin

3D Cake with DMC Embellishment - part four

Hi Everybody... Robin here.

Want to see how/where else to use the DMC Memory Thread? Just look at these ways Alice Okon, designer from DMC, stitched these models using DMC Memory Thread.

Can you find all of the DMC Memory Thread treatments in Photo #1?

Photo #1
Ms. Diva Mermaid / KCN 932 / Kelly Clark Needlepoint 

Alice used it for the different Seaweed locations, Mermaid Bra, Mermaid Bottom, Harp, Braided Trim, Mermaid Crown and Fish Hook.

Can you find all of the DMC Memory Thread treatments in Photo #2?

Photo #2
Ms. Vanity Mermaid / KCN 933 / Kelly Clark Needlepoint

Alice used it for the different Seaweed locations, Mermaid Bra, Mermaid Bottom, Hair Brush, Mirror, Beaded Trim and Mermaid Crown.

Alice also added DMC Memory Thread to this canvas by Maggie Co, Beautiful Flowers (M1429). Look and enjoy! You can also read more about this canvas on the DMC blog.

Need any cute Hair suggestions? Try using DMC Memory Thread for a fabulous 3D effect.

design by DMC

During the 3D Cake Embellishment class, I also brought models I had stitched showing more DMC Memory Thread applications. Remember these?

Movement and Motion really tell the story with DMC Memory Thread.

The Twin Curl decorations at the top of this
ornament was made with DMC Memory Thread.

Use DMC Memory Thread when making
an Earring or Jewelry for your needlepoint.

Lettering, Outline Edge and Facial Details
are easy to do with DMC Memory Thread

Plants and Flowers are enhanced with DMC Memory Thread

To summarize, here are some of the ways I have seen DMC Memory Thread used:

• ruffle edge or a bow
• curls - freeform
• spiral curls
• flat spirals
• single line edge
• double line edge
• twisted -- one color
• twisted -- two colors
• picot needleweaving structure
• stumpwork structure
• single knot
• strand of knots
• braided
• beads placed on
• script wording or letters 

Of course, this is not a final list. I am sure we will find other ways to use it. Can't wait to try. Read more about DMC Memory Thread on the DMC website.

Stop the presses... this just in... I received a wonderful DMC Memory Thread Conversion to Splendor, Silk Lamé Braid, Neon Rays, Soft Sheen Fyre Werks and Mandarin Floss from Sally/Rainbow Gallery. Each thread would make an awesome couching thread with the DMC Memory Thread. Thanks, Sally!

Well, that's all for now. Go have fun with the DMC Memory Thread. Let me hear from you.

Until the next time... Hugs, Robin

3D Cake with DMC Embellishment - part three

Hi Everybody... Robin here.

I received permission from DMC, and now I can share the rest of the DMC Memory Thread lesson with you. Get your notepad ready...

During the 3D Cake Embellishment class, I showed the students some wonderfully stitched needlepoint pieces with applied DMC Memory Thread. Everyone was getting comfortable working with it... now was the time to introduce places to use it.

Are you intimidated about where to put the DMC Memory Thread? Here's what I did: make a color paper copy of the painted canvas and get a Sharpie pen. Then, draw lines on your paper indicating possible locations for the DMC Memory Thread.

Plan your pathways with a Sharpie on paper, first.

You can use DMC Memory Thread to outline an area. You can use it as a structure for needleweaving or stumpwork. You can make a 3D design element. You can use it to show movement. It is so versatile. And, there are 28 colors.

Fan Peddler by Labors of Love / LL 270C

Alice Okon, a wonderful designer from DMC, stitched the Fan Peddler from Labors of Love (LL 270C). Her applications were exciting. Just look at all the ways she added DMC Memory Thread to the needlepoint.

Photo #1 shows DMC Memory Thread applied by Alice Okon:

• the Hat and the Ruffle: nice use of two shades of DMC Memory Thread relating to the painted canvas. The Ruffle Edge is enhanced with the DMC Memory Thread.
• the Hair: nice use of the DMC Memory Thread showing the Curls of the Hair on top of the Basketweave stitching.
• the Outline of the Hat Pin: the Silver DMC Memory Thread gives an identifiable edge to the Brooch.
• the Fan Edges, Doubled Fan Edge and the Collar: these edges are more refined with the application of the DMC Memory Thread. Nice Colors, too.
• Note: the twisted and coiled DMC Memory Thread into a Purple Rosette on the Green Fan.

Photo #1

Photo #2 shows DMC Memory Thread applied by Alice Okon:

• the Fan Handles: Picot Needleweaving technique using DMC Gold Or (284 AZ) for the Gold Handle; twisted DMC Memory Thread for the White Fan Handle.
• the Fan Outlines: keeping true to the painted canvas, the Fan Edges are stitched with DMC Memory Thread.
• the Fan Embellishments: note there are Beads surrounded by the DMC Memory Thread for detail. Size 8 Mill Hill Beads can be strung onto DMC Memory Thread, as seen on the White Fan Handle.
• the Basket Edge: is outlined with a single piece of DMC Memory Thread for a nice edge.

Photo #2

Photo #3 shows DMC Memory Thread applied by Alice Okon:

• the Twisted Edge of the Basket Rim: using two colors of DMC Memory Thread twisted together.
• the Basket Edge: is outlined with a single piece of DMC Memory Thread for a nice edge.
• the Fan Edges: double pieces of DMC Memory Thread couched together for the Fan Edge; single piece of DMC Memory Thread used for the curved Fan Edge.
• the Fan Handles: Picot Needleweaving technique using DMC Gold Or (284 AZ) for the Gold Handle; twisted DMC Memory Thread for the White Fan Handle.
• the Sleeve Ruffle: the DMC Memory Thread has been used to separate the Sleeve Ruffle placed on top of the Basketweave stitching.

Photo #3

Photo #4 shows DMC Memory Thread applied by Alice Okon:

• the Spiral Roses: the DMC Memory Thread has been coiled and then shaped into Roses.
• the Green Leaves: the DMC Memory Thread has been shaped into Leaves on her dress as well as on the Fan.
• the Purple Coiled Rosette: two pieces of Purple DMC Memory Thread (or one long piece doubled then twisted) have been twisted together and then wrapped into a Coil.
• the Blue Fan Handle: two pieces of DMC Memory Thread were couched side by side for greater size and proportion of the Handle.
• the Collar: these edges are more refined with the application of DMC Memory Thread.
• the Green Fan: has Gold DMC Memory Thread for an outline and a Satin Stitch of Gold Thread inside.

Photo #4

 Here are more photos... close up. Photos from Liz Saylor/DMC. Thanks, Liz!

Next time, I will conclude the DMC Memory Thread journey. So much fun is yet to come.

Until then... Hugs, Robin

3D Cake with DMC Embellishment - part two

Hi Everybody... Robin here.

Sorry to be away so long from the Blog. Since I've been back from TNNA/ Phoenix, I have been working on projects which were shouting my name. Does that ever happen to you? Basking in the warm fuzzy aura of a "job well done" and then life pinches you back into reality. Oh well...

Since this is "mostly" a needlepoint blog, thought I would share the conclusion of the DMC Memory Thread on the 3D Cake from Associated Talents (CD 1200). I had to teach the lesson first to the TNNA students/shop owners. Here's the link to the earlier blog posting. Now that that's done, it is time to share my learned knowledge with you.

The DMC Memory Thread decorated and frosted the cake in 3D style. I used White, Pink, Green for the Flowers/Leaves and Frosting details. I used Gold for the Cake Stand. I followed the design originated by design artist, Alice Okon from DMC, and gave it my own spin, too.

Here are some of the things I learned while working with DMC Memory Thread:

1. Use a working length of DMC Memory Thread longer than the intended final length. You will want to have "legs" at both ends which will plunge through to the backside of the canvas to be secured.
2. Pre-shape the DMC Memory Thread before attaching to the canvas.
3. Use an awl, laying tool or trolley needle to gently open the canvas hole. Have some tweezers handy to grab onto the plunged end. 
4. Do not try to insert the DMC Memory Thread into a needle for plunging purposes.
5. Pink Hair Dresser's Tape (or any other kind of low-tack tape) is good to use keeping working legs out of the way prior to securing to the backside of the canvas.
6. Have someone apply pressure to the surface of the shaped design while you are making the initial securing steps to the back of the canvas. This will help keep the design from losing its shape.
7. You can successfully apply DMC Memory Thread on top of open canvas work. Just be mindful and mirror the design pathway when securing it to the backside of the canvas.

Here is what the backside looked like as I was designing with the DMC Memory Thread. I placed each element onto the canvas, and then taped it to the backside with Pink Hair Dresser's Tape to keep it out of the way.

Once I was pleased with the arrangement, I removed the tape and began securing the DMC Memory Thread ends.

DMC Memory Thread 6050 White was used for each of the different Cake Tier Frosting Decorations. The bottom Cake Tier was 2 pieces: twisted together and attached to represent the Cable Decoration. The middle Cake Tier was 1 piece: bent into a squiggle design using your fingers; maintaining all segments to be the same height. Tweezers were used to gently pinch the segments together. The top Cake Tier was 1 piece: tied in consecutive Knots. Each Frosting Decoration was placed and tested for best shape before they were permanently attached to the canvas using 1 strand DMC Floss 3865. 

Here is a collection of some of the different shapes used with the DMC Memory Thread. Notice their long "legs" were helpful used for placement and securing to the canvas.

Currently, there are 28 colors. DMC also has a handy chart on their website for selecting the DMC Floss used for couching the Memory Thread in place.

The main thing I learned was to play with and have fun with the DMC Memory Thread. It is a wonderful product. Great for giving your needlepoint a fun 3D effect. I've been told my stitch guide will be available on the DMC website, too. Sweet!

Now, who wants some cake? Until the next time... Hugs, Robin

TNNA / Phoenix 2012 - day one

Hi Everybody... Robin here... in Phoenix.

Thursday morning I boarded the big Delta plane for Phoenix. It was the smoothest flight ever... like riding on a marshmallow. It was fun looking through the window: as we passed over New Mexico, from the air, it looked like a foreign world. Absolutely breathtaking.

My stitching project on the plane is my personal copy of the 3D Cake from Associated Talents which I taught for DMC showcasing the DMC Memory Thread. I loved working this little canvas so much, I am stitching it again for me. Size 14 mesh canvas from Associated Talents... DMC threads... what's not to love?

The 3D Cake Embellishment class was very well received. On Friday afternoon, Shop Owners from all over the country attended the class. DMC brought stunning finished pieces with Memory Thread for the students to see. They were given time to work with the Memory Thread. I shared many of my helpful hints with them, too. I believe everyone was more confident about how easy it is to use, as well as how effective the results are. It was a successful class and I was honored to be considered for the opportunity to teach for DMC. Blog readers note: I will conclude the Memory Thread lessons when I get back home to Memphis.

Immediately after the class, I packed up my models and headed to Sample It. There, I dropped off the Lotus Squared piece to Zecca. It was her first time to see it finished. The black lacquered box was stunning. The threads, beads and ribbons jumped under the lights. Zecca was thrilled. It will be on display in the Zecca booth during market. I would encourage all shop owners to stop by and see it in person... Lotus Squared by Zecca (ZE 134) ... stitch guide by Robin King.

My other model on display was the HUGS pillow. The finishing was from Elizabeth Turner Collection,  and, as usual, they did an awesome job. HUGS was on display during Galleria at the Alice Peterson Company area. Such a thrill to see it finished and to show it off to the Shop Owners. HUGS will be on display in the Alice Peterson Company booth this weekend during Market. Shop Owners should stop by to see it in person and order it for their customers. Everyone needs some hugs, right? HUGS by Gayla Elliott/Alice Peterson Company (GS-11) ... stitch guide by Robin King.

Team Deeva was busy during Sample It. The Gooey Valentine's Day Hearts were a hit. I am so proud of their success.

Looks like this morning is getting away from me. Time for breakfast and then the Show! First day of Market. How exciting. I will continue blogging through out the event. So much to say... until the next time... Hugs, Robin

Lotus Squared by Zecca (ZE 134)

Hi Everybody... Robin here.

I'm in "countdown mode" getting ready to attend the Phoenix/TNNA Winter Market next week. Looking forward to seeing the new designs and friends, too.

Back in October 2011, I gave a preview of the Lotus Squared by Zecca. Last evening was time for the finishing of this piece. I am pleased with the outcome and would like to share my journey with you.

I decided to have this piece finished into an HP Black Lacquer Box. The workmanship is beautiful. It comes in a nice drawstring bag. The 8x8 box was perfect for the 6x6 canvas; the black showcased the elegance of the Lotus Squared.

Both Canvas and Lid are 6x6 and yet... 

Once I was finished stitching, I laid the box lid over the canvas to check the initial fit. Notice the white canvas showing? I saw it too, and knew I had to deal with it. Here is what I did.

Measure the Box Lid opening.

Measure the Canvas design area

Measure the Box Lid insert.

Draw a Stitching Margin and a Cutting Line

Basketweave the Stitching Margin

Stitching Margin complete!

Following the photos, you can see I embraced the saying: Measure twice, cut once. In fact, I did that and more. I measured... measured again... wrote down notes... thought about it... stepped away... came back to it... measured again... until I was sure I was on the right track.

I did the Basketweave Stitch in the Stitching Margin. I used 8 strands of Splendor S1014 which covered my white canvas perfectly. Remember, I chose the design on 13 mesh.

Then, I got the big scissors out and began cutting on the Cutting Line. Steady. Deliberate. Holding my breath the entire time. I filmed part of this sequence for you to see. Confidence? Sure... while the camera was rolling. LOL.

With the canvas cut, I placed it onto the Black Box Lid insert and saw things were going to fit just fine.

Canvas cut out.

Inserting the canvas into the Box Lid was easy. Just lay it into the lid and place the Black Lid insert over your canvas. Simple. Done. No gluing or taping needed. The size of the Black Lid insert does all the work.

I am so pleased with the outcome. Love the Zecca design. Love the HP Black Lacquer box. I am pretty proud of my stitching design, too. The River Silks Ribbon was a dream to use. Loved the Gloriana Silk Threads. The DMC Memory Thread was perfect for the Lotus details. Rainbow Gallery's Neon Rays, Flair, and Splendor gave the right touch. Kreinik was my go-to choice for the Stems. Skip Tent was the best background... and the Mill Hill Beads! really set off the piece. I discovered some stitching techniques and have shared them in the Stitch Guide.

My Stitch Guide comes with the Lotus Squared canvas (ZE 134) and will be available from Zecca at "Sample It" as well as during the Phoenix show. Just ask your LNS to visit the Zecca booth. You have your choice of this design in either 18 mesh or 13 mesh. I chose the 13 mesh and loved working it.

I will be blogging from the show; wearing my many hats: DMC teacher; NeedleDeeva booth worker;  HUGS on display at Galleria and in the Alice Peterson Company booth; roving reporter for all of you.

See you in Phoenix!  Until then... Hugs, Robin