tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143429072024-03-06T21:49:48.624-08:00Sandy's Stitch NicheSandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-29593479467220074602011-02-04T11:34:00.000-08:002011-02-04T14:53:00.260-08:00Is it spring yet?!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaSEgzeLt7DYhGtz_Y7gap0RLx7TsFQz0GqMeLr7rlZOxjaIVejYomu6awy0VZv8xSe8bBpNcAsjGxtS9p_NwXGuSahkeORGGU7I1v0goNxz20DpK44VseHVd_u9o5XE-ujvqzow/s1600/P1100313.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaSEgzeLt7DYhGtz_Y7gap0RLx7TsFQz0GqMeLr7rlZOxjaIVejYomu6awy0VZv8xSe8bBpNcAsjGxtS9p_NwXGuSahkeORGGU7I1v0goNxz20DpK44VseHVd_u9o5XE-ujvqzow/s200/P1100313.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569927463126770354" border="0" /></a>All the handwork we saw in Jordan was counted cross stitch! The women there produce all manner of clothing, accessories, decorations, household goods, all cross stitched - we loved it! Stop in the shop to see the jacket and pillow Sandy brought back.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZtlIm70OExZ6MeVTHVyj_WWvUY_iVZ8p2GJa7_0frKm6E5XS07cSOW2aN4S60UTgMOdrYuT1mUaSnPXVAmFxWrhVrd973rpXgzlueScLbvzqYSFIKRb0x02atqr5MmrRqwcfnw/s1600/P1100831.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZtlIm70OExZ6MeVTHVyj_WWvUY_iVZ8p2GJa7_0frKm6E5XS07cSOW2aN4S60UTgMOdrYuT1mUaSnPXVAmFxWrhVrd973rpXgzlueScLbvzqYSFIKRb0x02atqr5MmrRqwcfnw/s200/P1100831.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569927457110495362" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhitfZ00-mMtS-kSmoZqxcl5RZtUy95wBKSL1CF4uBOARoAYapJZA7SQU8zjcADz6z0360a0hT1uJY2XK0x2LnhGQvguD1geoKi8pt-hZoHRwMwV0lNBsuRKcOuZ9kiukwi0WAreA/s1600/DSCN7479.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhitfZ00-mMtS-kSmoZqxcl5RZtUy95wBKSL1CF4uBOARoAYapJZA7SQU8zjcADz6z0360a0hT1uJY2XK0x2LnhGQvguD1geoKi8pt-hZoHRwMwV0lNBsuRKcOuZ9kiukwi0WAreA/s200/DSCN7479.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569927449679103154" border="0" /></a>Carousel Charts' (Portland designer) Mermaid of the Oregon Coast, as stitched by Reta Holland (Dufur) - lovely!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjujSTwDCHb9c3u85TLZlluPHIczqM5xWrWP3N6a0itSLKvDYSDqihBvr4oqcTFTSYMWq6TlFw6AynAkx60mafTy9c_yx-SDEgo0ZkFSEBwQeBrF832I0Z-i7voSap-BFsY_AQbeA/s1600/DSCN7473.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjujSTwDCHb9c3u85TLZlluPHIczqM5xWrWP3N6a0itSLKvDYSDqihBvr4oqcTFTSYMWq6TlFw6AynAkx60mafTy9c_yx-SDEgo0ZkFSEBwQeBrF832I0Z-i7voSap-BFsY_AQbeA/s200/DSCN7473.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569927444503393026" border="0" /></a>One of Sandy's best helpers, granddaughter Amelia, putting up Mill Hill beads.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">We had such cold weather for a few days, after it felt like spring for a week- but it's warming up, again, hurray! As long as the sun shines...:-)<br /><br />What's new? <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mill Hill</span>'s spring kits are here, and we love them all - magnets include a fabulous Triple Scoop ice cream cone, dreamy dragonfly and beautiful butterfly; beaded and buttoned kits are for Mardis Gras, a Main Street Flower Shoppe, wonderful hummingbird, and two cute cupcakes - small and quick!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mary Engelbreit</span> has created darling PAPER DOLLS with beautiful and fun backgrounds, not to stitch, just cut out and play! We've gotten them for our granddaughters - but want to cut them out ourselves! We were reminiscing about the old McCall's paper dolls when we saw these, how we waited for mom's new magazine so we could cut them out right away. Nostalgia! Sandy will keep one set of books at the shop until it's time to give them up in June for a birthday gift...check them out, or you can see the covers on the Leisure Arts website. We'd love to get some for you!<br /><br />There are lots of new designs out from our favorites, too, so do stop in to see what's new! <span style="font-weight: bold;">Little House</span> is beginning the 2011 ornament series with <span style="font-style: italic;">Cardinal Winter</span>; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lizzie Kate</span>'s begun their <span style="font-style: italic;">Halloween Rules Double Flips</span>, just adorable - the first is "Wear a Costume"! Sandy's begun, so you can see how it looks at the shop.<br /></div><br />February 8 is<br /><h1 class="entry-title" style="text-align: center;" align="center"><span>"Hari-kuyo: Festival of Broken Needles<br /></span><p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(0, 51, 102); text-align: center;" align="center"><span><strong>In the Hari-Kuyo ceremony, Japanese women gather once a year on Febuary 8th at Shinto shrines or Buddhist temples to thank their worn out needles and pins for good service.</strong></span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; text-align: center;" align="center"><span><strong></strong> </span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 0);"><span><strong>It is also a time to value the small, everyday objects of daily living and to wish for progress in one's needle work. In what is known as the <em>Festival of Broken Needles</em><span style="font-style: normal;">, women gather to offer a funeral-type service by laying the needles to rest in soft jelly cakes or tofu. This burial is meant to bring rest to the needles and wrap them with tenderness and gratitude. </span></strong></span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 0);"><span><strong><strong>Further to the idea of laying the needles to rest for good service is the idea that women have many secret sorrows in life. These sorrows are often passed to the needles during long hours of stitching and the needles are thought to take on the burden of some of these sorrows, thus taking them away with the stitching that they do. This "rest" is brought to the needles in appreciation for their faithful service.</strong></strong></span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 0);"><span><strong><strong></strong> </strong></span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 0);"><span><strong><strong>Another aspect of the ceremony is the consideration for "the value of small things." The concept of <em>Mottainai</em>, or not being wasteful, is related to the usefulness of the needles. These small but important tools would give long, useful service throughout the year. They were not to be lost or wasted nor carelessly replaced."</strong></strong></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 0);"><br /><span><strong><strong></strong></strong></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 0); text-align: justify;font-size:10pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong><strong>What a great sentiment! Should you choose to bury your old needles, rest assured we have plenty in stock to replace them. Let us know you've honored your needles and we'll give one for free. :-)</strong></strong></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 0); text-align: justify; font-size: 10pt;"><br /><span><strong><strong></strong></strong></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 0); text-align: justify; font-size: 10pt;"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: normal;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:times new roman;">News from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Zweigart</span>: Many fabric colors in various counts have been discontinued - because they're no longer popular in Europe - they don't seem to worry about the rest of the world. :-) Since it's our source for most stitching fabric, it causes difficulty in that older designs might call for something which is no longer made. We usually have an easy alternative - Wichelt has provided us with a very useful color chart relating fabric to DMC floss colors, so we can generally find an excellent replacement. There's also the option of hand dyed fabrics, and we have a good assortment of those on hand also. Flexibility is the key. :-)<br /></span></span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 0); text-align: justify;font-size:10pt;"><br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: normal;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span></span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 0); text-align: justify;font-size:10pt;"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: normal;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">DMC</span> - Their prices have gone up again, so we may be re-thinking ours. For now, we're holding it at 50 cents per skein, but you might wish to stock up soon. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Anchor</span> remains stable, at 60 cents per skein. (Full retail on both is quite a bit more.) Most of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">overdyes</span> are now $2. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kreinik</span> went up some time ago, but hasn't changed recently.</span></span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 0); text-align: justify;font-size:10pt;"><br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: normal;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span></span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 0); text-align: justify;font-size:10pt;"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: normal;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:times new roman;">It's like everything else, prices go up but seldom go down. Many patterns now fall closer to the $10 range - those designers have multiple levels with whom to share the income, so we can hardly blame them. Shipping, too, is a huge factor in costs. Still, counted cross titch is one of the least expensive types of needlework - and we still love doing it! We hope you do, too!</span></span><br /></span></p><span><strong></strong></span></h1>Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-79680251050613222010-10-06T11:53:00.000-07:002010-10-06T15:25:36.586-07:00Fall has fallen!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivgmlX8K7ZkriwNeutGe72Cb0INqNXRQjVvv4FN1EyXB4s6B7ukAmuIhHU8w_rKfYJL_yydIcsBPLyh48hVxxWr2A54FX5boyWay0QYX-IEwJraC0Et1xVyX-rOnyOKrpKFdeclA/s1600/DSCN7383.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivgmlX8K7ZkriwNeutGe72Cb0INqNXRQjVvv4FN1EyXB4s6B7ukAmuIhHU8w_rKfYJL_yydIcsBPLyh48hVxxWr2A54FX5boyWay0QYX-IEwJraC0Et1xVyX-rOnyOKrpKFdeclA/s200/DSCN7383.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525059736092998562" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVGbxSHp9Z8_UCak1Y3JvXnZK2oX8PajMta24kSofw4vlVZrc0RyrTRgXQcyEqHzoyVbiPPLB-O7T24NmF4rv0EykC5EAuVsv6tz42PBJZD4HeQc3ZQe1yJF5321CeH4ZhCatUIQ/s1600/SublimeStitching.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 70px; height: 62px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVGbxSHp9Z8_UCak1Y3JvXnZK2oX8PajMta24kSofw4vlVZrc0RyrTRgXQcyEqHzoyVbiPPLB-O7T24NmF4rv0EykC5EAuVsv6tz42PBJZD4HeQc3ZQe1yJF5321CeH4ZhCatUIQ/s200/SublimeStitching.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525057379810112354" border="0" /></a><br />After such a beautiful WARM week, September turned into October, turned into fall! Luckily, it's still sunny, but cools in the evening and is getting dark earlier - which means stitching time! Time to bring out the <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Christmas ornament</span> designs we meant to make last year (or, we have lots of new ones here from which you can choose!) - in time for our annual contest! Entries are due November 27, and can be cross stitched, beaded, blackwork or Hardanger, and need not be original - just tell us where the design is from because people want to know - and we have a new tree upon which to hang them!<br /><br />It's our 20th year! - but we've only had - 2? - 4? - trees - they do last pretty well. We've wanted the convenience of a pre-lit tree for several years now (at home the sweet hubby does the lights - here it's Sandy's NOT favorite task), and finally found a great deal after <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Christmas</span> last year, hurray! Still, Sandy's hoping Reta will have it all set up on Nov. 26, while she's still gone on vacation. :-)<br /><br />Even if you don't enter, do come in to see them and vote on people's choice, and get some great finishing ideas. There's a gift for everyone who enters, plus prizes for three places and people's choice. Our perennial second place winner has moved out of the area - will she mail one in?? :-)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">NEW NEW NEW</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Debbie Mumm</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Dancing Reindeer</span> kits from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mill Hil</span>l; <span style="font-style: italic;">Fjord Ponies</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ink Circles</span>; new <span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">thread</span> colors from <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Gentle Art</span>; new <span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">fabric</span> colors from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Picture This Plus</span> (ask about our <span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">Surprise monthly fabric</span> - you choose the type, count and size cut, we choose the color); annual <span style="font-style: italic;">Santas</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lizzie Kate</span> - socks and underwear anyone!? :-)<br /><br />There are new designs from the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stitching Studio</span>, birds and animals with their native Alaskan counterparts; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Alma Lynne</span>'s <span style="font-style: italic;">state samplers</span> and "She Who Buys The Most Fabric Wins", <span style="font-style: italic;">Clementine Cloth Collector</span>! is back; <span style="font-style: italic;">Bewitching Cross Stitch</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Joan Elliott</span>; fabulous <span style="font-style: italic;">Laurel Burch bags</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nordic Needle</span>; and as always, these are just the tip of the iceberg. And that "Yucky, Yummy" at the top? - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sublime Stitching</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">embroidery designs</span> ("Not your mother's embroidery") are now available to us through Hoffman (see link at right). Check them out! Come in to see what's new!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">VACATION</span><br /><br />Sandy will be gone October 22 and 23, and November 12 - 26; the shop will be staffed each of those days from 11 to 3, so please don't hesitate to stop in - special orders are always accessible, too.Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-87729931804633945542010-01-08T10:37:00.000-08:002010-01-08T10:39:35.463-08:00Literacy ThREAD Free Bookmark Designs<embed src="http://static.issuu.com/webembed/viewers/style1/v1/IssuuViewer.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" menu="false" quality="high" scale="noscale" salign="l" flashvars="mode=embed&viewMode=presentation&layout=http%3A%2F%2Fsandystitch.blogspot.com&showFlipBtn=true&documentId=091103011431-a130a20b2b074d849748a0cd4426d78d&docName=syho_freebie_issuu&username=LTSNeedlework&loadingInfoText=SYHO%20~%20Literacy%20and%20ThREAD%20Campaign&et=1262975773037&er=19" style="width:420px;height:544px" name="flashticker" align="middle"></embed>Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-7191330609530338962009-12-04T14:17:00.000-08:002009-12-04T15:53:16.239-08:00Winter 2009<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWKWUW1briQAxUAY1Gb2SfEnK6BtKLLjeZvCFRaNgZv7ZaJMLmHT1nqpHu0G1dai9aM_yd5mR5Mgv1roWhiXazGqzjPN3Zm8bhxH8h9YN4jXlO47uWJFtwWDg4vohBuV_VkqyoYQ/s1600-h/DSCN7444.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWKWUW1briQAxUAY1Gb2SfEnK6BtKLLjeZvCFRaNgZv7ZaJMLmHT1nqpHu0G1dai9aM_yd5mR5Mgv1roWhiXazGqzjPN3Zm8bhxH8h9YN4jXlO47uWJFtwWDg4vohBuV_VkqyoYQ/s200/DSCN7444.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411522638309297538" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAH4Bp1zv2hJdpuzPp2Xfx43X1UVNUNVO0k9_IIGGpfmIwY403HjBebIz-ER2j__P3N-JT2urPGfGzpdrjfl1CyLoZ47aeHMBQnsbqR6ShvQOiWtTYWjL_zAxQCXDmmZPmuRZyYw/s1600-h/DSCN7441.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAH4Bp1zv2hJdpuzPp2Xfx43X1UVNUNVO0k9_IIGGpfmIwY403HjBebIz-ER2j__P3N-JT2urPGfGzpdrjfl1CyLoZ47aeHMBQnsbqR6ShvQOiWtTYWjL_zAxQCXDmmZPmuRZyYw/s200/DSCN7441.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411522099185026114" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUrkVZq7R-THN4hHYPxtD9HnK1sfIpG_7mG4WZXj4tz7B-BI8RN_K_YyFIuyTNnhK8uvdZ32kIR8eW8U3OGIZj8wdaKJPGJ09lbckVdNlVhlJJqFObCjY7RpvD87L1r9yqtMRDw/s1600-h/DSCN7439.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUrkVZq7R-THN4hHYPxtD9HnK1sfIpG_7mG4WZXj4tz7B-BI8RN_K_YyFIuyTNnhK8uvdZ32kIR8eW8U3OGIZj8wdaKJPGJ09lbckVdNlVhlJJqFObCjY7RpvD87L1r9yqtMRDw/s200/DSCN7439.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411521582554927874" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP12dfp7ATJXY_h7mp6cSYBMgiMzj3oJFt2HoDiaj7pkEOh8HoQhRT4hcWdptz3j-Sf-TlGs2h6IoMZmmxWM9Lfcz9BXx2BxNLnUJVnUwyD1rLcA5r_-RM4lzIi1DHxbSNgCpLYg/s1600-h/DSCN7438.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP12dfp7ATJXY_h7mp6cSYBMgiMzj3oJFt2HoDiaj7pkEOh8HoQhRT4hcWdptz3j-Sf-TlGs2h6IoMZmmxWM9Lfcz9BXx2BxNLnUJVnUwyD1rLcA5r_-RM4lzIi1DHxbSNgCpLYg/s200/DSCN7438.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411518033618333506" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Can you believe Christmas is almost here? We're so busy rehearsing for Christmas programs, making Christmas ornaments, partying, there's been no time to reflect on the season. Maybe next week. :-)<br /><br />Pictured are some Christmas treasures - there's been a lot of stitching going on! Come vote for People's Choice on the Christmas ornaments; the judges (stitchers Kim Boldt, Teri Shelquist and Rhonda Jabaay, thank you all so much!) chose June Haney's Christmas card for first place ($15 gift certificate), Mary Crichton's cat on the fireplace for second place ($10 gift certificate) and Corliss Marsh's pocket snowman for third place ($5 gift certificate). The People's Choice winner always gets something special - it's a wait and see...:-) All entries receive a gift as well. Start now for next year! The first ornament in Little House's new series is here - Fa La La, carolers in the snow.<br /><br />There are lots of new patterns in stock, and always more coming; choose a gift certificate so you can choose an after-Christmas project! Fair warning - we MAY be closed on Christmas Eve, so guys (meaning husbands, etc.), don't wait that long! We also have a new shipment just in of Laurel Burch bags - perfect for toting your projects and/or assorted paraphernalia around town and yonder. They are SWEET!<br /><br />We want to thank you for your continued support - we wouldn't still be here without you! We know it's getting harder to keep our spending local, but we try to have what you need, or get it as quickly as we can. Remember that for every dollar spent in an independently owned store, 68 cents returns to the community; only 43 cents spent in a national chain stays here (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). And probably - definitely?! - zero remains when we shop online. Instant gratification is expensive!, even if it may seem cheap as we click our dollars away.<br /><br />So, enough sermonizing - enjoy the holidays! Eat, shop, stitch, and remember the reason for the season.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoAtwtlrgNU9k-6mcVOhiE55df71isCpw7OavdwfZV9KrklG1LVRY6g3UzLHojyIpe0FqXxb8Ogw3BOZ-wpGp22_VYooWUTDwbxJNvZUynznKGR1nnVffPQCxYxXMis0PSFS9lRA/s1600-h/DSCN7434.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoAtwtlrgNU9k-6mcVOhiE55df71isCpw7OavdwfZV9KrklG1LVRY6g3UzLHojyIpe0FqXxb8Ogw3BOZ-wpGp22_VYooWUTDwbxJNvZUynznKGR1nnVffPQCxYxXMis0PSFS9lRA/s200/DSCN7434.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411517404394935298" border="0" /></a>Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-4032025978675614082009-08-27T15:10:00.000-07:002009-08-27T16:40:45.342-07:00Fall is coming!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZYr-H9cXaqf_y8qX5nQ65aTrG1GjVB9L4AiMHpECdHL3SYNThgy4Pkd_jcbdRHGvHfe41pYGz2xF9XvHfB9i5ad-KSHYpUhQWnCB-JeTvutNZDx6aiWg1wo1MFaE7GGygIO_4oA/s1600-h/DSCN7428.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZYr-H9cXaqf_y8qX5nQ65aTrG1GjVB9L4AiMHpECdHL3SYNThgy4Pkd_jcbdRHGvHfe41pYGz2xF9XvHfB9i5ad-KSHYpUhQWnCB-JeTvutNZDx6aiWg1wo1MFaE7GGygIO_4oA/s200/DSCN7428.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374775330298907986" border="0" /></a><br />Although here it is in the 90's again - but when it cools off at night into the 50's and 60's, you know it won't be long...Of course, that's OK by me, it means it's time to make Christmas gifts!, and ornaments, and cards...maybe some cookies...:-) The <span style="font-weight: bold;">Just Cross Stitch</span> Ornament issue should be coming soon - lots of great ideas (and recipes! :-) for contest entries. Let's make this year's tree loaded with your ornaments!<br /><br />(Photo is local stitcher <span style="font-weight: bold;">Diane Keilman</span> with her recently completed <span style="font-weight: bold;">Serendipity</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Nativity</span>, outstanding!)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mill Hill</span>'s newest kits are darling, ornaments and magnets, <span style="font-style: italic;">Arctic Circle Santas</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Jim Shore Santas</span>, the beaded and buttoned kit assortment...all self-contained, reasonably priced and quick to finish. The latest <span style="font-weight: bold;">Prairie Schoole</span>r set is in, and they're wonderful, animals, spooky creatures, Santas...and all simple and quick to stitch, and as one stitcher pointed out, they use consistent color schemes - no new thread to buy!<br /><br />Samplers are again surging in popularity, and many new ones are here with more to come; we also have new Celtic designs, flowers, baby patterns, fairies, new <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lizzie Kates</span> - and we're waiting to see what their new <span style="font-style: italic;">DoubleFlip</span> series will be, now that we're finishing the current <span style="font-style: italic;">Merry Christmas</span> series.<br /><br />We also have some yummy new fabrics, threads, beads and buttons to embellish your work and frames; your imagination can run wild. :-)<br /><br />And now for some whimsy...you may have heard of them...<br /><br /><em><span style="font-weight: bold;">Biscornu</span></em> is a French adjective that means "that which has an irregular form, with projections" or "complicated and bizarre." <div><div class="s"> </div> <div class="s"><br />Biscornus are interesting little eight-sided pincushions that have become very popular in recent months. The word biscornu (sometimes written biscournu) is derived from a French adjective, meaning skewed, quirky, or irregular, literally, "two-horned". Sandy made two for the Wasco County Fair, one a pincushion and one an ornament. One of our Hood River stitchers has even made large ones into doorstops! Any square or round design can work - and you can use up scraps of fabric and odd bits of thread or leftover beads and buttons - the ultimate recycled gift!<br /><br />Our Idaho neighbor, My Big Toe Designs, has these wonderful tutorials on her website:<br /><br /><style></style><a href="http://www.mybigtoedesigns.com/Tutorials/Tutorial_Biscornu.htm">http://www.mybigtoedesigns.com/Tutorials/Tutorial_Biscornu.htm</a><br /></div></div><br /><style></style><a href="http://www.mybigtoedesigns.com/Tutorials/Tutorial_Ornament.htm">http://www.mybigtoedesigns.com/Tutorials/Tutorial_Ornament.htm</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">VACATION</span> for Sandy: Sept. 1 through 7, Sept. 17 through October 5; <span style="font-weight: bold;">SHOP WILL BE STAFFED</span> Tues. through Sat. 11 to 3 during that time, so don't hesitate to come in! We NEED your support, and thank you heartily for thinking of us first for your needlework needs and desires! We know how easy to is to "go online" - but it's very difficult to to compete with all "they" have to offer and that "instant gratification". We try to fill that need, too - please check us out and let us order for you!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Closed for Labor Day</span> weekend, Sept. 5-7. Picnic! Hike! Swim! Play croquet with your kids/grandkids! And don't forget to stitch a little. :-)Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-39915346282748042282009-03-10T11:45:00.000-07:002009-03-14T13:16:12.832-07:00Winter/Spring?!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXDbrA9ddu5Utm_JUMXz5Z2ZyxnSGOrse59rucvUEQ-yI0DMMbrYKQ1blediXjtTso-cMsq4LevbYi9WiLJbvgNSE40I35b853AuIjdfxHrkrnoYdftj38joLvMzW8rmYYWF9Asg/s1600-h/DSCN7372.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXDbrA9ddu5Utm_JUMXz5Z2ZyxnSGOrse59rucvUEQ-yI0DMMbrYKQ1blediXjtTso-cMsq4LevbYi9WiLJbvgNSE40I35b853AuIjdfxHrkrnoYdftj38joLvMzW8rmYYWF9Asg/s200/DSCN7372.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311634532169523138" border="0" /></a><br />It's March and there's new snow...too bizarre. But, for Sandy it's just more good stitchin' time! And after the Nashville show, there are many new things to stitch! Stop in to see the bounty - and the new samples we've stitched. We especially love <span style="font-style: italic;">"Live Simply"</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">"Crabby All Year"</span>! Next up are <span style="font-style: italic;">Monthly Mockeries</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Raise the Roof</span> ("I know you are but what am I?" - sounds just like Sandy's little brothers!), <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lizzie Kate</span>'s <span style="font-style: italic;">DoubleFlips for Halloween</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nora Corbett</span>'s fairy Letter A (<span style="font-style: italic;">Letters from Nora</span>).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mill Hill</span>'s newest kits are in stock, and more are coming soon - snowmen from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jim Shore</span> - maybe they'll ward off more snow! The flower and vegetable bead and button kits are wonderfully bright, the spring magnets fun and appetizing! - a hot fudge sundae!, popcorn, root beer float...yum!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stoney Creek</span> has several great new books including bib designs for the new bright bibs from <span style="font-weight: bold;">STS Crafts</span>, made in Brazil, <span style="font-style: italic;">Pets with Attitude</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Vintage Cycles</span>; <span style="font-style: italic;">Quaker</span> designs abound (see photo) and are really fun to stitch; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nora Corbett</span> (<span style="font-weight: bold;">Mirabilia</span>) continues her fairy alphabet series as well as a new <span style="font-style: italic;">Santa, his sleigh and reindeer</span> - we love <span style="font-style: italic;">Rudolph</span>!<br /><br />We brought back lots of new free designs from Nashville, too - and there are many sources online as well. Try one or two as a bookmark for your <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Bookmark Challenge</span>! We'd be happy to give you remnants to stitch on, or we also have pre-made bookmarks and lots of colors of perforated paper to use. Encourage a young reader - it's a small gift that will mean a lot. Plus, we're giving prizes! Upon further reading, we see Nordic Needle is again doing their $100 gift certificate drawing, so if you'd rather, we'll send them there so you can get in that drawing. Deadline for that will be May 1, 2009; for bookmarks that will stay in our area, you have until May 30 - and yes, you can stitch for both! :-)<br /><br />ONLINE TRADE SHOW - The spring show is coming up, April 15 - 20; do check it out. There are always lots of designers we don't see anywhere else - it's where we found those "naughty words" (see below) last year! :-) Then be sure to let us know if there's something we can get for you. Some have minimums, but we'll try our best to accomodate you.<br /><br />CELEBRITY CROSS STITCH! They say celebrities attract people to their hobbies - think Vanna White. :-) Finally we read of an actress who stitches! Miranda Richardson ("Harry Potter", "The Phantom of the Opera", "Enchanted April", "Blackadder", dozens more) found the perfect way to pass the time when she isn't in front of the cameras during 12 hour days of filming - "I spent my time cross stitching." She goes on to say she stitches "naughty words onto handerkerchiefs" - hmm, we can get those! :-)<br /><br />AND ON THE RED CARPET - Paris Fashion Week, March 2009; Christian Dior's collection by designer John Galliano included "dove grey suits trimmed with fur, and featuring bubble hems, caught with CROSS STITCHING! How cool is that?!Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-74620390699950917092008-12-04T15:19:00.000-08:002008-12-04T15:40:51.611-08:00HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5fjjmHzaX_jcClS2Sb5NqXUi7xGa0pDEdChiiF20J21oH2wQBZFwifef_yXpXfA5M_OgwrDOeSwNVVCNOaYNNvgtIadSkkAL56iwgkMETtwGLmuI6dqUKmBR3f9c-4E5uDl5-Q/s1600-h/HalloweenDoubleFlips150.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 73px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5fjjmHzaX_jcClS2Sb5NqXUi7xGa0pDEdChiiF20J21oH2wQBZFwifef_yXpXfA5M_OgwrDOeSwNVVCNOaYNNvgtIadSkkAL56iwgkMETtwGLmuI6dqUKmBR3f9c-4E5uDl5-Q/s200/HalloweenDoubleFlips150.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276083724987742466" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRXhI3YioVjg_l68rMaO3HNF7YCYuJGZFvo6akOtq5WvTDBadqMPCk6xdQMN65S1kBCuNDxuWx2FO1heJnuE-I9OylZBqIzSBe38_l5pNSX-FLd6WXG6Pb2a8BJFqnLw4H8PqIJg/s1600-h/P1000238.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRXhI3YioVjg_l68rMaO3HNF7YCYuJGZFvo6akOtq5WvTDBadqMPCk6xdQMN65S1kBCuNDxuWx2FO1heJnuE-I9OylZBqIzSBe38_l5pNSX-FLd6WXG6Pb2a8BJFqnLw4H8PqIJg/s200/P1000238.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276083420542172114" border="0" /></a><br />Here's the Christmas tree with 2008's nine fabulous ornament entries (hot pink tagged); stop by to see it! And, here's the first set of Lizzie Kate's DoubleFlips for 2009; some of you weren't able to access the link for some reason. Computers - phooey!, I'd rather stitch anyway! (ONE of the reasons for the slowness of posting the blog...)<br /><br />It's such a busy season - with house guests to pamper, songs to sing, concerts to attend, cards to write, cookies to bake, presents to wrap, gifts to finish! Back to stitching!! Please do stop by to see what's new...Sandy really has to work on this snake...! :-)<br /><br />(I'm so glad the false flap about "Happy Holidays" has "left the building"; Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, Happy Chanukah (we DO have Jewish friends, after all), ETC., don't all fit in a headline!)<br /><br />May yours be merry and bright, and may your retirement funds come back big time in 2009! :-)Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-5722577561932041792008-08-02T15:37:00.000-07:002008-08-02T15:49:02.150-07:00Just a Quick Hello<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwwslVvwVh3lnKlwofrFUpAFQc6gQgo2Q3V7g38mTgekkkolLPO5I7LfIULVRvwBSbOa8dhRi3CeKK-wLZr8KBSQ_L3szfTFrpH1ORiPezKLQYaqfP08tiLt95DuopeToNbsoANw/s1600-h/IMG_0479.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwwslVvwVh3lnKlwofrFUpAFQc6gQgo2Q3V7g38mTgekkkolLPO5I7LfIULVRvwBSbOa8dhRi3CeKK-wLZr8KBSQ_L3szfTFrpH1ORiPezKLQYaqfP08tiLt95DuopeToNbsoANw/s200/IMG_0479.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230055498412544002" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I received a message that this blog might be spam - !!, so am posting just to keep from being - deleted?? Too strange. Maybe that message was spam! :-)<br /><br />Back from our Cascade Singers trip - one photo attached (most of the group in a ring fort - where we sang "Home in the Rock"!). Still stitching!, working on county fair projects...did lots of eyelets on my Hardanger table runner while on the tour bus!Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-28716971764807283082008-06-07T10:36:00.000-07:002008-06-07T16:23:15.199-07:00Summer??<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQyKrK8D0DHuSSzbs1ZlVIjWyzTWcFCyPdFDUjQrKVK4y8s3vrrInXcHfFQ7jEZv-7Ds6qtjYH-dvgabduKnlXXT0cZSxpc_sEyFYSs1rrSRHver3ylsnhJrWPl0BqOBzw19gCA/s1600-h/P1010024.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQyKrK8D0DHuSSzbs1ZlVIjWyzTWcFCyPdFDUjQrKVK4y8s3vrrInXcHfFQ7jEZv-7Ds6qtjYH-dvgabduKnlXXT0cZSxpc_sEyFYSs1rrSRHver3ylsnhJrWPl0BqOBzw19gCA/s200/P1010024.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5209207878947538066" border="0" /></a><br />Erratic weather, that's what it is. Our back yard <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">cherry</span> tree still has <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">green</span> cherries on it! We're eating lots of garden <span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">strawberries</span>, though, and the<span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"> birds</span> are leaving them alone - because they're off hunting for ripening cherries elsewhere?? (Two of Sandy's favorite cross stitched pieces are her<span style="font-style: italic;"> Strawberry Sampler</span> from <span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102); font-weight: bold;">Blackbird Designs</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Cherries Crate Label</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">American School of Needlework</span> - wonder why? :-)<br /><br />The aboriginal design pictured is Sandy's "souvenir" from last September's trip to Australia and New Zealand - <span style="font-style: italic;">Aboriginal</span> by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Prairie Moon</span> (<span style="font-weight: bold;">Hog River</span> frame), a favorite designer - we have most of their new patterns in stock. This and <span style="font-style: italic;">Native American</span> are the first in their new <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">International Folk Art</span> series.<br /><br />Speaking of last September's trip - Sandy's been making greeting cards from her photos - check them out, here at the shop.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">NEW, NEW, NEW!!</span><br /><br />We sent an email about <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lizzie Kate</span>'s new <span style="font-style: italic;">Double Flip</span> series for <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Christmas</span>, but another favorite is <span style="font-style: italic;">Housework Never Killed Anyone</span> - come see it to find out why not! Other new favorites are <span style="font-weight: bold;">Primrose Needlewor</span>k's <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 255);">Mum's the Word</span>; </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Little House Needlework</span>'s <span style="font-style: italic;">The Rain Fell</span> (that's appropriate!); <span style="font-weight: bold;">Country Cottage Needlework</span>'s <span style="font-style: italic;">Joyful Summer; Mouse Hunt </span>from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lynn's Prints</span>; <span style="font-style: italic;">Seeds of Kindness</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">By the Bay Needleart; Spring Fever</span> and others from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cinnamon Ca</span>t, an English designer; <span style="font-style: italic;">April Showers</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Praiseworthy Stitches</span><span style="font-style: italic;">; </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Brooke's Books</span>' <span style="font-style: italic;">Spirit of the Bride</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dutch Treat Designs</span>' <span style="font-style: italic;">God Bless Our Home </span><span>and <span style="font-style: italic;">The Lord is My Shepherd</span></span>, all designed for <span style="color: rgb(153, 102, 51);">perforated paper</span>; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nora Corbett</span>'s latest <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">reindeer</span> and her new <span style="font-style: italic;">alphabet series,</span> A, B and C so far- these are fabulous - see them on Wichelt or Hoffman, as they're just out and not in stock yet; <span style="font-weight: bold;"> Four Leaf Clover </span>from<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">Rosewood Manor; </span>many new <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">baby samplers</span>, including a book from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stoney Cree</span>k - and their new <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Dragons & Wizards</span>; A Dog's Life I </span>and <span style="font-style: italic;">II</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">X's & Oh's</span>; and last (not really, just have to quit somewhere!) <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Birds & Blossoms</span> and the superb <span style="font-style: italic;">Virtue Samplers</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Homespun Elegance</span>. Sandy's got a lot to stitch!!!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);">FREE, FREE, FREE!!</span><br /><br />The teapot series from Just Another Button Company is adorable - one each month! There are lots of other freebies, too...come 'n' get 'em!, please! :-)<br /><br />If you enjoy Michael Powell's designs as much as we do, log onto his website, join as a member and have access to some darling free patterns - the latest is the Greek Window. No half or quarter stitches, easily done on aida if you choose - sweet!<br /><br />And while they last, we still have some birthday gifts for you...OUR 17th birthday!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">VACATION!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Sandy's off to Ireland and the U.K. to sing with Cascade Singers June 28, back in the shop on July 22. The shop WILL BE OPEN 11 Am to 3 PM each working day except July 5, so do stop in!! Orders will come in and you'll be called if you have an order arrive. Also feel free to call, 541-296-3939. Email will be stopped during that time.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /></span>Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-44661851582610781492008-04-03T13:25:00.000-07:002008-04-03T13:29:47.920-07:00Who Knew?!<p>I thought I was the only one - ! Of course, we don't have major league ball here, but we certainly do have baseball!<br /><span style="font-size:100%;color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span></p><p><br /><span style="font-size:100%;color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><img alt="" src="http://www.tnna.org/Portals/1/SNP_07/snp.photos.web/Title-ONLY.w.jpg" height="17" width="131" /></span></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"><em>Promote Needlearts — Celebrate Traditions — Strengthen Community</em></span></span></span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"><br /></span></p> <p><em><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"><a href="http://stitchnpitch.com/"></a><br /></span></em></p> <p><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"> <table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1" width="150"> <tbody> <tr> <td><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"><img alt="" src="http://www.tnna.org/Portals/1/SNP_07/What.caption.p.w.jpg" align="left" height="100" hspace="3" width="150" /></span></td> </tr> <tr align="center"> <td><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:78%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Celebrating the needlearts<br /> & baseball!</span></span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">WHAT is Stitch N’ Pitch?</span><br />Stitch N’ Pitch brings together two wonderful traditions – Baseball and the Needlearts. Every season, Major League Baseball (MLB) and The National Needlearts Association (TNNA) hold Stitch N</span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;">’ </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;">Pitch events. Fans sit together in a special section, work on their crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery, knitting or needlepoint projects, cheer on their favorite team, and celebrate the needlearts. Our events attract a unique mix of folk — men, women, boys, girls, old, young, stitchers and baseball fans. <a href="http://www.stitchnpitch.com/pix/slideshow/photogallery.asp">Click here for Stitch N’ Pitch Gallery</a>. At each ballpark, there is a Stitch N’ Pitch Expo that may include demonstrations, giveaways or needlearts contests.<br /><br /><table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1" width="150"> <tbody> <tr> <td><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><img alt="" src="http://www.tnna.org/Portals/1/SNP_07/Why.caption.p.w.jpg" height="100" width="150" /></span></span></td> </tr> <tr align="center"> <td><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:78%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Needlearts gets media coverage<span style="font-size:85%;">!</span></span></span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"> </span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">WHY Stitch N’ Pitch? </span> </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"> </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"><br /><a href="http://www.stitchnpitch.com/"> Stitch N’ Pitch</a> is one of TNNA's successful outreach programs that creates high visibility of the needlearts within the general public. The event is fun and quirky and gets us some important recognition. In 2007, we had over 15,000 fans attend our events with major national press coverage in media outlets like <a href="http://stitchnpitch.com/snpmedia.asp">New York Times, Washington Post, Sports Illustrated, and The Associated Press</a>. We have had over 2 million hits to our <a href="http://%20www.stitchnpitch.com/">Stitch N’ Pitch website</a> from interested fans from all over the world!<br /><br /><table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1" width="150"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img alt="" src="http://www.tnna.org/Portals/1/SNP_07/Who.caption.p.w.jpg" height="100" width="150" /></td> </tr> <tr align="center"> <td><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:78%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">TNNA members, guilds,<br /> groups and more participate<span style="font-size:85%;">!</span></span></span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">WHO makes Stitch N’ Pitch Happen?</span><br /></span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;">Each metropolitan area has a local Stitch N’ Pitch Committee that works with the MLB Team to promote each event. </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"> Committees are comprise of TNNA members, guilds, and other interested groups who see the value in this program.<br /><br /></span></p> <p><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">WHEN and WHERE is Stitch N’ Pitch?</span> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1" width="150"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img alt="" src="http://www.tnna.org/Portals/1/SNP_07/Where.caption.p.w.jpg" height="100" width="150" /></td> </tr> <tr align="center"> <td><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:78%;">At the ballpark!</span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"><br />The baseball season runs from April to October. More than 85% of MLB Teams (> 25 Teams) are holding a <a href="http://www.stitchnpitch.com/">Stitch N’ Pitch</a> in 2008 in major metropolitan areas! In 2008, TNNA is expanding the program to Stitch N’ Pitch at Minor League Baseball (MiLB) venues across the country. To find a Stitch N’ Pitch event near you check out our <a href="http://www.stitchnpitch.com/">Calendar Schedule</a>.<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> <table style="width: 151px; height: 75px;" align="left" border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"> <tbody> <tr> <td><br /></td> </tr> <tr align="center"> <td><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"><br /></span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </span></span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span> </span></p>Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-48874073709121583632008-04-02T15:08:00.000-07:002008-04-02T15:55:57.789-07:00Spring Cleaning?!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOxki-68CcoBSax-0ZFeGJ0ZL-LVNwYP5F8FCwrwm48nloCnNNAiyjpEShprRa4MhZwvULGnK7RLIPT6ye6IxqqphUr4zSto_OKMgFpDfJ6pSubvrDyYWINmkkbnU_eBsKgFP4QQ/s1600-h/DSCN7136.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOxki-68CcoBSax-0ZFeGJ0ZL-LVNwYP5F8FCwrwm48nloCnNNAiyjpEShprRa4MhZwvULGnK7RLIPT6ye6IxqqphUr4zSto_OKMgFpDfJ6pSubvrDyYWINmkkbnU_eBsKgFP4QQ/s200/DSCN7136.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5184780769644997682" border="0" /></a><br />WHAT?! Who wants to do that when there's stitching to be done? But this is advice from Nordic Needle's newsletter about cleaning your needlework:<br /><p><br />As a follow-up to a previous discussion, Frances D. from Minnesota wrote. “In late August I wrote to ask for help in cleaning my cross-stitch pieces that had been damaged by a faulty furnace that created an oily soot on everything in my sewing room. I got several helpful responses from your readers, but the tip that worked the best for me was from Sherryl who suggested using Murphy's Oil Soap. I was unable to find the Murphy's Oil spray as she suggested, but I diluted the regular kind and followed her directions otherwise. In case someone else should encounter a similar problem, this is what I did."</p><p>Sounds extreme, but it worked!</p><p><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-weight: bold;">Spring into action</span>: There's still plenty of time to stitch <span style="font-weight: bold;">Habitat for Humanity</span> pillows, from a free design by Count Your Blessings, for the annual auction (in August) - a quick and fun design, and a painless donation to your community. We'll even give you a remnant to use!</p><p><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-weight: bold;">Spring</span> a bookmark on an unsuspecting reader! <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Bookmark Challenge</span> is in full swing - and we have free patterns and remnants - you could win a $100 gift certificate from <span style="font-style: italic;">Nordic Needle</span>! Just have them to Sandy's by April 30.<br /></p><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Spring</span> is also the time to think of Moms and weddings, graduations and dads (and baseball?! - we watched our neighbor's son pitch in last night's Little League opening game, and were reminded of how we miss those frequent evenings at the COLD ballpark - and all the "down" time Sandy used to stitch there!). There are plenty of wonderful things to stitch for all those occasions (even baseball!), and we'd love to show you some - new designs from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lizzie Kate</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Prairie Schooler</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Silver Lining</span> (pictured above, Sandy and <span style="font-style: italic;">Marc Saastad</span>, designer), <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mirabilia</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lavender & Lace</span>, so many more. <p><br /></p><p>Also check out the <span style="font-style: italic;">semi-annual online trade show</span> with over <span style="font-weight: bold;">120 vendors</span>!, April 16 - 21, daily doorprizes, things you'll not see elsewhere that we can get for you. <span><a href="http://needleworkshow.com/"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;" >http://needleworkshow.com</span></a></span></p><p><span><a href="http://needleworkshow.com/"><span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></a></span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><br /></span>Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-81202883199722871552008-02-15T15:45:00.000-08:002008-02-15T16:13:17.268-08:00Nashville News<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJldPTKT5Y-NJZxu2aY5Ssx1zvLNRZ2eN4JL1UgvoxumulrOOL7Ms0gjUnXjWnk0F_tVTkQYOzS9FE8UnJr-cT7ypQMxn0JFuHH8VWyY9INrBgM8WTHQx2bTX0jA_ya4ygQtXhDA/s1600-h/DSCN7135.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJldPTKT5Y-NJZxu2aY5Ssx1zvLNRZ2eN4JL1UgvoxumulrOOL7Ms0gjUnXjWnk0F_tVTkQYOzS9FE8UnJr-cT7ypQMxn0JFuHH8VWyY9INrBgM8WTHQx2bTX0jA_ya4ygQtXhDA/s200/DSCN7135.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5167362679053785858" border="0" /></a><br />What a fun trip! There's always so much to see and BUY at this trade show - and the flights and drives were smooth - AND we got to have lunch in Minnesota (four hour layover!) with Sandy's Dad (Mom was ill), youngest brother and oldest sister-in-law - at the "destination" Mall of America, since you can't even meet for coffee at the Minneapolis airport these days. (The site of the Mall was the Minnesota Twins' stadium when Sandy grew up there, oh so long ago - a conversation with a security checker about that caused quite a delay... :-)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: verdana; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Come in to see</span> what we brought back - with more arriving via the usual shipping channels. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Weeks Dye Works</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Gentle Art</span> have <span style="font-style: italic;">new threads</span>; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Picture This Plus</span> as new hand dyed <span style="font-style: italic;">fabrics</span>; <span style="font-weight: bold;">X's and Oh's</span> has a wonderful <span style="font-style: italic;">2009(!) calendar</span> out already; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Glendon Place</span> has several beautiful monochromatic designs with lovely sayings; new <span style="font-style: italic;">children's kits</span> called <span style="font-style: italic;">"Grandma and Me"</span> by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Designs from Pamela</span> will provide a change of pace for those precious beginners; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hob Nobbs</span> to delight as always, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Val's Stuff</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rosewood Manor</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Eric Michaels</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hands to Work</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">La D Da</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Brittercup</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">SamSarah</span>, cute, cute, cute!! (There are flyers to peruse if you're not into cute. :-)<br /><br />Then there's <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sisters and Best Friends</span> - they are now two companies (<span style="font-weight: bold;">AB Designs</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wildflower Stitchery</span>), but still friends - so they have twice the cute (sorry, I'm just into cute!)!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" ><br />Habitat for Humanity project</span> - We have ten stitched pieces already! <span style="font-weight: bold;">Count Your Blessings</span> sent us a dozen Mary Engelbreit fabric tuckaway pillows, what a great start! She also sent a gift for each stitcher - and we have some left, so do bring in your stitched piece - no need to do any finishing! We're hoping to raise a nice piece of change for our local organization.Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-39113386999597470812007-12-05T14:43:00.000-08:002007-12-05T15:02:45.541-08:00Christmas is coming!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwjOGww1MHDWQXO8fnJb6cOHA5jfGLFSj1IKzd9Kc3OI0HTCvpMYx5d-OhNjHN9T1Boxc_SwcpiMoK30rYKFAUJ6z5x4CS8uMpU49Kl0yRW459t5FSfPc9hzcS01GPuvQzp51Gag/s1600-h/DSCN6525.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwjOGww1MHDWQXO8fnJb6cOHA5jfGLFSj1IKzd9Kc3OI0HTCvpMYx5d-OhNjHN9T1Boxc_SwcpiMoK30rYKFAUJ6z5x4CS8uMpU49Kl0yRW459t5FSfPc9hzcS01GPuvQzp51Gag/s200/DSCN6525.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5140626624947648610" border="0" /></a>Still, we have three weeks to finish our projects!, so don't lose heart. Sandy's still working on her grandkids' ornaments, and just started a small picture for her dad - three weeks, plenty of time!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">ORNAMENT CONTEST WINNERS</span> - First place, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mary Crichton</span>, $15 gift certificate; second place, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Reta Holland</span>, $10 gift certificate; third place, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Linda Berry</span>, $5 gift certificate. Each entrant also received a special gift for entering - start now for next year! :-) Come see them, vote on your favorite, and check out our wonderful tree full of handmade ornaments, with lots of easy ideas for finishing.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BOOKMARK CHALLENGE </span>- We didn't have many to turn in this time, but we have another chance come spring - Sandy's happy to give you remnants and free patterns if you'd like to participate - you could win a $100 gift certificate from Nordic Needle! The bookmarks are given to kids all over the country to encourage them to read - a doubly good reason to stitch!<br /><br />Don't forget our after Christmas sale, stating at <span style="font-weight: bold;">11 AM Dec. 26</span>!<br /><br />[Photo is a quick cancer survivor design from <span style="font-style: italic;">Count Your Blessings</span>, with Sandy's friend and survivor, Ceecee.]<br /><br />This is a brief post because there's much stitching to be done - but we have lots of quick to finish designs here, and even some pre-Christmas half price Mill Hill ornament kits from past years! Stop in!Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-1792516606883695812007-10-05T11:34:00.000-07:002007-10-05T12:00:01.001-07:00Computer Crashed!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAJevrWR69NiRxWIremBLcXs2NCHKpqCxdaPBSc3SwH6lL0jLosAXfDJxUW96EaZL2Ea_QjRi6qc0VtjBl9E9yn1PHd03mUzX3E0NzJUzJPmTwBhXaWYiKWp3l27wwIDMZghH8Kw/s1600-h/DSCN1593.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAJevrWR69NiRxWIremBLcXs2NCHKpqCxdaPBSc3SwH6lL0jLosAXfDJxUW96EaZL2Ea_QjRi6qc0VtjBl9E9yn1PHd03mUzX3E0NzJUzJPmTwBhXaWYiKWp3l27wwIDMZghH8Kw/s200/DSCN1593.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5117929092368423922" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">"This wasn't supposed to happen to me!"</span> The Geekster (a local computer repair service) echoed my exact words - it's what everyone says. BUT I had everything backed up - BUT it's not there! I still don't understand it, but have been in the process of fixing and re-entering everything I can find - which does not include a lot of email and snail mail addresses for all of YOU! Please send us an email when you read this so you can also be resurrected - sandystitch@gorge.net - THANKS!!<br /><br />Meanwhile, life goes on, and merchandise continues to arrive - stop by to see what's new! Fabrics, books - Halloween and fall designs, Thanksgiving and Christmas - there are lots of beautiful new things to stitch! And some of us are doing baby samplers, again! Sandy's expecting grandchild #5 just before Thanksgiving, is doing the "high chair baby" from <span style="font-style: italic;">Imaginating</span>'s <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gift From God</span> leaflet - because the baby looks so much like all of her grandkids, so adorable, <span style="font-style: italic;">of course</span>! :-) (You can see it on Hoffman.)<br /><br />Also, watch for our new website at www.sandys-stitch-niche.com - right now it looks like graph paper - not bad, but it's a pretty blank chart! :-) (The address works with or without the dashes - please add it to your favorites, and we'll let you know here [or by email if we have your address] when it's functional.)Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-39345510257923179032007-08-09T14:07:00.000-07:002007-08-15T16:18:46.451-07:00Summer's Flying By!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtOwIjYUssluAwYXQbAvVn1VXO9HhrroEC33g0l-eyyD2Lhmhb9ng_japY1ZOVeywXm7n59oiYJampQvnWWw3FO0IoikM6GSKqeju827EV9ixFJtGFh458UHIEXbVopZFRx3UVg/s1600-h/P7100072.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtOwIjYUssluAwYXQbAvVn1VXO9HhrroEC33g0l-eyyD2Lhmhb9ng_japY1ZOVeywXm7n59oiYJampQvnWWw3FO0IoikM6GSKqeju827EV9ixFJtGFh458UHIEXbVopZFRx3UVg/s200/P7100072.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096822848264019858" border="0" /></a><br />It's been such a busy summer, and soon we'll be gone to Minnesota for a family wedding and some reunion time. (My brother sent photos of the collapsed bridge, from the top of a 23 story building he manages right next to the bridge, wow, so horrific. No one we know was on it, PTL!) Then some vacation, looking forward to the traveling. <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">WHILE SANDY'S GONE HOURS WILL BE 11 - 3</span> Tues. through Sat.<br /><br />So, from Aug. 17 until Sept. 18, minus a couple of days, Sandy will be gone, but DO COME SHOP! <span style="font-weight: bold;">Pam, Linda H., Ty, Sue, Linda S. and Julie</span> will be here, eager to help you! Please, help them "earn their keep" and keep Sandy out of that <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">red ink</span> hole! :-) There will actually be new things arriving, and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Becky</span> will be checking it in, calling you about your special orders, and putting out the new merchandise.<br /><br />The photo above shows Jamie Beam's (<span style="font-weight: bold;">The Knotted Tree</span>) <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 255, 255);">Spring</span>, <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Summer</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 0);">Fall</span> Floral Samplers</span> - each uses different fun fibers and linen (or your own fabric choice - Linda H. hand dyed her own Aida! - she'll be here on Aug. 21, 24, 30, and Sept. 14 if you'd like to ask her how she did it). Jamie's working on <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Winter</span> - poinsettias and holly and a red cardinal - we know we'll love it just as much as the other seasons.<br /><br />So, what else is new? All the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mill Hill</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">beaded pins and ornament kits</span> are here, as well as the fall and Christmas <span style="font-style: italic;">beaded and buttoned kits</span> (six more village buildings!). There are new <span style="font-weight: bold;">Prairie Schoolers</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heart in Hand</span> designs, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lizzie Kate</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bent Creek </span>(the <span style="font-style: italic;">Red Thread Snapper series</span> continues, just a delight); new designers (at least to us) <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Primitive Needle</span> (<span style="font-style: italic;">Kindred Spirits</span>), <span style="font-weight: bold;">A. Fox Original</span> (<span style="font-style: italic;">Let it Snow</span> - sounds good right now!), <span style="font-weight: bold;">Midsummer Night Designs</span> (<span style="font-style: italic;">Forget Me Not</span>); and oldies <span style="font-weight: bold;">Donna Kooler</span> (<span style="font-style: italic;">Great Cross Stitch Gifts</span>), <span style="font-weight: bold;">Passione Ricamo</span> (<span style="font-style: italic;">The Queen of the Fairies</span>!, gorgeous!) <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mirabilia</span> (<span style="font-style: italic;">Crystal Symphony</span> is her latest) <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nora Corbett</span> (her new <span style="font-style: italic;">Pixie Couture Collection</span> is just darling), just to name a few. Sandy continues to stitch the months of <span style="font-style: italic;">Crabby All Yea</span>r by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Raise the Roof Designs</span> - it's hilarious, and has been so much fun to stitch! It uses lots of buttons from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Just Another Button Co.</span>, too, such a great touch; the fried eggs are truly clever.<br /><br />Another local designer is back in business, hurrah! Maureen (Doherty) Jaimes, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Doherty Designs</span>, has re-released her local patterns, including <span style="font-style: italic;">Mt. Hood and Lost Lake</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Multnomah Falls</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Timberline Lodge</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Mt. Bachelo</span>r, <span style="font-style: italic;">Haystack Rock</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Crater Lake</span>, lucky us!! Sandy saved her stitched <span style="font-style: italic;">Timberline Lodge</span>, so you can see that one "live", but long ago donated <span style="font-style: italic;">Multnomah Falls</span> to a local charity auction, and <span style="font-style: italic;">Lost Lake</span> left with the framer. They are all fun and easy to stitch, however, and the finished pieces are terrific.<br /><br />Maureen also has a design of the <span style="font-style: italic;">Sydney Opera House</span> and bridge, which Sandy has her eye on since she'll be visiting there in September!; she enjoys stitching her own souvenirs - don't you? :-)<br /><br />Watch for our new website in the fall, <a href="http://sandysstitchniche.com/">http://sandysstitchniche.com</a>! We don't know what will appear yet (what would YOU like?), but it will be good learning experience. :-)<br /><br />Until later...we're off to the wilds of Minnesota.Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-3594295393951225552007-05-10T14:19:00.000-07:002007-05-12T13:18:31.734-07:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHQj0R43K5Ll4e8Cy5I2AtypDuSapqINZo430JvJ113Lg-iyGwTMlj9LeEfWGk_4ojpi1rEay_HD1M96x5lj-COGlOdhKGRiChvVtDH6WFMIjHmLPbIJicdyeuTHvJYN27hplbMQ/s1600-h/Paige1stStitch.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHQj0R43K5Ll4e8Cy5I2AtypDuSapqINZo430JvJ113Lg-iyGwTMlj9LeEfWGk_4ojpi1rEay_HD1M96x5lj-COGlOdhKGRiChvVtDH6WFMIjHmLPbIJicdyeuTHvJYN27hplbMQ/s200/Paige1stStitch.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5063050101782488002" border="0" /></a><br />It's been too long - Sandy's been stitching too much! You all know what it's like - there's never enough time to stitch, so less "important" things are set aside, including updating the blog. :-)<br /><br />Meanwhile it seems that summer has hit, the garden is overflowing, the grandkids are having birthdays - and the older two have asked to learn how to stitch!, so this grandma's had a ball teaching them. Their enthusiasm is so exciting! Paige (pictured here with red 6 count Herta), just turned four, told her mom, "I'm going to stitch just like Grandma when I grow up, all the time and everywhere." Love it! :-)<br /><br />There are so many <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">new things</span> in the shop, beginning with <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mill Hill</span> kits; the spring set can be described as "Your Favorite Vacation" - <span style="font-style: italic;">Lakeside Retreat</span>, wine tasting (red or white?) <span style="font-style: italic;">Tropical Hideaway</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Seaside Sampler</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">On the Range</span>...fall's set has a <span style="font-style: italic;">Midnight Farm</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Autumn Wreath</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Apple Adventure</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Be Thankful</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Lavender Fields</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Country Welcome</span> - really love them all, and they've chosen designs that work so well for our area! The pins are great, too!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Daylight</span> has a new battery-operated (or plug-in) <span style="font-style: italic;">clip on light</span> that might prove as good as or better than our <span style="font-style: italic;">Flex Lights</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mighty Brite</span>, plus it has an optional magnifier and a shade which hides the light from the driver (you DO stitch in the car, don't you?!) or prevents glare on the TV, and has the <span style="font-style: italic;">natural daylight spectrum</span> which is so much easier on the eye. Darn, there's always something new, isn't there??<br /><br />From <span style="font-weight: bold;">Vintage Bliss</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">apple and pear stand ups</span>; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Brooke's Books</span>' <span style="font-style: italic;">Spirit of Quilting, Cross Stitch </span>and <span style="font-style: italic;">Knitting angels</span>; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kit & Bixby's</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Glimpse of Heaven</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Haunted Wool</span>; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lisa Cowell's</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">"My Grandma's Attic" </span>series; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mirabilia's</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Lady of the Mist</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Mermaid of Atlantis</span>, and under her other name, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nora Corbett</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Ivy</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Fern</span>; new from England, <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Stitching Shed</span>, sweet-bright-and-easy <span style="font-style: italic;">baby samplers</span> - the style reminds us of <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Bold Sheep</span>; tons of new <span style="font-style: italic;">florals</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ellen Maurer-Stroh</span>; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bent Creek</span>'s <span style="font-style: italic;">Red Thread</span> series; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lizzie Kate</span>'s <span style="font-style: italic;">Summer Crazy</span> and new designs for <span style="font-style: italic;">weddings</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">babies</span>; <span style="font-style: italic;">Humble Home</span> from the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Workbasket</span>; and the ultimate, <span style="font-style: italic;">Inspiration</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rosewood Manor</span>. ALL of these Sandy would be thrilled to stitch - the challenge will be - how many can she stitch before the NEXT round of new things??<br /><br />A reminder to check <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hoffman</span>'s <span style="font-style: italic;">Friday update</span>, <span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">new books every week</span>! Just let us know what you'd like! (You can see the new patterns mentioned above there or at Norden Crafts or Wichelt.)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Leisure Arts</span> has a new online feature, their <span style="font-style: italic;">Library</span> - where you can purchase single out-of-print patterns, as well as some that were never previously released, such as some <span style="font-weight: bold;">Disney</span> designs (the license has expired, so no new books will be published at this time). Check it out!<br /><br />We have several boxes of <span style="font-weight: bold;">books</span> for <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">half price</span> - lots of treasure has been plucked from them, but there's plenty more - the racks were just too stuffed, so something's got to go! (Sandy bought them all thinking she'd of course stitch them if no one else did!:-) Please do come down and take advantage of her over-enthusiasm!<br /><br />We hope you'll take some time from the flurry of spring/summer activities to relax and stitch a bit - there are so many good reasons, graduations, holidays, and always babies and weddings. Come stitch with us Wednesday mornings and every second and fourth Tuesday evening.<br /><br /><pre><span></span><span><br /><br /></span></pre>Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-52307209862573146342007-02-22T08:37:00.000-08:002007-02-23T11:02:20.688-08:00Nashville News<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuTCjTS6Pz0KXrADpoRYCO7jEea2l7AASnZLnXDU5O4p86UbQiWKIv1K6KdN7FWXgSYv19mMhXWdQLmyN9w9LL2JE6YnWPW4AfyTsrNkMvzth2EN4fJg_3S2ntVcjh9t9nRxSW5g/s1600-h/DSCN2086.JPG"> </a><p class="MsoNormal"><st1:city><st1:place><span style="font-size:10;">Nashville</span></st1:place></st1:city><span style="font-size:10;"> was sooo much fun this year – so many great designers attended, we brought back way too much stuff!<span style=""> </span>Lots flew out the door last week, but we promise there’s plenty more, and we’re still ordering and receiving orders, too.<span style=""> </span>New patterns, gadgets, buttons, fabrics, threads – come see what’s new from The Workbasket, Val’s Stuff, Rainbow Gallery, Indigo Rose, Ladybug Lane, Bent Creek, Adam Originals, Crescent Colours, Kit & Bixby, Raise the Roof (remember Sweet Tooth? – would you believe Brace Face? :-)</span><span style="font-size:10;">,<span style=""> </span>Heinzeit, Angel Stitchin’, Hog River Frames, Stitchworks, Sue Hillis, Imaginating, Primitive Traditions, Britstitch, X’s & Oh’s, M Designs, Poppy Creations, SamSarah, Hands to Work, Stitching Pretty, Sunflower Seed, Bizzi Creations, Whimsy & Wit, Hob Nobb, Water’s Edge, Stitcher’s Hands, JAR Designs, Glendon Place, Monsterbubbles, Lizzie Kate, Sampler Threads, Carrie’s Creation (overdyed threads from the Tri-Cities!) – to name a FEW!!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10;">One of </span><st1:city><st1:place><span style="font-size:10;">Sandy</span></st1:place></st1:city><span style="font-size:10;">’s favorite new patterns is “Crabby All Year” from Raise the Roof – the first three months are in the current leaflet, with three more leaflets to follow.<span style=""> </span>The photo shows how much they’ve designed so far – LOVE the fried eggs on the sidewalk!, could be seen here any August day!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10;">We had time to have a little fun in Nashville for a change as we went a day early – toured the landmark Ryman Auditorium (of Grand Ol’ Opry fame) and visited the famous Bluebird Café to hear some wonderful singer songwriters (one from Spokane!) – where many have been "discovered" and the walls are covered with photos of famous musicians who've performed there.<span style=""> </span>Food was good, too. </span>:-)<span style="font-size:10;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10;">Mostly, though, trade shows are a lot of work, albeit fun and exciting work – just tiring.<span style=""> </span>We’re still sorting through the paperwork but finally have everything unpacked and sorted out, ready to show off, hurray!<span style=""> </span></span><st1:city><st1:place><span style="font-size:10;">Sandy</span></st1:place></st1:city><span style="font-size:10;"> has her next few (?!) projects planned, but first MUST finish Princess Belle for her granddaughter’s birthday, a really sweet piece.<span style=""> </span>(If YOUR daughter or granddaughter is a princess, too, we have one princess pillow kit left!) There are only a couple of Disney Princess books in stock - Leisure Arts' license has expired, so when these books are gone you'll probably have to go to Disney theme parks (or possibly stores) to find (expensive) kits only.<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">SPECIAL BONUS</span> for those who've read this far - it's been quite awhile since we've offered Anchor at 3 for $1 - so until March 17, just mention the blog when you come in, stock up!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Enjoy</span> the spring weather, but remember to pick up your stitching to relax those sore mucles after gardening! :-)<br /></p><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuTCjTS6Pz0KXrADpoRYCO7jEea2l7AASnZLnXDU5O4p86UbQiWKIv1K6KdN7FWXgSYv19mMhXWdQLmyN9w9LL2JE6YnWPW4AfyTsrNkMvzth2EN4fJg_3S2ntVcjh9t9nRxSW5g/s1600-h/DSCN2086.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuTCjTS6Pz0KXrADpoRYCO7jEea2l7AASnZLnXDU5O4p86UbQiWKIv1K6KdN7FWXgSYv19mMhXWdQLmyN9w9LL2JE6YnWPW4AfyTsrNkMvzth2EN4fJg_3S2ntVcjh9t9nRxSW5g/s200/DSCN2086.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5034400966087565090" border="0" /></a></p>Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-71984589804129920692006-12-20T16:20:00.000-08:002006-12-23T16:20:39.428-08:00Merry Christmas! Happy New Year!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFj746gDrvg_Dm5CZE68sqbujjb6GrC6e7900wN5x49Da50HzyFJf9NZw-mZCQzfrBQuliYp0EQYA1QB17dFD3Ea-VzwwnguNNd9BN4XAt3r2rJJSyusNOw4sQmTsistl7sdG2Fw/s1600-h/DSCN1844.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFj746gDrvg_Dm5CZE68sqbujjb6GrC6e7900wN5x49Da50HzyFJf9NZw-mZCQzfrBQuliYp0EQYA1QB17dFD3Ea-VzwwnguNNd9BN4XAt3r2rJJSyusNOw4sQmTsistl7sdG2Fw/s200/DSCN1844.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5010769939932003122" border="0" /></a>Here's this year's tree: <span style="font-weight: bold;">first place</span> in the ornament contest went to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gayle Jacobson</span>'s beautiful church (a Dimensions Gold kit); <span style="font-weight: bold;">second place</span> to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mary Crichton</span>'s adorable Santa Kitty; <span style="font-weight: bold;">third place</span> to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Marie Huntington</span>'s intricate (one over one) Joy (Just Nan); <span style="font-weight: bold;">People's Choice </span><span>went to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gayle Jacobson</span> also</span>. Thanks so much to all our entrants - they make our tree so beautiful, and give us all new ideas for future Christmases.<br /><br />Sandy's off to Minnesota for a big family Christmas and her parent's 60th anniversary. (Flying through Denver!, say a prayer and wish them luck!) The shop will be OPEN Dec. 26, 27 and 28 from 11 AM to 3 PM, but then closed until Jan. 2 (landlord's decision). On those three days, take advantage of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">post Christmas sale</span> - 40% off all Christmas items and 25% off EVERYTHING (except of course pre-orders) ELSE ! Keep the shop "elves" busy, please! :-)<br /><br />Even this late in the year there are <span style="font-weight: bold;">new arrivals</span> - wonderful fabric kits from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mill Hill</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">"Words for Life"</span> using floss and beads and fitting a standard 5x7 frame; a new series of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dolly Mamas</span>, knitters, crafters, quilters and more; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lizzie Kate</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Flip It Bits</span> for 2007, darling monthly designs; <span style="font-style: italic;">Bitty Buttons</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Victoria Sampler</span>, such as a <span style="font-style: italic;">Sheep</span> and a <span style="font-style: italic;">Fawn</span>; and a fun series of <span style="font-style: italic;">"Snowballz"</span> from a new Minnesota designer, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Carolyn Manning</span>, just to name a FEW. Do come in and check them out while taking advantage of great SALE PRICES!Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-1163726220023740932006-11-16T16:48:00.000-08:002006-11-21T14:35:17.856-08:00Ornament Time!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1461/1295/1600/DSCN1535.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1461/1295/200/DSCN1535.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>There's only one week left to bring in your Christmas ornaments for this year's contest - don't let us down! :-) Remember, every entry receives a gift. Saturday after Thanksgiving is the deadline; Reta will be here until 3 PM that day (while Sandy is off playing with her grandkids).<br /><br />Pictured are some of the QUICK ornaments Sandy stitched for the Women in Business tree for the Festival of Trees (December 1 & 2) - she used her flower photos mounted on perforated paper and stitched simple words - "Joy", "Peace", "Noel", "Love", "Hope" and "Faith" - in two simple cross stitch alphabets. Backed with Christmas wrap and a gold hanging cord, finished in no time! (Seriously, a couple of hours, start to finish.)<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Christmas is coming! </span> Think about what you might like to add to your stash - send in the family to shop! We also have gift certificates, but it's fun to have givers choose something for you to make for them. There are many new designs and designers - such as <span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Kit & Bixby</span>, wonderful sheep and samplers. Make a wish list! When January comes you'll be prepared to snuggle by the fire and stitch something new.<br /><br />We also have new <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">free patterns</span>, and for those of you ambitious enough to get this far, Anchor will be 3 for $1 until Christmas (Dec. 23 actually) and remnants half off! We'll also give you a free book for each two you purchase at full price (excluding special orders)!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">THIRD FRIDAY</span> happens each month downtown - come check it out - "Downtown The Dalles Delivers Delights"! We're here until 5:30 - then we all wander to our neighbors for tastes and treats and live music.<br /><br />And meanwhile, <span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 0);">Happy Thanksgiving!</span>Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-1159909725206374982006-10-03T14:01:00.000-07:002006-10-04T11:04:12.293-07:00Halloween!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1461/1295/1600/PA130010.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1461/1295/320/PA130010.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />We think it's a fun occasion, ushering in the cooler temps and showering us all with...chocolate! Here's DiAnne with one of our favorite designs, "Sweet Tooth" by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Raise the Roof Designs</span>.<br /><br />It's also time for the fall online trade show - you're our guests! Just "tune in" to <a href="http://theneedleworkshow.com">theneedleworkshow.com</a> late on October 11, through October 15, see what's new, and place an order with us! Be sure to register for door prizes each day: <a href="http://dinky-dyes.com">Dinky -Dyes</a> is again giving away an *entire line* of their fibers...either silk or cotton, your choice! Plus, there are many other doorprizes generously offered by the vendors. Sandy won several last spring, and has at nearly every show. You can win, too!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">WHAT'S NEW? <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">One of our favorites is a new set of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dolly Mamas</span> - <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Go Braless</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Burn the Candle</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sick Days</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bring Coffee</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rise & Whine</span></span> and <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Mr. Right</span>...irreverent, wildly dressed women - just like some of our friends and relatives. :-) Great for gifts, and there's plenty of time to get them done for this holiday season, as they're fairly quick and easy to stitch. The complete kits sell for only $9.99.<br /><br />One of our favorite artists, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Michael Powell</span>, has finally released some of his 8x8 designs as patterns only, saving us a bundle; his kits, from England, sell for $57; the patterns are $20. If they sell well, he'll probably release some of his larger designs as well. They're delightful, whimsical buildings that are FUN to stitch. Come see them in person! Brand new to his website, there's a free monthly pattern, too: right now you can get the <span style="font-style: italic;">Spanish Church Icon</span>, and try him out for FREE! <a href="www.michaelpowellart.co.uk/">http://www.michaelpowellart.co.uk/<br /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mill Hill</span>'s annual beaded and stitched pins, ornaments and 6x6 pictures are always fun - this year there's a whole village to stitch.<br /><br />And that brings to mind our annual <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">ORNAMENT CONTEST</span> - have your entry here by Nov. 25, the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Everyone wins!!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Nordic Needle</span>'s newsletter has been giving us weekly <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">stitching tips</span>, sent in by their stitchers around the world. There are lots of great ideas:</span></span><br /><a href="www.nordicneedle.com/tips/stitching_tips.shtml">http://www.nordicneedle.com/tips/stitching_tips.shtml</a><a href="www.nordicneedle.com/tips/stitching_tips.shtml"> </a><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);"><span style="font-weight: bold;">SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span> </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The month</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">of October, </span></span><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-weight: bold;">mention the Blog</span> and </span></span><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">help yourself to some treats! <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 0);">REMNANTS</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">1/2 off</span>! <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">MAGAZINE BACK ISSUES</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">1/2 off</span>!</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> ANCHOR FLOSS <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">3 FOR $1!! </span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Get stitching on those holiday projects!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">MORE TREATS - FREE PATTERNS<br /></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Birds and Butterflies:</span></span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><br /></span></span></span><a href="http://www.vsccs.com/charts/FreeCharts.html">http://www.vsccs.com/charts/FreeCharts.html</a> <span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 0);"></span></span></span><br /></span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"> </span>Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-1153603046521315312006-07-22T13:35:00.000-07:002006-10-03T14:26:19.956-07:00HOT ENOUGH FOR YOU?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1461/1295/1600/Hot%20Enough%20%282%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1461/1295/320/Hot%20Enough%20%282%29.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />OK, that's very cliched - but it IS really <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">hot</span> here just now! <span style="font-weight: bold;">Just Another Button Co.</span> even created this design for the day of commemoration, July 23 - it was fun to stitch, which Sandy did before it got hot! It's one of several FREE patterns she's done recently - check them out in our front window, and come get your copy. Next up is "Sneak Zucchini Night" - Aug. 8 - sneak your extras onto your neighbor's porch!<br /><br />Speaking of free patterns, there are several from a new design company in Kennewick WA, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ink</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Circles</span>:<a href="http://www.inkcircles.com/html/free_charts.html"> http://www.inkcircles.com/html/free_charts.html</a> . We have some of their designs, including a Norwegian Rosemaling (in cross stitch) pattern and a cute cowboy.<br /><br />Other new designs are some cute <span style="font-style: italic;">Christmas ornaments</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Leisure Arts</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mill Hil</span>l's <span style="font-style: italic;">Santa's Closet</span> ornaments with beads and treasures, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mirabilia</span>'s <span style="font-style: italic;">White Christmas...</span>feel cool yet? :-)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lizzie Kate</span> has many sweet new patterns, including <span style="font-style: italic;">A Brother</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Winter Wishes</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Just Be Claus</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Think Summer</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Autumn Things</span>. We have several of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Passione Ricamo</span>'s<span style="font-style: italic;"> fairies</span>; the newest <span style="font-style: italic;">Britty Kitties</span> is here, #V from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Brittercup Designs</span>; <span style="font-weight: bold;">Heart in Hand</span>'s latest, <span style="font-style: italic;">Birds of a Feather</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Gardening Medley</span>; and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stoney Creek</span>'s <span style="font-style: italic;">Happy Everything</span>, to name a few. You can always check for what's coming out at <a href="http://hoffmandis.com">http://hoffmandis.co</a><a href="hoffmandis.com">m</a>; they now post them every Friday! Please let us know what you'd like!<br /><br />If you missed the<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Zweigart</span> tree skirt sale - less than half price! - we have some extras - take advantage of this special offer. Even unstitched they will look terrific under anyone's tree this year.<br /><br />We found some wonderful stitching tips at this website - <a href="http://www.scarletquince.com/tips.php"><span style="color: rgb(128, 0, 128);font-size:85%;" >http://www.scarletquince.com/tips.php</span></a> - everything from stitching supplies to methods to cleaning...<br /><br />Stop in, get cool, find a new project, ask for your<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> 10% DISCOUNT FOR AUGUST</span>...And keep on stitching!Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-1148665795011957032006-05-26T10:18:00.000-07:002006-07-22T13:31:06.410-07:00It's Our 15th Anniversary!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1461/1295/1600/Sienna%27s%20Lipstick.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1461/1295/200/Sienna%27s%20Lipstick.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1461/1295/1600/P1010013%20%282%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1461/1295/320/P1010013%20%282%29.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"></span>The photo on the right is of one of our free patterns, from <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Monsterbubbles</span>, stitched by <span style="font-style: italic;">Pam Shelquist</span>, finished by <span style="font-style: italic;">Corliss Marsh</span> - on <span style="font-style: italic;">Baroque</span> hand dyed fabric from <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Picture This Plus</span>. The other photo is Sandy's niece, who took the advice to heart! :-)<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mill Hill</span></span> is early this year - with their <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">fall kits</span> and now even their <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Christmas kits</span> are ready! The beaded and buttoned series is a village - there's a church, toy shop, train depot, tree farm, post office and Victorian house, just darling! And there's their usual cute Christmas pins - we love them all - teddy, carolers, holly wreath, train, kitty and gingerbread boy. You can see them on <a href="http://www.wichelt.com">www.wichelt.com</a> - and here in the shop, of course! Soon they'll have a new Santa ornament series ready, which have always been wonderful in the past.<br /><br />Many of our favorite designers have great new designs, too - we especially love the cute patterns from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Count Your Blessings</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Forever in My Heart</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Prairie Schooler</span> and the new <span style="font-weight: bold;">Daydreams</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dimensions</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Janlynn</span> has followed their <span style="font-style: italic;">Dolly Mamas</span> with <span style="font-style: italic;">Chicklets</span> - the daughters! - <span style="font-style: italic;">"Motor Mouth", "Miss Understood", "Miss Know-it-all", "Smarty Pants", "Princess Drama" and "Miss Behave"</span> - what a hoot! And <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hob Nobb</span>'s new buttons and patterns are terrific!, a wonderful <span style="font-style: italic;">baby sampler</span>, Limited Edition <span style="font-style: italic;">Spring</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Christmas</span>, new <span style="font-style: italic;">Doodles</span>, just so cute!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Please remember, you can always look up patterns for us to order for you, by subject, keyword or designer</span> at <a href="http://hoffmandis.com/">http://hoffmandis.com</a><br /><br />We also have <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Stitcher's Journals</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Yarn Tree</span>; each has graph paper as well as journal pages, so you can design and record your materials, thoughts and ideas, all in one beautiful book. They'd make a great gift for any stitcher.<br /><br /><a href="http://hoffmandis.com"></a><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Peter Rabbit</span> has made his appearance - in the baby sampler Sandy stitched for her newest grandson, Mitch. It's not framed yet, so no photo - but you can see it at the shop. Pretty darned sweet! <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Verdana;font-size:100%;" ><a name="All Purpose Recipe"><br /></a><a style="font-family: courier new;" name="All Purpose Recipe"><br />"All Purpose Recipe for Cleaning your Needlework</a></span><span style="color: rgb(128, 0, 128);font-size:85%;" ><p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;" >The Valentine museum has a wonderful needlework collection. This recipe comes from one of the curators at the Valentine, Grace Wells, via needlework teacher Marion Scoular. Mix 1 T Ivory Flakes (or grated bars Ivory soap) and 2 T Snowy Bleach. Dissolve this in 1 gallon of hot water and let it COOL TO ROOM TEMPERATURE. Put your needlework in this solution and soak until the stain is gone, up to three weeks. Rinse very well. The "up to 3 weeks" part of the directions implies that the solution is not changed, but I'd check water level for evaporation, as above. And when I add water, I'd give things a gentle swish."</span></p><p align="left">Find loads of free designs here:<br /></p><p align="left"><a href="http://www.cross-stitch-art.com/crossstitch2/Enewsarchive.htm">http://www.cross-stitch-art.com/crossstitch2/Enewsarchive.htm</a></p><p align="left">And some great ideas for gifts:<br /></p><p align="left"><a href="http://www.cross-stitch-art.com/crossstitch2/Thingstomake.htm">http://www.cross-stitch-art.com/crossstitch2/Thingstomake.htm</a></p><p align="left">And even animated instructions!</p><p align="left"><a href="http://www.cross-stitch-art.com/crossstitch2/AnimatedXS.htm">http://www.cross-stitch-art.com/crossstitch2/AnimatedXS.htm</a> </p><p align="left"><a href="http://www.cross-stitch-art.com/crossstitch2/AnimatedXS.htm"> </a></p></span><div>Addressing those pesky <span style="font-weight: bold;">fabric creases</span> again, this advice is from Marla Hunt in the Nordic Needle's newsletter: "take a mixture of white vinegar and water and dab it on the crease...then put a damp dishcloth on it and lightly steam it dry until it disappear(s). It work(s) beautifully." </div> <div> <p><br /></p></div><span style="color: rgb(128, 0, 128);font-size:85%;" ><p align="left"> </p></span>Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-1143919341239854872006-04-01T11:15:00.000-08:002006-04-05T15:12:59.650-07:00SPRING...IS SPRINGING!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1461/1295/1600/P1010021.1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1461/1295/320/P1010021.1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"> It's beautiful here</span>, sunny morning walks start out cool and end up WARM! It's hard to sit still and stitch, but since Sandy's held captive here at the shop, she does usually find some time...Hope you do, too!<br /><br />Here's a picture of Alice, who spends her lunch hours working on her Hardanger - she began this piece in 2004! Persistence - and a small investment of time each day - and we can all accomplish wonders. Consider joining us for our Wednesday morning stitch group, from 10 AM to noon - you CAN finish something! :-) (Hardanger, second and fourth Tuesdays, 7-9 PM, 10% discount on Hardanger purchases.)<br /><br />Consider the philosophy of "just one stitch is better than no stitch at all". If you sit down to stitch just one stitch you could easily look up 1/2 hour later, find that more than one stitch has been done and you're a little bit farther along on the project. It works!!<br /><br />Another great tip: When stitching a large area of one color, stitch only half stitches when you are able to use the chart and carefully count. Then when you want to stitch quickly or carry a project along to the doctor's office or kid's sports or play practice or music lesson, you will only need your fabric, needle and thread and you can cross those stitches without having to count or refer to a chart!<br /><br />We have lots of new projects in the shop, many of them quick and easy - honest! Come check out the fun! Becky completed a darling <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dimensions</span> straw bag - embellished with a needlepoint initial, though it could also be cross stitched; see it before she gives it to her daughter. Reta's completed fairies, the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Passione Ricamo</span> <span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 0);">Autumn Fairy</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mirabilia</span>'s <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Christmas Fairy</span>, are here for just a couple more weeks - just darling! They'll be off to the Hood River Blossom Festival at the Odell fairgrounds April 15, 16, Easter weekend. And one of our favorite new things - <span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">Chocolate</span> from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hob Nobb</span> - makes you hanker for a piece, and we have one for you! <span style="font-weight: bold;">Leisure Arts</span> has a series of cross stitch books combining simple stitching with stamping and water color painting - great for kids, too. We also have a few very cute <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dimensions</span> kits for Russian punch needle - now THAT's quick and easy!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">FRIENDSHIP TAPESTRY</span> - It's made its USA debut, at Nordic Needle in Fargo, ND - see their wonderful pictures on the website - and "Rags" is still adding pieces, so yours can still be included. <a href="http://www.internet.is/friendshiptapestry">www.internet.is/friendshiptapestry</a>.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">UNFINISHED PROJECTS</span> - If you have pieces that you just can't bear to look at any longer, consider donating them to Corliss's team's <span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Relay for Life</span> Unfinished Project Sale - which will also be a great place to shop when the time comes! We'll keep you posted! Meanwhile, start sorting. :-)<br /><br />CONVERSION CHARTS - Reta shared this fabulous website with us today; you can even find REAL thread numbers for kits in some cases! Just about every kind of conversion you can think of has a resource listed here: <a href="http://aion-needlecrafts.co.uk/info/conversions.htm">aion-needlecrafts.co.uk/info/conversions.htm</a> - do check it out!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">A REMINDER</span> - We are here because of <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">YOU</span>, and we thank you so much for these 15 years of your support. Please consider ordering your stitching pleasures from <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">US</span> rather than online or from a catalog. Instant gratification is more expensive - you pay that shipping - and in the end, if we can't provide it for you now, we can't be here in the long run for you, either. We really try hard to satisfy all your stitching needs. Please call, or email, before you indulge that whim. Each book you buy from <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">US</span> is marked on your book card; the thirteenth, up to a $10 value, is FREE!Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-1140217854549434342006-02-17T15:05:00.000-08:002006-02-17T15:15:45.370-08:00Here's A Useful Idea<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1461/1295/1600/Mitch%2011-19-05%20029.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1461/1295/320/Mitch%2011-19-05%20029.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Sandy forgot to include this yesterday; she read it in the Nordic Needle newsletter and has used it on the Peter Rabbit Sampler she's stitching for her newest grandson, Mitch. It has a single stitch border all the way around.<br /><br />When you have a distance like that to cover, or any distance of some length, rather than counting and re-counting, as you go across with the first half cross, simply cross every tenth stitch! She re-counted each group of ten, but then just carried on across the width of 224 stitches, no problem! What a concept!</div>Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14342907.post-1140128680828675542006-02-16T13:59:00.000-08:002006-02-16T14:26:13.996-08:00Back From Nashville!<span style="color: rgb(51, 153, 153);"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family:courier new;">Where to start?!</span></span><span style="font-family:courier new;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We saw so much, it's still almost a blur. Of course, the off and on snow kept up the blur, too - schools were closed! There was not much snow sticking, but we were told the hidden ice was the culprit - and the drivers don't slow down, so there are lots of accidents.<br /><br />We brought back new designs (and ordered more) from Hob Nobb (the <span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">CHOCOLATE</span> is Sandy's favorite), Landmark Designs (English), Lizzie Kate, Imaginating, My Mark, Blue Ribbon Designs, 4 My Boys, Janlynn (Chiklets!), Lilybet Designs, Kitty Kats Original, Sue Hillis Designs, Forever in My Heart (check out the Clipboards!, too cute), Water's Edge, Art-Stitch Designs, The Marking Samplar, Whimsey & Wit, Erica Michaels, X's & Oh's, Brittercup Designs, Sisters & Best Friends, La-D-Da, Ladybug Lane, Designs From Pamela, Elizabeth's Needlework Designs, Prairie Moon, The Stitchworks, Monsterbubbles, ewe & eye & friends, Twisted Threads, JBW Designs, Hands to Work, Val's Stuff, Bizzi Creations...and MORE.<br /><br />There are also new hand dyed fabrics (including Aida!) from Pictue This Plus - colorfast, too; new overdyed threads from both The Gentle Art (Sampler Threads) and Weeks Dye Works; lots of frames and Serendipity kits and patterns; buttons from Just Another Button Co.; there's lots more, plus tons of free patterns to share with all of you. Come check out the new stash!<br /><br />When you do, mention the Blog for a free gift from Nashville and a "coupon" specially tailored just for YOUR purchase!</span><br /></span></span>Sandy's Stitch Nichehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07756399600615257454noreply@blogger.com0