Stitchin' and Life in a Small Town

Last Stitchey Finish of 2011

2011-12-28T13:00:00.005-07:00

Here is my last finish for 2011, I hope to have more finishes in 2012 but you know how it goes when your a stitcher with all of our ebbs and flows.
I finished this earlier this month, but only got around to making and attaching the tassels today.

This is the front of the ornament, I saw this in someones photo files (sorry can't recall whom or where) and loved the outside edge design on her mini pillow but changed up the middle for a simpler stitch. It is stitched with woven bars with picots and doves eyes, algerian eyelets and then a satin stitched star center with satin hearts in Kreinik and Mill Hill beads in gold.

This is the back of the ornament.
The Ornament is stitched on 32ct. ivory linen using Caron Wildflowers in Black Watch
for the kloster blocks, the red is DMC Color Variations floss in 4210, DMC #8 Pearl Cotton in Ecru, Kreinik #4 braid in gold and Mill Hill beads in gold finish off the stitching.
I made the tassels with 4210 as well.
I made a pillow out of dark green satin for the inside.

I hope everyone had a wonderful and Blessed Christmas / Holiday Season.
Wishing you love, good health and lots of stitching in the New Year.

Take Care & Happy Stitching
Hugs, Sandy

The Finished Ornament

2011-11-21T14:10:00.005-07:00

I finally got around to taking pictures of the finished ornament.
The pictures, while not the best, should be click-able to blow em' up.
Hope ya'll like the way it turned out.

I'm using the Edelweiss as one side of the ornament and the
Triple Woven Spoke as the other side.

Thanks for stopping by and leaving your thoughts behind,
I appreciate each and every one of them.

Take Care & Happy Stitchin'
Hugs, Sandy

Edelweiss & Triple Woven Spokes

2011-11-14T12:38:00.005-07:00

Well, with the wonderful help of a few talented stitcher's finding clear understandable directions, I was able to complete the Edelweiss Flower filling stitch on my Hardanger Christmas ornament.
Not really sure I like the way it turned out using the #12 pearl cotton, but it was much easier than I thought it would be. Most directions said to use #8 but I already had the center web stitched and didn't want to pull it all out.

"Edelweiss Flower"
Stitched on 28ct. white Monaco using DMC threads.

The other half is the Woven Triple Spoke.

"Woven Triple Spoke"
Stitched on 28ct. white Monaco using DMC threads.

I'll have a picture of the finished ornament sometime this week when I'm done with it.

Thank you all for stopping by and for any comments you might leave behind I really do appreciate each and every one.

Take Care & Happy Stitchin'
Hugs, Sandy

Finally a Stitchy Update

2011-11-03T09:01:00.008-06:00

WoooHooo!! I'm finally able to update my blog, and I have lot's of stitchy finishes to share with all of you. Blogger would keep timing out every time I tried.

All of the pictures should be click-able to enlarge them.

I have wanted to stitch this piece for a couple of years now, but never had the right fabric to stitch it on. It's from the September 2008 issue of Cross-Stitch & Needlework.

"Autumn Mosaic Pillow"
Stitched on 28ct. Tea colored even-weave using DMC Color Variations #5 Pearl Cotton and floss.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I decided that I wanted to expand my Hardanger stitch knowledge, so I designed this piece using in my Jill Carter book.

"Hardanger Stitch Sampler"
Stitched on 28ct even-weave hand-dyed by me with DMC #8 & #12 Pearl Cotton and Mill Hill beads.
Designer: Sandra Longan-Miller

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Next I got into a scissor fob/ornament mood and designed & stitched up these two.

Scissor Fob/Ornament #1
Stitched on 22ct Hardanger Fabric with Caron Wildflowers & Watercolours in Violet.
Designer: Sandra Longan-Miller

Hardanger Scissor Fob/Ornament
Stitched on 28ct Blue Spruce linen using DMC #8 & #12 Pearl Cotton in white.
Designer: Sandra Longan-Miller

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Next up I designed & stitched up this Hardanger Cross.
I really love this piece.

"Hardanger Cross #1"
Stitched on 28ct linen using DMC #8 & #12 Pearl Cotton in white and Kreinik #4 braid in Pearl.
Designer: Sandra Longan-Miller

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And lastly, for now anyway, I wanted to learn how to make a Bouillon Knot Rose, so I took part of a pattern from another issue of Cross-Stitch & Needlework and stitched up this bit.

Bouillon Knot Rose with Satin stitches and Algerian Eyelet using DMC Color Variations.

Thank you so much for stopping by and leaving a piece of yourself behind. I appreciate each and every comment you leave.

Take Care & Happy Stitchin'
Hugs, Sandy

More Stitchy Finishes

2011-08-08T14:05:00.011-06:00

It's finally finished!!!

I stitched up the last part of "Tree Of Stitches" on Friday. The little critters are just too cute, Lester the owl perched high in the tree and Horace the rabbit who seems to be thinking of eating the flowers.

I just adored this SAL and can't thank Abi enough for designing it.

I changed it up a bit by adding three flowers and a leaf instead of two and I decided to put my initials and the year among the roots of the tree.

"Tree of Stitches"

Finished on 05 August 2011

I stitched up this little piece from The Drawn Thread while I waited for the final piece for the Tree of Stitches, it is full of specialty stitches and is pretty quick to stitch.

"All You Need Is Love"
A freebie from The Drawn Thread

Stitched on 32ct. cream linen using Kreinik silk mori threads.

Finished on 04 August 2011

Not sure how I will finish these two, but it should be fun trying to figure that part out, of course, not as much fun as stitching them was.

Thank you all for all of the wonderful comments you left behind after my last post, I love each and every one of them.

Take Care & Happy Stitchin'

Hugs, Sandy

Tree Of Stitches Part 14

2011-08-02T12:15:00.007-06:00

Well, I finished off part 14 of the "Tree of Stitches" SAL last Wednesday {27 July 2011} after we got back from our camping trip to the Big Horn Mountains in Wyoming.
I added a few more leaves than Abi called for on the chart, a few small leaves among the larger ones and a few half leaves around the roots of the tree.
Just one more part left to stitch and it will be finished.

"Tree Of Stitches"
Designed by: Abi Gurden

I stitched this little piece on the 12th, it's a free chart I found at
http://home.comcast.net/~bethkatz/stitch/roots.html

"Roots"
Designed by: Beth Katz
Stitched on 28ct. blue linen using Wildflowers threads by Caron.
Finished: 12 July 2011

Thank you all for stopping by and leaving a part of yourselves behind with your comments, I appreciate each and every one of them.

Take Care & Happy Stitchin' Everyone
Hugs, Sandy

Tree Of Stitches - Part 13

2011-07-09T08:18:00.005-06:00

I finished part 13 of the "Tree Of Stitches" around noon yesterday.
Part 13 is the "Windmill" stitch and stitches up quickly.

"Tree Of Stitches" designed by Abi Gurden
Finished on 08 July 2011

I was going thru my WIP/UFO bin and with great horror realized I had FIVE (and I counted them twice, because I couldn't believe it) projects on scroll rods.
I think someone around here needs to stop startin' new pieces and get off her butt and finish a few of the ones she already has goin'.
Yea, like that's ever goin' to happen ; )

Take Care Everyone & Happy Stitchin'
Hugs, Sandy

Tree of Stitches & other Stitching

2011-07-02T09:31:00.003-06:00

I finished part 12 of the "Tree Of Stitches" last week.
Still lovin' this piece, just wish the parts came out sooner.

"Tree Of Stitches"
Part 12 finished 06-25-2011

I designed this little piece with all specialty stitches to play with.

I turned it into a mini needle roll/pin cushion.
I think it turned out kinda cute.

Mini Specialty Stitch Needle Roll
Finished on 06-29-2011
Stitched on 28 ct. linen using Wildflowers "Blue Spruce".

Just a short update today, nothing exciting ever happens in this little town.
Thanks for stoppin' by and leaving your thoughts behind, I really do appreciate each and every one.

Take Care & Happy Stitchin' Everyone
Hugs, Sandy

Tree Of Stitches - Part 11

2011-06-18T07:51:00.003-06:00

Hello my Stitching Friends:
I've finished up part 11 of the "Tree Of Stitches" SAL, this is such a beautiful design and I just adore it.
As a lot of you know this design is made up of bunches of specialty stitches, some of which I'm familiar with and some that are totally new to me. Just need to start thinking how I'm going to finish this wonderful piece when all of the stitching is done.

"Tree Of Stitches"
Designed by: Abi Gurden - The Stitch Specialist yahoo group.

Thank you all for stopping by and leaving your thoughts behind, I love each and every one.

Take Care & Happy Stitching Everyone
Hugs, Sandy

Little Lace Hardanger & Tree Of Stitches

2011-05-27T15:37:00.006-06:00

I want to thank everyone for the wonderful comments you left after my last post and for all the great advice on ways to deal with it. I did do a copious amount of rinsing on the piece, but when I posted about it, I had already removed all of the beading and cut my signature out of the piece, before sending it on it's way to "stitch disaster Heaven" aka; the trash.

Little Lace Hardanger

I finished the second version of "Little Lace" by Abi Gurden of The Stitch Specialists
yahoo group. It turned out much better after washing than the first one, just not as colorful.

"Little Lace" by Abi Gurden
Stitched on 22ct. white Hardanger using DMC #5 & #8 in 931
and Mill Hill beads in "Gun Metal"
Finished: 25 May 2011

And here is the finished Needle Roll.

Finished: 26 May 2011
I did a pulled thread area for the ribbon to be woven into, and finished the ends with a pin stitched hem. It finished out at 10 inches so it's fairly big for a needle roll, but I just love it.

Tree Of Stitches

I finished part 10 today and am still loving this piece.

"Tree Of Stitches" by Abi Gurden
Being stitched on 28ct. evenweave in a marbled light blue.
I'm using threads that I have hand-dyed myself.
"Walnut" for the trunk is a medium dark chocolate brown,
"Burnished Leaves" for parts of the foliage is an olive green with hints of golden orange,
"Winter Sage" for parts of the foliage is a gray green &
"Sunshine" is an orange.
I'm using Delica beads in "Bronze Luster" & Bronze Gold Luster" so far unless I change my mind like I did today.

Take Care & Happy Stitching
Hugs, Sandy

Hardanger Heartbreak

2011-05-20T12:48:00.003-06:00

I finished my "Little Lace" Hardanger piece on 11 May 2011 then let it sit around for a bit while I contemplated a way to finish it. I finally decided that I would make a larger needle roll out of it to go into a basket.

Stitched on 22ct. Hardanger fabric using Caron Wildflowers and Watercolours in "Ruby".
This a beautiful design by Abi Gurden of "The Stitch Specialists"
This is how it looked before I washed it.

And then the heartbreak began.

The second I dipped it in the cool water with Orvus in it, all hell broke out and the water turned purple. I have never had a problem with any of the Caron threads in all my years of using them, but Ruby just had to be the exception.
I started rinsing the piece in cold water in an effort to save it , which worked, until I rolled it in the towel and it bled all over the towel. Just a disaster.

I have since clipped off all of the beads and removed my name from the piece and sent it on the way to stitched disaster Heaven.
I do plan on stitching this piece again, but if I use a hand-dyed thread I'll be sure to test it before I do the entire piece.

Thanks for stopping by and if your in one of my Yahoo groups I will get back to answering all of your wonderful comments, but I have been sidelined with a really nasty sore throat and now the allergies have set in, gotta love spring.

Take Care & Happy Stitchin'
Hugs, Sandy

"Tree Of Stitches" Part 9

2011-05-06T17:10:00.007-06:00

I finished part 9 of the "Tree Of Stitches" SAL on "The Stitch Specialists" yahoo group. I still adore this piece and have learned a few stitches I didn't know about.
If your interested in joining this amazing group of stitcher's, just click on the link above and make sure you fill out the questionnaire that the Mod's send your way so they can approve your membership.

This last section could be stitched in either the Norwich Stitch or the Woven Stitch. Well, I couldn't decide which stitch I liked best; so I stitched the left half using the Norwich Stitch and "Burnished Leaves" and the right half using the Woven Stitch and "Winter Sage". I have to say that after doing both stitches, that the Norwich Stitch is far easier as you don't have to weave the thread over and under as with the Woven Stitch, but I loved the learning experience.

"Tree Of Stitches" by Abi Gurden
Finished 06 May 2011

I had someone ask what type of threads I'm using?
They are threads that I have hand-dyed myself.

Thank you everyone for stopping by and taking the time to leave your thoughts behind, I appreciate each and every one.

Take Care & Happy Stitchin'
Hugs, Sandy

Part 8 of "Tree Of Stitches" is Done.

2011-05-01T09:12:00.004-06:00

"Tree of Stitches" Part 8
I finally chose to do this part in "Sunshine" as it is the base color for "Burnished Leaves" so I thought it would be a good fit.
This was, of course, my fourth attempt at getting the color I liked. I tried out the green first and pulled it all out, then I went on to "Old Lace" an antiqued white, ivory, beige mix for a Dogwood/Magnolia feel and added cream beads. I stared at it off and on for a couple of days before pulling the beads and trying the Gold Luster beads, still didn't like it, so I pulled everything and started over with "Sunshine" then added the Gold Luster beads. It's been finished since April 28th and I still like the look; so it's a keeper.

"Tree of Stitches"
Designed by: Abi Gurden

I've also started working on the "Little Lace Hardanger" SAL in the same group, but no picture yet.

I want to thank everyone for all of the wonderful thoughts you leave behind after your visits, I know I don't say it nearly enough, so Thank You all from the bottom of my heart.

To answer a couple of questions I've had lately.
Yes, I will be selling my hand-dyed threads as soon as mother nature and my photography abilities are on the same page.
Yes, my designs are for sale, I have to work out what would be a reasonable price for a printed chart, haven't figured out yet how to send a PDF chart in an email. I also want to put some of the larger charts on Cross Stitch Addicts, of course, after I work out the whole PDF issue.

Well until next time dear stitchers.
Take Care & Happy Stitchin'
Hugs, Sandy

Cross Stitchin' Update

2011-04-11T17:46:00.004-06:00

Here is my first finish of 2011.

Blackbird Sampler
by Sandy (little ol' me)
Stitched on 16ct. Aida hand-dyed by me using my own hand-dyed threads.
I think I stitched it in February.

This is a new piece I started at the end of March.
It's a SAL with The Stitch Specialists yahoo group.
There are 16 parts to this SAL, parts 1-7 are shown in this picture.
A new part is released every Friday by Abi.
I am loving this design, it uses bunches of different specialty stitches, so far there have been cross stitch, Smyrna cross, colonial knots, eyelets, rice stitch, padded stitch, & Jerusalem stitch with beads added to a few of the sections.

Design: Tree of Stitches
Designer: Abi
Stitched on 28ct. sponge-dyed evenweave in Light Blue using my own hand-dyed threads in Black Walnut, Burnished Leaves & Pryor Mountain Sage, so far.

I'm trying really hard to get the pictures of my threads to come out right, the colors always seem to be off. It's so annoying.

Thanks for stopping by I really do appreciate all of your visits & comments.

Take Care & Happy Stitchin'
Hugs, Sandy

I'm Still Here

2011-03-10T11:26:00.002-07:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I haven't fallen off the face of the earth.

We had a very unwanted "boot virus" on our main computer so DH had to cart it off to the puter ER for a while, luckily they were able to save everything on the hard drive. They had it for about two weeks.
We have a backup computer in my craft room, but when we fired it up, it refused to boot up and DH ended up wiping the hard drive clean and I lost all of the information I had on that one. Including all of the cross stitch charts I had designed in the past and all of my stash info I had in my "Organized Expressions" software.
Oh well, at least all of the designs I've done in the last two to three years was on the main computer. From now everything is getting backed up onto CD.

Right now I'm in the process of getting my hand-dyed threads in order with pictures and all, so I should be getting around to making a blog for selling those soon and maybe some of my charts after we get another printer. The one we have just needs ink, but getting my hubby to get the cartridges refilled when he has his sights set on a new printer, scanner, copier model is next to impossible.

I have a finish for this year, but won't have a pic until I wash and press it to see how a few more of my hand dyed threads fare. I want to make sure they are safe for your treasured needlework projects before I start to offer them up.

Take Care Everyone & Happy Stitching

Hugs, Sandy

A Forgotten Bit of 2010

2011-01-07T10:11:00.006-07:00

I forgot about my ORT gleanings from 2010 so I thought I'd post a pic.
Gotta love those old pale blue canning jars and zinc lids.

And here is my found stitchin' finish from 2010.
Found this one while I was reorganizing my craft table.
It will be turned into a plaque when I find the right piece of wood.

"Merry Christmas"
Designed by: Sandy in Montana

Thank you all for stopping by and leaving a bit of your thoughts behind.
I appreciate each and every one of your comments.

Take Care & Happy Stitchin' Everyone....
Hugs, Sandy

The Last Finishes Of 2010

2011-01-01T10:01:00.007-07:00

Happy New Year Everyone!!!
Wishing you all a very Blessed and Prosperous Year.

I did manage to get a couple of finishes before the clock struck midnight.

"Noel"
Finished as a pin pillow 12-31-2010.

I have been asked by a few stitcher's if my threads are colorfast.
After stitching this design with some of the darker colors I've dyed, I frogged some of the stitches the next day without any color transfer from the threads to the fabric. I then washed it using cool water and Orvus (I wash all of my needlework with it) then rinse, rinse, rinse and had no color bleeding onto the fabric. I did however have a little color transfer to the white towel I rolled the piece in from the cranberry thread, but it was very minimal.
So over all I'd say they are 95% to 98% colorfast, but as with any hand-dyed fiber there is always that chance that one may be a bit out of sorts depending on water conditions and the washing soap used.
But overall I am still happy with my test results and more testing will take place before I offer them for sale.
Better safe than sorry since I know all of the hard work that goes into any stitched piece.

"Needleworker"
by Sandy Longan Miller of
Log Cabin Needlework's

"Needleworker" was stitched as part of the ILCS

group's week long stitch-a-thon in honour of Rene, a beloved member of our group who is batteling the end stages of cancer. I also dyed some threads during this time and have named one "Rene's Purple" I'm still working to find the right mix for a "La Frog Green". I'll post picture's of the threads later on.

Take Care & Happy Stitching Everyone
Hugs, Sandy

Playin' With Threads

2010-12-23T13:53:00.006-07:00

Since yesterday brought some very sad news about a dear friend in my ILCS yahoo group, I thought I would try my hand at dyeing some threads as I couldn't concentrate on stitching.

My first try was tea-dyeing one skein of ecru and two of white.
I loved the aged effect that the tea had on the threads.
It's easier to see the shading in the first picture.

Next up I made up nine small batches of dye.
Country Blue, Tan, Scarlet, Navy Blue, Wine, Yellow, Denim & Black.
I was going to do a bit of color mixing, but ran out of white thread, oh well tomorrow is grocery shopping day and Michales is close by.

I really love how these turned out and it helped to lift my spirits for a bit.

I also made my first online order (not ebay) of hand-dyed threads on the 11th, they came in on the 18th, not bad for the holiday season.
I ordered from Nordic Needle since they were having $2.99 flat rate shipping and I received an on-line coupon for $5.00 off my order of $30.00 or more.
I picked out 22 different threads from The Gentle Art, 8 Simply Shaker Threads and 14 Sampler Threads.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas filled Family, Friends & Love.
I also want to send a very heart felt Thank You to all of you for your wonderful comments that you leave behind, I cherish each and every one, they help to keep me motivated.

Take Care Everyone & Happy Stitchin'
Hugs, Sandy

Bless Your Heart

2010-12-15T13:12:00.005-07:00

I have finally been stitching again and have a finish to show for it.
I have one more to finish, hopefully before Christmas.

"Bless Your Heart"
Designer: Sandy in Montana
Log Cabin Needlework's
Copyright 2010

Stitched on 32 count cream Linen using DMC threads.
Finished as a small pillow.

This will more than likely be sent to my dear mama for Christmas since she keeps saying she has no more wall space left to hang things.

Merry Christmas and Happy Stitching Everyone
Hugs' Sandy

Tis The Season

2010-12-10T09:52:00.014-07:00

Merry Christmas, Everyone !!!

I love this time of year with all of the decorations and such.
I have never been one to care if there were presents under the tree or not,
I have always loved seeing all of the lights, Nativities, and other
decorations so much more.
I feel the True meaning of Christmas is much more important.

But I do love to give to others, so here are a couple of quick to
stitch Christmas ornaments just for you.

I hope you have as much fun stitching them as I had designing them for you.
All threads are DMC but feel free to change the colors.
I would love to see what you stitch up,
so drop me a line if you finish one so I can have a peek.
My e-mail address is in my profile.

NOEL

Designed By: Sandra Longan Miller
Company: Log Cabin Needlework's
Copyright: Copyright 2010, Log Cabin Needlework's. All Rights Reserved.
Stitches: 47w X 33h
Size(s):
14/28 Count, - 3-1/4w X 2-1/4h in
16/32 Count, - 2-7/8w X 2h in
18/36 Count, - 2-1/2w X 1-3/4h in

Full Stitches:
DMC
500, Blue Green-VY DK - Leaves and stems
728, Topaz - L
780, Topaz-UL VY DK - N
782, Topaz-DK - O
783, Topaz-MD - E

815, Garnet-MD - Berries

Merry Christmas

Designed By: Sandra Longan Miller
Company: Log Cabin Needlework's
Copyright: Copyright 2010, Log Cabin Needlework's. All Rights Reserved.
Stitches: 54w X 54h
Size(s):
14/28 Count, - 3-3/4w X 3-3/4h in
16/32 Count, - 3-3/8w X 3-3/8h in
18/36 Count, - 3w X 3h in

Full Stitches:
DMC
319, Pistachio Green-VY DK - Leaves and stems
644, Beige Gray-MD - Border squares
783, Topaz-MD - Merry Christmas
815, Garnet-MD - Berries

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas
with all of Love and Joy that this Holiday Season brings.

Take Care & Happy Stitchin'
Hugs, Sandy

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone !!

2010-11-24T10:47:00.007-07:00

Wishing everyone a Blessed & Thankful

Happy Thanksgiving !!

I haven't posted or stitched for that matter for a bit too long, I've been quite busy trying to get some cross stitch designs all done up so I can have the required ten charts to post on Cross Stitch Addicts.
I never knew how time consuming designing could be when you have add all of the floss tables and needed items and instructions if needed, then turning them into PDF files. But, I'm hoping
(ie: saying lots of prayers) that I get it right and it will all be worth it in the end.

Anyway, we have been hit with lots of winter weather this week.
Can you believe that it was 60+ degrees on Thursday, 18 Nov. then it started to snow just a bit that night and by Friday morning we had 3" of snow and it kept on a snowin' until Sunday. We ended up with somewhere around 6"-8" of the fluffy white stuff.

And with all this snow came below zero temps, so I just stayed in the house and working with my design program and keeping the wood stove going. Nothing like the wood stove to keep the house toasty warm.

Take Care Everyone & Happy Stitchin'
Hugs, Sandy

Fall Weather & Stitching

2010-10-25T12:05:00.005-06:00

Hello all of my stitching friends, fall weather has finally come to Montana.
We have been having unusually warm weather for October, which has been lovely, but the temps are starting to fall into the 40's and 50's for the highs and 30's for the lows, which means that snow is coming soon. And the winds have been howling for the past two days, which just means more lovely crunchy fall leaves on the ground.
I love walking in the crunchy fall leaves.

Now onto my stitching.
Here is my latest design and finish.

"Give Thanks" Biscornu
Designer: Sandy
Stitched on 32ct. cream linen using DMC threads.
Finished 10-19-2010
The saying around the back edge reads:
For All We Are Given, Give Thanks Unto GOD From Whom All Blessings Flow.
I'll probably change the buttons at some point if I find ones that I thank are perfect, for now it just has pearl look cream buttons.

I'm working on getting some of my designs ready to sell, I've gotten a PDF program that I'm learning to use and I'm learning more about my Pattern Maker program so I can design my own layouts for the charts and adding instructions for the things that need them.
I really do hope to be selling my designs soon, either on a sale's blog of my own or with Cross Stitch Addicts after I get more info from them, only time will tell. If your interested in my designs I hope you will be patient with me while I get things all sorted out.

Take Care Everyone & Happy Stitching....

Hugs, Sandy

Pumpkins In Hardanger

2010-10-05T13:40:00.004-06:00

I got the Hardanger bug the other day and designed this trio of pumpkins.

Design: Hardanger Pumpkin Trio
Designer: Sandy in Montana
Stitched on 28ct evenweave using DMC & DMC Color Variations

Thanks for stopping by and thank you so very much for all of the wonderful comments that you leave behind.

Take Care & Happy Stitching
Hugs, Sandy

More Autumn Finishes

2010-10-01T08:55:00.005-06:00

Happy October Everyone

I've finished up two more autumn pieces,
and what says autumn, well more pumpkins of course.

"ABC Pumpkin"
Designer: Sandy in MT
Stitched on 32ct hand-dyed linen using Caron Wildflowers in Marigold and Moss and DMC 310
I added a little bat to go along with the stitched spider.
Stitched: 09-26-2010 Finished: 09-27-2010
I finished this one into a little tin that I cannot open since I got in a hurry and put the lid on to soon after painting it black.
Oh well, we live and learn and I'll be more patient next time around.

Design: Harvest Blessings
Designer: Cecilia Turner of Heart In Hand
Stitched on 32ct hand-dyed linen using DMC Color Variations threads.
Stitched: 09-29-2010 Fimished: 09-30-2010
I changed this design by adding happy fall and a couple of buttons.
I omitted the original wording, border and star.
Finished it as a pin pillow.

Thank you all for stopping by and leaving you thoughts, I appreicate each and every one of them and they keep me designing and stitching.

Take Care & Happy Stitching Everyone

Hugs, Sandy

An Autumn Finish

2010-09-23T08:07:00.007-06:00

Autumn is here.
My favorite season of the year, so my stitching has changed with the season.
Designed for the Autumn season and a reminder to always be Thankful for what we have.

"Have An Ever Thankful Heart"
Designer: Sandy in MT
Stitched on 32ct. hand-dyed linen using DMC, Color Variations & Caron Wildflowers.
Finished as a smallish pillow.

Thank you for stopping by and for all the wonderful comments you leave behind, they all mean so much to me.
Take Care Everyone .... Hugs, Sandy

Happy Autumn Everyone
&
Happy Stitching

A Stitchy Gift For My Friends

2010-09-08T15:58:00.007-06:00

I thought I'd share a pattern with all of you today, just to say "Thank You" for all of the wonderful comments that you've left behind after your visits, I really do appreciate each and every one of them.

Design: "Needles & Scissors"
Designer: Sandy in MT
Log Cabin Needleworks
Copyright 2010

Threads: DMC
the heart symbol is 115 variegated red
the large dot is 310 black
words, initials and date 115
all other back stitching 310

Take Care & Happy Stitching Everyone
Hugs, Sandy

Needles & Scissors Box

2010-09-07T13:20:00.006-06:00

I finished stitching this piece a few weeks back and was just waiting for some inspiration to slap me upside the head so I could turn it into a finish.
It took a while, but finally on Thursday I got a round to the finishing.

The lining fabric matches the "Needles & Scissors" needle book I stitched and finished a few months back. It's a bit hard to see here, I didn't realize how closely the background fabric matched in the pics.

"Needles & Scissors" Stitching Box
Designer: Sandy in MT
Stitched on 32ct. linen using DMC threads and tea dyed after stitching.
Attached to a painted paper mache box lined with cotton fabric and has a magnet in the lid for holding needles, hand made cording from DMC pearl cotton threads surround the design.

I'd like to thank all of you who stop by to take a peek at my blog for leaving a piece of yourselves behind. I truly appreciate all of your comments, they warm my soul and keep me stitching and designing.

Take Care Everyone & Happy Stitching...
Sandy

A Bit More Stitching

2010-08-11T09:24:00.008-06:00

Hello Stitcher's :
I have a couple of finishes to share with you all today.

First up is my first attempt at Count Your Blessings, I stitched this a few months back and really didn't like the way it turned out and almost threw it in the trash, but I told myself that nothing is perfect and it's just more prim-country the way it is, so I tied it to a rustic basket.
You might have seen it in the pictures of my craft room.

"Count Your Blessings"
By: Lizzie Kate
Stitched on 32ct. cream linen using DMC threads.

I finished stitching this one last Friday it's a freebie from By The Bay Needleart.
You can find it here: http://bythebayneedleart.blogspot.com/

I finished it totally backwards the first time and had to tear it apart and start over.
I put the batting in the wrong place so when I went to turn it the batting was on the outside and not in the middle, and sometimes it seems that I can't sew a straight seam to save my life.
Oh well, I still love sewing and always will.

"Star For Summer"
From: By The Bay Needleart
Stitched on 28ct. Monaco from Charles Craft using DMC threads and tea dyed after stitching.
Finished as a (not-so-perfect) quilted wall hanging with antler buttons and jute.
I changed this pattern around just a bit to suit my own tastes.

Someone asked a while back where I get my hangers. I've gotten them from Ben Franklin Crafts before they went out of business up here and at thrift stores.

I want to thank you all for your wonderful comments, they really warm my soul and keep me stitching, sewing & crafting. Hugs to you all.

Take Care Everyone & Happy Stitching
Sandy

A Campin' We Did Go

2010-08-05T09:17:00.008-06:00

My DH decided that life was to short and we needed to start taking vacations this year, so he procured a new to us 1993 Colman Cedar Pop-Up Tent Trailer (PUP) with a two burner stove top and a galley sink (pump handle, you get water) no refer, no indoor potty. We had all the other trappings for outdoor living purchased several years ago along with an extra large tent we've never used.

(all pics are click able for a better view)

Our home away from home. Yes, that is an oven he bought to take on the trips.
(Pic from our 2nd trip)

This is how are first camping trip went.
We went camping at the beginning of July to the Pryor Mountains , but that was only an overnight trip and we had to move camp a few hours after setting up.
Can you say "BEAR"!!.
Yep that's right campers, our German Shepard Cody went on alert with pacing and growling and hackles raised and DH was hearing the huffing sounds they make when their walking around, so we got out the guns just in case and packed everything up in record time and left that spot to him/her.

The day ended with COLD temps, lots of wind and rain.

First trip, second spot.
Jack sitting, Cody patrolling.
Yes the brown enclosure is the outhouse and even though it is right outside the door of the PUP I was not allowed to go out after dark without DH supervision.

Our second trip was much less eventful. (No Bears)
My DH took a few day's off at the end of July and decided that we would go camping in the Big Horn Mountains. 9500 feet above sea level here we come.

Our dogs loved this trip, and we found out that Jack really likes the water since he went out to wade in the lake every day, chest deep.

Our destination, Shell Lake Reservoir .

The view from our campsite.
Shell Lake Reservoir, what a beautiful view and very relaxing, too bad we didn't get a fishing license as there were lots of fish jumping around feeding on flying bugs.

Nestled amongst the pines is our home away from home for the next 3 days all set up and ready for relaxation.

Our first camp fire and yes we did the required marshmallow and weenie roasts.

The end of our trip. It rained the last night and morning we were there, so packing up was a soggy affair and everything had to be unpacked and dried out when we got home several hours later.

All in all it was a nice trip with some short day hikes, a beautiful view and time with my DH Robert.

Thanks for stopping by and Take Care Everyone.

Hugs and Stitches ...... Sandy

My Craftin'-Sewin'-Stitchin' Room

2010-07-22T12:51:00.007-06:00

Here they are craft fans, pictures of the place I call my "sanctuary".
My very own room of sanity, my Craftin' Room.

(You can click the pics for a bigger view)

This is where I do all of my cuttin'. I have all of my fat quarters and 1/2 yard pieces rolled or folded and stowed on the top shelf.
My "tools" are on the pegboard and all of my stitchin' fabrics and stuffing are on the bottom shelf. I have my stitchin' fabrics sorted by type in the bins.
The white drawers hold all of my laces, ribbons, felt and small fabric scraps.
The wicker basket holds "need to be finished" projects
The dark file cabinet holds my craft patterns and a ton of genealogy notes.

Here's my sewing machine and all of my bit's and bob's for finishing different craft projects.
All of my Caron threads are in the mirrored cabinet, the white drawers hold other threads, button's, bead's and etc. Sewing machine essentials are in the wood cabinet. The room door is a dutch door so I can close the bottom half to keep dogs out when needed.

Here's where I keep all of my cross stitch magazines (center & left), pattern books (right), freebie patterns (gray binder) and my original designs (blue binder) plus anything else that needs a temparary home until I get it sorted.
The big blue container, you can only see half of, holds all of my 1 yard or more fabrics and yes it is FULL. Spoiles from working at a fabric store and a craft store in California.

Here's my computer that I hardly use, all of my extra DMC, Caron and Pearl Cotton threads. My DMC on bobbins and Mill Hill beads are in the gray tackle box.
And a BAP/UFO on the scroll frame.
Of course, the closet is full of craft stuff like pinecones, nuts and moss in containers that I collected for wreaths and baskets. I'd really like to clean that space up but my DH has stuff in there too and doesn't want me moving it.

And yes, that's a rifle case next to the floss, nothing stitchy in there, just my rifle.
A girl's gotta protect her stash ya know. LOL

Hope you enjoyed the tour, I didn't take a picture of Hamilton my cockatiel, but you can see a corner of his cage in the first picture.
I do want to thank you all so very much for the wonderful comments that you leave behind, I appreicate each and every one of them.

Take Care Everyone and Happy Stitchin' and Craftin'
Hugs & Stitches .... Sandy

A Couple Of Odd Finishes

2010-07-21T14:04:00.005-06:00

I was going through my "stitched" container and found two pieces to finish off.

I stitched this piece way back in the late 70's or early 80's and decided to finish it and let it see the light of day.
An odd thing I noticed about this early piece is that I used to cross my stitches to the right /, but somewhere along the years I changed and started crossing them to the left \. Strange how things can change overtime and you never notice.

Design: "A Taste of Southern Living"
Stitched on 14ct. Band-Aida using DMC threads.

I stitched this Hardanger Heart not long after I made the needle roll that matches it.
I intended to make a matching needle book with it but noticed that I stitched it on the wrong half of the fabric, so it sat for almost a year waiting for me to finish it.
Hardanger Heart designed by me.
Stitched on 32ct. Zweigart linen using DMC Color Variations.

Well, that's all for today stitcher's.
I am stitching, though not much, one BAP for my DH and a smaller freebie sampler. I think I have fallen in love with the alphabet samplers.
Been trying to get some stitching organizers and pincushions all stitched up, but it seems like I always need another fabric to finish a piece, oh well, I'll get there soon.

Take Care Everyone ...... Sandy

Stitchin', Sewin' and an Idea

2010-06-24T13:39:00.007-06:00

I finally managed to get in some stitchin' time this week along with some sewin' time.
I call that the best of both world's.

First up is a Lizzie Kate freebie "Liberty"
Stitched on 32ct. linen using DMC Color Variations.
Finished off as a pin pillow.

My second finish is another Lizzie Kate freebie
"Count Your Blessings"
Stitched on 32ct. linen using DMC threads and finished as a mini quilt wall hanging.

I've been making more of the strawberry, pumpkin and tomato pincushions as well as working on a couple of patterns for stitching and sewing organizers to sell.
What do you think? Good idea? Bad idea? Let me know your opinion.

Well that all for today stitcher's I truly do appreciate your stopping by and leaving a bit of yourselves behind.

Take Care & Happy Stitching...... Sandy

Finally, Some Finished Stitching

2010-06-18T08:42:00.010-06:00

Being in less of a stitching mood and more of a sewing mood does have it's advantages.
I managed to get three pieces finished.

" Alphabet Sampler Tree"
This was a free pattern you can find here:
http://amonamipierre.net
Stitched on 32ct linen using DMC variegated threads.
Finished as a quilted wall hanging.

"Scissors Heart"
Stitched on 32ct linen using DMC #115
Finished as a medium sized pin pillow.

"I Love A Country Collection"
Stitched on 14ct aida using DMC.

I finished this piece several years ago (2006) and planned on entering it in the local fair so I framed it in a hurry using duct tape.
NEVER DO THAT!!
I started getting some discoloration that was peeking beyond the frame, so I went ahead and cut it down this year and made a quilted wall hanging out of it. Much more country looking this way, I used cotton calico and denim from an old pant leg.
I never did enter it in the fair.

Thanks for stopping by and thank you for leaving a piece of your self behind in the wonderfully kind comments you post. I do appreciate each and every one of them.

Take Care & Happy Stitching .... Sandy

Antique Sewing Machines

2010-06-16T11:14:00.005-06:00

Since I've been in much more of a sewing mood I thought I would share pictures of my three very "Elegant Ladies".
Two are Singer's and both function but need some parts to make them sewing members of the family. The third is a Western Electric and will never be functional but is still very beautiful.

You can click the pictures to get a better view.

Elegant Lady #1
This is my Singer Treadle machine, I had wanted one forever and when we first moved to Montana it was a house warming gift from my DH. It just needs the long belt replaced and the base of the metal thread spool pin trimmed down so it can be used.

Elegant Lady #2
This is my Singer Electric machine, I have no idea what model this one is, it came in it's original cabinet, but with no paperwork. This one runs, but needs a lot of cleaning and some work to make it functional. The paint is really ruff on it, but I just love the look of the older Singer machines.

Elegant Lady #3

This is my Western Electric table top model, unfortunately she will never be a sewing member of the family. There are far too many parts needed, like the power cord and all the accessories, but she looks great in my sewing/craft room.

I would have loved to have any one of theses elegant ladies up and stitching this past weekend when my eight year old Brother XL-5340 decided it needed a vacation not once, not twice, but three times over the past four days. I got her fixed up and she's back in sewing order, but I think a servicing/cleaning trip may be in order soon.

Have A Great Day Everyone
Hugs and Stitches ..... Sandy

My Sewing Machine Is Getting A Workout

2010-06-10T13:30:00.006-06:00

I've been using my sewing machine a lot lately, and this is the latest fruit of my labor.
You can find the tutorial for this project here:
http://www.sewmamasew.com/store/media/blog/SMSPincushionOrganizer.pdf

It's a sewing organizer with a removable scrap bag, pocket panel and pincushion.
The pincushion is 9" long and has a weighted bag in the bottom to keep it on the table or on the arm of your sofa or chair.

You can make this using two fat quarters of fabric and some flannel.
It called for wool felt for the center strip on the pincushion but I used flannel.
The weighted bag is filled with dry rice, but you could use sand or dried beans to weight it down. I even made a strawberry emery for my sewing snips out of a couple of leftover scraps.

Thank you all for stopping by my little corner of the world and leaving a piece of yourself behind, I always love reading your comments.

Take Care Everyone
Hugs and Stitches ...... Sandy

More Stitchin' & Pin Cushions Galore

2010-06-04T14:30:00.009-06:00

Well I've been busy stitchin' & sewin'.
I kind of got sidelined on a pin cushion sewing adventure for a while, but then got my stitchin' mojo back and made a Needle & Scissor Case with a matching Fob.
Now, if I can only find a pair if prim scissors in black the look would be complete.
You can click on the pictures for a better view.

Here is the front & the inside of my needle & scissor case along with it's matching fob. I designed everything but the big fancy scissors, I got them from a freebie pattern. It is stitched on 32ct. linen tea-dyed after stitching, using DMC thread in 310 & 115. I even tea-dyed the felt piece. I got the fabric from Hobby-Lobby and made the cording from the same DMC threads.

Here are the passel of pincushions I sewed up. There are two tomatoes with strawberry emery's, a strawberry with a strawberry emery, two strawberry emery's (hanging), two pumpkins and a little tomato. Aren't they just too cute.

I also fabric covered a couple of cardboard textile bobbins to wrap some of my flat trims on. I definitely need to make some more of these.
You can find the pattern here:
http://sarahdenormandie.over-blog.com/article-679373.html

Thanks for stopping by and leaving a piece of yourself behind, I really do appreciate all of your comments, they make me smile & keep me motivated.
I hope you all have a great weekend filled with sunny weather and lots of stitching fun.

Take Care & Happy Stitching
Sandy

Strawberry Pinkeep Tutorial

2010-05-28T08:38:00.024-06:00

Welcome to the show everyone.
Are you ready to try your hand at making a "Strawberry Pinkeep/Pincushion" ?
If you are, here is my oh so simple pattern for you to use.

First off you need to gather up your supplies.

9" x 9" piece of cross stitch fabric (any count or type)
1 skein of embroidery floss
3" x 14" piece or 1/8 yd. of cotton fabric or 1 piece of felt for the leaves
8" to 12" of cording, ribbon, yarn, etc. for hanger
9" x 9" piece of light weight fusible interfacing
18" of 24 gauge wire
9" diameter paper plate
strong sewing thread, pearl cotton or crochet cotton
Filling of your choice: Sand, Emery, crushed Walnut Shells or Fiberfill
scissors
pins
tacky glue
pencil & ruler
sewing machine

1. After you have finished your stitching iron the fusible interfacing to the back (wrong side) of the fabric. Using the ruler and pencil mark a line 1/2" away from your stitching on the diagonal edge. (aka: corner to corner) and draw a line. Cut along the line.

2. Fold or cut the paper plate in half and line up the cut edge of the plate with the cut edge of the fabric. Make sure that your stitching is centered and that the edges of the paper are no closer than 1/2" from your stitching all around. Using the pencil, trace the arc of the plate onto the fabric and cut out out along the line.

3. Match up the straight edge of your piece along the stitching, right sides together and pin in place. The stitching should abut/touch, but not overlap. Sew the long edge using a 1/2" seam allowance, make sure the stitching is lined up properly, then trim the seam allowance to 1/4". Turn right side out.

4. Using the strong thread and turning the edge under 1/4" as you go, sew a gathering/basting stitch by hand all the way around the top edge. Make sure you leave two thread tails around 3" long for pulling. Pull the tails of your thread to loosely gather the top of the strawberry. Fill with your filling material and top the filling with a circle of fabric to help hold the filler inside. Gather the top tightly and tie off the thread, making sure to leave a small opening for the hanger and leaves stem.

5. Make a template for a simple oval leaf. Trace ten (10) of the leaves on to the cotton fabric. Cut them out. Cut the 24 gauge wire into five (5) 3-1/2" pieces. Using the tacky glue, lay a thin line of glue around the edge of the leaf and down the center on the wrong side of the fabric. Set the wire in the center of the leaf approx. 1/4" from the top. Lay the second leaf half on top of the first leaf, wrong sides together, and press in place. Set aside to dry. Repeat with the remaining leaves. You should have five (5) leaves.

6. While you are waiting for the leaves to dry make your hanger. I've used twisted cording and jute that I braided, but you can use whatever catches your fancy. Make sure that your hanger is between 8" and 12" long. Fold your hanger in half and knot the ends together. This will be placed inside the top of your strawberry and stitched or glued in place at the back seam.

7. After the leaves are dry trim the edges to remove any stray threads and uneven sides. I used pinking shears for this. Gather up the leaves and twist the wire stems together tightly. Trim the stem to 1/4" to 1/2" long. Cover in glue and insert in the top center of your strawberry. (You can poke a small hole in the fabric for the stem to set in) Set it aside to dry. (You may want to pin it to hold it in place) After drying arrange the leaves how you want them and glue them around the top edge if necessary to help cover the gathers.

8. There you have it, you just finished your first Strawberry Pinkeep/Pincushion.
Congratulations!!!

NOTES:
I don't have paper plates at my house so I just found a lid in the right size and traced that onto paper for my template.
Remember that the count of your fabric will change the finished size of your Strawberry, so you may need to adjust the size of your template.
I found that crochet cotton is the best for the gathering stitches as the first knot will stay in place while you make the second one. Sewing thread and pearl cotton or floss can start to come loose.

Well, there you go folks.
I hope you have as much fun making yours as I did mine and if you have any questions my e-mail address is in my profile.
I'll try to answer them the best I can.

Take Care & Happy Stitching
Sandy

Acorn Tree Alphabet Sampler

2010-05-18T12:44:00.005-06:00

Another week, another finish.
This is my first ever quilted wall hanging. It's not perfect, but that only adds to it's rustic country charm, I think.
I changed 99% of the original chart to fit my tastes and only kept the tree trunk and branch shapes.
You can find the original chart for this one here:
Liberty Primitives & Needlework

She has many lovely freebies on her blog, stop by and have a peek.

"Acorn Tree Alphabet Sampler"
Stitched on 32ct. cream linen using DMC threads.

Thanks for taking the time to stop by and check out my latest finish, this leaves me with only four more to finish off, of course that's not counting the one I'm stitching on now or any others waiting in the wings.
I can honestly say, that I clearly see no end in sight to this stitching insanity.

Take Care Everyone & Happy Stitching
Sandy

Another Strawberry Pinkeep

2010-05-13T09:52:00.005-06:00

I designed, stitched and finished up this pinkeep in the last week and a half, I also took a few pictures of the process and am trying to work on a little how-to tutorial if I can just get the wording right.

Design: Simple Strawberry Pinkeep designed by me
Stitched on 32ct MCG Textiles using DMC Variegated #115.
I filled this one with crushed walnut shells.

Thanks again for stopping by ... Sandy

Be Ever Thankful

2010-05-13T09:32:00.004-06:00

I finished the stitchy part of this little pin pillow sometime in April, but just managed the finishing this week.
I picked this pattern up a few years back at a second hand store and it had another pattern, two pieces of linen and all of the threads with it for the fantastic price of just $1.00.

Design: Harvest Blessings by Heart In Hand Needleart
Stitched on 32ct. cream linen by Zweigart using WDW and GAST threads.

Than you all for stopping by and leaving a bit of yourselves behind. I really appreciate all of the wonderful comments that you leave behind.

Take Care & Happy Stitching Everyone,
Sandy

My First Strawberry Pinkeep

2010-04-30T21:23:00.004-06:00

I have wanted to make this little pinkeep for the longest time and I've finally gotten around to doing it.
I just love this one and it's Quaker theme. It was supposed to be filled with either sand or emery, but since I lacked either one I used fiber-fill.

Design: Strawberry Pinkeep by Blackbird Designs
From the 2006 Just Cross Stitch Special Christmas Issue
Stitched on 32ct. Lambswool linen using DMC Variegated thread #115

Thanks for stopping by and I always appreciate the lovely comments you all leave behind.

Take Care & Happy Stitching Everyone

More Pin Pillows & Hearts

2010-04-19T14:15:00.005-06:00

Pin Pillows & Hearts, Pin Pillows & Hearts.
I'm starting to notice a trend in my stitching and if I'm not careful I'll end up with so many smalls I'll have no place to put them.
Time to start scouting around for baskets and boxes to arrange them in so they don't get out of control.

Here are the latest finishes in my variegated thread, pin pillow & heart fetish.

Design: Bridegroom's Heart
This is a freebie from the Needleprint website.
Stitched on 28ct. white linen using DMC variegated thread #99.
I changed the initials to mine & hubby's.
Finished: 04-12-2010

Design: French Inspired Heart
A freebie from Cross Stitch Treasures.
You should be able to find it at one of these links:
http://wwwxstreasures.com or
http://www.xstreasures.com/downloads/GoS_hearts06.pdf
Stitched on 28ct. cream linen using DMC Color Variations #4130.
This one's not so small finishing out at about 12"
Finished: 04-14-2010

Thank you all for stopping by and having a peek at my latest finishes, each and every comment you leave behind means so very much to me.

Take care everyone.
Hugs & Stitches ..... Sandy

Some Patriotic Heart Finishes

2010-04-10T09:24:00.008-06:00

I'm still in a HEART mood so here are two more pieces of the Heart Shapey variety.
I found this pattern as a freebie somewhere, sorry but I can't remember where.

Design: "4th of July Quaker Style"
Stitched on 28ct linen 1 over 1 using DMC Color Variations threads.
Cording and tassel made from DMC solid color threads.
I about went bonkers doing this 1 over 1, but I made it through with most of my sanity in tact.

Design: "4th of July Quaker Style"
Stitched on 28ct linen using DMC Variegated threads and white. I added the words myself they were not part of the pattern.
Now I have to figure out how to finish this piece, maybe a no-sew cube since I've never made one before and I feel the need to expand my finishing knowledge.

Thank you all for stopping by and having a peek into my stitching life, all of the comments you leave behind are greatly appreciated and help keep me stitching along.

Wishing you all a wonderful day filled with love and stitches .... Sandy

My Latest Pin Pillow Finish

2010-04-06T14:53:00.003-06:00

Here is my latest pin pillow finish, it also has the honor of being my first piece using silk threads. BIG mistake on my part, because I just adored using them and now I want more. Oh well, maybe some day.

This is the front.

This is the back.

Design: Quaker Heart (Freebie from Piecemakers) I changed the design around quite a bit again.
Stitched on 28ct. white linen from Zweigart using Caron Waterlilies in Pistachio Nut and Kreinik Silk Mori.

This wil be sent to my Mama for Mother's Day along with a pillow that I'm working on.

I'm close to finishing two other pieces and will post photos when I'm done.

I just want to thank all of you for the wonderful comments that you leave for me, they mean so very much and keep me stitching.

Take Care Everyone & Happy Stitching To All
Hugs .... Sandy

Blog Awards

2010-03-23T12:59:00.004-06:00

Edited to show the award I was given.

This is the blog award that was given to me by Carol from http://stitchacrosstheborder.blogspot.com/

Thank you Carol for letting me know it came from you.

I noticed a few days back that someone had given me a very nice Blog Award, unfortunately my computer has been acting up and I can't recall who's blog it was on, but thank you so very much for thinking of my blog.

I do truly appreciate the sentiment behind these awards, but since there are so many amazing blogs that I read I could never bring myself to single out just one let alone pick my favorite few.
So I am respectfully requesting that no awards be given to my blog as I do not want anyone to feel slighted if I don't happen to pick their blog as an award recipient.
Feelings can get hurt so very easily.

I hope you can understand my decision.

Take Care Everyone & Happy Stitching ..... Sandy

More Stitching Finishes

2010-03-17T12:59:00.005-06:00

I finished a couple more pieces.
I tried out a skein of Carries I had in my stash and found it to be very moisture un-friendly. Were talking a just barely damp wash cloth and an iron for a total of 5 to 10 seconds to get out a very small crease, and I had color transfer from the thread to my ironing board cover. The piece wasn't even damp from the rag. Yes, I know that their not colorfast, but that was just a bit to much color transfer for my taste.
I've tried WDW & GAST and have never had that problem.

Design: Quaker Pin Pillow
This was a freebie from The Piecemaker website and I modified it quite a lot to make it look like I wanted. It is stitched on 28ct. linen using Carries Creations thread in Teal Mist.
Finished On: 03-12-2010

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I just love this saying and the antique look of it. It will be framed at a later date when I find the right frame for the piece.

Design: In Everything Give Thanks
Designer: Sandy Orton of Kooler Design Studio
Stitched on 28ct. Tea Monaco using DMC threads. The overall size of the stitching is only
13 1/8"x 1 5/8"

Thank you so very much for stopping by and leaving behind your thoughts, they mean so very much to me and help to keep me stitching and designing.

Take Care & Happy Stitching Everyone,
Sandy

All You Need Is Love!

2010-03-11T11:07:00.005-07:00

I just had to add a little more "LOVE" around the house.
After all you can never have too much love in your home, right?

Design: Love Pin Pillow
This little pin pillow (4.5"x1.75") is stitched on 32ct. white linen using DMC variegated #99.
I just adore this variegated mauve thread and need to pick up more on our next shopping trip.

Design: Love
Stitched on 14ct white perforated paper that had been antiqued by me, using DMC #99 & 94 and a solid DMC. I mounted it on a piece of fabric covered poster-board and trimmed it with a beautiful very dark wine ribbon.

OK, so now I need to quit stitchin' up pieces that look like Valentines Day, but I just love the antique sampler alphabet from the March 2008 Cross-Stitch & Needlework. The alphabet was re-charted by Jane Greenoff.

Take Care Everyone & Happy Stitching
Sandy

Two Little Finished Hearts

2010-03-09T08:41:00.004-07:00

Well, I finally got two of my little heart designs finished up. I was still doing the "Stitch & Rip" twist, but didn't let the "Stitcher's Rage" get in the way of finishing these two pieces.

This first one was one of the "Stitch & Rip" pieces. Wound up ripping out the whole right side of this one after trying to "un-stitch" just the ecru vine's. Too many pulled threads.

Design: Folk Art Heart
Designer: Me
Finished: 05 March 2010
Stitched on 32ct. cream linen using DMC threads, cream Mill Hill Petite beads and a small heart button. Finished it off as a Pin Pillow tied with a cream bow.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This one I made for my DH & myself, kind of like an Anniversary piece of sorts, although that's not until August. I don't think using the DMC metallic was such a great idea as cording, it was very much a pain in the tushie and didn't behave well.

Design: Love One Another
Designer: Me
Finished: 07 March 2010
Stitched on 32ct cream linen using DMC threads and Mill Hill beads.
Finished off as a hanging heart.

I'm working on two other small pieces ( no their not heart shapes), but I have no idea what I'm going to do with them at the moment.
Thanks for stopping by and having a peek at all of my stitching ups & downs. I really do appreciate all of you taking the time to do so and the wonderful comments you leave behind really help to keep me stitching & designing.

Take Care & Happy Stitching Everyone,
Sandy

A Very Crappy Stitching Week

2010-03-03T09:47:00.003-07:00

Oh what an amazingly CRAPPY!! stitching week I had.

I started three different stitchy smalls last week and all I did was stitch & rip, stitch & rip, stitch & rip until I finally gave into the "Stitching Rage" I was feeling and pulled out my fabric shears.
Stitching Rage and big sharp scissors are not a good combination as the picture below will show.

I should have just put all of the stitching away.
Oh well, that one didn't survive but I have two more that escaped the rage and I will try again this week and see how it goes with them.
Maybe I should hide my all four pair of my fabric shears, no because then I'll really need them and not be able to find them.
Guess I'll just have to hope & pray for a better stitching week.

Take Care & Happy Stitching to you all ... Sandy

Three More Finishes to Share

2010-02-23T12:17:00.005-07:00

I tucked three more finishes under my stitching belt over the last couple weeks.

I know I said I was done doing Valentine stitching but couldn't resist this one after I saw the letters in an antique sampler.

Design: Love Pillow
Finished: 02-16-2010
Stitched on an 18ct. evenweave using DMC 4210 in floss and #5 Pearle Cotton. Backed & bordered with a burgundy cotton fabric.

I finally finished off another piece I stitched last year.
For St. Patrick's Day.
I just had to do something for this holiday since my heritage is Irish from my daddy's side.

Design: Little Bit O' Blarney
Designer: The Sweetheart Tree
Finished: 02-19-2010
Finished as a heart ornament using DMC #5 Pearle Cotton in 500, 503 & 504 for the twisted cording trim and the hanger. Backed with White felt.

One more heart finish (I think I'm into heart shapes right now) for St. Patrick's Day.

Design: Sun Catcher #2
Modified to be a bit different from the Valentine's Day heart in my last post.
Finished: 02-23-2010
Stitched on 22ct. Hardanger fabric from Charles Craft using DMC 4045 in floss and #5 Pearle Cotton. Finished with a silver Shamrock and twisted cording in DMC #5 - 500 & 4045, backed with green felt. Stitching backed with dark green satin.

Stitched 1 year ago. Finished 1 day ago

2010-02-13T09:52:00.005-07:00

Some of you might remember this little Hardanger finish from my 2009 finishes album on Webshots.
Well, yesterday I pulled it out of the waiting to be finished box and turned it into a heart ornament for Valentine's Day.

Design: "Suncatcher #2"
Suncatchers I In Hardanger Embroidery (1991)
Designers: Roz Watnemo & Susan Meier
Stitched on 28ct white Monaco using DMC Color Variations 4210.
Trim made from four strands of DMC #5 Perle Cotton 814.

Happy Valentines Day !!
Take Care & Happy Stitching ... Sandy

A Couple of Stitchy Valentine Finishes

2010-02-12T10:54:00.003-07:00

Since it tis the Valentine season, I was inspired to stitch a little more Valentine's Love.

I stitched up the freebie from the Stitcherhood that seems to be popping up on blogs everywhere. I extended the border all the way around and backstitched around the inside. I stitched it on 18ct. Aida hand-dyed by me, using DMC threads. I backed it with the same fabric used in the border and added buttons to complete the look.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This one is for my DH.

Design: "Be My Valentine"
Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 28ct. Coffee dyed & baked evenweave (I did it) using DMC 115 & L310.
Finished as a small pillow using the mini hearts fabric.

Happy Valentines Day Everyone !!!!

Take Care & Happy Stitching ... Sandy

A Little Stitchy Love

2010-02-05T13:30:00.004-07:00

I finished stitching this last night and turned it into a little pillow this afternoon.
This is the first time I've stitched a Valentine related piece.
I used the fabric in the background as the backing fabric.

Design: "Love"
Designer: Jackie Hendricks
March 2010 - Cross-Stitch & Needlework
Stitched on 28ct. Carolina Linen from Charles Craft using DMC 115, 4045 & 4180.
Stitches used: Cross stitch, backstitch, Smyrna Cross, & Rhodes Hearts.
Added a little pink Cupid just for fun.

Take Care & Happy Stitching .... Sandy

A Sampler for Nichole

2010-01-27T11:31:00.009-07:00

This is my last finish for this month. I started designing it on January 2nd after Nichole's first vet visit. I stitched on it almost exclusively from January 7th until the 24th. This was my way of dealing with the grief of losing her.

Out of grief, beauty can be born.

Here are a few closeups of the specialty stitch area's.

I used this piece as a learning sampler for Hardanger, Pulled Thread, Drawn Thread & Ribbon Embroidery as well. This has a little bit of everything in it. It was truly a labor of love. It will be framed with a double mat under glass in time, just need to find the perfect frame.

Here is the finished piece.

Design: "Nichole"
Designer: Me ~ Sandy In Montana
Finished: Sunday, 24 January 2010
Stitched on 32ct. white linen.
Threads used were DMC white, 552, 554 & 924, DMC Coton Perle #8 & #12 in white.
Embellishments were Mill Hill Beads & two Swarovski Crystal pieces.
Stitches used: Petite stitch, Backstitch, Cross Stitch, Satin Stitch Hearts, Four-Sided Stitch, Twisted Latice Band, Algerian Eyelets, Smyrna Cross, Reversed Diagonal Faggoting (Cable Stitch), Kloster Blocks, Needle Weaving, Doves Eye's, Square Filet, Square Filet w/beads, Picot Knots, Drawn Thread, Ribbon weaving & Ribbon Embroidery.

Copyright 2010

Our Heartbreak for January 2010

2010-01-26T12:55:00.005-07:00

Our beautiful baby girl Nichole went across the Rainbow Bridge to play with our other rotties, Nicolas, Rocky, & Beau, on January 6th 2010 due to kidney failure.
She was only 22 months old.

Three 2010 Finishes

2010-01-05T09:33:00.006-07:00

Have you ever wondered what you could do with that 2" wide strip of linen or evenweave you have laying around?

Here is what I did with a couple pieces I had left over.
l to r: mini biscornu (01/03), mini cube (01/02), & mini pillow (01/03) scissor fob's & my snazzy new scissors I bought at HobbyLobby for 40% off. I'll be using them for my Hardanger work, as they are very sharp and pointy. Here is the opposite side of the mini biscornu fob.

And here is the opposite side of the mini pillow fob.

Both are stitched on 28ct. white lugana and lined with white satin. They were stitched with Caron Wildflowers thread in Burnt Toast (old dye lot).
The mini cube fob has 5 Hardanger sides and then my initials and 2010 on the bottom. It is stitched on 32ct. dark khaki or olive linen using Caron Wildflowers thread in Fiesta.
All three are my own designs that I free handed (no pattern) to help occupy my mind.

Stitching In The New Year

2010-01-01T10:56:00.002-07:00

I posted the stitching finish of "Tranquility" from The Sweetheart Tree back in August of 2009.
This is what it looked like then.

And last night I finally got around to finishing it off.
It is now officially a Needle Roll.

Design: Tranquility
Designer: The Sweetheart Tree
It was stitched from the kit, I tied it off using a smoky purple and a white 1/4" satin ribbon. The Hardanger is lined with very light cream satin.

Happy New Year !!!

2009-12-31T13:35:00.008-07:00

(an October sunrise from our front porch)

Well, it's almost time to say goodbye to 2009 and to ring in a brand new year.

I just want to wish all of my friends & family a
Very Happy New Year !!

May 2010 be a year filled with love, laughter, joy and prosperity for you and your family.

May 2010 be filled with lots of stitches and stash for all of you fiber fondling addicts out there ; )
May the frog's never dance on your fabrics or get tangled up in your floss.

Take Care & Happy Stitching
Sandy

The Last Finish of 2009

2009-12-29T10:34:00.004-07:00

This was my Santa Themed mantle this year.
We are the proud owners of eight Santa's and two Angel's (so far), and since we never managed to bring our tree up from the basement this year, I went with a large pine wreath and a few cross stitched ornaments.

This is my last finish of 2009. I finished it on Christmas Eve.

Design: Merry Christmas (12-24-2009)
Designer: Sandy in Montana
Stitched on 28ct. Carolina Linen in Sand from Charles Craft using DMC threads, Mill Hill beads and two snowflakes from Jesse James Company.

Take Care & Happy Stitching
Sandy

Season's Greetings To All

2009-12-22T14:35:00.003-07:00

( "The Holy Family" and my Nativity set )

I want to wish all of you a Very Merry Christmas, and to those of you who celebrate differently Happy Holiday's.

I wish you all great joy, love and peace in your lives.
May you be surrounded with the ones you love and the memories of the ones who loved you.

May you remember the true meaning of Christmas and hold it always in your heart.

Take Care and Happy Stitching
Sandy

2nd Memory Ornament for my MIL

2009-12-19T11:00:00.004-07:00

Here is the second "Memory Needle Roll Ornaments" for my MIL.
This one is in Memory of her father.

Design: "Memory Needle Roll Ornament"
Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 28ct Zweigart linen hand-dyed by me in a light tan rinse. Using DMC, GAST in Evergreen & Kreinik threads. Tied with 1/4" brown satin ribbon.

Merry Christmas to All
Happy Stitching ... Sandy

1st Memory Ornament for my MIL

2009-12-19T10:39:00.003-07:00

I decided to stitch up "Memory Needle Roll Ornaments" for my MIL for Christmas. This is the first of two.
In memory of her mother.

Design: "Memory Needle Roll Ornament"
Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 28ct. Zweigart linen hand-dyed by me in a light wine rinse. Using DMC threads #'s 500, 501, 915 & 917, Mill Hill beads in white and two swarovski crystal butterflies in wine/magenta. Tied with sheer white 3/8" ribbons.

Wishing all of my readers a
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

Happy Stitching Everyone .... Sandy

The Autumn Trio Is Finished

2009-12-14T10:14:00.004-07:00

I finished the final piece for my "Autumn Stitching Accessories Set". I could only fit the scissor fob and needle case in the box, not to mention that I ran out of DMC 935 (only one strand left) after I finished the needle case, now that's cutting it close.

Here is the happy little family all together.Here is the needle case.

Design: Autumn Needle Case (12-12-09)
Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 32ct. hand-dyed linen (dyed by me) using Caron "Wildflowers" Raspberry Sherbet and DMC 935 threads and Mill Hill petite beads in Ginger. Lined with dark green satin and four felt pages for needles, tied with 3/8" sheer ribbon in dark green.

Merry Christmas & Happy Stitching !!

Presenting the Autumn Scissor Fob !!

2009-12-10T10:40:00.006-07:00

I finished the scissor fob to go with the distressed Autumn box.
It's just little thing at 2" square.
Here's a pic of the front (L) and the back (R).

Design: "Autumn Scissor Fob"
Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 32ct. hand-dyed linen (dyed by me) using Caron Wildflowers in Raspberry Sherbet and DMC 935 threads and Mill Hill Petite beads in Ginger.
The Hardanger is backed with dark green satin.
Cording made from 935 and Raspberry Sherbet.

Merry Christmas to all !!
Take Care & Happy Stitching !

Baby It's Cold Outside & A Finish

2009-12-07T10:35:00.003-07:00

"Baby It's Cold Outside" the old song goes and it's so true for today.
The temp reads somewhere around +2 so it's a wood stove heating day and there's snow all around. Yes, I'm not very fond of winter, but it's what life in Montana brings.
I tried my hand at crackle painting and distressing the wood box I bought at Michael's the other weekend and I liked it for the most part, so I designed an Autumn themed/colored insert for the top. I'm thinking of designing some stitching smalls to match the box, maybe a needle case, scissor fob and small biscornu.

Design: "Autumn Hardanger" with distressed box
Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 32ct. linen hand-dyed by me using Wildflowers in Raspberry Sherbet and DMC threads, Mill Hill petite beads in Ginger and Jesse James Co. buttons for the box corners. The Hardanger is lined with dark green satin.

Take Care & Happy Stitching Everyone
Sandy

If God Brings You To It - Chart

2009-12-06T11:47:00.004-07:00

Here is another little gift from me for your stitching pleasure, enjoy

(just click, print and stitch)

My First Biscornu !!

2009-11-30T09:32:00.004-07:00

Back somewhere around the second week of November I decided I wanted to give a Biscornu a try. So I sat down and started designing (took a couple days) and after the stitching was done I checked out a couple of online tutorials then sat down to see if I could put what I read into a proper finish.
It was so much easier than I thought it would be, but then came the search for the perfect button for the top (waited 3 weeks to find them), I just love the scroll work with the crystal. I chose a heart for the bottom since it already had stitched hearts.
I was amazed at how nice it turned out.
I really do think I have become addicted to stitching small items.
Is there a 12 step program out there for this addiction?
Maybe blogs that encourage this addiction would be better. LOL

( click for a bigger view)

Design: "Winter Berries Biscornu"
Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 32ct. cream linen using DMC threads and Mill Hill petite beads.

Did a wee bit of craft/stash shopping

2009-11-30T09:10:00.006-07:00

I finally got to do a bit of craft/stash shopping on Saturday.
I bought some buttons and charms, ribbons, some fat quarters, a little wood box and a couple of needed DMC skeins.
The box has a removable insert so I can add a stitched piece to the top.
I couldn't resist the fabrics they are just to cute.
The fabrics and buttons came from Hancock fabrics and the rest from Michale's.

Here are a little closer view of the buttons and charms for adding to stitching.

A Thanksgiving Day Stitching Finish

2009-11-27T10:25:00.006-07:00

This was the view from our back yard last night, what a beautiful display of colors.

After reading Heidi's comment yesterday morning I thought I would do an ornament using the one inch cube idea. So after the cooking & eating were done I sat down and stitched. Even my DH thought it was just to cute.

(click for a bigger view)

Design: Noel Cube Ornament (11-26-2009)
Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 28ct. ivory lugana using "Wildflowers" & DMC threads and RedRed MH petite beads. Made the hanger from DMC.

A Little Scissor Fob Cube

2009-11-25T22:09:00.007-07:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE !!!

Well, I was out in cyber land perusing stitching blogs and saw the cutest little scissor fob.
It was a little cube and I just fell in love with it and had to see if I could figure it out.

So without further ado here are the before and after pictures of my design.

Here are the six little 1" squares after being stitched and in bad lighting.

And here is the finished Fob.
Design: 1" Square Scissor Fob Cube
Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 28ct. white lugana using Caron "Wildflowers" threads in Slate and Evergreen. Cording made from the same threads.

My Needle's A Smokin' !!

2009-11-23T13:13:00.005-07:00

My needle has just been smokin' this week. I managed to get in four more finishes from 11-18 to 11-23.

I decided that I liked "If God Brings You To It" so much that I needed to make one for myself.

Design: "If God Brings You To It" (11-18-2009)
Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 18ct. Fiddlers Lite Aida using Caron "Wildflowers" thread in Raspberry Sherbet accented with Jesse James Co. buttons and handmade cording.

Then I had to make a couple of magnets for my mama's 82nd birthday on Thursday the 19th. Yes I was born exactly two weeks to the day before her birthday, how's that for a birthday gift that keeps on giving.

Design: " If God Brings You To It" (11-20-2009) & "I Love You" (11-21-2009)
Designer: Sandy In Montana
If God stitched on 18ct Fiddlers Lite Aida using Caron "Wildflowers" Black Cherry and accented with Jesse James Co. buttons and hand braided ribbon trim.
Love stitched on 14ct. plastic canvas using Caron "Wildflowers" Lilac, DMC ecru and white and accented with Jesse James Co. buttons.

Then I felt the need for another Christmas ornament for the tree. I have to say that I truly love the way this one turned out.

Design: "The True Heart of Christmas" (11-23-2009)
Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 25ct. cream linen using Caron "Wildflowers" Royal Jewels accented with Mill Hill beads in Rainbow, 4mm Round Bicone Swarovski Crystals and a 5mm Swarovski Crystal Butterfly. Trimmed in burgundy satin cording. This has cross stitch, back stitch and over one stitching.

Two More Magnetic Finishes

2009-11-17T09:03:00.004-07:00

I stitched up a couple more magnets. These went to the same person that I made "#1 Reason Not To Clean" for. She liked that one so much that she requested these for family members, and yes I'm getting paid for them.

Design: "If God Brings You To It"
Designed By: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 18ct. Fiddlers Lite using Carrie's Creations in Teal Mist (right) and DMC Color Variations in 4240 (left) with a bunch of Jesse James Co. buttons, a little gold metal star and some hand-braided jute trim. The saying was her choice, I just charted it out.

Our 2009 Christmas Ornament

2009-11-08T16:00:00.004-07:00

I finally got around to designing our 2009 Christmas Ornament for the tree.
I've fallen in love with these mini needle roll ornaments, so it was only natural for me to make one more. I decided that holly leaves and poinsettia's were a good combination, although it took me quite a while to get the leaves just right.

Designer: Sandy In Montana
Design: Holly Christmas 2009
Stitched on 28ct. white Lugana by Charles Craft using Caron Wildflowers in Holiday and DMC Color Variations in 4045 & 4210 and Mill Hill petite beads in Red Red & Victorian Gold.

Happy Birthday To ME!!

2009-11-06T15:34:00.002-07:00

Yesterday was my birthday.
My DH suffering from a cold still managed to bring me home a cake.
He's such a sweetie.
I made us steak and shrimp for the birthday dinner.
DH later complained that he really wanted to take me out for dinner. I told him our dinner was better than the local diner anyway, so not going out was no biggie. Then he complained that the cake was just a little cheapie. I told him I didn't care about that either, it was CHOCOLATE and I'm OK with that. He did give cash for stash last weekend, since he never knows what to get for me, and my mama called to wish me Happy Birthday so it was a great day! in my opinion.
Now to decide what to spend the cash on?

Memory Ornament for DH's Dad

2009-11-04T14:01:00.004-07:00

I finished another memory ornament, this one is in memory of my DH's dad.
I chose to design pine bough's and pine cones for this one as his dad worked for the National Forest Service for many years and also had a logging business back in the 50's.

Before finishing.

Design: "In Loving Memory" (Mountain Rustic version)
Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 32ct. Raw Linen by Zweigart using DMC in 500, WDW in 1269 - Chestnut, GAST in 0110 - Dried Thyme and 1110 - Sable & Delica Beads in 127 - Gold Luster. Tied with dark brown 1/4" satin ribbon, twisted cord hanger made from DMC in 500 & 898, ends are Hem Stitched using two strands of DMC 898.
Overall finished size is 4.5" long by 4" around.

Memory Ornament Chart

2009-10-30T09:11:00.006-06:00

Here is a chart for making the "In Loving Memory" needle roll ornament. I chose not to list the colors I used so that you can make this a custom piece using your loved ones favorite colors. The black dots are for french knots or beads. The long black lines are for name and date placement only, do not stitch them. The alphabet is for personalization and is not part of the design. This chart uses a Half Diamond Eyelet.
This site has great instructions for doing specialty stitches: http://www.fidella.com/webstitch/needle_stitch.html

(just click, print and stitch)

All I ask in return is that you stitch this up and post a picture on your blog or photo album so I can see how yours turned out.

Needle Roll Ornament Finishing

2009-10-30T07:51:00.009-06:00

OK, here we go. I hope these instructions are clear enough for you to follow.

1. Center and stitch your design on a 6'w x 10"h piece of 32 count linen.
Your design should measure no more than 60w x 45h (about 4"w x 3"h).
You can use any count fabric you like, but bear in mind that it will effect the overall size of your ornament.

2. From the top of the finished stitching, count up 15 threads. Remove the next four (4) horizontal threads. This will form your ribbon weaving area.

3. Count another 15 threads above the weaving area and remove two (2) horizontal threads.
This will form the area for working the Hemstitch. Unfortunately I do not have a web site that can show you how to do the Hemstitch, I learned from a book a long time ago.

If you do not want to do the Hemstitch you can opt. to stitch a row of Tent Stitches (Half Cross Stitches) from edge to edge in place of removing the two threads, then work a blind hem for finishing

4. Count up 32 threads or 1" above your hem area and remove one (1) thread. Cut the fabric in the space made by pulling the thread to ensure you have a straight cut.

To make your hem, fold fabric a quarter of the way between your cut edge and the pulled threads or tent stitches, press. Fold again making sure that the first fold lines up with the top of the pulled threads or tent stitches.
Work hem stitch or a blind hem by catching your thread on the back of the tent stitches. You can also finish the hems using a sewing machine. Repeat for opposite end.

5. Fold fabric in half lengthwise with right sides together, stitch a 5/8" seam. Trim seam to 1/4" and finger press open. (Use a no fray product on the edges to control fraying)

Turn tube right side out.

6. Cut a 24" length of 1/4" ribbon in half, giving you two (2) 12" lengths. Thread one 12" length of ribbon onto a size 22 tapestry needle. Starting on the bottom of the ornament, in the center front of the ribbon row, weave the ribbon through the vertical threads going under two (2) then over two (2) all the way around the ornament. Repeat on other end.
Pull the ribbon ends to close the bottom of the ornament and tie in a knot. Stuff the ornament firmly with fiber-fill.
Make a 6" to 8" piece of twisted cording in colors to match stitching or use purchased cording or ribbon, to make a hanger. Secure the hanger inside of the ornament either by hand stitching it in place within the seam or as pictured by threading the hanger through a bead.

7. Pull the remaining ribbon ends to close the top of the ornament making sure that all stuffing is inside and that raw ends of the hanger cannot be seen. Tie in a knot, then tie bows and adjust and trim tails to suit.

There you go, a one of a kind keepsake to be treasured for years to come.

My Own Little World Chart

2009-10-29T13:54:00.005-06:00

Here is the chart for my favorite saying of all time, and yes it does apply to me especially if I'm stitching or just fondleing around in my stitching stuff.
"In My Own Little World"
(just click, print and stitch)

Make sure you post to your blog or photo album when you finish it up so I can see how it turned out.

The Chart for Not To Clean Up !!

2009-10-28T12:39:00.009-06:00

OK all you messy ladies, I figured out how to get a chart to post on here.
So for your stitching enjoyment may I present
"The #1 Reason Not To Clean Up"
(just click, print and stitch)

Make sure you post to your blog or photo album when yours is finished so I can see how it turned out.

Old Stitching = New Finishes

2009-10-28T09:47:00.004-06:00

I've been working on getting some of my older pieces finished up so they are no longer orphands in a box. I managed to get two of them done. I still have several more to figure out what I want to do with them.

Design: Welcome Autumn
My own concoction using parts (pumpkins & indian corn) from Cross Stitching Country Magazine. It was stitched in 2006 on 14ct. aida by Charles Craft using DMC and Wildflowers threads.
I finished it as a Bell Pull and added more of those great Jesse James Company buttons.

Designer: Sandy In Montana
It was stitched in 2007 on 28ct. Monaco by Charles Craft using Wildflowers thread.

I was going to finish it as a Biscornu, but made it into a coaster/tray instead.

Two More Stitching Finishes for 2009

2009-10-26T14:53:00.007-06:00

Hello my sister's in stitching, I hope everyone is getting in at least a little stitching for your soul's.

I want you all to know that I do read every little note you leave behind before I add them to my blog, so I have been paying attention to what you have to say.
I'm trying to figure out how to export a few of my original charts so that I may share with the rest of you here on my blog, but it's taking a bit of time to get it worked out.
For those of you that fell in love with "The #1 Reason Not To Clean" I found the saying on a plaque in The Stitchery catalog and just charted it out, stitched it and added whatever buttons I thought looked cute.
And yes Lee ;-) I've heard your request wanting to learn to make the mini needle roll ornament and I'm trying very hard to put what I see in my head into words that will make since to someone trying to follow them, I have the pictures, just need to get the words right.

Now, on to my latest finishes!!

This has been my favorite saying for year's and year's and I've finally gotten around to charting it out and stitching it up. It now hangs on the door to my stitching/craft/sewing room and boy o' boy is it ever appropriate. I try to ignore the voices of the stitching imps telling me to go in "and "just look" at all the pretty floss and fabric". Of course they always seem to win. Maybe that's why I've gotten so much stitching and designing done this year ;-)

Design: "In My Own Little World"
Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 32ct. hand-dyed (by me) linen, using DMC Color Variations #4135 Chilean Sunset. Embellished with buttons from the Jesse James Co's. Dress-It-Up collections and two tiny gold stars. The hanger is made from braided jute twine and it was turned into a mini pillow hanger.

Here is the last of the memory ornament's that I have made for my family. This one is for my sister.

Design: "In Loving Memory"
Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on 32ct. cream linen from Zweigart using DMC threads and Delica beads.

The #1 Reason NOT to Clean Up!!

2009-10-23T13:25:00.004-06:00

I stitched this magnet up last night and finished it off this afternoon.
It's for a friend who works with my DH.

Stitched on 18ct. Fiddler's Lite Aida by Charles Craft using WDW - Mulberry and a bunch of country buttons in purple's.

Needle Roll Ornament #3 Finished

2009-10-22T09:49:00.006-06:00

I finished the third ornament in Memory of my Daddy last night, only one more to go. That will take care of my sister and two brothers.
I think I will send the green one to my Mama instead of keeping it, then I will stitch one for myself and one for DH in Memory of his Dad. That should take care of my family, unless one of them has a special request for another departed family member. Then, of course, I would gladly stitch another. This one will go to my brother in Colorado.

Designer: Sandy In Montana
Stitched on: 32ct. cream linen by Zweigart
using DMC Rayon threads and Mill Hill beads.

In Loving Memory" Ornament #2 Finished

2009-10-13T15:39:00.006-06:00

I finished my second "In Loving Memory" needle roll ornament yesterday in honor of my Daddy. I made this one for myself and stitched the shamrocks motif from one of my other designs that I have yet to stitch up. I used the shamrocks in honor of my fathers Irish heritage. The little heart in the center is from an old abalone earing that I cut the post off of and attached with a permanent glue dot.

Designer: Sandy In Montana
Design: "In Loving Memory"
32ct. ivory linen from Zweigart, DMC threads, Delica Beads in #127 Gold Luster,
24" of 1/4" ivory satin ribbon & one old pierced earing.

Apples & Pears & More SNOW!!!!

2009-10-09T13:53:00.004-06:00

Yesterday DH & I went out and harvested the rest of the apples and pears that were left on the trees after he got home from work. I wanted to get as much as possible before our latest cold snap hit. And has it, you betcha, it's been snowing off and on all day today and has barely it 30.

Here is part of the harvest, I still have a large canvas bag full of apples.
It looks like I'll be baking apple pies and such over the weekend since it's going to be in the 20's for the highs and down around 10 over night.

Here's one of our apple trees this morning. Good thing we did the harvesting yesterday. The pear tree is on the other side of the antique potato planter behind the apple tree.

This is a view from my back porch around noon. We have about 2" of snow so far, but it's not done yet. This storm came down from Canada, thanks a bunch Canada, please feel free to keep the rest of your snow :) If you click on the picture to make it bigger you can see the falling snowflakes.

Another Original Design Finish !!

2009-10-07T10:25:00.005-06:00

I finally finished one of my "Memory of Daddy" ornaments after scrapping the original one I started with a couple months back (didn't like the Carolina Linen I used) and designing a whole new chart. I like the new one much better and will be making the other three in the same way. I may need to work on the finishing a bit more I think, but am pretty well satisfied.

Here is the finished stitching.

Design: "Memory of Daddy" - Ornament
Designer: ME!!
Stitched on 32ct. cream linen by Zweigart using DMC Satin Floss (and lots of Thread Heaven), and Mill Hill beads.
Specialty Stitches: Half Diamond Eyelets, Small Rhodes Hearts, & Rhodes Diamonds. Also used cross stitch and running stitch.
Edge hemmed using the hem stitch (first time I tried this stitch).
Tied with satin ribbon and hanger made from DMC Satin Floss.
The ornament is 3-1/2" tall and 4-1/2" in circumference not counting the hanger which is another 1-1/4".

Autumn's First Snow

2009-10-05T11:33:00.003-06:00

It's October, and in true Montana fashion we got our first snow fall of the season. This is what I woke up to this morning.

It's now doing the light snow thing but it's getting a little warmer, almost 40 so it's also starting to melt in some places. Have I ever mentioned, I Hate Snow, but I've lived in northern California (90 miles north of Reno, Nevada) and now Montana since moving with my DH from central California. He's a mountain guy, born and raised in northern California and I was born and raised a central California gal, but I do love Montana and the rural area we live in.

Our Jeep's

2009-10-05T10:59:00.006-06:00

We found out from our insurance company that our yellow Jeep aka: Tonka Toy was totaled in an accident back in January several months before we bought it, so, you guessed it, they wouldn't cover the repair cost's.
We did get some cash back from them after the buyback fee, so my DH did all the work and got our Tonka Toy back in to drivable condition with a few upgrades.

Here are some before deer damage, deer damage, & after repairs photo's.

His first photo back in May when DH brought Tonka home.

Taken in August after a Kamakazie Deer popped out in front our Jeep. Not a pretty sight.

After my DH replaced the header, grill, headlights, & bumper. New beefier steel bumper with a winch, he's now on the look out for a suitable grill guard to mount on the bumper. He added a roof rack in July and now has our Hi-Lift jack and a shovel mounted on the side's.
I think he looks great!
That's my Lil' Jeep next to Tonka we got him running on Friday, but he wouldn't start with out DH's help on Sunday so I took him for a drive around town for a bit and now he won't start again this morning. We really don't want to have to scrap him, but also don't want to put a whole lot of money into him either, He's a 1994 and has over 200 thousand miles on him, so DH will have to decide what to do next.

Stitched Up One Of My Needle Roll Designs

2009-09-23T13:25:00.003-06:00

I've been playing with my Pattern Maker Pro again and decided that I really need to start stitching some of the designs I've come up with instead of just designing my own and then stitching someone else's designs.
So without further ado, here is one of my Needle Roll designs laden with Hardanger, specialty stitches and beads.

Full view

Design: Heart & Vines Needle Roll
Designer: Sandy in MT
Fabric: 28ct. Amsterdam Blue (Blue Wing) Cashel Linen by Zweigart
Threads: DMC Color Variations 4150 Sand Dune in #5 Pearl Cotton and Cotton Floss
Beads: Mill Hill seed beads and petite beads in cream
Tied with 1/4" satin ribbon in cream

I am seriously thinking of submitting this design to one of the cross stitch magazines, but am not sure which one yet. I also have a needle case and scissor fob to match on the design board waiting for me to stitch them up.

Just want to let you all know, yet again, that I really do appreciate all of the lovely little notes that you leave behind in your visits. They keep me inspired to continue my designing and stitching endeavors.

One More Scissor Fob Stitched

2009-09-12T16:12:00.003-06:00

Well, in true me style, I just had to stitch up a scissor fob to match my newest needle roll. I took the center part of the needle roll and re-worked most of the pine and completely changed the little pine cones to make it fit within the outline from the Baby Shamrocks fob I stitched up last month. I really like my version of the little pine cones over the ones stitched on the needle roll.

Scissor Fob front (left) & back (right)
Whispers In The Pines
Designed using: The Sweetheart Tree & Me
Stitched on 30ct. raw linen using DMC & WDW threads and Mill Hill beads. DMC 500 & 644 were used for the cord & tassel.

I've also been working on the eagle for my DH, but won't have a picture until it's finished.
I think I really am trying to make up for 2008 (aka: the year of NO stitching).

My Third Needle Roll Finish

2009-09-08T12:08:00.002-06:00

I just adore patterns by The Sweetheart Tree and have now modified two of her patterns to come up with what I wanted to stitch. I wanted to do a more rustic feeling needle roll, so I took a chart that I already had and used half of the bands to come up with what you see below.

Design: Whispers In The Pines
Designer: The Sweetheart Tree
Stitched On: 30ct. Natural Linen using DMC threads and WDW Mallard, Mill Hill beads, 1/4" satin ribbon and a Larch cone that was coated in real gold by my uncle who used to go into the mountains with his gold panning equipment.

Thank you for all of the little notes you have left behind as you have wandered down the dirt road that leads to my life. I treasure each and every one of them.

Rest In Peace Little Weasel

2009-09-04T09:00:00.003-06:00

Last night at 11:30 pm my little Shelby Leigh left to go play across the Rainbow Bridge with her past ferret playmates Kirby, Harley, Sammy, Sallie & Sarah. I held her safely in my arms while she left. I will truly miss her little weasel kisses.

Shelby (top) & Sallie in the sun

Sarah Jo keeping Shelby warm (she lost a bit of fur due to age and adrenial issues)

Shelby Leigh Weaselson
14 February 2002 - 03 September 2009
You were truly loved and will be greatly missed.

I Almost Forgot About This Wee One!!

2009-09-02T10:57:00.003-06:00

I just about forgot that I finished stitching "Little Bit O' Blarney" a couple of days prior to making the mini needle roll fob. I'm going to play around with this one to see if I can turn it into a scissor case. I think that will make a nice little sewing set with the companion Shamrock Needle Roll and Baby Shamrocks Scissor Fob.

Design: Little Bit O' Blarney
Designer: The Sweetheart Tree
Fabric: 32ct. linen
Threads & Embellishments: DMC, Mill Hill beads & white cats-eye luminescent heart
Stitches: Cross stitch, back stitch & satin stitch

A Stitchy Experiment

2009-09-01T12:21:00.006-06:00

Now ever since I made my first needle roll a few weeks back I wondered if it would be possible to make a mini needle roll fob. I checked on the net and only found one design with a not so great picture, so knew they were out there.

I didn't give it much more thought until I saw Meari's latest blog post at Meari's Musings and saw her two little fobs hanging from her scissor/spoon display rack. Needless to say I got on my pattern maker program and started playing around with it until I came up with the design you see stitched up below.
I still need to work on some of the finishing if I plan to do more, but I don't think it's to bad of an out come for my first attempt. Maybe it should be smaller?

I stitched it on 28ct. white Monaco by Charles Craft with DMC threads and Mill Hill beads. I used Rhodes Heart's, Tent stitch, cross stitch and back stitch. I made the cord and tassel from DMC thread and tied it off with 1/16" purple ribbon. The design was only 2" square.

So, what do you think? Please be truthful, I can take it. I really appreciate all of the comments you leave behind after your visits. Thanks a bunch and Happy Stitching.

Tranquility is finished and the joy's of upside down nappin'

2009-08-26T11:10:00.005-06:00

Hello Everyone !!!
Here is the King of Upside Down Nappin', aka Cody, aka Monster.
I'm bettin' that it made a few of you giggle, hope no one spit their drink on their screen.

Well, I have another finish, just the stitchin' part, I still have to figure out how I want to finish it.

"Tranquility" by The Sweetheart Tree
Kit contained DMC thread, WDW Wisteria, white Cats-eye Luminescent Hearts, Mill Hill beads and 32ct Lilac linen from Zweigart.
The second row of backstitched lines is off by one thread, because the pattern was off. It should have looked the same as the bottom section, but I didn't notice it until I had stitched quite a bit and I refused to do any more froggin'. I already had my fill of that on this piece.

The Post Rottie Shamrock Needle Roll

2009-08-25T09:42:00.002-06:00

Thought I should finally share a picture of my Shamrock Needle Roll after I re-finished it from the rottweiler attack/playtime fiasco. So here it is with new green ribbons instead of white and a green scroll-work heart instead of the four white beads (one of the beads was missing but I didn't notice right away). I think it looks better withe the green accessories.

Bountiful Acorns Scissor Fob

2009-08-24T13:03:00.004-06:00

I wanted a scissor fob to go with my Bountiful Acorns Needle Roll but after searching The Sweetheart Tree web site and a bit on line I couldn't find one so I decided that since I have Pattern Maker Software on my PC I would make one to match.

I took my needle roll pattern and the pattern from my shamrock fob and below is what I came up with. I think it could pass for one directly from The Sweetheart Tree which is what I was hoping
for.

Stitched on 32ct. linen with DMC threads and Mill Hill beads, buttons are by Jesse James & Co. Inc. from their Dress It Up collections.

Off To The Shop

2009-08-21T10:26:00.003-06:00

Well, the hauler came and took our Jeep off to the shop this morning.
It still runs, which is a good thing, but with the radiator leaking like a sieve and the fan being bent it can't be driven far. DH asked one of the guys at work about the air bag not deploying and he said that they are set for certain types of impacts and that the deer might not have hit in just the right place or hard enough to set it off. He used to be a mechanic at a couple of dealerships in Billings but got tired of fixing cars, so DH has a good source of mechanical advice when he needs it.

I found out from DH that the deer ran out between two on coming cars. Just as he was getting close to the first car out ran the deer and he had no place to go and had just slammed on the brakes when he hit the deer. Of course the second car didn't even stop to see if he was ok, but it was 5:25 AM and still fairly dark.

Deer around here are plentiful and there are so many accidents from them coming up from the ditch, which is usually covered in fog early in the morning. It's about a 10 to 20 mile stretch of two lane where everything from deer, raccoons, skunks, opossums, porcupines and even weasels run across the road. Wildlife is beautiful but such a hazard on the roads, but that is the price we pay for moving into their territory and rural areas can be one of the worst in my opinion.

On the stitching front, I'm working on "Tranquility" by The Sweetheart Tree and have had the frogs come to visit in a grand way doing Ballroom dancing all over the place. I have had to do major frogging two days in row and almost ran for the shotgun to go frog hunting.

I had 3/4 of the vine border done when I noticed that I was at least one or two threads off and it was screwing up the works, so I had to frog all of that, since no matter how hard I tried I couldn't find where I was off. Then started another spot and that was off, then another start and that was off, so I put it away for a day and am now back on track. What a NIGHTMARE !!!
I'll post a pic when I get a bit more done on it or it's finished, don't know yet.

I want to thank every one who has been reading, following and posting comments on here, I really appreciate it so very much.

Take Care and Stay Safe...... Bye

Kamakazie Deer On The Road !!!

2009-08-20T13:47:00.004-06:00

DEER AND JEEPS DO NOT MIX !!!

This is the end result of three deer jumping up out of the ditch and onto the road at 5:25 AM just one and a quarter miles from home and only about 10 minutes or so after my DH left for work.
The insurance company is sending a tow truck from the repair shop to come get it tomorrow so they can get started with the repairs.
I Thank GOD that DH was not injured, it didn't even make the airbag deploy.
Needless to say, the deer did not survive.

An Autumn Needle Roll Finish

2009-08-16T10:30:00.005-06:00

I finished another needle roll by The Sweetheart Tree, that makes 3 finishes in two weeks, HOORAY!!! That's a lot for me.

"Bountiful Acorns Needle Roll"
by "The Sweetheart Tree"
Stitched on 32ct. linen using DMC threads and Mill Hill beads.

I didn't have the amber cabochon heart for this one so I substituted the little acorn instead.