tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52312990161834633312024-02-29T02:13:27.250-08:00Anna Pearson's Needlepoint BlogAnna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-51072952674033214902021-05-14T08:15:00.000-07:002021-05-14T08:15:39.406-07:00Needlepoint, your passport to a Magic Carpet<p> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It’s difficult to travel, impossible in some countries, many of us have a fear of flying - come along with me on a </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">magic carpet ride.</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-7dfe322f-7fff-7232-995a-d8631b8f7be5"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For over more than 50 years I have always loved travelling to interesting destinations and seeing buildings, decorative architecture, exciting tiles or mosaic floors and, on my return, have used these memories as inspiration for my needlepoint designs. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Each design has a story, some beautiful and happy others less so. In fact, in some cases, a terrible event has befallen the area shortly after we had left.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, as I stitch my mind wanders back – on my </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">magic carpet</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> – to the occasion, place and circumstances of when I first was intrigued by the scene. However, one big regret is that I have not kept a ‘travel diary’ much to my dismay now, so while putting these memories together I have sometimes resorted to Wikipedia or Google for confirmation of some detail. These sessions together have added to my knowledge and become part of my magic carpet ride.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One of my earliest inspiration was in Scotland; I extended a needlepoint course I ran in the Lake District and went onto Glasgow and the Burrell Collection. Sir William Burrell was a shipping merchant and art collector and in 1944 gave his wonderful art collection to the City of Glasgow.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Around the same period, William Randolph Hearst well known as a very successful newspaper publisher commissioned Hearst Castle in San Simeon in California with money inherited from his father. The story told is that there was great rivalry between Burrell and Hearst when acquiring works of art and particularly choice pieces were snapped up under the other one’s nose! Both of these places are wonderful places to visit. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkpoDgIiPIV2_2TkpSaq9z0qMf6AdpXo_LHrymFmilgimPMHEWizoUlcmw6YWN4gTuRas68e_vAM8Zf6FYVtbPLSp1up_qW3YMjqeVLZwtc9MdZIfvoMeFo_M0BSf6U3ztu1BDCtYPMKW/s320/IMG_2134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkpoDgIiPIV2_2TkpSaq9z0qMf6AdpXo_LHrymFmilgimPMHEWizoUlcmw6YWN4gTuRas68e_vAM8Zf6FYVtbPLSp1up_qW3YMjqeVLZwtc9MdZIfvoMeFo_M0BSf6U3ztu1BDCtYPMKW/s0/IMG_2134.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">During the visit to the Burrell Collection, a beautiful Roman mosaic of a cockerel caught my eye and sometime later – on a trip to Sweden, during the day when my husband was working I was able to work on my interpretation with a tartan background. The tartan is Huntly which is known as the Cock of the North and the chair shown here is NOT a fabric with the cockerel appliqued it was all stitched! Details, materials and illustrations are given in my book ‘Needlepoint, Stitch by Stitch’. Mosaics often inspire needlepoint, both the geometric and animal/people designs; another favourite of mine is the series in Piazza Armerina in Sicily where the Bikini Girls (4H CENTURY) is reputed to be the most replicated mosaic known; the subject, 10 young girls engaged in various gym activities clad in ‘bikinis’ didn’t inspire me to work a panel, perhaps I was wrong.</span><p></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">On a practical note, the seat of the chair, after many years had become quite saggy; I always advise refreshing upholstery before fixing new canvas work, but in this case, the existing work was taken off, extra padding introduced and the canvas work refixed; ready to give pleasure and service for many more years</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Other designs have less happy associations, Cathedral Tiles comes from encaustic wall tiles in Christchurch Cathedral in Christchurch, South Island New Zealand. We had a lovely trip there, but shortly after returning home in 2011, they suffered a tremendous earthquake and much of the city including the Cathedral were destroyed. Since then a transitional pro-cathedral constructed in cardboard has been built including a dramatic area of stain glass has been installed – well shown on the Google site. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUnTtbZeInpI3k_CdAfePBsIdgCULg6BJ_Yg_4-TDCPTwciavoy7nABQrpecdmT-m5lsYqA41yx4yNgqnpn3hYZ4Gc1sWxMKDFe3ginGbxX2rjSWLVtmgAT0kD7T8jDuwRU9LqrYyr_7hX/s320/IMG_2135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUnTtbZeInpI3k_CdAfePBsIdgCULg6BJ_Yg_4-TDCPTwciavoy7nABQrpecdmT-m5lsYqA41yx4yNgqnpn3hYZ4Gc1sWxMKDFe3ginGbxX2rjSWLVtmgAT0kD7T8jDuwRU9LqrYyr_7hX/s0/IMG_2135.jpg" /></a></div>Another sad story linked to Syria; we returned to the UK only days before the bitter Syrian Civil War broke out. My memories of all those ancient buildings still haunt me but in particular the ceiling in the Throne Room in the medieval Citadel in Aleppo which we visited on a sunny day with no premonition of the disasters to come. In fact, I found an exciting shop specialising in decorative chains; certain that friends were planning on a visit in the near future I purchased some samples with the intension of getting more if they proved suitable for the leather clutch bags I design. Sadly they were unable to visit, worse still I didn’t get more chain!</span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">So I hope that looking at my website you will understand from the names of each design my love for translating them into needlepoint.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Another of my favourite pieces is ‘The Basket Makers of Road Town, Tortola. We have, for the last four years, spent time in the BVIs, impossible with lock-down so my interpretation of a watercolour by Jill Tattersall reminds me of those lovely sunny days and friendly people.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqJuqGm-pbv_QvNfygDwHpq0PYOXdK9CSXwDaDLhjxvuPju8hVfHasQNDbTpnMpiJV55xVzjwfGRJ53gqjU4_IAtxPNRod_8uc58ftXlBGSz_ueI_yhXofKTX3wg6KZtsFsAurGtm42yi9/s320/IMG_2140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqJuqGm-pbv_QvNfygDwHpq0PYOXdK9CSXwDaDLhjxvuPju8hVfHasQNDbTpnMpiJV55xVzjwfGRJ53gqjU4_IAtxPNRod_8uc58ftXlBGSz_ueI_yhXofKTX3wg6KZtsFsAurGtm42yi9/s0/IMG_2140.jpg" /></a></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The other travel I love, on the </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">magic carpet</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, is time travel. Needlepoint has been practiced for decoration, utility and I believe to while away the hours in centuries past as we do now.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Working my own Florentine pieces, I imagine the Elizabethan ladies stitching, frequently large pieces such as bed hangings or even complete wall hangings for a room. A truly spectacular example is the Mary Queen of Scots’ bed hangings at Parham House an Elizabethan house in Sussex. Florentine is my choice of the moment and I am enjoying playing with traditional patterns in vibrant colours and in this Citron Gris design marrying Florentine with Victorian Pattern Darning both traditional techniques with a modern twist.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Around that time printed pattern books and herbals became available and avid embroiderers copied animals in particular with no idea of their size so a lion could be a similar size to a snail. I believe that Durer made his series of woodcuts without ever seeing a rhinoceros!</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixRKFLWdvn3agleNRt1_K4p7typCn4ep6-OF6vOvXZPj7WzAsk0EHf0Ya9bWEymFVKVNbpX_lPFKBbpIhdJJTzSppQaUZGTOyizqiIUt6OkUHKSSSXeKbgpzovAB8jkWYIKEmKIr1Yk3F8/s320/IMG_2137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixRKFLWdvn3agleNRt1_K4p7typCn4ep6-OF6vOvXZPj7WzAsk0EHf0Ya9bWEymFVKVNbpX_lPFKBbpIhdJJTzSppQaUZGTOyizqiIUt6OkUHKSSSXeKbgpzovAB8jkWYIKEmKIr1Yk3F8/s0/IMG_2137.jpg" /></a></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Much later on both sides of the Atlantic dame schools offered needlework as an important part of their training along with music and painting. Geography was learned by stitching maps; in my collection, there is one stitched by Ann Pearson in 1782; sadly, under glass, it is difficult to share it with you</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Another genre is samplers like the Mary Dowell Sampler. She was a 19 century Vicar’s wife living in Norfolk who invited all her house guests to stitch a small motif between the years 1830 and 1870 and joined them all together to form a record of the changing fashions, topics of interest and useful repeating patterns - a fascinating record that has been on display on both sides of the Atlantic.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 13.999999999999998pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Finally, I’ve already mentioned using Google, Wikipedia and the like to follow up on various themes I have mentioned; as a young child I vividly remember the Encyclopaedias Britannia and spending many hours following up a trail on a particular subject; now with the same passion and enthusiasm, I love following subjects, people and events that add greatly to my knowledge and understanding of a situation.</span></p><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-27898705487211967622021-03-19T06:24:00.004-07:002021-03-19T06:24:42.532-07:00 March Blog<p><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px;"><br />While the days are getting longer, evenings lighter and the Government giving us a list of possible dates for easing our isolation and mixing with friends and relations I fear we still have some way to go. </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px;"> </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px;">A friend said that we shall have to ‘relearn normal’ I wonder how long that will take?</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px;"> </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px;">Not just a single visit to the hairdresser though I am sure that will help a great deal!</span></p>
<p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0Q7H-ezo2wUES6WcorSaErBpDZviw-YWpdsGp5v5ekMu4pU4rCiC7bnGPPM7g4iVzGpFr86GHbe44oseAgC3-FE3dZq52t5IXPPvgODvRYr8S_lmXFfINyH2grkLmlGd9hCZk8jMj0fX/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1433" data-original-width="2048" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0Q7H-ezo2wUES6WcorSaErBpDZviw-YWpdsGp5v5ekMu4pU4rCiC7bnGPPM7g4iVzGpFr86GHbe44oseAgC3-FE3dZq52t5IXPPvgODvRYr8S_lmXFfINyH2grkLmlGd9hCZk8jMj0fX/w200-h140/mill2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Every order, every email and every telephone call, your interest and kind words encourage me to suggest and design needlepoint projects that I hope will appeal to you in this difficult time. The February zoom joined by many of you ‘making up and finishing needlepoint’ demonstrated just what a wonderful range of beautiful (and useful) items could be made.<p></p>
<p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px;">In my last Blog we talked about colour and how, we all have shown a strong preference for happy, cheerful shades and on the other hands' designs that can be purchased without threads so as to use one’s own left-over stash. </p>
<p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggcdvAosYRj4F2d9MGKg6HWOHLRzQ5yVskFgK-cbvM9_nODKChoxaNuw21NlaApB4M2376XUhQOleGg2Db1FfO-U2CirXB0WrQBheivGioWooB0fjYDSZFF4yUPH2fb56ZqiBpN3BoORGC/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1569" data-original-width="1715" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggcdvAosYRj4F2d9MGKg6HWOHLRzQ5yVskFgK-cbvM9_nODKChoxaNuw21NlaApB4M2376XUhQOleGg2Db1FfO-U2CirXB0WrQBheivGioWooB0fjYDSZFF4yUPH2fb56ZqiBpN3BoORGC/w200-h183/edencushion+copy.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>One of the saddest thoughts I shall be taking forward is the many, many events to have taken place on a much-reduced scale or postponed and postponed yet again. Personally, my husband has had two new great-grandchildren, a grandson graduating from university; my eldest son had a ‘big’ birthday at the end of February and while we had a family Zoom it’s nothing like being together; I have had a granddaughter married and recently moving house, a granddaughter progressing from school to college (without the usual prom and farewells) besides other events important to close friends when the numbers had to be seriously reduced. So the idea of stitching a late present occurred to me.<p></p>
<p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px;">I should like to share some of the ideas I’ve had but I should love to hear of yours too. One important factor to remember is never to start a project without knowing someone good to make it up; recently a student told me of the best advice she ever received ‘ always discuss a new design with a trusted maker up before taking even the first stitch in the canvas’</p>
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<p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5NpB1tLtH5a1epk7_PsPMcBws6TpW47io3jPX4WD-qspEmWvsji4XKDNHbx52p32p6pC3TisDoMYkdut0kPKULwYeiDFqzsQwlu6VOykqAm9w-NbzW8l54fnjiytlyRuEGHbsN1Z5Q2H/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1530" data-original-width="2048" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5NpB1tLtH5a1epk7_PsPMcBws6TpW47io3jPX4WD-qspEmWvsji4XKDNHbx52p32p6pC3TisDoMYkdut0kPKULwYeiDFqzsQwlu6VOykqAm9w-NbzW8l54fnjiytlyRuEGHbsN1Z5Q2H/w172-h128/emily.JPG" width="172" /></a></div>The great-grandchildren, Joel and Esme were born in the summer and while we are still unable to see either of them a small cushion would be lovely; we have designs with their initial, a colourful border, and two Teddy Bears, a ‘boy’ blues and a ‘girl’ pinks with space for the baby’s name. Both designs are on 14 mesh canvas and worked mainly in wool – good for cuddles! <i>Teddy Bear for Girl, also available in blues for a boy; Emily and Eden</i><p></p>
<p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px; min-height: 17px;"><i></i><br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivKgVxy-bo2UMSVhGB1UGvnibDJRV5jNB-YjOfIEr9z7nWVgoj6GUCk6Nnntz2fyvpPGAn3WN0RUPbwxjxYZgniJ067hyviD5yHVwy-U4ORDVJUo1EG2mxQhWQ9tV4v5yfCzNR1aPVihKr/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1448" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivKgVxy-bo2UMSVhGB1UGvnibDJRV5jNB-YjOfIEr9z7nWVgoj6GUCk6Nnntz2fyvpPGAn3WN0RUPbwxjxYZgniJ067hyviD5yHVwy-U4ORDVJUo1EG2mxQhWQ9tV4v5yfCzNR1aPVihKr/w142-h200/love.jpg" width="142" /></a></div><p></p>
<p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px;">The graduating son read music and has now moved to a flat to attend the Royal College of Music for further studies; an I-Pad cover or a small cushion leap to mind should I have time.</p>
<p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px;">My son loves sailing and already they have a panel with nautical flags spelling out their name, a good idea if not already done, will have to think of something else. <i>A tray with their boat might be possible like the Mill we used to have.</i></p>
<p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px;">I had already started a pair of wedding kneelers for Victoria, my granddaughter and her husband so, finished they were used at their very small ceremony last September (they are now cushions) however a little present for their new home would, I hope, be appreciated. <br />I am toying with the idea of a ‘new home’ sampler. I have the address and a photo of the exterior (haven’t been allowed inside yet) so, with a V&J monogram and a terraced row of houses as a border, I hope it will work and give them pleasure. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9qbChoVrnJg_aoNmfqmmo2XsAgl6ceamMUr9LLwIdldBtFVkq1hrZ3la2rEA0peMEP4pYotMACj4aiF8weIYX3I5b78kds7aJytt7sz-dOfPE0hUIeBOBV3SiJE3j36UEYtHoHri_9Jx/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2046" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9qbChoVrnJg_aoNmfqmmo2XsAgl6ceamMUr9LLwIdldBtFVkq1hrZ3la2rEA0peMEP4pYotMACj4aiF8weIYX3I5b78kds7aJytt7sz-dOfPE0hUIeBOBV3SiJE3j36UEYtHoHri_9Jx/w149-h149/scallops+1.jpg" width="149" /></a></div><p></p>
<p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px;">Gina leaving school with no traditional celebrations still lives at home so a pretty cushion – there is a n<br />ew one with a thread ‘Apple blossom’ – I see Gina a pink and green girl so after checking her bedroom’s scheme that would be a good choice or a tote bag to carry her college belongings might be more useful.<i>Scallops, new design available in 3 colourways.</i></p>
<p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px;">Another friend worked a tote bag for a granddaughter, however, the problem is the other granddaughters want one too. Alternately ‘<i>Love ‘– a kit might fit the bill for any event</i></p>
<p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px;">Do these examples give you ideas? Events that would normally be celebrated, new babies visited and admired, wedding ceremonies with close friends all around; transfer from school to college with all the popular prom parties and special dresses or moving to a new home with friends helping, visiting and admiring; doing all these things are so much more special if friends and relations can help and be involved. </p>
<p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px;">I should love to hear from you and do remember that at the end of this horrible period I hope to have an exhibition of needlepoint done during the period so do please send me photos or descriptions of your work so it can be included.</p>Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-72636844920664033952021-02-04T03:50:00.004-08:002021-02-04T03:50:57.861-08:00Hello Colour<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />Dear Everyone</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJoWtnfrLgn-RL0Z2qdJm3EUJgch7NDNYVj12PrHmDOv1q42oF42lOmKinxzEBFY9bvVpklOqOcQDF3jGVvzVGkvXVYnQK4AuTFOUfT9duhRXLube8x1yzE3acK5pMeFHIscWh-YnfiWq/s640/IMG_1986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJoWtnfrLgn-RL0Z2qdJm3EUJgch7NDNYVj12PrHmDOv1q42oF42lOmKinxzEBFY9bvVpklOqOcQDF3jGVvzVGkvXVYnQK4AuTFOUfT9duhRXLube8x1yzE3acK5pMeFHIscWh-YnfiWq/w200-h150/IMG_1986.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>I've come to the conclusion that only bright, joyful colours can lift me from the winter gloom; as a result, I have designed a new canvas 'Custom Initial' in two vibrant schemes, Persian Fiesta and Oranges & Lemons both on 14 mesh canvas, crewel wools with a highlight of over-dyed cotton, I hope just seeing them will lift your spirits as mine were while stitching them.</div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There is a special introductory offer till the end of January of £59.00 plus free P&P within the UK; after that, it will be £67.00. The best stretcher bar frame (if you don't have a suitable one) is the 14 inch one at £7.00 which if you let me know I shall be happy to include.</div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">'Scallops' is, at last ready to order for you the more experienced stitcher; the delay enabled me to add a third colourway, so 'Wedgewood Blue', 'Sage Green & Coral' and now 'Apple blossom Pink': again the introductory price, till the end of January is £49.00, normally £ 52.50. </div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A 10-inch frame if needed is £5.50</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioV7wV546MsDbNxuXdOS8FTFTvQMf1qbaqjdJ77119yCikHUezpaNSfoCQpWPV1qvKv_os7M3AFTXtTWfzs4-A7jc2Nc2evpAGxsr7v_rYiS5Xr4aowGeO1Mjeo4SnPE1i07M_PKXB8rir/s3165/Scalloops+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="994" data-original-width="3165" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioV7wV546MsDbNxuXdOS8FTFTvQMf1qbaqjdJ77119yCikHUezpaNSfoCQpWPV1qvKv_os7M3AFTXtTWfzs4-A7jc2Nc2evpAGxsr7v_rYiS5Xr4aowGeO1Mjeo4SnPE1i07M_PKXB8rir/w640-h200/Scalloops+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Needlepoint Forum that we ran before Christmas was very popular and I plan to run at least two more soon. I have extended my Zoom membership but it is free to watch and if you haven't tried it till now, very simple to access; do let me know if you are interested so I can send you further details</div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do hope you and all your family are well, please keep safe and in touch</div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All best wishes.</div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">anna.pearson365@gmail.com </div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">https://www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com</div><div style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></div>Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-11010092368653369442020-12-17T04:32:00.002-08:002020-12-17T04:32:14.540-08:00December Blog<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSL1jttoyjrobSoHAJxXBzzDzYbGdzO1rrnyCBrjksKTZfa1XIMx5KiopfvJWkmxkSXS8uWflDmCqdtLMXRQm3jO6UT6Zxl8oLVKerxlpePbVqrormf0udd9K3UXcAcPQaRDFnKbxLsI6h/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSL1jttoyjrobSoHAJxXBzzDzYbGdzO1rrnyCBrjksKTZfa1XIMx5KiopfvJWkmxkSXS8uWflDmCqdtLMXRQm3jO6UT6Zxl8oLVKerxlpePbVqrormf0udd9K3UXcAcPQaRDFnKbxLsI6h/w113-h200/88ebd197-9c49-4a6d-b0ae-b1cfa3ce14cd.JPG" width="113" /></a></div><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Our lives have changed dramatically and indeed continue to change almost daily. I have just read the November Blog I posted - while we had come to accept that the pandemic was going to last far longer than originally thought we didn't dream that second lockdown would be imposed and then back into areas of increased vigilance.</span><p></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">As with all things, there have been some really interesting and worthwhile outcomes; in the summer it was our little garden, being able to meet up with friends in the outdoors and even hold some small classes. Now in the Winter the rules are strict, meeting in homes or even private gardens are not allowed but we are all getting used to the new forms of communication and the telephone for friends who aren't confident with Zoom, FaceTime and the like.</div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJSkgrwpYFCswoyFqdH32BxvGv6SMpO7ODytDIZWQ9Kea1DR673X1LN-WCKZV5xNJdhyVi2sMzfe81VKqrdTPW-qvwxYI9coA8zy8gNSw_FD5X6XlZK1sG491lfFT53foVorO6UE-6JG-/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJSkgrwpYFCswoyFqdH32BxvGv6SMpO7ODytDIZWQ9Kea1DR673X1LN-WCKZV5xNJdhyVi2sMzfe81VKqrdTPW-qvwxYI9coA8zy8gNSw_FD5X6XlZK1sG491lfFT53foVorO6UE-6JG-/w150-h200/IMG_1933.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>In the last Blog, I mentioned the first of the Needlepoint Forum planned; each one had a general catch up followed by a particular theme - they were 'Christmas', 'Borders & Backgrounds' and last week 'Lettering' </div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The Christmas event was a great opportunity for people to share their own designs and what a lovely selection we were able to show from Tree ornaments and Stockings to stunning Tree Skirts; by some detail as to the story behind the piece was given. <br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Borders have always fascinated me, students have chosen designs because of its border; again a wide selection was shown, simple to ultra-wide, how using two borders, one directly around the design and a second further out enables two different stitches to be worked and how to use mounts when not enough space for a stitched border! <br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQW-D_a6o7jqQZI2E18Ph4hspMpY29yrbMiR_pVXHH0AxQvZh7nxX5KK1vb2fj5jfC6S-foWqwYi7P8EJASVcUYGX3aPFWXq0dzoKjEsrizz1McRmSKSpdujyvbj4Sq-BGg5SKFaijoJiw/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQW-D_a6o7jqQZI2E18Ph4hspMpY29yrbMiR_pVXHH0AxQvZh7nxX5KK1vb2fj5jfC6S-foWqwYi7P8EJASVcUYGX3aPFWXq0dzoKjEsrizz1McRmSKSpdujyvbj4Sq-BGg5SKFaijoJiw/w150-h200/IMG_1936.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>Personally, I consider presents, however small with an initial on to be so special; so, during the Lettering session we looked at spec cases and kindle covers, wedding kneelers, nautical flags for sailing friends, samplers and much more. I have just done a collection of Custom Initials in vibrant colours, 'Mexican Fiesta' and 'Oranges & Lemons'. <i> </i>There will be a custom chart of your initial, crewel wools and a highlight of overdyed cottons on a 14 mesh canvas with instructions and charts. Should you be interested in my other designs good for personalising - and often suitable for using your own threads, do let me know.</div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">For now, have a wonderful holiday period, hopefully, spend some time with family and enjoy your stitching, keep well, keep safe. </div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">After Christmas we shall have to see how plans go and what we are allowed to do; let's keep in touch.<br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com</div>Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-80765040628477971212020-10-30T06:22:00.005-07:002020-10-30T06:23:17.773-07:00November Blog<p><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Since writing my last blog in July many things have changed. I think we all hoped that the contagion rates would continue to fall and hopefully, September or early October would begin to show some normality in our lives</span><span style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">.</span></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(29, 34, 40); color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><div>Sadly that was not to be, in fact, it is unlikely to be normal by Christmas or even further away; other countries are <br />similarly affected and the prospect of a lockdown in a British winter is not good!</div><div><br /></div><div>However, for us who enjoy stitching or indeed any craft making beautiful things, many aspects are positive, we are very lucky. My plan to keep a record of stitching during lockdown is progressing; the exhibition to share these pieces will have to be postponed but it is not forgotten - so please continue to send me details and photos of anything you are doing. I love to hear from you and will add your information to my records.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikc8vqD-l-ve_NUXbWgYPoiiT0MSulOcETqn370FBKwz9N_mY6aWvN4IC_5DGks6D3hBsSimSuH9Q9b1n4WfKD52ZmFzsqnXty_p20toTozg_SQ3AgMEtbAcgY1k9w-_VAMIauY5Y5Zcqh/s1817/SpringFlowersCushion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1363" data-original-width="1817" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikc8vqD-l-ve_NUXbWgYPoiiT0MSulOcETqn370FBKwz9N_mY6aWvN4IC_5DGks6D3hBsSimSuH9Q9b1n4WfKD52ZmFzsqnXty_p20toTozg_SQ3AgMEtbAcgY1k9w-_VAMIauY5Y5Zcqh/w200-h150/SpringFlowersCushion.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>So far the projects you are stitching range from one American friend finishing more than ten pieces plus two fresh cushions for new grandchildren. Another has finished 'Spring Flowers' that she started in my class in Washington more than 25 years ago. Since the original so many exciting new threads are available, she replaced some of those in the original kit with the new silks and overdyed flosses making it even prettier. Others have made a start at Christmas Stockings, both regular size and small to hang on the Tree; one student makes an additional mini stocking for each member of her family each year; she has already made a good start on this year's list</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>In my last blog, I described the enthusiasm for bright colours and small projects, this has continued, but in addition, a number of you have had beautiful painted canvases; one butterfly panel has been completed to be followed by a second companion piece, different butterflies but a similar size.</div><div><br /></div><div>I remember some years ago we moved out to remodel our apartment and with 6 months in a comfortable rented <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYl5gkZiCb4qWIEDOMGpoRc4bqS04WhiSrqeyDJ7K2g6OGkDfl94C9jQyEa8-dRk53ITgLwlmktUgGWjdufnbFzo2EjxGlxy6LDcxoirnE8h1SbGfo7PcB72FNMZ9meBaOO3k7pisuR_Gr/s2048/butterfly1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1671" data-original-width="2048" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYl5gkZiCb4qWIEDOMGpoRc4bqS04WhiSrqeyDJ7K2g6OGkDfl94C9jQyEa8-dRk53ITgLwlmktUgGWjdufnbFzo2EjxGlxy6LDcxoirnE8h1SbGfo7PcB72FNMZ9meBaOO3k7pisuR_Gr/w200-h163/butterfly1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />home, I worked a large panel inspired by a David Hockney painting 'Mulholland Drive, the road to the Studio' I had fallen in love with this painting at his London exhibition and did it entirely for my own pleasure and personal display at home. My panel measures 22 x 48 inches and was worked in a mix of crewel wools, silks and overdyed floss. So far none of you has told me of working on such a large project, please tell me of anything similar that is underway.</div><div><br /></div><div>However, my recent enquiries have revealed that many of the custom-making up services are either inundated with work or, indeed have had to refuse any new commissions at least for now. No doubt the run-up to Christmas will be even busier.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJbzOKUDCNXJ-RfmwcrVoIR1EfehqxQfStf6YJUdZALctqtSKeDNivGo8olXsMO37XuGdLdmpNtRCjLL9dVNw9Y94FmfZ0oxNDZfd97U2l6CVbrJRbKpzusjgHYkFnft0RpCxkCZgpUhFr/s2048/christmas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJbzOKUDCNXJ-RfmwcrVoIR1EfehqxQfStf6YJUdZALctqtSKeDNivGo8olXsMO37XuGdLdmpNtRCjLL9dVNw9Y94FmfZ0oxNDZfd97U2l6CVbrJRbKpzusjgHYkFnft0RpCxkCZgpUhFr/w200-h150/christmas.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br /></div><div>One of the great things about needlepoint is getting together in small groups, having a 'show and tell' which of course is not easy at present. However, during the warmer weather, I have held small classes in the garden and plan, when allowed, to have classes (max 4 people) here this Autumn. At present, I am recording names of you who might be interested rules and regulations allowing. Do register your name with us. Am looking for an efficient patio heater which should help!</div><div><br /></div><div>We did go to Italy in September and were just so pleased to have gone. A few decided not to come, mainly concerned about the travel, but those who came took three different carriers - depending on where they were travelling from - and all our possible fears were set aside and, of course, when we were at Pirapora (13th visit at least) they took every possible care for everyone's safety The sun, good food and company did us all tremendous good.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg96EyuTcsa1_nWQqzrpbct1JGPOp2jLZhWmVMgDbm-cpgKswGWahmQx-paPVz4ephcoPNLzGsd5ZMFETUVKnKIVp40CoY9M8t3H0uPFUkRdDzgFFsYAq_p0KxJ8eJm13eP4TV95zJf8GVL/s640/large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg96EyuTcsa1_nWQqzrpbct1JGPOp2jLZhWmVMgDbm-cpgKswGWahmQx-paPVz4ephcoPNLzGsd5ZMFETUVKnKIVp40CoY9M8t3H0uPFUkRdDzgFFsYAq_p0KxJ8eJm13eP4TV95zJf8GVL/s320/large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Back in August, we had a local kerb-side exhibition which was fun. Held on a sunny Sunday afternoon, local craftspeople, painters, photographers, embroiderers made their own display on garden railings that could be viewed from the street. A map was available to show who and what they were showing. I made a display on my front steps that could be viewed from the gateway and made some lovely new friends. I hope they might do it again.</div><div><br /></div><div>With the infection numbers increasing dramatically in many countries as well as in parts of the UK I have introduced a regular Needlepoint Forum, once a fortnight on Zoom. When choosing a name for these informal get-togethers I liked the idea of a forum; on looking it up in my dictionary - 'a marketplace in Rome, an open-air meeting place to discuss topics of interest to the public' I thought it even more appropriate!</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqc8dBnEW4MBP2Um1qOidq0zjRGiJifesbuBJ0XBKCsPxBzyQnPQPxMk-UZqoNHLC5I9Tz5dwnI7XiqNzF2ODyA1mt0ue8ig1G29n69BCLtPC23O4iYo8lydlbQlwJ-p-ItEI_nvyREx1a/s640/IMG_0572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="478" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqc8dBnEW4MBP2Um1qOidq0zjRGiJifesbuBJ0XBKCsPxBzyQnPQPxMk-UZqoNHLC5I9Tz5dwnI7XiqNzF2ODyA1mt0ue8ig1G29n69BCLtPC23O4iYo8lydlbQlwJ-p-ItEI_nvyREx1a/w149-h200/IMG_0572.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>We had our first one this week, at 2pm BST to enable friends from the US and Europe to join us. Seeing friends, <br />having not seen some for more than 10 years was so exciting and hearing their stitching news. Better still, our clocks in the UK have fallen back this weekend so we are only 4 hours different from the East Coast.</div><div><br /></div><div>Each session will have a theme, discussed and agreed at the previous one. On the 4th November, there will be a Christmas theme, everyone will be encouraged to show and tell the group ideas for presents and decorations. Already people have told me of exciting ideas they are prepared to share including some amazing Christmas Tree Skirts.</div><div>Please tell me if you would like to share some of your ideas so time can be allowed.<br /></div><div>4</div><div>This Forum is open to everyone, there is a small charge for the 3 remaining sessions before Christmas of £15.00 or $20.00 and can be paid by a simple bank transfer. Send you details, email, name and location to <a href="mailto:anna.pearson365@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #196ad4;" target="_blank" ymailto="mailto:anna.pearson365@gmail.com">anna.pearson365@gmail.com</a> and we will send you all the necessary information. We plan to record each session so should you miss one we can send it to you included in this fee. </div></div>Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-27456652641171310772020-07-01T02:50:00.001-07:002020-07-01T02:50:40.202-07:00Stitching in Lockdown<div style="text-align: right;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>"Just waiting for the big day to be confirmed"</i></span></td></tr>
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How life has changed for us all! We were lucky enough to spend the first weeks in the <span id="yiv2570426839m_8278157524258047795m_2233058833271904020m_-716688378220572079m_8817703959055983435m_-2240046319595635297m_8522522670206493501m_5884167627917279720m_8222983849332498286m_5655075181094956604m_-924704252437361492m_-2500075780558165520m_5413952895778797433:zb.1">BVIs</span> and only <span id="yiv2570426839m_8278157524258047795m_2233058833271904020m_-716688378220572079m_8817703959055983435m_-2240046319595635297m_8522522670206493501m_5884167627917279720m_8222983849332498286m_5655075181094956604m_-924704252437361492m_-2500075780558165520m_5413952895778797433:zb.4">kneelers</span> for my granddaughter's wedding in May (sadly now postponed till September if then) but while stitching I find great opportunities for daydreaming about future projects; with the sun, boats and relaxed lifestyle I found an illustration of a friendly gecko that would make a perfect panel for one of my clutch purses - furthermore I dreamt of making my own shoulder strap for the purse with 'shell' beads from the Internet; a project now on hold but not forgotten!<br />
Returned to the UK in early March just at the beginning of the virus hitting the UK. For the duration of our trip I had been working consensually on a pair of wedding kneelers.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>A multi stitch panel</i></span></td></tr>
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Instead, talking with my students on my return,all in isolation but thankfully able to talk on thetelephone, Zoom and email, what they reallyneeded was designs that required little counting, were quite small and ideally using up their own stash of threads.</div>
As a result we now have two new designs, a Florentine panel that, along with the YouTube tutorial is fun and a Multi stitch panel that really excites me in addition to other kits available to use your own threads that are shown on my <a href="http://anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/" target="_blank">website</a>. Both can be supplied with 14 or 18 mesh canvas.<br />
Designing and planning continues, the small Multi Stitch panels already mentioned are addictive; crewel wools work well on 14 mesh canvas and the floss, stranded and overdyes great on 18 mesh. Now there is such a lovely range of coloured 18 mesh canvas choosing colour schemes to enhance the canvas colour adds another dimension. One doesn't even have to do a complicated stitch to achieve a stunning result.<br />
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The Florentine design, again available with instructions and canvas can be a traditional colour scheme or worked in a dazzling scheme to cheer you up working it and a show stopper when finished. My YouTube tutorial already mentioned is free. can be watched more than once and definitely gives you many tips for any and all Florentine, do watch it! <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUvphha_FKY&list=PL1L-fpkBs_cmbQpcfSLWYn6t5r93cxiCU" target="_blank">Link here</a>!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHpHEFg7mrqju2fW58rW5KEyyjJhKoN8m-obRy0_L-q6DiU_1OdSh_6BWU7IUSKY892BQcGd65j5UY4zbBiZSYS0vWieXxPcBKpZjyOOCr4FGEjRbq_owcHFGewMugmhSqjrRXfh8jjZhyphenhyphen/s1600/florentine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="496" data-original-width="956" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHpHEFg7mrqju2fW58rW5KEyyjJhKoN8m-obRy0_L-q6DiU_1OdSh_6BWU7IUSKY892BQcGd65j5UY4zbBiZSYS0vWieXxPcBKpZjyOOCr4FGEjRbq_owcHFGewMugmhSqjrRXfh8jjZhyphenhyphen/s320/florentine.jpg" width="320" /></a>These, along with a number of my designs, details given in the 'Kits without threads' in my web site <a href="http://anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #196ad4;" target="_blank">anna-needlepoint-pearson.com</a> are well worth considering for these difficult times.<br />
In the past. beautiful work has been stitched by communities, often made to celebrate an important event; I believe that the National Needlework Archive has a record of all community textile pieces to celebrate the Millennium (2000) Personally I remember with affection a needlepoint panel in the village doctors' surgery near Norwich where some of the most interesting buildings were stitched by members of the parish. Of course these were probably stitched in group meetings when materials, stitches to be used and progress could be discussed. Sadly not possible now. This is why the two new designs are suitable, easy to show attached to an email, on facebook and other ways. One idea I've had while stitching my own Multi-Stitch panels is for a number of panels - stitched by different people - to be mounted as a large wall hanging for the village hall, doctor's surgery or similar as a memory of the Coronavirus. If I had a suitable wall space myself I should be tempted to work a number in shades of blue/tuquoise/ and mount them together - my husband is quite lucky as I can't think of a suitable wall!<br />
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Staying in touch with fellow stitchers is tremendously important; there are those who still hope to come to Italy with me in September, those who live alone and those who have a problem with their stitching and need another opinion or a kick start. Fortunately I have many conversations and some are able to visit for a short period in our garden. It is a peoples affair, it is and has always been and I love it that way; when this is all over I do hope to have a small exhibition of things you have all done in lockdown - it will be exciting to see. Meanwhile remember I am only an email or telephone call away.<br />
Doing needlepoint or in fact any handmade item could be termed a luxury that I believe is essential in this time of uncertainty; reading, Netflix, learning a language (which I am also doing) are all great and to be highly recommended but let's face it, creating something beautiful, useful and personal is just so special. Needlepoint designs worked by you and particularly those worked in your own colours are unique. A comment I recently saw was 'They (you stitchers) make the useful beautiful and the beautiful useful' A perfect way of summing up your talents.<br />
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Furthermore your pieces will last and give pleasure to many others too. I often see pieces of work done by students' grandmothers or indeed by grandfathers possibly converlessing after injuries received in WWI (do wish they had at least initialed them) and a hydrangea rug I did forty or more years ago still gives me pleasure every morning I see it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8wXpEAnUpOwX8844ssag6ujBIlN6xsbMcTZ0u2BkGuyzwOIxunqHxCcqWH5_HmgAF43w3NUzdwgaaW8Cu-dK8QutMVWdhyzAD3_lKkYr-f-vleZhGWkNhSp0Mkz-_RKj2ODUKL5tncbci/s1600/Screenshot+2020-06-30+at+13.00.57.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="652" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8wXpEAnUpOwX8844ssag6ujBIlN6xsbMcTZ0u2BkGuyzwOIxunqHxCcqWH5_HmgAF43w3NUzdwgaaW8Cu-dK8QutMVWdhyzAD3_lKkYr-f-vleZhGWkNhSp0Mkz-_RKj2ODUKL5tncbci/s200/Screenshot+2020-06-30+at+13.00.57.png" width="195" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Inspired by Cross stitch embroidery on clothing, <br />particularly Marys Queen of Scots </span></i></td></tr>
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Another aspect of the enforced self isolation that should be enjoyed is time. Recently I have been reading of slow looking, taking time to look at things around, The Tate Gallery has an interesting programme looking in particular at paintings, Richard Dadd's The Fairy Feller's Master Stroke (1855-64) is a painting that has intrigued me for many years is one of their examples with fine detail that has in fact been a 16 year study for one lady; Ford Maddox Brown's paintings also encourage close study, 'Work' his most famous. Brighton Beach another of his large canvases is one I love making up stories about members of the crowded beach, their Victorian clothes and how they spent their 'day by the sea' Many, many other artists' work deserve attention to their detail, try 'slow looking' for yourself.<br />
How, you may ask can this be applied to your needlepoint; very definitely I would answer; my designs are frequently inspired by my travels, seeing mosaic floors in cathedrals, attractive architectural detail, unusual colour schemes; Tudor was inspired by cross stitch embroidery worked on beautiful garments worn in the contemporary portraits; the diaper patterns on my dining chairs by the painting the Ambassadors in the National Portrait Gallery.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Tulip with interesting heart</i></span></td></tr>
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Now with our world confined to the garden looking closely at flowers reveals wonderful detail, far more sophisticated colour combinations that appear on a casual inspection. Even Christmas cards - not necessarily the holly and robin variety - can give ideas for colour schemes if one takes a few moments to look and dream.<br />
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I do hope you have enjoyed this long blog; My stitching has been of great importance to me but also given me time to think, dream and explore new ideas. I hope to return to the monthly blog soon.<br />
<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-20282079986933535882019-12-03T04:04:00.000-08:002019-12-03T04:04:28.961-08:00Christmas Traditions<br />
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Each family has its own traditions linked to the festive
season and even more so the many countries around the World. Australian, New Zealand and South America
are enjoying high summer; in the Northern hemisphere it is winter and often
dark and icy nights.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLA-JOq8tAQVDiHMyWHqDli2RFIrZ49RPncnPQBlKxwRbSejj-0JPriGC3we-XbkHRjL1zAZn0JBehc2SJrCeygofy-M6Ny21IznPVf7wt131DgJepWH44CDyYcWIQ4Ea3Jnr1GzD35Gh4/s1600/IMG-20191203-WA0000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLA-JOq8tAQVDiHMyWHqDli2RFIrZ49RPncnPQBlKxwRbSejj-0JPriGC3we-XbkHRjL1zAZn0JBehc2SJrCeygofy-M6Ny21IznPVf7wt131DgJepWH44CDyYcWIQ4Ea3Jnr1GzD35Gh4/s200/IMG-20191203-WA0000.jpg" width="200" /></a>Some countries celebrate Christmas Eve with a festive dinner
and the opening of presents at midnight; others go to their church at midnight
and keep the presents and the big meal till Christmas Day itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the UK the preferred meal for a big family
is Turkey with roast potatoes and sprouts followed by Christmas pudding with
brandy butter or cream. Other countries
enjoy oysters (France) or Carp (Germany).<o:p></o:p></div>
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Houses are decorated, children make garlands, a Tree is
popul<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having
been on the East Coast immediately before Christmas it is fun to take a ride
around the areas to see the amazing displays erected.<o:p></o:p></div>
ar in many countries and in particular Americans decorate their garden and
outside of their house lavishly.<br />
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Needlepoint items are loved and lovingly kept from year to
year; children have their own stocking (frequently stitched by Grandma) to put
out for Santa to fill; tree skirts are a truly mega undertaking, a circular
design that sits beneath the branches of the tree to pile up the gaily wrapped
presents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am sure there are many more
projects that are family heirlooms and that come out with excitement every
year.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Ys3sB-OuRVp9IQ5Nl5Uflhtl8a1iSpdw1CdVSk-7fXYwiGrm_gvwoJC8ich-SWNw09Jm7s2jr2IXhxQT3m7_hM4iTnZ75MtbAPIYZqmm8YEcfC8XCd8CwDx1r_5RPg8rPVxYPzdiYq0J/s1600/00100lrPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20191203115617671_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Ys3sB-OuRVp9IQ5Nl5Uflhtl8a1iSpdw1CdVSk-7fXYwiGrm_gvwoJC8ich-SWNw09Jm7s2jr2IXhxQT3m7_hM4iTnZ75MtbAPIYZqmm8YEcfC8XCd8CwDx1r_5RPg8rPVxYPzdiYq0J/s200/00100lrPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20191203115617671_COVER.jpg" width="200" /></a>Personally I love getting the boxes of tree ornaments out,
sorting out the lights and assembling garlands for the fireplace and door/arch
ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Over the years I have tried to
find an ornament in a place visited during the year; I remember an early visit
to the States and succumbing to their pop-up Christmas shops – not known here
in England till later – I also have memories of Woodlawn Plantation and the
decorations throughout the house, installed by Christopher Radko with his glass
tree ornaments.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN1uUXrCcInmzeimAOR36KRvTiPDLEPsZ7_xh6WbQZQGoLa_n1O_iWU6wJU1er4l5JqjbzU9YTBCckZ9Pe9SHkPjZTUNmlBXFQz6Aws9Rbf5o66snNXvJE0ucQG9uWouYH6JvWPK9TIDLJ/s1600/IMG-20191203-WA0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN1uUXrCcInmzeimAOR36KRvTiPDLEPsZ7_xh6WbQZQGoLa_n1O_iWU6wJU1er4l5JqjbzU9YTBCckZ9Pe9SHkPjZTUNmlBXFQz6Aws9Rbf5o66snNXvJE0ucQG9uWouYH6JvWPK9TIDLJ/s200/IMG-20191203-WA0007.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXD5bbJb6YhexzaCK9YKqZI0Tyq7p86cdVlIDWnwzR5k0bgRSgC4Zn9v0xh3rb-k9pDLuRmxxUu3NunhrzNADbgreyptVfwAe2UsPZG12vmHer9zrmjyZT3_ZiDvpGlWjpKXsIK9mZH5ZS/s1600/IMG-20191203-WA0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXD5bbJb6YhexzaCK9YKqZI0Tyq7p86cdVlIDWnwzR5k0bgRSgC4Zn9v0xh3rb-k9pDLuRmxxUu3NunhrzNADbgreyptVfwAe2UsPZG12vmHer9zrmjyZT3_ZiDvpGlWjpKXsIK9mZH5ZS/s200/IMG-20191203-WA0009.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh19GLN5rpzodtWzccNmwhVOzutJmADbcFJcj3iIlfF-HxM0H2eHRMEfapXX_w7HrySpvaDjlXgT5xbC89xcpap7qe5MOnlq7D6duxZ8H1dYa8VUPyR2avMJvSBFVgW-KXq5zMD9NSJwhjr/s1600/IMG-20191203-WA0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="612" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh19GLN5rpzodtWzccNmwhVOzutJmADbcFJcj3iIlfF-HxM0H2eHRMEfapXX_w7HrySpvaDjlXgT5xbC89xcpap7qe5MOnlq7D6duxZ8H1dYa8VUPyR2avMJvSBFVgW-KXq5zMD9NSJwhjr/s200/IMG-20191203-WA0008.jpg" width="126" /></a></div>
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So it was with joy I helped my daughter in law last
Christmas decorate their tree.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her family
were originally Danish and then in the late 19C started a company in the Far
East, first in Macao and then in Hong Kong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were collections of tree ornaments from each of the family
branches, each more charming that the last. The only sadness was that there was little information as to when and
where each of the collections had originated from.</div>
Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-35630143941881958442019-11-12T04:29:00.000-08:002019-11-12T04:29:28.270-08:00Making my first YouTube<br />
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YouTube tutorials are wonderful, featuring a mass of things
you had thought of and even lots one didn’t even think existed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The beauty of being actually able to see the
process rather than trying to work out with diagrams from a printed source is
particularly good with a craft such as Needlepoint/Tapestry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkcWwKIp3m8geUqLjBY5evjsJHfLaHMU99acnfjM8gSqbR_zBkEcsOEdBfUnAfXHledPpmPB-RWtk_Yf-rytmn6ghw77HaEXEQw9MWgDZI7f4_Fomtd0aVyh_XZflwtEme0um3clijGIF/s1600/IMG-3421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkcWwKIp3m8geUqLjBY5evjsJHfLaHMU99acnfjM8gSqbR_zBkEcsOEdBfUnAfXHledPpmPB-RWtk_Yf-rytmn6ghw77HaEXEQw9MWgDZI7f4_Fomtd0aVyh_XZflwtEme0um3clijGIF/s200/IMG-3421.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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My daughter in fact learnt to knit from watching a number of
tutorials, they encouraged her to try something for the first time and
something, and I confess, her Mother had not taught her!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Having enjoyed my needlepoint for almost 50 years, first as
a relaxation from full time interior decorator, then as a designer, author and
in particular a teacher, I realised that showing students exactly how to stitch
something was of considerable help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So
much so that more than 30 years ago I started ‘Needlepoint Network’ a group of
trained people who taught my designs on class in their own area.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMBHCoUVAsNKUCmOF8YD55u-HAppN9POWj8MtOEG9vMzjjCBPsp7emiMK7515cG78fUFksjVJI5aW7jhZcaxeF0Apq48Ds7BLtlc2HIiTTvwdgxt3jg2_MVGctQ91iKydKNQG8oIAu7F__/s1600/ImogenandAnna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="853" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMBHCoUVAsNKUCmOF8YD55u-HAppN9POWj8MtOEG9vMzjjCBPsp7emiMK7515cG78fUFksjVJI5aW7jhZcaxeF0Apq48Ds7BLtlc2HIiTTvwdgxt3jg2_MVGctQ91iKydKNQG8oIAu7F__/s320/ImogenandAnna.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Imogen and Anna</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Recently needing more help in the studio, particularly with
communications with existing students I met up with Imogen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It turns out that besides being far better
able to keep students and additional interested people in touch she had
recently done a film editing course and had already been involved with making
one for a group of musicians.</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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My next decision was what particular aspect of needlepoint I
should feature; needlepoint/canvas work has been popular with stitchers and
highly prized by collectors for centuries. There are marvellous examples
stitched by Mary Queen of Scots in the sixteen hundreds, there are amazing
examples of Opus Anglicanum (church embroidery) from the 15 century and while
considerable later the early American settlers worked beautiful pieces.<o:p></o:p></div>
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My final decision to feature Florentine as the first subject,
was arrived at for many reasons;<o:p></o:p></div>
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firstly it has been enjoyed by needle persons (I don’t on
purpose use the term needlewomen as there were many professional men who were
excellent) over the generations;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>it was
around 1660/70 that the fashion for furnishings (bed hangings table covers, and
cushions in Florentine or Flame point designs) supplanted pictures, stump work
and samplers;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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In reasonably simple forms it is a perfect first project; it
is an excellent choice for cushions, upholstery, garments such as waistcoats, purses;
rugs and wall hangings as well as small items for gifts.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Is8GKee-K2MI95m2DlHtatPt_L9BGvVWzauDIIa0lTUFf4Nn9aWlJmL_QfTF7xA6jbA2Xa5gjW0BVwsXfGUeczU0Mx8trwlGFHXlKwqYCDcekZXb6Zc4z5antRHeBNsdraypv7z5SU7E/s1600/00100lPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20191112111441764_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1459" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Is8GKee-K2MI95m2DlHtatPt_L9BGvVWzauDIIa0lTUFf4Nn9aWlJmL_QfTF7xA6jbA2Xa5gjW0BVwsXfGUeczU0Mx8trwlGFHXlKwqYCDcekZXb6Zc4z5antRHeBNsdraypv7z5SU7E/s200/00100lPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20191112111441764_COVER.jpg" width="181" /></a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has a number of
very descriptive names, Bargello, Flame Point and in some Victorian books Rail
Road (due to the comparative speed of execution, however do remember that the
trains mid 19C did have a man walking in front to control the speed)<o:p></o:p></div>
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I also love doing Florentine work and have many examples
which over the series I shall enjoy sharing with the viewers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, to the first Florentine Tutorial which is in 5 parts, we
decided that a pattern with five shades of crewel wool would be an excellent
introduction; in addition to finishing up with an attractive piece many tips
and suggestions for all one’s future work was explained and demonstrated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These sessions cover the selection of
materials and colour, the canvas and the advantages of working on a frame,
setting up the pattern to obtain an attractive balance and good wear, in the
last session how making up, surround with fabric and trimmed with a hand-made
cord does the stitching justice.<o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmcjSjMjTInf0K3H3r1vUFf9maME9LqxK2nJcHLZX3mqx_5Vyz0NZ4rZ9w2FdMZdjMNkUcFBvajYsZE_cN-DEoojMDVpntIBS1UwgJI77wxKL4jgO5aaDSq8N7naFkJyBQqzxfKU1cUuvN/s1600/00000IMG_00000_BURST20191112111537390_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1143" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmcjSjMjTInf0K3H3r1vUFf9maME9LqxK2nJcHLZX3mqx_5Vyz0NZ4rZ9w2FdMZdjMNkUcFBvajYsZE_cN-DEoojMDVpntIBS1UwgJI77wxKL4jgO5aaDSq8N7naFkJyBQqzxfKU1cUuvN/s200/00000IMG_00000_BURST20191112111537390_COVER.jpg" width="142" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Different Colour Schemes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We were able to demonstrate just how versatile even just
five shades of wool cold be;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>for the
main core piece a traditional scheme of Flames and Soft Greens was chosen but
also shown were samples of different placements of these shades, different
lengths of stitch, creating both gentle and bolder schemes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Also illustrated are two completely different colour schemes
to give<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a contemporary look to their
<o:p></o:p></div>
piece.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQMNqJgKe97suXlMQSyEFCRmX7btVV5eLkDi6IgU_Sa-pNWwLzraRpdq5Ad9S5YLiT1eWOuRIF0PAPHwnrMhMzZbMAXPZka3IIdJLgZxbX4iL5u50HjOcyntUg2azX2mS5UB4PmEkA3rr/s1600/stich+by+stich.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQMNqJgKe97suXlMQSyEFCRmX7btVV5eLkDi6IgU_Sa-pNWwLzraRpdq5Ad9S5YLiT1eWOuRIF0PAPHwnrMhMzZbMAXPZka3IIdJLgZxbX4iL5u50HjOcyntUg2azX2mS5UB4PmEkA3rr/s200/stich+by+stich.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/store/p29/Anna_Pearson%3A_Needlepoint_Stitch_by_Stitch.html" target="_blank">Buy Now</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I do hope you enjoy watching the series, please let us have
your thoughts and any ideas of what you would like to see in future YouTube
tutorials as our thoughts are <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>turning to
future programmes continuing the Florentine theme. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are literally
hundreds of ideas I should like to share, designing one’s very own pattern;
using different threads such as overdyed floss, silks and even metallic; mixing
more than one pattern on a piece – possibly a bold border around a central
repeat pattern or columns of co-ordinated patterns for a long stool or rug or,
as I am planning at the moment, a pair of wedding kneelers for my granddaughter
inspired by a Victorian runner, I shall hope to share the progress with you.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijcIFBWCjvCFuOrWam9qnLEfwd_vxVCgKDFUaYbHXei0e_B5iwLtQELh4LO2QMM_82mpgYncB7wMZ_wEcOIybAFYYKK2FV6xM2nJyvWgyDOac_dNc_pw_EVS8Nc8piCPudJMPjvMvAPyot/s1600/Complete+Needlepoint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijcIFBWCjvCFuOrWam9qnLEfwd_vxVCgKDFUaYbHXei0e_B5iwLtQELh4LO2QMM_82mpgYncB7wMZ_wEcOIybAFYYKK2FV6xM2nJyvWgyDOac_dNc_pw_EVS8Nc8piCPudJMPjvMvAPyot/s200/Complete+Needlepoint.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/store/p30/Anna_Pearson_%3A_The_Complete_Needlepoint_Course.html" target="_blank">Buy Now</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Florentine has always featured prominently in my books,
particularly ‘The Complete Needlepoint Course’ and ‘Needlepoint Stitch by
Stitch’ have whole chapters on this subject. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I have a few pre loved copies to sell, link are under there images.</div>
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Finally there will be a Gallery which will feature your
pieces to share and inspire others; we should love to have photos and short
details, canvas mesh, threads used and final destination – cushion, box top,
rug etc and the permission to use your given name.</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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I hope you enjoy watching the series on YouTube and I’d love
to know in the comments how your own projects turned out. I’d also be very
interested to know what needlepoint projects you’d like to see in future
tutorials.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Click here--> for "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUvphha_FKY&list=PL1L-fpkBs_cmbQpcfSLWYn6t5r93cxiCU" target="_blank">Introduction to Florentine</a>" Episodes.</b></div>
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<br /><br />Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-54879957126330000722019-10-22T03:13:00.000-07:002019-10-22T03:13:56.792-07:00Recent Italian Trip
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwXXJoLTsj9-PnMQ_IOPI3KcCU2Ywv3TOOMEPsOj6XCKIP1RyAvpHhpah7DZB4owLz9KDed9qjKLIsKzWt3r6Etw4YuGTXsCmNPG1IVmqPI1RSgWrYbqAQ92-JY-6A7U96-pgvWKju2uJ8/s1600/italy+2177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Just returned from yet another lovely trip to Calabria in
Southern Italy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was our 12</span><sup><span style="font-size: small;">th</span></sup><span style="font-size: large;">
annual trip, many of the group have been on all occasions as trips like this
are popular; we<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>share an
interest/passion for needlepoint; enjoy the unique opportunity to stitch in
attractive surroundings and as far as possible have an all-in price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of them, besides being enthusiastic
stitchers are great photographers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have been the recipient of many, many beautiful memories of the trip and it
will be difficult job to select those that I include in this blog.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhILpAgHNRZl4tq6sU9vEBNAsvzezL6Jhlp4LUYWNX0q7lu2dzliS-Ui6Xs2hBUda3oFQSnetnMTF4BbdjrmYTihmonZ5K8O9n6MG5wga6gOy0BFmJcsrQ4lxxRRr9vSZIqKnwKLzga-FKT/s1600/italy+2043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhILpAgHNRZl4tq6sU9vEBNAsvzezL6Jhlp4LUYWNX0q7lu2dzliS-Ui6Xs2hBUda3oFQSnetnMTF4BbdjrmYTihmonZ5K8O9n6MG5wga6gOy0BFmJcsrQ4lxxRRr9vSZIqKnwKLzga-FKT/s320/italy+2043.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Calabria is still a relatively unknown area of Italy,
Pirapora the Agro tourism family run place we go is on the West coast looking
out across the beautiful turquoise sea to Stromboli and the island of
Sicily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This year both the weather and
the visibility were perfect, the sunsets over Stromboli – were picture
perfect;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Each year during the winter months when there are no guests
lovely improvements are made to both the accommodation and the community areas;
this time the terrace where we sit and stitch had been tiled and the tables nestled
under sun shades.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-z85zJRVYhfnEBeE2MAlIRZ64-puxI-UpI9oJpPr_8LIzEyCifcfVIKXSloa9ydwtpeBf8vT6H1ngBI0h1ki6pZtAmajfI_Faaxdu3ISRPt9cA1YSwJDxvJ2JRw_Ja5EKXfsVXl1hIkS/s1600/AdventurersItaly2019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1175" data-original-width="1600" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-z85zJRVYhfnEBeE2MAlIRZ64-puxI-UpI9oJpPr_8LIzEyCifcfVIKXSloa9ydwtpeBf8vT6H1ngBI0h1ki6pZtAmajfI_Faaxdu3ISRPt9cA1YSwJDxvJ2JRw_Ja5EKXfsVXl1hIkS/s320/AdventurersItaly2019.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">With many returners it is somewhat of a challenge to think
of stitching that will appeal to the whole group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This year we decided to introduce a small piece
which became known as The Adventure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Everyone chose a coloured 18 mesh canvas 10 inches square; the threads
that went with their colour choice were all identical eg there was a stranded
cotton a Watercolour a Splendid etc all in their colour scheme.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their kits were a secret until the first
morning when they opened them and began to think of design ideas to create and enjoy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thankfully it was a tremendous success as you can see from
both the group photo taken on the last day and details of the individual
pieces.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzi98ediC2HoIan2d0BkCZhlg3E1YzQ_OVGwnXtFcA9rqaBgkB2xRM7yzAUsRi1dvmRFJyTUwVI73nn-Jd4SUmQ4-Iu4DtVBEFGLmGRTms2TKvQx-_Ka5qRc4GkQAJfPzDYrzdZ9X5luxX/s1600/Anne2Italy2019+-+Copy+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzi98ediC2HoIan2d0BkCZhlg3E1YzQ_OVGwnXtFcA9rqaBgkB2xRM7yzAUsRi1dvmRFJyTUwVI73nn-Jd4SUmQ4-Iu4DtVBEFGLmGRTms2TKvQx-_Ka5qRc4GkQAJfPzDYrzdZ9X5luxX/s1600/Anne2Italy2019+-+Copy+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzi98ediC2HoIan2d0BkCZhlg3E1YzQ_OVGwnXtFcA9rqaBgkB2xRM7yzAUsRi1dvmRFJyTUwVI73nn-Jd4SUmQ4-Iu4DtVBEFGLmGRTms2TKvQx-_Ka5qRc4GkQAJfPzDYrzdZ9X5luxX/s1600/Anne2Italy2019+-+Copy+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzi98ediC2HoIan2d0BkCZhlg3E1YzQ_OVGwnXtFcA9rqaBgkB2xRM7yzAUsRi1dvmRFJyTUwVI73nn-Jd4SUmQ4-Iu4DtVBEFGLmGRTms2TKvQx-_Ka5qRc4GkQAJfPzDYrzdZ9X5luxX/s1600/Anne2Italy2019+-+Copy+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1502" data-original-width="1600" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzi98ediC2HoIan2d0BkCZhlg3E1YzQ_OVGwnXtFcA9rqaBgkB2xRM7yzAUsRi1dvmRFJyTUwVI73nn-Jd4SUmQ4-Iu4DtVBEFGLmGRTms2TKvQx-_Ka5qRc4GkQAJfPzDYrzdZ9X5luxX/s200/Anne2Italy2019+-+Copy+-+Copy.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There were Christmas themes, meticulous stitches panels, and
inspiration from a large leaf that floated down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each person was able to develop their piece
with frequent, positive feedback from the group along with an extensive
selection of stitch books and samples.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We all had fun.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEHVRv0XnwVPnvs8IoBUGxFGy_Yq6hlc9yhA15M6UH5UIJ3XdAS5d4W1GoJI-QSmq9fU2eSk61ZiDieNuHkuu5po2-Kugk_oxAP3tpD5yPZ-sxLZ6MzivXA7zJjLJvCsMrw0I9OxF2UVLC/s1600/ValerieItaly2019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEHVRv0XnwVPnvs8IoBUGxFGy_Yq6hlc9yhA15M6UH5UIJ3XdAS5d4W1GoJI-QSmq9fU2eSk61ZiDieNuHkuu5po2-Kugk_oxAP3tpD5yPZ-sxLZ6MzivXA7zJjLJvCsMrw0I9OxF2UVLC/s200/ValerieItaly2019.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I find that stitching is a hungry making activity and a joy
of Pirapora is the food, all the vegetables, fruit and the jams, cheeses are
grown or made on the farm and we get to enjoy them at each of the delicious meals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdriRsL-BrfuyNd30N-0AElDEeyPmZAMM86XW6R9gCkHpQl8mu3cCzqJqV3n2qRFgQXnS2nLICVPoCfzabC3erjnYIfKSxwj7T7KBhyphenhyphenDkUSKyiagdPtQaeX2ytEWLNHapZDzEUOYhYnDuf/s1600/tuscanyfood.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1071" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdriRsL-BrfuyNd30N-0AElDEeyPmZAMM86XW6R9gCkHpQl8mu3cCzqJqV3n2qRFgQXnS2nLICVPoCfzabC3erjnYIfKSxwj7T7KBhyphenhyphenDkUSKyiagdPtQaeX2ytEWLNHapZDzEUOYhYnDuf/s320/tuscanyfood.jpeg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Breakfast is always homemade yoghurt, honey and jams,
freshly baked bread, eggs just collected and great coffee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lunch is usually a salad, tomatoes off the
vine, salamis or pasta, melon and figs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Dinner always starts with a delicious pasta followed by fabulous vegetables
meat and fish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once a week there is a
pizza night; very popular with the children of fellow guests who are encouraged
to help with the preparation and some of the locals who, on that one night,
come in to share the fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The pizza
bases are thin, crisp and delicious and the variety of toppings is equally so –
I think there are at least 12 different, both savoury and sweet<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t mention the wine, also home
brewed, the white is particularly drinkable, beer on pizza night if you prefer
and after dinner Limoncello popular with my stitchers, they are sure it helps
them sleep rather that counting canvas threads.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">At present we are well advanced in planning two similar
trips in 2020.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first in May, dates
to be finalised and later on, in September 8 – 17 when we already have people
signed on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do let me know if you would
like further details.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-6789545196995953082019-08-19T03:53:00.004-07:002019-08-19T03:53:56.293-07:00Working in a Creative Room<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEus6EFW32YBLOq-l0gkBuA60c1t3z7F1W6vXhPiJFrnAJQL1lCyeLCQ1VDcGzRdpcLfb0LskgXiqP0APoKOoYkFV9RU4f3alNybD7qPPv019eT9TD2B7nuBD_b4fFnLDrQc6WmcFGACFi/s1600/IMG_20190819_113224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1219" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEus6EFW32YBLOq-l0gkBuA60c1t3z7F1W6vXhPiJFrnAJQL1lCyeLCQ1VDcGzRdpcLfb0LskgXiqP0APoKOoYkFV9RU4f3alNybD7qPPv019eT9TD2B7nuBD_b4fFnLDrQc6WmcFGACFi/s200/IMG_20190819_113224.jpg" width="151" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painting by Hugh Barnden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">‘It is how
you feel about your home rather than the way it looks’ an interesting comment
read recently – when I got to think about it, it makes a great deal of
sense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is the personal things, the
items you have collected on holidays or trips to the country or treasures
handed down from your family - and of course things like your needlepoint
either made by you or your children or friends given as special gifts.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Certain
colours in rooms give me a thrill, in a previous home we inherited a deep blue
bath (having always said there was only one colour for vanity wear – white) it
was tempting to replace it but I decided to work with it, so pleased I did,
teaming it with Moroccan tiles and this painting.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-wQu_J6xM4NaRmmFjLljgPCVc0luq4TNg7gCGF0o1HaZFITM0u8GkoRRFX8z-UdwKEgGpD8T9kKemgj5BLcbfOVnScoIq1o1vevMM2GeBgstxCwbNJdkddaRoTE3SAMVz9iqplLgzAgfG/s1600/IMG_20190819_113308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-wQu_J6xM4NaRmmFjLljgPCVc0luq4TNg7gCGF0o1HaZFITM0u8GkoRRFX8z-UdwKEgGpD8T9kKemgj5BLcbfOVnScoIq1o1vevMM2GeBgstxCwbNJdkddaRoTE3SAMVz9iqplLgzAgfG/s200/IMG_20190819_113308.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Our present
bedroom is shades of soft blue, the reason for many of my needlepoint designs
being shades of the same colour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Calm,
peaceful but full of stitching memories that give me pleasure every time I go
in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Besides two of my recent designs,
the Cathedral Tiles and Tudor and the third one with a v-shaped flap all bring
back happy events;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cathedral Tiles was
inspired by some wal tiles in the Christ Church Cathedral in Christchurch New
Zealand, the 19 century Cathedral was destroyed by a mega earthquake in recent
years and there is a temporary church built with cardboard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The strap pattern that defines the four
diamond shape areas on the Tudor design was taken from a portrait of a lady
wearing a white blouse with embroidered black work motifs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The triangle shaped design (shown central on
the bed) was inspired with both the striped fabric found in a street market and
the jewel found in the souk in Marrakesh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>The white crocheted bedspread again brings memories of a lovely holiday
in St Tropea and finding this in a small antique shop in the hills behind the
town.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28tAr3XiT06BPL2vzt7Y7bIA9aqOZM8I42jD0NfH9vfg_adsMWNO4tn8DialcpnE12eKQkYeyoFdSZv1gfI1mC3iPowul-mGT7x0n2jh9t1orBfFXI0aOpj7D1Kia5nEa7AR_hyEBTnt7/s1600/IMG_20190819_113500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28tAr3XiT06BPL2vzt7Y7bIA9aqOZM8I42jD0NfH9vfg_adsMWNO4tn8DialcpnE12eKQkYeyoFdSZv1gfI1mC3iPowul-mGT7x0n2jh9t1orBfFXI0aOpj7D1Kia5nEa7AR_hyEBTnt7/s320/IMG_20190819_113500.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Everywhere I
look brings memories back, this shot of a sofa in the living room holds a
number of designs each with their own story however this <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Butterfly cushion (centre on sofa) holds a very special place
for me, it was the first time I had ever attempted a free design, until then it
was geometric, geometric and even more geometric - while those designs gave
great scope for textured stitches, the freedom I experienced with the
butterflies probably was the start to my recent designs of Patchwork with Iris
and the Wedgewood Butterflies.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The
Butterflies framed above on the wall are again happy memories, Dede Ogden and I
designed and taught the design on a residential course in Connecticut; she is
one of the most talented designers I know and working with her was such fun.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs0Lz0Nn99hQk8fQ4_lEby8ciC5d2N4JgyhE5cYydCWN7uHCjPL3ohsochkYnby92S60rUpH1aT5C0Ku_V-TDFGryPAVdolrvZNFpbKxxlHTFlamBo5vpufN81bmFOrI6Kz6fTZ0q-iIi6/s1600/IMG_20190819_113224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimbEhOuR3k1IWrGExnIdTbYWo_5rgEjVlUnRCugx2DPeFgnHRmfgJEZotIq6nOon5KUHbBasozuU643BtWP-XqFAk2OKJlAjnWzckjVrvga7ve-VeIiGNzdollYdxVrToHx5uQn67Bdeir/s1600/IMG_20190819_113402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1587" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimbEhOuR3k1IWrGExnIdTbYWo_5rgEjVlUnRCugx2DPeFgnHRmfgJEZotIq6nOon5KUHbBasozuU643BtWP-XqFAk2OKJlAjnWzckjVrvga7ve-VeIiGNzdollYdxVrToHx5uQn67Bdeir/s200/IMG_20190819_113402.jpg" width="198" /></a><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;">This
Hydrangea rug has been with me many years, first in a London drawing room then
on a wood block floor in the 19</span><sup><span style="font-size: small;">th</span></sup><span style="font-size: large;"> century mill in Norfolk and now in
my bedroom here in Primrose Hill on a pale tiled floor - happy memories of
stitching it with some help from friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Also in this photograph is a glimpse of the corner of a four posted bed, the poles when
I first saw them were part of a pair of standard lamps;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>probably they were originally posts so I feel
happy that we have restored them to the original use.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-80897692430673959882019-07-02T04:05:00.002-07:002019-07-02T04:05:33.815-07:00Introduction to Needlepoint and the equipment you need.<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">First of all, what is<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">
needlepoint?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>It is counted thread
embroidery mostly covering the ground material – even weave canvas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However my web site shows many different lacy
designs and incorporating different coloured canvases into the design. Sometimes
it is called tapestry erroneously but that is a different story!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyrYzaMpg1ZtBbmemJTq66lnUGNKQKyn5t6uS9gRp58UUdDX1jB_hofGZUkPWUFzt2059dd80xibVQnChxLdZXXmnW3xledNKtcoZfcWPPxRzZ25IuF3i6BMWEAMXJrDWSTK4oezo0gXIi/s1600/ArezzoStitching2019+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyrYzaMpg1ZtBbmemJTq66lnUGNKQKyn5t6uS9gRp58UUdDX1jB_hofGZUkPWUFzt2059dd80xibVQnChxLdZXXmnW3xledNKtcoZfcWPPxRzZ25IuF3i6BMWEAMXJrDWSTK4oezo0gXIi/s200/ArezzoStitching2019+%25282%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Girls Stitching in Tuscany</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">There are three main types of needlepoint, Tent stitch from
charts or on printed or hand-painted canvases; Florentine/Bargello traditional
upright stitches worked in curves and spires and Stitchery on geometric designs
and for adding interest to painted canvases.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">This blog covers equipment for all types of needlepoint that I have found useful though the years.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">One of the most attractive aspects of learning needlepoint
right from the start is the fact that initially very little equipment is needed
to get one going in the right direction.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Later on as you become more hooked, possibly see fellow
stitches either at class or in ‘stitch and bitch’ groups with equipment they
love you can add on or build as you wish.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anna's Mill in Norfolk</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: calibri; font-size: large;">I design and stitch all the projects we offer on class or
the web.</span><span style="font-family: calibri; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: calibri; font-size: large;">So, while I stitch a great deal
I can only tell you of the items I can’t do without and find essential to my
stitching pleasure.</span><span style="font-family: calibri; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: calibri; font-size: large;">There are many, many
others I haven’t mentioned as I’ve not tried them or find non-essential.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I expect the first thing to talk about is the kit or design
you pick first time around;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>we hold
regular open days when people are able to see our range, discuss whether it would
be right for their standard of stitching; which colour scheme would best suit
their home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Failing that our web site
does show full details of the colour schemes and one can hover over a design to
see detail.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">If a design from another designer do not go for anything too
large; I would reject screen printed designs on interlock canvas, any design on
Double or Penelope canvas. 12 or 14 mesh evenweave are good to start on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Crewel wool is the best option (see later)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally check the design doesn’t only allows
for half-cross stitch as that doesn’t wear well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you should work a background in Basket
weave/Diagonal Tent instead of the suggested Half Cross you will not have
enough of wool supplied and finding a match could be difficult so better, right
from the start, to have fresh background wool of the right quantity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check quantity in any event by stitching a
square inch in the stitch you plan to use on the identical canvas and recording
the number of threads used.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Canvas </b>Besides
the canvas mesh, (the higher the number the finer the canvas, eg 14 threads to
the inch is larger than 18 threads to the inch) there are three main types of
canvas, Penelope or Double, Interlock and Evenweave.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Our kits come complete with the evenweave, when the canvas
threads weave over and under each other allowing for some give and take when
the piece is finished and in use.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The 14 and 18 mesh are available in white and antique
(brown) so choose the colour to best suit your colour scheme. The 18 mesh also
comes in an exciting range of colours, both pastel and dramatic.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cakes stand</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A frame is essential</b>
– in my book anyway – the type that is best to use are artist stretcher
bars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They come in pairs in different
lengths and widths and simply slot together - very easy to store and use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The lengths you need are the same as the
canvas dimensions, a 10 x 10 inch canvas needs a 10 x 10 “ frame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The narrow ones we can supply are light and
best fitted with flat headed drawing pins. They can be reused time and time
again and will fit with other lengths of the same width to make rectangles etc
for future projects. It is always possible to order a frame at the same time as
a new project.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Threads,</b> probably the best choice for your first attempts is crewel
wool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Appleton’s make a wonderful range
of closely shaded families, particularly good for shading realistically and
Florentine/Bargello designs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is
available in small skeins and larger hanks; I recommend the hanks as one
frequently wishes to do further designs in the same colour scheme.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Work with lengths no longer than18/19 inches
to prevent fraying. If working with a finer canvas 18/20/22 mesh consider an
even shorter length.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw5eHt5zIN4Yp3P99Uly2vSDZDDIrr4eg2oKUEtCp_jp_ZbLLSASxjxaRwQAJyC-gNeZDPwsfkuEQqXKP29Dz3ARRTMSJXjQHUlo8227Vm-uC3eX60iwYDklb2p9Q27QEqDDqTWxxLjnP7/s1600/CNV00119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="533" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw5eHt5zIN4Yp3P99Uly2vSDZDDIrr4eg2oKUEtCp_jp_ZbLLSASxjxaRwQAJyC-gNeZDPwsfkuEQqXKP29Dz3ARRTMSJXjQHUlo8227Vm-uC3eX60iwYDklb2p9Q27QEqDDqTWxxLjnP7/s200/CNV00119.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joint teaching project with Dede Ogden</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Later on when more confident, stranded and pearl cottons add
interest to designs and when hooked overdyed floss, silks and metallic, are
beautiful to work with and look marvellous. New, exciting threads are
introduced all the time – I try and incorporate them in my designs. In my kit instructions
these threads are explained when applicable.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;">So, now you are set up to make a start - a kit or
instructions in a book you love, the colour scheme that suits, a frame and of
course needles!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If and when you wish to
change a colour scheme from that given, it is most satisfactory to replace wool
with wool, stranded cottons with stranded cottons etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Needles are usually given in kits however you need <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">‘tapestry needles</b>’ that have no point
that would split the canvas threads.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They are available two ways, in a mixed pack or an individual pack of
one size – these I find better.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">As a rule, <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Size 18 is for 12 mesh canvas<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">20 for 14 mesh canvas<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">22 for 18 mesh canvas<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Exceptions to these rules that are worth considering - for
Pulled Thread stitches I use a larger size than recommended to enlarge the
holes effortlessly and I enjoy using<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a
fine 24 needle for lacy stitches on 18 mesh.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Recently I have discovered a French needle manufacturer that
are markedly nicer to use; these are now included in our kits and available
from us in packs of 6.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">For those of us who have problems threading needles (I find
the French needles much easier) there is an excellent <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">3 in 1 Needle Threader</b>;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>it
can thread sewing cotton on a fine wire loop, medium threads on a hook and
thick threads on<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a large hook.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Binding the edge of
the canvas; </b>most often our canvases are taped before sale; otherwise the
edges of the canvas should be bound with 1” masking tape.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Stitching with others
is always a bonus</b>, there may be classes in your area where you will get
useful tips that will help all future work, there may be a ‘stitch & bitch’
group that meets in a private home, there you would see other people’s
work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All group stitching be it in a
formal class or informal group gives you the opportunity of discussing your
work, making new friends and generally swopping ideas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Highly recommended.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crewel wools & threads, range of coloured canvases<br />
and stretcher bar frames</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Then, when you are ready, you might think of adding to your
equipment; there are small items to pick up and others, more expensive that are
really helpful to your work and pleasure.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Among others the small items are scissors, laying tools, needle
cases, thread storage and project bags and magnetic pick up tools for finding
and rescuing your needle.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Until recently I loved some small curved decoupage scissors
but they appear to be no longer available so I am researching alternatives. The
curved tips get under waste knots with easy. The airline authorities generally
accept blades under 4.5mm but perhaps it is wise not to rely on this, pack a
spare pair in your check-in and have a thread cutter for the flight. The ones I
like are a Japanese ‘disc’ that I wear as a necklace or a cheapo airline
cutter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Group photo of small accessories. <o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">If you plan on cutting canvas then a larger pair of shears
would be useful (not to be taken on board!)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Unpicking work is often unavoidable and the two tips I offer
are - There is often more thread on the reverse making it easier to snip; the
curved scissors are good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally use eyebrow
tweezers (or any tweezers that you have) for pulling the cut stitches out.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Laying tools</b> come
in various materials, polished wood, metal and plastic; They help your threads,
particularly cottons, floss, and <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>perle
to lay smoothly; <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>in particular any
thread that you use with a number of ply.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">My favourite are the wood versions but many of my students
like the ‘trolley needle’ a laying tool that fits on a finger always at the
ready.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Try for yourself.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Needle case</b>s
again come in many forms;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>one can make a
small ‘book’ with flannel ‘leaves’ and a canvas work cover or recently I have
found a pop-up that holds all sizes of needles or if needed a pop-up for each
size. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are amusing copies of pewter
Victorian animals with padding <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>for the
needles – a great present for friends who stitch. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Then comes a method of keeping your threads under control!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The one I like and use often is a heavy card
with various size holes to accommodate the selection of threads (wool is more
bulky than say stranded cotton)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I use these as I can record reference numbers,
quantities used and ideally the code that the kit has used for that
colour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now these cards are included in
our larger kits.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Then transporting your precious project,</b> or even just keeping it
all together. The simplest way is an old pillow case, a more sophisticated
method of transport is making yourself a large tote bag; make it generous
enough to take the size of canvas (left on the frame) you usually work on and
it can be fabric or needlepoint – either just the front or both sides and a
shoulder strap all in needlepoint – I suggest a longish strap to go over the
shoulder and leave both hands free<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6DFk49agQOIcJRVJGWlxYxRelQxrQIQrAfJ2EwTbVm2xCw0iArtijOUPp071gYCtJ5XnJTujc7bPBCxS1bXSXZAuQ6tUfdIw2EfyLGTxwPOSRhtr-wMwe6LtoVkFA9uc6Gxi8IoTbvh_E/s1600/IMG_20190624_101527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1417" data-original-width="1600" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6DFk49agQOIcJRVJGWlxYxRelQxrQIQrAfJ2EwTbVm2xCw0iArtijOUPp071gYCtJ5XnJTujc7bPBCxS1bXSXZAuQ6tUfdIw2EfyLGTxwPOSRhtr-wMwe6LtoVkFA9uc6Gxi8IoTbvh_E/s320/IMG_20190624_101527.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Needle threaded, Magnetic Pickup, Project card, Tweezers, <br />
Needle holder & a Needle case</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">So, now take a breath, you love your stitching and to make
it even more pleasurable; these items will help immensely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">floor frame</b> to hold your piece at both
the right height and angle; good for your back if you need further
justification!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My absolute top favourite is the Lowery floor
frame, the silver grey version with a side clamp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The big advantage over many on the market is
that it has a good floor plate that, with your foot or chair leg is rock solid
and that it stands to the side of you and leaves both your hands free for
2-hand stitching. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also has a useful
range of add-ons illustrated on their site. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many others come centrally into your body and
should you need to get up for the telephone or a well earned coffee, go
flying!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I always have some of these Lowery
floor frames that students can try on class. I even have some students who have taken a
second one – for down and upstairs or in their weekend cottage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having said that they are not impossible to
pack as they all come apart!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Then there is light
and magnification - </b>daylight can’t be beaten but most of us stich in the
evening and frequently in the winter with curtains drawn with lights on quite
early.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I am spoilt in having two
types, each of which I love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First
there is a wall mounted magnification and light; it has a large magnification
area so I can see the whole design area without too much adjustment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It does come with a floor base but mine is
fixed with a bracket to a wall but could be clipped to a table or window
cill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It lives right by my stitching
chair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It needs a power point for the
light.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The other version is even more adaptable; it can be connected
to power but will also work on batteries; it comes with a solid floor base but
can also be used alone with a strong clip for a table top or similar. This is
the one I take for travelling (without the base if I know there will be a
suitable table to clamp it to)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Again both these items are here in the studio, I encourage
people to try them and see which would suit them best.</span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKoB79oERqU2-1X4Vg5vnTvCx8ANzY-wNXSN5y5VbEUGh8RJibH0ggp1Rx3RFShDceyUoB-2ot1F01Ilxc1PuAR1l1ohUoBW5UDFsfd4fJtoe31BnA3rhdD46KjOJEd-D9RpOYybvcWtWX/s1600/IMG_20190624_101852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1261" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKoB79oERqU2-1X4Vg5vnTvCx8ANzY-wNXSN5y5VbEUGh8RJibH0ggp1Rx3RFShDceyUoB-2ot1F01Ilxc1PuAR1l1ohUoBW5UDFsfd4fJtoe31BnA3rhdD46KjOJEd-D9RpOYybvcWtWX/s320/IMG_20190624_101852.jpg" width="252" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lowery floor frame (canvas on artist stretcher bar frame)<br />
& Magnification / Light (works on electricity or battery)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">So, step by step you have items that truly make stitching
even more pleasurable and not expensive or difficult to get.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Think how much a set of golf clubs would cost!<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><a href="http://www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/">www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com</a></span></span>Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-15206512060119614312019-06-18T03:29:00.000-07:002019-06-18T03:29:52.858-07:00Master Classes Blog<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">With my confined status due to my ankle fracture I am
fortunate in having my needlepoint stitching, my finished pieces and an
extensive out of print book collection around me. Time to reflect on all this and my many years
of stitching has introduced a new series of one day classes Master Classes, each
in a particular needlepoint technique.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmq5dP6LH7uCjrkG0qumdK6PhM8kUj_VIdpRviXKDFW5NpUmsqAT4OVmylIV7o31UXW8H76o1Qs_Mh29hcvQkjHXmscZJ9lp1BTejSvbBeN383M1atoLMKl8K1d5qjJOXAgjSubBIFTVsB/s1600/IMG_20190618_104532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmq5dP6LH7uCjrkG0qumdK6PhM8kUj_VIdpRviXKDFW5NpUmsqAT4OVmylIV7o31UXW8H76o1Qs_Mh29hcvQkjHXmscZJ9lp1BTejSvbBeN383M1atoLMKl8K1d5qjJOXAgjSubBIFTVsB/s200/IMG_20190618_104532.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Various Tartans</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The idea for each day is to study the technique, Florentine,
Basketweave Tent and Backgrounds, Patterned Darning etc with some historical
background, making a personal stitched sampler and learning many tips and
special techniques associated with that form of needlepoint.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em>The days so far offered are available at the end of the blog.</em></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Basketweave & Backgrounds.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I know everyone thinks they ‘know’ Basket weave Tent but
there are many tips to help you get the best possible smooth and hard-wearing
results.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, how to avoid kits that
only allow for Half Cross that won’t wear satisfactorily. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSqt5W4sOttJxhaoHhiG2S7vAWj4Inbq7UX5mrRGOhG_qcJhyphenhyphenfPqFp8MsMrCqGp8GM4pFxMULurxr17Gqmjc-Yw-BWf20hfX6T8IENf844OZDL1lEytJ3UBLVYk7b3OxCfi6NCPxSc1IpZ/s1600/IMG_20190618_104721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1145" data-original-width="1600" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSqt5W4sOttJxhaoHhiG2S7vAWj4Inbq7UX5mrRGOhG_qcJhyphenhyphenfPqFp8MsMrCqGp8GM4pFxMULurxr17Gqmjc-Yw-BWf20hfX6T8IENf844OZDL1lEytJ3UBLVYk7b3OxCfi6NCPxSc1IpZ/s200/IMG_20190618_104721.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Autumn mill where water and sky <br />
where important stitch decisions</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Backgrounds can be solid, covering the canvas with
interesting textures to give hard ware or more lacy stitches for decorative
pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Samples of a selection of both
are given and can be worked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Personally
I have needed stitches suitable for water, skies and vegetation and ideas for
these are also included.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong></strong></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Fabulous Florentine</strong> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Florentine, Bargello and Hungarian Point are all names
associated with these beautiful patterns and photographs of wonderful antique bed
hangings and upholstery are examined.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXZriTrYOWYHKtKBQuuz2uZU0gFc83jwsJbUmmDmav3YhuLpotxyRvLRdOOqzNe3w9iyZnq8RVrJ9OJP9r5Eiv7RPozrtOMdHXgWcSDhFh58hLOUo90qji5GhjPGv_XFoyHm9AoJ0BcNad/s1600/IMG_20190618_105724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1511" data-original-width="1600" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXZriTrYOWYHKtKBQuuz2uZU0gFc83jwsJbUmmDmav3YhuLpotxyRvLRdOOqzNe3w9iyZnq8RVrJ9OJP9r5Eiv7RPozrtOMdHXgWcSDhFh58hLOUo90qji5GhjPGv_XFoyHm9AoJ0BcNad/s200/IMG_20190618_105724.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">14 Mesh, pulled thread</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is such a vast subject it is offered in two levels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I recommend Part I for those with little
prior knowledge and gives basic curves and spires as well as 8 or more patterns
for experiment that can be used for cushions, chair seats, bell pulls and much
else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Part II for those of you who have
either extensive knowledge, done Part I or wish to create your own Florentine
designs, mix different motifs in stool tops or rugs and explore Florentine with
Pulled thread.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
</span></i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong></strong></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Pulled Thread<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXAlaxOTcGQf-ADtN8MqqERMiBWRFioP33jrKV2RZkWxFO3pD_QerjNEwZBJZNWQ6Z_Md0NT8VFs72_5nqCMLwXAqsG_yQCqJFv62SWgL3AIy_EfRFUaAwIgOgGW3_EjTSXsWsKKbg8qKN/s1600/IMG_20190618_104659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1586" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXAlaxOTcGQf-ADtN8MqqERMiBWRFioP33jrKV2RZkWxFO3pD_QerjNEwZBJZNWQ6Z_Md0NT8VFs72_5nqCMLwXAqsG_yQCqJFv62SWgL3AIy_EfRFUaAwIgOgGW3_EjTSXsWsKKbg8qKN/s200/IMG_20190618_104659.jpg" width="198" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">18 Mesh, pulled thread</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The canvas threads are ‘pulled’ not removed (that is called
drawn thread as threads are withdrawn) and the sampler you work to record the
stitches makes a charming small panel or cushion.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In this case some pre-class stitching of cross stitch frames
is needed;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the canvas, thread and charts
is sent out on receipt of the class fee so these frames which are needed to
anchor the<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>pulled thread stitches are
done, ready for the class.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong></strong></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Patterned Darning<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF_EMW43PDBuUhyQYLvyJ5DMEcWQmUftLu-dj7ZmFZ3uvRhUVOiq30IwA5bqg_RREfj5iezqCViQj5IZB9kPvN_o1DtmOeb_ObQGz1IEW1vI6etP3IPsuAPvYTzdNpJBKeFkAckC5-ZLXV/s1600/IMG_20190618_104616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF_EMW43PDBuUhyQYLvyJ5DMEcWQmUftLu-dj7ZmFZ3uvRhUVOiq30IwA5bqg_RREfj5iezqCViQj5IZB9kPvN_o1DtmOeb_ObQGz1IEW1vI6etP3IPsuAPvYTzdNpJBKeFkAckC5-ZLXV/s200/IMG_20190618_104616.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spot sampler of Pattern Darning <br />
to be worked by students</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This can be offered in two forms; a ‘spot sample’ can be
worked (as this photo shows) or as another ‘panel’ to be made into a cushion or
small picture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only in the case of a
panel is some pre-class stitching needed – similar to the details given for
Pulled Thread.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Patterned Darning is
particularly suitable for backgrounds, gives ideas for Shadow Stitching – when
a painted or sprayed canvas is allowed to show through the stitches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many traditional stitches can be worked as
Patterned Darning and this will be explained.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong></strong></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"></span></strong> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"></span></strong> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Spectacular Stitches<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeOosVfwLPmLH55frOH90JLBMfmj4BcDfcoydX59oJvJ2H4FXbtpBojBmQsvKUHEk-fdXRt32CkPNQtavJlV0tBk053D5FQr_StBn-6bZG8XjCFOWQm_6y7I28stM6uikg9tFi9jxxaLBY/s1600/Final+9-2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="880" data-original-width="880" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeOosVfwLPmLH55frOH90JLBMfmj4BcDfcoydX59oJvJ2H4FXbtpBojBmQsvKUHEk-fdXRt32CkPNQtavJlV0tBk053D5FQr_StBn-6bZG8XjCFOWQm_6y7I28stM6uikg9tFi9jxxaLBY/s200/Final+9-2.gif" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Example of a Dramatic Stitch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">One always needs a wow facture on a piece, especially a
picture or cushion for an elegant position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>With the instructions, charts given and your sampler you will have a
working, useful record to refer to for countless future projects.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong></strong></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"></span></strong> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"></span></strong> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Tartan & Gingham<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOIkLsLmpLRonhlElCNQRxH3D_DHWAVspQUhOiTxVQvUuA9CeMZLT62Hbyg8zD5dcqLxsenyUlYRNe47y0JEvisJ1EsPZ_mV7ajcfZKhP5vllccBo1eLPqcYG-cvsZc_EbVP60DkqM6atI/s1600/IMG_20190618_104800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOIkLsLmpLRonhlElCNQRxH3D_DHWAVspQUhOiTxVQvUuA9CeMZLT62Hbyg8zD5dcqLxsenyUlYRNe47y0JEvisJ1EsPZ_mV7ajcfZKhP5vllccBo1eLPqcYG-cvsZc_EbVP60DkqM6atI/s200/IMG_20190618_104800.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This Huntly Tartan makes a good <br />
choice for upholstery</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It would appear that a vast number of surnames entitle one
to a tartan and besides working a panel with 8 different tartans, full details
of working out your own tartan or gingham is given. Both, in different ways are
fun to work but also give excellent wear so besides cushions they make good
upholstery items, rugs and backgrounds; ginghams are particularly good for children’s
designs.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On payment of the Class fee each student will get pre-class
notes, listing the options for the materials<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(canvas mesh/colour and colour scheme) and a set of helpful ‘Techniques
ad Tips’ for downloading and future reference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is in order that we can have things ready on arrival and to enable
everyone to get the most out of the class.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVRAh0xUMDF60PylpUSYnUDRy9miCSPJSMjvqjJl6QckNcxbn81jQSxNSeQrXSh4PKQTtwgimdXLzbLW6qjH1jjPVNo4V-zsvCbVSv6TUKk21hBZSxkwPNxNn0EwQBOvVf9rXI0K14VkBz/s1600/IMG_20190618_104447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1594" data-original-width="1600" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVRAh0xUMDF60PylpUSYnUDRy9miCSPJSMjvqjJl6QckNcxbn81jQSxNSeQrXSh4PKQTtwgimdXLzbLW6qjH1jjPVNo4V-zsvCbVSv6TUKk21hBZSxkwPNxNn0EwQBOvVf9rXI0K14VkBz/s200/IMG_20190618_104447.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I just love the colour, I should really finish it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have already held three of these days during the last few
months, the students have found them instructive and useful so there are more
in the Autumn class programme.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you
should be planning a trip to England with some fellow stitches we can always
arrange a special day for you.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I should love to hear from you with thoughts, ideas and
hopefully see you.</span></span></div>
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<u>Master Class Dates</u>:</div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="font-size: large;">Wednesday 25<sup>th</sup> September
(Florentine)<b><u><o:p></o:p></u></b></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Wednesday 9<span style="font-size: large;"><sup>th</sup> October (Pattern Darning)<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Wednesday 13<span style="font-size: large;"><sup>th</sup> November (Spectacular Stitches)<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Wednesday 11<span style="font-size: large;"><sup>th</sup> December
(Florentine Part 2)<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
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Please email me for any more info <a href="mailto:anna.pearson365@gmail.com">anna.pearson365@gmail.com</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span> </div>
Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-52340683527451181852019-04-15T06:24:00.000-07:002019-04-15T06:25:53.783-07:00Interim Blog<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 19.97333335876465px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1orG0vLbVUSh0A0v0wPY-a3thDfcuA8NWxOG-VIFjOzL4fT1bJyfTZDjosOFc0xUKvk73QyWLvDLNLVJc_AJeXYUMWLG_j351EWTWvLOo4Us-IWCNYaNTOQvbF5JE_jj-YNl6hDPhzobX/s1600/sr-1337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="935" data-original-width="736" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1orG0vLbVUSh0A0v0wPY-a3thDfcuA8NWxOG-VIFjOzL4fT1bJyfTZDjosOFc0xUKvk73QyWLvDLNLVJc_AJeXYUMWLG_j351EWTWvLOo4Us-IWCNYaNTOQvbF5JE_jj-YNl6hDPhzobX/s200/sr-1337.jpg" width="156" /></a>April is here and on my last blog I promise to post regular articles each month however, unfortunately I have had an accident – broken my ankle rather badly and have no weight bearing on that leg at all for 6 weeks You can imagine my life is quite restricted but learning to hop around on a frame – not that easy at my age – and being advised to rest as much as possible I am taking their advice.</div>
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I had planned for the next Blog to be a record of the equipment that I found personally, was useful for my stitching and gave me pleasure. In fact, I have written the copy but have to wait for a photo session illustrating the items talked about – they say that a picture is worth a thousand words and anyway it is always good to see what one is talking about! So that will follow as soon as I can get around.</div>
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I have an appointment at the hospital this Thursday when I hope my heavy caste will be replaced with a lighter one and I should know more about future plans. Needless to say, my every moment has been working out a realistic programme for what is already planned both here and for the trip to Italy at the end of the month. With the greatest disappointment, I am not able to go to the Tuscan trip, a flight with a caste is not allowed. It was to be our fourth visit, the place is gorgeous and the owner Gillie a delighted and gifted cook. Fortunately, the girls have decided to go without me, some of them have been before and they all know each other well. They will be able to sit in the sun to stitch and go on all the interesting trips we had planned.</div>
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All the classes here (see both the Spring programme and the Master Classes dates I sent out before the accident are AFTER THE DATE when I should be back to normal and I am really keen to honour them. The day class on the 15<sup>th</sup>May is already full and the three Master Classes – Florentine Master Class 16<sup>th</sup> May; Exciting Backgrounds 22<sup>nd</sup> May and Patterned Darning on the 27<sup>th</sup> June are all booking well so if you are interested – and free that day – please let me know as, always I shall keep the groups small as there will be lots of reference material to study as well as making personal records.</div>
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Finally, extra classes during the summer period worked well last year so I plan to repeat them. You may remember that I suggested some dates and then waited to hear back whether any were possible for you – that class was then scheduled only when the interest was shown. The dates offered are 29<sup>th</sup> May and the 3<sup>rd</sup> July –please let me know if you are interested.</div>
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The other disappointment I have is having – for once been organised – booked some visits and talks to the fabulous exhibitions this Spring, talks on Dior, Mary Quant and Van Gogh shan’t be able to go. I shall still hope to see the exhibitions later on but I do find these specific talks most helpful.</div>
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On a different tack we enjoy a series of Summer Lectures at our church, St Mary’s the Virgin at Primrose Hill in June and July. This year the programme is particularly exciting with Andrew Marr (12<sup>th</sup> June) Daniel Rosenthal on the National Theatre (26<sup>th</sup> June) Spies, Dementia, Surgery at the Front Line and a Return of Nature (on different evenings!) so a varied programme. Do look at the list –on line booking is available – and let me know if you are coming.</div>
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<a href="http://www.stmarysprimrosehill.com/primrose-hill-lectures">www.stmarysprimrosehill.com/primrose-hill-lectures</a></div>
Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-62249823753114159602019-02-25T04:21:00.001-08:002019-02-25T04:21:52.026-08:00New Year, New Projects<br />
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With Christmas and all the family festivities and then my being
away – fortunately in the sun – I am afraid a blog hasn’t been written recently;
however being away from the computer (at least some of the time and the Wi-Fi
wasn’t too dependable) I was able to revisit some of the things that happened
last year and to plan detail for the next few months.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEqvA3vHpQtrEZCueA2xVhMY-rZdUYyRwTtZYvBnxw753cb8NYhSbe8XYWsHqeP2dBiIG1ywQFBiemcWanKRoYdvWM4sYotNcbLJCIgtcSrRszrokDE-M-_c0HPo6WLSVPzj33fLxxzq17/s1600/20190225_103845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1599" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEqvA3vHpQtrEZCueA2xVhMY-rZdUYyRwTtZYvBnxw753cb8NYhSbe8XYWsHqeP2dBiIG1ywQFBiemcWanKRoYdvWM4sYotNcbLJCIgtcSrRszrokDE-M-_c0HPo6WLSVPzj33fLxxzq17/s200/20190225_103845.jpg" width="199" /></a>Last year my excitement with coloured canvas, lacy stitches
to make full use of both elements and shadow stitching showing a painted design
grew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the trip I managed to finish
‘Basket Weavers of Road Town’<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have
mentioned this piece before, inspired by a painting by Jill Tattersall who went
out to Tortola in the BVIs in the 60s with her family;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>some years later she painted a series
recalling the early days.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In Tuscany the group
project was the house logo, a pair of pheasants under an olive tree worked with
silks and metallic and in Calabria where everyone is able to choose their
design I worked a flight of Butterflies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This painted canvas –shown here – is most versatile allowing freedom of
shading and total coverage or shadow stitching to allow the painted detail to
show through; it can be supplied painted canvas only so everyone can decide for
themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This painted canvas can now
be supplied, shadow stitching and border diagram will be available soon.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaVZ68gSU1hwdbu5fqa94mPXH4B2jBoO_Vs1OCIGv4oiNrMo12Y4-IIbjK-6QZMOfVU7wYABTdhbS8VIZplsfojb3Pn-RQNgAKotdZBCMF_yYCv4cw-IU_9HyFxstGexf2C2X6aMG5Hty7/s1600/20190225_102609+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1174" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaVZ68gSU1hwdbu5fqa94mPXH4B2jBoO_Vs1OCIGv4oiNrMo12Y4-IIbjK-6QZMOfVU7wYABTdhbS8VIZplsfojb3Pn-RQNgAKotdZBCMF_yYCv4cw-IU_9HyFxstGexf2C2X6aMG5Hty7/s320/20190225_102609+%25281%2529.jpg" width="234" /></a>The classes here in London were well attended and students
chose to work on my new designs (see web site particularly Tudor and Cathedral
Tiles) or an exciting array of custom designs, chairs - a lovely small child’s
chair, wall panels, fire screens and stools. As always I always have a good
finisher in mind before agreeing to even start a project.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The sad news is a number of good friends have died; some of
my favourite needlepoint friends have lost their partners and John Tovey who
many of you will remember from our annual trips to his boutique hotel on Lake
Windermere has died in South Africa. We managed to clock up more than 20 visits
to the Miller Howe, John frequently stitched with us and regaled us with many
amusing stories. More recently he moved to Cape Town and I visited him twice;
visiting restaurants with a pro was an eye opener! John was generous with
culinary information and loved by all my ‘girls’ – a one-off who will be missed
greatly.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But on our recent trip I also had time – in between swimming
and stitching – to plan designs, classes and trips for this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two promises I made to myself – firstly to
blog more regularly, aiming for one post a month (fingers crossed I keep to
it!)) And second to design projects that can be worked in a number of
techniques suited to both the stitcher and the end use they wish for; in many
cases their own stash of threads can be used up.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A new idea I am working on at the moment but while I shall
be able to fill you in on detail soon the idea is to have a regular ‘offer of
the month’, it may be a kit or equipment at a special price<o:p></o:p></div>
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The offer of the month will be available through all of my
social media outlets, it may be a kit (Digital or Hard copy) Useful accessories
(scissors, frames, laying tools) always accompanied by various tips &
tricks of needlepoint.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now all I have to do is fine plan both this new idea, I
should so much like to hear from you with comments or ideas as to how you would
like to see it working – do let me know of any suggestions.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-17407884673851177012018-11-28T03:11:00.000-08:002018-11-28T03:12:59.772-08:00Christmas is Coming!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvUKB3M2AYFNicHLQ96NCUyaFgy_zfhW_n7eQ38K4-zyT2ZaiFaPrD3_a-GAt7CyxqYOelQVUOkWHwntbiici3_JMZu6QjqoYCdOdfojEZCxYv-aX6e51RON3zMIZZ-jSbjKzGRNpz_F1/s1600/IMG-20181128-WA0000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvUKB3M2AYFNicHLQ96NCUyaFgy_zfhW_n7eQ38K4-zyT2ZaiFaPrD3_a-GAt7CyxqYOelQVUOkWHwntbiici3_JMZu6QjqoYCdOdfojEZCxYv-aX6e51RON3zMIZZ-jSbjKzGRNpz_F1/s200/IMG-20181128-WA0000.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The period before Christmas is frenetic, however the
excitement of the children, homes all decorated, makes up for the cold weather,
terrible traffic and dark evenings.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">As a result, I am only writing a short blog which hopefully
you might have time to read!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">AS always I manage to stitch a little each day– I think it
keeps me sane and anyway, I love every minute. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqWz9ZhkLRUFyYFhQEZVwGKwQx_4g3VT07wRf5aoDHOHmqGlWwN32i4gUhNjpPwNJC587wI41iOWPKloA1ZJatBuOnyLXbcclKRHSK6hokPVepzwTpOJoLt8qQqUI6A6BQNojcxJyPzoUQ/s1600/u+jack+%2526+allsorts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1552" data-original-width="1275" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqWz9ZhkLRUFyYFhQEZVwGKwQx_4g3VT07wRf5aoDHOHmqGlWwN32i4gUhNjpPwNJC587wI41iOWPKloA1ZJatBuOnyLXbcclKRHSK6hokPVepzwTpOJoLt8qQqUI6A6BQNojcxJyPzoUQ/s200/u+jack+%2526+allsorts.jpg" width="163" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two of my more zanier designs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Two new pieces to show you – first an additional panel for
my leather clutch bag – over the years these purses in black leather have been
popular as one can stitch panels to match different outfits. The new one cheers
up many of my evening outfits and, better still, only took me an evening to
complete;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>seen here it was worked on 18
mesh black canvas with two shades of metallic.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5wCweQSE2J5i-MsVAHk3uOmEuUqGDHn-xBkLCsNTX8cYeqDXzBW5HJdb_tQOx29WYrkt2ZG1f2u5pcl3Md-VnAInztjb4g8ZrhB6bSAZgqmPR6rZnw14Up7oVbg8qaI3LSytsA06kNuA/s1600/20181128_104223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1186" data-original-width="1600" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5wCweQSE2J5i-MsVAHk3uOmEuUqGDHn-xBkLCsNTX8cYeqDXzBW5HJdb_tQOx29WYrkt2ZG1f2u5pcl3Md-VnAInztjb4g8ZrhB6bSAZgqmPR6rZnw14Up7oVbg8qaI3LSytsA06kNuA/s200/20181128_104223.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">So, if you have one of these bags, may be from way back when
I taught panels on American Needlepoint Guild annual events in Scotsdale and
somewhere else – so long ago I can’t remember exactly where get them out and
start enjoying them again. Let me know if you would like to see the range of designs
now available.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUUN84XXI9UeHJDdbXTYjXvwuOOBPVo48nDtqxWpjuGxmHwPJLWKQgvr9AnrUwbAdKg2IWI5PNzAc2x8pSABOfOWNK6q0wssIbN-UrTeAvJM_FM8Ix04Jvn59L2AZBUBeBmyKmVg0mFY-J/s1600/20181128_104301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1540" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUUN84XXI9UeHJDdbXTYjXvwuOOBPVo48nDtqxWpjuGxmHwPJLWKQgvr9AnrUwbAdKg2IWI5PNzAc2x8pSABOfOWNK6q0wssIbN-UrTeAvJM_FM8Ix04Jvn59L2AZBUBeBmyKmVg0mFY-J/s200/20181128_104301.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The other project, larger and bit more challenging are these
Butterflies, hand-painted and worked in Shadow stitching on 14 mesh canvas. For
the last few months I have been hooked on this technique of light, lacy stitches
that show the canvas detail with a soft veil of stitchery worked on top. Of
course, it would be equally good but very different in solid stitches such as
basket weave. <br />
I plan to include it on my web shortly in a new section – Hand-painted canvases.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBKgzHx7vEHlTQCXRE39J8_jvPVDgtVjwWCJK8z3tmvQkvMu3vdltzgg_wU2Xc_kl_MAFW0npNs0tseZ9kvz9fRM5EBVvS6d1lZHH2a5An53Qw1fyg5YitSprXkdePH45h0kyBHomanlN/s1600/IMG-20181128-WA0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBKgzHx7vEHlTQCXRE39J8_jvPVDgtVjwWCJK8z3tmvQkvMu3vdltzgg_wU2Xc_kl_MAFW0npNs0tseZ9kvz9fRM5EBVvS6d1lZHH2a5An53Qw1fyg5YitSprXkdePH45h0kyBHomanlN/s200/IMG-20181128-WA0001.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I Also just delivered this lovely Queen Anne rug 7 mesh canvas and crewel wools, finished for a customer just in time for Christmas, If you have pieces that need finishing do let us know.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;">Remember this is your last chance to get the Early Bird Offer for our April - May trip to Tuscany, do email me before this Friday to secure your discount, there are only a few places left.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">My best wishes for the holiday season and for a healthy,
peaceful New Year.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">A x</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><a href="http://www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/">www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</div>
Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-6578571104621314282018-10-09T03:57:00.001-07:002018-10-09T03:59:03.778-07:00Autumn is here.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBVeMpxZkRXT5FD2pWlLLlCHsStQFhZYnO8D9i6LF1uYZyqdVguBbsr9gUPSzjk8kkz9xcNyE4DC3gs80NBoTj8Gek5NJCb34I5lnw2XoRd0WGSXfpEo9_-NnBsYRaLNWLfQKQQ6Zsi4lV/s1600/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="779" data-original-width="521" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBVeMpxZkRXT5FD2pWlLLlCHsStQFhZYnO8D9i6LF1uYZyqdVguBbsr9gUPSzjk8kkz9xcNyE4DC3gs80NBoTj8Gek5NJCb34I5lnw2XoRd0WGSXfpEo9_-NnBsYRaLNWLfQKQQ6Zsi4lV/s200/1.png" width="133" /></a><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;">Just back from our 11</span><sup><span style="font-size: small;">th</span></sup><span style="font-size: large;"> trip to Pirapora close to
Tropea in Calabria southern <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Italy<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Robert and I had a great week in Puglia
before driving across from the east coast to pick up my stitching friends on the
west coast to arrive at Pirapora.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Crossing from Puglia, interesting villages, churches and trulli
houses but very flat we appreciated just how dramatic and beautiful the Calabria
countryside is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a very wet summer
it was amazingly green – fortunately the weather changed as we arrived and we
enjoyed warm sun and blue skies for our whole visit.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcQXl0C_d203r1fP5WeW0bQxOWpPP7nowZwevzso3QcBrnHUhqp8AtwIeLY_XcGtWU8EzbCXao-jHzNtVlVf9TANeS7S950dbbxXuiQ3elXp4gxDR1_7EM4OOQ88XnelnsgnvUWpkjLmtk/s1600/20181009_102339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcQXl0C_d203r1fP5WeW0bQxOWpPP7nowZwevzso3QcBrnHUhqp8AtwIeLY_XcGtWU8EzbCXao-jHzNtVlVf9TANeS7S950dbbxXuiQ3elXp4gxDR1_7EM4OOQ88XnelnsgnvUWpkjLmtk/s200/20181009_102339.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">On or trips to Tuscany , usually in April/May, we always
have a design that everyone works, on this trip people are able to choose what
they wish to stitch. Both work well, this year in Tuscany we all stitched the
venue’s logo, a pair of pheasants under an olive tree;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>in Calabria there was a wide range from a
large wall hanging worked in silks on 18 mesh canvas to a hussif and all things
in between.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Personally I worked on a
group of Butterfly with a mixture of traditional solid stiches and shadow
stitchery.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXODlHwJi7LHVSC9n_n_9x1JcoqjGkmAhU9Fvz-ZJMahPbysYNN405H42uYZvxGPSptu0j0p_2KKAdQMh4mukHBUZeYJ3BOnx5HT8qhziK4gwcUTwFybVjTK3zvXsrkt8bvDE8TCOr2kZw/s1600/image00100.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXODlHwJi7LHVSC9n_n_9x1JcoqjGkmAhU9Fvz-ZJMahPbysYNN405H42uYZvxGPSptu0j0p_2KKAdQMh4mukHBUZeYJ3BOnx5HT8qhziK4gwcUTwFybVjTK3zvXsrkt8bvDE8TCOr2kZw/s200/image00100.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The Pheasants design called for rich metallic threads in
basket weave tent ,the Olive Tree leaves in embroidery, and the backgrounds in
both Skip Tent and a Patterned Darning with a fine stranded cotton and single
ply of a metallic.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDIRd7fv9wxca52hKFe7EiwdwYgpPmcyy8aORgHjUZ6dDnBNo4gDhHA0R9V4YLnP8A3KNahVkZUV0160nUXc913ZsYYVlOM3z4cPm6W4jwN1Ue9McIebxAQqgZfbe_1RRTMZbt_PTQIyDZ/s1600/hussif.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDIRd7fv9wxca52hKFe7EiwdwYgpPmcyy8aORgHjUZ6dDnBNo4gDhHA0R9V4YLnP8A3KNahVkZUV0160nUXc913ZsYYVlOM3z4cPm6W4jwN1Ue9McIebxAQqgZfbe_1RRTMZbt_PTQIyDZ/s200/hussif.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">A hussif is traditionally a holdall/pouch containing all a
soldier in the British Army might require for repairs to his clothing when
necessary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As you can see the
needlepoint cover is a good rectangular shape to design for –Vivian, in this
case chose <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a geometric – it is the
interior that can be as ambitious or not as one wishes. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLCSS5Xeezzskyth3OiiVqvxpH7Hz9mptnCbkMW6RlM_PJOM_cPJ7ki5vPeZQcKSdm_GPuXOmZRZKX3gKiP7jPSkmH4CLJA4IOzKcpVGj-6wS2Mb0GfEObJtiThv52y4kDf8yFzvi7dVmF/s1600/2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="324" data-original-width="488" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLCSS5Xeezzskyth3OiiVqvxpH7Hz9mptnCbkMW6RlM_PJOM_cPJ7ki5vPeZQcKSdm_GPuXOmZRZKX3gKiP7jPSkmH4CLJA4IOzKcpVGj-6wS2Mb0GfEObJtiThv52y4kDf8yFzvi7dVmF/s320/2.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The Scented Garden floral design has been worked previously
as a rug on 14<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>mesh canvas but in this
case Connie wanted a wall hanging so silks and floss were suitable for the
finer canvas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A photo of the 14 mesh
version is on my 2017 blog ‘The Universal Problem’.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5mXgyyLQLmFvyQF6BwyprGJvb7b0bEtxve_i5-d9dZiF95d9Ir46R-_k7p0mKg2ldTkXm4QVHPoLrZYv8PGh1vyn_IWIMS4chpBGrtEP054hOCSlFX6TP2YbQOX2JptmQjdc-_Aoli3N/s1600/3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="326" data-original-width="486" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5mXgyyLQLmFvyQF6BwyprGJvb7b0bEtxve_i5-d9dZiF95d9Ir46R-_k7p0mKg2ldTkXm4QVHPoLrZYv8PGh1vyn_IWIMS4chpBGrtEP054hOCSlFX6TP2YbQOX2JptmQjdc-_Aoli3N/s200/3.png" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Two women from Belguim have joined us for a number of years
and often bring the finished design from the last year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last year we enjoyed some Christmas scenes
Marie-Louise had done and this year Christine brought her Elderflower panel
finished as a fabric covered box top.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Fact sheets for both the Tuscany and the Calabria trips are
available, the dates in 2019 are Tuscany 28 April – 5 May;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Calabria mid September to be finalised. <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><a href="http://www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/">www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
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Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-57190245136413623822018-08-14T08:48:00.000-07:002018-08-14T08:48:21.685-07:00Scrap book Jottings<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70Fqhq4tf32pSo0NuES6WOCfZJNxWoyT3nB8uKRAUyopAue2L78f9cDuwU6SE-9LvwiJRuqi0dXwPmuh76kFnOIPKdx2eFwf69YemLMclA2emQGNcpMa3b2Cv86B75_ySCFBlMDy4moyV/s1600/poppy2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70Fqhq4tf32pSo0NuES6WOCfZJNxWoyT3nB8uKRAUyopAue2L78f9cDuwU6SE-9LvwiJRuqi0dXwPmuh76kFnOIPKdx2eFwf69YemLMclA2emQGNcpMa3b2Cv86B75_ySCFBlMDy4moyV/s320/poppy2.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">August, they say is the ‘silly month’ when editors and
journalists scrape around for news, ‘Man bit Dog’ can become front page
news!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Schools are out, Mothers seek to entertain
their children, (we used to set off on our bikes with a packed lunch, sadly not
possible in many areas now)’ Grandparents plan day outings or even spend time
with the family on a ‘bucket and spade’ holiday; Robert has taken two of my
grandchildren to Whipsnade Zoo to day and they, fortunately, couldn’t hope for
better weather.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, with, I imagine most people being bored with Brexit and
Trump I should like to share some of my thoughts with you and share the Autumn
class programme.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Firstly, and after all I am a devoted and<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>enthusiastic stitcher – what have I been
doing?<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This new technique of Shadow stitching – allowing the detail
of a hand-painted canvas to show through a ‘veil’ of lacy stitches – has
completely intrigued me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have just
completed 2 designs, an Elderflower and a Lilac each with two different borders;
having got the bug I am now working on a deep rich colour way of the Lilac
(lilac does come in such wonderful colours) and for this one I am working just
corners of 4 borders, same borders different colour schemes - so people can see
the finished effect.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidhozlx1qvCC6uSxTS2cppkuBIb6xYXTxhJs0QfE3ATpknj7-MiwjYeIoxRGmX4jULio9NR_Rj87VWKkzaZHCE5TMWibHhFrFHUDWBnH56X19oJXW0Apwi0SMTXYZhB55-c7oenW9SlLPb/s1600/flower+stitch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1556" data-original-width="1600" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidhozlx1qvCC6uSxTS2cppkuBIb6xYXTxhJs0QfE3ATpknj7-MiwjYeIoxRGmX4jULio9NR_Rj87VWKkzaZHCE5TMWibHhFrFHUDWBnH56X19oJXW0Apwi0SMTXYZhB55-c7oenW9SlLPb/s320/flower+stitch.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Recently I have had two interesting mornings exploring the
possibilities of making the canvas, white, brown, colours or sprayed part of
the finished design.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In other words
stepping back from the hand-painted designs prepared for shadow stitching (see
last blog) into less complicated – and expensive – ways of getting a new and
different feel to one’s needlepoint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>These talks have been popular so I plan to do another one, the 16</span><sup><span style="font-size: small;">th</span></sup><span style="font-size: large;">
October;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>they are free but booking is
essential as space is limited, let me know if you are interested.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will be held here in Central London.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Clothing art is always something I have been frightened off,
probably as making up stiff canvas worked panels into a full garment can be
tricky (I am not good with a sharp needle!) however staying with my step
daughter she suggested applique canvas work panels to attach to an existing
denim jacket; the garment she had in mind is a wonderful lime green and coupled
with her favourite flower – the Marguerite I am very excited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have also been able to find a company
that will make mules as well as slippers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Will keep you up to date with progress.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have even written a detective story – how ‘silly’ can that
be?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course it is to do with one of my
designs and a new student who came to class.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Will post it shortly.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1vnzPlixI1Xu05tWGM2Q7zmpzhKeYLtfNJZwwx4laiWkaVsdYj1XPuUsV5a5fER51UGCfUdhjHHyHgTplXqTzS2uPEtahF0NXo1r1_4P5rr1nxsUGs_pYt-4wKa2LqISx0WFPSLIp2YNX/s1600/colours.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1vnzPlixI1Xu05tWGM2Q7zmpzhKeYLtfNJZwwx4laiWkaVsdYj1XPuUsV5a5fER51UGCfUdhjHHyHgTplXqTzS2uPEtahF0NXo1r1_4P5rr1nxsUGs_pYt-4wKa2LqISx0WFPSLIp2YNX/s320/colours.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We still have our trip to Calabria in Southern Italy to look
forward to;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>on this trip so many of them
have been on many occasions that ‘free stitching’ is preferred.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I check with everyone that they have everything
they need stitch-wise – having just run out of a thread in the US I know how
maddening that can be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We always have
one trip during our stay, this time they have requested Reggio de Calabria to
see the Riace Bronzes sculptures; some years ago we visited these mega pieces
while they were under conservation in the laboratory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now we shall enjoy them in the museum and
see some of this coastal town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mimmo
who has always been my trusted guide on these trips always gives us a most
interesting day and an excellent lunch!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqm3GSxtVsJT8hTPmfwF7B5ofQjMOkS4O_e5QpLeoKfAwn0O18Es59RIFPEr5CCU29yCCzKPMp8AYHm6RB2h8RRY-6IOLzgrR9ZeRCWicSA70JaLBvrPCbYzTeN37wufVGadTna4DYoUGg/s1600/flower+card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="367" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqm3GSxtVsJT8hTPmfwF7B5ofQjMOkS4O_e5QpLeoKfAwn0O18Es59RIFPEr5CCU29yCCzKPMp8AYHm6RB2h8RRY-6IOLzgrR9ZeRCWicSA70JaLBvrPCbYzTeN37wufVGadTna4DYoUGg/s320/flower+card.jpg" width="215" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sound incredible early to think about our trip to Tuscany
next May, however some of you have already asked about it and I believe that
there will be ‘returners’, out of the group; this year we only had two new
girls!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Anyway I do have details if you are interested, the dates
are 28 April - 5</span><sup><span style="font-size: small;">th</span></sup><span style="font-size: large;"> May 2019; let me know if interested; with only
accommodation for seven – places go fast. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have already mentioned our trip to New Hampshire to visit
my step daughter and her family; we had a lovely time, relaxed, swimming and
with the AC even though it was as hot as London it was most comfortable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had a great visit to the Glass Flower Museum,
part of the Harvard Natural History complex just outside Boston;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a mind blowing collection of accurate
flowers, foliage and flower parts all made between 1860 and 1920s;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>each flower bud, each minute leaf or tendril
made from glass looking completely life-like.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As, in the past, I do like to share with you the exhibitions
and museums I have both been to and enjoyed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This museum – including their collection of prehistoric animals
(absolutely enormous no wonder they didn’t survive) is definitely on my list of
recommendations should you be able to get there. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In London we recently went to the Frida Kahlo exhibitor at
the V&A, largely her eccentric clothes, head pieces and jewellery;
interesting, tempted me to wear long skirts or trousers if only to disguise my
compression stockings! But not necessarily a mecca for embroidery.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You probably remember my account of our visit to the Herb
Museum in Sansepolcro in my last blog, I think it is still top of my list of
favourites.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Do you, as I try to do, keep a Travel Suggestions file, just
a record of places I hear or read about that sound of interest should we be in
the area?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘Sofa seat travelling’ with a
trawl on Google will give you a taste of the place and its collection <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">with you.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/">www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com</a></span></div>
Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-68937606854661767112018-07-03T04:03:00.000-07:002018-07-03T04:05:29.853-07:00Another wonderful trip to Tuscany<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Recently back from our third visit to Borghetto Calcinaia
following much the same programme as in our previous visits and with three new
people to join those who had been before.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuvKu27FMK7U5ifjB-sxThcBjbCbVB7eQEQAEaJtVxB_jyAOdyUF644145JLY050uL5Efzx_gsBZLd2I-FWYeoIoMJu9WCli0SI-uiIq7pdCXNjHV-9k1s77Mjc9TGcUCuLLg7-3rWwG58/s1600/IMG_0455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="1296" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuvKu27FMK7U5ifjB-sxThcBjbCbVB7eQEQAEaJtVxB_jyAOdyUF644145JLY050uL5Efzx_gsBZLd2I-FWYeoIoMJu9WCli0SI-uiIq7pdCXNjHV-9k1s77Mjc9TGcUCuLLg7-3rWwG58/s320/IMG_0455.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Special interest holidays work well, needlepoint and
stitching are no exception, all the participants have a passion in common and I
find needle pointers love flowers, gardens and visiting interesting art museums
and quaint villages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They also enjoy
their food and sampling recipes and fresh ingredients’ from the area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A win win situation.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Possibly the most important feature of the trip is the stitching
project on offer; ideally everyone working on the same design – even if some
details are adapted – works so much better with cross fertilisation of ideas
and swapping of threads.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On our
previous two visits we have worked on panels by the Del Robbia family – a
famous family of potters from the area who produced their panels in the 16
century.This year we chose the
attractive logo from the Borghetto and worked it in a mix of silks and metallic.</span></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRd9WKquaQHIkiDidrLbcOFqb2SIK9-T5IWnoQARpEow-Gpyv2eGh6QdZrp5C50knrJBM5aEGEVo1IH5JZfeSSSNptUdltvC6UBeEmbbxU3c2zZIPzv5GiEAafVj1BF9qUPGZ61aGkdy6q/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1196" data-original-width="1600" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRd9WKquaQHIkiDidrLbcOFqb2SIK9-T5IWnoQARpEow-Gpyv2eGh6QdZrp5C50knrJBM5aEGEVo1IH5JZfeSSSNptUdltvC6UBeEmbbxU3c2zZIPzv5GiEAafVj1BF9qUPGZ61aGkdy6q/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This year's project.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">So, following previous programmes we flew to Perugia
(Ryanair) though collections can be organise from other places if people wish
to add side trips before or after.<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">From the airport we were whisked off to lunch at Trattoria
da Vasco a charming rural restaurant where we sat under parasols and had a
delicious lunch; our first taste of the Italian cuisine and sunshine.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">On to the Borghetto
and our first glimpse of our good friend, the owner, Gilly Love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rooms, the garden and the welcome were
just as perfect as in previous years though very sadly her partner, Dennis whom
we all loved, passed away just before Christmas.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Great to unpack and prepare for the stitching on the Monday
morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had invited everyone to the
studio a few weeks ahead of our departure to fully discuss the project, whether
anyone wanted some alterations to the original or different threads.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My piece used a number of jewel like metallics
and I was delighted that everyone loved the ‘medieval look’ and were going to
go along with my ideas.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Sitting as we do at a large table under a pergola enjoying
natural light – we can always slip off for some sunbathing or indeed a swim in
the pool.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjcmGxKxrTLUVDQrTVNeGO4XWprOWZenf8dN0EJZgHzY-UW_E5EgKwHAc3ZSpyLCKJ-VnxEjci_KCns6wsWtJZylB4293ApbROG37AQpln9KbOwQfHfo8kmlGq1lMCm12SDQTUhX6yE_GX/s1600/IMG_0454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="1296" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjcmGxKxrTLUVDQrTVNeGO4XWprOWZenf8dN0EJZgHzY-UW_E5EgKwHAc3ZSpyLCKJ-VnxEjci_KCns6wsWtJZylB4293ApbROG37AQpln9KbOwQfHfo8kmlGq1lMCm12SDQTUhX6yE_GX/s400/IMG_0454.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Pleasant days were spent stitching with intervals for
delicious meals, local produce and Gilly’s great cooking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each evening commenced with an Aperativo
before an Antipasti, Main course and Dessert with generous wine.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhilUC8BC-hvOT9IMFlx9HwGm76rMjinvUZgtnRvG2UwHR-5KUvFBIVdRzb-R7u9X3ErcYO_ilsrzhuv4V0XL9ZZvx2Had3MjQEaAzKEo27S2ctWuHKUFSB4VrlMMQtBS6y3XXC4N5jwG0/s1600/pharmacy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1297" data-original-width="1600" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhilUC8BC-hvOT9IMFlx9HwGm76rMjinvUZgtnRvG2UwHR-5KUvFBIVdRzb-R7u9X3ErcYO_ilsrzhuv4V0XL9ZZvx2Had3MjQEaAzKEo27S2ctWuHKUFSB4VrlMMQtBS6y3XXC4N5jwG0/s320/pharmacy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ancient apothecary's shop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">On Wednesday allowing for plenty of stitching, we had our
regular visit to the walled city of Sansepolcro with its many stone built
towers and the birthplace of Piero Della Francesca with dinner afterwards at Il
Dongione Ristorante in San Giustino.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This has become a firm favourite with the group, marvellous museums, my
favourite the Aboca Museum – Herbs and Health over the centuries housed in a beautiful
seventeenth Palace; the Museo Civico with its collection of masterpieces of
della Francesca, its Cathedral (1012) with two beautifully preserved frescos
and – need I say a little window shopping if not the actual purchase of some
small mementos! </span></span></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WlB6HB-uYXiQhmt3-Y2AoYrxk-86JnmnwMrL5A7LnnpzTQDPxYg-Xo7khzSj763MKLTg7TUQTnlkIWzCSrSOK5OcqpquicnHTpZYbxRME-kiILn9ZxLMQDtf-xgb_JYPJJ0vX_Q0wHdZ/s1600/flowers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WlB6HB-uYXiQhmt3-Y2AoYrxk-86JnmnwMrL5A7LnnpzTQDPxYg-Xo7khzSj763MKLTg7TUQTnlkIWzCSrSOK5OcqpquicnHTpZYbxRME-kiILn9ZxLMQDtf-xgb_JYPJJ0vX_Q0wHdZ/s320/flowers.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I find it quite hard to prise my group away from their
stitching however again we always love a visit to Anghiari – steep streets, breath-taking
views and some interesting shops!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is
most famous for the Battle of Anghiari 1440 when the Florentines defeated the
Milanese for control of this hilltop bastion and a painting (after the event)
by Leonardo da Vinci since lost or possibly ‘overpainted’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few years ago I was fortunate to see the
annual commemoration in June of this battle with processions of the town’s
people dressed appropriately – should love to be able to include this event but
June would be too hot, May for our visit is more comfortable. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">That evening we went on the edge of town to the Zi’ Theresa
restaurant specialising in Pizza; didn’t count the endless combinations of
toppings but remember mine with artichoke hearts as being delicious!</span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigAjs5y1cuBBqrGqLYjcZbleTHb7b9oLv1vk4He5pNrYq6KmJEcDvb5DvKoWIi6cg5F8q-wiowLe09s6-RfleTttbB2YjLM3-1BU6XGaCcuytvM-D_jf51s_jXmULmmoBbJ2HGIiUNi6xq/s1600/IMG_0453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="1296" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigAjs5y1cuBBqrGqLYjcZbleTHb7b9oLv1vk4He5pNrYq6KmJEcDvb5DvKoWIi6cg5F8q-wiowLe09s6-RfleTttbB2YjLM3-1BU6XGaCcuytvM-D_jf51s_jXmULmmoBbJ2HGIiUNi6xq/s320/IMG_0453.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Well, as always our week went all too fast but good progress
had been made with the stitching project, all areas had been tackled; we had
again sampled Gilly’s menus, had some sun and culture and returned this time on
a mid-day flight with in some cases souvenirs of special cooking ingredients’
and an interesting pair of earrings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Already, before we left outline plans for May 219 was
discussed and now I have to dream up an exciting project for the design – an
initial idea I am working on is the traditional Florentine designs that were
painted by the monks for illustrated manuscripts, beautiful garlands of
flowers, foliage and often birds.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZi_cjcO2rnJq5mxU6FeQMehyphenhyphenGk6N0NZEV36uImyrz7zknrtgafOZvZOhG2omrAkfZI2wfgZj8riLU9P5TgPRzD4D36gTfFiaLVpT8Ur-ITy06oXCa6F6pdw8QHIz8z59X0W-OCwtnxan5/s1600/anna+out.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZi_cjcO2rnJq5mxU6FeQMehyphenhyphenGk6N0NZEV36uImyrz7zknrtgafOZvZOhG2omrAkfZI2wfgZj8riLU9P5TgPRzD4D36gTfFiaLVpT8Ur-ITy06oXCa6F6pdw8QHIz8z59X0W-OCwtnxan5/s320/anna+out.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;">Meanwhile there is our trip to Southern Italy in September
to look forward to, this year, our 11</span><sup><span style="font-size: small;">th</span></sup><span style="font-size: large;"> visit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Please do keep in touch if you are interested in my needle
point holidays, I should love to hear from you. <span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;">Here is me, photographed in my favourite spot when the weather is kind, to share with you my love of flowers. <a href="http://www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/">www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com</a></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-19600923585137535742018-06-18T03:04:00.004-07:002018-06-18T03:04:55.039-07:00Flowers in Needlework / Burn Incident
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I know no-one who doesn’t love flowers, the colours the
smell so little wonder, flowers have been a favourite subject with artists and
embroiderers throughout the ages.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2kCNNTsglgAXizaC-4aCHVwfpU3sP5xvZqHyxSM_FiiktXEXMkJcJfIYjSqU02sT78hyphenhyphenWBgLOzy7o3qUR1viHyYji1oAj08gLGmty85utj0lqcMCSwH3FcUjGJm7rPSgc4J5ykCcKUZD/s1600/20180618_102207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1382" data-original-width="1600" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2kCNNTsglgAXizaC-4aCHVwfpU3sP5xvZqHyxSM_FiiktXEXMkJcJfIYjSqU02sT78hyphenhyphenWBgLOzy7o3qUR1viHyYji1oAj08gLGmty85utj0lqcMCSwH3FcUjGJm7rPSgc4J5ykCcKUZD/s320/20180618_102207.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My own Boots. Purchased in Turkey.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In Elizabethan times, the English, well known for their love
of gardening, have used flowers often in a naturalistic style than most other
countries – vegetables and fruit<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>were
almost as popular.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The larger pieces
were often planned and sometimes worked by professional men but these too
frequently hade flowers and foliage as part of the design.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>My favourite reference books</strong> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em><strong>The Needleworker’s Dictionary’<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- Pamela Clabburn<o:p></o:p></strong></em></span></span></div>
<em><strong>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">‘The Embroiderer’s Flowers – Thomasina Beck.</span></span></strong></em><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In Victorian times, with the increased leisure time among
the middle classes, embroidery and watercolour painting <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>were practiced and flowers particularly
popular.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Berlin wool work designs printed,
hand coloured in the early days were worked with a special wool and sometimes
beads –illustration.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The example here is from my own collection, the design
worked entirely with glass beads on a perforated paper with an embossed
border.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The unusual frame was how I
found it and is probably the original.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSugefEIk7zwOzW94o47Csa8in5wcrCE0CPaGb9jTSm7B6J88Bl5Ph3StOGc_O7iVc_keB0WecULNKcX8_NovLpWBvp_9IrcVsrdwfOW3uX-01-nFzpBBP3i4-j8X3H5SUIb5qOXU3BJZZ/s1600/20180618_102022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1268" data-original-width="1600" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSugefEIk7zwOzW94o47Csa8in5wcrCE0CPaGb9jTSm7B6J88Bl5Ph3StOGc_O7iVc_keB0WecULNKcX8_NovLpWBvp_9IrcVsrdwfOW3uX-01-nFzpBBP3i4-j8X3H5SUIb5qOXU3BJZZ/s320/20180618_102022.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This design is featured in my book ‘<em>Traditional Needle Arts
Needlepoint</em>, has a full chart of th design and is called ‘<em>Country Bouquet’</em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">William Morris around the turn of the 19/20 century designed
wallpapers, fabrics and embroideries many designs featuring flowers, foliage
and birds.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">While I am possibly best known for geometric designs using
interesting textured stitches there has always been hand-painted flowers for
cushions, upholstery and rugs.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">One of my favourite designs is Flower Shop</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBFa_DaEcoXbGEIVWkQCkzFBB4SrkmsFbIFCLjQRaPNCl9XO_9-uHm3vhfD_F15P9Xr3dPKDhdLxikDiWr2sTh66121EdcDRTsm3dh3ol51AqtHIJeMC-DnOTs4GZEtLzn9ok9wRFHqL8/s1600/20180618_102812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1561" data-original-width="1600" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBFa_DaEcoXbGEIVWkQCkzFBB4SrkmsFbIFCLjQRaPNCl9XO_9-uHm3vhfD_F15P9Xr3dPKDhdLxikDiWr2sTh66121EdcDRTsm3dh3ol51AqtHIJeMC-DnOTs4GZEtLzn9ok9wRFHqL8/s320/20180618_102812.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Do take a look at my web particularly the Patchwork with
Iris (this can be ordered with other flowers) and the Elderflower and Lilac
designs, both worked with Shadow stitching – offered with a special Manual, the
option of two borders and stitches fully diagrammed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each if these designs introduce a whole range
of stitches that allow the painted canvas to be part of the design.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I do hope this walk through our English tradition of
enjoying flowers has encouraged you to consider your next project to be
flowers, I should love to help you.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong></strong></span></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Don’t cause a fire and burn the house down! (Part 2 of Blog)<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">One has always been told to be extremely careful with any
form of magnification, to always cover the lens over even if left for only a
short time.</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiupWwduYzxweSWb5VbmOo2WYqMg0038NJLM-B46NmLdoP_z-3kUKqs6Rif13PGv_Da22ODAC8iJpvEcTrvDiKF9NxrBAYjC2VCHBoPMPBkKdRjOWMbvZgYjbXI2y8RoItlQhEVFt6eBDjT/s1600/20180618_101019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1388" data-original-width="1600" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiupWwduYzxweSWb5VbmOo2WYqMg0038NJLM-B46NmLdoP_z-3kUKqs6Rif13PGv_Da22ODAC8iJpvEcTrvDiKF9NxrBAYjC2VCHBoPMPBkKdRjOWMbvZgYjbXI2y8RoItlQhEVFt6eBDjT/s320/20180618_101019.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I both love and need the magnification and the inbuilt light
that goes with it – in fact I have two types, the first that benefits from an
extra large lens (I can see my whole design without moving It around) and the
second that can either stand, clip on a table and uses either electricity or
batteries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first I keep in the
studio fixed permanently and travel with the other.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Most fittings of this kind are sold with some form of lens
cover, a dish or small bag but I confess if they did arrive with a suitable
cover I have mislaid them!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead I
cover them with a pillow case – if I was clever with a sharp needle or sewing
machine I would make a cotton draw string bag.</span></span></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3netG-VE_1RJwlftDiPF84a6W0L7lkoQb0SsWjM_MJMOEcZhOFelJmBJ6sDsxOuixhzaaj9Ofsy-kuVP191QqDqchGbmeDV1_POal0iuyDAapGMWhyphenhyphenGFO6J6mv_BY2-Y3SeS2BPTRefZ/s1600/20180618_100942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3netG-VE_1RJwlftDiPF84a6W0L7lkoQb0SsWjM_MJMOEcZhOFelJmBJ6sDsxOuixhzaaj9Ofsy-kuVP191QqDqchGbmeDV1_POal0iuyDAapGMWhyphenhyphenGFO6J6mv_BY2-Y3SeS2BPTRefZ/s320/20180618_100942.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Horror, horror today I found a burn hole on my current Lilac
design – I truly didn’t think the sun had been that strong but I had been
proved wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thankfully as you can see the hole was on the edge of the canvas, nowhere near the stitching but what
might have happened?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Please do learn from my almost disaster – one hears of whole
houses being burnt down – and never never leave any magnification uncovered.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>If you would like details of the two fittings I find so
good, do let me know.</em></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><a href="https://www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/"><strong>https://www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/</strong></a></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span> </div>
Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-86389726382341397012018-04-03T03:04:00.000-07:002018-04-30T02:55:11.441-07:00An exciting new look at needlepoint.<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">When searching for a title that both described a growing
trend in needlepoint design and encouraged you to read it, ‘new’ was not
perfect as ideas and techniques continue to grow and have always done so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From my own designs you will see antique
tiles, Tudor embroidery and Victorian Ladies journals have inspired me.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">My first designs that took the colour of the canvas as part
of the design many years ago was a range, the Gazebo collection, stitches <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>worked in white and ecru on antique (brown)
canvas, the individual stitches – including Skip Tent – allowing the deep shade
of canvas to offset the design.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nowadays the exciting range of coloured canvases would lend themselves
beautifully to this simple idea – oh for the time to play.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Next came two Patchwork designs, the canvas painted in a
crazy </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgFrZrQr_PcxiXR3lQ6e9DCYfSbBDlXKcSaLcm9fROUXnTLqeQOoxG6WVOrV9Ch4zfLqMsCR_F1gc70aEVbMRX-k4ct-AvxE7Wq45kz4Fj9wEXe7chHXTITp63l-tqmcb3HN8ypJU5RgX6/s1600/iris.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="833" data-original-width="602" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgFrZrQr_PcxiXR3lQ6e9DCYfSbBDlXKcSaLcm9fROUXnTLqeQOoxG6WVOrV9Ch4zfLqMsCR_F1gc70aEVbMRX-k4ct-AvxE7Wq45kz4Fj9wEXe7chHXTITp63l-tqmcb3HN8ypJU5RgX6/s200/iris.jpg" width="144" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">patchwork of colours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each area
has stitches, often old favourites in threads to compliment the painted area
below.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Either the stitches had space in
between rows, an element of the traditional stitch left out Or worked with finer
threads.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Patchwork with Iris<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> - </span><a href="http://anna-pearson-needlepoint.blogspot.co.uk/2017/11/golden-rules-for-perfect-needlepoint.html" target="_blank">Patchworkwith Initial</a> </span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAiLrge3QnDfAROMg6OaNlO28Fd7iQapMQAnzps9ZnLOm2H55Sq-VPzjhUG6LnkGA0Ksm3KjdyAtZHkhAGMPl5hLIDZE5o9cLZNOo9f0lWCf_tPBbWs3lQelZnpag3ZVFuzpPK0yMRcmZg/s1600/20180403_103920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAiLrge3QnDfAROMg6OaNlO28Fd7iQapMQAnzps9ZnLOm2H55Sq-VPzjhUG6LnkGA0Ksm3KjdyAtZHkhAGMPl5hLIDZE5o9cLZNOo9f0lWCf_tPBbWs3lQelZnpag3ZVFuzpPK0yMRcmZg/s200/20180403_103920.jpg" width="112" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Detail of stitches and the canvas left blank in between rows
or units.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The first had an iris painted in detail and surrounded by panels
of colour that complimented the shades in the flower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The second with instructions for an initial or monogram of
one’s choice is popular;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>as a custom
order favourite colours can be incorporated or non favourites left out!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">When working the Iris design, (it could be a tulip or any
other single flower), I decided that the detail of the flower was so perfect
that basket weave tent with silks or floss was the best solution.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With the initial I selected metallic for the
letter however other less flamboyant threads have been used successfully.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Both these designs will soon be
available on our web and small quantities of thread can be used or specially
purchased. For individual schemes please contact Anna.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Moving on we come to Shadow stitching, the techniques I am really
excited about and still experimenting with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Shadow stitching allows the hand painted canvas to show through any
stitching and become part of the shaded web of stitches. By using a thinner
thread or less ply the stitch combines with the painted design below.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A design can be done entirely in shadow
stitches or mixed with traditional tent stitch (like the Iris above) or with
some stitchery; all work well and are fun to do.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">My first two designs were interpretations of Del Robbia
panels for my <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUgAthEy2nr_sahGzItLc6AhAf3Fopgv6lfl81mq8C7GvdUwjI6DE4PGEqzyhZ6WD0Or2YYOKRcz1EsDNxGAnZEvf8fCBcGY9jt0jQ0IZV0QnxoJzBqauacXlD5qUyjO8JeP_zD1ap7oR6/s1600/Arte_Lana_Della_Robbia_OPA_Florence.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUgAthEy2nr_sahGzItLc6AhAf3Fopgv6lfl81mq8C7GvdUwjI6DE4PGEqzyhZ6WD0Or2YYOKRcz1EsDNxGAnZEvf8fCBcGY9jt0jQ0IZV0QnxoJzBqauacXlD5qUyjO8JeP_zD1ap7oR6/s200/Arte_Lana_Della_Robbia_OPA_Florence.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original panel used an inspiration.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
annual stitching holidays in Tuscany.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perfect as the Del Robbia family lived in the
same area as we visit in the 1500. However if the Wreaths had been worked in
basketweave tent it would have taken the students many hours of working the
shading in literately tens of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>different
shades, probably the entire trip and not allowed time for the central motifs or
fruit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all enjoyed the new
experience, the relative speed and the effect!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Flowers are always a firm favourite and lend themselves to
this technique so Elderflowers and Lilac are two of my recent designs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
two flowers make a great pair and there are two different borders to chose
between.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The leaves are shadow stitched, the flower head covered with
Skip Tent and then various decorative stitches are worked on top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are full details of a number of
backgrounds suggested and many others, particularly Patterned Darning patterns
could be tried.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">These two designs with
all the threads and Border of your choice are on our web site.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When purchasing your first canvas (special
savings if you order an Elderflower and Lilac at the same time) there is an
excellent manual with all the special techniques and a wide selection of suitable
stitches<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">If like me you get the bug and have done at least one of the
above flowers almost any painted canvas can be worked in the same fashion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Students have done the pair of Passion
Flowers applying similar ideas.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-dMc5R9zWqMj2ODYn8eGnf69TwW2Dic5__jF5Plninox3zqoNxay054ms3DvEqAReO-nadwsE01yfgDX77EpttlPs7yr1Z5vrUak3UEGOzEvlfiiDMVsxRQBxTD7S9rkdJngkgjO0qL6/s1600/20180403_103548.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1186" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-dMc5R9zWqMj2ODYn8eGnf69TwW2Dic5__jF5Plninox3zqoNxay054ms3DvEqAReO-nadwsE01yfgDX77EpttlPs7yr1Z5vrUak3UEGOzEvlfiiDMVsxRQBxTD7S9rkdJngkgjO0qL6/s320/20180403_103548.jpg" width="237" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">At present I am working a detailed scene adapted from an
original painting (with the artist’s permission of course) of ‘Basket Makers of
Road Town’ sitting outside their home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jill Tattersall, the artist, arrived in Tortola BVIs with her family,
husband, three children and a cat in 1965 and more recently painted a series
based on her memories of how the island was when they first got there.<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The other great friend and long-time inspiration is Dede
Ogden; we have known each other for many years indeed I wrote quite a chunk of ‘The
Complete Needlepoint Course’ sitting in her kitchen in San Francisco.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was her painted canvases shadow stitched
that I saw when with her two years ago that fired my desire to try for myself –
thank you so much Dede.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Books mentioned<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Memories of the British Virgin Islands;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jill Tattersall<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Besides
lovely colour plates of her paintings there is the almost unbelievable story of
the families’ journey to the island.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sadly out of print but should you see one grab it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Have just heard that there may be a top quality
paper back in the future;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>let me know if
interested so I can pass on your details;<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">That’s Not Needlepoint; <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(It’s inspired Art Created with your needle)<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Dede Ogden<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">self published with stitches and
thread suggestions for some of her paintedcanvases that can be ordered.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><a href="http://www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/"><span style="color: #b33a0d;">www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com</span></a><o:p></o:p></span> Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-35130275055799713392018-01-10T04:35:00.000-08:002018-01-10T04:38:17.574-08:00Loose Ends<span style="font-family: "calibri";">A very Happy New year to every one; let’s hope that we all
enjoy good health and success in 2018<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMS4XZGNygQAs52Q2sHq4wesySPx85VxysnaBL2M68jALjXXmJTZT4L-eppzVBg2j1nb0AYbp5lLLD8tgQ6YzmUrrnMa4EMMhOQxVk-ZMbBZeypq4extimb2IAEot9gG-i1jXcYUaavSS8/s1600/panel+2+B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMS4XZGNygQAs52Q2sHq4wesySPx85VxysnaBL2M68jALjXXmJTZT4L-eppzVBg2j1nb0AYbp5lLLD8tgQ6YzmUrrnMa4EMMhOQxVk-ZMbBZeypq4extimb2IAEot9gG-i1jXcYUaavSS8/s200/panel+2+B.JPG" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Having just had a lovely family Christmas with my daughter
in France (freezing and cold outside but log fires and warming food in) I have
taken stock of projects, ideas and goals that have, for whatever reason not been
done in 2017.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not that I wasn’t
stitching when even possible but there was no telephone, doorbell or email essential
to respond to.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">A response we had from a recent article was from an American
now living in London whose step-grandmother worked the most amazing three fold
screen during the Second World War.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
theme was Alice in Wonderland and one can see from these illustrations the Mad
Hatters’ Tea Party, Alice and the Queen with the Jam Tarts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortunately the stitcher’s initials and the
date 1944 are visible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The lady was
obviously a proficient stitcher as among the photographs I was also sent a
French style Berger chair and a round cushion with flowers and a humming
bird.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I believe that all these designs
were the stitcher’s own ideas, should any be recognised as commercially
available, please accept my apologies, with the distance of time it is
virtually impossible to check.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsJwtF4xpcFMxoWSzbF2Ld2KUdmc3aoae7YQdyc0rqdFv8tma1gULRKzqXmvJFWrHm6xxTNGUsiUxDtvo2jCP0yJ3iKXUpKk8tAf6Qj7CIEEerT-g610JDnZNGp-vvOpj_HPi7ZvCv3F_/s1600/panel+3+C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsJwtF4xpcFMxoWSzbF2Ld2KUdmc3aoae7YQdyc0rqdFv8tma1gULRKzqXmvJFWrHm6xxTNGUsiUxDtvo2jCP0yJ3iKXUpKk8tAf6Qj7CIEEerT-g610JDnZNGp-vvOpj_HPi7ZvCv3F_/s200/panel+3+C.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The other information I try to give is for museums,
up-coming exhibitions or events that may well be of interest to you my fellow
stitchers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The V & A has an
exhibition ‘English Needlework, May Morris’</b> a two day class on 26 & 27
January; booking on line at their web site.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Wish I could go but sadly already busy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmiAeZa9JSUIPCFwHHuNQJ-9QsGA2-S06td6Q4jyMlr6U1oWPqfn4qqZ6H6Sosn1lNd8wzGiVBAPlNZy2r7zkKxzIDz3sSsdRbUwE2XSZo14zVmD015lcwwaa5qpXlpRaK4U3yEttjrPpz/s1600/b076a2fdfa1955cab3efc1e6e6f11d33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="669" data-original-width="1024" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmiAeZa9JSUIPCFwHHuNQJ-9QsGA2-S06td6Q4jyMlr6U1oWPqfn4qqZ6H6Sosn1lNd8wzGiVBAPlNZy2r7zkKxzIDz3sSsdRbUwE2XSZo14zVmD015lcwwaa5qpXlpRaK4U3yEttjrPpz/s320/b076a2fdfa1955cab3efc1e6e6f11d33.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Cite Internationale
de la Tapisserie Aubusson – The Nave of Tapestries</b> – My daughter lives
quite close to Aubusson (closest airport Limoges and new destination Brives)
and I have been fortunate to visit this collection twice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First when she moved there about 10 years
ago and just this month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a
transformation, interesting then but now a truly mind blowing experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A new beautifully custom designed building,
a staggering collection of tapestries dating as early as the 15 century well
hung and on a complete floor, displays, explanations of the various techniques <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and materials, a small display of world tapestries
and a teaching facility that, unfortunately we did not have time to explore. Oh
to have the opportunity to visit that department – another time I hope. Finally
be sure to pick up the excellent guide (available too in English) that has
great explanations.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">This brings me on to an upcoming exhibition at the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://courtauld.ac.uk/gallery/what-on/exhibitions-displays/antoine-caron" target="_blank">Courtauld Gallery</a></b> that would augment
the Aubusson collection. ‘<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://courtauld.ac.uk/gallery/what-on/exhibitions-displays/antoine-caron" target="_blank">Drawings for Catherine de Medici</a></b>.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAgYP6PDnE09vxtZeuJ4rTvBTBpX2NYfoP4GgP4ts18eThLoW9iOexyzj8mCML__I9FhrP7F5Hola7AV31cN5N8t9ITAtXJ-e4bcZNBazybodMtsPZey0jboxlhsq2BiTGOdsIN2XOUsYH/s1600/whole+screen.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAgYP6PDnE09vxtZeuJ4rTvBTBpX2NYfoP4GgP4ts18eThLoW9iOexyzj8mCML__I9FhrP7F5Hola7AV31cN5N8t9ITAtXJ-e4bcZNBazybodMtsPZey0jboxlhsq2BiTGOdsIN2XOUsYH/s200/whole+screen.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "calibri";">This is a Collection of artists’ drawings prepared for
tapestry designs that could be woven at an atelier such as those in Aubusson
and the towns close by.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the guide
already mentioned many of the tapestries list the original artist whose
drawings/paintings were the inspiration for that tapestry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately, checking through few of the
artists of that period were known – it was in the later 19 and 20<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup>
century that these records were kept.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wouldn’t it be wonderful linking this London exhibition to the museum in
Aubusson that some extra provenance could be discovered?</span></span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljRmgHglzfv8yUyBv7yFNpj41I39jBowuIh1YyOaOAZsSTUL17l0tGQVvkdXeeCrlVb33XVCCBoAF9LAyRwVWfXWYIt5M8lRZiEl1UHd9KAmBm7wXoa-6sDwSIGL9OUUTjQRXYvKIVbrR/s1600/panel+3+D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljRmgHglzfv8yUyBv7yFNpj41I39jBowuIh1YyOaOAZsSTUL17l0tGQVvkdXeeCrlVb33XVCCBoAF9LAyRwVWfXWYIt5M8lRZiEl1UHd9KAmBm7wXoa-6sDwSIGL9OUUTjQRXYvKIVbrR/s200/panel+3+D.JPG" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: "calibri";">This exhibition runs 18 January to 15<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> April and
details can be found <a href="https://courtauld.ac.uk/gallery/what-on/exhibitions-displays/antoine-caron" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">My next blog will be out shortly and concentrates on a ‘New
Look at Needlepoint’;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>recently I am just
so excited about ‘shadow stitching’ lacy stitches that allow painted designs
show through;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am delaying the final
words till I finish a project that is to offered in Tuscany (May 2018) that
employs the technique among others.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Did you have the opportunity of reading the Golden Rules of
Needlepoint I posted in November; many of you let me know they really did find
it helpful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Might I suggest you check it
out?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">S<span style="font-family: "calibri";">pecial Thanks to the Gilmour's for their Alice photographs.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><a href="http://www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/">www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com</a><o:p></o:p></span>Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-15962773780860117882017-11-14T03:29:00.000-08:002017-11-14T03:29:10.388-08:00 Golden Rules for perfect needlepoint<br />
<span data-dobid="hdw"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">The many helpful tips one picks up on class, swapping ideas with groups of fellow stitchers or from the many excellent books on the subject cover a great deal; starting and finishing a thread, clean and dirty holes, using the right ply after stripping it to mention just a few.</span></span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: medium;"> </span><br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"> I could go on all day however I realised recently that there are some ‘rules’ that are applicable to all needlepoint, Florentine, Stitchery, Shadow stitching and even pieces worked entirely in Basket weave tent stitch.</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">So to share my ‘golden rules’ with you</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Choose your design with care </span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">because you love it</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qMHH2dgDeWbHpsauKO5U3GVu-WXv6GS9TbwE4YTEAYlpKB7VNfszV-hM-dHBZkJc3zo5GoSbFt5_dLETabovLt4DgnkgXpy6e-lpEuWPLNT2EVWLhyHmev0nWgdCvrZsqGQX43G0VkL0/s1600/20171114_110539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1481" data-original-width="1600" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qMHH2dgDeWbHpsauKO5U3GVu-WXv6GS9TbwE4YTEAYlpKB7VNfszV-hM-dHBZkJc3zo5GoSbFt5_dLETabovLt4DgnkgXpy6e-lpEuWPLNT2EVWLhyHmev0nWgdCvrZsqGQX43G0VkL0/s200/20171114_110539.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">because it has good quality materials, even weave canvas, interesting threads and where necessary clear instructions . </span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">because It doesn’t work the design in ‘half cross stitch' which will distort the canvas and not give good weave. Similarly, should you work areas with basket weave (diagonal tent) there will not be sufficient thread.</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">because, even though you love the design you don’t like the colour schemes offered or the mesh provided, is the supplier able to change them for you?</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">For a complicated design (possibly a group of your favourite flowers to fit a specific place) it may well be wise to have – and pay for – a full size drawing of what the artist believes is your wish; this could be full colour or just a line drawing. </span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Because you know of someone to make it up well when finished – your shop or teacher may well have suggestions. I know I never design something without a good finisher in mind.</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">While working the design</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Marking the centre and all four sides of the canvas with thread – important as heavy pencil marks might show through eventual stitching and the central marks on the edge of the canvas will prove most helpful should you decide on a Border.</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">If order of work is suggested follow it; most likely the piece has been test stitched and the person(s) have worked out the best order to work it.</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Read notes for any threads you haven’t worked with before</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Work on a frame</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Start threads in the direction of the work and finish threads generously, nothing is more frustrating that threads popping out of a finished piece. Take extra care if strong colour mixes are used eg black and white OR a lacy background is planned.</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Having it made up</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">You already know of a reputable person/company (see above) who will do justice to your piece as a further investment of your time.</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9tHzvafRGyxNncJTwk5TWGLrHtnR4YSE6l8e-3KQWHTmQUvkdwPHt7OTOaFZnw1-juWD7EwYqJFR0SInw_yFdwfbURhkioj8hWIcC9iJuWU_iEvG3oc6fwWC-xK4hUSykJI2n7s-fH7jP/s1600/20171114_111134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1047" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9tHzvafRGyxNncJTwk5TWGLrHtnR4YSE6l8e-3KQWHTmQUvkdwPHt7OTOaFZnw1-juWD7EwYqJFR0SInw_yFdwfbURhkioj8hWIcC9iJuWU_iEvG3oc6fwWC-xK4hUSykJI2n7s-fH7jP/s200/20171114_111134.jpg" width="130" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Most maker-ups will have examples of finishing, framing etc to show you however for something unusual a photograph will give a clear idea of what you hope to achieve. With my Vide Poche I both had a photo of examples, although in porcelain, gave a clear idea and I went to my framer on three occasions to discuss how he would like me to prepare it for him</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Two points often forgotten</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Any piece to be made up as a knife edge cushion, even with a cord or fringe, should have at least two rows of Continental Tent around to allow for turnings.</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Always check the state of the upholstery on chairs or stools; if extra padding is needed allow the extra canvas and stitched area to have this done before the completed piece is fixed. The needlepoint will give pleasure for probably longer than a fabric but doesn’t benefit from saggy seats!</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Both the tartan and the monogram and cockerel are stitched. </span></div>
</span>Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-82124512619550092602017-10-05T04:08:00.000-07:002017-10-05T04:08:37.119-07:00Practical and Decorative Needlepoint<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">I love sayings and one by William Morris has always been one
of my favourites ’Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful
or believe to be beautiful’.</span></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Another l saw and adapted was ‘Stitching makes a house into
a home’</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">With the start of Autumn, leaves falling, the clock going
back at the end of the month (at least in the UK) now is the time to think of
needlepoint projects for the winter evenings.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">For many years I was a consultant decorator mainly working
with private clients on their homes so I am very aware that your stitchery
should enhance, add character and work best for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all know that beautiful stitchery takes
time and when done deserves the best possible making up.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Before suggesting an idea I always research a reliable maker
up;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please do the same – I can and do
have pieces returned from both the US and European countries but having a
finisher that you can discuss ideas with is best. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">So to go back to William Morris’s quote I have listed (and
in most cases illustrated) the pieces I have stitched and still give me joy.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGyQmHL-vE7cwso22iFZgSeyaZBnBsyjECm_FrCTmQo0YQa1WCxBHkcKsf7YheQ-5kS8nkECR0X0mTT0uADXfL3DDrSfbeUTtrn3XrDk2U0cav4wy71WcWa6q4QbN7FjwWErqOOpej7OJ/s1600/IMG_0476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGyQmHL-vE7cwso22iFZgSeyaZBnBsyjECm_FrCTmQo0YQa1WCxBHkcKsf7YheQ-5kS8nkECR0X0mTT0uADXfL3DDrSfbeUTtrn3XrDk2U0cav4wy71WcWa6q4QbN7FjwWErqOOpej7OJ/s200/IMG_0476.JPG" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cushions are both popular, not too large and transform a
room be it an elegant living room, a family study or a bedroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes like in this four-poster bed, just
two cushions set again the plain linen makes a great focal point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are two different designs, Tudor and
Aleppo but worked in a similar colour scheme.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Similarly the central one is a tartan and either side are two different
designs but worked in the same colours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpvLn53j6-KmnZ4Gq1QtpqMBWSwX5mviDIZFp4fegxoJthQz2FkcgkS2vWuguRVCKgICzbjBqBVTRPIh6STjC9XStLMClVyh7ecpAIe3_NWktSfzyUpZDdrOdj5hCRSfHiwR9Tm5dc81Yv/s1600/20171005_114823.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1305" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpvLn53j6-KmnZ4Gq1QtpqMBWSwX5mviDIZFp4fegxoJthQz2FkcgkS2vWuguRVCKgICzbjBqBVTRPIh6STjC9XStLMClVyh7ecpAIe3_NWktSfzyUpZDdrOdj5hCRSfHiwR9Tm5dc81Yv/s200/20171005_114823.jpg" width="163" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><span style="font-size: large;">There is also a wall hanging I made inspired by a David Hockney painting
– we had a period out of our house while some essential work was done and I
took the opportunity of working a larger piece.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Looking in good decorating magazines will show patterned
cushions off set by larger plain ones – this often works better than a heap of
different patterns thrown apparently at random on a sofa or bed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZ6qcXUYdlM_8CJNEaQ-KEM0vvD_LOig-EzzFm7SxTC2m0z7Af8INsBaFBxx7IPBC94zvRY7bT14LfF2X77hwtCtP0cZ-jpQyI8nNxrJxyWm_Tw0iG3MDDBM6fjwCekkAxfts2Fjde5gI/s1600/IMG_0534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZ6qcXUYdlM_8CJNEaQ-KEM0vvD_LOig-EzzFm7SxTC2m0z7Af8INsBaFBxx7IPBC94zvRY7bT14LfF2X77hwtCtP0cZ-jpQyI8nNxrJxyWm_Tw0iG3MDDBM6fjwCekkAxfts2Fjde5gI/s200/IMG_0534.JPG" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Dining chair seats are an exciting project to consider; chairs
with a drop in seat (with the wood frame on view) need fair less stitching than
those with an upholstered over seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There is no need for all chairs to be identical; mine are worked in
diamond shaped diaper patterns, a pair in each design. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Similarly<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>a stitcher can complete a seat as any variation in tension will not show
from one chair to another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have a
booklet with all the 6 designs and charts.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Another lovely set we painted for a lady with a conservatory
dining room was 5 different bunches of poppies – sadly, while we could repeat
the designs I omitted to photograph the stitched pieces.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Smaller items such as trays are always useful – make a
lovely present too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This one shows the
Mill I used to live in in Norfolk, some of you might have visited me
there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A lovely reminder of that period.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQZi8bmnYx4ya9Omle2DX-baSR7u5wPquaLUHdFcaWiUW8Q53Sy8MPcyuKD5PiweWzZFLYhudik_vo066O2g98o1Wrq3fon4lIkGjTc36wpNLNVPBVDbgHK931ZqGZ3W0N8nyBTgLczQ5d/s1600/IMG_0549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQZi8bmnYx4ya9Omle2DX-baSR7u5wPquaLUHdFcaWiUW8Q53Sy8MPcyuKD5PiweWzZFLYhudik_vo066O2g98o1Wrq3fon4lIkGjTc36wpNLNVPBVDbgHK931ZqGZ3W0N8nyBTgLczQ5d/s200/IMG_0549.JPG" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now if you are considering a truly magnificent piece a rug
or wall hanging is for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Planning is
very, very important (always important but even more so with such a large
project)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first of many questions to
ask is the size, make yourself a paper template and place it where you have in
mind for the finished piece, does it balance the furniture, fireplace or area
available well?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Do you want to have a painted canvas, possibly with flowers
you love?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are a number of
beautiful ones ready painted but you may wish to have particular flowers done
especially. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you discuss details and
possibly have an initial drawing made incorporating your ideas.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">What mesh canvas do you enjoy, what mesh give the necessary
detail and what mesh will will give good wear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Would a repeating motif or a Florentine pattern work well?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Probably less expensive working from charts
rather than having a design painted – however, Florentine will wear less well,
it depends on the traffic area you have in mind.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">I always recommend the design on one piece of canvas;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>individual squares to be joined after the
stitching is complete sounds attractive but should you go that way <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>it is essential that each piece is off the
same roll of canvas and worked in the same direction (The measure of say 100
threads horizontally may well be different to 100 threads vertically)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Is it fact going to be on the floor, on a fitted carpet or
wood block or have you a suitable wall that would benefit from a wall
hanging.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This decision will help you decide
on stitches to use<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basket weave tent
and divisible wools will give the best wear and so a sensible choice for a
floor rug, textured stitchery and possibly some silks or cottons would make a
wall hanging interesting both to work and when finished. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz48tskVR9jJ4AeMkSEJriRWNX-6lFh9SVgNOIq-rsShrSk0waOgM6FE1a1ub8PSmf3A0z2UJGx5zfeZovDS_9WAFL8twHN5KNf8asPDENKBUbTV3tDc5MCBmqBH-xjECYyo49rhSiYcUu/s1600/IMG_0561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1362" data-original-width="1600" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz48tskVR9jJ4AeMkSEJriRWNX-6lFh9SVgNOIq-rsShrSk0waOgM6FE1a1ub8PSmf3A0z2UJGx5zfeZovDS_9WAFL8twHN5KNf8asPDENKBUbTV3tDc5MCBmqBH-xjECYyo49rhSiYcUu/s200/IMG_0561.JPG" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Framed Pictures are also popular particularly for delicate subjects;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have collected some lovely Berlin Wool Work
charts over the years so have a group of them including some of my own work
such as the Flower Shop (I prefer not to glaze my work)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Recently<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have been captivated by Shadow or Light stitching when the detail of
the original painting shows through a light fine stitching that enhances the
piece – these designs will make great pictures or wall hangings. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Then there is always the need for smaller, easier pieces to
work when traveling or when you need a piece to curl up and relax with!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEb5PTITr6qRVwVlsoTjP96ryyqWlTFB0AFBBdD6R3xMbo7UH868axnxjBfJunXo9Cg40oIXdxUlnd0cmxLmoBw02xYL4YzKmt7FJ5yuTrq-RHZ_FH7MpoiR8SnD802YypzxAYQI9Jm0Qm/s1600/20170811_113024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1592" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEb5PTITr6qRVwVlsoTjP96ryyqWlTFB0AFBBdD6R3xMbo7UH868axnxjBfJunXo9Cg40oIXdxUlnd0cmxLmoBw02xYL4YzKmt7FJ5yuTrq-RHZ_FH7MpoiR8SnD802YypzxAYQI9Jm0Qm/s200/20170811_113024.jpg" width="198" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">To this end I have designed a number of designs that come
with canvas and instructions but only suggestions for threads.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many of them have small areas, perfect for
using up even the smallest amount of thread.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>To illustrate just a few, the Kaleiscope Spec Case can be slipped into
your travel bag and in different colours makes great sun glass cases or
stronger specs for stitching (perfect presents too), Stitch Fantasy with more
than 25 stitches to try and the Diamond iPad slip cover to protect your iPad. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">I do hope this has given you some ideas for future stitching
either by yourself or, better still and far more fun, joining a class or group
of like-minded people to stitch together , swop notes and tips and generally
put the world to rights – it’s not called stitch and bitch for nothing!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">My web site…….. has some of my designs and is updated when
new designs come on line, my class programme here in London and dates for my
two Italian trips next year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tuscany
is already full.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-60531237070311265902017-08-04T03:41:00.000-07:002017-11-14T02:42:59.657-08:00THE UNIVERSAL PROBLEM<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I believe
that the vast majority of needle pointers have an ever growing stash of threads;
at least that is what I am told by all my students. Sometimes it is small quantities left over
from a project, sometimes it is a thread that inspired them to buy it but they have
never found a place to use it.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPlm8CO_vPfSd_pYEiV1nPUIerMAsO6vjLBHqYi1tOhxDVCZtTc5Di_AfbDlXt3BRm40Ab4WE57OCOKpRw71Jb0KTwtjZ5qwky8Rmydo7yyUGTfO_w39vpYKv9iAWpJyg0ZebnWW-XfXPf/s1600/20170804_112535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1166" data-original-width="1600" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPlm8CO_vPfSd_pYEiV1nPUIerMAsO6vjLBHqYi1tOhxDVCZtTc5Di_AfbDlXt3BRm40Ab4WE57OCOKpRw71Jb0KTwtjZ5qwky8Rmydo7yyUGTfO_w39vpYKv9iAWpJyg0ZebnWW-XfXPf/s200/20170804_112535.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">For this
reason I have designed a number of projects where these threads can be used to
great advantage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just the other day one
of my students told me that she was working the painted rug, The Scented Garden
(34 x 46 inches) without buying a single thread.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">One point I
should make is the background, on a large project such as this it is important
to have sufficient thread of the same dye lot to complete the work – this
stitcher has calculated that she does have sufficient.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">So, what are
the other projects that lend themselves to this halo burnishing exercise?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB0RkoIIy7WIH9HUBNPrYRzONJV1eEKGLdzkwkhLDsbKKof4regZPdKd3k4nI8VdspUkMipzYG9ahKdyzRvSxEmfr6MEeetz5d28BnARKlNI5eORHkQsdmuOkt5YVGmjAW73MeeNKEe9zP/s1600/DSC01266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1485" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB0RkoIIy7WIH9HUBNPrYRzONJV1eEKGLdzkwkhLDsbKKof4regZPdKd3k4nI8VdspUkMipzYG9ahKdyzRvSxEmfr6MEeetz5d28BnARKlNI5eORHkQsdmuOkt5YVGmjAW73MeeNKEe9zP/s200/DSC01266.JPG" width="185" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">There are
really small projects such as spec cases, one kit we do is Kaleidoscope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lots have been made as good
traveling/holiday projects and I myself have made three, one narrow one in
muted colours for my fine stitching glasses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Another, again on 18 mesh, for my everyday use and yet a third, larger
on 14 mesh in bright colours for sun glasses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Shown here is a group with the central one in purples, pinks and yellow
– cotton threads I was tempted by in Guatemala but when home couldn’t think of
a single thing to do with them!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Pincushions,
needle cases, Kindle covers and iPads are also good projects to use up threads
– do measure Kindles and iPads as they can vary from model to model.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoUiFiAJ-KBEMxU1SMfcCbyWEAEp9DAoNcRP2aK_9y1idoXGYG1g0-pOt97Hu_AOf0dpTZRTihsVrv1FC_WV1FOUnU0xyZD2-g8lqqCKHrq6pLMVSNl5C6GoVGdZmU6Gm0Z9lp2cva_lR2/s1600/Stitch+Fantasy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="523" data-original-width="516" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoUiFiAJ-KBEMxU1SMfcCbyWEAEp9DAoNcRP2aK_9y1idoXGYG1g0-pOt97Hu_AOf0dpTZRTihsVrv1FC_WV1FOUnU0xyZD2-g8lqqCKHrq6pLMVSNl5C6GoVGdZmU6Gm0Z9lp2cva_lR2/s200/Stitch+Fantasy.jpg" width="196" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Other
designs have good selections of textured stitches, fun to work and besides all
else form a good record of new stitches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stitch Fantasy is a small panel that has more than 25 different stitches
diagrammed and can be ordered on either 14 or 18 mesh canvas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I recommend taking the 14 mesh if you plan
working it in wools and 18 mesh for floss and silks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">All these
designs are suitable for those of you who haven’t done much needlepoint or
simply wish for a straight forward stitching experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The ‘vide
poche’ empty your pockets has around 20 or more patterns diagrammed for the
Border and, being small areas, truly small quantities of thread can be used. The
origin of this item was for gentlemen to empty their pockets of any coins
before they retired for the night – however it is also a useful item by the
entrance door for safe keeping of keys – never to be mislaid again!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One lady I know is planning a pretty scheme
to keep her jewellery over night!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg1o42n4wKW-vmKmbr2XQWo1s_HuINv2nwKnZGkxFf9-Y_F6Ibv6kSclaz0ThsTuPThPCxkqEKaZ_UQisMDsDkZrKss1wR_Wdw3_u_OJlpHRYHe7Pz0VdeE36LvMeR8zEnoQbWYU5W_Ugg/s1600/Diamond.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1149" data-original-width="1408" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg1o42n4wKW-vmKmbr2XQWo1s_HuINv2nwKnZGkxFf9-Y_F6Ibv6kSclaz0ThsTuPThPCxkqEKaZ_UQisMDsDkZrKss1wR_Wdw3_u_OJlpHRYHe7Pz0VdeE36LvMeR8zEnoQbWYU5W_Ugg/s200/Diamond.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The two
hand-painted canvases the Rhino (inspired by a Durer woodcut 1515) and the
Elephant, (Indian of about the same period) both have threads for the animal
but leave the individual to use their own threads to follow the Border
instructions where all the patterns are explained and diagrammed fully.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Three words
of warning – all threads are perfect, crewel wools, floss, perle and over dyes
but NOT tapestry wools especially if following my stitch plans<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-IZGTfAbVMG9uLxItP8jr4eHAhwaoireSi6bDTuGb9zT4tZw4KNkZNqry6AcivCXG6MoaeCRvMFYIkKl9OISf3LKWKDAmkZWcrnNSLRBi9DWWK4SXwdUarDn2mR9eNt-iJv_Vq1FzyfLm/s1600/overdyed-embroidery-thread-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-IZGTfAbVMG9uLxItP8jr4eHAhwaoireSi6bDTuGb9zT4tZw4KNkZNqry6AcivCXG6MoaeCRvMFYIkKl9OISf3LKWKDAmkZWcrnNSLRBi9DWWK4SXwdUarDn2mR9eNt-iJv_Vq1FzyfLm/s200/overdyed-embroidery-thread-01.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo & Threads by Lorraine <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lorraine17">www.etsy.com/shop/lorraine17</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Second,
should you take one of the kits that come complete with threads but you wish to
work it in your own scheme try and substitute wool for wool, floss for floss
etc to get the same effect..</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Third,
already mentioned, for a large area of one colour, do check you have sufficient
to complete it from one dye lot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
this instance it may be worth buying a fresh lot of the right quantity!</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I hope this
has given you some idea to cope with this universal problem, do let me know of
any ideas you have for reducing your own stash!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><o:p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/needlepointtapestry/">https://www.facebook.com/needlepointtapestry/</a></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><o:p><a href="http://www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/">http://www.anna-needlepoint-pearson.com/</a></o:p></span></span></div>
Anna Pearson's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10758892449476924748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231299016183463331.post-13714266856610237512017-06-12T04:08:00.001-07:002017-06-12T04:08:41.127-07:00Our Italian Adventure 2017
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our trip to
Tuscany was fabulous, just as much fun stitching as our previous visit and
interest in wonderful places that they had organised for us to go.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihc0lGzz_o8fpphAaZGKtH7HqnZbONYAa4foGQiwAlozqvNqB-_nRLTol-A76kR8egpmUM-kIJdmrfIDfm_RtO5X7_gBQS95gVCkXFiX5KYvztVbnpzDJlliEpJgwERsbJMdauEySil95A/s1600/DSC01020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1097" data-original-width="1600" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihc0lGzz_o8fpphAaZGKtH7HqnZbONYAa4foGQiwAlozqvNqB-_nRLTol-A76kR8egpmUM-kIJdmrfIDfm_RtO5X7_gBQS95gVCkXFiX5KYvztVbnpzDJlliEpJgwERsbJMdauEySil95A/s200/DSC01020.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">However,
before I tell you, and hopefully tempt you to join us next year (we are working
on dates around the end of April 2018) I must refer back to my last blog with
tips for travel and mention some important items I forgot –<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When taking
a floor frame (the Lowery is my favourite) do take the Allen key to help re-assemble
it on arrival.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before leaving home it
is also a good moment to put a little Vaseline on all the screws; (this is
recommended and makes swivelling to get to the back for finishing off much
easier)<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When taking
any magnification be sure to have some cover for the lens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some models have a ‘bag’ or metal disc but
these strong magnifiers can easily cause a fire – even for short periods like a
quick lunch!<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, I do
hope you found all these tips useful and I am sure that you have some of your
own – please do share them with us, I should love to hear from you and pass
them on, with your permission, in a future blog.</span></span><br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwA6Qzt84sIUrmW-mvOupuFw5jtzNAZ7OfjQ73T1ekVmdLnuCRLSa16UJFFjaR9ZpssT4sp7oK4XX1tRwXNID0EqzkQiX4Oem6DqClWwKDYzwGO-T04XAtlruRGNzLQ4LMgw52SRLub7lI/s1600/untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwA6Qzt84sIUrmW-mvOupuFw5jtzNAZ7OfjQ73T1ekVmdLnuCRLSa16UJFFjaR9ZpssT4sp7oK4XX1tRwXNID0EqzkQiX4Oem6DqClWwKDYzwGO-T04XAtlruRGNzLQ4LMgw52SRLub7lI/s200/untitled.png" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So back to
our trip, we went by Ryanair to Perugia (pickup is included both from the
airport there or the railway station at Arezzo (excellent trains to destinations
like Rome and Florence).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was an
early start but means having a wonderful lunch in a very special restaurant in
the forest – one of those places one would never find by oneself and a true
Italian experience!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDV7TIz0XOnFDhe8XbyYarIpt-8deud8AWegaAK_5A6jON-zuuzyZUwLNexS9opXK37iYeyeR1AKMv1r226iK9aYYszFlmVVwx21PABhxfMwHgSPqGk5Is_biMu1BjtQbfeSXxvjN_nhlE/s1600/IMG_0490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="1296" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDV7TIz0XOnFDhe8XbyYarIpt-8deud8AWegaAK_5A6jON-zuuzyZUwLNexS9opXK37iYeyeR1AKMv1r226iK9aYYszFlmVVwx21PABhxfMwHgSPqGk5Is_biMu1BjtQbfeSXxvjN_nhlE/s200/IMG_0490.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Then on to
Borghetto Calcinaia to unpack, unwind and catch up with Gilly & Dennis’s
news, even a swim for relaxation in the heated pool and generally enjoy the amenities
and spectacular views.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">All food is
locally sourced and delicious, breakfast, lunch and dinner with wine is
included.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So next morning, after a
lovely breakfast (Gilly’s granola is fab.) we started the stitching.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge8y5MEPrET0PKeu35cSLJOHp-DuynRwsdJUbjWty8ZxmPeQOvOPdhMkIA950fovBKYdiZVTRvTgHjWSWgERhhw47KjMA_3n8c0N-0BzwpbiX4a1W8JV7P5ftcYdgq5siNPBI8C-gnJ0I1/s1600/fruit+wreath.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge8y5MEPrET0PKeu35cSLJOHp-DuynRwsdJUbjWty8ZxmPeQOvOPdhMkIA950fovBKYdiZVTRvTgHjWSWgERhhw47KjMA_3n8c0N-0BzwpbiX4a1W8JV7P5ftcYdgq5siNPBI8C-gnJ0I1/s200/fruit+wreath.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The project
we worked on was the del Robbia Fruit Wreath; last year we did another Wreath
panel with the Paschal Lamb in the centre and another wreath to coordinate and
possibly make a pair was voted for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This Fruit wreath had clusters of lemons and the Arms of Arezzo in the
centre.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Similar to the first one
Shadow stitching was used.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you are
not familiar with shadow stitching it allows the painted design to show through
and gives both a soft gentle look and takes less stitching time that the
traditional basket weave.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzpfhaFJQSHU8xcB9tm6kZ9fEP9yLiO07x3H_YZg9SyPv0J87Y6oNufYZT0HYGFV01v1s9tH4cOvYYSClSEtxmR-AsKvwFUEZ8qk2ZlkKvfyKE-FS4_aHoGqGdW3Qi0Y0giZ_9tFRnCMF/s1600/CNV00066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="533" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzpfhaFJQSHU8xcB9tm6kZ9fEP9yLiO07x3H_YZg9SyPv0J87Y6oNufYZT0HYGFV01v1s9tH4cOvYYSClSEtxmR-AsKvwFUEZ8qk2ZlkKvfyKE-FS4_aHoGqGdW3Qi0Y0giZ_9tFRnCMF/s200/CNV00066.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">While this
type of stitching it is comparatively new to me, some years ago I designed a
series called ‘Patchwork’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here the
canvas was painted in a patchwork fashion of colours and then stitched over
with lacy stitches allowing the paint work to show through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One had a beautiful Iris painted, another
allowed the stitcher to have their initial.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb2tbhPGmZyd-mH7S40Cj1uhAUihttfNEXAsxuZ6GlZry_yZ232LbyIOXWHhTl2MrE_y8H7syNahWJ4ZacvWjlWkffyLakHp7yx1QCyrkQfnJDuTC9ysxju-2xSe0nnnYQ1QlAD7O0A6Ug/s1600/DSC01024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb2tbhPGmZyd-mH7S40Cj1uhAUihttfNEXAsxuZ6GlZry_yZ232LbyIOXWHhTl2MrE_y8H7syNahWJ4ZacvWjlWkffyLakHp7yx1QCyrkQfnJDuTC9ysxju-2xSe0nnnYQ1QlAD7O0A6Ug/s200/DSC01024.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Within the Fruit
Wreath design, each student choose to do the complete design as the original or
use elements to suit their desires.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One
left the whole of the centre free to take a mirror, another replaced the Arezzo
coat of arms with her own shield! and yet another stitched only the Arezzo Castle
with a dramatic border.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everyone
working on a similar theme makes for a useful exchange of ideas which I find so
rewarding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I shall hope to share some of
these variations when finished.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ynD7PFxo-RkiaMD8uC8fKRPx7Xli3P83sY22xAGrxrtppenm7Lot9A2KsDxFg6EtZc7rxpJhQyhWNv3htph0wO9s6QgdgTTwOV1-poT2P2XNwoM8LnS5qGD_zN45Div8dmSTxCbJtrXA/s1600/IMG_0485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="1296" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ynD7PFxo-RkiaMD8uC8fKRPx7Xli3P83sY22xAGrxrtppenm7Lot9A2KsDxFg6EtZc7rxpJhQyhWNv3htph0wO9s6QgdgTTwOV1-poT2P2XNwoM8LnS5qGD_zN45Div8dmSTxCbJtrXA/s200/IMG_0485.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Besides
stitching – no hardship sitting under a vine covered patio – we were also there
to visit some of the Tuscan treasures, medieval hill top villages, interesting
museums and art collections, churches with important art work and of course a
little shopping!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sadly we did find our
rate of exchange (both dollars and sterling) not contusive to many
purchases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin4x2LZCDglhG-enUcIgRh7MVydkFusfrCDknzUU1vLoS_93cZkW9zyCJQPYard4CnIN7oO0v_yufzdoNSVjv675857u5KrP7piLWP2AP9zSdfZGMGKZKOOPjtbfcTj3z4mA7xZDxMPVTt/s1600/IMG_1320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin4x2LZCDglhG-enUcIgRh7MVydkFusfrCDknzUU1vLoS_93cZkW9zyCJQPYard4CnIN7oO0v_yufzdoNSVjv675857u5KrP7piLWP2AP9zSdfZGMGKZKOOPjtbfcTj3z4mA7xZDxMPVTt/s200/IMG_1320.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This time we
revisited Anghiari. The village famous for the Battle in 1440 and the painting
by Leonardo da Vinci slightly later (1505) to commemorate it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This painting has been lost although some
believe that it is ‘under’ a fresco in Florence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Arranged for us was a private visit to the
famous Busatti Linen factory (web site Busatti.com/en if you would like a peep
at their range) and a leisurely walk up and down the narrow streets with
countless photo opportunities.</span></span> </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvU98wsGtiNDqw3wpLYdBKLrM3ONqWocRNkte-MYxlpXup8hBuFG0kQsIe4e_pYETsgPvKhY2laNlMyXvX1WABaOqvcS8q3vayAdd-U5KOV-tRPL5yIktIMWEqvkPH2QEPTY49ydnlKmSG/s1600/vegtables.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvU98wsGtiNDqw3wpLYdBKLrM3ONqWocRNkte-MYxlpXup8hBuFG0kQsIe4e_pYETsgPvKhY2laNlMyXvX1WABaOqvcS8q3vayAdd-U5KOV-tRPL5yIktIMWEqvkPH2QEPTY49ydnlKmSG/s200/vegtables.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On another
day we went to Sansepolcro the birth place of Pietro Della Francesco and home
to one of my favourite museums, the Aboca Herb museum (abocamuseum.it/en) but
should you visit be sure to pick up the guide book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That evening we had <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a great dinner in one of Dennis’s favourite restaurants
Il Dongione in the nearby village of San Giustino.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Both Gilly
and Dennis are already working on some alternative visits for us next time,
there are so many great places to visit we only have to return to firm favourites
from the previous visit.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWTuX2kCspfmJc3zWLYYnBASxWDAbpK-GraJiFST3iFC3CNKEzxCFlo5e2wPVLMQrcDTeY1UCqqEM6tl-J6KWPI_WXhN_WOF8roc1woyAEpNYnRwiN9lxcuC6epw-c2QDerQ3UI_GgbVW5/s1600/IMG_0478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="1296" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWTuX2kCspfmJc3zWLYYnBASxWDAbpK-GraJiFST3iFC3CNKEzxCFlo5e2wPVLMQrcDTeY1UCqqEM6tl-J6KWPI_WXhN_WOF8roc1woyAEpNYnRwiN9lxcuC6epw-c2QDerQ3UI_GgbVW5/s200/IMG_0478.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I do hope I
have given you some idea of a stitching retreat such as this;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I keep it small, friendly, almost entirely
price inclusive and a great solution for people who wish to travel, stress free,
with a likeminded group.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A full fact
sheet (being prepared as we speak) with some great early bird offers) will be
shortly available and I should be happy to send it to you<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Finally if
you can’t wait till next April, we do have a trip to Calabria in Southern Italy
this September for which again I should be happy to send details.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://www.tuscanparadiso.com/">http://www.tuscanparadiso.com/</a></span></span></div>
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