July 31, 2021

Almost Ready...

Brynwood Needleworks - Just A Few New Pendants
 
This is a display of half the pendants I'll be listing up over the weekend.
The other half are finished, but I'm only sharing this one photo of them today.
 
Brynwood Needleworks - New Florals For Pendants
 
I also stitched four new florals for pendants yesterday. 
(Clockwise from top left: Cornflower, Queen Anne's Lace, Coneflower, and Dandelion)
 
I'll turn these into pendants, too. Then, I'll be ready to photograph and list in my online shop. 
 
 
Shelly gave me an awesome (huge) zucchini recently. Today, I'll be turning that into multiple jars of Zucchini and Pepper Relish for the pantry. Handsome helped me get all the necessary canning supplies up from the basement, so I'm ready to roll. I can't wait to see those finished jars of the beautiful relish on the shelf.

I hope you have something fun planned for the weekend. The weather is supposed to be perfect here, so I hope it will be great where you live, too. See you tomorrow!

DonnaAcornSignature

July 30, 2021

Then I Did This...

Brynwood Needleworks - My Embroidered Basket Pincushion
 
I embroidered roses all over the top of my little basket pincushion!
 
Brynwood Needleworks - My Little Basket Pincushion
 
I shared this image in a recent blog post, and realized how plain my little basket pincushion looked. Here, I've been embroidering all these pretty flowers, and one of my favorite tools looked embarrassingly drab. 
 
I'd watched a few online videos lately and always noticed that the needleworker had a beautiful pincushion at hand, usually that she'd embellished. So, I decided to do mine yesterday.
 
Brynwood Needleworks - Top Detail of Basket Pincushion
 
The result was a ring of rose blossoms in soft shades of pink and pale green. These roses take a bit of time to stitch, so this project took more than a few (blissfully peaceful) hours.
 
My other projects aren't quite ready to share yet, but I promise you won't have to wait long. I'm just dancing away, and getting them all done. 
 
I can't believe it's Friday again...already. Plus, it's nearly the end of another month! Isn't there a way to make summer last like it did when we were kids? I need more time in a day. Who can I talk to about that?
 
DonnaAcornSignature

July 29, 2021

I Can't Stop Dancing...

Brynwood Needleworks - A Commissioned Piece
 
Needle Dancing, that is.
 
I've created this as part of a commissioned piece. Now that the embroidery is finished, I'll be assembling the rest of the materials to complete it. (I'll be sure to share the finished work with you!)
 
Brynwood Needleworks - Making Floral Necklaces

I was assembling pendants today, too, from the flowers I've already embroidered. There will be more of these coming, too. I'm going to wait until I have a number of them finished before listing them all up for sale. If you see one you want, you can let me know, and I'll pull it from the lineup. (The lilacs and clover shown here are already claimed, but I can make another for you. Because each one is hand crafted, no two will be exactly alike.)
 
So, if you're looking for me, I'll either be in the Compass Barn, visiting with that little black and white cat, or I'll be in my studio surrounded by my canine admirers. See you tomorrow!

DonnaAcornSignature

July 28, 2021

It's Been A Long, Long Time...

Brynwood Needleworks - Embroidery Threads

I can tell you the exact time I last went out shopping for embroidery threads. Sure, I've purchased a few specific assortments, but the last time I purchased threads in a shop was in Lexington, when my tutor, Owen and I went in search of silk threads for the butterfly from my RSN class. I can't believe that's already three years ago!

With all the flower bouquets I've been embroidering, I've been quickly using up a number of my favorite colors. I needed to get more. So, after Tag's vet appointment (Yes. He survived. lol), Handsome and I took him home, and went back out to run a few errands - including a stop to purchase more threads. 

By the time we got back home, it was time for airing and feeding the pups, me feeding Claudette, and then making dinner. I settled on a dish we hadn't made together in decades...egg foo yung...which takes time. (It was delicious, by the way.) Cleanup, letting the dogs out again, and then bedtime kept me from actually using any of the threads last night, so I'll be doing just that today. You know the drill. After coffee...

DonnaAcornSignature

July 27, 2021

Tuesdays With Tag - Anticipation...

Brynwood Needleworks - Taggart

Hi, Everybody!
 
I woke up Monday mornin' thinkin' that this week was gonna be awesome. You know, filled with chasin' the cat; barkin' my fool head off at the wind or any other minute noise; and other stuff like that. Instead, I find out I have an appointment.
 
Compassionate Care Animal Clinic - Elkhart Lake, WI
 
I don't even know why she told me. It just means I have to worry about it until it's over. Nooooo. I have to go to the vet for my annual checkup. Great.

Compassionate Care Animal Clinic - Dr. Prellwitz & Winnie

On a good note, I'll get to see Dr. John. I really like him - even though I'm used to Dr. Stephanie and the ladies at Animal Medical Clinic in Florida. He takes really good care of me (and Bella and Carly, too!).
 
What's botherin' me is I know I'm gonna get at least one shot. Mom got a reminder sayin' I'm due for my rabies shot, and of course, she had to tell me. So, now I get to think about that until after I get it. I just hope there's a treat in it for me when it's all over. Yeah. I can't wait until it's all over.

I'll see you again in seven. 'til then...
"Corgi On, Corgi Strong!"

July 26, 2021

More Flowers...

Brynwood Needleworks - Pendant Florals II

I'm unable to garden outside these days (this bum knee), but I'm able to grow my garden inside! I was busy over the weekend making more florals for the pendants I'm working on. The newest ones are in this photograph, clockwise from top left: Blue Flowers, Lavender, Coneflower, Hollyhocks, and Daisies.

I'm waiting for more jewelry findings to arrive, but I have two floral projects to do in the meantime. I'll work on those later today. I have (yet) another doctor's appointment this morning (my annual Wellness checkup), and then I'll be back home to play.

Happy Monday! 
Wishing you a fabulous week.
xoxo
 
DonnaAcornSignature

July 25, 2021

Sunday Scripture...

Proverbs 19:21 via Facebook 

DonnaAcornSignature

July 24, 2021

This Is A Little Addictive...

Brynwood Needleworks - Floral Pendants
 
I added two more completed pendants to my lineup. In addition to the peach rose, I now have clover and Queen Anne's lace pendants. I love how these turned out, so I just kept going. I'll be adding these to my Etsy shop soon, however, you can also claim the ones you see before they get listed. Just leave a comment in this post, or send me a private message via Facebook, or email works, too.
 
Brynwood Needleworks - More Florals
 
Yesterday, I created a lilac floral (for a special order), and three roses. One rose is the same soft pink colors I used in the Lady's Necessaire. The other two roses are shades of purple. I'll be mounting these into the jewelry pieces over the weekend. I've already got four or five more in mind. Like my post title says, making these can be a little addictive!
 
Brynwood Needleworks - Acorn Charms

Did I tell you I even added a tiny acorn to each necklace? I did! Now, you'll remember who created them, even though I'm not signing these pieces.
 
I'm meeting up for a long overdue lunch date with my BFF, Lee. If I remember, I'll take photos. When we get together, it's easy to lose track of time. I do love that gal.
 
DonnaAcornSignature

July 23, 2021

Something New From Brynwood...

Brynwood Needleworks - Rose Floral Pendant

I've been busy creating some new offerings. Lately, I've begun stitching these small florals to insert into lovely pendant findings. 

The Rose Floral Pendant (shades of peach) is ready to ship to a new home. I'll be offering it on the Brynwood Facebook page this morning. Once it's claimed, I'll email an invoice to the buyer. If you're interested, all you have to do it write "Me, please" in the comments for this post or in the Facebook group. (If it's already claimed, I'll happily make another just for you!)

Brynwood Needleworks - Florals For Pendants
 
In addition to the roses, I've also stitched a pretty Clover, and another with Queen Anne's Lace. I'll make up the pendants for these two today. You may also claim those now, if you'd like either one.
 
Is there a special flower you'd like to see? Just let me know. I'd love to make something just for you. You can see the pendant and chain size in the first image. Each one is stitched on natural linen using quality cotton threads, and I've even added a tiny acorn charm to each chain (near the clasp). 
 
These are perfect as gifts, too. Each one will arrive carefully packaged in a white box, ready to give to a special friend or family member.

I'll be busy needle dancing today. I'm looking forward to sharing more pendants as I complete them. Can you believe it's already the weekend again? Whew! Time sure flies.
 
DonnaAcornSignature

July 22, 2021

A Kitchen Day...

Brynwood Needleworks - Prairie Flea Bane

It was a productive, long day. I baked bread yesterday, and shared three of the four loaves. The day ended with a concert in the park, with Handsome performing in the percussion section. I sat with my dear Aunty and Mom Grace's daughter, Sis (and her partner, Jim). It was a perfect evening, and we enjoyed the concert together.

I also woke up yesterday morning to find that the Lady's Necessaire was claimed and has been sold. I went to bed pleasantly tired. Hard work, some play, and a grateful heart for the appreciation of my work. I'll be back in the kitchen today, baking bread for our freezer. 
 
I'll be stitching again as I'm able. I can already tell, it's going to be another great day. Know that I'm wishing the same for you.
xo
DonnaAcornSignature

July 21, 2021

Lady's Necessaire Available Now...

Brynwood Needleworks Exclusive Lady's Necessaire For Sale
 
 I'm happy to offer this custom embroidered oak Lady's Necessaire for sale.
The Necessaire is no longer available, and I only have this one in light oak.
 
This is an elegant accessory to help keep your small stitching tools at hand. I've embroidered a custom rose design on linen fabric for the top, and then finished it with beautiful cording around the edge. This design is permanently mounted to the case.
 
The magnetic liner holds your pins, needles, and even a small scissors, threader or other small tool in place, and I've added a sweet embroidered cushion inside to use as a pincushion when you're stitching. Just place your open case next to your project, and you can park your pins and needles when you're not using them.
 
This is a one-of-a-kind Lady's Necessaire, so I won't be able to make another like it. I do have one more, larger Necessaire in dark cherry finish, waiting for a different embroidery design. It will not be available at this price.

Please contact me to purchase, and I will send the buyer a secure invoice via Square. The first person to claim it will be invoiced. If you're the second person to contact me regarding purchase, you'll be contacted if the first person doesn't complete the purchase. If the first person completes the purchase, the second person will be contacted first to be able to purchase the second (and last) one I'll be offering.
 
I'll also be sharing this offering in the Brynwood Needleworks Facebook group today, so if you're interested, please don't hesitate to contact me. (You can do so by going to the Brynwood Needleworks Facebook Group and sending me a private message.) Click HERE the link to my Facebook group. If we're friends on Facebook, you can also send me a private message there.

Thanks for looking. I'm baking bread today, and plan to start making those half-square triangles for A Penny Gathering, too. What's on your agenda?

UPDATE: SOLD, WITH MY GRATITUDE 7/21/21

DonnaAcornSignature

July 20, 2021

Tuesdays With Tag - Even Stumpier Stumpers...

Brynwood Needleworks - Taggart - July 2021

Hi, Everybody!
Curious about my post title? I bet you are, so I'll get right to it.
 
I woke up yesterday mornin' with a spring in my step and a positive attitude. That went quickly downhill when I heard Mom with that come hither, Tag, chirpin'. Right away I knew it wasn't gonna be anythin' good. Boy, was I right!

I headed for the house, toot sweet, but she caught up to me and hauled me to the garage. (Clue Two. Nothin' good happens in the garage unless we're gettin' in the truck to leave!) She hoisted me up onto this tall, skinny table with a rug on top, and then I saw the dreaded Tools of Torture!

It started nice enough with a little brushin', but went downhill real quick when she got out the new trimmer. Before I could register my objections, she was cuttin' off my toes. I kid you not! I hate detest am not a fan of havin' my toenails cut. It's so demeanin'. I mean, who wants to carry on like a little girl? Not me. (I don't want to even go into detail.)

Lucky for me, there was no bath on the agenda - and the "groomin'" didn't last more than about 30 minutes. There was a peace offerin' of treats when she was done, too, but it hardly made up for the fact that I'd been violated!

Lots of dogs like gettin' buffed and puffed, but I'm not one of 'em. I prefer that "devil-may-care" appearance. I know there's a bath in my future, but I'm hopin' we can hold off as long as possible. I'd rather play in a mud puddle any day.

So now you know. I hope if you leave a comment today, you'll take Mom to task for subjectin' me to such egregious treatment. I'd start a petition, but I know who puts food in my dish, and if Corgis love anythin' in this world, it's food. Enough for now. I'd better stay on the lookout for whatever she's got planned for me next.
 
I'll see you again in seven. 'til then...
"Corgi On, Corgi Strong!"

July 19, 2021

Almost Finished...

Brynwood Needleworks - Roses Detail
 
I've been needle dancing again! 
 
I thought I'd share what I worked on yesterday. This is just a peek at a piece that will be available in a day or so. I'll make it available here and on FaceBook before listing it in my Etsy shop.

Brynwood Needleworks - Current Rose Project

I'll be adding cording around the outside edge of the embroidery, and add another small embroidery piece on the inside. I'll share the details on Wednesday. I'll likely have it finished by then.

Tag will be here tomorrow. Have a great Monday!

DonnaAcornSignature

July 18, 2021

Sunday Scripture...

Jude 1:2 via Shutterfly - Brynwood Needleworks

DonnaAcornSignature

July 17, 2021

I'm Calling It "Farmhouse Flowers"...

Brynwood Needleworks - "Farmhouse Flowers" Embroidery

I completed my embroidery project yesterday afternoon. I'm calling it "Farmhouse Flowers", and I can already imagine "Farmhouse Flowers - Part Two" in my head. (Imagine hollyhocks, orange lilies, chickory, daisies, and hydrangeas.) I had such an enjoyable time creating this piece, and will put it on display as soon as I press it to take out the wrinkles. 
 
If you know me, you'll see that I even "signed" it, although I didn't put my initials and date on it. You can click on the image to enlarge it, to see if you can find it. I think I'll do this with my embroideries in the future, rather than trying to hide my initials. (Hint: lower right side)
 
The person who crocheted this vintage edging apparently put their initials along the edge of the doily (in dark ink), so I'll add just a little more to the edge to hide that. It won't take much, so I'll do that this morning and be well and truly finished.

DonnaAcornSignature

July 16, 2021

I'll Just Keep Stitching...

Brynwood Needleworks - Embroidery Progress

 I thought you might like to see how much more I accomplished yesterday on my embroidery project. I started stitching again around 11 am, and put my needle down around 10:30 pm. Of course, there were the requisite breathers for meals, tea, and such, but I spent most of the day doing only needlework. 
 
I'm not finished yet, so it's quite likely I'll continue today. I could go on for days on this one, as I'm so thoroughly enjoying this process. I wish I could brew up tea, invite all of you to the farmhouse, and chat while we stitch. Wouldn't that be lovely? I think it would be pure bliss. More tomorrow!

DonnaAcornSignature

July 15, 2021

My Sit & Stitch Project...

Brynwood Needleworks - Embroidered Roses
 
Yesterday was spent with the ladies in our Sewcial Sisters group. I saw some pretty incredible completed quilts, and enjoyed the time we were together. Our friend, Kay, hosted the gathering at her home, and we got to see her sewing studio. I think it's one of the most enjoyable things about visiting the members' homes. So much inspiration!
 
I've been wanting to do a project like this for some time, stitching well-loved stitches in a new way. I've been watching a few German and Russian needle artists on Instagram, and knew I was going to make my own attempt.

Brynwood Needleworks - Roses and Hyacinth Detail
 
I'm not drawing anything out ahead of time. As with the embroidered strawberry sachets I stitch, I work freehand, following my muse. I'm using two strands of embroidery floss throughout. Here's a closeup of the embroidery.

Brynwood Needleworks - More To Go, But Progress So Far

I'm not finished yet, but I'm going to keep working on it until I am. I'm stitching on a vintage doily with a crocheted edge. When it's done, I think it will be a pretty piece on my vintage dressing table in our bedroom. 
 
I have about 13 hours into it already, and it will be fun to see how many hours I actually have into it at the end. For now, I'll just keep needle dancing and see where I get to from here.

DonnaAcornSignature

July 14, 2021

I'm Hexied!...

Brynwood Needleworks - Lots of Hexie Flowers

 I've been busy with my hexie project! So far. they're assembled in groups of seven to look like flowers. (See where my logo is at the bottom of the photograph? Make that one #1, and then count five more clockwise, around that creamy white center.) I haven't sewn the flowers together yet, as I contemplate what I'd like for a finished product.
 
I'm trying to decide whether to stitch them together (like this) to make a table runner, or separate them to stitch onto a whole cloth background. Handsome said he likes them scattered onto a ground fabric to show off the flower shapes (plus the end project will be larger). I'm torn.

What do you think?

DonnaAcornSignature

July 13, 2021

Tuesdays With Tag - Same Old, Same Old...

Brynwood Needleworks - Sleepy Tag

 Hi, Everybody!

I'd love to say it's been an excitin' week and I got a lot of snufflin' and runnin' in, but truth is, it's been quite borin'. Judgin' from the smell of things, The Kid is still in season, if you know what I mean. I'm exhausted just thinkin' about it.

The best way for me to spend my days is either in my little bed; my own kennel; or better yet, on the rug in front of the back door. That way, I don't miss seein' that black and white kitty-puss when he roams around in the yard!

Brynwood Needleworks - Shenanigans In The Works

Bella spends a lot of time talkin' to Carly about the facts of life. Carly's a real Moanin' Myrtle, 'cuz Boo told me she's got cramps. I'd say poor girl, except she's been makin' me nuts all week. I don't feel one bit bad for her.
 
I read somewhere about a person who put Vaseline on their dog's nose, so he didn't chase his tail. I not that desperate (yet), so I'll pass, but I was seriously considerin' the idea. I think I'll just avoid as much of Herself as I possibly can until she's back on what passes for normal for her. 

Apologies that there wasn't something fresh and excitin' for you to read today. I know you'll understand why I'm less than my effervescent, interestin' and silly ol' self. My olfactory and system responses are under constant attack right now, but this, too, shall pass. Thanks again for droppin' buy

Apologies that there wasn't somethin' fresh and excitin' for you to read today. I know you'll understand why I'm less than my effervescent, interestin' and silly ol' self. My olfactory and system responses are under constant attack right now, but this too shall pass. Better days ahead. Thanks for droppin' by.

I'll see you again in seven. 'til then...
"Corgi On, Corgi Strong!"