Brynwood Bridal...

My Brynwood Bridal department is already open in my Etsy shop, with new additions posting this week. Brynwood Baby will open soon, featuring some very special handcrafted items for baby boys and girls. I can't wait to share those treasures with you! I'll let you know when new items post via my Instagram and Facebook pages, but of course, you'll always get the news here, too.

I was so close to finishing the ladybugs yesterday, but just need one more day to get them assembled. Once complete, I'll list those in my shop, too. Assuming the Internet doesn't take a dive today (with all the predicted doom and gloom), I'll be back tomorrow to show you what they look like with their wee antennae!

A Note About Today's Solar Eclipse...

The only caution I'll share for whenever this eclipse is scheduled for your area is this: Some pets may react to the event like they would fireworks. Please make sure your pets are safe and secure so they don't bolt out of fear. We're planning to go about our business as usual here at the farmhouse, and we're going to keep all four girls (Bella, Carly, Claudette and Crystal) indoors with us until this has passed. Better safe than sorry. We can chat about the events of the day later this week. Hoping this is all one, big nothing burger!

A Completed Commission...

An order came in yesterday for one of my sheepy pendant/necklaces. As I'd sold what I had in stock, I happily created another to ship out today. I wonder how many French knots were stitched into this little sheep? (I'm really wondering. I didn't actually count them. lol)

I have a medical appointment early this morning, so I'm out the door way earlier than I usually even get up. When I get back home, I'll be working on my frog again - probably after a nap. I'll show you how much I accomplish when we visit again tomorrow.

It feels weird not to have a Tag post today. Next week, I'm going to share some ideas I'm working on in his memory to offer in my shop. Don't worry. I'm not going to do a sad post. More next week. I'd better get moving so I'm not late for my appointment. Fun times! (Not so much.)

Something New On The Horizon...

I may not be able to do much right now, but I am able to work on my iPad and cell phone. Not only have I created new artwork for stickers (of our girl, Carly), but I have some other plans for it, too. Creating Carly’s artwork was something I’ve been wanting to do for a while, but other things - like canning - got in the way. Thankfully, my iPad weighs less than five pounds!

My word for this year is Build, and there’s no time like the present. Because I’m losing my possible income from one - and likely two - shows this fall, I’m going to develop a few new avenues to compensate. I’ll continue with my Etsy shop, but I’ll change up and fine tune my offerings there. I’m also planning and working on two other sites I hope to share soon. 

For now, I’ll add all my Farmhouse Critter stickers to my Etsy shop as they are available. Funny. I thought my Bella and Tag stickers were already there. I guess slowing down will be good for my ability to focus. It’s always a pleasure to find a silver lining in this present situation. 

I’ll keep sharing announcements on Instagram, FaceBook, newly-revisited Pinterest, and of course, you’ll always know about it here.

I’ll keep working on my projects and will share more as soon as I can. Expect some wonderful changes! Change is good, right?

Cyber Monday-Tuesday...

Shop Savings On All Items

 

The weekend flew by in a whirlwind of activity. I saw both my eldest nieces; hosted meals on two different days; ran to town (more than once); and washed a lot of dishes. I did manage to set up a Cyber Sale for Monday and Tuesday in my Etsy shop.

Save 20% on all items with a $35 or more purchase. I'll add more listings for handbags and wallets today, so you can still get a gift for yourself or someone special. Check my shop throughout the day to see the newest items.

Working For The Weekend...

Brynwood Shop Listings

 

I've been biiiiizzzzzyyyy! I spent the past couple of days adding new listings to my Etsy shop, and have already shipped out a few items. You might want to check them out, and I'll be making more hickory syrup today. Monday, I'll be listing up more. (I have to wait for a packaging order to arrive first.) You can visit my shop by clicking the Etsy icon in my sidebar...or directly HERE.

Happy Weekend, friend!

Booyah!!!...

Brynwood Needleworks - BW Exclusive Strawberry Sachet - Hydrangeas

One of the benefits of doing a deep dive into my studio supplies is that I'm finding things long-buried and forgotten (or lost). I was sure that I was on the last few scraps of a fabric I adore for making my strawberry sachets. Don't get me wrong. I like the linen a lot, but my first choice has always been this creamy white fabric.

 

I decided to empty a closet in my fabric studio. I knew that there were fabrics on rolls I want to donate, so I started pulling all the beautiful pieces into the light. One of the rolls that ended up with my bridal/formal fabrics was this fabric! I have at least a yard of 60" fabric...maybe even two yards! 

This discovery alone was worth the work I did yesterday. I think I have about a dozen bolts and three rolls of fabric pulled to list. I also have books, patterns and notions I'll be making available, too. I'm going back into my Square account to see about setting up a storefront. I promise I'll keep everyone updated about what I do, and make links that will be available to all. Thanks for your input yesterday, because it helped me see that this is probably my best option. 

 

Square also has a new feature that will allow me to share items right here on my blog, with an attached purchase button that you can click to buy. This could be really wonderful for some of my Exclusive Brynwood pieces in the future.

I still have a lot of work ahead of me, but I really made a huge dent yesterday. I think I'm going to need to buy just a few storage containers so that I can move the offerings into my freshly-cleaned attic space for holding (until sold) out of my studio rooms. I'm going to run out this morning to find some, and then I'll be able to get a little more sorting accomplished over the weekend. Lots to do, so I best get after it. Of course, coffee first. wink See you later!

 

Time For A Sale...

Brynwood Needleworks - Sale Time!

 You know I'm such a kid about my Birthday, don't you? YES. I. AM. 

I've mastered the art of the extended Birthday, and have previously managed to stretch it out for three months! Well, it's been so crazy this year that I got a late start, but never fear, I managed to treat myself to a few things today and called them Birthday gifts...so, let the festivities begin!! I even bought a cake at the store today. (I cut and froze 2/3 of it for when Handsome comes back home.)

To mark the occasion in my Etsy shop, I'm going to have a 20% off sale on all purchases over $35.00. This sale will run from today (11/21/20) through 12/15/20, and all items will be shipped in plenty of time for Christmas. Please use this code on ready to ship items only. If you're interested in something I'll have to create for you, please contact me regarding pricing and production schedule. (Don't forget I'm having surgery on December 1st, which will affect my studio time.) The earlier you order, the sooner I can ship.

 

Just pop over to my shop (My Etsy shop link is in the sidebar menu), choose what you can't live without (for you or in time for holiday gifting), and type in this coupon code at checkout: BWSALE20. This sale is for US customers only (Sorry to my Canadian or UK friends). Celebrate!!! The party is on!!!

They're Here!...

Brynwood Needleworks - BW Zipper Pull Hardware

 

My zipper hardware arrived yesterday, and I am so excited about how lovely the engraving turned out. These "piles" are just a sampling of what I received, and I'm going to be able to make quite a few wallets, handbags, and more using them.

(Remember: You can always click on the photographs to enlarge them! You might want a closer look.)

Brynwood Needleworks - BW Key Fob Hardware

I also ordered engraved key fob hardware, so of course, I had to create something new with them. I can't wait to make more - coordinating with my bags and wallets, and as stand-alone items in my shop.

 

I think I'll be in the studio today. The weather is cooler, the dogs are keeping me company, and I need to make something using my new hardware! What a great way to start the weekend. Happy Friday, everybody! 

Up Next...

Brynwood Needleworks - Batiks and Tula Pink

 

I'm going to be neck-deep in these batiks and the Tula Pink (Bottom) fabric this week. As of this date, the November 22nd Annual Kewaskum Craft Show - where I show and sell - is still scheduled. That means I need to get cracking if I'm going to have new inventory.

 

If the show is canceled last minute, I'll have some awesome new bags and wallets to sell in my shop. I'm still waiting for my black cork fabric to arrive (scheduled for Wednesday arrival), but I can surely begin preparing and cutting these fabrics in the meantime. I also have some "Brynwood" engraved zipper pulls that should be on their way soon, so I want to use them in this year's lineup, too!

 

Brynwood Needleworks - Batik Set - BW Ensemble and Nocturne Overnight Bags

 

This is the set I'm planning to create using the batiks. I'm also going to make matching Bryn wallets to go with them. I'm planning to have lots of coordinated options for my customers this time.

I'm also going to be making more Bryn wallets, Project Totes, Bella Totes, and a few other new items. I don't need to make dozens of each, but I do want to have a nice selection. 

Handsome and Carly are leaving for Florida this morning, so I'll be here with Tag and Bella. I'll be getting a lot done, and stopping to take care of the pups and me, as needed. I'm gonna be a busy gal, and I'll share photos of my finishes as they pile up.

 

Of course, if you see something you like and want to reserve for yourself, just let me know and I'll pull it. Just let me know. 

 

Tag will be back tomorrow, so I'll be back with some projects to share on Wednesday. See you then!

 

It Was A Good Day...

Brynwood Needleworks - Happy Me

 

I got out yesterday for a much needed haircut. I always feel better after a good trim, and as I've been mostly housebound, a visit with my girlfriend (and hair stylist) Wendi, was just what the doctor ordered. I wanted to capture my good "do", so Handsome took my picture. That laughter was all for him.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - BW Grab & Go Crossbody Bag

I also got in a little sewing time. I needed to fulfill an order for a Vintage Hibiscus Grab & Go Crossbody. I added a matching keychain, as the order is going to a good client. Time in the studio (sewing/creating) always makes me happy.

I'd say it was a very good day!

I'm Having So Much Fun...

Brynwood Needleworks - Fabric Offerings

I was on my feet all day yesterday (again). I've listed up a lot more fabrics, and will likely do the same thing today. I'll begin my day by sending out yesterday's orders, and then prepare more fabric to list...after coffee.

I'm actually having a great time doing this. I'm finding quilt kits (I forgot) I want to sew, more fabrics to release, and a few other things I forgot I had. I can hardly wait to see what reveals itself today! See you later.

So Much Fabric To Share...

Image of Brynwood Needleworks Etsy Storefront

I've been so busy, listing up lots of new fabrics, books and other items in my Brynwood online shop. I'm still using Etsy (for now), mainly because I'm too lazy to do the work to set up my own website. I know how many brain cells and hours it will would take to accomplish that.

Anyway, I've photographed, described, and listed lots of fabric yardage, kits and assortments over the past few days...and I have a lot more to go! I've been selling it almost as fast as I get it listed, so if you're in the market, please check - and check back - when you have time. Just go to www.BrynwoodNeedleworks.com, and it will take you right to my online shop. I'll be adding more all week.

I've Been A Busy Bee...

Brynwood Needleworks - Fabric For Sale

I've been really busy. I've been pulling fabrics, photographing them, and listing them up in my Etsy shop. All the fabrics are priced to go. My goal is to significantly downsize my fabric inventory to make way for a beautiful guest room in its place.

I've got a lot more to go through and list. I have to say, there are so many beautiful fabrics that I'll be letting go. I'm sorting through fabrics I know I'll need for specific projects, and then, I'll sell off the rest. My plan is for the fabrics I'm keeping to move into the machine studio, and end up with one efficient studio space. That means some serious purging.

I've got a lot more to do, but I'm up to the challenge. If you're interested in seeing what's new in my shop, just click HERE. I'm heading back to the studio...after coffee!

Tomatoes and Strawberries...

Brynwood Needleworks - Tomato Ketchup

 

Remember the bowls of beautiful tomatoes I shared recently? Campari, plum, cherry, and larger slicing tomatoes, that were either gifts from Shelly, my little brother, Christian, or from our few tomato plants.

I quartered or halved all of them (depending on size), and popped them in the slow cooker before Handsome and I went back to Christian's in Waupaca, WI on Saturday. When we got home, the house smelled of bright, cooked tomatoes, ready to be further prepared for ketchup.

I put everything through my mother-in-law's vintage chinois, straining out the skins and seeds. I put them into a large pot, adding the ingredients called for on the package of Mrs. Wage's Ketchup mix. (Added ingredients were: white vinegar, sugar, a 6 oz. can of tomato paste, and the package of Mrs. Wage's Ketchup mix.)

After bottling up the ketchup, all the bottles went into my large water bath canner for 45 minutes, and, after a 15 minute wait to avoid siphoning, onto my butcher block to cool. They're all labeled and put away in the pantry now, and will be ready when needed.

My review of the Ketchup mix is that it was sweeter than we're used to in ketchup, even after I added more vinegar and Worcestershire sauce after the initial tasting to cut the sweetness. However, I think it will be perfect when I use it as the base for my homemade barbeque sauce later. I will say, it is pretty, too, isn't it?

Brynwood Needleworks - Woolen Strawberry Pincushion

 

I also had an order for one of my woolen strawberry pincushions, so I did the assembly and embroidery for this one. I still can't sit on my sewing chair, so the machine will be moved to a countertop later today. I have orders waiting, and I can't wait any longer.

 

Frustration isn't usually a word in my vocabulary, but these days I'm frustrated because I'm in pain. I need to push through it, and get back to work. Standing will help. I'm gonna suck it up, and get back to what I love.

 

Stumpwork Hydrangeas...

Brynwood Needleworks - Strawberry Sachet "Hydrangeas"

 

I really love how this one turned out! I enjoyed creating all the stumpwork hydrangea blossom heads, and will likely do another in all white, like the kind you'd find around our farmhouse. 

Most of the hydrangeas we had here were removed as a consequence of the new porch, but there are still a few plants growing on the north side of the house, that survived untouched. I'm hoping they'll eventually migrate around to the front again. I may help them, by purchasing a few plants this fall.

In the meantime, I'll stitch these lovelies. I've said all along that these Strawberry Sachets were limited editions, as I only have a very limited quantity of the fabric I've been using for them left in my inventory. I'm going to have to find a new fabric, or turn to linen, if I'm going to keep making them. Once this fabric is gone, it's gone. I've searched the worldwide web to no avail. 

If you're interested in any of the available sachets, you can click HERE to go to my Brynwood online shop. The Strawberry Sachets can be found under "Exclusively Brynwood".

Giveaway Time!!!...

Brynwood Needleworks - 11th Anniversary Giveaway Contest Prize

 

As promised, I'm opening a Giveaway Contest today to celebrate my ELEVEN years of blogging!

The prize will go to one (or maybe two) lucky winner(s). It's a gift certificate for $85.00 to use in my online shop. Anyone can enter, but if you live outside the US, you'll be responsible for any VAT (or other taxes) imposed on your end.

How To Enter:

• Go to my online shop - HERE

• Come back to THIS POST ONLY and tell me what you'd choose if you won

That's it. You can only enter once, and only on this post. It's that simple.

Contest will end on March 31, 2020. I'll announce the winner(s) on April 1st (No fooling!).

 

Thanks again for visiting with me for another year. I'm oh so grateful for you!

Good Luck!!

 

Fun And Games...

Brynwood Needleworks - Four-Patch Blocks From Primitive Gatherings' "Farmhouse Gatherings" Fabrics

 

We had a fun and busy weekend. On Saturday, I sat down for a few hours and pieced the four-patch blocks that will be sewn into my simple Chenille Four-Patch lap quilt.

On Sunday, Handsome and I attended a farm toy show in a nearby town. Our friend and neighbor, Shelly had a booth, and of course, I had to purchase one of her pieces. I'm going to share what I bought another day. (Hint: It has a compass on it!) It was good for Handsome to get out and walk a little more than he can here at home, and he really did get some exercise for his new knee. 

The weather is getting warmer, too, and we already have birds returning to the farm. Red-wing blackbirds, robins, and sandhill cranes are the first to show up, and their calls fill the air. It's great to see them back again, too.

I spent the afternoon reading a book that a friend is publishing. It's a wonderful piece, and I was in happy tears by the end. I'll tell you more about that when I have permission, but it was a perfect way to finish the day.

Off to take Handsome to physical therapy this morning, and then I'll be back to the studio this afternoon. I'll see you again on Wednesday, as Tag is here tomorrow. 

**I'd like to remind you about the sale going on in my shop right now, too. You need the code that I'm only sharing with my blog and Facebook friends. Just click HERE and use the code: BWANNIVERSARY for 20% off. Thanks for looking! See you Wednesday.

 

Sale Week...

Brynwood Needleworks - BW Traveler Set - Nocturne Traveler and Bryn Convertible Crossbody Wallet

 

You know I don't shop on Black Friday, and my Birthday is next week, so it's time to celebrate! I'm going to have a sale in my shop.

From Friday, November 29th through next Saturday, December 7th, use Coupon Code - BIRTHDAY15 to save 15% on anything in my shop ($35 minimum purchase). Many of the listings also offer Free Shipping. You can combine fabric purchases to reach the discount, and all my newest bags and wallets are available for your Christmas shopping.

I'm going to be working on a few orders today, but I'm definitely staying home. It's snowing again, and I have things to do indoors. I'll be outside with the dogs, as needed, but I'll also be making sure the birds and our opossums have plenty of food to nourish them, too.

So, it's official (thanks to you, Sherry E.). My Birthday celebrating has begun. I think I may have a giveaway this week, too! You'll have to come back to see...

Delightfully Busy...

Brynwood Needleworks - Top For BW Acorn Pincushion

 

It's so lovely that, while I'm getting ready for the show this next weekend, I'm also receiving orders in my shop. It gives me a nice break from one project to work on another.

 

All the wool applique' embroidery is complete for this next pincushion, so I'll do the assembly this morning. I'll be able to ship it out to its new home today, or in tomorrow's post.

 

You know what I'm working on today. I also worked on a bit of my display components for the show, and I'm looking forward to sharing the final booth setup with you in a mere week. eek!

 

I'd love to sit with my morning coffee and chat a bit more with you, but you know I have a million little things drawing me away. Tag will be back tomorrow, and you'll see me again on Wednesday with all the latest news. See you then!

 

Two More Done...

Brynwood Needleworks - Two Birds Shop Hop Bag

It was another productive day. I completed two more bags today, and began work on the next set of bags. 

Brynwood Needleworks - Orchid Shop Hop Bag

 

Although I'm producing for my show on the 24th, I have listed all of the Shop Hop Crossbody Bags in my Etsy shop, in the event anyone sees one they can't live without. Just go HERE to check them out. 

I'll be baking bread this morning, but I'll be back in the studio this afternoon. Busy, Busy. Just the way I like it.