Taking A New Class...

I'm taking another Royal School of Needlework class! This one is online, and the tutor is Heather Lewis, who I met when I was taking the butterfly course in Lexington in 2019. 

I actually purchased one of her kits while I was there, but I've never worked it. This is the booklet from that kit, and the image on the front of it is the box that I will make from it after I finish her online course.

When I saw that the RSN was offering a video/online class of Heather's technique - taught by Heather herself - I had to enroll. I will have access to the online classes until the end of January 2026, so there's plenty of time for me to complete all the modules.

My kit arrived today and I couldn't wait to open it! Inside were the threads, needles, Liberty of London fabrics and precut box pieces required to create the box shown for the course. When complete, it will be constructed as a double-decker, rectangular box, with the word "Threads" stitched on top. 

You know I have other pressing projects to complete first, so my goal is to begin this by March 1st. I want to complete my bluebirds embroidery first, and I have two other smaller projects to finish in the next ten days or so. I'll share those with you soon, but I just had to unveil this one because I was so excited.

If you're interested in taking this class, or looking at their other online offerings, HERE is the link to their online courses. (The link will open in a new window.) While their online courses aren't cheap, they're much more affordable than traveling to their in-person venues.

I didn't go to the classmate dinner gathering last night. By the time we left Green Bay from my doctor's appointment I was tired. We drove right into snow, and as it was windy with below zero temps all day, I was over being outdoors. I changed into my sweats and took a nap. I was happy to stay home and spend time with Handsome. There were many others who cancelled out, too, but a small, in-town group of die hards met and had a great time. I hope they took a photograph. If so, I'll share that when I get a copy.

Handsome is having lunch with #2 Son today, but I'm going to stay home. I have some things I want need to do, so I'll work on my tasks instead. I'm off to have my morning cuppa, and then I'll get after it. See you tomorrow. Stay warm if you live somewhere that's "frosty" right now.

Amazon Associate Favorites...

I worked in my Etsy shop yesterday, creating a new banner, and adding new listings. Soon, I'll be adding new digital files featuring my wooly acorn pincushion, corgi pincushion and strawberry pincushion patterns. It's nearly time to update my blog banner, too, so look for a new look here, as well.

Today I'm creating a new page for my blog to link to all my favorite needlework, sewing and quilting tools and accessories. I think I told you already that I'm now an Amazon Associate, so as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through my links. 

I'm only going to share items I've personally used and highly recommend, so you know you can trust your purchase. I'll be adding more as I sort through my links, and I'll have my "Amazon Associate Links" listed on my menu at the top of my blog to make it easier for you to locate.

One more thing - If you are looking for something specific but don't see it here, please contact me and I'll happily share my link for it, and then add it to this page.

 

This is the exact stand I use. It's stable, sturdy and never loosens up when I'm stitching. The best stand I've owned in 40 years! Here's my link: https://a.co/d/7fV8OYT

#ad #commissionearned

 

Yamato Sticking Paste, the standard of starch glue, is made from environment-friendly natural materials
Yamato paste is made from tapioca starch and is an indispensable traditional Japanese product when working with washi, chiyogami and katazome-shi.
These squeezable tubes of prepared adhesive are perfect for when you don't have the time to mix your own. Yamato green tube adhesive is acid free, non-toxic and dries clear. It is very consistent and has long drying time.

I use this to secure threads on the back of my stumpwork/goldwork pieces. It's used by many needleworkers, and was recommended to me by my friend and teacher, Clara of Clara Stitching. Here's my link: https://a.co/d/821Eco5

#ad #commissionearned

 

Hazel Everett's Goldwork: Techniques, Projects and Pure Inspiration It's a wonderful book and I'm so glad it's in my library! Recommended to me by my needlework teacher, Clara of Clara Stitching.
Here's my link: https://a.co/d/3guoGPU

#ad #commissionearned

 

A wonderful little book from the Royal School of Needlework. I love my copy! Here's my link: https://a.co/d/cX9tXp3

#ad #commissionearned

 

My favorite "everything needlework" book. I purchased my copy immediately after returning from my RSN week in Lexington, KY. Here's my link: https://amzn.to/3tpftBb

#ad #commissionearned

 

Kaverme 3PCS Precision Tweezers Set, Upgraded Anti-Static Stainless Steel of Tweezers, for Electronics, Soldering, Laboratory Work, Jewelry-Making, Model, Craft

I love this set! I use the ESD-11s all the time with my goldwork, and the other two for all my needlework and sewing. Reasonably priced, too! Here's my link: https://a.co/d/7qvN75G

#ad #commissionearned

 

Madeira Thread Chest. This is filled with all the colors of the rainbow. Rayon threads in a beautiful drawer cabinet. Great for machine or hand embroidery. Everything is at your fingertips. Here's my link: https://a.co/d/5ZvqXNc

#ad #commissionearned

 

Jinmaya Silk Mulberry Silk Thread for Handmade Embroidery 60 Colors Spools Cross Stitch Needle Point DIY Handicraft Supply Chinese Suzhou Embroidery Silk

Imagine thread painting with these beautiful threads. Yum!! I admit I don't own these yet, but the reviews are great, and I'm looking forward to adding them to my studio.
Here's my link: https://a.co/d/b1oetWv

#ad #commissionearned

 

Thread Wax Thread Conditioner Beeswax for Sewing Thread Beeswax Thread Conditioner for Quilting Sewing Strengthening Line Embroidery Wax for Thread (4 Pieces) 

These are perfect for conditioning your thread for strength when working on embroideries or goldwork. There are actually four of them in the set, and each one will look like these. You can keep one with each project, because we always have more than one in progress, right? Here's my link: https://amzn.to/45Bm093 #ad #commissionearned

 

Just imagine how wonderful it would be to have this assortment at your fingertips whenever you wanted to begin a new thread painting embroidery, or simply to work on a new project. I love having mine handy, and have frequently reach for this luscious metrosene silk finish thread from Mettler when I'm embroidering my seasonal birds. Here's my link: https://amzn.to/3QdLWDk

#ad #commissionearned

 

This is all for now, but I'll be adding more items as they come to mind - or when I order and fall in love with something new. Check back frequently so you don't miss anything, and as always, thank you for supporting my love of needlework and all things handcrafted.

 

Needlework Therapy...

 

What do you do when you can't stitch? Grab the Blue Emu™ and your fave needlework magazines and a good book. Make a nice, hot cuppa, put your feet up and read, darling. Daydream a little about the next time you'll be able to pick up a needle and thread, and choose your next project (15 down on the list).

Life really is good. Count your blessings, and never challenge "worse". It can always be worse, so be grateful for where you are. Tomorrow will be better.

Fly Away, Butterfly...

You may remember my completed Red Spotted Purple Butterfly project. This was the result of the stumpwork class I took with the Royal School of Needlework when they brought tutors from England to Kentucky in 2018. That's where I met our tutor, Owen Davies.

This was the class photograph we had taken at the end of our week-long session. Not only did we love Owen, his teaching style, and his sense of humor (once we got him to loosen up a bit), we forged new friendships with each other over that week, too. It was a truly memorable seven days together.

This is the group photograph of all the tutors who traveled to the United States to share their talents and expertise with those of us who attended for the one or two week sessions. 

I was devastated to learn that our tutor and friend, Owen passed away in the last week in England. He was only 52 years old. I'm told he passed quickly after being diagnosed with cancer. I cried when I read the announcement in the Royal School of Needlework Facebook group. 

I learned during our class that he lived in the same town in England where I was born - not far from Hampton Court Palace. I'd discussed with him, and so hoped to be able to fly overseas to take a class from him again. Those hopes were dashed in the time it took to read of his passing. I sat stunned, and in tears.

While in our class, Owen told us of a book he'd co-written on stumpwork, and thanks so my trusty smart phone, I immediately located a copy for sale online. Before he was finished talking about it, I'd purchased it. It was waiting for me when I got home over the weekend. I was happy to own it back then, but even more glad I own it now that I'll not be able to see him again.

Rest in Peace, dear Owen. 

Know that you're loved and missed, and we'll not forget our time with you.

Stumpwork Masterclass Book and Telling The Bees...

Brynwood Needleworks - The Stumpwork Masterclass by Alison Cole

 

I've stayed in touch with my RSN tutor, Owen Davies through the pandemic, and had a chance to discuss furthering my stumpwork skills until I can take more classes from him. He suggested Alison Cole's The Stumpwork Masterclass book, so I immediately set about procuring a copy.

I waited weeks for it to arrive, but it's finally here, and I'm anxious to really dig into it. Alison begins her nearly 200 page masterclass exploring the history of stumpwork in Australia and the UK, and moves into historical techniques and materials. There are lots of photographs, and great stitch diagrams along with her instruction.

While I'm healing, I think this will be just the resource book to have handy. I may approach this book as a real class, and actually put into practice the lessons as she lays them out in the book. What better way to work on my skills, don't you think?

My Fall Pillow is now assembled and complete. It's sitting in our living room where it will be enjoyed until the snow falls. One can only hope that that is many (many!) weeks off. For now, the chill in the air, along with the leaves already turning color, signals that this summer is drawing to a close. 

I learned that the bees that we help nourish with hollyhocks, lavender, bee balm, and other flowers all summer will soon leave with their hives to live in Florida for the winter. They'll spend their winter pollinating the orange groves. Isn't that wonderful? 

I think they may already know, but I've been telling the bees, the great news as they buzz about in their attempts to wring every last bit of nectar from the blossoms in our garden. I don't want them to be surprised. I want them to know I'll look forward to their return, too. It seems we'll all be preparing for the season's change.

More Progress...

Brynwood Needleworks - Working On My Farmhouse Hydrangeas

I had a wonderful visit with Kathy D. yesterday. She brought a beautiful bouquet of flowers, freshly picked from her gardens, along with my Wool Box from Primitive Gatherings. We sat on the porch and enjoyed the perfect weather, chatting as the hummingbirds buzzed in and out of the feeders.

Kathy got a chance to meet Carly - who surprisingly was a little shy. We let Bella out onto the porch, and Carly immediately got brave. (If it's okay for Mama, it's okay for me, right?) It was really sweet. Of course, then they wanted to wrestle around under Kathy's feet, so they got shooed back into the house so we could visit, unaccosted.

Brynwood Needleworks - My Stitching Setup

After Kathy left, I sat down to stitch again for a little while. I finished all my work on the blossoms, and then went back to read from my Royal School of Needlework Essential Stitch Guides for Stumpwork and Silk Shading. I purchased these when I was taking my classes in Lexington, and I frequently reference them. 

I'll be continuing my progress on this one until it's finished today, so I'll be able to show it to you on Monday. 

Tomorrow is Granddaughter #2's Birthday. Grandpa and I are hoping to see her today to give her her Birthday gift. It's hard to believe she's already a teenager. Gosh. It seems like only yesterday that she was born! Time sure flies.

I hope you have a restful and creative weekend. Take care, be safe, and stay healthy, dear friends. I'll chat with you again soon.

Happy August!!

 

Repurposing...

Brynwood Needleworks - Repurposed Jewelry Armoire

Facebook Marketplace strikes again. I found this lovely jewelry cabinet, thinking it would hold all my baubles and bangles (and bright, shiny beads). So I drove to take a look. Once I saw it "in person", something else occurred to me. Would it work for my silk threads, and stumpwork supplies? I think so!

Brynwood Needleworks - Repurposed Jewelry Armoire - Top Section

I paid the lady, loaded it into my Explorer, and brought it home. I gathered my supplies, and gave it a test load. I began with some of my tools in the top section (where the rings and things usually go).

Brynwood Needleworks - Repurposed Jewelry Armoire - Left Side Door

The side sections with hooks work perfectly for storing my hanging silk threads (Waterlilies and Watercolors from The Caron Collection, plus a few others).

Brynwood Needleworks - Repurposed Jewelry Armoire  - Right Side Door

I hung vintage silks, and my stumpwork wires on the opposite side. They all fit quite nicely!

Brynwood Needleworks - Repurposed Jewelry Armoire  - Silk Threads

The next drawer had compartments that were the perfect size for Trebizond silks, along with vintage robin's egg blue silks, Gutermann silks, and a few other odd silk threads.

Brynwood Needleworks - Repurposed Jewelry Armoire - Silk Threads and Needles

The front of this drawer holds needles for embroidery and applique', and strong cotton threads for covering and securing stumpwork wires. The back spools are gorgeous Kimono silks that I used in applique', but they'll also work for other embroidery.

Brynwood Needleworks - Repurposed Jewelry Armoire - Needles, Threads & Needle Minders

More silks, needle minders, needles, a beautiful ruler from my dear Kiwi friend, Marrianne, and even a bottle of coiled Pearl Sadi thread for goldwork.

Brynwood Needleworks - Repurposed Jewelry Armoire - Silk Threads

 

Last, but not least, are the rest of my silk threads, purchased in Kentucky when I was attending the Royal School of Needlework courses. My tutor, Owen, helped me choose them.

 

So, next time you see something you really like, consider a completely different purpose for it. This will fit perfectly next to my stitching chair, and all my supplies will be within reach. Now, all I need are more hours in the day to work on all the ideas in my head!

Still Stitching...

Brynwood Needleworks - Au ver a Soie (Soie d'Alger) Silk Threads

 

As I continue to embroider the wool appliques' for my Wooly Critter Sampler quilt, I'm also thinking about creating the vignette for my completed RSN Butterfly. Don't you think silk stumpwork flowers would be a perfect accessory for my Red Spotted Purple?

I ordered these from a brick and mortar shop via their website, and they arrived yesterday. I'd better keep after my quilt so that I can start this as soon as my critter quilt is finished! As my friend, Susan Greening Davis always says, "Still Stitching!"

My Beautiful Butterfly...

Brynwood Needleworks - My Completed Royal School of Needlework Class Butterfly

 

I completed my Red Spotted Purple stumpwork butterfly RSN project yesterday. I'm in love with it! I think my tutor's teaching skills are evident in the finished product. Owen was a superb teacher, and the workbook he put together for each of our class members (plus the videos I shot during class) made it possible for me to recollect the steps necessary to properly finish it.

 

Brynwood Needleworks - My Red Spotted Purple Stumpwork Butterfly

 

I shared photos with my sister yesterday, who responded that she thought it was awesome, and added "Now, I imagine that you'll hold it in your hand outside, blow a breath into it, and it will flutter away." I think it was probably the nicest compliment anyone could have given me.

 

I sent these photos off to Owen, and look forward to his reaction. I took his class in July 2018, and I'm thrilled that I finally got it done. I hope he thinks I represent him well. Now to find that perfect cloche!

 

I'm So Close...

Brynwood Needleworks - RSN Butterfly Body Detail

 

I completed the butterfly body late yesterday afternoon. All the "chambers" have been embroidered in long and short stitch, with satin stitch in the areas above each chamber. All of this is stitched onto one layer of navy blue fabric, topped with a layer of black, gauzy fabric.

Brynwood Needleworks - RSN Butterfly Body - Pleating Areas

 

My next step is to pleat - or join by overstitching - the satin stitched area to the chamber above it. Those areas are unstitched (as pointed out by my red arrows). The unstitched areas will be pushed to the back as I pinch the stitched areas together, and then sew them in place. It will give more dimension to the butterfly's body in preparation for the rest of the process.

 

I'm hoping that tomorrow I'll be able to show you my completed butterfly. My goal is to join the wings, complete the body and add the antennae and legs today. Once that's accomplished, my butterfly will be finished.

Brynwood Needleworks - Butterfly Cloche Idea - Source Unknown

I've already decided how I want to display it, too. I went online to search "cloches", and found a photo of exactly what I have in mind! I want to set up a display cloche with my butterfly "mounted" inside. I may even embroider flowers, leaves, etc. as part of the display! That way, my class project will be protected from dust and hands - big and small. What do you think?

Please come back tomorrow to see whether or not I meet my goal, and whether or not I have a whole butterfly to share with you!

 

Almost Ready To Fly-And Party Time...

Brynwood Needleworks - RSN Butterfly Wings

See what I finished this past weekend? In this photo, I've already released the top wing parts from the ground fabric and trimmed them. The lower wings have been cut off the ground fabric, but are not yet trimmed.

Brynwood Needleworks - RSN Butterfly Wings - Completed!

 

All four wing parts are completed in this image, and will be set aside so I can prepare the body for assembly. I'll be working on the body today, and plan to have my completed butterfly ready to show you on Wednesday (after Tag's post tomorrow). 

I'm motivated to complete it now. I'm excited to be at this stage of the project, and can't wait to show you the whole butterfly, using all the techniques our tutor, Owen Davies, shared with us when I attended his classes. I hope you're as curious to see it as I am to show it to you!

The month of March is my blog anniversary month. This year, I'm celebrating ELEVEN years of daily blogging, sharing my creative (and sometimes personal) life with you. 

There are times that I wonder whether or not I should cut back on my posts, but then I remind myself that this was originally begun as a way for me to chronicle my life, like a personal diary. So, I'll keep posting every day. One thing that will change - beginning this month - is that I'm going to respond to your comments on the comment page, so if you come back (or turn on "notifications"), you'll see my messages back to you. Blogger no longer emails notices to me with your messages, so I'll answer your comments where you leave them.

Now for the fun part. To celebrate my blog anniversary, I'm going to have a sale in my online shop HERE. This sale is only for my blog readers and online friends on FaceBook. If you purchase a minimum $35, enter BWANNIVERSARY at checkout and receive 25% off your entire order as my thank you!

I'm also going to have a giveaway later in the month, so you won't want to miss that. I'll announce the giveaway on my actual anniversary date (March 15th). I want to celebrate!