One Stitch at a Time

You may not have noticed, but there are progress bars for my WIPs in the sidebar on the left. At one time, the list included Drawn Thread's Sampler Gameboard, but I removed it since I hadn't been working on it much. The usual story: other projects took my attention.

Every now and then, I'd stitch on gameboard. But I didn't have any momentum. I was getting frustrated because I didn't have all the colors I needed. Either I had run out of or misplaced them or I used them for other projects. During the summer, I realized I should put this design back in the rotation because I had already stitched a siginificant amount, as you can see in this photo.

So, I finally replaced those colors a couple of weeks ago and have been working on it again. I also reinstated the progress bars. I'm hopeful that Sampler Gameboard will become a finished object soon. I can't wait. This one is frame-worthy.

Another UFO that's been put back in the mix is Tuscany from John Clayton International. That's halfway done. Although not a UFO, I'm also making progress on Village of Hawk Run Hollow. I've completed two blocks and am working on a third.



Have you seen the latest: Christmas at Hawk Run Hollow. Who knows when I'll finish the village, but I had to own this chart. I'd love to start it but I'm controlling the urge -- for now.

Something Old, Something New

Now that autumn has arrived, I've been inspired to stitch something for Halloween. I found a small Bent Creek kit that I'd forgotten I'd had -- Hello, My Name is Boo. I stitched it in about a day and even did the little bit of finishing needed. The kit included the pre-made pillow, buttons and tag. So it was just a matter of sewing it up, and I was done.

Because Boo was such a small piece, it didn't completely satisfy my Halloween urge. So I pulled out a long-abandoned UFO -- Just Nan's Girls' Night Out. There was very little I had left to do: one over-one face, a little backstitching, the witches' hair, and the broom bristles.

As I was working on this, I was wondering why I had put it aside. Probably something else caught my attention. But I was really enjoying it, and feel a sense of accomplishment that I turned a UFO into a finished piece. Well, finished in terms of the stitching. I don't know if I'll do anything with it. Right now it is part of my Halloween display of cross-stitch that I hang on my shelves.

Renewed Hope for an old UFO

A while ago, I wrote about the potential for saving UFOs. One of the posts was about a kit I bought while on a trip to Paris. After stitching about a quarter of the design I realized that the fabric wasn't big enough. So, the piece was cast aside, never to be touched again. Well, on my recent trip to Paris, I had an "aha!" moment. Of course, a visit to Les Bonheur des Dames, one of my favorite places in Paris and where I bought the kit two years ago, was on the top of my list of things to do. Located under the archways of Le Viaduc des Arts on Avenue Daumesnil, the shop is spacious and carries many wonderful designs. I was particularly tempted by their tablecloth kits, but given the cost and the exchange rate, I resisted. (I happen to have a kit with that cup design that I could potentially use for a tablecloth. So many designs, not enough time...) Of course, I didn't resist everything that caught by eye. I bought a few things that will be gifts for friends throughout the year. For myself, I picked up Madame La Chef. It came packaged in a plastic egg with a whisk charm that was too cute to resist . . . and it was on sale. How could I pass it up?

Another wonderful thing about the shop is that they have tons of stitched models hanging on the walls. And the vaulted ceiling gives them loads of space for that. So I take my purchases to the cash register, and while the saleswoman is ringing everything up, I'm admiring all the models. Now, for the aha moment. Right behind the register are models of the seasonal designs of which Juillet, my abandoned piece, is one. Lo and behold, it hits me. They are all done over one. I'm sure you've guessed by now that I was stitching my kit over two. Of course, when I got home, I pulled out the kit. Right on the front it says "petit point," which of course, means stitch over one thread. What a silly mistake on my part. Oh well, c'est la vie. Now having seen those models and realizing my mistake makes me want to try again with this design. And I'm sure I can find a piece of fabric somewhere in my stash, ya think?

The Remains of a Cross-stitch Project

Happy dance! That's what we stitchers usually say when we've completed a project. It could mean anything from "Thank God this BAP (big-ass project) for my (insert relative or friend's name here) is finally done!" to "Yippee, It's done. Doesn't it look beautiful. I really enjoyed working on this one" to everything in between.

But once the celebrating is done and fellow stitchers or family members have ohhed and ahhed over your work, what happens to the leftover skeins of partially used floss and any beads or embellishments that were required?

I finished six cross-stitch projects in 2008. The most recent one was the May Santa from The Artists Collection Heartstrings Kringle Kalendar. This piece has some of my favorite elements -- Santa, bees/beehive and a checked border. I added the bees, which gives the piece a bit more whimsy.



Now for the leftovers from these projects. For the most part, they're still in the corresponding project bag, which is usually a plastic shopping or Ziploc bag. These bags sit with WIPs and UFOs either in the space between my sofa and bookcase or in a project basket in the living room. Recently, I tried to consolidate the unused skeins of DMC in one bag. (I was looking for DMC 3774 for May Santa.) Any leftover Weeks or Sampler Threads stayed in their bags. Clearly, some organization is needed. It's something I always plan to get around to, but new projects beckon and I'd rather be stitching..

Tell me what you do with the remains of your projects.

Boo!

Picked up the October issue of Just Cross Stitch. The designs usually aren't to my taste, so I rarely buy it. I do get the annual Christmas ornament issue, which some years is better than others. Halloween is the theme of the October issue, not surprisingly. But this is the first time they are featuring Halloween ornaments. There all quite cute, but my favorites are Mosey 'N Me's Trick or Treat Bee (a cat dressed as a bee); Monster Bubbles' Batty (a cute bat); Brittercup's Trick or Kitty Treat (a cat perched on a pumpkin eyeing a spider); Raise the Roof's Boo Whoo? (a fun owl); Jeannette Douglas Designs Halloween Pumpkin Ornament (Jeannette's characteristic specialty stitches with a row of spiders); and Prairie Schooler's Night Owl (obviously, an owl).

As cute as all of these are, I probably will not stitch them any time soon. I also bought October Spooks, a pillow sham from Pine Mountain Designs. These designs stitch up quickly and are fun to work on. The fact that it's a finished pillow is a bonus. So this will be my Halloween piece for this year. I'm also in the mood for stitching a Christmas design. I think I'll "shop" in my stash to see what hits me. I have quite a few Prairie Schooler charts that appeal to me but maybe there's a forgotten chart that will strike my fancy.

Here are photos of my framed "Once Upon a Time." This is one of the first pieces I ever stitched. I brought it with me on a trip to France in 1997, and stitched on it at the Medici Fountain in the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris, among other places.


I was such a novice to stitching on linen at the time, that I used a role of Charles Craft natural linen I bought at Michael's! I also had no clue about determining the fabric dimensions to make sure it was big enough for framing. And I bound off the edges with masking tape! (Ack!!) Luckily, Don from WVAS is a fabulous framer and had no problem dealing with it. I'm really pleased with how it turned out. Now, I need to decide the best place to hang it.

Progress Report: Knitting and Cross-stitch

I haven't been stitching or knitting too much over the past couple of months, but I have made some progress on some projects.

• Double moss stitch sock: One sock completed. Usually, I don't mind knitting second socks, but I'm a little bored with this one. I think I might start something else before I finish this pair. There are also several "design adjustments" (i.e., mistakes) in this one. But the variegated colorway is very forgiving.

Started: April, 2008
Yarn: Crystal Palace Panda Cotton in Roses

• Rivendell Sock (Brooklyn Sock Knit-a-Long III): Finished the leg on the first sock and have moved on to turning the heel. I think I've picked up too many stitches for the gusset. Following the directions, I knit the flap "to the depth of my heel." I think I've done something wrong, because I have twice as many picked up stitches (26) than the the directions mention. I need to rip out and try again.

Started: May, 2008
Yarn: Shelridge Farm Soft Touch Ultra in Toffee

• Village of Hawk Run Hollow: Still working on the first square, but it's coming along. Enjoying stitching this one.

Started: April, 2007
Fabric: Lakeside Linens 40 ct. Dune
Fibers: Needlepoint Silks

• Les Cerises (Bleu de Chine): Getting very close with this one.

Started: January, 2007
Fabric: 28 ct. Lambswool linen
Fibers: DMC

Pretty as a Picture

A few weeks back, I decided to treat myself by having a couple of my favorite cross-stitch finishes framed.

Here's Leaping Cat from La-D-Da stitched in 2005. I really enjoyed working on this. The cat is so cute. It was done on 36 ct Edinborough linen in Sand with Sampler Threads. I stitched the alphabet in Tarnished Gold instead of Gold Leaf as the chart called for so it would show up better. Now I have to decide where to hang it. It's sitting on my shelf for now.

The other piece that's being framed is one of the first I ever stitched on linen. Can't wait to see this one. The matting and frame that Don at WVAS chose are perfect and will look gorgeous.


Related post: To the Finish

Catching Up

New Project?
Not yet, but the current issue of Interweave Knits arrived today, and there are a couple of patterns I really like: the Ruched Shell and Henley Perfected. I may actually try the Ruched Shell. Although I like many sweater patterns, I'm put off right now by sleeves.

As an aside, I could have sworn that the model on the cover was Jennifer Garner. In some pics, the model is a deadringer for her, others, not so much.

Brooklyn Sock Knit-a-long II progress
Finished the first sock. I tried a picot bind-off but I'm not sure I really like it on this sock. It's also a little finicky because you have to knit into a stitch, move that stitch to the LH needle, knit into that stitch, etc. The yarn is a little split-y, too, so I had to redo stitches a few times because I wasn't knitting through the whole stitch. But I enjoyed using this yarn, and I really like the way the color variations came out. On to the second in the pair.

Related post: Second Brooklyn Sock Knit-a-Long -- MacGiver style

Oh, Canada!
Had a wonderful visit a few weeks ago with May. You know things are bad when you get to the airport 2 hours early and they've already delayed your flight. It just got worse from there. Thunderstorms and a deluge of rain was keeping everyone on the ground at LaGuardia. After about 7 hours, finally took off at midnight. We could have left sooner -- plane was there, had a crew, but ... no pilot. We had to wait for him to fly in from Chicago! Crazy. At least, the flight wasn't canceled.

The rest of the weekend was great, so it was worth it. Friday we spent the day shopping for cross-stitch and yarn. Saturday was knitting, stitching, munching -- much fun. Here's my stash enhancement report:

Cross-stitch:
Went to Gitta's, May's LNS. Nice shop, with a nice selection.

• Take Time to Stitch too (will embellishment pkg.) -- Jeannette Douglas Designs. Like many of her designs, but didn't want to spend too much. (Yeah, right.)
• Black and White tulip (#34940) -- Marjolein Bastin. There was a stitched model of a larger piece -- Black Tulips (#34840) -- that was amazing. The shading and detail made it so realistic. But decided to go for the smaller kit, which I think will be equally lovely.
• Cross-stitch booklets from Zweigart. I haven't seen these anywhere in the U.S., but outside the U.S. there are so many wonderful cross-stitch magazines and booklets with designs for making something -- placemats, a bag, potholders. The poppies and roses were my favorites.
  

Knitting:
First stop was Village Yarns. Great shop with many wonderful yarns to fondle and a great atmosphere. From the website:

We are about a 10 minute drive from Pearson International Airport and more than once an Airport Limousine has waited at our curb for a knitter to shop on the fly.

Worth it, if you can.

• Knitting Lace Triangles by Evelyn A. Clark -- The shopowner showed us a knitted sample from this book and it was beautiful. A must for the knitting library.
• Handmaiden Yarns Sea Silk -- It's a blend of silk and seacell. Don't know what that is, but it feels luscious. Had to have it and it's hand-dyed in Canada, so it's a souvenir. The color looks reddish purple in the photo, but it's really more bluish purple.
  

We went to another shop (can't remember the name), but I didn't buy anything there. It' s a huge shop and they have any standard yarn you could possibly want. Also lots of books, magazines and charts. It was sensory overload, by that point though.

The shop is on Queen Street West, where there is also a lovely Asian tearoom -- Red Tea Box
"for any Asian spin on afternoon tea.*" It's a great place for a light meal and tea. When you walk in, it's a little deceiving. There are only a few tables. But in the back through a small courtyard, there's another room which is delightful. The furniture is very eclectic, with mismatched chairs, tables and settees. We shared a pork sandwich and a bento box that had an assortment of small sandwiches and cakes, and a pot of Earl Grey tea. Everything was delicious. Interesting twist on the water they served. They put some slices of cantaloupe in it. Unusual, but not bad. They also let us sit there for quite some time while they were closing up.

*from the New York Times, requires free registration.

Fine Finishes

The pleasure of cross-stitch, for me, is in the process of stitching -- choosing a design, deciding on the fabric and fibers to use, watching the design take shape, and then seeing the final product. It's usually not my goal to frame a design or make it into something unless it's a gift.

Today's report includes three finishes: Chicken Wired, which was for the fun of it; Seaside Cottage, which is a gift; and Behold the Bee, which I finished stitching a couple of years ago but recently decided to have framed.

Chicken Wired by Whiskey Creek
I really enjoyed stitching this piece. The fox has such a mischievous expression and the "chicken wire" just makes the whole piece.



Here are the stats:

Started: July 8th
Completed: August 25th
Fabric: 28 ct. Chestnut linen
Fibers: DMC and Kreinick #4 braid for the chicken wire

Seaside Cottage by Elizabeth's Designs
Although I finished stitching this in July, I just picked up the framed piece from Tawny's yesterday. I didn't include the charms because I forgot to bring them with me when I dropped it off to be framed. I was planning to stitch them on before I handed it off. Even so, I'm very pleased with how this turned out and think Janet will love it.



Started: April
Completed: July
Fabric: 32 ct. Storm Cloud from the Blended Needle
Fibers: DMC, Weeks Dye Works

Behold the Bee by Chessie and Me
This is one of my favorite designs from one of my favorite designers. It was my New Year's Day project for 2004. The Metrostitchers have a tradition of starting a new project on New Year's day, regardless of how many WIPs you may have. Although I completed the stitching a couple of years ago, I decided to treat myself and have it framed. I think it deserves the honor.



Begun: Jan. 1, 2004
Completed: February 21, 2004
Fabric: 32 ct Vintage Nutmeg from Lakeside Lines
Fibers: Sampler Threads

A Weekend Excursion

It was just supposed to be a relaxing weekend by the shore. Really. Sure I knew that we'd be visiting a couple of needlework shops, but I could control myself. Maybe buy just one or two. Really, all I wanted to do was look at the ocean, relax and sit and stitch. Yes, really.
Theresa and I set off for Cape May, New Jersey, on Friday. We were meeting our friend, Carol, who was driving up from Maryland. Theresa and Carol have been making this trip for the past couple of years so that Theresa could deliver the Metrostitchers' submissions to Carol for the Montpelier Needlework show opening July 13. This year they invited me to come along. On the drive down, we were planning to stop at the Cranberry Cupboard in Westmost near Philadelphia. We have met Paula, the shopowner, and wanted to visit her. It's a lovely shop filled with lots of new charts and quite a selection of older ones, too. Paula has many lovely models hanging up, all of which she's stitched herself.

As I wandered around the shop, I decided it would be nice to get a kit for a small project since I had brought two larger WIPs that I might want a break from. I found a Shephard's Bush kit called Busy Sheep with sheep and bees that would be perfect. It also was on sale so how could I pass it up? (You see where I'm heading here, right?) Let me cut to the chase here and tell you what else I bought:

• Haunted Wool by Kit & Bixby-- acheckerboard sheep, a Halloween cat, haunted mansion and jack o'lanterns
• Mermaid's Singing by The Workbasket -- I liked that it uses colors I don't normally stitch with
• Santa in the Country by By the Bay Needleart -- love Santa scenes

Okay, it's more than I was planning to buy, but not too much damage. So I check out. We continue chatting with Paula for a bit. I take another turn around the shop and come across this:

Chicken Wired from Whiskey Creek

The fox on the stitched model was so adorable. And lately, I've been drawn to roosters and chickens, sooo... off to the register I went. But then I got it in my head to buy the DMC and fabric so I could start it over the weekend. Yes, I know, I bought the Shepherd's Bush kit for that purpose, but this fox was just calling to me. So I checked out again, doing slightly more damage.
Finally, we leave. It's late by the time we make it to Cape May. So we drop off our bags at the B&B, go to dinner and call it a night.

Blame it on the heatAfter breakfast on Saturday, I walk down to the beach. It's sunny and warm but there's a nice breeze. I sit on the promenade for a bit, then decide to walk around and "window" shop. I wander in and out of a few tacky souvenir shops and jewelry shops, but there's not temptation there. Then on to a Christmas shop. DANGER, DANGER. I not only love to stitch Santas and Christmas-themed pieces, I also collect Santas. The shop had wonderful Christmas ornaments and I bought a couple -- a Santa and sleigh pulled by a cow, sheep, pig, and duck and a Santa on skates holding two owls -- both very cute. I also picked up an Eiffel Tower ornament which I taunted Theresa with so much that she had to buy herself one the next day.

There were also a number of beautiful Santa figurines. Too many to chose from -- almost. I just couldn't resist this one.


When I bought it, I didn't realize that there was a secret compartment in the base. And in it is a rolled up list for Santa! Now how cute is that?


After lunch and a little more window shopping, it was back to the B&B for some stitching. We sat on the porch to stitch, but the sun was beating down that it was just too hot. We moved to the gazebo which as a little better. At least we were out of the sun. I attempted to start Chicken Wired, but after frogging three times I gave up. No stitching for me.

We decided we'd head over to Stitch by Stitch before dinner. Sharon, the shop owner, is very fun and friendly. And her shop is chock full of charts, old and new. Need I say that my tepid resolution of buying only one or two charts was thrown by the wayside by this time? Here's what I bought:

• Seasonal Motif I and II, and Brotherly Love (a kit) by Brittercup Designs
• Jewel and Ruby by Art Stitch
• One-Sheep Open Sleigh by Waxing Moon Designs
• Pumpkin Patch and 2007 Santa (He knits!) by The Prairie Schooler
• By the Seaside by Needle Crossings -- a local Cape May designer

• Parisian Panache in Cross Stitch from Leisure Arts -- Besides the Eiffel Tower, there's a chart for fishnet stockings that is too precious.
• American School of Needlework book of Colorful Borders -- I couldn't pass up the checkerboard chickens.

What can I say? I'm weak. I admit it. If I could, I'd stitch every one of these. If only I had enough life times.

The weekend wasn't a total spendthrift holiday. After three weeks, I finally kicked my bronchitis cough. I owe it to the sea air -- and maybe the shopping. ;-)

A Small Thing

Sometimes it's fun to stitch up something small and quick. Something you can finish in one session for some instant gratifications. Last night, I wanted to stitch but didn't feel like working on any of the WIPs. I had picked up a small kit from Kitty Kat Originals yesterday at Tawny's, so I decided to work on that. It only took a couple of hours, but I think he's cute. I'll add it to my Fourth of July display in a couple of weeks.

Brooklyn Socks and Village Progress

When my friend Alison and I got together a couple of weeks ago for some knitting, the subject of sock clubs and Socks that Rock came up. I was considering joining one, but Alison had a great idea -- we could have our own club. We'd decide on a pattern and yarn and have a sock knit-along. Since Alison had just been to Maryland Sheep and Wool ("Brief Report" post on May 7), she had some delicious yarns to choose from. And she had a pattern for us in mind. So off I went to buy some yarn. At Alison's suggestion, I choose the Soft Touch 100% Wool Ultra Fingering Weight from Shelridge Farms. With such beautiful colors, it was difficult to choose one. So I bought two -- Pumpkin and Clover Flower. Alison has Azure, I believe. We both like knitting toe-up socks with short-row toes and heels so we decided that's how we'd do the first pair.

As soon as Alison sent me the sock pattern, I got started using the Pumpkin. Over the last week, I was able to finish the toe and one and a half pattern repeats. Alison came over yesterday and started her sock, completing the toe shaping. Here's are progress so far. Alison's yarn is more blue than it appears in this photo, and mine isn't as red. By the way, I really don't have giant feet. It seems I'm loose, er, I mean "relaxed," with the knitting needles. My stitches aren't very even, either. Alison's are so neat and tidy. I'm using size 0 dpns ,and Alison is using size 1s.

This pattern has a bit of an unusual twist -- the sock can be worn knitted side out (as you see here) or inside out which reveals a completely different, very fun design. I'm going to keep the inside design a secret until I finish the first sock. So stay tuned.

Under Construction -- Village of Hawk Run Hollow
Itching to Stitch commented on my last post that I hadn't updated my progress on Village of Hawk Run Hollow recently. I'm still working on the church block, but I'm missing some NPS. Until I get them, progress will be a little stalled.

Make sure you check out Itching's blog. She does beautiful work. In addition to VofHRH, she's also tackling Chatelaine's St. Petersburg White Nights -- gorgeous.

Five Cross-Stitching Accessories Every Stitcher Should Have

Let's face it, the only tools a cross-stitcher really needs are needles and a good pair of embroidery scissors. But there are many more available that can enhance the experience and may even improve the quality of your stitching.

Of course, everyone has their personal favorites. When one goes missing or is on the fritz, that day's stitching can be hellish. But these are the five -- and the specific brands -- that I consider must-haves:

1. K's Creations LaPetite Lap Frame -- This balanced, light-weight frame rests comfortably and securely on your lap and is ideal for stitchers who use Q-snaps or scroll frames. Since I prefer using the stabbing method rather than sewing in hand, There's no need to hold the frame, which leaves both hands free for stitching. I'm right-handed, so I pass the needle up through the fabric with my right-hand positioned below the project, then down through the fabric with my left-hand above. This allows me to stitch more quickly since I use the stabbing method rather than sewing in-hand. I have the clamp attachment for Q-snaps, but you can choose an attachment for scroll frames, if you prefer. The knobs securing both the clamp and frame arm are easily adjusted so you can position your work properly. The frame easily holds 8x8 or 8x11 Q-snaps. Other models are available for larger frames and projects.
2. Q-Snaps -- Lightweight, easy to assemble and less expensive than scroll frames, Q-snaps are a popular choice among cross-stitchers. I find they kept the fabric much tauter than scroll frames. And because the pipes are interchangeable, a set of 8x8s and 11x11s accommodate practically any size project. I prefer to use combinations of these sizes even for larger projects. I just place the Q-Snaps in the area I'm working on and fold the excess under the clamps or roll it up secured with binder clips. For smaller projects, I use 6x6s.
   
3. Help-n-Hand Chart Holder -- Keeps charts upright and at hand. It works best with Q-Snaps, and can be positioned either on the top or sides of the frame.
   
4. Fingertip Trolley Needle (or laying tool) -- I use this to smooth threads so that each strand lays side-by-side. Some wear it on their thumbs, but I prefer it on my left-hand middle finger. I've heard stitchers express concern that they may accidentally poke themselves in the eye. I've never had that problem. It just takes a little practice to get accustomed to having it on your finger.
5. Ott-Light -- Proper lighting has become more essential with age. Especially when working on smaller count fabric. A good light and a pair of magnifiers, and I'm good to go.
   

Stitcher's (and Knitter's) Lament: Sometimes You Make Progress and Sometimes You Don't

Seaside Cottage: On Track

It's coming along swimmingly. (Of course, if it was a bricks-and-mortar cottage that wouldn't be a good thing.) The couple I'm making this for is getting married at the end of August. I'm not worried about getting it done in time because Elizabeth Designs stitch up so quickly. The leaves on the trees will be satin stitches. There'll be a lighthouse (also done with satin stitches) on the right. Then a bit more on the sand, some flowers and it's done. Plenty of time to finish stitching and get it framed.


Bind-off Stand-off
I'm not happy with the progress on the toe-up socks. On one hand (or should that be foot?), one sock is finished. On the other, I completely botched the bind-off. Referring to Nancy Bush's Simple Socks, I attempted a K2P2 bind-off. I knew I really wasn't getting it, but I kept going. Big mistake. When I was done, I couldn't get the sock pass my toes. I painstakingly ripped the bind-off out. But I'm rather disgusted with the darn thing. I dropped a couple of stitches and in a moment of insanity, I cut the yarn. I'm not sure I have a long enough tail to try again. (Actually, I'm positive I don't have enough). It should be okay if I rip out a couple of rows. I'll have a shorter leg, but at least it'll be done.



Learn Something New

When all else fails, learn something new. I think that'll be my new motto.

A couple of months ago, I bought some yarn which I was planning to use for a scarf. So, I decided it was time to wind it to prepare for starting this project. (Do I need to start another one? I'm sure you know the answer to that.) Ever since Alison had shown me the center-pull ball she made, I wanted to try it, too. A quick Google brought me to these instructions, which are very clear and easy to follow. In no time, I had a center-pull ball of yarn. It's nice and solid, and I like that the bottom is flat so that the ball doesn't roll around.

This morning, I started the Multi-directional Scarf by Karen Baumer. It starts with a cast-on of one stitch, increasing one stitch each row until one side of the triangle measures about 5 inches (or to whatever width you want the scarf). So far, so good. The directions suggest using the recommended size needles for the yarn chosen to create a more solid look. That would be size 9 or 10 for this Avalon yarn. Or go up one size for a looser look. I decided to go with the inexpensive, plastic size 10 circular needles I have on hand. Not exactly luxe, but I should still end up with a nice scarf.

Confessions of a Stash Collector

A few years ago when PDAs became popular, I purchased a Handspring Visor. I used it for obvious things like the calendar, address book, reminder notes, etc. But what I really loved was being able to keep track of my stitching stash.

At the time, other stitchers were creating databases, called tinybites, for fibers and fabrics. You could mark off what you had, in say, DMC, so you always knew what you were missing or needed to replace. This was really handy when you wanted to kit a new project or just happened to find yourself in a needlework store. I even customized a database that I used to inventory all of my charts, WIPs and finished projects. My Visor became an invaluable tool.

Then one day, it all ended. My batteries were running low and I foolishly put off replacing them. Big mistake. They eventually went completely dead -- and I lost all my data. I know what you're thinking. Why didn't you backup the data? I did when I had an iMac. Then I bought a PC. By that time, Visor was defunct. I think Palm took it over. Although I searched around, I couldn't find anything that would let me back up on Windows XP. Then the batteries went kaput.

The State of the Stash
I decided I didn't want to invest in a new PDA, so I no longer have any system for keeping track of stash. That's unfortunate since I don't have the most organized stash collection. Some things are better than others. Charts are relatively organized, threads, not so much.

With that, here's a snapshot of the sorry state of my stash:

Charts
My charts are alphabetically filed in five large binders, which works well when I'm looking for a particular design I know I own. Not having an inventory can be a problem when shopping. though. If I'm looking at recently released designs, I know I don't already own them, so no problem there. But if I'm looking at, say, Prairie Schooler charts, which I own a lot of, it's a little trickier. The last time I was at Tawny's, there were a couple of older Prairie Schooler charts I was considering, but I wasn't sure if I had them or not. I decided not to buy them, which isn't such a bad thing since I have so much already.

But here's a confession about the binder filing system: I haven't keep it up-to-date for at least a couple of years. I have a shopping bag full of charts that have yet to be filed or need to be refiled.

When I kept an electronic inventory, even if the chart didn't make it into one of the binders, I would enter it into the database so I always knew what I had. Since I don't plan to buy a new PDA, I may just have to resort to good old-fashioned pen and paper to keep track of things. I certainly have enough small notebooks that could easily fit into a purse for a shopping excursion.

Fabric
I don't have a huge fabric stash, so it's not essential to inventory it. Whatever I have is kept in a storage bin. When I'm looking for a fabric to start a new project, I can easily paw through the bin. I don't feel compelled to use the exact fabric a design calls for. But sometimes, like in the case of The Village of Hawk Run Hollow, I purchased the recommended fabric. Not so much because of the color but because of the size. For 40 count, a 27" by 20" is needed, which I knew I didn't have. Lakeside Linen provided custom cuts for this design, so I bought one.

Fibers:
I own almost a complete set of DMC, a significant amount of Sampler Threads and Weeks Dye Works, various Silk 'n Threads and Gloriana silks, and a few miscellaneous skeins of other brands. I started out trying to keep them organized, using the baggie system. I like the baggies, especially because it helps to keep partially used skeins tidy.

But here's where things start to break down -- the majority of the fibers I own have never made it into those baggies with the nice neat little labels.

It can be very tedious to sort through this jumble looking for threads I need for a project. With the Visor, even though these threads weren't organized, everything was recorded in the database. I still had to sort through this mess, but at least I knew what I had and didn't have.

I really need to bite the bullet and get all of this sorted. It shouldn't take too long, if I just chip away at it little by little -- a handful or two every couple of days. We'll see.

Final Confession
Now for the worst of it. What do you do with your project bag when you've finished a project? Here's what I do:

Into the basket graveyard they go. Most of this is UFOs. (Maybe one day I'll get back to them.) But there are also project bags from finished projects with charts and threads or kit packs that were never refiled. When I'm looking for threads, I sometimes ransack these bags, including the UFOs. Of course, if I ever go back to any of the unfinished projects, I'll have to fish around to find all those threads borrowed from Peter to save Paul.

It would be nice to have a craft room with a place for everything. For now, though, it's shoe boxes, plastic bins and baskets. With a little more effort, maybe that wouldn't be so bad.

Can This Project Be Saved?

Part II: “I can’t forgive the constant flirting with newer projects.”

No two projects are alike. With some, you’re happy to put in the time, and can take the project to completion. Others prove to be more difficult. Often abandoned for greener pastures. In the second installment in the series, we look at how a stitcher can be lured away from a long-term commitment to a project and what it might take to bring them back together. We’ll hear from both sides –- stitcher and project –- and get expert advice from the project therapist who will determine if this project can be saved.

The Project’s Turn (Drawn Thread’s Sampler Game Board): It was a wonderful beginning. We went away for a stitching retreat at Wyndham. I was honored that my stitcher picked me out from her extension stash to go on a stitching retreat in Connecticut. I knew she had other projects in the works that were still hanging around – Spot of Tea II from Samplers and Such, which was very close to being done, but never made it; and Girls Night Out from Kreinik, a kit with Milkpaint silks, which were all the rage for a time but you never hear about them now. It didn’t matter to me. I knew I had a lot to offer – I’m a game board with 32 houses and an equal number of wonderful motifs, including a pretty terrific bee. There was no question in my mind that I could keep her interest.
Sure we had some time apart. What stitcher and project don’t? At first, it was for little things: a bee scissor fob, and a string of Bent Creek designs -- Eagle on an Egg, Pop!, A.Bee.C. But then there were more substantial pieces coming between us: La-D-Da’s Leaping Cat, that little French number, Coeur de Provence, from Rouge du Rhin (both of which were completed but are nowhere to be found) and a Chessie and Me Christmas ornament. And that's just in one year!

We started to grow apart. There were longer and longer stretches of time when she didn't bother with me. For awhile, I was relegated to a traveling project, as big as I am. It became a “tradition” to stitch me on occasional trips to Stitching Pretty in Maryland. Even that stopped eventually. Oh, she’d pick me up now and then because she felt guilty, but I can’t remember the last time she did.

The Stitcher’s Turn: I haven’t given up on the Game Board. I know I haven’t worked on it for a long time, and there have been many, many others along the way. But I still think of it as a WIP, not a UFO. It’s not the Game Board’s fault. It has everything I love. I really have no excuse. I want to work it out.

The Project Therapist’s Turn: I think these two have a real chance. But the stitcher really has to make an effort to include Sampler Game Board. I recommend that they set aside an hour to two a week to get reacquainted. It may take some time, but I think they can make it to the end.

What I Did on My Spring Vacation

The joys of not working for a week and a half...I read a book, started another and made progress on new projects.

By the Sea
First up -- Seaside Cottage by Elizabeth's Designs. I decided to substitute fabric from my stash for the 32 ct. Confederate Gray called for. I chose an overdyed from the now defunct Blended Needle -- 32 ct. Storm Cloud. I think it works well for a sky and water effect.

This is working up quite fast and I expect to have it done in time since it is a gift. My manager is getting married at the end of August and is having the wedding at a cottage on Cape Cod. I'm planning on adding their names, the date and Cape Cod, Massachusetts, to make this piece a nontraditional wedding sampler. I'm either going to have it framed or mounted in a Sudberry or Old Colonial box.


The Dark Side of the Moon I also started Lunar Harvest. This is on 32 ct. Navy linen. I'm glad that the moon is mostly in DMC 3047, light yellow-beige, rather than grays. It's more pleasant to look at. Stitching on dark fabric is always a challenge, but the weave on this linen is a bit loose which makes is easier to see the holes. My eyes are also getting adjusted so I'm not minding it too much. Again, this is working up quickly, and is a gift for my niece. I don't normally stitch gifts but I seem to be in a giving mood right now. ;-)




What's afoot
Socks are coming along nicely. I had turned the heel then realized I dropped a stitch. Annoying, but it didn't take long to rip out the heel, pick up the stitch and re-turn the heel.

The yarn-stealing cats managed to get into by bag at one point and lost one of the dpns. (Much to my dismay, I'm sure I'll find it one day when I step on the pointy end). I'm now working the sock with 4 needles instead of 5. It doesn't seem to be making a difference, but it is easier to knit with 5 needles.

Looking at this, I'm wondering if I've started the cuff ribbing too soon. I should look at one of my reference books before I go any further.

Book Bag
Indulged myself by buying some books during vacation:

My Life in France by Julia Child
Julia Child's memoir, written with her grand nephew, about how she began her career as a French cook, author and TV cooking show host. I enjoyed reading about her journey and love of French cooking. I'd like to get Mastering the Art of French Cooking and try some recipes.

The Last Templar by Raymond Khoury
Just started this and it grabbed me right away. Great opening: four horseman dressed as Knights Templar ride down Fifth Avenue to the Metropolitan Museum of Art for the gala opening of a Vatican Treasures exhibit to wreak havoc and steal an ancient decoder device. Who hired them? What secrets will the device uncover? Can't wait to find out.

The Sign of the Cross by Chris Kuzneski
Another thriller with an ancient conspiracy theme.

Emperor (Time's Tapestry Book One) by Stephen Baxter
Seems to have elements I enjoy -- alternative history, generational saga, Roman and British empires. Only book one, so I'll have to see if it's a series I'll continue.

The Knitting Answer Book by Margaret Radcliffe
Picked this up in Michael's. It's always good to have a reference guide handy. It helped me figure out how to fix the dropped stitch in my sock.

Wish I had several more weeks to indulge my stitching, knitting and reading, but it's back to reality tomorrow.