tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52099074674425261972024-03-19T04:41:23.421-04:00Summer House Stitche WorkesBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.comBlogger65125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-57690405630730211472019-03-15T16:11:00.000-04:002019-03-15T16:11:03.335-04:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Finishing Tutorial for Fun & Fancy Free Sewing Roll</b></div>
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You are finished stitching the three pieces of the Fun & Fancy Free series and you are just not sure how to finish them. Hopefully this little tutorial will help you to complete them into a sewing roll. The model was stitched on three different linens, all the same thread count, 32 count. The tutorial will assume that three parts are stitched on three separate linen pieces, all 32 count.<br />
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In addition to the three stitched pieces, you will need fusible interfacing, cotton fabric and a ribbon for tie. A sewing machine will make the seams and hemming go much faster, but they can be done by hand if that is your preference.<br />
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1. Press the stitched pieces.<br />
2. Trim the stitched pieces as follows. Assumes you are looking at stitched side of fabric.<br />
1. On part #1, trim 1" away from stitches on top, bottom and left hand side. Trim 1/2" away from stitching on right hand side.<br />
2. On part #2, trim 1" away from stitches on top and bottom. Trim 1/2" away from stitching on both left and right hand sides.<br />
3. On part #3, trim 1" away from top, bottom and right hand sides. Trim 1/2" away from stitching on left hand side.<br />
3. Cut three pieces of fusible interfacing: 7 1/4" x 5 1/2". As per manufacturer's instructions, apply to back of stitched pieces, covering the stitching. The fusible will be slightly smaller, than stitched area, that is fine.<br />
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4. With a 1/2" seam allowance and with right sides together, connect all three pieces of stitching, aligning the cross stitches that form a continuous pattern. **Tip** - If you are having problems getting the cross stitches to match up exactly, stitch a "mini" seam right at the connecting points and then go back and stitch the entire seam length.</div>
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5. Press seams open to help distribute the bulk for the hemming step.</div>
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6. Choosing & Cutting the Backing Fabric. You will need to cut a piece of cotton backing fabric 25 1/4" x 9 1/2". For the model, I used cotton fabric from Molly B's Studio by Marcus Fabrics, design # 4636-0116. When deciding on a backing fabric, I like to pull many options out to see what gives the look I am going for. The backing fabric, especially when part of it shows on the front as in this case, can really change the overall effect of the final piece. The following photos show how different colors of backing fabric highlight different areas of stitching. </div>
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If I am having a hard time deciding on a fabric to use, because I am loving them all, I will clip or pin the fabrics around the stitched piece and take photos with my phone. Then I go back and review the photos and it really helps to isolate the piece to make the final decision. In this case, I used Fabric #3. Note how just the little bit of the cotton fabric color can change the overall appearance of the piece.<br />
7. Press cotton fabric and then cut fusible for the cotton fabric, 25" x 9". Center fusible on back of cotton fabric and adhere according to manufacturer's instructions.<br />
8. With WRONG sides together, center stitched piece on top of cotton fabric. Pin in place. You should have 1" of cotton fabric around all of stitched piece. Baste the two pieces together, 1/4" away from edge of cross stitched piece.<br />
9. Hemming sides. Take the edge of cotton fabric, fold to edge of linen, then fold that piece up and over the linen. Pin or clip in place. **Tip** - I like to use Wonderclips when hemming! Work around entire piece, until it is prepared for hemming. Mitre the corners!! Stitch a 3/8" hem. Removing pins or clips as you stitch.<br />
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10. Choose a coordinating ribbon for the tie. I used a vintage grosgrain that is 1 1/2" wide. Cut the ribbon to a 28" length. Fold the ribbon in half and tack to left hand side of stitching in hem seam. </div>
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11. You are all finished! You may want to give it another press, just to finish it to perfection. Be sure to press on the cotton side or use a press cloth if pressing over the needlework. Roll the sewing roll up and put into your stitching basket for a future stitch reference. Enjoy!!<br />
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Happy Stitching!! BethBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-26168879406516869482015-06-09T15:36:00.004-04:002015-06-09T15:36:48.251-04:00Inspiration piece for The Gift Keeps Giving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I thought I would share with you the inspiration piece behind my "The Gift Keeps Giving" chart. My daughter found this vintage 1928 tablecloth in a linen bin in an antique shop in Upstate New York last fall. She sent me a photo and said, "What do you think?" I sent her back a text asking for the price. She replied with a "knock me over with a feather" low price and I said, "Buy it!" She said, "I already did!" Boy, did I teach her well or what!! Once I had the tablecloth in hand, I couldn't quite decide how I wanted to proceed. I thought if I reproduced the entire piece, it would just be too large. Not to mention, the writing is in Old German, so it wouldn't have a lot of meaning for a person to stitch. I finally decided to just use the piece for inspiration.<br />
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Once you let yourself veer from the original, your imagination can just take off. So, that is what I did. I could translate the gist of the writing from my limited German. I could decipher that the tablecloth was a gift from an aunt to her niece. My guess it was a favorite niece, since both of their names were Maria. I could also gather that the wording contained a blessing. From my study of old samplers, I knew that many girls created their samplers from pieces that older family members had created, so that is the direction I took for the sampler. The storyline in my head was the niece, Maria Maurer created her sampler from motifs on her aunt's tablecloth. The tablecloth contained letters from two different alphabets, an Old English Blackletter and a script. I chose the Old English as the dominant font and sprinkled a few of the script letters for added interest.</div>
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For the sampler and needle book, I used Astilbe floss* from Dragonflylotus Designs. This is a hand-spun (hand-dyed) one ply silk. I have had requests for other flosses that I would recommend, so here is a list. Of course any red will do. I like the idea of a variegated red, one that covers the spectrum from light to dark. That way the result is a good aged look with the lighter pink colors, just like the color had been bleached from the sun or many washings.<br />
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If you would like to stay with a silk:</div>
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167 - The Kimberly (Dinky Dyes)</div>
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205 Carmine Rose (Gloriana) - this is a little pinker than original</div>
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248 Dutch Red (Gloriana) - the red is a little browner </div>
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For a cotton floss:</div>
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0511 Country Redwood (GAST) - red is a little more on the browner side and doesn't get real pinky</div>
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7036 Geranium (GAST) - pretty good match</div>
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190 Lady Bug (Classic Colorworks)</div>
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2263 Begonia (Weeks)</div>
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*Just a note about the yardage listed on the chart. I used 3 - 25 yd. skeins of the Astilbe floss. The 25 yd. skeins are no longer available, the increment is now 10 yd. skeins. You will need approximately 75 yds. or 8 - 10 yd. skeins. My apologies for any confusion. </div>
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For the Lone Elm Lane Shaker box top, I used Cayenne from Weeks Dye Works for the floss. This is a beautiful color of red and the sampler would look lovely stitched in it as well. I hope you enjoyed the inspiration tablecloth and have fun stitching the chart! </div>
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Always be stitching,</div>
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Beth</div>
Beth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-43420433226551766812015-02-10T14:50:00.000-05:002015-03-24T15:45:13.413-04:00Postcards from the Heart - assembly video<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi Stitching Friends!<br />
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I have created a video tutorial, so you can see how I have assembled my "Postcards from the Heart." The feature "Postcard" is Home, which will be released at the end of April. I hope you enjoy.<br />
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All my Best,<br />
Beth<br />
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<a href="https://youtu.be/DkFmBTWohmM" target="_blank">YouTube video - Postcards from the Heart - finish assembly tutorial</a><br />
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Some suggested "found objects" to add to your "Postcards"<br />
• Cancelled stamps<br />
• Ribbon/Trim/Rick-Rack/Lace/Fabric<br />
• Yo-yo's/Wool Pennys<br />
• Buttons/Sewing Notions/Needle Packs<br />
• Charms<br />
• Old Letters/Poems/Pages from old books<br />
• Typewriter Keys<br />
• Game Pieces - Dominos/Scrabble tiles<br />
• Skeleton Keys<br />
• Outdoor house address letters/numerals<br />
• Bottle cap<br />
• Natural pieces - feather/acorn/pinecone/shell<br />
• Old wallpaper<br />
• Watch fob/Clockface<br />
• Photographs/slides/viewmaster reels<br />
• Old Jewelry - pins/bracelets/earrings<br />
• Souvenirs - ticket fobs/old advertising/mapsBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-88574087748333090682014-04-22T20:11:00.000-04:002014-04-22T20:11:22.359-04:00Correction on Rebecca's PrimerHi Stitchers!<br />
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I wanted to let you know about a correction on Rebecca's Primer that has been brought to my attention. The symbols for Mustard Seed and Dark Chocolate are reversed on the floss key. My apologies for the mistake.<br />
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All my best,<br />
BethBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-82113691793780840832014-02-20T12:33:00.003-05:002014-02-20T12:33:29.265-05:002014 Nashville Releases<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hi Stitching Friends!</div>
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The Nashville Market was completely awesome this year! We ended up leaving from home a day early and driving a different route to avoid the "Pax" storm, but were so glad that we didn't miss the show. It is always so inspiring to see everything new that is happening in our industry and to talk and visit with old friends and make new friends. So, without further ado, here are my new releases!<br />
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Sakura</h4>
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Sakura is a continuation of my Baltimore Bride series. And like her sisters, Sylvania and Corona, she is a fun whimsical design. Sakura, as her name implies, features a nosegay of cheery, cherry blossoms bursting from the center of the design. This series takes inspiration from Baltimore Quilt structure. I mixed things up a bit in Sakura by taking the circle and breaking it into quadrants and turning them outward. She was stitched on 28 count Doubloon Cashel linen from Picture This Plus using DMC floss and framed in an East Side Mouldings frame. Here is a close up look!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9L939MZ2tbLJ4e4qA22EUjWgi52rU7qPGMde_vitGhnzz5YEERhf3mrAdIMCOCxge3WP6xJu7qDv_aeqSlabo9L0G6E1ikQbkRXXNC-9V3Iao8d0wsfSBsNhnNegiL7O-t-348k4CxI/s1600/sakura-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9L939MZ2tbLJ4e4qA22EUjWgi52rU7qPGMde_vitGhnzz5YEERhf3mrAdIMCOCxge3WP6xJu7qDv_aeqSlabo9L0G6E1ikQbkRXXNC-9V3Iao8d0wsfSBsNhnNegiL7O-t-348k4CxI/s1600/sakura-web.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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Love Is...</div>
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I tried something a little different this year and offered a limited edition kit to the shops that attended Market. I hope you are one of the lucky ones whose shop picked up a few kits, as they completely sold out! The sweet little pin cushion kit comes with everything you need for completion, except the stuffing. It includes 30 count Straw linen from Weeks, a full skein of Currant floss from The Gentle Art, backing fabric, chart and instructions for completion and the best part, a skeleton key, which you attach to the braided floss fob. It is a great little piece to remind us that Love Is... the key, the answer, all we need!</div>
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A Bee in Your Bonnet</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHShi72zdjBfo1OsJm9yJLwQpvJN0wzmNJ3St3bogsnsu4XrePHMvrwXZFlWJicA4tIvPZ5BmKoOX_OosZcrbvbSgBPWECDA31dOC3LQCgA1Eo_ikb5mvjc6qaANzUB1Rhw2wWlkvg0qA/s1600/BeeBonnet-full-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHShi72zdjBfo1OsJm9yJLwQpvJN0wzmNJ3St3bogsnsu4XrePHMvrwXZFlWJicA4tIvPZ5BmKoOX_OosZcrbvbSgBPWECDA31dOC3LQCgA1Eo_ikb5mvjc6qaANzUB1Rhw2wWlkvg0qA/s1600/BeeBonnet-full-web.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sometimes when I am designing something, I just can't wait to start stitching it and that was the case with A Bee in Your Bonnet. I, like so many other stitchers, just have this thing about bees, maybe it is because they represent the good things in life. Their hives are found out of doors, flowers are their haunts and they are always just so industrious. And we can not talk about bees without mentioning the fruit of their labor, honey, a wonderful ingredient in so many delectable recipes. So we stitch our odes to bees. The main chart in the leaflet is stitched on 32 count Beige linen from Weeks Dye Works with floss from The Gentle Art. No, I did not make a typo, 32 count from Weeks is correct. Weeks has introduced some new thread counts to their linen line-up. Very exciting and the fabric was wonderful to stitch on. Frame is also new offering from East Side Mouldings, their Crazy Daisy moulding. The hive is stitched in Algerian Eye stitch and it gives just a bit of texture to the piece. Here is a close up.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqKD39bECQqLhjfgV86I-8DxLem5HovjK1bnaYMPT7Mjy_W8wUaX3EC1FJSMqzfRBJ5tcv0-Knp1zWl_wBpweGjKxU_Oj2b713KFGzhqGHRQR4jr34-itPzFjITOhlq1X62pGVTQOb9UM/s1600/BeeBonnet-closeup-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqKD39bECQqLhjfgV86I-8DxLem5HovjK1bnaYMPT7Mjy_W8wUaX3EC1FJSMqzfRBJ5tcv0-Knp1zWl_wBpweGjKxU_Oj2b713KFGzhqGHRQR4jr34-itPzFjITOhlq1X62pGVTQOb9UM/s1600/BeeBonnet-closeup-web.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Land of Milk and Honey is the second project in the leaflet. I finished it into a sweet cross body purse. Finishing instructions are included, so you can do the same. I stitched it on 40 count Strawflower linen from Lakeside Linens with floss from The Gentle Art. I donated my purse model to The Great Model Giveaway at Market. Dianna & Liz from Fancy Works in Bloomington, IN was the lucky shop to go home with the model. So, if you are anywhere near their shop, go check it out!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3KuVXUl6xAcKFjU2vZVFx0s9PEwL9nSU9KUDiAMVepgP__8TPMlAX45JCcmt3mV-OxIqRXEpa4eq08-Y9P7oBV67SYOBiJR4g1Q_S0cgKRSa1y4AB9Q9OhkwF-YweHd_INC5-2Np638I/s1600/milkandhoney-adj-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3KuVXUl6xAcKFjU2vZVFx0s9PEwL9nSU9KUDiAMVepgP__8TPMlAX45JCcmt3mV-OxIqRXEpa4eq08-Y9P7oBV67SYOBiJR4g1Q_S0cgKRSa1y4AB9Q9OhkwF-YweHd_INC5-2Np638I/s1600/milkandhoney-adj-web.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Ties That Bind</h4>
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In October of 2013, while relaxing at the PALS stitching retreat in Myrtle Beach, SC, Cathy Habermann of Hands On Design and I decided to create a collaborative design. We sat and discussed different thoughts and went home with a (very) rough sketch of the piece and the idea that we wanted to use the favorite hymn, Blest Be the Ties That Bind, in a needlework verse. Cathy was struck with the verse variation that we used in the final piece during her plane ride home. But, that original sketch was changed so often, that really there isn't any left of it. We had a great time working on this piece over the course of several months. Since Cathy is in IA and I am in PA, we used the miracles of technology to help us with our meetings, we FaceTimed! This piece has truly become a celebration of friendship in needlework. The main chart is offered in two parts, the first is available through Hands On Design and the second part from me. Both charts are available now, so you don't have to wait for the second part to be released. The main chart is stitched on 36 count Cocoa linen from Weeks Dye Works (again, the 36 is correct) with floss from The Gentle Art. The piece does contain snippets of specialty stitches and makes a great learning piece if you are unfamiliar with the stitches. As always, you have the option of just stitching them using a cross stitch. Stitch diagrams and instructions are included.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_88QgcR02whePblUCvVYLlrv-NCVcvFqcLkPmbWbP9eZK5YzmOMxQGot-pkuq5YBNVPfkUP6qRLuV-3XTkWmfE913A11E3jInXJT0b6ByLdUXgM1HhLakln4Uz4weldOXOE4egr6Or8/s1600/Ties-Full-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_88QgcR02whePblUCvVYLlrv-NCVcvFqcLkPmbWbP9eZK5YzmOMxQGot-pkuq5YBNVPfkUP6qRLuV-3XTkWmfE913A11E3jInXJT0b6ByLdUXgM1HhLakln4Uz4weldOXOE4egr6Or8/s1600/Ties-Full-web.jpg" height="400" width="288" /></a></div>
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Also included are charts and finishing instructions for accessory pieces. My little projects are this sweet scissor pocket and scissor fob. I have a little story to share about the red winged blackbirds. This little design is dedicated to my sister, who is also an avid stitcher. Years ago, when we would be riding in the car together, she would always be pointing out red-winged blackbirds. I would look, but never see them. One day, it dawned on me that I was looking for the wrong kind of bird, thus we always have a chuckle over red-winged blackbirds.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisM6-hvfV8VfLe40QdfX5ErPeQQsdZK3u6D0xNNYM5u_ZCdIGkVBKbcedAEBZy7RfPDH6Regk3qWeV4x1PUCGD2arCMjZrgR2eeRwFLzSlOGTW27nsn-Cu3F8GwBoKWnGSjfK0FdvvOks/s1600/Ties-Beth-Pieces-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisM6-hvfV8VfLe40QdfX5ErPeQQsdZK3u6D0xNNYM5u_ZCdIGkVBKbcedAEBZy7RfPDH6Regk3qWeV4x1PUCGD2arCMjZrgR2eeRwFLzSlOGTW27nsn-Cu3F8GwBoKWnGSjfK0FdvvOks/s1600/Ties-Beth-Pieces-1.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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Cathy's accessory pieces include a needle book and biscornu. All of the small projects would make lovely gifts for your stitcher friends! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjON6rUYJoFYHPCfY0WNt5Ycpm042quJVHUezbrF5MG4kHrPhkmA-h8HHZqH_7Pt-ancC2BJ-ONH4a1OBSXnHHftzrKCKgxKdp_hfvAB_bMLtncMYk5cAOk9N3zuHJOTjx2BuidctK0Njg/s1600/Ties-Cathy-Pieces-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjON6rUYJoFYHPCfY0WNt5Ycpm042quJVHUezbrF5MG4kHrPhkmA-h8HHZqH_7Pt-ancC2BJ-ONH4a1OBSXnHHftzrKCKgxKdp_hfvAB_bMLtncMYk5cAOk9N3zuHJOTjx2BuidctK0Njg/s1600/Ties-Cathy-Pieces-1.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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That wraps up everything NEW at the Summer House. Of course, the shops did get a sneak peek at the next release coming your way April 15... </div>
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Enjoy the new designs and always remember that I love to see your stitched pieces, send me pics!</div>
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Take care and always be stitching,</div>
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Beth</div>
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Beth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-64623404593372549952014-02-12T14:00:00.001-05:002014-02-12T14:00:42.971-05:00Nashville New Releases are coming...Hi All!<br />
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Images and info on my newest designs will be posted on Valentine's Day. So sorry for the delay, my travel schedule has changed due to the winter storm.<br />
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All my Best,<br />
BethBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-78786756817907890632013-07-09T12:33:00.001-04:002013-07-09T12:33:35.728-04:00Facebook Page<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/9249773998/" title="facebook-logo-jpg by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="facebook-logo-jpg" height="256" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2891/9249773998_7aa17362a8.jpg" width="256" /></a><br />
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Hi Stitching Friends!<br />
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Did you know that Summer House Stitche Workes has a Facebook page? Well there is one and now you can link to it from my blog page. I finally figured out where I had to put the code to accomplish this little feat of technology. Just click on the link to the right and it will take you right to the Facebook page. When you "like" the page, you can stay up to date on the latest happenings here at the Summer House. I post little snippets to Facebook that don't appear on the blog. So please "like" Summer House Stitche Workes.<br />
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As Always,<br />
BethBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-28148620123723042902013-07-08T13:35:00.001-04:002013-07-08T13:36:16.471-04:00Ethereal Illumination Ornament in Just CrossStitch<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/9241862542/" title="Ethereal Illumination-JXS preview w/ Mag by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Ethereal Illumination-JXS preview w/ Mag" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7383/9241862542_e07c1f20c8.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Thought I would share with you my ornament that is in the July/August 2013 issue of Just CrossStitch magazine. This is the first Ethereal Illumination ornament you will see, a second design will be included in the 2013 Just CrossStitch special edition ornament issue. And if two are not enough for your tree, I will be releasing another 7 accompanying designs in a chart in September. (About the same time the ornament issue hits the newsstands.) All of the ornaments were inspired by stained glass windows in churches or cathedrals. They are stitched with Weeks Dye Works floss in Purple Rain, Curry and Garnet on 28 ct. opalescent white Lugana from Zweigart.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/9241862434/" title="Ethereal Illumination-JXS Preview by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Ethereal Illumination-JXS Preview" height="332" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5519/9241862434_314c21c79c.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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A close up view, somehow the sparkles in the fabric just don't come out in the photos, you can see a little bit of sparkle here. The hanger was created using Mill Hill beads. Another sparkly touch.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/9241862280/" title="Ethereal Illumination-close up finishing by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Ethereal Illumination-close up finishing" height="332" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3787/9241862280_e64dc0bb99.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Here you can see a close up of the edge finishing. I used a "biscornu" finishing technique, lacing ladderstitch through the perimeter backstitch on each side of fabric. I love this finishing, it is easy and looks really nice.<br />
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I will share more photos, once I have the other ornaments in hand. My daughter liked the designs so well she offered to stitch the models for me. I don't get to see them until she visits in August!<br />
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Happy Stitching!<br />
BethBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-34959227072682081612013-07-04T08:36:00.001-04:002013-07-04T08:36:30.642-04:00Happy Independence Day!!<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/9205937871/" title="Mr. President-Needlecase by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Mr. President-Needlecase" height="462" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5348/9205937871_72354cf7cd.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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I hope you all have a wonderful day celebrating our nation's birth and what makes it great! This is a little snippet of the Mr. President chart, that I have been planning on finishing off into a needlecase since I stitched in a couple of years ago, but the needlecase is still not together... I guess we all have WIPs. I hope you find time to stitch during your festivities.<br />
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All my Best,<br />
Beth<br />
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p.s. Just a side note to my previous posting on the Gettysburg Sesquicentennial... my great-great grandfather was injured at the Wheatfield. My cousin Duane, who is a Civil War reenactor for the PA 148th, will be playing Zachariah at Gettysburg on July 5th, as the three days of the Battle are reenacted. Happy Fourth!!Beth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-66039296316455284962013-07-02T17:17:00.000-04:002013-07-02T17:17:46.717-04:00Battle of Gettysburg ~ Sesquicentennial<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/9195237942/" title="Gettysburg Battlefield by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Gettysburg Battlefield" height="332" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5492/9195237942_f35a6e9b95.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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150 years ago today, July 2, 1863, my great-great grandfather, Zachariah Truckenmiller, was fighting in one of the bloodiest battles of the American Civil War, The Wheatfield at Gettysburg. The twenty acre field changed hands six times during the course of the day and over 6,000 men where killed, wounded or captured there.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/9195237968/" title="148th PA Regiment Monument by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="148th PA Regiment Monument" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7401/9195237968_3c098c6831.jpg" width="332" /></a><br />
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The monument honoring the 148th Pennsylvania Infantry where they fought at the Wheatfield at Gettysburg.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/9192443515/" title="Pennsylvania Monument by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Pennsylvania Monument" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7435/9192443515_e4b013bb50.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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The Pennsylvania Monument. As a child, it kept us quite busy looking for Zachariah's name on the Pennsylvania monument. His name is too long and doesn't fit, so it is just Z. Truckenmiller. It is in the center group of names on the right hand side of the photo below.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/9195237640/" title="Zachariah's name by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Zachariah's name" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7392/9195237640_b06c9357f5.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/9192443437/" title="High Water Mark by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="High Water Mark" height="332" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3780/9192443437_2b40db41a0.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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The High Water Mark.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/9192443293/" title="Gettysburg Field by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Gettysburg Field" height="332" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7289/9192443293_7154acbb7e.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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If you have never had a chance to tour Gettysburg, I highly recommend it. It is a hauntingly, beautiful place. We toured the Battlefield once again in May and experienced the new visitor's center. We were impressed with how the history of both sides was presented and also the aftermath of the battle and how it effected the people of Gettysburg. It is truly sacred American ground.Beth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-61398603441798476802013-06-20T12:55:00.000-04:002014-04-22T20:08:05.794-04:00Sneak Peak at Rebecca's PrimerHi All!<br />
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Well here she is, Rebecca's Primer!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/9092462279/" title="Rebecca's Primer by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Rebecca's Primer" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7314/9092462279_16ea1ab3c6.jpg" height="500" width="500" /></a><br />
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The charts are at the printer now, I will be picking them up in the next day or so. I hope you love this primitive styled sampler. She is not a reproduction, but was inspired by an antique example. One of the things I noted on the inspiration piece was how the uppercase alphabets were so precisely stitched, but the lowercase was not. I wonder if the original stitcher had a guide for the uppercase but created the lowercase as she stitched? Either way, it seemed it was a real learning piece, hence the "primer" part of the name. You will also note the use of the "f" type letter for the lowercase "s," definitely a Pennsylvania German trait. I added my own great-grandmother's name in the piece just for fun and her birthdate. It would be a great spot to add your own name and date to personalize the piece. The chart also includes this corresponding piece, Rebecca's Pinkeep.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/9094684066/" title="Rebecca's Pinkeep by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Rebecca's Pinkeep" src="http://l2.yimg.com/sk/3681/9094684066_42775f6996.jpg" height="500" width="500" /></a><br />
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Just a fun design that can be worked into so many little finishes. I love pincushions, so that is how I finished it, but it would also make a nice pocket. Actually it is about the size of my iPhone 4. I really considered making it into a phone pocket.<br />
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Now for the specifics of the models. They were both stitched over two on 30 ct. Straw linen from Weeks Dye Works with over-dyed floss from The Gentle Art. The frame for the sampler is from East Side Mouldings, one of their Olde Towne Commons frames in black. Also note that the sampler includes some fun stitches, Algerian Eye and Four-sided Stitch along with the cross stitch. I included stitch diagrams to help you along. They are both easy and fun stitches to enhance your piece.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/9094813420/" title="Rebecca's Primer - close up by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Rebecca's Primer - close up" src="http://l6.yimg.com/so/7452/9094813420_2fa0c4241b.jpg" height="332" width="500" /></a><br />
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Here is a close-up, so you can see the four-sided stitch and Algerian eye a little bit better. I really love the old feel that this sampler emits. As I have sat at my desk the last few days with her hanging on the wall beside me, I have really bonded with this piece. It will be hard to let it go on the road with my trunk show.<br />
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And speaking of the trunk show, right now it is at Strawberry Sampler in Glen Mills, PA with Beth and Molly. I will be joining them on Saturday, 22 June for a "Meet the Designer" day. I am really excited about going, so if you are in the area, please stop by, I would love to meet you. I will also be bring Rebecca's Primer with me.<br />
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Well all for now, we are in the midst of remodeling our kitchen, so I need to get back to sanding and painting. Ugh! It will be wonderful when it is done, but you know how it is when your kitchen is torn up. Making a meal can be a challenge. I will post a few pics once things are looking a bit better!<br />
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All my Best,<br />
BethBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-1159912631664269892013-05-10T11:49:00.003-04:002013-05-10T11:50:28.600-04:00Stitched and NotedHi Stitching Friends!<br />
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I have a few photos to share of some completed Summer House Stitche Workes designs that have been sent to me. It is so rewarding to me to see how stitchers have interpreted my designs. The first photo to share is from Patti R and her wonderful finish of <i>Calico Sampler</i>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8726469132/" title="PattiReedCalicoSampler by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="PattiReedCalicoSampler" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7383/8726469132_ed5fb4886b.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">photo used by permission of Patti R.</span></i><br />
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Patti used the recommended linen and floss and her sister, Petra Dennis sewed the wonderful quilt finish. Petra has her own finishing business, so if you are in need of some finishing work, here is her website: <a href="http://www.needlewoman.biz/">http://www.needlewoman.biz</a>. I love the fabrics she chose, they just set off the stitching perfectly.<br />
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The next finish is <i>Star</i> from Jeanne Horton of Country Sampler in Spring Green, WI.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8725350357/" title="jeannehortonstitchedstar by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="jeannehortonstitchedstar" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7293/8725350357_1f9ac4d8bd.jpg" width="300" /></a><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>photo used by permission of Jeanne Horton, Country Sampler, Spring Green, WI</i></span><br />
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Jeanne's shop model is stitched on 28 ct. Natural linen. She and her girls have kitted up the chart, fabric and floss. If you are interested in her kit, here is her website: <a href="http://sgcountrysampler.com/wp/">http://sgcountrysampler.com/wp/</a>. I wish her shop was closer to me, as the photos of her displays of quilts, needlework and antiques are very inspiring.<br />
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I hope you have enjoyed this little show and tell and if you have any finishes of my designs, email them to me, as I would love to showcase them as well.<br />
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Next week's post will be a sneak peak of my newest design. I have the model nearing completion and the needlecase is finished. I still haven't finalized a name for her, I have several possibilities, hmmm, maybe I will let all of you vote on her name...<br />
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Enjoy the Spring and have a Happy Mother's Day this weekend.<br />
BethBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-67620587647651563882013-04-30T11:30:00.000-04:002013-04-30T11:30:42.078-04:00Miss Bailey's Discovery<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8695195189/" title="Baby Bunnies by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Baby Bunnies" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8537/8695195189_93f3a73981.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Hi Friends!<br />
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On Sunday afternoon I had just sat down on the back porch with a glass of ice tea after battling the ivy on the bank in my backyard (not done yet!!) when I heard a little squeak. Bailey loves to explore the bank and snorkel through the ivy and on Sunday, she found three little somethings...newborn bunnies. We promptly removed Bailey and put her in the house. She was not happy. I grabbed my camera to take a couple of shots and then very carefully covered them up again. Believe me, moving rabbit fur with sticks is not an easy process, but I didn't want to touch anything with my fingers. I just hope mama came back at some point to feed them. I learned from our vet that rabbits only feed their young once a day, the rest of the time, the mother tries to stay far away from the nest, so that she is not drawing attention to the babes. I will be on the look out for baby bunnies lopping through my backyard.<br />
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Happy Spring!<br />
BethBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-71446801637236607562013-04-25T11:57:00.002-04:002013-04-25T11:57:26.473-04:00Completed Calico Sampler<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8513339013/" title="Completed Calico Sampler by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Completed Calico Sampler" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8529/8513339013_a6ffa242c3.jpg" width="332" /></a><br />
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Hi Friends!<br />
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I just realized that I had never posted this photo of the completed Calico Sampler design, so here it is! I backed it with a natural muslin that had a lot of natural flecks in it. I will eventually put tabs on the top, so it can hang from a dowel or most likely a branch, so it really has a nice primitive look. I loved doing this sampler and the many borders offer a myriad of applications, not to mention the alphabet. When I first played around with this idea, I was trying to create words with the alphabet, but I could not figure out how to use each of the letters, so I settled for the sampler idea, which definitely works. Someday when my stitching schedule allows, if that ever happens LOL!, I would like to create M-E-R-R-Y C-H-R-I-S-T-M-A-S, all letters stitched and finished individually and then strung together on a piece of jute to create a mantel swag. Perhaps one of these days, I will get to that project. Please send me photos as you complete your version of Calico Sampler. I would love to see your interpretations.<br />
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As I was talking to my daughter about the "Dyslexic" Sampler that I blogged about earlier this week, she suggested it was stitched by a rebellious teenager that didn't enjoy stitching. I thought that idea was good for a laugh, so I thought I would share. As I have tried to do some research online about samplers with backward letters, I am finding that there may be just one letter backward, or that within a word a letter may be backward, suggesting that the schoolgirl may not have known how to form that particular letter or perhaps she was dyslexic, but I did not find any samplers that had the extensive amount of backward stitching as this example does.<br />
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Well, I need to get back to stitching!! I am really trying to make some progress on my next release. Sneak peak coming soon!!<br />
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All my Best,<br />
BethBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-58317218628687253452013-04-22T12:29:00.003-04:002013-04-22T12:29:54.461-04:00Dyslexic Sampler?<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8671620995/" title="dyslexic sampler by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="dyslexic sampler" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8119/8671620995_d21772ced4.jpg" width="373" /></a><br />
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Hi Folks!<br />
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While antiquing this past weekend, I happened along a strange sampler and I was hoping that collectively maybe we could shed some light on this particular sampler. Either way I thought it was an interesting piece to share. When I first looked at it, I thought, they have framed it backwards, perhaps to show the quality of the stitching. But then I noticed the second row of lettering is correct. Anybody have any ideas on this one, as to why it would have been stitched this way? I apologize for the poor photo, the sampler was up rather high on the wall with a pole in front of it, so this was about as good as I could get with my phone.<br />
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Let me know your thoughts.<br />
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Always,<br />
BethBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-33501499571862236552013-04-16T09:57:00.000-04:002013-04-16T09:57:36.140-04:00The National Needlearts Association SurveyHi Stitching Friends!<br />
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You may have heard about this survey from your LNS or another blog, but I want to put the information out there as well, because this survey is so important to our industry. This is the tool that shops and designers use to find out what stitchers are interested in. It helps us to better serve you. I go back from time to time to look at the results as I am planning new releases. I also look at past survey results to see where the trends are going. So please, if you have not already done so, take a few minutes to fill out the survey. The survey will only be open until April 30. TNNA is also offering a shopping spree to one lucky participant. Here is all of the pertinent information you need, including the link.<br />
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<div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; display: block; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;">Please complete the triennial national Yarn, Stitching, and Weaving 2013 Survey at<a href="http://www.tnna.org/link.asp?e=bas_designs@yahoo.com&job=868356&ymlink=1384151&finalurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Esurveymonkey%2Ecom%2Fs%2FTNNAfiber" rel="nofollow" style="color: #003399; line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TNNAfiber</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;">The 10-minute survey asks about your experiences with the needlearts you enjoy: crocheting, cross-stitch, embroidery, knitting, needlepoint, spinning, or weaving. Let us know which types of projects you prefer, how you like to learn, and what you’d like to see needlearts shops do better. The needlearts community needs your advice and opinions, whether you are a beginner or an expert! This survey is conducted every few years by The National NeedleArts Association (TNNA). Your input is very important and will be included in a published national report.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;">Your answers are <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;">anonymous</span>. No one will use your survey responses to market to you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;">In return for your participation, you will receive valuable benefits:<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />· Gain a chance to win one of five <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;">$100 needlearts gift certificates</span>.<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />· Ensure stores, manufacturers, and other suppliers provide what you want.<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />· Explore your needlearts interests.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; display: block; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;">Your valuable input will also help the needlearts community:<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />· Give guilds, associations, community groups, and others guidance to grow the world of needlearts.<br style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;" />· Help independent retailers and family-owned suppliers succeed by giving them the customer feedback they need.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;">The survey is sponsored by TNNA, an organization of businesses dedicated to supporting the needlearts community. Hart Business Research is conducting this survey for TNNA and compiling the results into a major national report, <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-style: italic; line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;">The State of Specialty Needlearts 2013</span>. <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;">Please complete the survey right away at </span><a href="http://www.tnna.org/link.asp?e=bas_designs@yahoo.com&job=868356&ymlink=1384151&finalurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Esurveymonkey%2Ecom%2Fs%2FTNNAfiber" rel="nofollow" style="color: #003399; line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;">https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TNNAfiber</span></a><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;">. </span>The survey closes April 30, 2013.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Spring is erupting in my neighborhood. The flowering trees are absolutely gorgeous. I have forsythia cut and placed all over my house to bring the Spring indoors. My fat cat has come out of his winter hibernation and is back to all of his feline eccentricities. We were beginning to worry about him, as he was sleeping a good part of the each day away, but no more. He is back following us around the house and being very vocal. The pup isn't quite sure what to think of him.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Until the next time, happy stitching!</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Beth</span></span></div>
Beth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-77712456611841396172013-04-08T09:37:00.003-04:002013-04-08T09:37:37.495-04:00And the Winner Is...Number 26, Terri Patterson!! Terri, since you left your email address, I will contact you for your mailing address and get these lovely garden samplers shipped off to you. Enjoy!!<br />
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I have been away all weekend helping my sister pack and move her household. We were so busy that I really didn't have time to think about the contest or internet availability to check its status. Which was probably for the best, otherwise I would have continually checked on it to see what new comments had been posted. So, when I had a break on Saturday and checked my blog from my phone, I was so happy with your responses and the increase to my followers!! Thank you all for spreading the word and entering the contest, I greatly appreciate it!! I was so excited to see all of the people that were discovering my designs for the first time. That is satisfying as well, because I love designing needlework and sharing my artistic vision with all of you. Last night after we returned home, I started to look at all of your blogs as well, it is gratifying and inspiring to see what we all accomplish with needle and thread. On that note, I would like to add a stitchers gallery to my blog, so when you have completed stitching one of my pieces, please send me a photo and I will share it with others.<br />
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The sun is shining at my house this morning and it looks like a perfect Spring day is in order. I need to get busy, as I have started stitching both of those new samplers that I recently designed. I hope you will love them. I will post a few snippets later this week as I get a bit more stitched on them.<br />
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Keep Stitching!<br />
BethBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-20304607326559849682013-04-03T11:25:00.000-04:002013-04-03T11:25:56.958-04:00Blog Contest!!!<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8615763707/" title="Garden Series Charts by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Garden Series Charts" height="374" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8535/8615763707_969d63f29e.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Okay, here we go with my first blog contest! I think you can guess from the photo what the prize is... the complete set of my Garden Series. I love these little samplers and they are so much fun to stitch. The motifs are very versatile as well and can be used in a number of applications. If you have been following my blog for sometime, you will have seen how I used the center motif of Autumn Garden to create a necklace for my sister-in-law. Here is a quick <a href="http://summerhousestitcheworkes.blogspot.com/search/label/Autumn%20Garden">link</a> to that post in case you missed it. All four samplers are stitched on 30 count Ligonier Latte from R & R Reproductions with over-dyed floss from The Gentle Art.<br />
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So, what do you have to do to enter this contest? I would like you to recommend my blog to one of your stitching buddies to follow. Then just leave your name in the comment section of this post and I will choose a winner using a random number generator. You have until next Sunday, April 7th to post and I will choose a winner on Monday morning. I can't think of a nicer way to start a Monday morning than finding out you are the winner of these lovely charts.<br />
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Good luck and Happy Stitching!<br />
Beth<br />
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<br />Beth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-46845493586667226142013-03-29T14:40:00.002-04:002013-03-29T14:42:24.098-04:00Quaker Cross Free-bee<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8600159585/" title="Quaker Cross Freebee by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Quaker Cross Freebee" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8252/8600159585_1e71f1dd50.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Hi Friends!<br />
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I hope Spring is finally starting to show itself in your area. I actually have some flowers starting to peak out in my flower bed. It is a very encouraging sign. Now if we can just get the mercury in the thermometer to go up a bit, we will be great. I usually don't mind winter, but for some reason this year it was starting to "get" to me. Perhaps it had something to do with March being colder than January?? The design above is Quaker Cross, very appropriate stitching for this weekend. I gave this chart to shops at the Nashville Market as a free-bee to pass onto their customers. So, if your shop bought from me at the Market, you should be seeing this chart at some point. I stitched it with Bellagio Red #240 from Gloriana Threads on 40 count linen. (The linen was an un-named piece in my stash, I have no idea what it is.) This floss, Tudor Silk, was created especially for working on higher count linen. It was lovely to work with!! I used two strands to stitch over two linen threads and the coverage was perfect. I then finished the piece into a little scissor pocket.<br />
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I hope you all have a very blessed Easter!<br />
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All my Best,<br />
Beth<br />
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p.s. Be watching the blog next week for my first Blog Contest!!Beth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-2691494956588134192013-03-21T13:37:00.002-04:002013-06-14T15:47:00.922-04:00Happy Spring and Nashville PostludeHi Stitching Friends!<br />
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Spring has finally arrived, even though we had snow swirling through the air again this morning. Ugh! I know I have been remiss in blogging about my Nashville releases, so I apologize for that. Nashville this year was bittersweet for me. It was wonderful in that my daughter Laura accompanied me and we had a great time together. We antiqued, indulged our love of old houses and stitched together, not to mention all of the chat time we enjoyed. The sad part of Nashville was that my father passed away while I was there. It was difficult knowing that I couldn't be there for his last hours and knowing what awaited us at the end of our journey home. So needless to say, life has been a bit hectic for me the last few weeks. But I have also taken some quiet time to work on new designs. I have two new samplers that were bursting to come out of my head and onto paper. I even have a companion piece for the one all stitched. They have sort of taken priority in my release schedule, so you will be seeing them most likely in May or June.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8514455782/" title="Mistress Mary by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Mistress Mary" height="431" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8225/8514455782_5f376cdbb4.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Now onto those new releases. First up, because I really want to feel "springy" is Mistress Mary. She is more on the lines of a traditional sampler, but with a little twist. Fabric yo-yos embellish the garden as the prize flowers. In case you are unsure about making yo-yos, instructions are included in the chart. Don't worry if your first one isn't perfect, but once you get the hang of it, yo-yo making can be quite a stitching addiction. I think I have enough to make at least a dresser scarf. One other point of note about yo-yos, I was recently reading about early Pennsylvania German samplers and one of their usual features is corners decorated with "silk rosettes." Well, these rosettes looked like yo-yos to me, so I guess it is fitting that this PA German descendant is still using them in her needlework.<br />
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Mistress Mary is stitched on 35 ct. Weeks Dye Works Cornsilk linen. This is a new linen color for Weeks and I love it!! Mistress Mary was etched into the fibers of the piece that was sent to me. She wasn't even in my Nashville line up until I gazed into that fabric. I used floss from The Gentle Art and Weeks. Stitches include cross stitch, Algerian Eye and Herringbone stitch. The main part of the sampler is stitched over two linen threads and the verse is stitched over one.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8514456638/" title="Mistress Mary close up by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Mistress Mary close up" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8380/8514456638_953b007340.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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The verse is the nursery rhyme that we all know and love, Mistress Mary, Quite Contrary. The date of 1744 is the year the nursery rhyme was first published in England, so it has been entertaining children for quite some time.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8577815746/" title="Corona by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Corona" height="382" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8237/8577815746_e6c3d575bc.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Next up is Corona. I introduced you to her back in February. She was my contribution to The Great Model Giveaway that was held at Market this year.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8578080094/" title="Corona winner by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Corona winner" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8511/8578080094_a2aa0fac8c.jpg" width="373" /></a><br />
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Corona was won by Bobbie of Stitching Bits and Bobs in Plainwell, Michigan. Bobbie was thrilled to win her and I was thrilled that she went to such a loving home! So, if you are in the Plainwell, MI area, go check out Corona.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8577817354/" title="Symphonic Romance by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="Symphonic Romance" height="413" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8098/8577817354_1d4465ca08.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Symphonic Romance is such a special design. I created it for my oldest son, Shane and his bride, Mackenzie, as their wedding sampler. I cut the center of out of theirs and added their wedding photo, of course, I stitched it in their wedding colors. This version showcases a lovely monogram, each letter of the alphabet is included and charted for your personalization. It is stitched on 36 count Edinburgh Light Sand linen from Zweigart using Gloriana's Topiary silk floss and Fried Pickles from Hand Dyed Fibers. The gorgeous frame is from Priscilla's Pocket<br />
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And lastly, the much anticipated addition to the Founders of Freedom series, Abraham Lincoln: The Great Emancipator.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8513343261/" title="The Great Emancipator by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="The Great Emancipator" height="381" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8235/8513343261_c9a0b3c9ac.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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I have had so many emails as to when Lincoln would be designed, that I really couldn't wait any longer. It is also very timely, as we are currently commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. The Great Emancipator features a snippet from The Gettysburg Address and is stitched on 28 count Sandstone/Tea-dyed linen from Wichelt with DMC floss. And another great frame from Priscilla's Pocket. I just sat and stared at this frame when I took it out of the box!!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8514454830/" title="The Great Emancipator-Close up by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="The Great Emancipator-Close up" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8243/8514454830_1b9b5864f8.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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And a close up look at the silhouette.<br />
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That about wraps things up. I know one little posting has turned into an entire epistle. I will leave you with an image of my Dad that I took last March when I was caring for him for a few weeks. My Dad suffered from Alzheimer's for at least the last 10 years. As I am sure many of you know, it is a horrible disease and takes a little more of you each day, until nothing is left. I can't imagine how horrible it is to not remember events in your life, but most of all the people that make up your life. I am so thankful that my father is now at peace. He was 77 years old.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8577057983/" title="My Dad by Summer House Stitche Workes, on Flickr"><img alt="My Dad" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8366/8577057983_0547ff9671.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Enjoy the Spring!<br />
Beth<br />
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<br />Beth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-10594960916473903422013-02-11T16:01:00.001-05:002013-02-11T16:01:53.017-05:00Calico Sampler in Constant Stitcher's new book<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8466400388/" title="Calico Sampler Letters by bas_designs, on Flickr"><img alt="Calico Sampler Letters" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8525/8466400388_6bd9bbcbc9.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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I wanted to let you know about a new book that is coming out at the Nashville Market from Susan Sayers, The Constant Stitcher. It is called <i>Fantastic Flat Finishes</i> and the wonderful gift card pocket finishing of two Calico Sampler letters in the photo above is one of six finishes that will be featured. I love this finish! Susan made these for her nieces for Christmas. What a wonderful finish, I can't wait to see the other five in her new book. Be sure to look for it!!<br />
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In Stitches,<br />
BethBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-36249788289141931282013-02-06T13:35:00.000-05:002013-02-06T13:38:32.068-05:00Calico Sampler NumeralsHi Friends!<br />
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Below is the chart to personalize the finish year on your Calico Sampler. When you pick up the last chart, you will see that it only includes the 1, 2 and 0, so you may be in need of a different number.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8450383695/" title="calicosampler-numbers by bas_designs, on Flickr"><img alt="calicosampler-numbers" height="312" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8238/8450383695_9615517184.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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You should be able to pull this off the blog like you would any photo. Let me know if you have any issues. Please send me photos of your finished Calico Sampler, I would love to see your interpretations.<br />
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All my Best,<br />
BethBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-92110980536287206162013-02-05T10:27:00.000-05:002013-02-05T10:27:09.078-05:00Happy February!!Hi Friends!<br />
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Okay, I am a dismal failure at my New Year resolutions. One of them being that I was going to post to the blog twice a week. LOL. Here I am on the 5th of February and I am posting for the first time this year. Of course I have a ton of excuses why I haven't posted, but they are just that... So much for beating myself up, let me share with you some of what has been occupying my time.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8448058122/" title="Calico Sampler #9 by bas_designs, on Flickr"><img alt="Calico Sampler #9" height="313" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8211/8448058122_5db92db567.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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First thing, Calico Sampler is complete!! I shipped charts to the shops on my automatic program and to the distributors the end of last week, so your shop should have it or be able to get it now. This has been such a wonderful project to design and work on, I hope you all agree. It is definitely an eye catcher. I will show you a photo of the entire sampler once I am able to take a good photo. I have taken several and I was not happy with the lighting on any of them. Add to that, the weather has not been great for setting the stage and giving me good lighting for the pic.<br />
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Now onto other stuff, I have been designing and stitching up a storm for the last couple of months, thanks in part to my sister who broke her foot and hasn't been mobile since 27 Dec. I will have four new releases for the Nashville Market on March 1-3. It was such an exhilarating experience last year, that I can't wait for this year. Three of the designs are stitched and just waiting for frames, but the fourth one has been my challenge. I think I have ripped as much as I have stitched and have gone back to the drawing board many times. I think I worked out the last kink yesterday and now I can really get moving on stitching. It is a good thing that linen is such a resilient fabric!! Here is a little sneak peak at one of the new market releases, her name is Corona and she is a cousin to Sylvania, whom I released at last year's Nashville market. She is stitched on 28 count Doubloon linen from Picture This Plus using DMC floss. She is just as friendly and fun as Sylvania and also inspired by Baltimore Album quilts.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8446970921/" title="Corona-1 by bas_designs, on Flickr"><img alt="Corona-1" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8088/8446970921_0cbf057560.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Well, enough for now, I will share more in a few days. Well, that is my goal anyway. I am going to put it on my calendar and perhaps that will help!!<br />
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Stay warm and keep stitching,<br />
BethBeth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-50225412483345301182012-10-31T14:06:00.000-04:002012-10-31T14:07:42.209-04:00N-O-E-L, Calico Sampler in Holiday Colors<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8135773491/" title="Calico Sampler - Noel by bas_designs, on Flickr"><img alt="Calico Sampler - Noel" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8054/8135773491_f0b5654745.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Hi Friends!<br />
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As promised yesterday, here is the conversion to stitch this wonderful adaptation of Calico Sampler. It is the thread wizardry of my friend Carol, she is the one who took my charts and adapted them to Holiday colors. The fabric she stitched on is a 32 ct. opalescent. I am sorry that I don't have more information than that, but it was in her stash and she wasn't quite sure who manufactured it. She also made a few other changes, she did not stitch the upper and lower bands as herringbone stitch, but as an alternating cross stitch. Also, as Carol is not a fan of Algerian eye stitch (and I am, LOL!) she stitched those as Smyrna crosses or double cross stitches. So without further ado, here is the Holiday Floss Key:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8142162880/" title="noelconversionkey by bas_designs, on Flickr"><img alt="noelconversionkey" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8183/8142162880_ac75e31fbe.jpg" width="319" /></a><br />
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I hope you enjoy this festive version and send me photos of your innovations. I would love to see them!!<br />
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Happy Stitching and Happy Halloween!<br />
Beth Beth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5209907467442526197.post-19039721792923901772012-10-30T11:53:00.002-04:002012-10-30T11:53:38.010-04:00Calico Sampler No. 6 - P-Q-R<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8135796280/" title="Calico Sampler #6 - P-Q-R by bas_designs, on Flickr"><img alt="Calico Sampler #6 - P-Q-R" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8324/8135796280_1e6a580724.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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The next chapter of Calico Sampler is ready! As I told you yesterday, I shipped the charts to the shops on my automatic on Saturday, before the storm hit, so they should be arriving soon. Haven't shipped to the distributors yet, but I should in the next few days. I love the letter "Q," I think it is my favorite letter, it has such movement in the calligraphy.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/summerhousestitcheworkes/8135798802/" title="Calico Sampler - up to R by bas_designs, on Flickr"><img alt="Calico Sampler - up to R" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8187/8135798802_1caf90fc38.jpg" width="332" /></a>
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Here is a photo of the entire sampler to date. I am really loving this design! I have never stitched anything as large as this before, so it is pretty exciting to me to watch it develop. I am not quite sure how I will finish it yet. I have picked out a frame from Priscilla's Pocket, but if I frame the piece, then it will be too large to include in my trunk show. So, still thinking about the final finishing. Any suggestions?<br />
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Be watching my blog, as tomorrow I am going to post the color key and photo to create the "N-O-E-L" version that my friend Carol stitched. I had the piece on display at the Baltimore Market last month. <br />
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Until tomorrow...happy stitching!!<br />
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Beth<br />
<br />Beth Ann Sealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08660282917809261258noreply@blogger.com0