Calico Sampler No. 3 is Released

Hi Friends!

For all of you out there eagerly awaiting the next installment of Calico Sampler, it is out! I mailed the charts to both Hoffman and Norden and also the many shops on my automatic program last Saturday. So, you should be finding it in your local needlework shop and on the distributor's "what's new" listings. I must say, this sampler is not growing old on me at all. I love each row as I create and stitch it. The next line, J-K-L, is all designed and I hope to stitch the model this weekend.

Here is a look at the complete sampler so far.



I have had many emails from stitchers about how much they are enjoying the sampler. One stitcher I thought had a marvelous idea. She is stitching the letters of her initials in darker colors, so that they will stand out more. A great way to personalize the sampler!!

Woodlawn Needlework Exhibition

I viewed the spectacular needlework exhibition at Woodlawn Plantation two weeks ago. If you live within driving distance, I would completely recommend it to you. Although the show is in it's 49th year, I had never been there before. It is so inspiring and the needlework showcased is incredible. Do try to get there if you can. Needlework in a historic home, what more could you ask for! Here is a link with more information for you. The show runs until 10 June. http://woodlawn1805.org/49th-annual-needlework-exhibition/

And once you are reinvigorated from Woodlawn, stop in at In Stitches in Alexandria, VA. It is literally a hop, skip and a jump from Woodlawn. A wonderful shop, chock full of cross-stitch and needlepoint supplies from fibers, to fabric, canvases, you name it, it is there, including charts from Summer House Stitche Workes. ;)

Happy Stitching!
Beth

p.s. Punishment for not posting for a month is that Blogger has updated its interface. While most seems to be the same as it was, the way I posted photos is not, so please bear with me, I will try to fix this code as soon as I can.

The Shenandoah Valley of Virginia

I can't believe it has been a month since I last did a posting. My apologies, I really don't know where the time goes. Well, part of that time went to a vacation in the lovely Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. My hubby and I were there at the perfect time of year to enjoy the spectacular colors of Autumn. We went hiking, driving and antiquing. What could be better. We explored Skyline Drive and Monticello along with several other historical spots. I can't say enough about the garden at Monticello, it was gorgeous. The sampler in the photo was from the Michie Tavern, an early American tavern located down the road from Monticello. The food was exceptional. I ate southern dishes that I never experienced before and they were great, like black-eyed peas. No vacation would be complete without searching out a new cross stitch shop. I found Cross Stitch Station in Waynesboro, VA. Waynesboro is the southern access point to Skyline Drive and the Shenandoah National Park, so very conveniently located. Terry, the owner is a wonderful woman. Her enthusiasm about needlework is enough to get anyone stitching. Her shop is "an oasis" for the stitcher, with charts, threads, fabric, you name it, she has it. I hope if you are ever travelling near Waynesboro, you look up Terry.

Happy Monday!

Beth

Shop Visit: The Village Stitchery

One of my very favorite cross stitch shops is The Village Stitchery outside of Lewisburg, PA. Located in an 1871 one room school house, the shop radiates warmth as soon as you enter through the back door. Lisa, the shop's owner, is a display wizard, incorporating the many, many finished models (all of which she has stitched!) along with antiques into clever vignettes throughout the shop. She carries a wide array of threads, fabrics and charts, anything the discerning stitcher needs. Lisa also offers finishing services and framing. The shop is always a source of inspiration to me. Take note in the photo with the fireplace, Lisa stitched my Nine Shaft Sampler and it is on display on a vintage chair. Thanks Lisa for creating a stitcher's heaven!! For more information on The Village Stitchery, the website is: http://www.villagestitcheryshop.com.

As Always,

Beth