BEAUTIFUL DAY IN CENTRAL KENTUCKY

FIRST OF THE 'QUICKIES' SHIPPED AND READY FOR LESSON ONE!

Raymond Crawford's USA Star is shining bright on this holiday weekend. While it may be alone for this holiday there are more joining it soon - very soon!  The first lesson will be sent the beginning of the week - Monday or Tuesday.  If you are participating and do not receive an email from me let me know right away at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com.  If you would still like to join us just email me at the same address and we'll get you all set.  This is easily completed before the 4th of July!  Just sayin'!













Help celebrate Memorial Day, Presidents Day, Flag Day, Armed Forces Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Patriot Day, Columbus Day, Veteran's Day, and every day to show our pride in being Americans and enjoying the Freedom our military have sacrificed to ensure for us.  I am proud to say that I come from a long line of military personnel, both enlisted personnel and career officers, closest to me is my hubby who was a Marine and served 4 years during the Korean Conflict - Father, Brother, many Cousins, Uncles, etc.  I am a flag waver and proud of it!

Next up will be the Eagle Star from Raymond.  This guy will stand majestically proud next to the USA Star!  

This all-inclusive kit is $120 which includes the hand painted canvas, threads and two-lessons posted in pdf format. Email me at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com if interested.  

Are you ready for a BIG surprise?  Look who will follow in the 'QUICKIE' Series!  Uncle Sam!

Uncle Sam is an exclusive for Duo Designs for our Quickie Series.  He is from Pepperberry Designs!  I am so excited to be able to share him with you.  Don't have all inclusive kit cost yet  (I'm guessing between $130 and $150) but design area is approximately 4" x 5.25".  Isn't he perfect to join our group! Email me if you would like to be on the notification list - duodesignsinc@yahoo.com

Keep in mind that these classes have limited enrollment because of canvas availability.  We estimate the number needed for the anticipated enrollment and when they are gone they are gone.  We do not reorder so that we may have a quick (QUICKIE) turn around.

OTHER HAPPENINGS:

This past week I was featured on the Fibertalk Podcast with Gary and Christine.
   
If you missed the Podcast and would like to listen here is a direct link to it.                    http://wetalkfiber.com/2017/05/21/fiber-talk-with-sandra-arthur/

During the conversation Christine and I discussed the issue of sore fingers from quilting.  I shared with her that I still have the same issue when I do marathon stitching (which is all the time).  One finger gets holes poked in it and is very difficult to work around.  And, I cannot, just flat out cannot wear a thimble. Never fear!  Jim and Terry Collingham of Colonial Needles always come to the rescue. They have several wonderful products that I have used on various occasions - the occasions dictate that I usually use the one I can find in my stuff first.  But I love them all and they work wonders.  So I thought I'd divert a little and share some of these with you.

My first choice is the ThimblePad.  This is Item #SM100 and has 12 pads in the package.  These little leather pads have a self-adhesive backing and I just place them on the sensitive spot.  The picture I am sharing shows one of the leather pads that I have used for a week - I have washed my hands several times during the day, and I remove it at night and place it in a safe place to use it again the next day (hoping I can remember where I put it).  Once the adhesive no longer holds or it gets so grungy that I can't stand it, I will toss it and use another one.  I cherish them and get every minute of use out of them that I can. They are wonderful buffers for me in my daily stitching.  


                             










Another protective finger tip pad I use when I don't need quite the thick protection of the ThimblePad is  Thimble-It.  These guys are thinner and oval in shape.  I generally use them for the day and toss them - mainly because they are clear and I can't find them if I take them off.

Then there is what I call the big guns! The ThimbleCrown.

These guys are like the tip end of the metal thimbles (that I just cannot wear).  They, too, have an adhesive tab for securing to your finger tips.  I find these very helpful when I am doing some heavy type stitching that is difficult to push the needle through - for instance leather, or some types of appliqué.  

So if your needlepoint shop does not carry these (and please don't expect them to but you can ask them as many do - or maybe they'd like to know about them to add) they are generally available at craft stores and almost all fabric stores.  The first place I look is in the quilting section.

STITCH GUIDES

As classes are completed a revised (and much condensed) stitch guide is offered for commercial sale.  There are entirely too many pictures shared in the Online Class that cannot be included in a commercial guide as the price would be extremely high so time is needed for editing before offer to general public is possible. Also, from time to time, I am able to fit in a few custom requests for stitch guides. These various stitch guides are available through my website www.duodesignsinc.com and are downloadable.  Check the menu bar across the top to view what is available. The Webmaster tries to keep them listed by designer.

ONLINE MYSTERY CLASSES:  

The first lesson was posted for the Laurel Burch design by Danji Songbirds.  

We did the background - surprise! right? - and the tree branches that the birds perch on.  This will prepare us for the really fun stuff ahead!

Another couple of candles were added to the Menorah:

Steampunk Fox now has a coat and trousers:

And the Large Easter Rabbit also has a wonderful jacket and hat.

Get ready for the upcoming new classes as well!  More about those later.  But I do want to mention that the next one is CUPCAKES!

First lesson is scheduled to post mid-July!  Invoices will be sent the first of June.  If you would like to join in this whimsical piece just send an email to duodesignsinc@yahoo.com

Have you registered for the Needlepoint in New England Retreat April 2018?  If not you better hurry as classes are filling quickly.  Here's the link: website http://enrichedstitch.com/april-2018 -

I am teaching the wonderful exclusive from Maggie that I call Winter Cardinal.  So fun.  I believe there are a couple spots left but don't know for how long.  Go have a look!

So, need to get back at it here!  Have a safe and wonderful holiday weekend!

Remember to stitch with a smile!

ALWAYS MOVING FORWARD . . .

First up is to remind all that the updates for the Shapes of Needlepoint and Shapes of Needlepoint 2 Apps are totally updated to handle the new IOS 10 and are available for updating for those who have them.  For those who do not but would like to purchase them, jump over to iTunes and get them on your iPad and iPhone now!  Don't miss out on this convenience.

Direct link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/shapes-of-needlepoint/id427293791

Direct link: https://itunes.apple.com/app/shapes-of-needlepoint-2/id467111679

I get many inquiries as to whether or not I plan to make III and IV into apps or for android.  Sadly, at this point in time there are no such plans in place.  Plans can change however but as for now the answer is no.

ROAD ADVENTURES:

I just finished teaching the fun and cute Heloise Hooty by ACOD (now B & B) to the fantastic ANG Piney Pointers Group.  We had such fun and what a setting.  I am always happy to get invited to LaTorretta Resort in Conroe, TX.  I have been fortunate that this has been my fourth visit to the place.  So relaxing and you can't ask for a more peaceful setting.

Next on the trip was three days of embellishment at Chandail in Houston, TX.  We had a plethora of canvases on which we  embellished and brought to life.  Such colorful and delightful designs that the students had selected for us to play with (I know I ended with a preposition - shoot me!). I have as much fun as they do.

NOW FORWARD:

Now I am home and am facing the 'catching up' that must be done after being away for an extended period.  The next group of lessons were timely posted - phew!  It was sorta touch and go since I had a big gap of 2 weeks of my 'normal' life totally erased from my calendar - but we made it.

Needlepoint in New England Retreat April 27-29, 2018!

This event is held in Connecticut and hosted by The Enriched Stitch.  Look at this wonderful Maggie piece that I call Winter Cardinal.  It is an exclusive for The Enriched Stitch and offers so much to explore! Isn't he wonderful?

The response to this class has been amazing and I am very flattered and looking forward to the event. In the meanwhile the fingers are flying and the brain is whirring with ideas!

For information and to register, visit the website http://enrichedstitch.com/april-2018 - this is an adventure waiting to happen! Lots of fun stuff to consider. Spaces are filling quickly I understand!

WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE WORLD OF ONLINE MYSTERY CLASSES?

This month we introduced a new class entitled Songbirds from Danji - an interpretation of the Laurel Burch designs.  

There is still time to participate if interested.  The first lesson covers the background so that is going to take a bit of time so you will not be 'behind'. We are aware of some canvases in stock so there should be minimal waiting for the canvas at this point.  If assistance is needed just email us at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com

QUICKIES

The kits for the first QUICKIE - USA STAR from Raymond Crawford are being packed and ready for shipping next week.  Participants expect an email from me stating that your kit is on the way.  Let me know if you do not hear from me and you think you are part of the group.  There are a limited number of these kits so if you want to join us it is a first-come, first-served for those few remaining.  This all-inclusive class included the painted canvas, threads, embellishments and two lessons posted in pdf format for a price of only $100.  Just drop an email to duodesignsinc@yahoo.com if you want to join in!

Next up for the QUICKIES is the STAR EAGLE from Raymond.  It will work well as a companion piece.

                                    

This all-inclusive kit is $120 which includes the canvas, threads and two-lessons posted in pdf format. Email me at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com if interested.  

Keep in mind that these classes have limited enrollment because of canvas availability.  We estimate the number needed for the anticipated enrollment and when they are gone they are gone.  We do not reorder so that we may have a quick (QUICKIE) turn around.

PERSONAL - SORTA

I recently shared the photo below with a friend of what my husband did this past winter while I was on the road so much. I know we discuss stash, but, my stash is embarrassing - and I love it!  No apologizes.

And what is more sinful, he made me two.  This one happens to hold my beads and beading supplies.  Not my jewelry making beads (that's another story), just my needlework beads, charms, buttons, thread, etc.

The long drawers are where I keep my current work-in-progress projects for the Online Mystery Classes as I rotate them.

He had made the drawers so that a 'dry drink' container will lie flat - each drawer will hold 6 regular and 6 adapted ones that he cuts off for me.

  

There is also a work shelf that comes in handy.  And, yes, notice the foot stool.  I am tall but I cannot see over the tops of the top couple drawers.  However, that is where I put the less used items such as felted balls, etc.  

 

And, if you think my cup doesn't runneth over - look what popped up this morning!

Eldest Granddaughter with her two babies!

I am truly blessed and thank the Lord every day of my life for my bounty!  Have a great weekend and week!

Me thinks I should get my butt out there and deadhead!

ALWAYS ACTIVITY . .  .

When I start thinking about what might be in store for us on the horizon  - along it comes.  I shared with you last week the possibility of doing classes on JP Needlepoint's new Cattitude and Dog Gone Good canvases.  Well they are no longer a possibility.  The support for these fun designs is going out the roof! Based on number of interest emails, Cattitude will be up first for classes.

While this group of kitties does not look like it has much complex areas to consider, they sure do have a lot of fun areas.  We will see what we can do with interesting threads, techniques, maybe find some embellishments.  Who knows?  I have this design tentatively set for its first lesson to be posted around mid-March.  If you want on the notification list just email me at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com

Because several of you want to do both, we will take a 2-month break between the two.  The Dog Gone Good design will begin mid-May.

                               

Again, if you want on the notification list just email me at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com

          It is never too early to order your canvas from your LNS.  Let us know should
          you need assistance and we will see if we can help you out.

For those who are fairly new to my Blog and not sure how these Online Mystery Classes work.  Here's the scoop.  Classes generally cover a 6-month period unless stated otherwise (and there are some that are 'otherwise').  The lessons are billed up front through PayPal.  The invoices are processed about one month prior to the first lesson posting.The 6-Lesson Packet is generally $150.  Once payment is processed, participants are invited to join a secret Facebook Page.  There you will meet other participants and find 'house' rules and the materials list.  The secret Facebook page is where the monthly lessons are also posted - generally around the 15th.

The notification list I refer to is to alert you to the fact that somewhere along the line you stated you would be interested in the class.  This is to let you know that invoices are being mailed and if you really want to participate all you need do it pay the invoice.  If you changed your mind just ignore the invoice.  No consequences.  I generally will send you one follow-up email to make sure that you did, in fact, get the notice.  Easy!  Right?

Scroll through older posts to see information about the various class offerings.

SONGBIRDS:

Songbirds has their first lesson in just a few more days!  Kits have been invoiced and are being mailed this coming week for those who requested assistance.  We know of a few more canvases that are available so if you know someone wanting to join us just have them email me and we can hook you up!  duodesignsinc@yahoo.com

As some of you may have seen on my personal Facebook Page, I received the wonderful news that I did in fact pass the Stumpwork portion of the Royal School of Needlework class offerings.  I will be receiving my Diploma for that achievement shortly.  This was a rather intense course over a 12-day period (and nights were not free - well, they were but you actually spent them ripping out what you did in the day and putting them back in - personal choice, right - LOL).  The tutors are wonderful.  However, they are not wishy-washy about how techniques are to be done and what is expected of the student.  I am so glad I did this.  It was a lovely experience.  My Patriotic Angel got a little wear on her journey but nothing I can't fix.  Looks like her face sorta did something funky on the left side.

For those interested, the RSN also has day classes, etc., that are not quite as intense so if you don't want the journey of receiving a certificate or a diploma you might look into those offerings.  They cover every category in this small classes as well - just not as intense.

QUICKIE ALERT !

I heard that the USA Star canvases should be on their way in a few days.  That means that the kits will be going out shortly.  These are Raymond Crawford Designs.

So if you signed up for the Quickie Class and paid your invoice, you will be getting an email advising when the kits will be mailed.  There is still time to participate!  Remember it is an all-inclusive fee of $100 - threads, embellishments, painted canvas and 2 lessons sent in pdf format.  Just email me at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com if you still want to be added to the fun.

The next Quickie is a companion star - the Eagle Star.  Registration is currently being handled for this class.

Class cost for this guy will be posted shortly.  Just email at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com and request to be added to the notification list.

Excited to be a part of the upcoming Needlepoint in New England Retreat April 27-29, 2018!

This event is held in Connecticut in April 2018 and hosted by The Enriched Stitch.  Look at this wonderful Maggie piece that I call Winter Cardinal.  It is an exclusive for The Enriched Stitch and offers so much to explore! Isn't he wonderful?

For information and to register, visit the website http://enrichedstitch.com/april-2018 - this is an adventure waiting to happen!

In the meanwhile, I will be heading west again - and guess where?  Texas again!  I will be enjoying the company of the ANG Piney Pointers at LaTorretta Resort in Montgomery, TX and teaching the delightful Heloise Hooty.

 

We will laugh and giggle through needle felting, stretching threads, playing with funky threads, and all kinds of techniques, including beading!  This design is chocked full of different things to do but because of her size it does work up fairly quickly.  

Then, I leave LaTorretta and head into Houston to teach a 3 day embellishment class at Chandail.  If you are in the area stop by and say hello and look at all the fun pieces being worked on.

Scroll down and take a look at what is coming up soon.  There is so much fun in store for us!

Sandy

RETREATS ARE SO MUCH FUN!

I could not resist the invitation to stitch at the Needlepoint in New England Retreat in Connecticut in April 2018 hosted by The Enriched Stitch.  Look at this wonderful Maggie piece that I call Winter Cardinal.  It is an exclusive for The Enriched Stitch and offers so much to explore!  I have ideas going crazy!  Take a look at this and other classes and consider coming to join us - April 27, 28, 29, 2018.  Go the enrichedstitch.com and look under retreats - all the information is there. Of course, I would be thrilled if you decided to join me in stitching this wonderful guy.  Hmmmm, open stitches, stump work, thread painting, boucle`, straw silk, is there some place e I can add beads?, silks of all kinds, shiny, dull, texture, on and on - and I haven't even started stitching yet!

FUN CONSIDERATIONS! 

I cannot ignore these colorful, playful, happy new canvases from JP Needlepoint. They just make me smile and feel good! I am going to do them as some kind of Online Class just haven't totally decided what venue yet.  Let me know if one or both appeal to you and I'll just see where it leads.  Email me at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com

Catitudes

           Dog Gone Good                                                   

They have to be fun!  Look at all the colors, spaces, patterns - OH MY!
                                                         *.   *.   *.   *.   *

WELL, here we are at the end of another month - which means more new lessons will be posting soon.  Gosh Menorah is moving along at Lesson 3, Steampunk Fox is into Lesson 4 and the Large Easter Rabbit is into Lesson 5 - where, or where, has the time gone?  Additionally we will be posting the first lesson of Songbirds.

Songbirds - Danji

Everyone should have received their invoices for the class lessons at this point and those that have paid should have been invited to the secret Facebook Page where you will find the materials list.  Additionally those who inquired about full kits, thread kits, etc., you will be hearing from me and receiving invoices if applicable.  If you have not and think you have signed up for this class or asked for assistance with supplies please notify me right away at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com.

This brings me to mention the next inline new Online Mystery Class - Cupcakes by BB Needlepoint.

It is never too early to get your canvas ordered.

We are branching out here and using some very unusual threads and techniques with which to tantalize you. I gotta make you a little crazy - right?  Hey, I even threw in some basketweave because we all know that all pieces should have a little basketweave so the eye can rest.  Ribbons, beads, textures beyond the moon, glitz, shine, metallics, oh well - that's enough right now.  As always check with your LNS to order your canvas and let us know if you need assistance.

Community Service Announcement:

Life got in the way and a participant in the Pillow Collage class has her canvas and threads up for sale.  Let me know if you are interested and we will arrange for you to communicate with each other.
No lessons are included with this transaction as they are only available through the secret FaceBook Group Class but can be purchased.  Just email with questions, etc. duodesignsinc@yahoo.com.
                                                                                              
                                                                           * * * * *
 APPS
Have you been getting that annoying message "This app will not work with future versions of IOS.  The developer of this app needs to update it to improve its compatibility."  Well, if you have the Shapes App I and Shapes App II never fear - the developer is on it and you should not get a  hiccup when the transition occurs.

Don't have these apps yet?  Well get on it  - here are the direct links to my Apps for your convenience - all you have to do is hit - 'Pay" or 'Buy Now" - a very important step.  (You might have to copy and paste these links in case I have done something incorrectly in copying.)

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/shapes-of-needlepoint/id427293791
https://itunes.apple.com/app/shapes-of-needlepoint-2/id467111679

So back to the grindstone - you know that needlepoint is work right?  I somehow can't convince my husband that this is a true statement!

We interrupt this blog posting for a special announcement!  Look what I got Wednesday!

Maya Elizabeth 

Our third great-grandchild!  She is so beautiful! We are all so blessed beyond description!

Big Sister Emmi meets her new charge Maya Elizabeth 

Proud Papa Manuel and Momma Emma 

SPRING!  SPRING! SPRING!

I don't know about where you live but Spring here in Central Kentucky is glorious!  My favorite dogwood tree is all abloom!  I so love them and this one never disappoints.  The fresh air just fills your senses and gives the feeling of everything new and bright!  My next favorite thing is a spring shower.  Isn't it wonderful how clean everything looks after a quick shower by Mother Nature?

Last week we got all the new lessons posted so everyone should be busy, busy, busy stitching away.  I know I am.

I have the upcoming Texas trip in May to go play with Piney Pointers and stitch Miss Heloise Hooty from ACOD and then stop and play at Chandail.  All those ducks are in a row and I am happily looking forward to the adventure.

After that will the the TNNA Market in Ohio.  I'm not sure about this one.  I don't feel that it has the same enthusiasm that years past have shown.  It just seems to be drifting, drifting, drifting . . . .  we'll just have to wait and see.  I'm teaching two classes there this summer.  One is from The Point of it All Designs these too cute Partying Yorkies!

Wait until you see these 'wild' girls all decked out while they are celebrating!

The other is a techniques class on Can Do Hairdos.  We'll have hands-on experience and play with some of the hairdos that are in my new book.

I'm ready to share my first Quickie class with the participants!  All I need is for the canvases to arrive from Raymond Crawford.  A vital part don't you think? Those of you who have already signed up and processed your invoices for the USA Star - the mailing labels are ready and are standing by!

As soon as this one goes out the door we will start the process for our second QUICKIE - kind of a companion - the American Eagle by Raymond Crawford.

Wow!  To me, the American Eagle is always breathtaking no matter what media!

In the wings we are gathering up speed for JP Needlepoint's Nutty Professor first session.

 

Remember this is the class that is for those who do not want the stress of a structured schedule.  We'll get a lesson when we get a lesson.  Right now the canvases are being painted and soon will be on their way.  The first session will begin at the bottom - just could not pass up that cuteness! For details or to be added to the participants list just email me at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com.  

INTERNATIONAL FLAVOR!

When we first began talking about the Party on the Po stitching riverboat cruise, it seemed like an eternity away!  Now it is just practically around the corner.  And we still have people inquiring and wanting to investigate joining us.  We have over 50+ paid and ready to travel!  Are we going to have a party or what?  We all will meet in Milan on October 19 and run around Italy like we have good sense, go back to the boat and drink wine and stitch (maybe if we can find the hole through which to poke the needle), laugh, relax and just enjoy the company of a whole slew of others that share the same crazy passion as we!  How better to spend 11 days?  Hard to beat I would think.  If you want more information just contact me at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com concerning the stitching part and Liz our travel agent at Viking Travel for the travel part  lwolak@vikingtvl.com  .  

Exclusive Optional Class Project

And, we are gearing up for next year!  Wait until you see what our next stitching riverboat cruise has in store for us!

UPCOMING Mystery Classes:

Thumbprints of what's on the schedule just as a reminder so you can take advantage of all the trunk shows that are going on.  Be sure to let me know if you see a fantastic canvas that you would like considered for one of our classes!

Moon Gazer - Brenda Stofft

Steampunk Witch - Brenda Stofft

Steampunk Cat - Brenda Stofft

Gingerbread House - Rebecca Wood

Cupcakes - BB Designs

Santa with Ornaments WREATH - Raymond Crawford

Steampunk Owl - Brenda Stofft

Stay tuned as we add more and more . . . .