Phew Weee!  What a couple months we have had.

This has been a very hectic, grueling, emotional, traumatic and stressful few months at Arthur Acres.  Life has dealt a few bumps that has resulted in our decision to downsize from our 43 year residence. Those who know of our home know how much of a change/loss this is to us.  We felt it was time, however difficult it might be, to make this major change while we both had our health and ability to do so.  Arthur Acres has just become unmanageable for me to handle basically by myself at this stage in our lives.

So, after several trips to Good Will,  dumpster loads and hasty decisions we have gotten our 'stuff' to an almost manageable size.  I am hopeful that I will be able to get back on track and direct my attention to my love of needlework.

It is important that I add here that we would not have been able to get through  this  process as well as we did without the hard work, pushing, support, and love of our children.  Young muscles and unattached sentiments are quite helpful at times like these!

My next focus is the ANG Seminar being held in Atlanta next month.  I will be teaching techniques classes:  one is on Beards and the other is on Baskets!  Creating kits this coming week so that will be a good distraction from the boxes that still need to be emptied (but not critical).

Once we return from Seminar we will be concentrating on our upcoming Duo Designs Stitching Retreat at General Butler Resort State Park in Carrollton, KY in September.  We are very excited about this fun event in  a peaceful setting.

Then in October we will be heading abroad and enjoying our Greek Isles Stitching Cruise!  So looking forward to playing again aboard the beautiful Azamara ship!

Okay, enough about what has been distracting me here at Arthur Acres.

Duo Designs Stitching Retreat - September 2023

Can you believe we are processing registration fees for the upcoming Stitching Retreat featuring Gayla Elliott's Stitching Girls?  Where did the time go?

We have the full gamut of stitchers from beginners to the seasoned ones.  They hail from California to Pennsylvania! They are stitchers, teachers, designers, distributors, vendors, etc.  We are going to have so much fun and gain knowledge beyond the classroom!

If you are still considering joining us, do no drag your feet too long - the clock is ticking.  Just email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com so you can come play with us.

ONLINE CLASSES

Our new/repeat class the Three Wisemen Encore has had its first session shared with participants.  Session II will be soon. This class is back by popular request!  It is not kitted, however.  Participants obtain their own canvas and supplies from the materials list provided.  Look out stash!  Here they come!

The 8-lesson packet is provided online through a private group.  You read the lessons at your leisure and stitch the same way.  You control your own schedule.  To enjoy this process with us just send an email to duodesignsinc@gmail.com.

NEEDLES 'N FINS STITCHING ADVENTURES

Another fast approaching adventure is the Stitching Cruise to the Greek Islands!  Greece awaits us!  But, we just so happen to be going to stop and spend the first 2 days in Venice!  Who doesn't always welcome more time in Venice?  I may have left a Murano glass bead or two there from the last visit!

We have the good fortune to travel once again on the beautiful Azamara cruise lines!  Below is a picture of one of our last adventures with them.

As you can see, light for stitching is no problem!

This trip's exclusive design is fashioned after the beautiful area of Santorini.  Santorini Splendor  documents the fabulous blue theme of the area.  The rugged shoreline is evident with the constant movement of the water.  Flowers flourish to add color sprinkled all about.

This optional class kit is hand painted on 18 ct canvas.  There is a plethora of threads used including the addition of silk ribbon! The kit is $395.  Kit will be mailed to the participants prior to departing the States to those who choose to join this class.  This allows time to set up your supplies and stretch the canvas to your liking.  The stitch guide will be shared in Venice!  Email if you wish to have this Optional Exclusive Design to duodesignsinc@gmail.com.

Should you choose to not participate in the optional class you may bring something from your stash to stitch.  If this is the option you wish to pursue it would be helpful if you forward a picture of what you will be stitching and what area you desire teacher assistance. This will give us a heads up for ideas to bring your canvas to life

That's all the time I have for now - till next time.

 CANVASES ARE IN - YAY!

If you are waiting for the canvas for Two by Two from Strictly Christmas, I understand that have been received from the painters!  Shops that have ordered will be sent theirs right away.  If you have not yet ordered your canvas be sure to check with your LNS to get yours.

Here's some of the cuteness to be had in the class.

If you would like to join us just email us at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com. We've on worked some of the background so far - no animals.

Next: Our first lesson will be posted mid-March for the Raymond Crawford American Train Series.

Still time to join that one.  Just email us at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com for more information. Canvases are available and threads kits have been ordered for those who need assistance.  

POCKETBOOK SERIES

Books were put in the mail to those shops who preordered the latest POCKETBOOK Series edition Stitching with Stars.

This book is a real beauty!  I love her cover!  Check with your LNS to get your copy before they are gone!

While you are at it - do you have your Pocketbook Packet?  You don't want to miss out.

Have you registered for your ANG Seminar classes ?  Seminar is in Kansas City, MO August 6-13, 2021.  Come join the fun! A wide diversity of classes for you to choose from.  Go to needlepoint.org and get all the details including registration forms.  Hope to see you there -  btw I'm teaching 3 classes!

Stay safe!

 

COVID VACCINATIONS

I'm getting closer!  Next week I get my second Covid vaccine!  I'm very excited to get this done!  Hubby has both his.  Our son received his first one this past week.,

ONLINE MYSTERY CLASSES, ETC.

We posted our mid-month classes this past week.  Always so fun and they come around much too quickly.

We finally got to start the Two by Two canvas from Strictly Christmas.

The first session involved the border, the sky and the rainbow!.  Next up we will start playing with the characters - over 15!

In Spring Welcome from PLDesigns, we finished the needle felting technique to cover our bunny.

Everyone seems to be really enjoying the felting process.  I tried something new for me. I offered a Zoom meeting providing the opportunity for participants to discuss any issues they might have.  Good idea.  Problem was I'm not too good at Zoom.  I pretested and everything was great.  The minute the meeting went live, however, I could not get the mic to work, etc,.  Eventually we were able to communicate - but not before I became totally frustrated with my inefficiency with techy stuff! I have very little patience with stuff like this.

Next up we will add the finishing touches to the bunny and other stumpwork areas.  Stay tuned.

Lovable Llama 'grew' fur this lesson.

I was having so much fun on this guy that I had to make myself quit adding more and more fur.  Isn't it wonderful? ! ?

We are preparing our upcoming new class - American Train by Raymond Crawford.  This 6 session project begins mid-March.  The 6-lesson packet is $175.

The first two sessions will cover the Engine.  Each canvas will be covered in 2 sessions.  Sessions are planned to be shared every couple weeks - basically 2 a month.

To join the class just email us at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com.  Canvases are in stock and ready to be sent out right away.   

BOOKS

We introduced our new book Stitching with Stars to shop owners last week for preordering.

Diagrams and many photos are packed into this little guy.  We have a guest star provided by the one and only Amy Bunger too!  Love it!

The preorders are going great and well above expectations. Contact your Local Needlepoint Shop and get your name on the list to receive one of the first books distributed! 

The two other 'siblings' of the Pocketbook Series are also joining the shipping with this new introduction.  Many want to make sure they have all three. They are great to have and not too burdensome to carry around.  

ANG SEMINAR - KANSAS CITY

If you have not already done so be sure to check out the classes being hosted by ANG for the upcoming Seminar in Kansas City, MO.  Go have a look at needlepoint.org - there you will find the forms needed to sign up, individual descriptions of all the classes being offered, and lodging information.  We would be delighted to have you in one of our three classes!

Space is limited so be sure to sign up early.

The Vessels from The Art Needlepoint

I love the design space that allows students the room to become comfortable with the technique being shared.

HANDPAINTED CANVASES

Many of you may not be aware that Duo Designs, Inc. introduced a line of hand painted canvases at a recent Trade Show.  You may see what we have to offer at our website duodesignsinc.com.  Have a look and if you find something you would like contact your local needlepoint shop or pick one from the list of retail shops provided on our website.  They will be happy to assist you with your next project selection.

ETSY SHOP - DuoDesignsbySandra

Check out our Etsy Shop for stitch guides and surplus class items,  A few canvases left over from classes are listed in the shop. I seem to manage to always over stock.  I don't like to disappoint my students if possible.

Please stay safe and warm.  Wishing we return to some normalcy before too much longer.

 WINTER TIME IN CENTRAL KENTUCKY

We are having a frigid wave!  Mercy!  And I do NOT like cold.  Our wonderful fireplace has been placed in turbo mode.  We've had a fire almost every day for the past week! Love them. Ice is extremely dangerous and we cannot walk outside - even with the area salted.  We have large broken tree branches blocking our driveway but fortunately we do not need to get out.  This is supposed to remain for several more days - tomorrow prediction shows 9 degrees!  WOW!  But the cold weather will soon pass and spring is just around the corner.

POCKETBOOK SERIES 

We are thrilled to release a third book in our Pocketbook Series.  Stitching With Stars will hit the shop shelves mid-March.  

Here's a sneak peek of one of the pages in the book.  

Shops have been preordering. Check with your LNS and make sure you have your name on the upcoming shipments.

ONLINE CLASSES

Speaking of Spring, Spring Welcome has been so much fun.  This coming week we will be working more on the needle felting portion of the design.  Students are enjoying their first try at needle felting.

In Lovable Llama we'll be giving him lots of fur.  This is such fun!

Can a Llama have too much fun hair?

We are all geared up to begin our new classes soon.

Our class beginning Monday is the first of 8 sessions on the wonderful Two By Two from Strictly Christmas.

I have really enjoyed stitching on this piece.  So many interesting threads are suggested for you to play with.  I can't wait to share.  Look at this cute pair of birdies - just 2 among the 15 characters in this fabulous piece!

The American Train by Raymond Crawford is going to be another great stitch.  I have added a little optional challenge for those who want to give it a try.  Registration is open.

Still plenty of time to register for both these classes.  Just email us at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com.

Needles 'N Fins Stitching Adventures

We all are getting the cabin fever pretty bad.  However, things are looking up.  Reservations for our Hawaiian Island Hopping Stitching Cruise appears promising on the horizon.

We have lots to take in on this adventure and it is in one of our very own states!  See all those dots on the islands?

How about the optional class kit?  If you notice all those dots are represented in some way on the souvenir design.

Check in with our agent Russ Dunlap at russ@platinumtvl.com for travel details.  You may request your own personal brochure if you wish.  We'd love to have you join us.  September 30 thru October 9, 2021!

On another front . . . 

Hubby has had his second Covid vaccine and I am scheduled to have my second one next week!  Woo Hoo.  The numbers in Kentucky are going down so that is very encouraging.

Enjoy the weekend and please stay safe and warm (if applicable).

 ANOTHER SEMINAR ON THE HORIZON!

Are you a member of ANG?  Lucky you!  Registration opens for ANG members for the Seminar this coming Monday, February 8.  Others can register beginning February 15. This year's Seminar is to be held in Kansas City, MO and is scheduled to in person.  

Now one of the big advantages for being an ANG member and getting to register early is that there is limited capacity for the classes as set forth by the hotel.  So go to their website and take a look at what is being offered!  needlepoint.org - go to events and you should find the seminar registration form, classes offered, host hotel, etc. 

We are fortunate enough to have been selected to teach 3 classes this year.

Up first is miss Heloise Hooty - 20701 scheduled for August 7-8, 2021.

Isn't she just the coolest?  She has a plethora of stitches and techniques that we will be sharing.  In addition to specialty fibers, beads and crystals, there will be needle felting and a felting needle is provided.  The design area its 9" x 9" and is painted on 18ct canvas. Thorough stitch instructions with clear diagrams and a color photo of the finished design. This gal is lots and lots of fun! This is a handpainted canvas from ACOD. We will provide information for ordering an upgrade of felting tools for those who are registered for the class.

One of my favorites for the student who is not real confident in their execution of stitches or who may desire more area to practice is this fabulous design of Vessels - 20901 - August 9-10, 2021.

I love the amount of canvas area that this design affords the student to really get the feel of the stitch or technique.  This canvas is printed on 18 ct. canvas with a design area of 14" x 14".  The canvas is from The Art Needlepoint Co.  There are beautiful silks, metallics and detailed instructions with clearly marked diagrams for the student.

Our third class is a one-day workshop - Conventional Techniques with Unconventional Resources - 11101 - August 11, 2021.

My my, get those creative juices flowing!  This notebook class will have students working with unique embellishments and techniques to further enhance their canvas.  All materials needed for the class are provided - many on a shared basis.  We have sequins, beads, ribbon, washers, gaskets, and on and on with which to play.

So if you see something of interest to you don't drag your feet.  Because of social distancing, etc., space is very limited.  I'd love to see you in my classes!

Go get registered!

 COLD, COLD DAY HERE IN CENTRAL KENTUCKY!

I am not good at 'cold'.  So I chose to think about our Hawaiian Island Hopping Stitching Cruise.  Today we shared the picture of the Optional Class Kit that participants may purchase if they want something unique.

So much about our upcoming trip is documented in this piece!  Lots of fun to stitch.  Lots of interesting threads and fascinating stitches and techniques.  Can't wait to share with our cruising stitchers. Email us at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com for information on the trip and the Optional class - or visit Needles 'N Fins Stitching Adventures group for discussion.

I'm getting so excited.  I get my first Covid shop this coming Tuesday!  Yay. Hubby got his first one a couple weeks ago at the VA.  He gets his second one next week.

ONLINE MYSTERY CLASSES

I made a giant leap for me today.  I host4ed a Zoom meeting with some of my online class participants.  This techie stuff drives me crazy. I think it went fair.  The biggest issue from my end was to get my new wireless headset set up.  I couldn't tell if I was projecting or not.,  Eventually I got that part fixed.  I think I should be able to hear the participants better so I need to work on that.  Oh well, as they say, Rome wasn't made in a day.

It was really great to see everyone!  That was a real bonus for a dreary day.  Lifts your spirits immediately.

Looking forward to the next one in a couple weeks.

Our adorable Two by Two from Strictly Christmas will have its first session in a couple weeks.  Excited to share this with everyone.  So many fabulous threads that I know many have never used before. The 15+ animals give us lots and lots of technique possibilities.  Great fun to stitch.

Each pair of animals is a design all their own.  Here's a close up of the piggies.

Remember that registration is open for Raymond Crawford's American Train now.

Just email us at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com to sign up for any of the classes.

BOOKS

Our newly introduced book for the Pocketbook Series Leaping Thru Leaves has taken off like gangbusters.

Even though the first shipments went out mid-January, many shops are already on their 2nd or 3rd reorder.  We are beyond ecstatic at the success of this little guy. Thank you all for your support! To get your copy if you haven't already be sure to check with your Local Needlework Shop.

 

I'm odd to stitching now and enjoying my wonderful fire.  Stay safe everyone.

STITCH AWAYS ARE VERY PRODUCTIVE!

We (my daughter and I) did not let any moss grow under our needlework projects this past weekend.  Teresa even finished some and made a bad dent in others.  I accomplished quite a bit as well.  Some stitching and some class preparation.

We planned ahead and did a pretty good job of it.  We had great meals and our suite had a full sized refrigerator to accommodate what we brought.  We lacked for nothing.  The snow fell, some days heavier than others. n We did not mind, however, as we were snug, had our needlework and plenty of food.

Guess how many sweaters I have on - lol.

  I think there was a TV in the room - (I think it is that black rectangular thing on the right LOL) - but it is none the worse for wear from our lack of use. Wasn't even on nor missed! We had other priorities.

We have promised ourselves to try to do this more than once a year!

LEAPING THRU LEAVES    

Our newest release in our Pocketbook Series - Leaping Thru Leaves - is leaping out the door.  We have already had a second printing.  

Check with your Local Needlework Shop (LNS) for your copy.  Many are on repeat orders so you may need to preorder from them.

NEEDLES 'N FINS STITCHING ADVENTURES - Facebook Group

    NOTICE:  Be sure to check this group in the next day or two (maybe tomorrow even) as we hope           to share the Optional Class Project for those participants who want to purchase them.

This week we look at days October 3 and 4 on our cruise.  We arrive at Kahalui, Maui and stay there overnight and most of October 4.  We leave at 6 pm.  I had a personal family member tell me that Lahaina was her favorite part of her Hawaii vacation several years back.

Some excursion possibilities offered include the historical district of Wailuku. Take a motor trip on the Road to Hana - you enjoy the views while someone else maneuvers the curves and twists of the highway.Snorkeling anyone?  It is stated that one of the top ten snorkel sites in the world is here. There's lots of other nature possibilities - how about seeing how lavender is added to products.. Stroll a beautiful botanical garden.  Ocean Vodka - sounds interesting don't you think? Check out how Hawaii's best-selling vodka is made.Of course the Maui Ocean Center sounds incredible - lots to see and learn.

How about if you want to just stay close in and enjoy the wonderful weather?  That is most likely what hubby and I will be doing for the major part of the trip.  He will be napping and I will be - - - you guessed it - stitching and checking on my fellow stitchers who might be onboard relaxing after exciting mornings.

Just email us at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com or our agent Russ at russ@platinumtvl.com to get your own brochure.

ONLINE MYSTERY CLASSES

Registration is active for the next classes in line.  Two by Two - Noah's ark is up next from Strictly Christmas. I understand that canvases have been shipped so we are ready to go. While we will be revealing the stitched piece the execution of stitches/techniques and threads are still a mystery.

This is a large canvas and has so much to offer in techniques and thread selections. You still have time to join us for this delightful piece.  There are 15 animals (sets) and of course Noah - plus the border, rainbow and background.  Even if no little ones are in your life think of the little ones at various nurseries - hospital, church, etc., and make a wonderful donation. It will be worth it if nothing more than for the delight of stitching and experiencing the wondrous threads.  If you need assistance let us know as we have shops that kits the classes to our exact specifications. 

Here's a sneak peek at one pair of animals.  

This is no bull - you will learn how to make this fabulous free flowing tail and switch - think of all the ways you can use this technique.  To register just email us at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com.  This is an 8 session class as there is so much to cover. 

The canvases have been shipped for the American Train by Raymond Crawford also.

We plan. to start this ASAP in hopes of your having it finished in time for the 4th of July celebrations if you desire.  Just check with us at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com to register. This class will be 6 sessions with approximately 2 sessions a month.

Gotta go now and work on finishing the fabulous Hawaiian piece!  Stay safe!