Never Tire of the Needle

Isn't it amazing how those of us who have a passion for this seem to never tire of anything involving a needle.  I even resist going to sleep at times because I am so engrossed in whatever design I happen to be working on and I really resent needing to stop and go to bed.  I do so many times reluctantly.  When people ask me if I ever sleep I have a pet response - I never deprive myself of sleep or food - - probably should let that last item go a little but heck we only go around once.

Over on the Online Mystery Classes side the Swans finally came swimming home.

I am amazed that we have already gone through 7 of the 12 days!  Time is moving so swiftly.

I'm leaving this week for a wonderful f2f Embellishment 4-day session at Stitcher's Garden in Naperville, IL.  Several of my students from Designers Desk in Geneva, IL are coming over and it will be like a happy reunion.  I'm anxious to meet several new stitchers to me also.  Those who know me know that I always have fun so I'm ready for the challenge.  

After this excursion I'll be packing up for the ANG Seminar in Washington, DC.  Kits are almost ready for that one and looking forward to seeing lots of familiar faces there too.  You know, those events where you see some friends only once a year?  This is that event for me.  Be sure to come by even if you are not registered - there's lots of wonderful stuff to see at the Exhibit and of course you get to see the anxiously awaited reveal of the classes for 2019 ANG Seminar in Houston.  I have three classes on display here - come see.  And it is FREE!  

My next f2f class will be in Seattle, WA.  The SpaceNeedlers are hosting the beautiful Maggie piece that I have called Winter Cardinal.

Registration has closed for this class.  But - - - never fear!  It will be a class at the ANG Seminar in Houston in August 2019.  If you are not a member of ANG you can join now.  There are so many options - a chapter if you are fortunate enough to have some in your area, a member-at-large (I think that is still a viable membership) and the ever popular CyberPointers.  Go to the ANG website of needlepoint.org and check out the details.

The next f2f class after Seattle will be in Houston as well.  The Blue Bonnet Studios has such a wonderful array of teachers and class projects from which to choose.  I am fortunate to be teaching Captain Blackbeak's Wench from JP Needlepoint.

                                          

There are lots of interesting techniques in this exercise.  I think it is fun and I loved stitching her.

Needle felting, thread manipulating, feather creation variation, padding and much more! Check out all the classes and receive registration form over at  https://bluebonnetstudio.com/retreat-classes/. We'd love to have you join us. The Wench is a four-day class - February 17-20, 2019 in Houston, TX.

Have you met her boyfriend?  Captain Blackbeak?  

He is available through your LNS and there is a stitch guide for him as well on my website of duodesignsinc.com.

This week I am concentrating on the class project for our Stitching Down the Danube riverboat stitching cruise.  I really like how it is developing.  I can't share pictures just yet.  I would want to share them with the Cruise Participants first.  Maybe I can have something next week - depends on what life throws me.

Also working on exclusive design for the Canadian Rockies Train/Motor Coach stitching adventure.  That is going to be so peaceful and serene - WOW!  Just sit back and enjoy!  Right?

Contact our agent Liz at lwolak@vikingtvl.com for trip details.  It is April 2019 - full brochure is in the files section on the left column of this page.

That's it for this week!  Have a great weekend and remember to Stitch with a Smile!

JUST STUFF

Well my 2 weeks with Royal School of Needlework Tudors has come to an end. While there were 10 tutors here teaching I managed to get the same 2 for my term of 4 classes.  I must say that as much as I loved every minute of it I look forward to getting back to stitching things I can see.  Where are those holes?

My whitework was no surprise.  But, it is always so exciting to see someone else's approach to our stitching.  It is refreshing.  Sara is a lovely tutor and very nice and pleasant.  However . . .

Oh gosh Tambour!  One of the tudors wore a fabulous wrap done by a gentleman in our group!  So jealous!  And I will confess that our student progression examples aren't even close to what this is supposed to end up looking like!  LOL!  But I always wanted to try it and maybe I'll be able to incorporate in a future exercise.  We'll see.  Sara confirmed I'm doing it correctly and I can see that and see what I'm supposed to do but fat, arthritic hands have other ideas. Practice!  Practice!  Practice!

This is me with Sara - rare to stand next to another woman so much taller than I.

My Or Nue` experience reconfirmed my interpretation of how I am adapting the technique to needlepoint.  In fact my tutor said she was going to use my technique.  Very flattering.  One thing new for me was that I have not done Or Nue` in the round.  Fun to do.  I'll use her technique - pay back is only fair - right?

The Two Sides Alike was a little more intense for me.  First of all I'm a bleeder so those sharp needles and I had to come to a mutual respect for each other.  And I will say that now that I am on this end of that class I am anxious to redo it now that I know where I'm going.  For me the last technique helped explain how I should have done the first - I know that probably sounds crazy. I always do things in a weird way.

This is Amanda Ewing 'Mandy' who taught these 2 classes.  If you have the green covered Royal School of Needlework book that was published in 1998, Mandy had 4 - FOUR - pieces featured in gold work. She is also in a photo on the RSN website where Camilla is on the rightish and Sara is sitting on the left lecturing (uh! illustrating).  If we both look the worse for wear here it is because the days are catching up with us!

This was a great experience and all the RSN staff went above and beyond to make everyone comfortable with what they were trying to accomplish.  If given the opportunity jump at it.  

Some Duo Designs, Inc. Stuff

I am amazed at how many requests I still get for my books.  Most are several years old now and the newer ones are at the stage that I really just need to go hibernate and get them polished.  (That's what we all say, right?).  Anyway, for those newer folks who have joined my blog over the past several months here's a little glimpse of what I have out there.

SHAPES OF NEEDLEPOINT - SERIES I-14

These books are huge.  But that was deliberate.  Series I is 100 pages, Series II is 117 pages, Series III is 138 pages and Series IV is 118 pages.  They are heavy - about 2 pounds.  But, when I refer to a diagram to execute a stitch I want to be able to see it.  I want to be able to see the numbering (when there is such), and I need it to be a few feet away because I am using both hands to do the stitch so I don't want to be constantly picking up the book to see what I do next. 

Most pages show only one stitch or technique.  It may show some additional variations but mainly there is only one stitch to a page - even the little 4 x 4s.  

Another reason I have this setup is because when I am stitching I am easily distracted and my eyes might want to wander off.  This way there are not 5 other diagrams on the left for me to try to look at which I am concentrating on the one I am actually doing.

I have started a new series of books called Pocketbooks.  The first of this series was the Can Do Hairdos.

This little books is approximately 5" x 6" and is a fun series.  This book has 2 brothers in the wings waiting for final proofing - I know I'm such a slacker!

All these books are available through my website at duodesignsinc.com.  In fact I believe my webmaster has set it up so that there is a special for multiple copies, etc. Your LNS can also order them for you so don't hesitate to ask.

The first two books - Series I and Series II - have been made into Apps.

These are available and there is a shortcut on the right of this page - or at least there used to be.  While apps are wonderful for me they are very expensive to have produced because I am not a computer guru.  And I am at the age that I have that little gnawing whisper in the back of my head remember 8 track tapes, rotary dial phones, etc.  I am hesitate to invest five figures when the world of technology can just up and say tomorrow - sorry you are now antiquated.  So be it.

ONLINE MYSTERY CLASSES

Current very active enrollment is going on for the next new class Every Bunny Needs Some Bunny from JP Needlepoint. The other similar designs Catitudes and Dog Gone Good are so much fun and have a lot to offer.  I do not see this one being any different.

As a refresher let me introduce you to Teacher's Pet, Mr. Patriotic, Miss Bashful, Little Miss Orange, Miss Flower Power and Bottom's Up or Here's Looking at You (I think I like that better)!  To join us for the 6 lesson series just send email to duodesignsinc@yahoo.com. The classes are all online and are $150 for the 6-lesson packet.  The shop that is working with me is feverishly trying to locate all the 'stuff' that I manage to incorporate into my playful classes.  There will be an optional thread/embellishment kit for those who need assistance and also the opportunity to order the canvas if you do not have a LNS handy.  Come on over!  You'll love the fun!

Last week another set of lessons hit the Internet.   In no particular order -

We finished another doggie in Dog Gone Good - Miss Priss - JP Needlepoint

Over on the kitties we had - You Got Something to Say to Me? what an attitude - JP Needlepoint

Added some bushes on Moon Gazer - Brenda Stofft

Added blanket for the Reindeer with Bells - Raymond Crawford

Then there were lots of accessories on Snow Happy Trio - Love you More

The 7 Swans a Swimming were swimming slowly this month as I was involved in so many class projects, etc., but we will make it - albeit a couple days later than I have spoiled my students to expect.  Some forget that mid-month means before the 30th in my book - LOL.  I'm so bad.

NEW ONLINE MYSTERY CLASS FOR SEPTEMBER 2019

Look what is being added to the 2019 Agenda! This lovely new design from Sandra Gilmore - At the Seashore - the first Online Mystery Class lesson would be mid-September 2019 so lots of time to prepare. Let me know if you would like to be added to the notification list (no obligation but I need your email address). The 6-lesson packet is $150 and is billed through PayPal. All lessons are posted through a secret Facebook Page. Project is 14" x 14" on 18ct mono canvas. Optional kits will also be available for those needing assistance. Email me at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com.

So now that RSN is over I am concentrating on the Stitching Down the Danube optional class piece.  I am really liking how it is developing.  This riverboat stitching cruise is sold out but I thought some might still like to follow what is going on.

Along those same lines, Canadian Rockies Train/Motor Transport Stitching Adventure is in full swing!  The exclusive design is on the drawing board - someone said something about mountains, water and possibly a moose?  Who knows?

For information on this excursion review the brochure in the files section.  For travel questions contact our agent Liz at lwolak@vikingtvl.com and for stitching questions or anything else contact me at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com 

If you would like to follow our upcoming stitching adventures follow our closed Facebook page - Needles 'N Fins Stitching - come on over.

Enough for today - well, probably too much - but have a great weekend!  Bad storms here - without power for 15 hours - trees down, etc.  We were spared property damage - just no electric.

Stitch away folks!

WOW!  BRAIN OVERLOAD!

This past week I have been taking classes that are hosted by the Royal School of Needlepoint and taught by their tutors they brought from England.  These are not diploma classes like the ones I had before.  But they are so exciting and I just could not pass up the opportunity to take some classes right here in my back door!

I had two classes this week and I have two different classes next week. We started with a reception on Sunday evening (a beautiful and perfect Sunday evening I might add).  We were getting to meet our tutors and fellow students before we actually needed to delve into our projects.

My first class was a beautiful white brooch created in white work (guess how long it will stay white with me and my habits)!  It involved setting up the individual petals with backstitching, then stitching a design - one satin stitch sets and one pulled work rows - then couching down a wire, covering the wire, buttonholing the wire, cutting out the petals, mounting on linen for preparation to apply to a sieve brooch form and final touches of beads and French knots.  A very nice class and lovely participants. My second class was also possible brooches - this time in or nue`.  We did two techniques - horizontal and circular.  Don't hold your breath to see my finished projects however.  I have classes to run of my own - lol.

Had the wonderful surprise of being able to reconnect with one of my Italian Cruise Stitchers - Nancy F.  Here's proof that we were there!

So good seeing her again!

Another past cruise participant just shared this picture from her hotel room overlooking Lake Louise!  Just so happened that our upcoming Canadian Rockies Train/Motor Coach Stitching Adventure will have a very similar view!

If you would like to join our fun from Calgary to Vancouver in April just email Liz our agent at lwolak@vikingtvl.com with travel questions or me at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com for stitching questions. A limited exclusive design will be offered as an optional class on this wonderful journey.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE:  NOVEMBER 15, 2018

Just a reminder that registration is currently in progress for a face-to-face class being hosted by Blue Bonnet Studio.  We are teaching the ever fun and delightful Captain Blackbeak's Wench from JP Needlepoint.

So many interesting techniques to share with you!  Needle felting, thread manipulating, feather creation variation, padding and much more! Check out all the classes and receive registration form over at  https://bluebonnetstudio.com/retreat-classes/. We'd love to have you join us. The Wench is a four-day class - February 17-20, 2019.

Tomorrow is when we post another series of lessons in our Online Mystery Classes. These months just fly by!  If you want to check back in I may try to post again with some sneak peek at what we are doing.

In addition to these monthly lessons I am beginning work on the new upcoming classes.  Did someone say Bunnies??

Or how about the evil Green One?

On the opposite end from this guy is the Lily Wreath - lots of seaside icons in this one.

And don't forget our Butterfly Quickies!

Active registration is going on for all these classes and more.  Just email us for details and more information at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com or scroll down through older posts to get extended information.

So have a great summer weekend - and Stitch with a Smile when you can!

AM I COMING OR AM I GOING?

There are many times that I truly do not know!  There is always so much I want to share with you on the one hand but on the other hand I don't want to wear out my welcome.

Last week I discussed our wonderful Riverboat Stitching Cruises only to learn that our Stitching Down the Danube is full - sold out - narry a bed! Good and bad.  Good that it is a success but bad that we had some that were still trying to work out coming with us.  Lesson learned.  If you think you may be interested in coming with us on some of the adventures try to start making plans early.  We never know how each will be accepted.

We are currently putting together a package for Portugal and Spain.  The Greece trip is still very much alive and well - just may need to consider a different time of year - maybe spring/summer.  Stay posted for more details.  I'm really excited about the Douro River Portugal trip.  Can't wait to see how the package develops.

New classes on the horizon that are being registered are Every Bunny by JP Needlepoint.

The registration for this class indicate that it is going to be very well attended!  I know I'm having fun planning the techniques to share with you all.  Still plenty of time to join us - email me at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com.

The Royal School of Needlework has tutors in KY for the next 2 weeks so just guess what I'll be doing.  I'm very fortunate to be able to attend.  We always learn something if nothing more than a different approach to an old familiar technique.  I'll try to share as best I can.  As in my classes that I teach, I get so caught up in what I am doing that I forget to have pictures to make a post.

I have been very busy preparing stitch guides for an upcoming Embellishment Class in Illinois. Such diverse designs.  There are familiar designers and some that are not known - but all fun.  

We are stitching away on the next set of Online Mystery Class Lessons to share with you in the week or so.  Additionally we are auditioning threads and stitching for upcoming new classes that are scheduled.  Stay turned.

Our local ANG Chapter, Central KY Chapter of ANG, is hosting money raising event by offering this fantastic design created by our very own Karen Barras.

Here is info provided by Karen:

Looking for the perfect July 4th project for the upcoming holiday? Hooray for the Red, White, and Blue! is exactly what you need! This counted canvas work design is approximately 7” square on white 18 count mono canvas. The 15 page professionally written Stitch Guide has excellent instructions, color diagrams, a complete Supply List, and a full page color picture. The chart, to benefit Central KY Chapter, is only $25 (which includes shipping). We are also offering a discount to chapters. If you are interested or have questions, PM Karen Barras with your email address.

Fun project that works up quickly!

Have a safe weekend and remember to Stitch with a Smile!

ON THE ROAD, IN  THE AIR, ON THE WATER

Quick Note:  
Today's the last day to register for the fantastic Winter Cardinal class hosted by the Space Needlers - Seattle. Contact Kay Fite today! Ghosts welcome

One of my special treats is being able to share my needlework with others in different places doing different things.  My favorite venue is the riverboat stitching cruises.  Why you ask?  Well, I have taught on the large ocean liners but I wasn't that fond of the few times that we hit rough seas - get queezie easily.  I don't like looking out and only seeing ocean most of the time. There is always something to see from all sides on the riverboats.  The ocean liners are so large that they seem very impersonal to me.  On our smaller venues we have better opportunities to add new friends that we have met through our passion of needlepoint.  But that's just my personal perspective.

Riverboat cruises, to me, are just like floating hotels.  We don't even know they are moving.  We stop frequently and just step out on the land - be it Italy, Germany, Greece, wherever.  While in Venice last year I loved that after our morning excursions and after our lunch we were able to stitch or have a class.  After dinner, my daughter asked our tour guide about the safety and feasibility of wandering onland and he encouraged her to do so.  She had the best time visiting more little kiosks along the Grand Canal and did not need to wonder far at all (she's a shopper, I am not).  We loved walking on the plaza around the Cathedral and just taking it all in.  No hurry no worry.  I think serene might be a good description of this way of travel. I recall when I had a 'real' job that our vacations tended to wear us out.  We tried to take in so much and ended up going back to work to rest up.  I have never felt that on our riverboat excursions.

The smaller ship affords a better opportunity to get to know fellow stitchers (I mean cruisers) and share our passion in a different setting.  But not only our fellow cruisers.  Our crew went above and beyond to spoil us.  We seldom had to tell them what we might like twice.  Wherever I went on the ship - lounge, upper deck, library, lobby,(stitchers were spread out everywhere when at their leisure)  here they came with my diet beverage.  Or breakfast our drink of choice was in front of us almost before we were seated.  My husband chose to spend most of his down time on the upper deck, stretched out, supposedly reading, but mostly being catered to.  He never had to move if he did not want to - his snacks and his beverages were just a finger lift away.

We never lacked for stitching time.  One day I even opted to bypass the included excursion and just stay onboard and stitch with some others who did the same.  Just because the excursions are included does not mean that we must take them! While we had an optional class with kit, there were some surprise workshops along the way too!  What fun!  We made a souvenir ornament one day that my guests did not expect, and we made a lanyard from beads for our scissors on another time.  These were in addition to the optional class and free for all the registered stitchers. We did not lack for activities that's for sure.


So I am gearing up for our riverboat stitching cruise for this year - Stitching Down the Danube.  As I prepare some of my surprises for my participants it is bringing fond memories of past cruises and I can't wait.  We will be following a similar itinerary as for Italy but this time we will be visiting 4 countries.

We begin in Prague, Czech Republic.  There we will have our first night of class after dinner one evening.  Then we head for our ship and for Germany.  We'll work in another mini-workshop while in that area as well.  This one will likely be the optional Kumihimo bracelet project. After all who can't use another piece of jewelry on their holiday?  We will be able to make and finish this delightful piece and wear it while there.

While cruising through Austria, if I read the itinerary correctly, we will have a full day onboard the ship as we view beautiful scenery along the way. On this day I plan for us to concentrate on the optional class kit of The Danube created by the talented Kate Dickerson just for us.

My initial plan is to briefly discuss the various techniques and areas while we are in Prague that will afford  the opportunity to get some of the less-technical type stitches done by those who choose to do so.  That will leave our f2f time for more intricate things such as ribbon embroidery, beading, and specialty stitches. We will also create our own bargello pattern.

Vienna is very exciting for me!  I had hoped to get to see "The Kiss" and "Judith" by Klimt. Our agent is checking with UniWorld to see if the Belvedere Museum is actually closed on Monday between September and May as stated in our brochure.  The Belvedere's website states it is open. Well surely there is plenty of other references to feed my 'Kiss' viewing desire even if not the read thing.  I'll be where it is - right?   Oh, and there will be another mini-workshop somewhere along the way here too.  Wonder what it could be?  This might also be optional and I'll provide details once I get all the facts and materials together.

And lastly we will go to Budapest - the homeland of my Grandparents.  My mother was Hungarian.  Sadly, we do not know much of the background as our Grandparents were very closed mouth about their history.  'Smith' doesn't tell you too much lol.  And my Grandpa felt that they came to America to be American so very little of the culture was shared with the younger grandchildren. But I'm excited to see it anyway.

So good news bad news . Good news- the ship is full!  Bad news - the ship is full!  If you are considering future excursions with us please try to plan early as we never know how the interest will develop nor how quickly it will sell out.  If you are still hopeful of joining us contact Liz our agent and asking about being added to the wait list.  You never know.  And I think there may be a couple ladies who 'might' be coaxed into sharing.

Just a little stitching share.  We have a very long project called Arctic Parade by Brenda Stofft that were have been working on for 2 years and probably will be working on for 4 years more.  Below is photo of one side - yes there is another side just as large. Did you catch that design size?

Anyway here's a section we shared this weekend to the class. The front side of the blanket is now finished except for the tassels which will be added much lager.

Have a great weekend!

ON THE HORIZON

I briefly mentioned last time that my webmaster has been adding some of my stitch guides to the website.  These are all in the pdf format and are ready for instant download.  So when you have a few minutes grab a cup of coffee and go over and have a look.  Might be something you are looking for.           http://duodesignsinc.com/wpsite/stitch-guides-only

I must confess that since I have been trying to maintain a blog I no longer spend much time working on keeping my website updated.  There are just so many hours and we all pick and choose.  I remember saying one time 'there just isn't enough time' and a professor responded that we all have the same amount of time in a given day - it is how we choose to spend it.  This past month has given us the loss of two very wonderful people that came into our lives and it makes you stop and hesitate a moment to remember what is important and to remember that our given days are a special blessing.

So what's coming up here at Arthur Acres?  Weed pulling that's what.  Oh, that's not what you care about is it?  Sorry.  In July we will be finishing up another Online Mystery Class - the Snow Happy Trio.  Since the summer months are hitting us we are going to play catch up a little and not add another new class until September.  In fact we'll be adding two in September. So many are out with school vacations, summer activities, etc.  so this might relieve a little of the pressure we place upon ourselves.

Next up:  Every Bunny Needs Some Bunny by JP Needlepoint.

We have been having so much fun with Catitudes and Dog Gone Good that we can't help but be excited about this upcoming group of classes. These designs offer a great deal of variety.  There is room to really stitch most of the techniques thus providing the opportunity to maybe learn a stitch new to you and hopefully to experience a new thread along the way. From left to right we have Teacher's Pet - don't those glasses make her look studious.  No tomfoolery here.  Next to her is Mr. Patriotic - while his hat has the red and white stripes, Teacher's Pet is actually the one holding the flag - hmmmm.  Miss Bashful just has that look about her.  I don't know if it is the eyelashes or what but there is something about her that tends to tell me she is a little hesitant but willing.  Little Miss Orange is waiting to have her tummy rubbed or her feet tickled. She is just ready to burst out into giggles.  Miss Flower Power just reminds me of the Hippy days - I know, it must be the headband of flowers but when something gets stuck in my mind I can't flush it out.  Bottoms Up!  Oh my the cuteness of that butt is beyond description.  There lots of other fun things in this canvas as well.  I mentioned the flag, but look at that stylish hat, the flamingo, the purple bird and the carrot. I'd say we have lots to explore on this one and that it will hold its own with the other two.  Registration is now ongoing.  If you would like to join us just email me at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com and we will add you to the notification list.

We have many new followers so it might be a good time to review what Online Mystery Classes involve. What does it mean 'add you to the notification list?'  That means that you must send me your email address as indicated above.  I will add that to the notification list.  There is no obligation involved at this step. The notification list will receive an email approximately one month or 6 weeks before the first class is scheduled.  The notification email will say you have indicated an interest in the class and that invoices for the $150 lesson packet are being processed.  If still interested pay the invoice - if no longer interested ignore the invoice. 

The class is 6 months in length beginning in mid-September.  That means we will post one lesson a month around the middle of the month for six months.  The lesson fee is generally $150 for the 6-lesson packet and is billed through PayPal.  Once the PayPal payment is processed you would receive an invitation to the secret Facebook page.  Sometimes if you did not get an invitation you may need to send me a friend request so that we can manually add you to the classroom.

Classroom: Here is where it all happens.  You will meet other class participants.  You will be introduced to the rules to follow to continue to participate in this group such as no advertising, no promoting shops, no trying to teach the class, and most importantly no negativism.  We are all about encouragement. We all had to learn somewhere along the way, right?  Then a few weeks before the class starts there will be posted a thread/embellishment list so you can go shopping.  When the first lesson is posted you will receive an email notice by the system that someone (me) posted in the FB group.

While we encourage you to please support your LNS we realize that is not always possible.  So, we try to work with a few shops to ensure that they will have what you need that is specific to our thread/embellishment list.  We will list that an optional thread/embellishment kit is available and let you know to contact us if interested.  At that time we ask for permission to share your contact information with the shop(s) that have agreed to work with us on these.  One thing I want to stress here.  Embellishment kits are not separate.  These are merely a little perk that we try to have for our participating students.  The shop cannot offer these as a separate purchase - they are unique to our class - it is the full kit or no.  They are extremely time consuming to gather.  This does not mean that we cannot work around the suggested embellishment - they are just a little something special. The shops do sell threads, etc., that they normally have in their inventory.  So if your stash is missing a couple threads they may be able to help you with that.

Along with the sweet bunnies we will begin the next Reindeer in the Raymond Crawford series.  This one will be Reindeer with the Candles Blanket.

These classes have hopped out of our normal scheduling.  The classes cover 4 intense lessons as opposed to our normal 6.  This is due to a couple of things happening.  First it was stated early on that lesson 1 and 2 would share the same threads and stitches across the board.  We will briefly discuss directional changes, etc., if applicable.  The real meat is in the blankets and adornments of each design.  Although slightly repetitive, each class is a full class because there are many students who are only interested in one particular design and not all of them.  Therefore, they may not be privy to the previous lessons covered and discussions on the other designs.

Scrolling down through older posts you will find mention of additional classes coming up.  I will be posting a new agenda - see current one on the right of this blog - for the year 2019.  We actively take registration for the notification lists months in advance. Some of you even forget that you indicated an interest.  That is not a problem as there is no obligation involved when joining the notification list.

Some include the Quickie Butterfly Series from Burnette and Bradley. Quickie generally means one and done.  Quickie also generally means all-inclusive.  You just send money and you get everything - canvas, threads, embellishments and stitch guide.  For the butterflies we have added an optional item however.  We are having custom made ornament stands made that can be used for these designs should you want to display them that way and as a set.  These will also give you the freedom to slide one out away from the others and place in a special arrangement, etc. if wanted.  I'm excited to see what the painters come up with on these.  More information will be provided as I learn about them.

I'm excited to be adding a new artist to my stitching family - Penny MacLeod.  I have never stitched one of her designs before so I look forward to the upcoming class on Dana - Life of the Party.  From the looks of my notification list so do many of you!

There are a couple of new Raymond Crawford Designs you requested and they made the list:  I call the first one 'The Green One"- lol

This guy gives us the opportunity to play with some fun things on all the ornaments, etc.

The other is the Lily Wreath. Colorful and whimsical - my two favorite criteria.

And another new designer to our classroom is Strictly Christmas.  Oh goodness me!  These two designs have taken over my life.  You are all so excited about them them that I can't wait to start the classes.  Spooky Tags in April 2019

And Santa Tags in June 2019

Scroll down to better see canvas outside the trays.

There is a custom tray that has been created for each of these designs for those who are interest.  Deux Bijoux is painting as fast as they can on these special orders. Make sure you get order in as early as possible - your LNS can take care of that for you or we can assist if needed.  These trays mean you have the opportunity to finish your design yourself and insert - viola - finished in time to display for the appropriate season!

Let us know what new classes you would be interested in and we will be glad to consider adding it to our agenda.  I require students to have a list of interested parties that are committed in order for me to make it worth the effort put into these classes to add them to our family.  Generally, that is not a problem - LOL.  

So hop on the wagon and come along for the ride of fun techniques and wonderful threads!

Until next week . . . Stitch with a Smile.

REGISTRATION!  REGISTRATION!  REGISTRATION

             Beautiful! Beautiful morning here in Central Kentucky!  So Blessed!

        OH! and be sure to checkout our website duodesignsinc.com as our webmaster has added some more stitch guides.

Before I share some of the lessons we covered in our current Online Mystery Classes I am going to highlight a couple of f2f events that are coming up soon.

ANG National Seminar is just around the corner in Washington DC!  I will be teaching two classes this year.  One is called "Can Do Hairdos" and involves creating a sampler of various hairdos.

This class is being held on August  25 - Class No. 12501 -  

The second class is Stitching Solutions where we work on a canvas project you bring to discuss issues you may have or to try and get over some stumbling blocks - 

This class is being held on August 26 - Class No.12601

Registration deadline is June 29.   Would love to have you join me for either or both of these events. To register go to needlepoint.org and under events you'll find Seminar, etc.  

Another upcoming class is the Winter Cardinal hosted by the Space Needlers in Seattle, WA. Scroll down a previous post to print or download the registration form for that class.  You do not need to be a member of the Space Needlers ANG Chapter to participate.  This is a wonderful class!

Class is September 14-15 - come on over!

Registration is currently ongoing for the Blue Bonnet Studio Retreat for February 17-20, 2019
http://bluebonnetstudio.com/about-bbst-retreat in Houston, TX.

We will be teaching the too cute Captain Blackbeak's Wench owl by JP Needlepoint!

Isn't she feisty?  For full details and info on all classes hop over to the pages of Blue Bonnet for lots of eye candy. Of course, I'd love for you to join me in my class but there are lots of fantastic options.

http://bluebonnetstudio.com/about-bbst-retreat

We are also taking registrations for the upcoming train/motor coach stitching adventure through the Canadian Rockies!  If you are not a member of the group Needles 'N Fins Stitching Cruises you need to join right away.  Additionally we are preparing for the Stitching Down the Danube cruise for October 21-31, 2018 and playing with various trip options for 2019.  Email me for details and scroll down further in older posts to get more information regarding brochures. email duodesignsinc@yahoo.com

So it is mid-month and time to share some more lessons in our Online Mystery Classes.

How about Six Geese A Laying from the Christmas Stars series of Raymond Crawford?

We started accessorizing in the Snow Happy Trio from Love You More.

The skirt parts of the Steampunk Witch by Brenda Stofft were highlighted for this next lesson.

We worked on her underskirt, the apron and her overskirt.  Big areas!

And there were others as well but we must move on.

The new Spooky Tags and Santa Tags from Strictly Christmas classes are going great guns!  They will be starting mid April for Spooky and mid-June for Santa 2019.  Be sure to email me at duodesignsinc@yahoo.com if you would like to join us. This are Online Mystery Classes  spread out over 6 months where we post one lesson a month in a secret FB page.  The cost for the 6 lessons is $150.  Also this schedule allows for those that are going to mount in a custom designed tray by Deux Bijoux to be able to have their pieces finished in time for display in the appropriate season!

(tray pictured with optional broom handles)

Cute little ball feet hold the trays off the table.  So fun!

So I've taken enough of your time on this beautiful morning and I would like to get outside for a little while today.  Have a great weekend and let us know if you have any questions.