For most people, Mondays are met like the plague, but I like Mondays, and I LOVE Mondays with mail. I don’t get a lot of mail, so when I do, it’s rather exciting. Today, I received two little packages – one with thread, and the other with needles. What else in the world could be more appropriate, I ask you! Would you like to see?….
New Embroidery Threads to Try!
The first little package contained two types of embroidery thread, Soy Luster and Baroque Silk, from The Pure Palette.
They’re Really Pretty Threads! The two purples are Soy Luster, made from (right!) soy. One is solid and the other variegated. The red is Baroque silk, which is 100% silk. It’s so pretty. The picture can’t do it justice!
I haven’t used either thread yet, but I’m going to, and I’ll write up a comparison so you can see what they’re like lined up to other familiar threads. I’ll also give you the low-down on the threads, where you can find them, and so forth. I can’t wait to try this stuff out!
And New Needles, Too!
Now, the needles are funny. Not ha-ha funny, but peculiar funny. They’re called “Spiral Eye” needles, and they’re made for easy threading, because you don’t have to “thread” it in the same way. I haven’t tried stitching with one of them yet – or even threading them! – but I will, and when I do, I’ll tell you all about them and what I think of this nifty invention. They aren’t calyx needles, in case you’re wondering. Here’s what the Spiral Eye needle looks like:
The needle is actually very small. Close-up photos always make things look much larger than reality! I’m eager to try this and to let you know what it’s like. It looks like it will be a great option for those who have a hard time keeping their needles threaded.
So that was my Monday mail! And both packages have given me plenty to do! I like testing threads and tools…
Coming Up This Week on Needle ‘n Thread
Coming up this week, I’ll continue with information for the very beginning beginners on beginning and ending threads. Actually, I think this kind of information is also good for those of us who have been stitching for a while. I love hearing how other people do the basics, just in case there’s a better way!
I’ve also got a book review coming up on a unique ecclesiastical embroidery book. And speaking of books, I’m going to do a book giveaway on a nice book called Heirloom Embroidery.
I’ve started couching the gold around the outside of my Christmas ornament, so I’m sure I’ll be able to share that with you before the end of this week! I also helped my niece set up a needlebook that she’s going to embroider for her Home Ec class assignment, and it’s kind of cute – bulky, but cute. She’s coming over Wednesday for studio time, so I’ll get photos of it then. (Hopefully, she’s made progress on it!)
I have a gorgeous reader’s embroidery to post for you, too, and who knows what else?
This coming weekend, I’ll be helping out with my family at a local international cultural festival, so I’ll be pre-writing several posts in order to fit in all the weekend events. We’re doing a Welsh exhibit, and cooking for… oh…. 1,500 or so. Should be fun!
Busy week! I’m looking forward to it, and I hope you are, too!
I can’t wait to hear what you think of the spiral eye needle. Does the eye look too small to be useful for crewel embroidery?
By the way, I had fun browsing your website for a long time last night. I came across your ort-catcher-post. I didn’t even realize those things had a name! I may try making something like your couch caddy. Great idea.
Have fun with your new acquisitions!
Hi, Angie –
I haven’t had a chance to use the needle yet, but I do think the eye is probably too small for crewel work. It’s a pretty small eye. But once I try it (this afternoon), I’ll know better!
Glad you like the couch caddy – it was really simple to make. I’m still using it! My orts bag is gathering much thread!!
MC