Just in time to tuck one of these lovely miniature needlepainting kits into your own Christmas stocking – or to give it to your stitching pal, who will undoubtedly think it The Best Gift Ever – I’m giving away one of each of Trish Burr’s miniature kits.
Thanks to Trish, who generously provided the kits for a give-away, you have the opportunity today to win either the Attic Pansies kit (above) or…
… the Bluebirds & Daisies miniature kit.
These are the actual kits that Trish sells. The come with the instructional booklet, the pre-printed fabric, backing fabric, and needles. There’s a thread chart in the instructional booklet for the required threads, with conversion between DMC and Anchor, so you can choose which threads you want to use.
Incidentally, the miniature kits won’t be available again for purchase until after the New Year (she sold out after my review – sorry, Trish!), so this is your only opportunity to get a kit before Christmas!
(However, if you’re eager to stitch one of these delightful minis right away, you can get a digital version now – Trish has made the miniatures available for digital download in her Etsy shop, in response to the popular demand for them. Thanks, Trish!)
Give-Away Guidelines
If you’d like to join in for the give-away, it’s really, really simple! Please follow these guidelines:
1. Leave your comment below, at the end of this article, here on the website. Comments received via e-mail or left on other articles are not eligible.
2. In your comment, answer the following question:
What do you prefer to be going on around you while you’re embroidering? i.e. do you watch TV, listen to music, listen to audiobooks, embroider around friends or family while chatting, do you prefer silence, do you like to be outside where you can see and hear the wonders of the natural world around you, or … ?
3. Please make sure you leave a recognizable name either in the “name” line of the comment form or within the comment box.
4. Leave your comment by Wednesday, December 12, 5:00 my time (Kansas, USA), and the winners will be announced some time that morning! This Give-Away is Closed – but keep an eye open for other great Trish Burr kit give-aways in the future!
See? Simple dimple!
I’m looking forward to reading your answers to my question above – it’s one of the best aspects of a give-away! So, comment away!
Note: Unless you want all of the comments for the give-away filling your inbox, do not tick the “follow-up comments” box at the end of the comment form. Make sure it is left unchecked, or you will end up with many e-mails in your inbox!
Mary: I love to stitch to all of the things you listed EXCEPT have the TV on – good music, audio books, friends who are also stitching, friends who are talking or doing other things that don’t require me to look up, etc. Probably my all time favorite stitching scenario would be stitching to an endless stream of NPR’s “Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me,” especially when they have Paula Poundstone and Roy Blount, Jr. on the show.
ohhhh! those little birds….
Answering your question : it depends. Normally I embroider listening music on radio or TV not too loudly; if the weather allows i like to be outside; with family or friends I do always easy things – too distractions for complex projects…
Thanks, Mary, for another beautiful giveaway and Thanks to Trish Burr as well!
Wishing both of you a Merry Christmas
I most enjoy stitching in the presence of my dear long-time friend Cynthia. She also stitches, and can appreciate the project I’m working on as well as sharing hers. She taught me the finer points of counted cross-stitch and I started her off on quilting, and so we enjoy each others’ projects as much as our own.
But the real joy comes in the conversation that is sewn into a piece when I have sat with my old friend. That needlework becomes the remembrance of a place, a time, and most of all, a friendship that has remained through graduate school, children, parents, weddings and funerals, relationships, voyages, and stories of our midwifery experiences. Tears and laughter, trust and mutual respect are woven through every stitch, and are preserved in my memory at the sight of the stitching.
These kits are adorable. I would be honored to win one. I do my embroidering several ways….while my husband watches TV, in silence at times, while camping outdoors, while sitting in my yard on a lovely day. My favorite time is in the evening…..
Thanks for this lovely giveaway.
I’d love to have those little birdies! I would stitch while watching Downton Abbey with my neighbor. But if no Downton Abbey is on, I would stitch while watching something else.
I am usually watching TV when I embroider, but I get more engrossed in my work and then realize I missed all of the punch lines in the show. Trish Burr’s work is amazing! I hope to get more like her-or you, Mary. Thanks for all you do.
With 3 active kids and constant busyness, I prefer peace and quiet when needleworking. It is a great time to think and reflect.
Beautiful. I love Trish’s embroidery kits and wish I could afford one. I love all crewl designs but her’s look so real.
I usually turn on a show that i’ve seen before, something I enjoy but can zone out to. Nothing matchs the relaxation you get from embroidering.
Hi Mary,
I listen to audiobooks whenever I embroider, Agatha Christie more often. She never fails to keep me happy. I adapt a lot of patterns on the garments I wear – we wear kurtas & dupattas (long broad stoles ).I’m from India
Thanks for the daily updates – I wait for them eagerly.
Since I am somewhat hearing impaired, I don’t usually have background noises at any time. I tend to curl up with my stitching and fill the evening. I take out my hearing aids and enjoy the silence. I generally am in the same room with my husband who will have the TV going. Lots of programs are pretty hilarious when the dialog is based on quick glances as I look up from a chart.
There seems to be only two places/times that I am able to get enough time to sit and stitch – when I’m home at night watching tv, and occasionally at an outside event on a weekend afternoon (like a concert or a tournament, since I attend medieval reenactment events).
I truly wish I had more occasion to sit and stitch, as I have not yet progressed past the beginner stage of needlepainting and truly love it! Thank you for your wonderful website! I’ve learned so much here and you’ve been the major inspiration for my stitching.
I “listen” to the TV while I am stitching or I visit with friends and/or family. I stitch almost every evening and many times during the day. Could you say I am addicted? I would love to have a Trish Burr piece to stitch. Her work is beautiful!!!
I like peace and quiet the best, just sitting in my sewing room. Except for the days when NCIS re-runs are on…then, I’m listening to Gibbs. Hugs!
Kathy
I embroidery when watching tv or visiting with friends.
I just recently discovered you wedsite and love it! Boy, do I have a lot to learn and practice! thank you for sharing your talent.
Yes to all of the above, but my I prefer to listen to a book when I stitch. That seems less distracting than a movie or TV. I am lucky enough to get together with friends almost every week to stitch, and that is always lots of fun, but we never seem to get quite as much work done as we hope to – I wonder why? I love Trish’s work and these kits are amazing. Thank you for the opportunity to win one.
My favorite way to embroider is sitting on my sofe with my rasther large cat curled at my side. He alwyas seems to want to “see” what I am doing, or is it really he expects some extra attention when I change thread colors??
I usually sit in the living room so the tv is on and my family is in there also. When I work in my bedroom aka ‘sewing room’ it is quiet unless my cats are ‘visiting’ me and helping.
Thanks for the opportunity! I’m mostly limited to stitching in the evening, and I love to have the TV on. I find the combination of TV and stitching to be most relaxing, and generally avoid fast-paced programs such as action films, which would be hard to follow while stitching 🙂
T tend to have TV on because Hub is watching it, sometimes I plug head phones into lappy and listen to music but only if I don’t like what Hub’s watching. I hope I win I love those kits so sweet.
Hugs SuzyRed
OMG – I’ve been waiting for this!!! I love those little bluebirds and could just hug them! I want to do that feathery looking stitch that makes them look so fluffy! (i know it’s just a straight long and short stitch, but I’ve never come up with anything fluffy!) 🙂
Ok, to answer your question, I have to say I like to watch TV – a good movie or my favorite shows I have recorded, my own marathon – if the embroidery is something I’m familiar with and know how to do. If it’s something new I’m learning – total silence. TOTAL!! 🙂
Thank you for the giveaway – it’s an awesome one. Merry Christmas 🙂
I like to stitch while my husband is watching football. I enjoy watching football too, but I can’t JUST sit and watch football; I’ve got to have busy hands!
I’d love to have either of these two beautiful kits. I have one of Trish Burr’s books, but have yet to try needle painting. The kit might be just the kick start I need.
I have different projects for different environments. If I’m stitching with a group, I need something simple. It’s too easy to be distracted with conversation. For concentrating, I prefer music, but if I’m improvising, (CQ) audio books are nice. This time of year my favorite spot is in front of the fire with a cup of tea by my side. In summer I move out to the arbor with some lemonade. Just let me stitch!
Nancy in Newport
My most favorite stitching is when I’m stitching with my family of sisters. 2 sisters 1 DD and 1 DIL. Other than that I prefer to “listen” to TV or music. It is soothing to me with needle in hand and fibers going through fabric. Mental therapy when I was a working gal, LOL. Would love to win a mimlniature of Trish Burrs.
Hmm…. no silence for me. I like having things going on around me. That’s probably why I’ve stitched everywhere from ice rinks to embassy meetings. My usual stitching is with a video or podcast on and with my husband sitting next to me. I get a lot done that way.
I love listening to music – mainly folk or movie music – while I work. I usually work in our home office and the computer has a large selection of our favorite pieces
Trish’s kits and designs are lovely! I like to stitch in quiet after a busy day. I have my favorite area and, Bailey (my sit ‘n sew yorkie puppy) snuggles up next to me while curled on his blanket. it is so relaxing to hear the sound of the needle and a snoozing puppy.
I just found your site last week and am loving it. I do most of my stitching at night in our great room with my husband while he watches t.v., and I too find myself missing most of the shows! Does keep my hand out of the cookie jar! I also do get together once a month with a group of friends to do hand crafting of whatever nature, where we share our knowledge and teach each other new techniques
Thank you for this lovely offer. I generally have television going as I stitch. However, I cannot honestly say that I watch tv; rather, I half-listen. Since I am somewhat elderly and live alone, just having sound in the background is, for me, a companionable thing. But were you to ask me what I heard, I should probably not be able to answer; I am generally so engrossed in stitching that that becomes my sole focus.
Oh, those little birds have my name all over them! Ihope they find their to me.
When my boys left home, I converted the bonus room to my studio. My husband calls it The Nest. It is a large room and used to be spacious, but I soon managed to stuff it full of projects and supplies. I have the ability to listen to music up there, but plying my fiber arts is so deliciously soul-feeding, I usually enjoy the process in silence.
What a marvelous giveaway! These kits are gorgeous.
I embroider while watching TV at night, but I also take my embroidery with me when having coffee with my mom, and to the family get-togethers during football season. Any time the mind is engaged but the hands can be busy. 🙂
I find music or the background chatter of tv or radio a distraction when embroidering. The meditative experience of moving the needle and thread through fabric is broken by lots of noise. But if my family is sitting with me and talking that can be enjoyable. It all depends on whether they are talking or arguing!
I do all my handwork in the evening while watching tv OR if we go on a trip in the car!
Hi Mary and Trish,
Thank you for the lovely offer! I prefer to do embroidery projects while I listen to classical music either on tapes or on the classical music channel on the radio without all the commercial interruptions. If the weather is fine, I enjoy doing embroidery in the garden or on the patio.
Best wishes,
Maureen
While embroidering I like to sit by a large window in our bedroom. It looks out over some woods and I love watching whatever woodland critters that happen by. If it’s not too hot I love to open the windows and listen to the wind. It always seems so relaxing and rejuvenating!
Mary–thanks for offering Trish’s mini kits. By the time we organized a group order, her site was sold out. For me, stitching conditions need to match the project! TV, chatting with friends etc. is great background for repetitive stuff. For more serious projects, especially using metals or metallics, soothing classical music is a must. Stitching outside doesn’t cut it–too many creepy crawlies!
I like to listen to music while I stitch, but it has to be music without words: otherwise I start singing along and forget to count!
When I sit down to embroider I always make sure I have a fresh pot of coffee brewing and pop in a movie like Little Women, Pride and Prejudice, Doris Day or something else entertaining. Also, I always make sure the cat has just been fed or I’ll be jumping up again 🙂
I love all of Trish Burr’s work (who wouldn’t?) and especially the little birds! She is so talented! Thanks for yet another chance at a giveaway and have a Merry Christmas!
Hi Mary-
My favorite would be with friends chatting & listening to soft music in the back ground. Mostly though, I stitch listening to music or with the tv on.
Thank you Mary and Trish!
Jean B
Greensboro NC
My favourite way to stitch is with my stitching group The FETE ladies. Obvoiusly we all have other lives do when I am at home I love to stitch in my kitchen with the radio on or listening to music. At this time of year it is a particular pleasure to listen to Christmans music while I stitch.
Meery Christmas
Well, Mary – it took 51 years for me to truely appreciate SILENCE. I remember when I was growing up that my mother was always begging for it and I never understood why. With three pre-teen aged children, a groucy husband, a clingy (and yappy) little dog and I, too, now crave silence. I love to sit in the evenings or early in the morning and stitch in solitude. It centers me – it restoresth the sole.
Mary Ann
This is an easy one – the very best way to stitch is in the quiet of my living room, with a daylight light on in the evening, or in the garden in the summer, with a sleeping cat beside me. My two cats snore a little (in a nice way) and this makes me smile. If they are awake and purring that is great too.
My second favourite way to stitch is in the study whilst my husband is playing the piano. I don’t like the TV or really the radio though – they distract me.
I like stitching whilst chatting to friends, but it has to be an easy project ot I go wrong all the time.
I love Trish’s kits – I have been learning needle painting from her books this summer and hope to progress from beginners projects soon(ish).
Thank you Mary for this opportunity for someone to win on the kits – how marvellous.
The review you wrote was very enticing.
I’ve had a hearing loss since I was a little girl so that hearing/listening for me is work! How wonderful it is that embroidery is something I can enjoy in silence. Embroidering itself is so pleasurable; being able to absolutely relax and not work to hear while doing it is just the best. Hours go by in perfect contentment when I don’t have to wear hearing aids. Wonderful.
Happy Holidays Mary!
Thank you for this amazing give-away! My most favorite stitching “companion” is wonderful music. It enables me to concentrate on the stitching- most important for me- as well as to relax and have the experience pleasurable.
I hope you have a wonderful holiday season and that the New Year brings you good health and happiness! Your work and your sharing continues to be a blessing !
Peg in NJ
What adorable kits. I usually watch TV… either a show or pop in a DVD.
I like to surround myself with the sounds of silence. Concentrating on each stich is a meditation for me.
Family, friends and chatter is the background music I prefer most, but there are times I like (ok, need) silence and enjoy being alone in my head with my stitches. Outside stitching is really nice when the weather permits, and that’s usually while on vacation!
When the TV is on, it will be a show I don’t have to follow closely — I’m not very good at dividing my attention.
Those birds, they are so cute! And the size of these projects is just right for evenings, in the living room, when everyone is home and telling about their day.
That’s my favorite while sttitching, listening to everyone else talking.
Waou!!!what lovely birds & what generosity! I prefer listen classic music when I’m stitching!Foundest thoughts & I cross my fingers!!!
For me, I love the calm quiet of the classical music playing in the background as I stitch. This music seems to calm my soul and helps me relax as I sew.
Being new to hand embroidery work I find I tend to concentrate very hard on stitches sometimes holding my breath. With the music I find myself humming along with the music thereby taking the pressure off my stitches.
I’ve just purchased Trish Burr’s DVD “The Long and Short of It – A Needle Painting Workshop” so I can learn to needle paint like an expert.
I would love to win Trish Burr’s Miniature Embroidery Kit so I can work on the project after working through my workshop lessons.
Eva McCormack
I am so fortunate to have a spare bedroom for a small studio. I have a table set up with my Dazor mag light in front of a south-facing palladium window, and with my stash all around me and my stereo and my TV in there, I can stitch in complete comfort and pleasure, winter or summer.
I usually stitch while “watching” tv. But I really enjoy stitching with friends best of all!
I can and do embroider almost anywhere. I seem to be in my own world when I am stitching. Generally I can keep up with either a conversation or music or television, but my preferred way to stitch is in silence. Stitching is a very meditative art to me. I work out a lot of life’s tangles while I stitch. It is actually a form of prayer for me. I love to be outdoors with my stitching but get very distracted by the beauty of the outdoors when out there.
I have always loved miniatures and have been doing a number of small quilts are the present time. I also love small embroidery pieces. Just finished a Thanksgiving quilt with 16 small squares that are stitched and then put into a quilt. I would love to have a miniature piece by Trish Burr. Thank you for all of your wonderful give-aways, Mary. Lynn Foster, MI
I knew right away what I like to have going on while I embroider. Life. At night I embroider while my husband watches TV. In the day time it depends if I want music or a movie or silence while I’m embroidering. As long as I’ve got a needle and thread (floss) or any other fiber in my hand I’m happy. I will also take my stitching to my husband’s store and stitch in the lobby. I like to be able to visit with his customers while they wait to get their cars done.
Thank you for the chance to win these little beauties!!
Melissa Bird
Hi Mary! I think these kits are amazingly cute! My favorite way to stitch is while watching TV or a movie however it can’t be one of my favorite movies as I tend to spend more time paying attention to my stitching than watching!
Oh I would love to stitch one of these kits. I have been doing handwork for over 40 years. It is my favorite form of art. When I stitch alone, I love to listen to my favorite soft music in the background. I also love to stitch with a group of ladies all interested in handwork. We learn so much from each other.
Thank you for entering me in this give-away contest. Merry Christmas and best of stitches in the coming new year.
Gloria
I definitely need something going on, whether it’s friends stitching/knitting/beading, or tv, or music, or podcasts (a recent favorite is Spark from CBC, they often talk about art and technology together), or audiobooks (a recent addition to my distraction list). If I go without, I find the street noises too annoying, and if I have a white noise generator going to block those out, I spend too much time worrying about the other things I should be doing, and I don’t enjoy the stitching experience. I need something audible that engages the thinking part of my brain just enough to turn the worry off.
Hi,
There are times I listen to music and there are times that I have the TV on. I really feel more inspired when the music is on. I feel so lucky when I do that. We are all blessed to have such a passion for something. Many people are bored( can you imagine). If I live to be 100 I will never be able to stitch all that I hope to. I would love to add a Trisha Burr kit to my to do list, I admire her talent and would love to learn more about needle painting.
Happy holiday ,
Cathie Bridwell
Life goes on around my when I embroider, even though I’m in my own little world. I listen to an audio book or music, something to keep my body and mind relaxed and allow the stitches to paint beautiful things.
TV in the background for me, but I’ve been wanted to get into a good audiobook for a while now.
My husband is also my best friend, so I like to stitch when we are together after he gets home from work and after supper. Usually this is while watching TV together, but many times it is just while we are talking over the day. Thank you.
HI, Mary…I yell too much at sporting events so I’ve got to taking my stitching to baseball, basketball and football games. It’s a good way to use the “commercial” break times during live games…at home, I love to “listen-watch” movies while I stitch. My demeanor must be comforting at those stitching times as my kitty loves to jump on my lap. So, full heart, full mind and full lap!
Thanks for sharing YOUR stitching life w/all of us…
If DH isn’t home, I quite often just stitch in silence or listen to music or an audio book. If he is home usually the tv is on but I tend to tune it out as just background noise.
I enjoy embroidering while watching cooking and gardening shows. They help give me inspiration on what I should make and the color combinations I should use.
What a great giveaway!
Due to some stresses in my life I have not been spending time doing needlework but I am well aware that I should be doing something for myself and something like the bluebird project could get me going again. When I stitch, I prefer to sit in a cozy chair or corner of the couch, listen to music and maybe even have my cat cozied up next to me.
Thanks Mary, for your fabulous daily dose of hope.
Mary it doesn’t matter where I stitch or what’s going on around me. I go so far in I usually don’t know much of what’s happening. A really nice time is having the house quiet, the fire on, and my dog lying next to my chair. Trish Burr has done a lot for embroidery hasn’t she – so do you.
Hi Mary, When I try to meditate I have to fight myself not to fall sleep. Embroidering liberates my mind and keep me awake. It is way to connect beauty, handskills, and soul. You Mary, have a wonderful Christmas and thanks for all this knowledge you share with us during 2012.
I like to “listen” to the TV while embroidering AND with a group of friends.
These kits are lovely. How I would love to win. I enjoy needlework anywhere and whatever is going on around me. My favorite time is when my grandchildren are playing all around me and I have music playing in the background. Thank you for hosting this giveaway.
Oh my – those are both so beautiful! The ONLY thing I don’t like when I’m doing embroidery is silence! I embroider at Embroiderers’ Guild workshops with chat going on around me, at home in front of the telly, with my husband reading to me, listening to audio books or listening to music. If I’m doing something really tricky then either music or TV I don’t care about is the preference, but if it’s something simpler then probably an audio book or hubby reading is first choice.
I like stitching with friends. I do also stitch with the TV on just as background noise. I don’t like to stitch with music on, because it distracts me too much. I guess friends distract me too, but that is a welcome sort of distraction. 🙂
Hi Mary- embroidering is such a relaxing thing for me, that most of the time it is enough to sit with crossed legs cuddled in my armchair and work in silence. If it is some complete linear work, where I have not to think about counting or colours, like my (long) renaissance-silver-border, I sometimes like to listen to classical music or to an audio-book. Never TV- (I simply don’t have one…)
As always you offer a very lovely give-away! Thank you for doing this and thank you for your blog- it’s an every-day joy to look and read!! Merry Christmas and cheers!
I want those birds! They’re just so cute! Thanks for this great give-away.
As to your question, I mostly stitch with the TV going, but also during traveling, which I do a lot of. It’s nice sitting in a train, listening to my Ipod and getting on with my embroidery or needlework project! Sometimes I stitch while sitting and chatting with friends, who unfortunately don’t do anything needle-related themselves.
Thanks again, I so hope that this time I will be the lucky one…
Stitching for 45 years and it does not matter what is going on around me….I leave this planet when I am stitching. I loose track of time and all my troubles. Needless to say supper has been late a few times.
Thanks for the wonderful giveaway. I love listening to music while I am stitching….but it ends up usually being conversations with my kids or the TV as I would much rather be in the same room as the family.
Love those miniatures!!
My embroidery is usually done in silence -when I am all alone and have time to contemplate. Once in a while a little bit of music and a wee bit of T.V also peeps in. But friends?? -No,No- I can never stitch if friends are around, I would be chatting and not stitching at all.
Love,
Deepa
So many have commented how cute the birds are! I agree, but those flowers look about as real as could be! What a talented lady Trish is. I’m also surprised that only one comment has mentioned the car. We live in “the middle of nowhere” as my 16 yr old daughter likes to lament. So we do a lot of driving and if my husband is driving and it’s not too dark out, I’m working on handwork. I can talk to hubby or the kids, listen to the radio, and I’m still being productive. Thanks for your blog, Mary. The world would have a little less color in it w/o you and your work! Blessings,
These birds are soooo cute….
I usually stitch while watching TV or while riding in the car on long trips. I have even braved the sand at the beach and the glare of the sun…
Hi Mary, It depends on the time of day. During the the day I tend to listen to the radio and at night while I am watching TV. I have to do something with my hands otherwise I feel it is time wasted 🙂 Regards Elza Bester xxx
Oh! to have one of those kits would be wonderful. My favorite thing to do when I get ready to embroider is to listen to music, usually something soothing. If I do happen to turn on the television it will be something I can tune out after the first few minutes, or else I will find myself setting down the embroidery work and watching the television. Thanks to both of you and have a happy and safe holiday season.
I’ve been spending days on your website reviewing the stitches and admiring your work. These miniature kits are absolutely wonderful, she is so talented and thanks for the opportunity to give myself a present. have a good one
I listen to music or audio books. I love these minatures. Thanks for the chance to win. Neena
I just love those little bluebirds!!!
I usually stitch while hubby watches TV. I’m not good at sitting still, lol.
Thanks so much for the giveaway!
Dear Mary…I have been the prodical daughter that has come back to hand embrodiery. I forgot the satisifaction I found in embrodiery. In the past, I worked mostly on sampler reproductions, but I am more ambitous with the many silk threads and fabrics now available. I always admired Trish’s work. Many times, I had I needed to zoom in on her work, thinking it was a painting. I enjoy and look forward to your daily newsletter. Thank you and continue the good work! P.S. I don’t have a website, therefore leaving it blank.
Mary, I prefer to embroidery outside in natural light. My eyes are getting old! Lol. But living in Nebraska, the weather is a factor, so then I prefer to have other noise in the background when I am inside. Most of the time it’s music. THe TV is too distracting. If I am embroidering Christmas items, I am definitely playing Christmas music. Otherwise it’s my nature noise :). or classicals. So, Mary once again thanks for the give a way, I enjoy following your blog. Your work is so beautiful and inspiring, and your reviews…well they are so well written and photographed that I can make informed decision. Just like with Trisha Burr kits, I reeeealy like both of them! So winning either one would be ok with me!!! :). Have a nice weekend. Nebraska is suppose to get snow! Ugh!
Mary, if I’m stitching during the day, I’d love to be outside in mother Nature listening to all the critters around me, but, where I live, there are too many bugs. So I sit in the sunroom, sometimes with music and stitch. In the evenings, I may also stitch in front of the tv, but I’m usually just keeping DH company. (If it’s a good movie, not much stitching gets done lol) When my friend Shirl comes to visit, I them have the fun of ‘stitching and b!tching’ with her, which is so much fun.
I would love to win one of Trish’s miniatures! Thank you for the opportunity.
When I finally get the time to stitch I need silence. Any noise is a distraction from what I love to do the most. Putting down color, concentrating on stitches, all the minor decisions involved get sidelined if I have to talk or attend to dogs or even change a CD. I guess I love the total immersion so only dead silence will do.
Love the Trisha Burr kits. Normally invent my own patterns, but those birds are too cute!
Actually, this question isn’t so easy. Depends on the day and the “atmosphere.” Today, for example, it’s nice to visit with my Mom and be doing a little handwork. On a cold winter day, it’s nice to sit by the fire with a cup of tea, work on some ebroidery and reflect. If I’m working on something pretty easy, then the TV or a movie is the way to go. But what’s really fun is getting together with a small group of friends to talk and stitch together. If they are knitters or quilters, that doesn’t really matter, but it’s especially nice if they are all embroiders. Then good ideas get traded and you learn a few things. The off-subject talk can get lively, too!
I prefer sttiching with noise-usually History of national Geograpic ont he TV. For beading I like to be with friends. AliceRae
I prefer silence so I can concentrate on my work. I “undo” less often and consequently the whole project is completed more rapidly. Either one of Trish Burr’s minis would make a wonderful Christmas gift for me but I’ll admit that I am intimidated by the little bird. I could probably not give it the fluffy look since I am a beginner in thread painting. But I am willing to give it a try………..
Have a wonderful Christmas.
Sweet, sweet embroideries. I like to embroider in the summer sitting by Lake Superior. The wonderful light, quiet solitude, and a beautiful embroidery is a little slice of heaven.
Oh, either kit would be a delight. Thank you and Trish for this great give-away. To answer your question, sometimes I stitch very early in the morning before everyone is up. I enjoy that time of calm and silence. It gives me a time to think and quiets my thoughts. Other times, I set up my computer and stitch while watching TV shows I have missed, like The Good Wife, The Midwife or Downton Abbey on PBS.
I got back into embroider when I came across your blog. I enjoyed watching how, I think it was a minister robe come together. You do such beautiful work!! I like to embroider while I’m watching TV. Keeps my hands busy, instead of eating. Lot less calories!! Thanks for sharing.
I like to embroider while watching TV or sitting with my family. Like to have activity going on around me!
Mary,
I love Trish Burr’s miniature needlepainting kits. They are so cute, and would be so much fun to stitch. I hope I win one.
Stitching in front of the TV is probably the place that I mostly stitch. I sometimes stitch at the table in the kitchen or dining room also. I like to sit on my front porch in the summer if I have a small piece that I am doing on an embroidery hoop. If my husband is home TV will be on or if not I prefer to listen to music. If I am doing an easy piece I love conversation while stitching, if it is a complicated piece I like to have it quiet.
I love reading your blog. Your enthusiasm and talent keep me in awe. I love to listen to audiobooks when I sew. I download them from my local library to my MP3 or iphone and I’m ready for the next project. I listen to all types of genres and really recommend the website: fantasticfiction.co.uk for list of authors, their books & series and also what books and authors they are reading and recommend!
Thanks for spreading the art and beauty of embroidery!
My favourite spot for embroidery is my sofa, with everything I need to hand, where I can sit in silence looking out at my garden which is often visited by blue tits and full of flowers. It is a form of meditation for me.
So I would love to have one of these kits to embroider while watching the garden scenery.
Hi Mary, I so enjoy embroidering while listening to books on tape, TV, music, talking with friends while we work together….it’s quiet, relaxing time that’s productive! I’m hoping, if I win, to break a life-long trend of bad luck….the last time I won anything I was 14 yrs. old…I’m now 63. I think those little birds would love to come to VT! Thanks, Mary!! I absolutely LOVE your web site and have learned so much!!!
Actually I do not care what’s going around. I’m in my embroidery smelling, touching, enjoying colors. Life around just dissapares.
I enjoy stitching while “listening” to TV, talking with my husband or complete silence. Frankly, I just enjoy stitching in most any situation. I really love Trish Burr’s patterns. I learned to thread paint from one of her books. I would love to have one of her kits.
My favorite places to stitch are with my follow stitchers at stitch-in. I attend about one to two a week. During the summer I love being out and about stitching in public, as I love to share my love of stitching with the public. on those evenings when I am at home you will find me stitching away in front of the TV (for noise) with family coming and going. They are always wondering what I am stitching next. Oh yes I also stitch during my lunch time at work. Love those hour lunches. yours truly Ronda
I love to listen/watch movies while working on my hand embroidery. I enjoy doing this alone. Watching movies with family and embroidering at the same time causes my work to suffer. Besides, doing it alone becomes part of my priceless me time!
Thank you for this offer! Trish’s work is amazing. I watch TV while stitching because it gives my eyes a chance to change focus . . . they are slow to adjust now-a-days.
I used to do my handwork while watching my sons play or practice basketball and football but now that they are older I do my handwork while sitting with my husband watching TV. It amazes my how my handwork has helped me with the “empty nest” symptons!
Thank you Mary and Trish for the wonderful opportunity to win such a beautiful gift! I enjoy stitching while watching TV, listening to music or chatting. I often sit in front of the window and watch the birds at the feeders also, from the little chickadees to the big pileated woodpeckers. I find it relaxing and enjoyable.
I love the birdies! I like to watch tv while I do hand work 🙂
Mary;I love needlework,enjoy doing all types of embroidery.The articles of Trish Burr are very educating.Even a lay man can follow the instructions and complete the project.Yes coming to the point I enjoy the music when i am dong my needle work.I also exchange my views with my friends who are into this hobby and try to know new things .I am entirely in a different world with music and my project.I devote most of the time to my project once I start.I am a fan of TRISH BURR.
Mary:
In all of your giveaways this one <attic pansies) is my very favorite. I have recently completed a pansy pattern from Trish and loved it. My answer is that I love to embroidery while listening to classical music through my computer. Also I love to put on one of my collection of outdated LP records of various operas I collected before CDs became available.
Thank you, Mary
Her thread painting is gorgeous . I have looked at her designs online and her books . I am really wanting to try this art form and learn more about thread painting.
I love to stitch and do it most anywhere, anytime I can sit down for a few minutes. My favorite place and time is in the family room with my hubby in his easy chair watching TV and my dog curled up beside me. This is my haven, with love and support surrounding me. However, when I have had a difficult day at work, I like to stitch where it is quiet and I can relax and let go of the tough stuff.
Morning Mary,
I have a small nook set up in my living room. So I have the TV on and most times my kids are there, too. I don’t necessarily “watch” the TV, but I do listen to it and the kids and I usually carry on several conversations while I’m stitching. The get upset with me sometimes because I “tune” them out when I’m counting and then have to ask them to repeat what they said. They think I’m loosing my mind. I just laugh because all of us stitchers know how to tune things out. 🙂
Thanks for the opportunity to win one of Trish’s kits. I’ve admired her work for a long time.
Kelly
What a lovely giveaway! I like to either listen to the radio (not music; Radio 4 in the UK which has many interesting programs, plays, The Archers) or I have the TV on not too loud, or i listen to a podcast or audio book. I prefer to sew indoors usually, although in the summer I might go out to our beach hut (glorified shed) in the garden and sew there.
Thanks
Jo
I stitch or crochet anytime I have to sit still for a bit. Riding in the car, waiting for an appointment, or sitting on the front porch or in front of the tv (if it’s too cold to sit on the porch!) I’ve found that if I have something to work on in my hands, then my hands aren’t putting food in my mouth!! And it also gives me a lovely little stockpile of gifts for whenever I need something – handy since we live in a very rural area and stores are not close by. Both of these patterns are beautiful!!
Fun question! In the summer I like to sit out on the patio and work. In the winter, the living room will have to do. In either case, I like to listen to podcasts while I work. It’s nice to catch up on news and listen to stories while keeping my hands busy.
I am glad to just sit and get my needle going..I love listening to a good book or watching a bit of tv in between stitches too and also find that music can also be a lovely accompaniment to the work too! The little birds you have offered are just too sweet thank-you for the opportunity!
Lovely kits! I would love to work on one of them while listening to audiobooks or the radio. Thanks!
If I’m alone, I always have music playing. I have picked up lyrics I never knew before from many old songs based on the combination of today’s better sound equipment and my subconscious picking them up! I also stitch when my husband is watching TV. He’s not very good at names, so I am always telling him the names of characters in shows I don’t even watch!
Every time I see one of Trish’s designs, I am sorely tempted to try one, even though all my previous attempts at non-counted work have been truly disastrous! I wouldn’t expect to be
nearly as good as she is after only one attempt at needlepainting, but I would love to try.
These Kits are GORGEOUS! I love Trish’s work! I generally stitch while watching TV, crime dramas, cooking shows, science or history programs… but I really enjoy stitching with friends. In January I’m going to a stitching retreat, a long weekend of nothing but stitching on whatever I want. One of these Trish Burr kits would be a perfect project for that weekend!
Thank you for the opportunity to win one of these beautiful little kits! In answer to your question, all of the above! When I have a stitching project in progress, it doesn’t matter where I am or what is going on around me, that project MUST be with me. I even take projects in the car on longer rides (as long as the road isn’t too bumpy!) Once I took a crochet project with me on a trip to Canada, so that became part of the excitement of giving the gift…that it had been to Canada and back. Well, I hope I win! Thank you for your website, it is awesome!
Hello Trish.
Wat een leuke give aways.
Als ik borduur, dan luister ik het liefst naar rustige muziek op de achtergrond.
Ik vind het dan heerlijk om te borduren het liefst overdag.
Ik kijk elke dag naar je website.
Vriendelijke borduurgroet,
Maria Mulder
Trish’s kits are amazing and these miniatures are absolute treasures!
My favorite stitching place is in the lounge, sitting next to my hubby,keeping him company whilst he enjoy’s his favorite hobby – watching sport on TV! Two happy old codgers!
Dear Mary
The thing I like best when I’m embroidering is absolute peace and quiet. It helps me put niggling worries in perspective and chills me completely out.
Oh those little birds are adorable! They are definitely going on my wish list! When I stitch or craft I like to listen to music, a talk show or listen to nothing at all. It all depends on how involved I need to be. Thank you, Mary, for your wonderful website and for having this lovely giveaway. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Anything at all can be going on around me while I am stitching, I don’t care I will still stitch. Friends, family, and colleagues all expect that I have something with me to stitch wherever I am, but my ideal place is at home, in my conservatory, on a lovely sunny day (I live in England so not too many of those to be had!), with doors and windows open, so that I can hear the birds singing, see the flowers, and stitch by the best light ever invented!
I have wanted to learn needle painting for some time and hope that this will be my opportunity to begin. Thank you for making this available!
Mary,
For me it all depends on what kind of embroidery I am doing. If it is counted and I am really concentrating on getting things in the right place then quiet or music are ideal, but for anything else then I am not fussy – I just like to stitch!
Hi Mary. If I’m at home, I stitch in front of the TV or have music playing. Wednesday nights I’m with friends stitching. During the warmer months, I like to stitch outside either on the porch or at the beach (not on the sand) as the water has a very soothing effect and I love the natural light. Thanks for the give-away.
Cynthia
Trish Burr’s embroidery is one of my favorites. She gives each piece an almost 3-D effect.
In a perfect world I’d be sitting on a very comfortable chair near a big picture window looking out at beautiful trees & mountains in the distance and listening to all kinds of music. In reality, I sit here in KS in front of the TV on a not-so-comfy couch with g’kids running around & playing in the background – such is life!
Mary,
I like to stitch when I am listening to baseball games on the radio. If no games are on, I listen to MLB on XM radio.
I would love to stitch outside and listen to a game but I would be eaten alive by the bugs.
Mary,
The background changes with the time of day and the season. In the morning it’s usually NPR on the radio. In the early afternoon, it’s a CD of music or an audio book. During football season, thank goodness for replays. But some of the best times are when it’s nice outside and I can haul the stitching outside in the sunshine on the patio.
Annette
I mostly stitch in my Lazyboy chair and have the tv on. I’m not watching — can’t do that and stitch at the same time, but I am listening. I love to sit somewhere the sun is coming in over my shoulder but the only place in my house is at the kitchen table so I don’t do that too often.
I find TV series and/or movies that will give me a specific amount of time to stitch to work the best for me. I have completed a few of Trish Burrs kits over the years and they are wonderful!
Thanks to the both of you,
Avis in VA
I like to stitch with the TV on or music playing, sitting next to my husband in the evenings after work. Before her passing, my cat would be in my lap, getting threads wrapped all around her, enjoying my stitching as much as I did. Next would be stitching with friends while visiting. I would love to win one of these kits!
Love the little birds.
I like working on these projects any time of the day or night. I can’t just sit and watch tv my hands have to be busy. Used to love sitting outside our camper and doing hand work, but do it on our deck now.
What a wonderful give away.
Thanks
Love her work and would to have one. I usually watch tv with our dogs in the evening working on embrodery.Linda in NM
My favorite activity while stitching is to listen to an audiobook. If not listening to an audiobook I’ll have the television on for background noise. My stitching nook is set up at the end of my dinning room table with bay windows behind me for plenty of natural light. The dogs are usually napping on the area rug next to my stitching chair. I can’t think of a better way to spend my afternoon.
I love to watch TV while I stitch. It comes in handy because I like the crime dramas but if I’m stitching, I’m looking at my lovely piece instead of the gore which seems to get worse and worse. I also sometimes stitch while visiting with friends but not often enough. Everyone is too busy and far away.
I have music on whilst I stitch. I find music soothing and doesn’t detract from my concentration. Having said that, in summer (when we get the warmer weather and no rain ha ha) I like to sit outside with the birds singing in the background. Love Trish Burrs needle painting and would be thrilled to receive one of her kits.
In my mind, I am off in a far away place like Fiji, right above the water looking at the beautiful fish and coral thru the see thru deck, dressed in my pjs with my embroidery hoop in hand trying out one of those beautiful Trish Burr bird kits. For real I am watching my grandsons play with their trains in the living room while I have my granny glasses on doing my favorite thing in the world…embroidery is my relaxation! Thank you for an opportunity to escape in my thoughts. 🙂
Depends on the embroidery … Most times the TV is on .
If I am alone in the house then I much prefer quiet
And stitching inmy loft lookin Luton the trees and lake and listening to the wind, bids and other critters
These are lovely. I prefer silence. However, I once belonged to a group of needlecraft friends and we met once a week.
Oh, my goodness! Those little birds are so sweet.
Stitching is an indoor activity for me – something I usually do either in front of the TV or while listening to music or an audiobook. With a small hoop or working in-hand I sometimes take a project along as a “waiting room” activity, and I can often get a lot done then. Of course, occasionally that means more time spent answering questions than actual sewing, but that’s okay too.
Phyllis
I love to stitch with friends or listening to my daughter tell me about her day. Otherwise I’ll stitch in dr offices, with tv or the radio on. I just love to stitch! Thank you for this wonderful give-a-way.
I don’t get much stitching done if I try and talk to friends while I’m doing it — I talk too much with my hands! I usually watch TV or listen to music. I get a lot done during football season because I like to sit with my husband while he watches, but I’m not necessarily interested in the game.
Merry Christmas!
I prefer to have the tv on. I did a little rose from one of Trish’s needlepainting books and watched X-Files episodes on Netflix for the whole thing. Of course, every time I look at the rose I think of X-Files now though! So next time I’ll put something different on 🙂
Hello Mary,
Most of the time I stitch sitting at my computer table,with music on, and in between looking in to my favourite blogs and social networks.
I stitch more(quantity) while chatting with family members..:)
sometimes in the evenings I sit outside and stitch watching the nature around..
when I got tensed I prefer silence..stitching make me calm..
To say I love to stitch all the time..
Love and Regards
Lakshmi Sadala
My nest has a tv with my own DVR so I can watch show I enjoy. The down side to this is that I am fast forwarding and that takes away from stitching and don’t get me started on the time I waste on the IPad. I also enjoy stitching on the terrace in the warm months. I usually stitch with friends at least once a month. I travel several months a year so I work on planes and at pools (in the shade and without suntan oils.)As you can see I will pretty much stitch anywhere, with anyone, it all comes down to having the time.
Trish’s kits are really cute. I am learning needle painting and need to get back to my project so I can master this technique. Thanks for giving us get information on your daily posts!
I generally like to submerse myself in peace and quiet while stitching while in the company of my 4 dogs, but I usually have several different projects that I’m working on that require differing degrees of concentration. I am interested in stumpwork and in needle painting, which require more of my attention, but I always have a cross stitch project going which allows me to listen to the news on TV. My favorite place to stitch, however, is with my EGA group. Love their input and support! I would absolutely love one of these kits. Trish Burr’s book on needle painting is on my Christmas wish list this year! Merry Christmas to all!
In the summer I love to set on the porch and listen to the world spin around me. I love to hear the birds and the breeze blowing through the trees. In the winter though its in my recliner and have an old movie on TV. Although I don’t see much cause my eyes are concentrating elsewhere, I would dearly love to win one of these kits,.
If the weather is warm, I love to sit outside and commune with nature while I am stitching. Otherwise, I like to listen to my classical symphony cds while inside. I have to have those little bluebirds–they remain me of all the little baby birds I have each year along my bluebird trail.
I tend to enjoy having some kind of noise going on – music, a movie, or television (love QVC and Gem shopping channels) while I am doing my needlework. It all depends on my mood. I especially enjoy the second and last Fridays of the month – that is when my local library sponsers a needlework group meeting. We bring whatever we are working on at the time, be it embroidery, knitting, crochet or sewing and we sit and chat and eat and, sometimes, get a little work done on our projects!
Karen in Morganton NC
I am new to embroidery at this level. I have quilted, embroidered, and cross stitched for years and bemoaned what looked like the demise of hand work until recently when it joyfully appears to be becoming popular again. I enjoy stitching when alone and near the windows and music playing. It’s so relaxing for me.
mmmm…at this time of year I enjoy embroidering by the woodstove and being all toasty warm. Ideally with a good b/w movie on in the background. In the summer, outside on the deck enjoying the warm weather and my flower gardens around me.
I have few of Trish’s books. I love her work!
Easy listening Christian music, and when the weather is nice and warm I enjoy listening to Gods nature as I sit near the wetlands next to my home.
Thank you Mary and Trish for this great give away. I have been so busy these days that I need to slow down and rest with my embroidering.
May the Peace of Christmas find you all!
I’m so glad for this giveaway for the kits are all soldout!!! Very glad!!!!
Funny that you ask this question as I was discussing this very subject with a non stitching colleague this morning 🙂 I mostly watch TV and listen to the radio or audiobook. For TV, it must be a documentary or a known movie (and not an action movie) as I mostly “listen” to TV than “watch” TV. Jane Austen movies are my favorite (and Jane Austen audiobooks too).
These designs are so beautiful.
When I am stitching, I prefer quiet. However, I get so involved in my hand work that I can tune out almost anything.
My stitching time is precious to me.
My favorite thing to do while embroidering is listen to NPR. I watch t.v. while I knit but I need to keep my eyes on the embroidery.
Lovely giveaway, Mary, thank you! I like to stitch outdoors with just (hopefully) the sounds of nature, or if I’m indoors, I prefer silence. We recently adopted a young kittie, so when I’m not playing referee between him and our 3 yr old cat, quiet time is a gooood thing!
Happy Holidays!
I generally stitch in the evenings, in front of the TV.
I’ve listened to some very good (and many not so good)
Shows that way. However, if it is something very fussy
Or very precise ~ (pulled thread for example). I will sit in the living room, listening to CD’s.
Those are lovely little kits and I would love to win one.
Regardless, I do enjoy your posts and hope you have a safe and happy Christmas, with those you love.
I like to watch old movies while I embroider. They are easier to follow for me while doing embroidery. As far as having others around that is good too I can carry on a conversation during the commercials. Inside is best in Oklahoma as the summer is too hot to be outside, winters are too wet and chilly and spring/fall I don’t get to do much hand work as other activities are taking up my time. I’d love to try either of the kits.
Thank you for the generous offer and to Trish too.
I usually watch TV while doing needlework and enjoy the conversations that arise when my daughter’s see me working on a piece. This had led to many legacy discussions about my wonderful mother-in-law who despite losing one eye to cancer created many of our Christmas ornaments, needlepointed kneelers for her church in St. Augustine, FL, cross stitched samplers, and even learned to create intricate cut work handerkerchiefs. She, of course, learned many of these techniques from her own mother.
Silence on my porch when the weather permits.
I love to listen to music whilst working on embroidery. Working with my hands and engaging my eyes and ears, as the music plays, takes me to a place of relaxation and peace.
When I am stitching I like silence or mood music in the background because it is like going into my own small world and I don’t think about anything except where the next stitch will go. Occasionally, I will watch NCIS or
a Hallmark movie. Stitching really keeps me centered.
Rob and I are retired and spend our time together sharing activities we enjoy. Whatever he is doing, I usually have a piece of needlework in my hands – watching Tv, in the car, chatting. I do put it down to eat! My current passion is a Kaffe Fassett designed needlepoint rug (Today, 12/6, is his 75th birthday!) but I’d love to have a new small, portable project! I’ve always wanted to do one of Trish’s needle paintings and the Bluebirds & Daisies miniature is one I’ve been eyeing for a while. I’d be honored to win!
I have a favorite spot in my home where I can see the humming birds at their feeders, I have the sun over my shoulder and can listen to a baseball game (when in season) on the TV. All this and stitching! Life is good.
I like to embroider anytime and anywhere, but I find that around this time of year I actually enjoy working on my projects during football games. (Crazy right?) You see I don’t really watch the games, but being around means I still get to spend time with my husband (and his brothers!). It’s not the most serene of scenarios, but oddly enough I find I get a lot done on Sunday afternoons. =)
Merry Christmas!
Excellent giveaway! I’m hoping for the Bluebirds and Daisies.
I like to have something playing in the background while stitching: TV, radio or better yet audio courses. Conversations work but I find that I don’t get much stitching done because of the need to pay attention to the other person. And while most people are forgiving of attention lapses while stitching, I still find it slightly rude and so prefer to stitch while watching/listening to something that doesn’t mind being ignored if my thread tangles.
BTW my spouse and I are big fans of the Great Courses from the Learning Company and TED talks. It’s a great way to keep learning while stitching away.
I have admired Trish Burr’s work for a long time. I have even purchased two of her books.
I usually listen to music, jazz being my favorite to stitch with. I have tried TV and audiobooks, but, for me, they seem to lessen the quality of the stitching experience.
I’m in my favorite location right now – in my stitching room (read second guest bedroom) – sitting on the sofabed, with the TV on. The husband has his own TV, so I can watch whatever I want….. It’s particularly great right now, with some freezing rain coming down outside, and toasty warm inside. Of course, I have to share my stitching place with 4 cats, who love to help me stitch, thankfully not all 4 at the same time.
In the summer with the window open, I also get to listen to the birds in the trees around the house.
I usually stitch in the evening…sitting on
our sofa and watching (listening to)television
with my husband. If I’m alone I like to listen
to books on tape. It seems like such an
indulgence to have someone read a book to me.
Pat S.
How pretty. I have always had the TV going Maybe it was my excuse to watch TV with 3 growing boys I didn’t stop very often But I loved to sit with them and do my needle work
I have learned that I am what experts refer to as a “haptic learner” or someone who learns best when I am doing something with my hands while listening or watching something. I watch television while I work, whether it is embroidery, knitting, or sewing, and I don’t miss a thing. If I just sit and watch TV, I fall asleep, so I MUST forge on and always be working on a project! (That’s a good excuse to shop, don’t you think?)
I promised myself I would have one of these kits someday. Usually, I get up early, turn on the TV and watch the news, then I check my e-mail. Next I do some needlework to get my day off to a good start. I’m retired so I don’t have to hurry with anything anymore. It is very nice.
I prefer to “listen” to tv while I stitch in my favorite chair surrounded by my nest of needlework, using my ott light and sometimes stitching with friends and sometime all alone. Thanks for the giveaway. Love the kits.
Dear lady,
I think this type of embroidery is one of the nicest there, because it seems a painting – a painting embroidered.
When board prefer the silence, in a good light …… I focus only on embroidery and is a therapy ….
thank you for giving away these two kits. With wishes for happy Christmas
Maria Filomena Reis
Cara senhora,
penso que esse tipo de bordado é um dos mais bonitos que há, pois parece uma pintura – um pintura bordada .
Quando bordo prefiro o silêncio, num local bem iluminado……concentro-me só no bordado e é uma terapia….
muito obrigada por sortear esses dois kits. Com votos de feliz Natal
Maria Filomena Reis
Hi there.
I love to stitch when all my doggies are around.We have 3 dachshunds.One mostly sits at my side and is watching what I do.So I have two of my most loved ones near me,my dogs and my stitching.
That is so relaxing and really gives you the fealing “I am home!”
Happy stitching to all of you.
Mady
Thanks for this opportunity to win one of these great kits! My choice would be the little birdies.
My preference for doing handwork at home is “watching” TV. Of course I love being among stitching friends, but that tends to really slow me down as I can’t stitch so well while laughing, chatting, and snacking.
I enjoy sitting in my sunny roon with a lovely veiw of our pond, that have many ducks and birds around it, and stitch away on one of Trish Burr’s lovely birds patterns. I’m at peace with the world, at that time.
This is an easy question to answer. I love to stitch while chatting and visiting with friends, preferably outside when the weather is warm in Canada. And I love to embroider alone while listening to classical music.
Ruth Ann
I love to stitch in the den surrounded by my hubby and kids. They are usually watching something on TV. I am not much of a TV fan so instead of missing out on their spontaneous conversations that pop up, I can sit on one of the couches and enjoy myself stitching.
Interestingly I just had this conversation with members of our embroidery guild. Fellow guild members discussed using audio-books to stitch by and I’m going to add these to my Christmas list. My idea of contentment is an afternoon listening to interviews or talk shows on my favourite radio station, (CBC radio one) while stitching in front of the fireplace with a window view of large fluffy snowflakes on a sunny winter afternoon. Working on one of Trish’s kits would remind me of warm days to come.
Marg from Ontario
Yes, What a great give-away! Thank you Mary and Trish! I usually stitch after my little girl goes to bed and DH and I are watching TV on the sofa. Just now we are working our way through the ‘lost’ series while I work my way through Trish’s Needle Painting Embroidery: Fresh Ideas for Beginners” book. I also stitch my way through her naps. Then I either listen to sermons online or watch really girly movies like “Anne of Green Gables” or “Emma”…
Hi Mary,
What a lovely Christmas present!
I usually “listen” to recorded TV shows while I work…being a multi-tasker I can clean out the DVR at the same time I whip up something beautiful. Thanks for the give away!
Sheila from CA
Hi Mary,
So cute!!!! Those little birds are so adorable. I would be so honoured to win one.
I’m busy embroidering one of Trish Burr’s kits at the moment. Usually I like to embroider in total silence, with my thoughts, drifting to and fro.
And sometimes I like to listen cd’s of Sting. Not too loudly.
When I’m stitching I’m totaly happy. My soul comes to rest. When stitching, all the sorrows of the day are drifting away. A day without any stitching isn’t a Happy Day. But I must confess that Trish’s designs, when stitching, are of great help.
Trish’s kits are so beautiful — I’d love to win one. I listen to audiobooks while I stitch on my train journey to and from work each day. When I stitch at home I “listen” to TV – don’t realy watch because I’m looking at my stitching. I like to stitch outdoors but in Chicago the weather usualy doesn’t cooperate — too cold or too windy.
I usually like to have some sort of period movie or miniseries on when I’m embroidering. Usually Sense & Sensibility or Bleak House (2006) 😉
I like doing my stitching either watching tv or listening to music. What is really cool about that is, when I hear the same song or watching a repeat of the show while I was stitching, it will flash me back to the project I was working on. I usually stitch gifts so I will remember the project and the person I made it for. I love that!
I usually have the TV on with a LONG movie or series DVD running (I don’t have cable). That way I can curl up on the couch and stitch without having to do anything other than relocate cats every few minutes.
I do take my stitching to other folks’ homes or gatherings but not as much will be done.
Dear Mary,
I embroider really everywhere: in the train to my work, at home with the tv or radio on, on my balcony in the summer. The only places i do not embroider (at the moment) are my bathroom and my bed 😉
Kind regards, mari-jan
Oh, Oh, Oh, I’m sew excited for an opportunity to win one of these kits!!!!
I like to sit in the living room with my husband as he watches TV. It is about the only time we have together. It seems that embroidering while listening to the TV takes my mind off the TV and still allows me to concentrate on the embroidery. I also like to listen to light jazz music while I’m doing hand work.
Thanks, Tris and Mary for the opportunity!!
I have a favorite spot in the Sun Room where I love to stitch. It doesn’t matter if T.V or radio or family and friends conversation is going on. I can stitch and still enjoy the surroundings. In the summer I love to sit on the patio and enjoy nature while stitching.
I love to stitch while my husband and I watch TV in the evening. Though I also love to stitch while listening to a great audiobook. I’d probably accomplish more if I stitched without distractions around me but I enjoy these stitchy evenings at home.
Thanks for the chance to win one of these gorgeous kits.
I love to stitch outside when the weather is nice, but I can stitch with music or books or tv. I spend a lot of time alone in the evening as my DH goes to bed early, so I usually sit in my comfy chair and listen/watch TV while I stitch..thank you for the giveaway, very sweet kits..RebeccaK.
How beautiful. I agree that those little birds are just the cutest thing. I have joined a group of around 35 women and we meet every Tuesday for about 3-4 hours. I love the music these women make with their voices and their laughter. That is my favorite “music”.
When I am stitching on a project I enjoy the down time most when my Husband is watching a good game on tv (his comments are great to listen to), backed up by my birds chatter and sound effects. It is nicest when there is a fire in the woodstove and no plans or need to venture away.
a back-up or alternative to that enjoyment is listening to an audio book. Somehow, that is just not as comfy.
What an awesome giveaway!!! Trish’s offerings are beautiful – hope I win. I most enjoy stitching when it’s quiet. I may gaze out the window every now and then but mostly I just think about things as I stitch – life, things that are going on… etc.
Happy Christmas!!!
My days are very busy with my mother (dementia) and also helping out with grandkids so I am finding that I love to stitch almost anytime. In the summer months, I did love sitting outside in my great backyard and stitch and read my stitching books – keep finding there is so much more to learn about stitches and techniques. As the weather has gotten so much cooler, I try to sneak time during the day sitting by the fireplace and stitch and every evening when we both finally sit down and flip on the tv; I pick up my needle and piece and begin — sometimes going til early hours. I seem able to zone into whatever I am doing and distractions disappear — so relaxing.
I stitch in a box or with a fox. I feel free to stitch in a tree. I will stitch anywhere, with any background noise or not. I stitch a lot. I like to stitch. It’s what I do. It’s what I am. I like to stitch, Sam-I-Am. I do! I do! Thank you for the give-away. If I win, it will keep idle hands at bay.
Hi Mary,
What do I like to do when stitching? Humm? I live alone so the TV is almost always on. I listen to the dialogue. I can follow the story line and still focus on the work at hand. Sometimes I talk to my dogs even if they are asleep. They don’t care about politicians and such and don’t argue with me.
If I’m going out to visit family and friends I keep small projects ready to take with me. It seems to be the norm for us to have knitting or stitching projects going while we are chating.
The Trish Burr minatures are so pretty I would love to be able to do one. I really, really like her designs.
Thanks for giving us a chance to win one!
Jane
My favorite thing to do while stiching is to watch Downton Abbey on DVD or watch one of my many Jane Austen movies. I have most of the movies memorized, so I can mainly just listen to them and stitch for hours on end. I also like to stitch with friends, but then we usually end up getting more chatting done than stitching, lol
Hi Mary,
Aren’t these kits delightful?! What I surround myself with while stitching is music. I love listening to almost any kind of music on while I’m “in the zone” as I refer to my time with needle and thread.
Thanks so much for this wonderful opportunity. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas.
It depends on what I am stitching. Spring Splendor demands my full attention and I prefer silence. Mill Hill bead kits can be done in the car, watching t.v., visiting with friends, etc. I do take some pieces camping but only if they are washable.So it all depends on the piece.
Both kits are awesome!! I love to stitch no matter where I am . . . evenings watching TV with my husband, in the car, sitting on a tropical beach . . . at lunchtime at work . . .doesn’t matter! Stitching is my thing and I do it as often as I can. I would love to win either one. Grovenore
I’ve always embroidered (or crocheted or knitted) while listening to TV. My work schedule is such that I need to combine the two activities to fit them in.
I’ve just gotten into needlepainting: I have Trish’s books and DVD. This kit would be exactly the right thing to help me to the next level.
I’m pretty sure I need those bluebirds in my life!
My preferred situation is to stitch while watching a movie or something on TV. I have a hard time just stitching in silence, and I also have a hard time just watching a movie on TV–I need something to do with my hands. So I combine. 🙂
I stitch almost anywhere, any time. But most often, I like company when I stitch. I don’t know anyone else who embroiders, so most of the time I’m working on a project while relaxing or visiting with friends or family. I do like to have the television, radio, or something else going on if I’m alone. For me, stitching alone or in silence is maddening and I can’t concentrate, it isn’t relaxing at all. Even if I’m trying to plan out something complicated, it’s much easier if something else is going on at the same time.
My favorite place to be is sitting tailor-style on my couch while my husband does his latch-hooking next to me, with some brainless television show on in the background. It’s the best way to end my evening.
It doesn’t matter what is going on around me, once I start embroidering it all becomes a distant buzz. In this busy world we live in, my solitude and peace is found every time I pick up a needle. It gives me the ability to ‘zone out’, my children have said that a bomb could go off and I still wouldn’t hear it I when I’m sewing. All is right with the world when it involves a needle and thread.
Thank you so much, Mary for another wonderful give-away! I must have sound! Sometimes it will be TV or a video, which I don’t watch, but listen to, but usually it’s an audiobook. I have a lot of long books on my iPod!
Gosh I love those birds!
Some needlework is mindless so I don’t care if the TV is on. But for more detailed work, I prefer to sit in my fav chair with the radio on.
While stitching at home, I enjoy having the radio on–usually classical music. When I am stitching along with my stitching group, I enjoy the conversations going on around me–but I do have to double-check my work!
I love to stitch while things are going on me. I just have to be careful to pay attention in case something important is happening! I don’t like it much when I miss the big reveal at the end of an exciting mystery. My family says I “listen” to TV, I don’t watch it.
Mary C.
I love stitching in the early moning when the sun comes in through the window to provide perfect light. I like quiet solitude so I can get totally immersed in the stitching with nothing else to distract me.
What a great giveaway, i love Trish Burr’s work
I tend to listen to the radio whirl I stitch, but actually find watching TV is healthier for my eyes as it makes me look up and refocus my eyes occasionally!
I really enjoy having relaxing music playing while I embroder or do any other type crafting. It helps me to relax, and enjoy the stitching. It is nice to be with others at times as well…
After having taught school my entire career, I love my silence when I am stitching. The prime example of that was when I stitched a very, very large piece several years ago. It measures twelve inches high and five feet wide. I started that piece on the first day of the Iraq invasion. Each cross stitch became a prayer that every person, on either side of the conflict, would be safe. Thousands of prayers were lifted up during that mammoth project. The piece graces my living room wall….reminding me that war does not solve anything. It only produces more pain and suffering.
Just music would be wonderful! But realistically, family chatter, which can be nice, too…
I love Trish’s pansies. Thank-you for the “give-away”. We have a solarium that can be used from April through to October and that by far is my favourite place to stitch. The rest of the year I usually stitch at the kitchen table and- QUIET PLEASE.
I like things going on around me.
If I am in my studio, I tend to have DVDs or audiobooks going or on Wendsday nights there is all of my friends from our weekly Stitch-n-Bitch night.
If I am preforming at a Ren Faire, I tend to have people coming by seeing and asking questions about what I am doing or simply chatting with other actors.
I like to have the tv on (a movie or a show I don’t have to pay too much attention to) sometimes, but other times my husband plays music on our iPod and we talk and hang out while I sew. Which is actually what we did last night. 🙂
How could I resist a contest blog post that includes the phrase ‘simple dimple’?!
I like to listen to audiobooks while I’m doing handwork, or else plotting my own next novel.
Whenever I’m doing any form of stitching it’s mostly with the tv in the background, but haven’t a clue as to what’s on.
I would love to win either of Trish Burr’s mini-kits. Thank you both!
Healthy and Happy holidays to each and all of you.
I just luv Trish’s work and was lucky enough to do her first online course with her – just magic! As for my embroidery habit I like to be in my sewing room with some good music playing in the background mostly because everything I need is then at hand and if friends want to join me that is a bonus then we can share our talents and help one another because lets face it we cannot let the art of embroidery die and must encourage people at every opportunity and who would not be charmed to do these amazing miniatures – thanks again for a wonderful blog.
Eleanor
x
depends on the project… if it’s something simple that does not require a lot of concentration, I have the TV on… if it is something like these delightful miniature kits, then I need quiet so I can concentrate… would love one of these – my daughter has a Trish Burr kit already, we could work on them together! Elizabeth L Mac… Saskatoon, SK
I like to read (I use a bean bag to hold the pages open), or listen to music as I work.
I love birds and love stitching out in the sunlight enjoying them at my feeders where I find calm and peace from the rush of life. Trish Burr’s work has always facinated me and though I do many forms of needlework, needlepainting is newer to me and I would be honored to have one of her projects to work on.
I don’t ever have enough time to stitch but when I do, it’s usually in the evening with the TV on. I would love to stitch listening to audio mysteries. Unfortunately, my eye sight is such that I need reading glasses plus those clip on magnifiers. This little stitcheries are adorable. Thanks for your generous offer.
Karen L.
Morning Mary
Thanks again to you and Trish for another great giveaway. I like sitting in the quite when I am stitching. Stitching is my way of unwinding from all that is or has been going on in my life. My time of solitude.
I really prefer it if the house is empty of all family (we are 7 here,ol) and I can concentrate. A hot cup of tea or cider near by and a bowl of jelly beans makes it perfect! However, that is the IDEAL. The reality is a house of TV noises, happy child sounds and the occasional phone ringing. I have learned to tune it all out with my “mother’s radar” on alert, lol. Thanks for the opprotunity to win one of these darling kits.
I have 2 little ones so I stitch where ever I can. Outside while they are playing, inside during naps, or even in the car when my husband is driving. My favorite place though is at the community craft group. That is also the place where I seem to get the most accomplished in a short amount of time. Unfortunately that is only once a month so I have to settle most of the time for on the couch watching my husbands shows on TV, after the kids are in bed.
I didn’t have to think about this one. The absolute best place for me to be doing embroidery is at an Embroiderer’s Guild meeting, having a chat with other members and seeing and discussing what they are currently working on. It’s the perfect way to get away from the rest of the world for a few hours.
OOooh…would love to see nothing more than those two little birds perched in my Stocking on Christmas morning!How cute they are!I enjoy stitching mostly sitting outdoors on my porch on a beautiful day listening to the sounds of nature and all the little birds chirping away, especially in the spring time when everything is in bloom . Such a relaxing therapy! :)In the winter during a snowfall I like to sit by a window and a nice warm fireplace and watch a blanket of snow form as I stitch away.
Thanks for this wonderful giveaway. Happy holidays everyone & good luck to all!
Tessa
What a beautiful kit!
My favorite place is all of the above. I enjoy doing any of them as long as I have my embroidery to work on. I am generally working on several things and work on the piece according to the environment I am in.
Hi Mary!
My absolute favorite place to stitch is with a group of friends, where we can all work on a piece and laugh and giggle at the same time. I always find it stimulating to receive the comments from those around me and vice versa. Otherwise, I prefer to stitch at home in my sewing room with a little ambient music or TV. The companionship from other stitchers is like none other, and there is always such a bond that forms over the years.
Thanks Mary for your positive contribution every day.
I like listening to audiobooks or chatting with friends while I do my needle work.
I grew up in an agrarian area and the women were always doing needlework, sewing, knitting or crocheting. It reminds me of some of the good times in my childhood when the ladies would all sit around and talk while doing their latest projects.
I prefer radio or tv talk shows. My 93 year old mother who lives with me likes to do beadwork while watching Korean soap operas and has tried to interest me in the same but I have never gotten the hang of reading subtitles and stitching at the same time. How does she do that?!
I usually have the TV on while I embroider, though I don’t always pay it a lot of attention. I feel fairly sure that with a kit of Trish Burr’s to work on, I wouldn’t be paying much attention at all!
For me, it depends on how hard the project is / how hard that section is. I actually do a lot of my stitching during work meetings and the like … although it is not my favourite place to stitch, I do like the meetings much more than I would without stitching to keep me from falling asleep!
Thank you for the chance to win one of these. I had intended to purchase one and then they were gone. I used to only stitch while watching TV, but since discovering the joy of free style embroidery, I find I can stitch just about anywhere there is decent light. Previously I was always in my ‘stitching chair’ to be able to read pattern and stitch (usually cross-stitch). Over the holidays, I hope to try listening to Podcast stories while stitching.
Hi Mary!
I like to stitch while listening to something, whether it be music, the TV, an audiobook, the radio – whatever! I’ve tried embroidering outside and have decided I like inside better – too much wind and dust outside. I usually don’t talk while stitching but I will listen to conversation going on around me. I’m just not a multitasker, I guess! Thanks for the opportunity to win one of these adorable kits!
Alyssa
Darling embroidery pictures….I can almost hear the little birds twittering.
Thanks to you,Mary, and Trish for this lovely giveaway. I’m going through some health issues right now and would love to win a kit. I like to stitch with a TV on, or chatting with friends. Unless lots of counting is required. Then I like to stitch in silence. Thank you from Cheryl in San Diego
I usually sit in my recliner with the foot rest up so my miniture poodle can lay across my leg while I stitch. And I will watch old mystry movies on TV like The Thin Man, Charlie Chan, Agatha Christi or Sherlock Holmes.
Embroidery is one of those pastimes that lends itself to many situations. Most of the time, I keep my projects nearby when I watch TV in the evening, but, being an avid camping enthusiast, a small project is perfect when I’m sitting at the campsite table, drinking in the clean mountain (or desert or ocean) air. To embroider is to calm my heart and mind, bring balance to things and feel creative. The only real requirement is that I be seated, but I have taken stitches standing up from time to time!
Dear Mary – thanks to you and Trish for this opportunity! I used to stitch while watching television, but now have ‘discovered’ audio books – and it’s a perfect combination! Very theraputic and relaxing 🙂
Thank you again,
Tomi Jane
Hi Mary,
Another superbly beautiful giveaway. Thank you for the chance.
First choice for me is the the garden, but here in the UK the weather doesn’t usually allow this for very long, so it’s inside with Classic FM on. I can spend along time, away in a dream doing my embroidry with the very relaxing music in the background.
Take care, and as always, thank you for my daily pick me up.
Karen in Kettering UK
I’d love to be able to say that I welcome chatter with friends and family while I am stitching and find that with some embroidery techniques this is possible. However, my major works so far have been cross stitch and I don’t have the multi-tasking skills to find my place on the chart, equivalent spot on the material, place the stitch and carry on a conversation. So for me it is usually audiobook. I can feel more saintly if it is a language teaching CD ( so I can have a good reason to be selfish)
I have made myself a little nest in a recliner in front of the TV. I’m surrounded by threads and notions. I sort of turn the TV into a radio and “listen” while I stitch. Total relaxation and creative joy! What a wonderful opportunity to try thread painting. The perfect size projects and the cutest little birds ever ….. Thanks for the chance to win ….. wish me luck!
SusieW
Mary, I find myself stitching in all of those situations. It really just depends on the project of the moment. some require more attention & concentration so the music option is usually best then. But other projects are simpler & just require a lot of time so it’s fun to be surrounded by other creative people so we can chat, laugh, cry etc. I suppose the bottom line is that I love to stitch just about anywhere & anytime!! Debbie in Redmond WA
I love to watch British detective stories when I stitch. I can stitch for hours with a good Poirot mystery or Midsomer Murder. I’m still waiting for the servant I don’t have to keep my teacup full.
=)
This sounds so great sure hope I win. I would love to do one of these kits. Thank you
Good Morning Mary!
I do most of my stitching in front of the tv. I can’t just sit and watch tv or movies – I have to be doing something, too, so stitching is perfect. When I am working in my craft room, I listen to audio books, but mostly that is where I do beading.
Thanks for the giveaway – and for all the great daily blogs!
How exciting! I work in miniatures and am thrilled for the chance to win one of these!
TV…I like to watch TV and old movies. Also work with friends and in that case there is conversation, mostly mine.
Thank you for this but mostly for the info that becomes life long knowledge.
I tend to put on the tv when I’m stitching, either a movie or a tv show, but I like to put on something I’ve seen before so that I don’t have to pay too much attention.
I don’t mind stitching with other people around, except that sometimes I find them too distracting and then I don’t end up doing very much.
I absolutely adore the blue birds. They are so precious and would be so much fun to embroidery. When I embroider, I sometimes watch TV, but usually listen to classical music. Now I am listening to Christmas Music.
I hope I win this time. Dying to embroider those little birds. I live in the mountains in Colorado where it is very cold, so I embroider a lot!! Thanks for the great give aways!!!! Sherry
I prefer to stitch with my stitch group. When that’s not possible I sit in my BIG chair and a half[ I can spread out several projects] and stitch away. thank you for this opportunity. Sherry
I listen to music or, if I’m outside, I listen to whatever is going out there. 🙂 I have one of Trish Burr’s books and find her so inspiring.
Merry Chritsmas!
Sandy
The best moment of the week for me is my sunday morning. My husband still in bed, a large pot of tea, a bit of jazz on the radio playing softly and my embroidery in front of me.
The cat and the dog are very close by, never leaving me out of their site, much to happy that I’m up and about. The curtains are open and I’m enjoying every bird that comes in my line of sight. With Japanese embroidery you have to look up from your work regularly. That is not a problem from where I am enjoying my sunday morning embroidery.
Jessica from Holland
I truly prefer music or silence. Thanks to Trish Burr and to you Mary for the giveaway!
I dont work outside in case the wonders of the world decide to drop a little wonder of their own on my stitching. I do however; have a table set up in front of the t.v. but darn it if Downton Abbey repeats on Netflix dont distract me! Sometimes I have John Coltrane in the background and once in a while all I need is the soothing sound of my dog sleeping.
I would love to win one of these miniatures. Most of my stitching is done on Tuesday mornings when a friend of mine and I get together to stitch. We have done this for many years. It is the best atmosphere, because there is some conversation, but if needed it is quiet so we can concentrate on something that requires complete attention. If I am smocking or knitting, I like watching movies on tv. I think I should try audio books too.
Hello,
These little birds are so sweet !
I enjoy the silence while embroidering – however I often stitch in the evening, while watching TV with my husband.
I hate being outside : the light of the sun disturb me.
I love to embroider sitting in my family room with the hubby gleefully chatting and flipping channels on the remote! The birds in the give away are absolutely gorgeous!
Hi Mary! Oh my gosh I just love these kits! What an awesome giveaway!
When I’m stitching I like to have the TV on – watching Downton Abbey for the 100th time, or even Midsomer Murders. I like to sit by the windows to our back deck so I can see the birds coming by for a snack at our feeders and the other wildlife that stops by on occasion. 🙂
Good luck to everyone – what a great Christmas treat!
Jen
Hi Mary, what a lovely giveaway! Thanks so much.
I like my peace and quiet while I embroider. I have my favorite chair by the window, where its bright and i can also look at the trees while sewing. Love,
Suman.
I have found that listening to audio books while stitching is double the fun! I enjoy listening to something funny, such as Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series (very popular among my stitching group), but have also had a great time embroidering while listening to the more than a dozen CDs comprising “The Grapes of Wrath” read by the incomparable Cherry Jones. I wish I had more opportunities to stitch while being serenaded by nature, though.
Living in Michigan we have the change of seasons. In the spring stitching on my patio amongst the flowers and listening to the birds, and in the summer the flowers are alive with vibrant colors. In the fall meeting with friends at the quilt shop, and winter at their homes. Never at a loss for a place to stitch.
I’m not picky about what’s going on while I stitch as long as there is sound. I usually put on a movie that I’ve seen but love so I can enjoy the story without having to pay full attention. I’m usually not very productive if there is conversation, I used to get teased by my mom for going to sit n stitch gatherings and doing no stitching lol
I love to do my handwork just being and chatting with my family. They are my inspiration and my ever faithful critique. Trish,s little birds are soooo adorable and it would be so much fun to see them develope.
Merry Christmas Mary and thank you for all you do for all of us out here 🙂
jean marie
I just love to stitch! At my guild meetings, with two informal stitch and
Chat groups I belong to, every night while watching TV, inside, outside,
At home, while traveling. if a day goes by I don’t stitch, I am sick in bed!
Today I am stitching in Holland while on a river cruise! Thank you for
Obtaining these give always. I would dearly like to try one.
I met Trish Burr in 2011. Her work is gorgeous. I’d be so happy to win one of the kits and would be glad to share a pic of the finished piece. I can only hope!!
I usually do my embroidery with the TV on, what can I say, I am married! I really prefer doing my embroidery either with quiet and no distractions or while listening to an audiobook. Whichever, I am addicted to needlework. Judie
I stitch everywhere. I work at meetings, on the bus, on planes, even in cars. But I prefer my dedicated seat at home with a remote to control music (preferably classical, though right now it’s seasonal Christmas), my ott-lite and materials within easy reach and the option to catch up on my PVR recordings. I can’t really concentrate when friends are around talking though. Froehliche Weihnachten!
I recently moved from a big house in a large city to a tiny house in a small town. The house,which I’ve named Swan Cottage,sits on the edge of the appropriately named Swan Creek. Every morning while I wait for a pair of mute swans to appear for their morning feeding I work on my embroidery projects. The swans aren’t punctual, but I don’t mind waiting and the time goes by quickly as I relax with a cup of tea and my latest project. Kelly Pucci
Those birds are adorable! I like to stitch in front of the TV, and also outside in the summer when we go to camp. Thanks for offering this giveaway.
While embroidering there are several different things I like to do depending on how I’m feeling: Some days I will listen to the tv and not always watching, other days I will turn on the radio or listen to music or to even a talking book, but sometimes I just sit in a quiet room and embroider. My favorite to win would be the birds.
These kits are so charming! Ususally have TV a movie or audiobook on while I stitch. It’s really something to read these comments and realize how many other people all over the world are enjoying their embroidering experience as much as I am. Thanks for everything!
Actually, any of the listed co-activities works well for me while doing my hand stitching, be it embroidery, piecing or quilting. I just love stitchery of all kinds, and don’t relish having empty, idle hands! Taking some small stitching project along when waiting for doctor’s appointments, car maintenance, etc., always sparks friendly conversation with others in the waiting room – it’s a great icebreaker.
TV or just music are my preferences. Pick me!
Definitely music, all types, just good music. We have no TV so that’s out. Music is a perfect companion. When I’m at stitch-ins, I think I visit too much and don’t end up stitching, but it is still very much fun.
Thanks again Mary, you’re the best,
Shelia in Oklahoma
Hi Mary,
I love to embroider to music…….classical for some reason. Vivaldi, Pachabel, Bach……..ah the strings of the intrusments making beautiful music while I create. It’s cool. Thanks!
LYnn
Ideally, I like to listen to music while I work. I save the audio books for boring work, like doing dishes. TV is too distracting. If it’s a show worth watching, I want to give it my complete attention. (Often, though, I watch trivial stuff in the hopes I’ll catch a wee nap in the middle and awake refreshed to do more work.) With embroidery, or crafts of any kind, I like to be absorbed in it, and not too distracted.
For most of my embroidery I need to concentrate, so I cannot have conversations. I like to have the TV on, mostly the news. I am then able to listen when I can and concentrate when I need to.
I prefer doing my crafts with the tv on and my husband on the couch, either sleeping or surfing the web or actually watching the tv. It feels really cozy and I am getting something done!
I stitch in the evening while my hubby is watching the news,and if he’s had enough of that, we listen to all styles of music and chat. Surprisingly I get most of my stitching done with hubby around. Its just so relaxing.
Thank you, Trish and Mary!
I have always enjoyed stitching while watching TV, although my husband, when he was living, used to say that I did not “watch” TV so much as “listen” to it. I’m really enjoying all the Hallmark channel Christmas movies right now!
One time, when I was just finishing a piece, I got it out and stitched it while we were traveling in the truck. But it didn’t take that long to finish… And I always like to see what’s going on on the road.
Merry Christmas everyone!
When I’m ‘in the zone’ it doesn’t matter where I am or what is going on around me; however, working on a new stitch is best learned with silence or music playing softly.
I would loved to be outside in the midst of nature while i embroider. But not possible in the city where I live in. And If I could win this give away it would be my dream come true to own one of Trish Burr’s kits. I love her works.
Thank You
Normally, I do my handwork in front of the TV, but during this time of year, there is nothing I enjoy more than sitting by the Christmas tree with Christmas carols playing in the background.
I love Trish’s kits! My DIL is starting to stitch and one of these would be a great present for her. Hope I win!
I would loved to be outside in the midst of nature while I embroider. But not possible in the city where I live in. Because Bangalore has become a city of cocrete jungle.
And If I could win this give away it would be my dream come true to own one of Trish Burr’s kits. I love her works.
Thank You.
I love doing my embroidering sitting under the aspen trees in our yard in the summer time. winter time?That’s another matter. But no matter where I do my embroidering I like peace and quite or great music to listen to.
I really really like Trish Burr’s work and designs, but have never had the opportunity to do any. I would love to win this give away and start doing some of her designs. Thanks Mary for giving all us women and men the fun of winning something. It’s like getting a Christmas present.
Hi Mary. I wear hearing aids that are bluetooth enabled, so I listen to my favorite TV shows right into my aides while I’m stitching. Early in the morning I listen to my husband’s radio show while I stitch also. I can’t stitch well in a group of stitchers, as being hearing impaired all the talk is distracting while I’m stitching.
I can stitch in the car, but I’ve never been to read while riding…don’t understand that!
Where do I love to stitch?? Almost any where. I do most of my stitching in front of the TV, that”s where my good lamp is but when the sun is shining and the windows are open, OH, what joy! To stitch these flowers here in the Midwest when its snowing, we will get snow, right, would be bliss.
Have 2 Trish Burr’s books–used together with your videos, rapidly improving my knowledge and skills–thanks, Mary!
I stitch downstairs near my “office”; in the diningroom near my patio so I can watch our hummingbird feed and chase away others hummers; stitch in the loft to keep my husband company, while watching tv; stitch in my bedroom where the late morning light is best.
Best of the Holiday Season, Mary!
PJ Tomita
Sounds great. I like to listen to radio podcasts while I stitch so I can keep my eyes on my embroidery, but still be absorbing the latest cool science facts.
Thanks for the opportunity to win something so pretty!
Bethany
Such lovely kits!
I tend to ignore the world around me once I really get into that flow so many times it doesn’t make much of a difference if there’s music or a radio/tv programme on. But it really depends on how much I have to concentrate on the embroidery, how complicated the stitches and/or patterns are. If I need to concentrate on getting the stitches right, telly can be really distracting. As can other people — I prefer to be either alone or left alone while working. With other techniques, I can enjoy company, but not really when embroidering.
It’s nice to have some music, but it’s not a must as I’m likely to get into a state where I won’t hear much of it anyway. Sometimes I listen to a programme while embroidering, but of cause it only works with shows that doesn’t require 100 % focus (reruns of comedy shows are good) on the programme nor require reading subtitles.
Cats are nice companions — as long as they sleep! Not as fun when a kitten spots your skeins of floss or seed beads…
What a lovely give away I have been thinking about ordering some of Trishs birds they are so colourful and beautiful. I love her designs.
When I sit down to do my needlework I usually like silence as I do counted canvaswork and it takes all of my attention span that I have to count and stitch. Sometimes my husband plays music but very quietly which is okay if I’m doing a simple stitch but complicated ones I need silence. Have a Great Christmas everyone and hope you all have a prosperous New Year.
I get distracted by too much going on, so I guess I prefer silence. That is easier now that my hearing is going 🙂 … I really like both of these kits! The birds are so fluffy and the flowers are soft. Thank you for giving us this opportunity!
I listen to audiobooks in my sunroom and watch for the birds,chipmunks,squirrels, deer, etc. It’s the nest that I’ve dreamed of having all my life.
Mary, I love to be anywhere doing stitching. I listen to music in the car while my husband is driving, listen to the waves on the deck if I am on a cruise, and watch TV with my husband in the evening and stitch. I have a lot of great conversations over stitching in waiting rooms when I take someone to the doctor or dentist. Not any my friends stitch so having a group session would be impossible,but it would be great to have a stitching circle. All in all,I love to do anything and stitch.
When embroidering I prefer silence. It is a great time to think about everything and to pay attention to what I am doing! I make fewer mistakes with silence, but sometimes a little classical music is nice. I also like to sit in a sunny window and watch the world go by (I love birds).
I love stitching best with my sewing friends,
chatting and enjoying their company. Usually,
I am stitching near my family with whatever they
are watching. If I’m alone, I have a period video
or audio book going for company. Thanks for the
opportunity!
Hi Mary, I like to stitch in the living room, in my special “stitching corner”, listening to music. Sometimes, when there’s something I like on, I do it “listening” to TV, not actually watching but every once in a while looking up to put a face in a particular voice. I prefer music, though, and opera is my favorite. Some times I do my stitching outside, but I get distracted with the surroundings, and also miss having my threads and tools (and magnifying lamp!!) around me. I do mostly petit point because I love everything “miniature”. I’ve been meaning to try stitch painting, but have, so far, been shy about it. Maybe this time I’ll get to it. Those Trish Burr’s kits are magnificent! Thank you for every charming, witty letter you send us. They are really a daily pleasure. alicia.
Mary, thank you for such a sweet giveaway! When I stitch, I like to sit by a window and hear what’s going on outside. I live in an urban area on a busy street. We have lots of birds here, as well as cars and so on. I love to hear the birds.
When I stitch, I want silence and alone time.
Mary,
This is one of those instances that I’m praying you select me…….
These little wonders are absolutely beautiful!!!!!!
I’d love to be sitting in my workroom with nice Afrikaans music playing in the background while I work on the birds especially. They’ll be taking me back home where birds are abundant and I truly miss that part of Africa living in the US.
Did I mention praying you select me…… please please please!!!
The little birds are darling. I usually embroider in the evenings while the TV is on in the background so I can glance up on occasion. I tend to do a nicer job though when I don’t have distractions going on around me, just soothing music or light conversation. I like to focus on what I’m doing. It is so relaxing.
OMG! This would be like the best gift ever! can you pick me? pleasee pretty please with sugar on top?
to the question: I like to listen to music, audiobooks or chatting with friends or family while I embroider, basically anything that doesn’t need me to look up much. I’m still not good enough (or brave enough) to watch tv and embroider. I tried it once, but em… let’s say the embroidery part didn’t go well…
I just love stitching while watching television, especially if its a Jane Austen movie or something historical like the Six wives of Henry the 8th or even Pirates of the Carribean. Doesn’t matter what I am stitching I like how it feels so romantic and calming. I crave the little birds and daiseys. Thanks for GIVEAWAY Mary.
Audrey
I tend to do most of my stitching either listening to music or watching movies with epic designs, like The Lord of the Rings. Seeing all the beautiful costumes really inspires me to keep working so I can have beautiful things for myself.
Mary, What a lovely give away you are offering. When I am working “serious” embroidery, I prefer silence. I also enjoy sitting outside under the trees, but since I live near Buffalo NY, those days are limited. When I stitch with friends at least once every week, I am sure to take something that does not require a lot of concentration as we enjoy a lot of chatter. And then again, depending on my mood for the day, I sometimes play music while stitching. So, you see, I have no “favorite” way of working, I just adapt to the environment. I guess it really does not matter as long as I am able to stitch.
Pat
My favorite environment for doing needlework is in front of our Christmas tree, contented husby reading or watching TV, 3 Scottish Terriors curled up at our feet and cups of egg nog handy at our sides. If we could extend the Christmas season I’d get a lot more needlework finished!
May the joys and peace of this season visit every house worldwide!
Love both of these kits. I siltch in three of the environments listed: while watching TV (NCIS or Law & Order or Masterpiece theater preferred), while chatting with friends, or out on the deck listening to the birds and water fountain.
The tiny bluebirds are just so cute!
I love to embroider in peace & quiet or with music playing softly. I just get lost in my thoughts & the minutes seem to turn to hours in a blink of an eye. Supper is late arriving on the table once again. LOL
Linda A
Ontario, Canada
I like to embtoidery while watching TV with my husband and while visiting my out of state relatives I embroidery while visiting my 90 year old mother in law she likes to quilt so while she quilts I embroider. We have many pleasant memories as she does with her Mom doing hand work many years ago when she was a young lady too. It would be great to have such a lovely project to work on during our visits thank you for such a lovely give away
I have a private personal “Embroidery Nest”. It is the most wonderful place that is out of the living room, away from everyone and by a window. Here for a few hours every day I seclude my self to embroidery and watch old movies.
My preference would be to sew listening to quiet music. I have become very good at sewing while tuning out family, tv, dogs, the phone and an ocd neighbor who mowed his lawn every day last summer. I very much like the litle birds needlepoin. Thanks!
Those bluebirds are so darn cute I would love to win that kit. The Attic Pansies are just as lovely too. I had to raise 2 orphan baby wrens last summer and they were all fluffy and cute like the kit except they weren’t blue. I have an area set up in the living room where I do my stitching. It has a recliner, daylight floor lamp with magnifier and a shelf unit nearby with my needlework necessities in a box. Usually the tv is going because of others but I prefer to stitch outdoors in the summer, listening to the songbirds entertain me. I prefer nature sounds or some music but it’s mostly tv going which I tune out when I get going with my needle and thread. I think it would be nice to stitch with others but I don’t know anyone else that embroiders by hand. I take knit/crochet classes and you get so inspired by like minds & what they are doing or discovered. Your blog is the next best thing! Thank you & Trish for this opportunity and have a very merry Christmas!
Mary – the first thing I thought of when I saw the blue birds was my little
aunt’s bedroom – and how perfect that piece would be for her – and what
A perfect gift for me to stitch for her……and semester break is
coming up —- three free weeks to stitch. That’s perfect too!!
It could be wonderful!!
As always – thank you for your informative site. I learn so much
and look forward to receiving my email from Needle & Thread
everyday!!
And thank you for the wonderful give-aways!!
Christie in Appleton, WI.
Since I need a magnifying lamp for my miniature embroidery, my favorite place to stitch is in the lounge and I normally listen to a radio station that plays classical music. My permanent stitching companion is my little dog, but other family members are welcome depending on the complexity of the stitching, sometimes talking causes mistakes, fortunately my hubby loves reading, so he is quite happy to just read at times.
Most of the time I like to have the TV on while I stitch. I do most of my stitching relaxing on top of my bed with a good movie. If the forest is particularly noisy that day, I will often just opt for the sounds of the birds and the breeze. Thanks for the chance at one of these kits, they are so beautiful!
I like to stitch in when it is quiet, but I also like to stitch with friends, we have a group who meets every Tuesday at out local needlework shop. I love Trish’s work and have purchased from her in the past, I am also a miniaturist and I make little wall-hangings and pillows for my dollhouses. Thank You for having this give away, Nancy
I have to have the TV on or watch my portable DVD player (if I am at work). If those are unavailable the radio is on. It seems when it is too quiet my mind wanders LOL. These are adorable designs. Thx for the chance to own one.
Hi Mary,
I love to do crafting anytime, anywhere I can, even in the kitchen while a cake is being baked in the oven.
Thanks for such a nice give away.
Huyen
While I would love to stitch out of doors in perfect weather, preferably by the side of a pristine mountain lake and with a background chorus of songbirds, actually I usually settle down fairly happily in the spare room, on the futon used for occasional guests, and with my stand, magnifier, bright light, and tools handy. Usually I have nothing else going on, but if the piece I’m working on doesn’t require too much concentration, I may listen to classical music on my ipod. Before he died recently, our cat often joined me for his next nap; I kept a pair of tweezers handy to remove his back fur from my work. (What is it about cat fur that sticks to everything?) Sometimes my husband also sits with me for a little while. It sounds tame, but it’s a very restorative tameness.
From previous comments, it appears a lot of us are the same. If I’m doing embroidery that I need to concentrate on, I want peace and quiet. But, ‘watching’ TV is also a good time. I also have a group of ladies that I stitch with and I take something easy so I can visit. Camping is also a great time to sit outside and do stitchery. The two items for the give away are awesome.
I don’t mind if the tv is on while I am doing my needlework. I just turn it to a lower audio level just enough so I can still hear it. I prefer doing my needlework while others are not around me, that is more distractiing than having the tv going.
I like silence in the background or maybe some music soothing to the soul. I’m able to then concentrate on my embroidery and focus better.
I love both the kits especially the blue birds. Thank you and Happy Holidays!!!!
I like to either listen to the radio or watch tv when I embroider. Years ago I had a great spot where I could look outside and watch the birds, but not at my current place.
Wow Mary…what a t-riffic give-a-way! Thanks to Trish and you both. I enjoy doing my embroidery work either watching t.v. or while my hubby plays his video games. I also do quite a bit of stitching while sitting at our vendor booth on the weekends. I sometimes am interupted, but I seem to get quite a bit done during those times. Thanks for the chance to win.
My best stitching is done where I have no distractions. Soft music in the background helps with concentration. Of course, the music has no singing. During summer, I enjoy sitting and stitching on the deck where I can hear the sounds of nature and enjoy the fresh air. My best thread painting is achieved in these environments.
I have books by Trish Burr and work hard to achieve what she teaches. I would love to have one of her miniature kits. Thread painting is one of my favorite techniques that I constantly work to perfect.
I work long hours during the week away from my husband. He loves to watch westerns and I love that it gives us many hours together each week if I share the time by stitching next to him. Our four cats are happy as can be to have us both stationary for them to use as warmers. Thanks to both Mary and Trish for so much information and many happy hours with a needle!
Hi Mary!
Thanks for the give away. It actually depends upon which project I am working on…if very detailed and involved, just with background music, if simple repetitive stitching, the tv and or conversation is good. Either way I enjoy stitching!!!! Hope you have a wonderful Christmas and I love your website. 🙂
When I am embroidering, I like listen TV. Yes listen, not watching ;-). But I prefer doing it around friends, while chating, with a cup of coffee, and some cakes. But when I can found time to stitch, I don’t wast it, So I am embroidering some time in car, when I have a long rad to do, or in waiting rooms.
I stitch with Jessica Fletcher, Jethro Gibbs, Ben Matlock, and Adrian Monk. I love watching these reruns while stitching as it allows me to concentrate on my stitching without mssing anything on the shows. The funny comes in when I realize I’ve missed scenes because I was concentrating on my stitching the first time I viewed the show.
I think these kits will help me with my Japanese embroidery without the commitment of a much larger project.
Thank you for this giveaway.
Happy Holidays.
I tend to stitch in front of the TV, if there’s anything on that I want to watch. Otherwise, I usually have an audiobook playing. I can’t stitch in silence. I enjoy stitching with friends or at EGA meetings, but I generally don’t get much done at those times. I’m too busy talking & listening!
I like both of Trish Burr’s miniatures – thanks for the opportunity to win one.
Happy holidays!
Mary in MN
Mostly I stitch by myself watching TV/DVR. I also love getting together with friends to stitch. My local shop in Minnesota is Stitchville USA and twice a month we have “stitch-ins”. We have another fun group that gets together every couple of months at a quilt shop. I’m also a member of the Needlework Guild of Minnesota, we have monthly stitch-ins, classes & an annual retreat.
Harry Potter audio books every time….I stitch slowly in the quiet moments and as the action speeds up I race thru – amazingly my stitching does stay OK
I find if I stitch in complete silence I lose concentration and the results certainly show in the finished piece, so hooray for Harry every time.
I might be a grandma but even we are allowed complete escapism now and again
I either watch TV or iTunes University when I stitch. I was taught that it is important to occasionally look up from your work and refocus to reduce eye strain. Not sure if it really is true but it works for me.
I prefer to stitch sitting by my large window, which looks out over a large yew tree, several venerable linden trees, and a few slender silver birches. I also like to listen either to music or to sermons/lectures/audio books. I like to have something to stimulate me artistically and intellectually while I stitch. Somehow, I can’t justify “only stitching” while I’ve been working on my PhD, but I can’t only work on my PhD without stitching!
Unless it’s the most simple of stitchery projects, I embroider in silence. If it’s mindless stitching, I listen to audiobooks, or the radio (The Moth is a favorite program).
I love to watch TV while I am stitching although I miss a lot by not actually looking at the screen. The hope is that I won’t be so likely to go and get snacks, actually be accomplishing something, and providing a lap for my two dogs and a cat to lay on. It’s a cozy time which I love and I LOVE stitching.
I love to sit in my chair by the fireplace and embroider while my husband watches his old movies. My chair is so special to me…it is full of memories: The chair from the nursery where I rocked and nursed my four children from birth, sat up nights with them when they were sick, comforted them when they were sad. It is a happy place and it is a peaceful and quiet place for me as I create beautiful pictures and hopefully happy memories for my friends and family.
I like to stitch in the Family Room while my husband and/or children watch TV. That way I can still be part of the family fun times, and still enjoy myself as I create something beautiful. During the commercials I can still be part of their conversations and show them my progress. My husband is very supportive of my stitching hobby and the children like when I make something for them.
I would love to win the beautiful Attic Pansies kit. It is lovely, as all of Tish’s work is.
As the Christmas season is coming fast, I like to sit in the living room, with my feet up in my chair, looking out at the Alaskan waterfront and stitch away. When the season changes, I listen to music on my computer, showtunes and other easy listening music and enjoy the peacefulness of seeing stitches work and the scenes appear.
I usually stitch while watching TV but also enjoy stitching while visiting with friends, stitching outside — I’ve been known to stitch just about anywhere!
I enjoy listening to the radio while I stitch
unless my husband is home. He loves to
watch me stitch so we talk while I stitch.
I am enjoying your articles. Thanks for
sharing!!!
Thanks, Mary! I prefer to sit in my studio quietly or listening to the radio while I embroider. [These days (because of the internet) I’m slightly addicted to wanting to know what’s going on in the world quite often during the day.] I have beautiful trees and sky out the window to keep me company, as I live in a rural setting.
I have a special corner when I am stitching that is all mine. I snuggle into a lounge chair, put my feet up, soft instrumental music in the background and I also face a window that overlooks the trees outside. I stitch alone and in my own world and just love it.
When stitching I love to be with my youngest daughter who also stitches and listen to audio books. We usually stitch together on the weekends with her cats either in her lap or mine and her dog on the couch watching out the window ready to give us a “barking update” on the newest rabbit, bird or dog who has come into his view.
Techiya
Mary, Thanks for the chance to win one of Trish’s pieces. I stitch when ever there is a few minuted available..Dr’s appointments, waiting for a meeting or the short time we have before we leave to go some where. I enjoy stitching with a group of friends, although that does not seem to happen as often as I would like. The majority of my stitching during the day is listing to audiobooks..Mysteries..and in the evening I sit with my husband watching TV.
When I stitch it’s usually at night. I prefer to listen to either spiritual music, audio books on the computer or the TV on with a movie playing that I’ve seen about a hundred times and have the scenes memorized so I don’t have to look.
When I get a chance to stitch during the day and the weather’s good, I like to stitch outdoors in swing on my front porch. I don’t get that opportunity very often.
This is such an outstanding give-away, Mary. Thanks to you and to Trish for the generosity!
Thanks for the give-away, Trish. I have been eyeing the little birdies one… I plan my evening TV watching just so I can stitch. An English murder mystery or mini-series (Downton!) is preferable, but an NCIS or Castle or Bones marathon is almost as acceptable.
Oh, I meant to thank Mary too! I hit submit too quickly…
I enjoy listening to my Christian radio station while I embroider.
I love those kits! Very pretty!
When I stitch, I like to have old movies on or re-runs of my favorite sit-coms like I Love Lucy. I just stitch and have the tv on for background noise and I get a lot done.
Jan B. in Florida
I can work on projects in any environment: TV, in the car, waiting rooms, etc. However, right now my favorite is with the radio on the Christmas music station. I pray alot while I do stitchery. It is peaceful.
I LOVE those little birds!
I listen to audiobooks – mostly mysteries.
I love these little kits. The fact that everything you need is included makes them easy to pack in the bag I take to my cemo treatments. I love to embroider while watching TV, outside while camping and to help pass the time at my 5hr. Cemo sessions.
Now that I finally finished our flagstone sitting areas in the shady front and sunny back, that’s where I enjoy embroidering. But if it’s raining (does that a lot in Washington state) or too hot, I’m inside with a TV for company preferably with a comfy rerun movie or a 60s black and white show I can just listen to. Thank both of you for the lovely giveaway!
Needlework and music are my ideal companions. And with an iPod that gives me the listening pleasure of the preselected sounds I most enjoy, I can stitch for hours. It is the time I can also concentrate on complicated patterns.
These minis are just my speed and the birds would be my fav.
I like to sit in a comfy chair with my two loving dogs by my side, the TV turned down very low, and a glass of wine so I can relax and unwind while I am stitching away.
Thank you for the opportunity Mary.
Oh, my! This would be so wonderfully gorgeous on our bay window wall where our dining table sits. We watch our bird friends come and go and feed and water them to hope they continue doing so.
I love to embroider in many situations, but usually with some background noise – either a TV program, some music, or outside with the birds and the breeze. Now that it’s winter, inside by the bay window or the patio French doors are the preferred spots.
Thanks, Mary, for all you do. I truly enjoy your site.
For myself,Icannotjust sit idly and watch t.v.,talk,etc. It helps me to focus more on whats going on around me if i’m got something in my hands.Right now,embroidery is my passion,I’m very into SMALL but detailed projects.I’ve entered,but yet to win ANYTHING on the internet! BUT you are a huge help to me,I read all your posts,but this my first time entering one of your giveaways,HERE’S HOPING!
When I am working on a project that has a lot of similar thread colors, I like to work outside on my porch in the natural light (but I live in South Dakota, so that’s not an option year round!). I also do a lot of stitching while watching (listening) to movies with my husband.
Thanks for the opportunity to win such lovely patterns, I love the pansies!
Merry Christmas to you & yours! diana in sioux falls
I usually do my needlework while listening to a book on CD. I drive around our county for my work and listen and stitch while on my lunch break. I also like to stitch while watching TV with my husband. I find that I listen and not watch much of the program but it is nice to be with my hubby.
When I’m stitching, I indulge in a variety of activities. Listening to music, watching T.V., listening to Audiobooks, spending time with friends, silence. I enjoy each and every one of these activites, with these caveats.
When listening to Audiobooks, I find that I need to pause the recording when I’m working something out with my stitching, otherwise my brain just turns my hearing off and I miss great chunks of the story, lol.
When I watch T.V., I prefer documentaries, otherwise I spend too much time looking up at the program.
When I stitch with friends, I can count on having to rip something out, almost every time. 🙂
I guess my favorite way of stitching is to be completely alone in a dark room, with only my stitching lamp for illumination, listening to soothing music; nothing with words, or even a discernable rhythm. That’s when I really become one with my project.
Karen H.
I stitch to the “Stitching movies” the director’s cut of Lord of the Rings. Believe it or not it is the standard stitching movie for all my friends too.
Embroidery is like therapy for me – its a getaway from TV, noise, stress. I embroider to escape; it doesnt take away my problems, just allows me to put them on the back burner for a short time. Then when I see my creation start to take form, it’s like magic at my fingertips, something that I can control in a very hectic life
I do wish I could embroider outside but I feel I will lose something or get something dirty, so I don’t. I embroider with the TV on and with my friends. But my favorite time is early in the morning when no one is awake and there is only the sound of the outside. It is so peaceful and I think the most productive time for me. I wish I could have more of these mornings.
Trish Burr and Mary Corbett–my inspiration!
Dear Mary. Your questions today bring up an old emotional conflict. I was taught at an early age that embroidering while others are present is discourteous. At the same time, many of us were also taught as little girls to avoid those dreaded “idle hands,” in consequence of which, to be doing “useful work”, e.g., ironing, mending, darning or knitting, in the presence of others, is not regarded as rude behavior. Alas, the joy of embroidering something like Trish Burr’s frivolous little birds cannot be classified as useful. Therefore, I am most happy to embroider only while listening–to music, the radio or TV– and then what a delight it is!
OOOOOOOOO, those bluebird & daisies make me drool! I have several venues for stitching; with friends, with soft music, with the news, etc. However, my favorite is to sit in my sunroom where the light is superb and enjoy the piece in my hands, placing love in every stitch, watching the many birds who play in the blue spruce tree in our backyard, or working mentally or emotionally through a problem. Ain’t life great!!!
I would dearly love to acquire one of Trish’s lovely kits! I have drooled over the photos in her shop.. and simply can’t choose just one. They are so so beautiful.
When I am embroidering, I prefer silence, or better yet outside sounds of birds etc. Background music or audiobooks are nice too. I love my 3 yr old granddaughter, but having her around when I embroider is nearly impossible. You didn’t ask, but having a cup of tea at my side is a given also.
These are so sweet! I do my best work when alone, with as few distractions as possible. However, stitching with a group of like-minded friends in a class/workshop, chatting and laughing is a wonderful experience, even if the quality of work does suffer!
I stitch mostly while listening to either music, I really like medieval and renaissance music, or most likely listening to books on tape. Jane Austen, the Brontes or the like. It is very relaxing and I enjoy thinking about the time that either the composers and singers lived, or being there with Jane and her many characters.
My favorite thing to hear while stitching is the cleaning ladies working away. Seriously music or tv watching is fine. Silence is golden though.
I would love to do the birdies in my mom’s memory. She recently passed at the age of 91. Bird watching was her favorite thing.
Merry Christmas!
I would like to embroider with my favourite songs on the background.while memories will be far away i do my favourite thing.
All of the above would be appropriate, but mostly I “listen” to TV or audiobooks. What doesn’t work for me are group sessions. I enjoy the group but get nothing done. I just can’t do the type of work I like without a magnifier and good light. Thank you and Trish Burr for offering these minature kits as prizes. Those birds are delightful!
I love to read almost as much as I love to embroider so working on a beautiful embroidery while listening to a great book is the best of both worlds. I especially like to listen to a book set or written in a period appropriate to the embroidery I am working. When I was making a traditional English smock, I listened to all of the Bronte sisters books as well as all of Jane Austen’s wonderful tales. Stitching with friends is a special pleasure. But since I am often more focused on the conversation than my stitching, I will work on something repetitive and simple like fillig in a background on a canvas piece.
Trish Burr’s work is breathtaking. I have almost all of her books and another on my Christmas wish list.
I love to watch tv while doing needlework. Lifetime is my favorite if it’s just me. If it’s my husband and I, I let him watch his junk tv (that I don’t like) and concentrate on my needlework. That way we both can be doing what we want but are still together.
I started needlework recently. It is very hard to find time for me to do this with a toddler. I prefer silence when I do embroidery or sewing. So usually I do it when my son is taking a nap. I love that bluebirds pattern. Thanks for arranging this giveaway. Wish you Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Anjana
Love those miniature kits!! And I NEED a Christmas gift!!!
I generally love any time/place I am able to fit in stitching. Probably the most common is watching tv with my husband in the evening — but I don’t really care much about the show. It is more about hanging around with him. When I am not at home with him, I sit by the window and listen to the radio (NPR, etc.) and enjoy what I “learn.” Most favorite is sitting around with a group of stitching buddies! I have so many fun friends!! A cup of tea at our elbows — and plenty of stories!! That is the best. I also really like stitching while a student in a class. To have that focus and concentration is a rare commodity. And a teacher to tell you what to do!! What about you, Mary?
They are both so lovely. The pansies are sweet and the little birds are just too adorable!
I am very flexible about what is going on around me when I embroider. I think I do prefer to have some sort of background noise, either the TV, music, audio book, or something of that sort. This is probably because I am usually surrounded by family and have just gotten used to the noise. I do find that if I am working on something that is particularly intricate, being in a quite place with natural light is best. Luckily I have two places where I can stitch. My family room and then a Florida room which has wonderful natural light as it is surrounded by 6 foot high windows on three sides.
Thanks again for providing us with such a wonderful giveaway opportunity.
I especially love the birds, and already try to convert birds I stitch to her style. I’d love to get her actual instructions. My sewing chair faces both the TV and windows onto the view of my yard & tiny lake. I count myself supremely blessed. TV I sew to is news, talk shows, and mostly c-span weekend book talks by authors. It’s addictive.
Mary, Those little dumpling bluebirds are precious! When I embroider, I have soft music playing. Sebastian, my friendly seal point “pushy” cat, cuddles next to me as I embroider. He watches my stitches closely and is attentive to any skeins that happen to fall off the table. Often he will fall asleep on my embroidery table enjoying the warmth of my magnifying lamp while covering the instructions. With a gentle push, he allows me to continue on my project.
Carolyn
Oh how I want one of these kits, having just acquired Trish Burr’s latest book Color Confidence in Embroidery. I love her little birds so much!
I watch television and movies while I embroider. I also chat with family who are often watching the movies with me, but not always. I have never been able to get the audiobook thing to work for me – though I would be a happy woman if I could figure out how to read and do fibery things at the same time.
Anyway, would love to win one of these kits – especially the birds and it wouldn’t go into anybody’s Christmas stocking except mine. 🙂
Anastasia McP in the Wilds of Rural Utah
Love those birds. I usually have some sports game on football or baseball either on the TV or radio. My mom always embroidered when we went fishing she would find a shady spot Dad would fish and my brother and I and the dog would usually be splashing around in the water. Happy memories.
I would love to win one of these! They are awesome! I listen to the TV when I am embroidering.
i just want to thank you for all that you share, yes i would LOVE to work on one of the kits from your give away, at the moment i’m working on a portrait combining embroidery and bead work—thank you so much.
haydee
Hi Mary,
I love to stitch with music on or silence. I really like Celtic or because I mainly stitch ecclesiatical items I like to listen to Orthodox or Monastic chant.
I would love to stitch something a little more lively. Thanks for this giveaway.
Mary,
Thank you for your blog. I like to stitch at every opportunity I get, so choosing an environment isn’t something that I think about.
I do usually have the TV on in the background at home.
Thank you!
Janice
I love the flowers. I stitch mostly watching TV. Well most of the time I’m not watching just listening. It keeps me company and doesn’t interrupt! No only that, when I look back on things I have stitched I can recall programmes I watched when I was stitching it.
I can’t stand to be idle, so while watching television, I like to have a needlework project in hand. In the warmer months, I love to sit on my deck and embroider or cross-stitch.
Trish Burr’s Miniature Kits Giveaway: I like to do needlework in a “nest” I make for myself out of pillows and blankets and lighting. Then I turn on my laptop and watch an action movie (RED, A Team, Sherlock Holmes). Just getting it ready is soothing.
Oh Mary, I was so hoping you’d do a give-away on these! I love the flowers, but the little birds make me smile. I can just see them shaking out dew drops from their feathers!
As to where I prefer to stitch, I love stitching outside in the quiet of nature, feeling a warm breeze on my face, good sunlight on my work . . . oh, it’s heaven on earth. More frequently, though, I’m stitching with my mother-in-law up at “the lake”, as we say here in Minnesota. I really enjoy that as well, as my mother-in-law is exactly what you hope for when you dream of married life – a good friend and confidante. On the other hand, Janet Noble’s dream scenario would be great, too. I so enjoy giggling at Wait, Wait.
I like to listen to movies, tv, music and audiobooks while stitch, depending upon the mood. Although I often take handwork with me for travel, I’ve never stitched outside. Found it to hard to get the light right.
My favourite thing to do while embroidering is listen to my husband read to me. We started this habit when he felt left out while I was embroidering and have spent many happy hours reading together since. If he isn’t available I have the television on. I find it distracting to embroider while chatting with friends.
Hello Mary,
The miniature kits are lovely! Those sweet little birds take me directly to the joy of nature! I prefer to stitch in calm and serene circumstances. If I am not in that framework when I begin, I am soon transported to serenity! I find stitching an extremely calming activity – I enjoy it tremendously! I can have some music or not…. my favourite spot to stitch is close to the window that overlooks the garden. Thank you for your website, Mary! Sincerely, Jannis
I love to watch–well, listen–to the television or listen to audio books when I’m doing needlework. It keeps me working on what I’m doing so that I’m not distracted. I love the Trish Burr miniature embroideries. My granddaughter is interested in crewel embroidery, and if I won one of the kits, I would use it to teach her from an excellent source.
Mary: not only do you take the time to share your knowledge with us but you give things away too.
Thank-you. I usually stitch in front of the TV – preferably with some British Comedy (I prefer the ones without curse words every two seconds) or a good drama, documentary or at this time of year Christmas movies – yeh.
Pauly
Sometimes I listen to a TV program from another room, or listen to music or have one of my cats sitting next to me watching–that can sometimes create problems, depending on the kitty. Mostly, I prefer silence–I embroider and my husband reads. (I would love to sit outside, but there are too many mosquitoes and it’s humid most of the time.)
I think these kits are just scrumptious and would love to be one of the winners. Those two little birds are so fluffy that one could almost hear them chirp. The flowers are lovely as well.
Thank you for the opportunity, Mary, and a Blessed Christmas to you!
Silence is golden when I embroider. I love to
ponder during those times.
My favourite memory of stitching is when we were travelling out in the countryside in Australia in our campervan and I would sit outside in glorious weather to stitch -mostly in the early mornings or evenings. Nowadays, I particularly like stitching with other embroidery friends as well as with audio books and my favourite music. Our embroidery guild also holds retreats and these precious days are also very special. Not only do we do our own particular projects but we also have ‘challenges’ which are very inspiring!
Oh, how nice is this game 🙂
When I stitch, I really need a sound – music or tv or audiobook ! – otherwise I feel alone…
I prefer to be in my house because here it is windy, I live near to the sea !
Hope my english is correct, I am french…
Kind regards
and fingers crossed !!!
Jennifer
Total peace and quiet is the best when I’m learning a new technique or concentrating on something that is a bit fiddly. Otherwise I love to listen to an audio book. It feels like a complete indulgence having a good narrator “read me a story” while I’m stitching.
My embroidery time is relaxed. Somewhat nostalgic. So I like having old tv shows on like “I Love Lucy”, ”Little House on the Prairie” or “Leave it to Beaver”.
Hi Mary,
I usually video chat with friends n tell them how fun it is, or watch a movie.
But mainly it’s yours how to videos that I watch n re-watch following and learning your moves. Thanks Mary.
I love to stitch on the back deck during the summer months, otherwise it’s the living room reclining chair with either TV, especially a Utah Jazz NBA game, or instrumental music on the stereo.
Thanks for the wonderful give-aways. Love Trish Burr’s designs. Pansies have always been a favorite flower since childhood, but the little bluebirds are oh so sweet.
Blessed Holiday Season to everyone!
Hi Mary, those Trish Burr books are delicious….especially the Bluebirds and Daisies. Re Question: I stitch my very best when I’m alone watching tv or in front of my window with natural light….I can concentrate more and stitch uninterrupted. Almost always, though I do love my stitching buddies, I will get in a conversation and there goes my concentration, thus my stitching suffers and I generally have to frog!! Thanks for your generosity in these give-aways…Trush Burr is wonderful….love her kits but have never had a minuature. Thanks for always inspiring our stitching lives!
Lindos bordados!!
Eu prefiro bordar em silêncio ou com uma música suave me acompanhando. Acho que assim consigo me concentrar melhor no meu trabalho e também pensar, pois acho que bordando penso em todos os assuntos que estão pendentes.
Feliz Natal e um Ano Nove cheio de realizações, bjs. Márcia
Aren’t those litle birds just lovely.
I sit in my nest with the TV on or music.Although I don’t see everything on the screenI can follow it well enough.
Please enter me.
Best wishes to you for Christmas and the New Year
Ann
I love Trish’s designs and would love to have one of her kits
I embroider with my family or friends around to chat with or if they are not around music is relaxing
Hi Mary,
Ooh what a gorgeous give-away! I think my preference is for some relaxing music while I stitch. Chopin nocturnes or Schubert impromptus are my current favourites. If my family are around then I can enjoy either nattering or companionable silence while I sew. Thanks for the chance to win such a lovely kit. Have a nice day.
Kathryn
I love to have the house all to myself, and watch old movies or Christmas shows while I do my needlework. Early mornings are my favorite time of day to do my stitching.
Thanks for this wonderful giveaway . They are gorgeous kits. Merry Christmas to you
When I do embroidery, I usually find a quiet secluded area of the house. I have worked outside a few times, but I find the traffic and neighbors are very distracting. Embroidery helps me to find solace from toil and cares of my daily life. Babysitting a 3 year old and a 5 month old in addition to taking care of my ninety year old mother creates a desperate need for a quiet, even though short, respite. Embroidery provides that. The kits are loverly.
Beautiful little kits. Would love to win one. I stitch in the evenings while the TV is on – notice I didn’t say I was watching TV :).
When embroidering I will some times listed to the TV but I prefer to have soft music. When really concentrating on certain spots the sound of silence in the background is great. My brain is easily distracted and I hate ripping out my embroidery.
I want those little birds like I’ve not wanted anything in a long time! I am addicted to Books on tape/or CD while I work. I have a hard time stitching with others or while watching TV- I feel like I need to focus when I stitch. Depending on how focused I need to be depends on what I can listen to as well. If it’s easy” mindless” stitching, it can be anything. I worked my way through all the Russian classics, much of the Greek stuff I knew I’d never read. If it’s a project needing more depth of focus,then it’s something light-Eliz Peters Amelia Peabody comes to mind. Stuff in the middle gets whatever I’m into. Lots of English history, mysteries etc.
Those birds look like a light course of Amelia at least till I get the hang of it.
Bette
I would love to have these kits!!! An answer to your question, well I like it quiet , because I pray a lot while stitching, mostly for whom ever the project is for or things in general. Of course when hubby is in the room he has the radio going. Seems like I hardly ever do things for myself, it’s always for others, Not complaining, I love to see the look on their faces when they get it. Not many do any kind of needle work in this area. I love your site thank you.
Hi Mary. I am deaf so I usually just sit in silence while I work. It has a meditative effect on me, all the stresses of the day and the world melt away. I cherish the peaceful times I get when I do my needlework.
I can embroider anywhere. I usually do it at night while the TV is on or in the afternoon when my husband is out golfing. If it’s in the afternoon I sit in the silence and get lost in the beauty of what I’m doing. I’m thrilled about this give-away because I just bought her book on Needle Painting, whose title I got from your blog, and have been trying to locate some fabric to practice on—what a thrill to have an actual kit to use.
I like to either have music on, or have the television on. Mostly I listen to the tv, but being able to look up from time to time and refocus my eyes keeps them from getting tired.
Having people chatting or listening to an audio book would be too distracting for me, I think.
It’s been awhile since I had time to stitch; however, when I do, it’s sitting with my hubby in front of the TV. Not the best but I get to spend time with him AND my stitching!
Hi Mary,
What is on in the background when I stitch? Sometimes the TV (more listening than watching), sometimes the radio or a CD and sometimes nothing, just listening to the birds. All depends on the mood of the moment.
Lovely kits – fingers crossed.
Trish (Whangarei, NZ)
I like to do my needlepoint when I am in meetings. That way I am both listening and doing something so I don’t get fidgety.
I prefer to have the TV on so that I can get my hands completely engrossed in the calm rhythm of stitching while my mind enjoys the patter of the TV program. If I were to have friends over I would feel I was being rude if I stitched at the same time as I don’t have local stitching friends. (Unfortunately – wish I did!)
I’d love to have the little birds. Trish’s birds are just the cutest ever. As to what I have going on around me when I stitch, if it’s really serious and complicated stitching I need quiet. If it’s so-so in terms of difficulty, I usually have the TV going with a video of something I’m so familiar with that I don’t have to pay attention. It’s just friendly noise. Almost never do I work on stitching in company. People alway want to talk and that requires answering. There’s no telling what I would say or stitch in that case. Just knitting at shawl ministry, I often have less done when I leave than when I started – reverse knitting, you know!
Hi Mary
These kits look fantastic and winning one would be a great ‘Kris Kringle’ gift (to myself). When I embroider I like absolute silence! This enables me to concentrate and focus purely on embroidery which is my passion.
Mary, my favorite place to stitch is in my big comfy chair, with a fire going, something yummy simmering on the stove. But it usually happens whenever and wherever I can find the time. This week it’s been in the living room while visiting with my sister. I love your posts. Thanks so much for sharing so generously!
Hi Mary,
Aren’t Trish’s designs beautiful?
When the puppy and I are embroidering easy things, I like to listen to audiobooks or stitch with family and friends. If the embroidery requires concentration, then music or the background sounds from the outside world are the only options. Having said all that, embroidering with DH and the cricket on the TV is also great. There are so many replays in the cricket and it goes so slowly that you never miss anything and the commentary is very soothing….
Thanks to both you and Trish for making this give away possible.
Jenny
These are very beautiful kits. I’d love to work one of them. Where I sit to work depends on the procedure I’m undertaking. Simple projects can go anywhere: with me to my stitching groups, in front of the TV (unless it’s an exciting Packer game), maybe even a car show with my husband. Probably the only exception, would be an audible tape; I enjoy them, but I’ve tried and wound up spending more time rewinding the tape than stitching or hearing the narrative. For complex designs, difficult counting or unfamiliar techniques, I’d cut most of those back for the sake of concentration on the project. These kits would probably land in the quiet times, at least initially, until I reached a comfort level.
I have the TV on or music. I love the Attic Panies so beautiful.
I tried to buy these kits as soon as I received you news letter, but alas it was already too late. I would really love one as I have a lovey wood musical box my mother bought for me and I haven’t been able to find the right thing to put on it, one of these would be just perfect. I usually listen to the internet radio while I am stitching, I don’t watch TV a lot but the radio in the background is like having a companion who doesn’t intrude.
I love to sit in our conservatory where I can hear the birds in the garden, if the weather permits we sit outside, my husband and I, then I am so at peace stitching. On cold winter evenings we sit in the lounge, he with his reading and me with my stitchery!! The kits look absolutely lovely, to own one would be the icing on the cake!!
Thank you, Mary, for another Great Giveaway!While stitching, I prefer silence.
Please enter me in the give away for a Trish Burr kit. I do most of my embroidery in the evening while my family is watching tv. I leave the good seats for them and sit where I can’t see the tv. They (all guys) mostly watch sports and shows I am not particularly interested in. However it is amazing how well you can follow some shows without ever looking at the screen. On the other hand I don’t see how anyone can embroider while watching Downton Abbey. I get so caught up in the costumes and home(castle) decor that I forget to stitch!
TV and audio-books are right out! They are simply too distracting. (And, honestly, I don’t really like most of what’s on TV anyway.) For the rest – depends on the type of embroidery! If it’s something that needs concentration, silence or at most instrumental music. Outdoors is great because natural light is great to stitch by, but the neighbors can’t be running their boom-boxes! People are problematic – if it’s relatives or visitors, no – I either get distracted by the conversation and ignore/mess up my stitching, or pay attention to my stitching and ignore my guests, which is rude. Stitching with other embroiderers would probably be fine.
Mary,
My mom and I love to embroider and one of our most favorite things to do while stitching is watch our all time favorite movie, Jane Eyre’s Pride and Predjudice we watch it every year and it has become and amazing bonding expeirience for her and I. We have been having so much fun and everytime we are starting a new embroider project her and I will put on another movie from that time era and just have a blast. I have not been embroidering for very long and my mom and I have not had much time to spend together due to her homeschooling my younger brothers, so when we do get together and watch old movies it just brings us closer together and our bond becomes stronger. It has become one of my most favorite things to do now and I have been treasuring every moment of it. Being able to spend time with my mom and watch our favorite Jane Eyre movies is truly a blessing.
Mary: ninety percent of my stitching is done after dinner at night. I love to know that duties are finished for the day and the night is mine to work on what I like…for as long as I like. I rarely go to bed before midnight. I have tv down low as background noise and set myself goals to reach before bedtime.
I also love to stitch when there is a five day test match of cricket between Australia and whoever…..I can listen to the commentary and just look up if someone is OUT….these days account for the other ten percent.
I have only just found your site and LOVE IT…AMAZING. Thank You.
I usually stitch with my husband watching TV, so listen to it the most. But in the summer and warmer fall or spring days, sitting on the porch with only nature sounds or my Ipod!
I most enjoy sitting at a table to embroider with a friend. Sometimes we chat, but sometimes we are silent. Thanks so much for the opportunity to win one of Trish Burr’s lovely kits.
Rebecca
Depends on what I am stitching–some things require lots of concentration and I want quiet. Mostly I stitch in the evening after work so I listen to the TV. Once I’m retired (soon) I look forward to more stitching with audio books!
I enjoy working next to a picture window that has a view of birds at a feeder, and the tevevision is on for background noise.
I prefer soft music in the background and no talking (it’s my time to just let my mind wander)
Bonjour Mary, Another fantastic give-away, and just before Christmas Season, I love to stitch when it is quiet around me, I need to concentrate also, summer time outdoors is great, I have a special place under a large tree it is pure bliss then, we have our wonderful cold winters what better time to relax and play. Thank you Mary and have a great Christmas Season.
France
I usually listen to the radio (NPR) during the day and TV in the evening. Sometimes, I like silence, but my cat doesn’t; she’s used to some sound on all the time. Outside is a wonderful place to stitch, but I’ve lost so many needles between the boards of my deck, that I don’t do that any more.
I prefer to either stitch with silence or with a favourite dvd on.In my fav chair or weather permitting, out on the patio .
Thanks for the chance to win one of these gorgeous kits.
Regards
Phillipa in NZ
I enjoy a “mix” of activities around me during my embroidery time. Sometimes it’s classical or meditative music, at other times I chat w friends on the phone or family members. Often I enjoy a TV show or movie. It is really convenient to watch the show via internet after the original ‘air’ date. That way I can pause it when I need all my concentration for directions or elements of embroidery.
Mary, Mary, Mary…….. you know we out here are all stitchaholics and yet you persevere. You show us unbelievably beautiful embroidery photos of your own work and then tempt us to join you in this addiction by offering to give away all sorts of goodies. This time the sweetest little kits from the best needlepainter ever. (I had to buy her books after you tempted us with that give away). Now, here we go again! I would love to needle away the time listening to classic music while watching this kit come to life. xoxo, mp
I do alot of my work in the car on road trips, my husband calls me “Miss Daisy”. Also never leave home with out a project in my purse. It does fill in time while sitting in waiting rooms and it is surprising how much you get done even with strangers asking dozens of questions..
I LOVE TO STITCH ALSO. I LEAVE THE T.V. OFF AND ALL IS QUIET. STITCHING BRINGS ME AN INNER PEACE. IN THE SUMMER I WORK ON MY PORCH WHERE IT IS ALSO QUIET. WORKING ON MY PROJECTS MAKES ME FEEL RELAXED. I HAVE BEEN GIVING MY TIME TO AT A SENIORS HOME. WE PLAY MUSIC OF DAYS GONE BY WHILE WE EMBROIDER. WE HAVE LEARNT A LOT TOGETHER AND WITH YOUR E-MAILS AND PICTURES IT MAKES LEARNING FUN AND EASY. THIS ONE WOULD BE FOR ME THOUGH. I WOULD LIKE TO RELAX WITH A COZY BLANKET AND EMBROIDER THOSE LITTLE BIRDS THAT REMIND ME OF SPRING. WHICH I AM LIIKING FORWARD TO.
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND THE BEST WISHES FOR A WONDERFUL NEW YEAR AND LOTS OF NEW PROJECTS.
I like to stitch in my husband’s company while he watches sports on tv, or else in my sewing room with the radio on. It would also be lovely to work on little projects like these while sitting on the back porch. I will have to order the pansies for my sister after the holidays, she will love them as much as I will the bluebirds! Thanks so much for your lessons and reviews, I am learning so much.
Hi Mary, would love love this one. I like either music or silence when working. Living in Hawaii we have many windows in the house for air flow so I see the shadows of the sun, hear the birds, and take my breaks by stepping outside just to stretch.
The sunlight is the best light but for white on white work it has to be indirect.
All the best, Jacquelin
Mary,what a lovely giveaway! I love to stitch just about anywhere, anytime. But I do have a few favorite times and places. At the end of the day sitting on the couch next to my husband while he watches TV (and sometimes I notice he is sneaking a peek at what I am doing). I know he is proud of what I do because he has helped me frame a few pieces. I also enjoy sitting out on our deck weather permitting, stitching and enjoying a fine glass of wine.
thanks.
My favorite way to stitch when I have the chance is sitting on the couch with my knees tucked up under a fleece throw. On my right in the middle of the couch, the basset hound is curled beside me, and my daughter sits on the other end writing her fan fiction on Wattpad. Ideally, my husband sits in his chair at the far end of the Vermont sled coffee table reading newspapers or the New Yorker while we all pay scant attention to the college football or basketball (depending on the season)game playing on tv.
I’m especially interested in one of these miniatures to stitch for my mom. She has been caring for my dad who has slowly succumbed to a vascular dementia. She loves birds of all kinds, and I would like (should I win one of these) to stitch it for her as a memorial after his passing (which we expect any day). I don’t mean to be maudlin or especially emotional about this response, but the birds are so cheerful and satisfying to look at! They are just the kind of thing she would love.
Thanks for your wonderful newsletter and for this opportunity
My favorite way to stitch is in my weekly sessions with my dear friend Willie. We laugh, talk, stitch and every little bit get up and shake our booties to keep the blood flowing. It’s a nourishing experience that inspires us to be creative and renews the bonds of a deep and expanding friendship. At home I stitch daily with classical music during the day and television at night. Sometimes late at night I love to stitch in silence enjoying the creative process and my wonderful life.
Trish Burr is a wonderful artist! I have her Dogwood flowers in my “To-Do” stash. Her birds are inspirational and would absolutely love to have one of these precious bird kits.
I am retired and have many moments to stitch. It is my love and I prefer to sit outside and listen to the birds sing. I live on the edge of a woods near the Smokies in TN so It is an ideal spot to while away the hours. When darkness comes I end up inside listening to the TV and continue my stitching.
I hear a little bird calling to me right now…PICK ME – PICK ME!
I really love to get your newsletters. Your illustrations of stitches is fabulous. I have learned much from them. Keep up the wonderful work.
Thanks for the opportunity to compete for this precious treasure.
Sharry Johnson
What lovely kits you are offering. I love The designs. I often watch TV while stithing thought I don’t see a whole lot of the show. My favorite time is stitching with friends. A group of us meet each week to stitch and gab, and it’s such fun seeing what everyone is working on. Thank you for your wonderful columns with so much info and ideas.
Hello Mary!! I like to listen to audiobooks while stitching but most especially, in the nice weather, I like to stitch outside on my enclosed porch and watch the birds bathe and eat.
I plan to join the local embroidery guild this coming year and then will likely stitch with friends. I do have one other local stitcher I get together with at times.
I love your site!! Thank you, Maire Courtney
I really enjoy to stitch anywhere when I have some spare time, but mostly I enjoy sitting in my special chair, beside the large glass doors where the light is good and I can from time to time look out at the sea, enjoying the boats and seeing the people walking their dogs close to the sea. I am deaf so the noise of the TV going which my husband enjoys does not really disturb me as I immerse myself in the rhythm of the stitches and relax.
Elisabeth Beachen
I love to sit in a comfy chair with a needlework system 4 floor stand using evertite frames, a millenium stand in the corner with a goldwork piece that is almost completed, a couple of thread cabinets that are filled with the complete DMC and Soie d’Alger thread lines, gazing from the balcony of a condo on Maui. Of course, my family is there too….
Oldies but goodies! While my sweetheart is downstairs working on his decoy carving I am in my sewing room at my needlework stand. We show each other our progress at the end of the day. The music wafting up from his workshop brings back memories that I love to drift over. Like an audio scrapbook of days past.
Dear Mary ~
What a wonderful gift you’re making. It’s so like you – generous as can be. I like to do my stitching while listening to music – the TV is too much of a distraction – and especially when I’m with my stitching group of friends. The conversation, watching each other’s projects take shape, and just being able to relax with friends make it a very nice environment for stitching. Also, I’ve always wanted to learn needlepainting, and have a perfect friend to help me learn. One of your kits would be a wonderful way to do that.
Thanks
Melissa
I usually have music or a TV on (someone else watches; I listen)while stitching. It serves as a timer for me.
Mary and Trish, Thank you for the great give away. While I’m embroidering, I usually have my computer playing a DVD. Favorites are anything Jane Austen, Downton Abbey and a few others. When the DVD’s have been watched a hundred times, it’s over to Librivox to listen to the classical literature the kids are reading for school, getting two jobs done at once. It’s the favorite part of the day, when everyone is in bed and I can get some stitching done while listening to my favorite stories a hundred times over.
I like to knit while watching TV, but embroidery takes more concentration for me. I prefer silence and solitude.
Hi Mary, it depends what kind of embroidery I’m doing. If it’s something repetitive I’ll watch TV. If I’m doing close work then I’ll listen to an audiobook. It gives me a chance to catch up on two passions at the same time.
Mary: I was born and raised in England and as a young girl growing up in the 1950s I was taught to knit, sew and embroider by my mother. We also were taught at school learning how to do cross stitches on gingham! At home during the day we listened to the BBC radio. When I embroider today, I listen to BBC Radio 4 on my computer. They have plays, drama, radio sit-coms, music….everything I like. I find watching TV too distracting, but listening to radio makes my embroidery time most enjoyable. Trish Burr’s designs are exquisite and I would love to win one! Thank you Mary and Trish.
I have 2 preferences. In the late spring and summer, I like to sit outside and just listen to nature while stitching.
In the late fall and winter, I use that time to catch up on audio books.
But if having to choose one, It would be outside. Nothing can compare to sights and sounds.
Mary in Oregon
Hi Mary,
Most of the time, I like to have the TV or a movie on, though I’ve stitched in the car to music, to quiet, to kids crying, as well as having stitched outdoors while the rest of my family fished or boating, and even on camping trips. I figure you (I) can stitch most anywhere!!! (Even in the hospital!)
I have wanted to try one of Trish’s patterns for so long now and one of these kits would be a great introduction to needle painting! I hope I win!!!
Thanks again,
Cindy J.
I would love one of these!
I used to like embroidering while watching TV, but since I got brave enough to join a sewing group, I really enjoy stitching when I’m there. I’m usually the only embroiderer, but I really like seeing them sew up their projects. Because its sewing rather than embroidery they usually leave with mostly finished projects at the end of the evening which really inspires me to push through my embroidery so I can get that satisfaction too.
At home I still end up stitching to the tv, which lets me sit snuggled up to my darling other half. Some of my favorite afternoons have been watching tv stitching while he paints beside me.
I prefer to have either the TV or music on softly in the background while I stitch. As for being inside or out, the house that we are renting here in Mexico has an outside livingroom (one of the long walls is completely open to the back patio area, no wall, just 5, 8 foot archways, so I have the beauty of the outdoors all day long.
I love to listen to audiobooks while I stitch. Love to read and love to stitch so an audiobook is the perfect solution. I also enjoy watching tv with the family while I stitch. I have tried to stitch outside on my front porch the lighting is great but it is just not as comfortable as sitting in my recliner.
I think these sweet kits would be perfect for a first project using this technique. I have Trish’s etsy shop listed as one of my favorites so I will see when she adds them to her shop in January. She may need to add lots of kits, judging by how many comments you have here!
Deb
I’m sort of a “solitary stitcher” and like to set up where I’m surrounded by things I enjoy. (I also can create quite a mess so I need a dedicated space!) My background music comes from my favorite classical radio station. Trish Burr’s designs are gorgeous – making time to stitch one of her miniatures would be a pleasure!
they are just so nice so exquisite , not sure that I could do them justice, I would love to attempt to do them, as I am only a beginner. But would love them in my home. I do get to do embroidery at home and also a little when I am on night duty,lots of interruptions there of course.
I love stitching to music too, sometimes to Resphigi’s “The Birds.” We have many birds here in southern Arizona. A pair of quail make their home behind our house, and I’ve watched them raise several batches of babies, from little purr balls through teenagers up to maturity. I also love needle painting, and have a little experience in it. So I’d love to do Trish’s little bird.
What a wonderful giveaway.
That depends entirely on what I am embroidering. If it is casual stuff, I can do it in front of the tv or while conversing with others. If it is more complicated I actually prefer silence or some low lvl soft music that does not take up attention when I embroider.
Tania
I personally love to stitch whilst listening to music so I can sing along. My cats and husband prefer me to listen to an audiobook. I also stitch small things in the vending whilst watching tv. Either way stitching Ms Burrs designs would be great fun. I think my cats would prefer me to stitch the birds but I like the flowers too.
I like to listen to books on tape while I stitch, unless I am stitching with friends. That way I get to enjoy two of my favorite pastimes at once.
While I am embroidering…I am happy, first of all, and probably on the couch, near the window, during the day so I can have great natural light. I do like the television on sometimes, but I can’t say I am paying much attention to it. My peaceful concentration is directed at the project, and I am savoring the experience. I have done this long enough to not be worried about getting something wrong, but rather, just enjoy sitting and working on something that intrigues me. It is a happy endeavor.
These are such beautiful kits–I tried to buy one after you reviewed, it but they were already gone. 🙁 Maybe after christmas!
Anyway, I like to embroider either while chatting with my friends or listening to music (or both!). My friends are all crafters of some sort too, so we sit around my living room and talk while working on our latest projects.
When I am stitching,I prefer some soft music, usually classical or instrumental. I don’t like t watch TV and hear a bunch of people talking.
I stitch while I’m “watching” TV with my husband. It’s mostly because I like being in the same room as him – even after 40 years of marriage. Those little birds are adorable, and I dearly and purely hope a kit makes its way to my home. Thank-you for offering this giveaway. Hugs, Diane
I generally like to stitch with my favorite music on and just take my mind away with my stitching. I do enjoy sitting outside in my outdoor area however at times this is not a great idea as the lorikeets come in large numbers to feed on the flowers on the big tree I sit under – the flowers last quite a while… I do enjoy stitching with friends but that has to be some stitching I don’t need to concentrate on otherwise I will end up with too much reverse stitching. Basically I will stitch anywhere I can! Thanks for the opportunity to win one of Trish’s delightful little kits
I love to embroider in silence so that I can hear the birds singing outside and have chance to dream many a happy dream. Also embroidering with friends is equally pleasurable especially as we sit around each others homes and tell a yarn or two as we stitch. To be embroidering one of Trish Burr’s miniatures in these circumstances would be heaven itself.
Embroidering flowers is my passion. Pansies are one of my favorites.
As a little girl my mother and aunt very patiently taught me how to embroider.
Today I enjoy embroidering while listening to music, because it gives me a chance to think about them and remember all of the special times I shared with them
Oh how I would love to win one of these mini kits. My favorite thing to do while doing my handwork is to have the television on and watch Hallmark movies. Next in line is to be with friends and chit chat. I love embroidery, applique, cross-stitch, any kind of handwork is my favorite pasttime. My grandmother taught me to appreciate handwork and I am now teaching my granddaughter as well.
I like to have music playing when I am doing embroidery. I like different kinds, but mostly classical. I like to be out on the patio in the warm sunshine and wearing my ear buds. I also love to have a fresh cup of steaming coffee. That is my way of relaxing. Makes all my troubles melt away…
Hi Mary, I always look forward to your posts. I especially enjoyed the advice on what to do when the thread skein gets tangles, something that happens to me frequently. I guess I usually stitch with the tv on, although I don’t pay much attention to it. I especially like to stitch through football games because there is so much time between plays.
I love Trish Burr’s designs and own several of her books. These mini designs are fabulous and I’d be delighted to win one. I really prefer to stitch in silence but usually stitch when my husband has the news on. Here’s hoping I’m a lucky winner. SC
I have a set of cd’s with beautiful music from Thailand. I love listening to them while I am stitching, weaving, or knitting. It is almost like meditation and I can listen to them over and over with out getting tired of them
I like to listen to podcasts. Sometimes I watch interesting videos, but then I don’t make much progress. I’d *love* one of these kids!
For some reason I feel like I need to have something else going on around me while I stitch. Usually it is the TV. I’m multitasking:) I would love to do the birds for my mom who has always loved birds.
I like to work alone while listenting to PBS on TV. I work in the evenings, when I am home. These kits are wonderful!
Where I do needlework is really not the question. It’s where don’t I do needle work.
I work on my projects with my husband while he watches TV, I do some while listining to audio books or music or with friends. I carry little projects in my purse so I can pull it out anywhere I have to sit or wait for a while (sometimes even in line while Christmas shopping)
Much as I like pansies, I think I’m in love with the bluebirds. Too cute!
I know a new crafter who`d love the bird kit
My favorite is with the TV on “watching” football. It’s only background noise to me but the spouse enjoys it so I am there for the stitching. Have a blessed Christmas!
I usually have the television on when I’m working. More than likely Law & Order (any version), NCIS or Big Bang Theory. I’ve probably seen every L&O and NCIS ever made so it’s not too distracting.
Or if there’s a Steven Seagal marathon I’m golden as there’s nothing better than a good cheesy Steven Seagal movie to pass the time…lol
I like to stitch while watching TV especially when my husband is watching golf or football or hockey.
Those little birds need to go for a car ride with me. One of my favorite things to do while riding in the car with my hubby is to embroidery. I also enjoy stitching while watching TV and I find it so relaxing. These kits look lovely! Thanks for allowing me to comment. Sue
Mary – first, thank you for such wonderful information and articles from which I have learned so very much (no, I’m not kissing up to get the prize :-). I was recently perusing Trish’s site, drooling over what I want to buy, but alas, it is Christmas and I’ve nothing left to spend on myself (and the IRS has been nagging me – no joke!). I love these little mini kits and would so love to win one. And the best part is that you will work the kit for the winners! Right? You said that, right? Wait, I thought you did…….
Well! Now this a fun one! Being in Southern California it’s very tempting to stitch outside, but I never do for fear of accidental soilage or a stray breeze blowing my threads away! I never stitch with the TV on – don’t really like it anyway – but an audiobook or silence are my usual companions. If there were someone with me while I was stitching, I would like sharing time with a fellow embroiderer or with someone who understands the process when I need to really focus on something.
I generally stitch while watching TV with my husband. I don’t really like just sitting and watching and he doesn’t like what I watch. So it is a good compromise, it doesn’t matter that I pay little attention to the TV and we get to spend our evenings together doing what we both want.
Mary,
This is the first time I’ve joined in on one of your give-aways. I just couldn’t resist responding to your question; so here goes. I like to stitch during a quiet time with some light background noise, whether music, NPR’s “all things considered,” or a favorite TV show; or as my husband drives us on a long road trip. However, what ever the situation, stitching always represents to me two things: a time to relax, and a time to be creative. Both contribute to my well being and growth. Thanks for the opportunity for me to recognize and put into words just how important stitching is to me.
No silence for me…seems I am usually in the presence of the family, with chattering and TV on in the background…usually sports whether football, basketball, or baseball.
Thank you for bringing Trish Burr to our attention! What an artist…I grabbed an orange breasted sunbird pattern…and now I think the little bee eater wants to come keep him company…beautiful work, and the patterns are first class.
I like to listen to audiobooks when I embroider or embroider with friends at my guild.
I bought one of Trish’s other kits recently and was so impressed with the professional presentation of the kit and how quickly it arrived in the post, all the way to Australia!
When I’m stitching it’s usually at night when the children are in bed, so I really, really appreciate the quiet. I do often play some quiet music or listen to a pre recorded sermon where I can listen without being interrupeted (on a good night!)
I love to sit outside and embroider if I can. I love the sounds of nature. My second favorite place to stitch is in my sewing room.
Hi Mary!
Love those birds!!! I enjoy stitching when I am in a Jane Austen type mood…so I’ll flip on the telly and pop in a movie. Emma, Pride & Prejudice, and stitch away, giggling at the anticsof the characters. I also love to stitch along with a dear friend of mine who enjoys embroidery as much as I do and doesn’t get offended if I don’t look at her while we talk!! 🙂
Great give away!!! Many thanks to you and Ms. Burr.
Blessings,
Jen in Oregon
Hi Mary,
I am mostly stitching while watching ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ or ‘King of Queens’. Something to laugh to while stitching. I live a bit out in the country so mostly its just me and my dog, Nina and my cat named, Bailey. Though I have to fight a bit with the cat because he likes to sit ontop of my stitching hand. I think he’s a bit jealous! lol. Love your website.
I like to stitch almost anywhere but normally stitch in front of the TV, I don’t watch so much as listen to it. Trish Burrs’ kits are incredible I would love to give needle painting a try. Hope that you have a wonderful holiday season.
I can embroider just about anywhere because I tend to “tune out” what is around me! Not too good for conversation! I wold love to give this to my neighbor who wants to learn embroidery
Whilst I love sitting around stitching in my patchwork groups, I find I do more talking than stitching, so I am better off in front of the TV watching an exciting DVD – something where my stitching will speed up as the tension in the movie increases. Chick flicks are no good for this – I need a good spy story or a murderous rampage to bring out the best in me!!!
I prefer to have an audio book going when I am doing any kind of needlework, of course, sometimes I have to pause it so I can figure out what I am suppose to be doing!
Oh Mary! When I’m emboridering I love to have silence with only the birds singing in our backyard. The silence is best when stitching a crewel embroidery design because when my needle goes in and out of the twill fabric it makes a sound like no other. The drum echo vibrations makes me feel connected to stitchers through the ages It’s the sound of loving to hand embroider!
Thank you for offering the reward of Trish Burr’s beautiful kits. Celeste
I watch tv when embroidering, or listen to music and even talk with friends.
Mary
I like the silence, so that when I do “tune-in”, I hear nature – because nature sounds are what surrounds me in my rural environment.
My 3 cats also surround me and will alert me if anyone is coming – they lift up their heads and “look” in the direction of the noise. Of course I am very aware of them as a mother is of her “children!
The kit is stunning – thank you for this generous opportunity!
Funny- One of my favorite times is when the work day is done, dinner is over and its time to turn off our brains for a while. My husband and I like to sit together at the end of the day and “watch” TV. I consider myself blessed because I am very near sighted; in order to see my handwork I have to take off my glasses. Therefore, I cannot see the TV when we sit together to “watch”. Dear Hubby (DH) cannot see the TV unless he has his glasses on. But he is stubborn and often “forgets” his glasses. He will reach for the Times Magazine or National Geographic next to his chair to read while the TV show is on. So its funny to picture us both “watching” TV together at the end of the day – because that is usually what we are not doing!
I like to have additional stimulation while I’m crafting. This may include TV, or listening to a podcast (I’m partial to either CBC’s “Quirks and Quarks” or “Ideas”), chatting with friends, or even playing slow paced computer games.
I love to listen to music while I embroider. I ussually listen to contemporaty classical which I find very soothing.
please do not sent the follow up comments. sharon barrea
Hi Mary,
I like to stitch with music playing, or with friends (stitching or not!) the most. The music keeps me relaxed (so I don’t tense up too much when stitching), and friends are just all kinds of fun!
Bonnie D. in VA
During winter and on cold spring and fall nights I sit on my favorite chair, and loose myself in my stitching while music is playing quietly in the background. In summer and on warmer days during the spring and fall months I prefer to sit outdoors in our back yard under our gazebo and listen to the water tumble down from the waterfalls in our fish pond while I stitch. It is truly tranquil and I find that I have done some of my best work there.
Hello,
If the weather is good I DO enjoy sitting outside in my backyard at our picnic table but I also really enjoy stitching at my friend Joanne’s house.
When we’re traveling by plane or car I enjoy stitching listening to audio books.
Thank you for this opportunity. The kits are lovely. Can’t wait!!!
I listen to music or have a tv show on in the background. Sometimes my daughter and I will talk while we both embroider.
If my husband watches sports I hang out in the living room and embroider, too. Since there is no hockey this year, though, there is not much of that.
I love to embroidery while watching tv with my DH! It gives me something to do with my hands while being creative and still be in the same room with him!
I often stitch in the living room with my husband at home, so the television is generally on in the background. If it’s football or something else I’m not interested in, I’ll often listen to books or music on my iPod. When I’m alone, my background may be a classic movie, classical music, or one of my audiobooks. I’d love to stitch outdoors, but the light in my stitching spot is much better. I settle for opening windows when the weather allows. With the blinds open, I generally have a nice view of the deer in our backyard, too.
Hello Mary, I would love to sew all day given the chance, but as to where or when I enjoy it most would be in my embroidery group with friends having music playing softly in the background, sharing tears and laughter of what is going on in our lives at the time, having a cup of tea and generally sharing all the inspiration, advice and ideas and/or news of any new embroidery supplies from our group teacher. before we all go our separate ways till next week.
Thank you for your generous offer, Compliments of the Season to you and your family.
This time of the year I like to stitch or do applique quilt blocks on Sundays while my husband is watching football. In Spring, summer or fall as long as its not too hot/cold I like to sit out front and stitch. I live right on a nice creek with ducks, geese and blue herons around. It really is quite relaxing. In the winter if its snowing my favorite place to be is at my sewing table in front of the window looking out. Let it snow, snow, snow. Thank you for such a lovely give away and a Merry Christmas & prosperous
Personally I love to embroider when it is quiet. I seem to be able to really focus on what I am doing much easier. I realized this when a good movie was playing on TV and I turned it off. Just shows what I like best. Trish Burr is one of my favorite embroiderers. Thank you for a chance to win a pattern.
These are beautiful kits, and I am sure they would find a fabulous home here in New Zealand!!
I love to stitch in peace with just the sounds of what ever is in the neighbourhood… hate stitching in a room where conversation is expected of me!!
Blessings
Maxine
This time of the year I like to stitch or work on applique quilt blocks on Sundays while my husband watches football.
In the Spring, Summer or Fall its sitting in my front yard under the tree looking out on the creek we live on. There are lots of geese, ducks and a couple of blue herons. Every now and then a nice breeze comes rolling in off the creek. It is a pretty and relaxing place to be. Thank you for having such a lovely give away. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
I prefer visiting or audiobooks/podcasts, myself: nothing too challenging, but I’ve really enjoyed terry pratchett’s Tiffany Aching series as audiobooks for needlework and crafting.
In the winter, I love to sit by the fire to embroider. No TV, music or other sounds needed (or wanted).
I would love to win the pansies kit!
When I embroider or knit I like to have the television on and or have people talking to me. When I’m sitting down to watch a program it only seems right to have something to do with my hands.
Please oh please I’d love the pansies…I’d work on it in my living room while the kids and hubby and the dog and I watch\listen to the TV and talk.
I love these kits so much, I would love to win one. Thank for the opportunity.
I have a few favourite times and places to stitch. Generally it is in front of the TV at night, but usually that is not so productive, but the best time and place is sitting out in my back yard in a lovely sheltered spot, usually with my cat and dog near by and all the birds that live in the surounding trees going about their business as usual. If I can’t get outside, I am usually sitting by a large window so I can get natural light and be able to look outside all the time to rest my eyes. I usually don’t get the opportunity to stitch with anyone, so stitching is definately ‘me’ time.
Thank you and regards
Margaret
wow…in luv with the birds! sooooooo precious and…fuzzy…ty for the link on these…me? well…lately it is important for me to just focus on the stitching as I have been away from it for a bit…but once im better…I would prefer music to anything…even coordinated enuf to sing along once I get going! HA! ty for a chance..
It is so relaxing to sit on the front porch and work on an embroidery project. One can hear the birds sing. It is so peacful! When it is impossible to go outside, I like to listen to soothing music while I work. Thank you for the opportunity to win one of these adorable kits.
My favorite way to stitch is sitting around with friends. Time just flies by. It is also great to get opinions on colors and stitches. If we can’t get together I like listening to audiobooks as long as the stitching doesn’t need too much figuring out!
I do my needle work while watching tv or just a quite time in the evenings. I would love something in my Christmas stocking besides fruit and candy, some thing that would last
Please let my name be in the hat for Trish’s kits. I especially love the bluebirds since we used to have some that nested in our chimney.
I “listen” to my favorite (or my husband’s)TV shows from the dining room. That’s where the best lighting is.
When I am involved in anything having to do with working with my hands, I do not like distractions. Peace and quiet are of my preference so I can concentrate fully on what I am doing. More so if it’s something new to me and careful instruction following must be made.
Thank you Mary and Trish for your generous holiday gifts.
I love to stitch while listening to any calming sound…beautiful music, the voices of family and friends, rain on the roof…but my thread/floss tension becomes erratic if I try to watch a movie or listen to audio books. Can’t have that!!!
Beautiful give away…
IhopeIwinIhopeIwinIhopeIwin……….
Hello – I found your blog about a year ago and have been following it – I use to embroider ALOT when I was a teenager(decades ago!!) – I recently rediscovered knitting which I always did and I remembered how much I loved embroidery and have been getting supplies to get going again. I take care of my Mom who has Alzheimer’s and I am doing these things for my mental health and have to be very flexible about when and how I do it – I got real excited when I saw these kits – would LOVE to get one – I have downloaded and printed out your ebooks in eager anticipation of taking the plunge. My Mom and I patched and embroidered a pair of my brother jeans together back in the late 60ties and it was a work of art!! anyway – I enjoy your blog every day!! Thanks
Believe it or not, I play bridge sometimes! I play online, so it’s a good thing to do when I’m dummy…..
Wow I would sure like to win either one of those kits. Not sure if you intended it for international fans, I love flower and birds so either would be great..When embroidering, i love to sit in my room either watching tv or listening to a good cd. When I lived in South Africa I used to love embroidering with my darling mother in law, Colleen who very lovingly introduced me to Silk Ribbon Embroidery and so began my love for Embroidery. I am so blessed to have had her in my life. However now I don’t really have anyone to embroider with since i moved to Australia and since the sunlight is so bright here in Australia, I prefer to sit inside and out of the brighness. Thanks for such a lovely site. God bless. Virginia
Usually I embroider listening to music or an audiobook. My favorite seat is the end of the living room sofa with my Craftlite Dublin LED lighted magnifier turned on. (I purchased that after your favorable review.)
I usually stitch when watching TV. i like taking to work and doing something while on lunch hour also, lately that been needle tatting.
Joanie in West Tn.
Hi Mary, when I am stitching, whether embroidery or sewing with my machine, I prefer to have the television on, not so much because there are programs I may want to watch – either broadcasted or a dvd, but more to have somewhere to move my eyes to relax the muscles. I am longsighted and to be able to glance up at the tv, gives the muscles required to look at close work a chance to relax off. Thank you for your giveaways, it is always fun to enter.
Merry Christmas to You and Your Family and to all the members of your Blog Family also.
Marian (NZ)
When I embroider I like to sit in my “Walton” style armchair, complete with lace arm covers and big foot “pouffe.” I also have my cat sitting right next to me with his chin on my frame or needlework tray. I like to watch tv and usually find a channel that will have “cloak & daggers” playing forever, i.e. “Law & Order.” I don’t necessarily like to be outside but my chair is near the big patio doors so I get to see all the birds feeding at the feeder. Stitching with a cup a tea by my side and my cat Pye for company, I am a happy camper! (mindji@yahoo.com) Thanks for having a giveaway!
Anywhere! I was the weird kid who did cross stitch in the 7th grade at lunch. I’ve done it on my Dad’s fishing boat on Lake Ontario. Planes, often trains, but not automobiles. Still trying to figure out how to do my two favorites at once – stitching and reading!
I love these little kits–esp. the little birds. Would love to try my hand at them. I enjoy stitching during the day while I listen to talk radio. Evening stitching usually means the TV is on–I listen but don’t watch much of it…
I most love to stitch in my dining room which has four large windows to provide natural light and views of my flower gardens and yard (or snowdrifts, in the winter). I play my favorite music which softens the sounds of TV sports going on in the family room. There’s room for my floor magnifying light, chart stand, and stitching frames. A different project is placed on each of the dining room chairs. It’s a smorgasbord of stitching options! My beautiful crystal sparkles at me as I stitch and a fan blows refreshing air whenever I feel “overheated”. My two kitties usually join me, one sprawling on the table and the other demanding attention from the floor. Any bead, needle, or thread that drops to the floor is a goner if I’m not really quick to retrieve it. This “beat the kitty” game helps keep me agile. If the weather is nice, the windows are open and I can hear the birds and the wind. It’s a peaceful, roomy place to stitch.
Happy stitching!
Mary Alice
I like having the TV on in the background, but only if it is reruns. If it’s something that I need to pay attention to, it’s too hard to stitch at the same time. The second alternative is music. Audio books are cumbersome because I have to stop them frequently when I need to read directions or have to really concentrate on what I’m doing.
I am a teacher and I work for the after school program as well, so some days I am at school 12 to 13 hours a day. I hadn’t invited since I was a young girl and I have been taking it up again recently. I have been in for you doing around the other teachers. Being a teacher is so much more than teaching specially these days. I can be very stressful! I think that’s why my the others enjoyed looking at my work so much. if only for a few moments it takes their mind to a fun sweet place. thanks for asking.
When I am at home I like music but my hubby is disabled so he is usually in the room on his computer…or I do my embroidery either at drs. or at the bus stop….in a perfect world a nice quite place with a cup of tea would be wonderful
I just love those bluebirds. I usually sew in the evening while I am in the living rood with
my husband. The TV is on, but it doesn’t bother me. I also love to take my embroidery
with me when we go camping. Thanks for the chance to win.
wigglypup2(at)yahoo(dot)com
Hi Mary! What lovely Trish Burr kits, my favorite is the one with little birds — I guess ’cause I lived with little lovebirds who flew around the house for several years, (until we adopted a kitten and a corgi, and then they lived in large cages, although we discussed building an aviary in the breezeway). Anyway, I love to stitch with classical music or radio talk shows involving the arts. I also love to be with other people who are engaged in some creative endeavor like writing, painting, music, etc, or talking with others. It’s great if my kitty is on my lap, or on the sofa or bed with me. I like to have tea, treats and a fireplace too. I also like to take my needlework with me to stitch on the bus, in a coffee house, restaurant, sometimes during a concert, (sometimes I draw, then, too). They are all wonderful — I guess I like to stack pleasureable activities on top of one another and it’s kind of frustrating when I can’t combine more than one thing at a time. Of course, I can’t usually stitch while performing, (playing harp, singing and theatre) but maybe some day I’ll be cast in a play where my stage business is stitching…so one can dream! Thanks so much for your beautiful blog and wonderful give-a-way! Sabrina
How beautiful are these beautiful needle paintings in minature especially those dear little birds. When embroidering I’m usually in my comfortable chair. As background the first preference is to have an Andrea Reiu DVD playing > very inspirational. Sometimes, music, TV or audio books while my loveable little doggie lays at my feet. Mind you if my husband asks me what was said on TV I have to answer that I haven’t the faintest notion. Such is my consentration. It is always inspirational, love it, to sit with fellow embroiderers, to talk,laugh & to compare notes includinging other embroidery contacts & suppliers of equiptment. Thanks for your site Mary, your research & joy of embroidery in that you share with others.
I can usually stitch anywhere, as long as it’s not a complicated counted cross stitch. But usually most of my stitching is done while the TV is on. I love those little bluebirds! They are so fluffy and cute!
I love to listen to books on tape while I’m stitching. Sometimes the TV is on but most often it’s books on tape for me. These kits are gorgeous! The birds looks like they are ready to fly off the fabric!
Mary I love the goldwork projects you have done! I love Trish’s work also. I listen to the radio and old time radio show cds. The t.v. is too distracting. I sit outside when the Chicago weather lets me. You have a wonderful and very informative website. I love it! Thank you
I hope an Ozzie is eligible as the miniature kits look superb. Trish Burr’s work is beautiful and something I have wished to try. Other than a once a month day embroidery group, I usually only stitch at night with a good magnifying light in front of the tele. I have been stitching for 66 years and improved after a workmate said “make your stitches smaller”. So instead of clodhopper stem stitch, I improved. Today here, is a scorcher. Hot North winds & 37deg.C. By the way, I have an American gr. d-in-law. Love, to all there.
I sit in the living room and keep my husband company while he watches television. This way a am sharing my time with him, doing what I like and being productive.
Love Trish’s lovely little birds.
I hope an Ozzie is eligible as the miniature kits look superb. Trish Burr’s work is beautiful and something I have wished to try. Other than a once a month day embroidery group, I usually only stitch at night with a good magnifying light in front of the TV. I have been stitching for 66 years and improved after a workmate said “make your stitches smaller”. So instead of clodhopper stem stitch, I improved. Today here, is a scorcher. Hot North winds & 37deg.C.
These designs are beautiful. I would love to have the chance to work one.
I like to sit quietly, listening to a classical music radio station, or a favorite CD.
I find this helps to create a calm and peaceful
feeling, where I can really get the “feel” of the subject.
Thanks to you, and Trish Burr for the opportunity to enter.
Rosemary Sculfer.
My greatest joy is to have the house all to myself with one of my favorite shows on the tube, seated comfortably in my big comfy chair while working on a challenging embroidery project. Although listening to the tv, my mind wanders while thinking of how the embroidery will turn out and if everyone will enjoy seeing it.
I love to embroider and watch something like a movie or a tv show on dvd. Usually it has to be something I have seen before so I don’t have to pay to much attention to it.I find it so relaxing!
-Heather in Chicago
I love to curl up on my favorite end of the old sofa (it fits me well) to do my stitching. I have a one-track mind, so I can’t concentrate on TV and stitching but I do like music occasionally. Otherwise I love the quiet, when I can escape and focus on the rhythm of stitching, which is relaxing and rejuvinating for me. Trish’s work is beautiful, especially those little birds.
Vivian M.
I usually have either the TV or some music going on in the background. this habit was passed down to me from my mom and grandmother, who can’t fathom sitting still without doing something. 🙂
I always multi task when I am stitching. I am always sitting in front of the TV too.
Hi Mary – how very kind of Trish.
I live on my own and either listen to the radio – we have an excellent version of your PBC here in New Zealand – or listen to music, usually classical, sometimes the old rockers, sometimes folk music. My taste is eclectic. It depends on what type of embroidery I am doing!
It makes a difference what kind of work I am doing as to what I might prefer going on around me. If I am doing something that takes a lot of concentration, I prefer that not a lot is going on except for some instrumental music. If I am doing work that doesn’t demand that I give it my complete attention, I enjoy conversation with a group of my friends while I am working. I also do needlework while watching TV, but the best is when other stitching friends are sharing ideas.
I mostly like to embroider while watching TV
Or Christian radio. If i am doing counted cross stitch I like to mostly just listen to music as I need to concentrate on counting LOL.
I sure would love to win one of these just darling kits.
Robin Marks
Hi, I sew anywhere, with music, without music, with televison, without television. I haven’t tried audio books, but definitely going to the library to pick some up now. I also sew whilst chatting at my sewing group and also sew in memories!
I am waiting for summer, because here is now winter and snow…
Hi Mary,
I spend most evenings stitching. My husband watches TV and I “listen” to TV if I’m doing embroidery of any kind. If I’m knitting, I get to see more of the TV show. My husband is well trained to read me any text that appears during whatever show we might be watching.
Marlene Smit, Windsor, ON
The very best place to stitch is in my chair in the living room. It should be nighttime when everything is quiet. I should be wrapped in a quilt with my two dogs at my feet keeping them toasty warm. When I am done, I am so relaxed I sleep like a baby. May I add I absolutely love the bluebirds. Keep up the good work Mary and Trisha.
It would be such a treat to win one of these lovely kits! Thank you for making these 2 available through this give-away! I prefer either silence, or listening to a book on CD. I am a sucker for the Jack Reacher series by Lee Child.
Seasons Greetings to you Mary.
I love to listen to the radio while I am embroidering. I live in Australia and my favorite radio station is Radio National they keep me up to date on what is happening nationally and internationally artistically socially and rurally and all the while I can stitch to my hearts content and keep myself informed at the same time.
My most productive embroidery is with some kind of background noise (a tv show I don’t need to pay attention to, or some music.) But the most enjoyable times are probably when I’m hanging out with my friends, often while playing complicated board games (there’s lots of down time!)
Oh, these are SO cute!
It really depends on what I am stitching. something that requires magnification I tend to work on at a desk with the TV or radio on for background company. If I don’t need the magnification, then I can head outside and listen to the birds and enjoy the sunshine – or stitch with freinds!
I love to watch tv
Ellen Perry
In Tx
Oh, what a wonderful way this would be to introduce my granddaughter to needlework. I would sooooo love to give this to her. I do miniature work so it would be just perfect.
I prefer to either listen to soft music (preferable harp) or else listen so tv/movies while I stitch.
I AM A TEACHER DURING THE DAY AND WORK WITH THE AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM. I HAVE SHROOMS CAN BE VERY STRESSFUL THESE DAYS. SO I REALLY ENJOY EMBROIDERING AROUND THE OTHER TEACHERS. IT REALLY SEEMS LIKE A FUN SWEET GETAWAY MOMENT FOR US ALL. THANKS FOR ASKING
oh wow I am excited about this giveaway and would really love to win. I have picked up her books that you recommended and love them. I especially love the birds.
I do my embroidery and most all of my creative projects in silence. I don’t want any distractions. there are a very few that I do while watching tv-which is my rug hooking.
thanks for the chance Kathy
Hi Mary, I like many of the things you listed, but I also like to take periods of time and try to just zone in on the stitch. This can be quite meditative. I can concentrate on how it feels to hold the needle and pass it from one hand to the other. Or, to concentrate on the exact placement of the stitch. I find that ‘paying attention’ to an activity can be very interesting – if I can sustain the attention.
Wow, Mary. Thanks for another great giveaway!
With simple projects, I embroider at the dining table while I supervise my children with their homeschool work. More complicated work, I prefer quiet time upstairs, with all my gear easily accessible.
Trish Burr’s work is stunning. The gorgeous birds would make a wonderful gift for my daughter’s baby due in March next year. (My daughter has always loved birds)
Thanks again for your generosity!
I prefer to be in my favorite recliner with a good light over my left shoulder and a favorite movie on the TV. I can be alone or with others as long as I have my chair and my light!
Those birds are really cute.I listen to music or audio books while I embroider.Thanks Mary and Trish for the give-away.
It depends what I am stitching If it is a new technique or fine work I prefer to do it on my own in peace and quiet. But I also like to stitch in front of TV and at several stitching groups where I get inspiration and help from my stitching so I have some ‘easier’ projects for those situations.
I love to stitch while listening to radio shows, often with my husband, or at the kitchen table in the mornings wen he is at work. I’m a hardcore NPR addict (especially “wait wait don’t tell me and “thus American life”) with a healthy dose of Relic Radio thrown in (they play old timey radio shows on the web). Add a strong cup of coffee and I’m happy for hours!
I love to stitch in with others. I set up a ‘Stitch and B@#$h” group, we meet monthly to stitch and chat. One advantage of this approach is that it motivates us to work on our projects between sessions. I take photos of everyone’s projects at each session so we can see the progress.
I love listenng to the old comedies, dramas and plays from Britain on the BBC. Theycan be listened to free by anyone, anywhere in the world over the internet
http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4extra
The only problem is that i tend to stitch faster at the more dramatic moments!
I love to stitch to quiet gentle classical music or sit outside listening to the birds and the wind sighing in the sheoaks Don’t like to stitch with other people, I either miss the conversation, don’t hear or answer questions or chat and forget to stitch.
A very happy Happy Christmas and thanks for another wonderful year of generously shared knowledge and experience.
I love listening to music while stitching. I find TV, chatting with friends and outside view to be too distracting.
Resmi from India.
I had to think about this since I stitch in all sorts of situations. What I figured out, though, is that if I’m stitching something that requires only a needle and thread I like to have the TV on. If I need additional tools to work on my project I will stitch to music. If I need additional tools and it’s complicated, then I stitch in silence. Since I usually have several projects going on at once, I often pick which one to work on based on whether I’m in the mood for silence, music, or TV. I would love to figure out which category Trish Burr’s miniatures would fall into.
Hi Mary from soggy Oregon State! I enjoy stitching the most when my husband is home, and happily watching his marshall arts on tv,with our two chihuahua princesses Angelica and Angelina cuddled with him on his chair,and I’m either downstairs in my little studio, or on the deck when it’s warm out. (I am looking forward to Spring!) Sometimes I bring my bird Wissal (he’s a cockatiel) down with me and we listen to nature tapes, or my favorite cd which is just the sound of the ocean with the tide coming in and out. When I stitch outside, I can listen to all the creatures in the neighborhood, the birds and squirrels, and all the different bees and insects, with the lovely white noise of the creek always playing in the background. It has been more like a roaring river lately, but I love that too. The truth is my mind just happily hums along when I work on my projects, and time slips away. I know sewing time is over when the princesses start barking at every little noise from my studio, and they want mommy to come fix dinner for them, lol! When I’m outside,my horse starts fussing for his dinner too! I’m a happy hermit who loves to create beauty most of all:)Merry Christmas and a very happy sewing filled New Year!
Hello Mary, the kits look absolutely gorgeous and I would love to have one.
While I am embroidering, or working at other things, I do like background noise of some sort. Often I have the televison on if I am on my own. These days, since my son and his partner moved back in with us, I find myself watching them playing their x-box games on the televison. Since their cats moved in with them sometimes I have to try and embroider with a cat on my knee.
hi Mary we hardly get any such kits from where I come so a big thanks for the give away,and my answer to your question would be that I prefer embroidering listening to soft music or sitting in
my garden with all the birds chirping.
So again thanks a lot to you and Trish and a merry Christmas.
hi Mary we hardly get any such kits from where I come so a big thanks for the give away,and my answer to your question would be that I prefer embroidering listening to soft music or sitting in
my garden with all the birds chirping.
So again thanks a lot Trish and a merry Christmas.
Hi Trish
Mainly I love to find small slot of time to embroidery, so what is around is not very important, when I can choose it would be relaxing music. I live in Ireland so my little embroidery time is indoor in Winter, but I have a nice wild garden where I can see tiny birds that the ones in the kit that come every morning to eat seeds that I left around.
So hope to win the kit and see them more often in my kitchen. I enjoy your blog very much. Thanks.
I like to watch old films – like the Hercule Poirot series, whilst I am stitching. Being old favourites it doesn’t matter that I miss much of the visual because of watching my stitching. I just love those kits by Trish Burr I am just learning silk shading and am making a stole for a friend who is to be ordained soon. I have found your website absolutely invaluable and thank you for being so generous with your expertise. Have a wonderful Christmas.
Trish Burr is my favorite thread painting embroiderer. I have wanted to do one of these delightful designs for a long time, hope one day I will. I love to stitch with my friends although any situation is good to sew in… my favorite is when I’m with close friends.Thanks for this wonderful chance to win one of Trish’s works.
I have a favorite chair that I do my embroidery in. It is plump,like me.LOL. It has wide armrests and my cat Otis perches himself on the left watching patiently as the thread goes up and down. Makes me smile everytime I think of it.
Hi Mary,
We’ve converted our daughter’s old bedroom into our tv room. It’s there that I like sitting to embroider and watch tv at the same time. When the embroidery requires all my attention, I embroider – when not, I keep one eye (I think it’s more like an ear) on the film and one eye on the project. When the film becomes too engrossing, I put the project aside for however long the action on the screen requires both eyes and ears.
I usually have music playing while I stitch. Unless it’s very early in the morning, and then I love the silence while the sun comes up.
I like to watch TV or listen to talk radio while I embroider. Makes me feel as though I’m not wasting my time .
Oooh can’t choose between delicate pansies and fluffy bluetits. A very good idea to let you choose your own threads. Many like me must have boxes of part used skeins just itching for a minature project. I used to sit down of an evening after work and chose my project according to how interesting the programme was on TV or radio! Now, having retired I am reminding myself to sit down during the day and ignoring the housework instead!
Hello, I would like to say if I am starting a new project and it needs some attention I need a quite room with no distractions. I like to have some music on in the background but I will make fewer mistakes if I have no interruptions. Once I am underway and have learned the pattern etc I am happy to have the TV on and my cats and dogs around me for company. I would love to have a Trish Burr miniature to work on, I am a great fan of her work. I love her projects on flowers and birds. Thanks Jane McIvor. New Zealand.
Please include me in the drawing – I enjoy thread painting, especially animals, and these look beautiful and fun projects.
When I stitch at home I usually have the tv or radio on, but what I most enjoy is stitching with friends at stitch-ins or just to have something in my hand while others are chatting.
I attend 1-2 stitch-ins/week with different groups. Tuesday nights is with friends -we meet for dinner and then go stitch – working on different projects depending on our interests (knitting, embroidery, cross-stitch, or needelepoint) – all of these people (although not required) also belong to the local ANG chapter. I also attend stitch-ins with both a local ANG chapter and EGA chapter which meet during the day. Stitch-ins are wonderful because we stitch with friends, show off our completions (and get inspiration at the same time) and also get stitching help for any questions we may have. It is also a wonderful way to turn a solitary activity into a social one.
What do you prefer to be going on around you while you’re embroidering? i.e. do you watch TV, listen to music, listen to audiobooks, embroider around friends or family while chatting, do you prefer silence, do you like to be outside where you can see and hear the wonders of the natural world around you, or … ?
Hello,
I am from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and I have no idea if I am eligible or not but have been following your website for quite awhile now.
I love to embroidery when it is all peace and quiet and both my sons are sound asleep and my dear husband is just by myside and while he watches TV, we chat along as well and I embroidery too. That is the most special time of the day for me….
Thank you Mary even for just the apportunity
I love to stitch sitting outside and listening to the birds and sometimes seeing a rabbit playing. If it is to cold to be outside, I like to sit in my stitching space in the quite.
I often have TV on in the background so that I remember to look up from my embroidery, otherwise I often am too involved in the embroidery and forget to rest my eyes. If I am working on a piece that requires concentration, I like silence. I also prefer doing embroidery in the daytime because of the natural light.
Trish Burr’s kits are wonderful and I would love to win one.
I LOVE to stitch. I stitch anywhere, and with anything going on. I stitch in the morning, afternoon and evening if I can. What therapy stitching can be.
I bought Trish’s book when you reviewed it, but have not started a project yet. If I should be a lucky one in this give away, I would jump right in. Thanks for the opportunity.
What a wonderful gift for whoever wins. Both pieces are simply beautiful. Either one who would be fun to stitch. It would be a great project to start in January !!
Thank you for this give-away gift.
Mary
I usually enjoy the silence when I embroider, with the sound of my bunnies softy eating veggies, my guinea pig squeaking and my red squirrel destroying (cutely) anything plastic or wood.
I absolutely love these little birds!
Hi Mary,
These are so darling! Your give aways are so much fun for all of us out here, win or not the thrill of the chance is still there.
I’m so engrossed in the pleasure of stitching I don’t need any other sounds but sometimes I will put on gentle beautiful music in the background but not always. I’ll always choose to stitch with friends rather than alone when that opportunity comes around at our EGA meetings.
Thanks for all you do and Merry Christmas,
Vickie
Those are so cute! While I stitch, I either am watching a movie with my mom, listening to a radio drama (Adventures in Odyssey) , or watching football with my family. I love doing it with music on, too.
I normally have something going in the background while I stitch. It could be the TV, music, radio or a DVD. I have a stitching area in the front room where I can stitch, and everything I need is right in front of me.
I’d love one of these pretty little kits. I have to sew in silence as I have quite a bit of memory difficulties and so have to concentrate quite hard. But I like this. I often have a nice thought go round in my head though, usually the title or theme of the piece. Some times I may be thinking of a person or place. That being said the inspiration for quite a few of my pieces comes from nature. I love to be out and sit by the river bank and listen to the water and watch the light play on the leaves. When I was quite ill for a while I grew to love the sound of birdsong through my open bedroom window. I remember hearing a tiny little bird sitting in the top of a tree nearby singing his heart out. He may only have had two notes, but for me it could have been the Hallelujah chorus.
Love both kits. Really like the birds. They really look real. they look so fuzzy.
Hope I win.
I love her birds! My favorite place to do embroidery, is outside in the garden, under the open sky, with the natural lighting and the birds singing and flying. This time of year, in the cold north, I appreciate a warm fire and quiet music, and tend to get really involved in the moment of stitching. My winter therapy!
Would love to win either of those beautiful kits, thank you for the opportunity!I stitch best while watching the tv, if nothing is on I will listen to an audiobook….I am a multi-tasker! It may slow down my stitching, but it is what relaxes me best!
For me it’s a talking book or XM radio playing softly i the background and off to the side a cup of coffee and a big glass of water.
I definitely don’t stitch outside as I live in England and it’s far too cold! I usually stitch in front of the TV or whilst chatting with friends and family.
I will be very happy if I get one of those kits.
Regarding your question I love to hear music. But most of the times I used to sing songs praising my Lord and saviour JESUS CHRIST.
Since classical music and needlework are equally important in my life, I find that one complements the other. We usually (almost always, actually) have music playing in the background in our home and it makes for a quiet space in my life.
However, sometimes I do stitch while the TV is on and my Sweetie is watching the only sport he follows which is Formula 1 racing. The races are generally 2-3 hours long and I enjoy being able to watch and stitch especially on something small that does not require my total attention.
I like to watch tv! Usually I will put a tv series DVD on and do a marathon! I have tonnes of tv series on DVD just for this purpose. It annoys my partner, because he thinks I can’t stitch AND follow the storyline (men!).
Oh I adore those trish burr kits! I can’t decide which I like better! I think the pansies, but only because they have been my favourite flower ever since I was a child 🙂
Needlework time is sacred time in my life-quiet time. I sit by a big glass window and frequently glance outside to watch the birds in the water bowls and the hummingbirds enjoying nectar from my flowers. I often tell people that my needlework time is like therapy for me. I can instantly reduce my anxiety and stress with the simple touch of a needle and thread. Those cute little birds would fit right into my world. Thank you for the opportunity to receive one of these Trish Burr treasures.
Wow I just love Trish’s designs and especially these beautiful little miniatures that she has so expertly created. I would so love to have one of these designs in my collection just in time for Christmas so that I can relax with my embroidery under the trees as the top of my garden. It is here that I love to embroider so much just listening to the birds and admiring my garden especially after one of our highveld thunderstorms. Everything looks so bright and rejuvenated afterwards especially with the tremendous heat we have had lately.
I love to stitch away while “listening” to old movies on TV. You don’t really have to watch them, the story is actual conversations, not special effects. Also, it brings me back to the time when I would stitch with my Mom, a more peaceful and slower pace than today.
When I stitch, I like watching TV with hubby or sometimes in silence. In silence, embroidering, for me, is like active meditation. I mostly do it indoors with a lot of natural light or looking out at a view of nature.
Sometimes I like to stitch in quiet surroundings, especially if I am working on something that requires close attention. However, sometimes I like to have some background noise (usually the television) for my stitching.
My favorite stitching “surround” is music or just blissful peace and quiet as I stitch in my recliner with my feet up under my good light with my lap frame. What a good time!
What could be better than stitching with friends – getting caught up with the latest news (or gossip); laughing until you think you might cry (or leak otherwise); getting or offering some much needed comfort; solving all the problems of the world – all while creating something beautiful. What could be better than that!
Thank you for the opportunity. I love anything that has flowers.
I mostly stitch in silence. I have found that when the TV is on I never hear anything anyway. I take some kind of stitching with me whenever we go on trips. I love going to the beach and stitch outside. It so peaceful listening to the ocean and stitching.If the weather is allows (above 50 degrees) I stitch outside. I have a spot on the deck that I can stitch and still have all of nature around me.
I like to watch TV, but not something I have to pay too much attention to. I was thinking just yesterday that maybe I should try music because perhaps I would have less mistakes!
When the weather permits, it is outside that I embroider and lace the songs of birds, the rustling of leaves in the trees and fresh air are the best stimulants for me … At other times of the year I run inside, I remain further north than you with good lighting while listening to classical music, it is also happiness. In the evening the TV work I listen without looking.
I would like to win a kit offered by Thrish, adorable designer which I have most of these books. “My choice would be the thoughts.”
Mary thank you for all that you bring me every day, you are my guardian angel embroidery.
Micheline Quebec Canada
Please include me in the drawing. I love those little birds.
I like to have music on while I stitch. Unfortunately my husband prefers to have the TV on so I usually end up listening to the TV.
I like to watch old black and white movies. Way back when, before VHS, cable or anything, we had 4 channels and an antenna. One of the channels played old movies every afternoon after school. I loved them and luckily so did my mother. Homework was left to wait until our movie was over. When the new fangled things came along my husband and I started buying VHS’ and then DVD’s of the movies I had watched growing up. Since I know them by heart, I can stitch while watching. I can see in my minds eye what is going on on the TV screen. It also puts a timer on my stitching or I would probably start and go all day. That doesn’t mean I can’t watch a movie in the morning and one in the afternoon. If I’m lucky my husband will want to watch one in the evening! Thank you for the chance at this wonderful giveaway. Pansies are my favorite flower, and Bluebirds are my favorite wild bird.
I enjoy embroidering and crazy quilting while sitting in my sewing room either listening to audiobooks or with a movie or tv show on that I’ve already seen before (that way I can enjoy the story without needing to be distracted by the video). I would LOVE to try one of Trish Burr’s beautiful embroidery kits. Thank you so much for your wonderful website and newsletters. I’ve learned so much from you.
Stitching outside is nice because of the good daylight. Disadvantage is you have to think about all the things you need, just to prevent yourself running in and out the house gathering stuff.
Stitching while listening to music is also nice. Watching TV or chat while stitching doesn’t work for me.
I used to stitch in every free minute I have;I love to stitch then my family goes to sleep, I love to stitch chatting with my friends, I can stitch then TV is on.. If you love stitching it doesn;t matter then and where it’s happens.
Beautiful kit, I want it very much.
Hi Mary, My favorite place to do needlewowrk is in the family room. I have my own little corner with a love seat. That is all mine. I usually have the tv on somewhat listening but missing much of the plot of the story. I am usually in my own little world enjoying the relaxtion of needlework. I would love to win one of your give-aways. Thank You
I like to embroider while the television is on. Usually I just listen to a program, glancing up now and then if there is important action on screen. Some programs, like Jeopardy, lend themselves very well to TV listening, sports not so much.
Thank you for the opportunity to win one of these kits.
I love Trish Burr’s designs and these are no exception.=)
I can (and do) stitch whilst doing pretty much any or all of the things you mention – watching something on the DVD, listening to music or audiobooks, chatting with someone else, in silence or whatever comes really. I rarely stitch outside though – we have no garden or balcony for one reason and things keep getting blown away in the wind when I try!!
Recently, I’ve been watching all the David Suchet ‘Poirot’ TV episodes and the Joan Hickson ‘Miss Marple’, so stitch-along with Agatha Christie whodunnits is my current fave environment.
I love Trish Burr! She is my favorite embroidery designer! Her use of color is wonderful and inviting.
Usually I have the TV on as embroidery is an after dinner activity.
Thanks Mary and Trish!
OH! I SO want one of these kits! I’m SO excited! I ADORE the little birds!!
Actually I prefer silence around me when I’m stitching. I do like the TV on and muted. And I like my little dog stretched out beside me in the chair. I like knowing my hubby is in the other room. All that is comfortable! But please don’t bother me. Just BE there. LOL!
I am hearing impaired so talking and other sounds are distracting noises as I have to stop what I’m doing and look at whoever is talking.
Mary, I usually stitch while “watching” television. I enjoy the company! When working with my stitching group, I have found that talking and stitching does not get much accomplished on the fabric. I enjoy being with them – sometimes to the point of distraction!
Hello,
When ever I embroider I have to listen to something, either the TV or the radio.
Thanks,
Rachel
So unique-I want one!
I love to stitch ANYWHERE. My favorite place, however, is stitching on my patio listening to the rest of the world go by. My favorite kind of stitching — needle painting with Trish Burr as my guide! Thanks Mary for the chance to win one of these beautiful kits.
I live in a three story house with a central staircase. Those walls are my textile gallery… I have every conceivable textile craft behind those many frames, mostly by native artists of many different lands. I really SHOULD add one of my own, and wouldn’t those little birds stitched by little ol’ me be a wonderful addition? I’d even send you a picture……
Hanny with a y
Of course I SHOULD have answered your original question as well! When do I stitch? When the mood strikes and all the chores are done and I don’t have to finish a book before having to pay library fines. Where? Usually in the dining room – that kept-clean horizontal space and the good overhead light make it tempting. What else is going on? Maybe radio, definitely not TV. I’m fine without extra stimulation, got plenty going on in my head!
My favorite stitching time and place is my little sewing/lacemaking/reading room, with some music in the background. Next would be with the “quilt gang” or the “lace ladies”, with lots of tea drinking and laughter – not always in the background! Thanks for a lovely giveaway Mary!
Hi, Mary,
I simply cannot focus on my needlework with others around. I tend to look at people when they are talking. So. No TV either. (Except for Y&R which only requires listening to. lol) If I am outside I am always looking up at the birds in the garden or out at the marine wildlife. But I can muse about all sorts of serene things while stitching with either music or silence and interrupt those musings when it is time to count or check a pattern. So silence or music it is.
I usually stitch while listening to an audio book or with the tv on. Sometimes I’ll tune into Pandora. You notice that I didn’t say I watched TV, because I can’t do both.
I am lucky enough to live in an area where we have 4 stitch and chats a month, and the sharing and laughter at these is a boon. But can’t do anything requiring concentration at these. Thanks to you and Trish for the lovely giveaway.
When I’m embroidering I prefer to watch TV. It’s very relaxing to me & a great way for me to unwind & create something at the same time.
I stitch just about anywhere and I usually need to have some kind of noise around me, whether it’s tv, music, audiobooks, people or nature.
Thanks for the opportunity to win one of these kits.
Merry Christmas!
My favorite place to sit and stitch is at my dining-room table with the classical music station playing on the radio. I tend to enjoy working alone as I get more done when not talking to others.
Hello Mary!
When I stich, I like to sit with my family
in the living room. We talk, listen to music,
or sometimes watch tv. It’s lovely!
We talk about our day, and spend quality time together. (Plus I also turn on your how to videos for a reference!They are fabulous!) thank you Mary for doing this wonderful give-away!OOOH I JUST LOVE THE BIRDIES!!! 🙂 I hope I get lucky!! My 12th birtday is comming up!!
Ciao, my 15 minutes project is my way to relax and take a pause from kids, housekeeping and full time job, therefore it should be silence! Buon Natale
Dear Mary,
I like to embroider while sitting in the command chair on the bridge. I can monitor the activity around me and even watch incoming transmissions on screen. It is also pleasant to beam down to some verdant planet and work while enjoying the novel sights, sounds, smells and alien inhabitants while keeping ‘away team’ members as far AWAY as possible. The only hitch comes when I request silks and linens from the replicator; it sends synthetics.
Live Long & Prosper
Mary,
Thank you so much for the fab give-a-way. I embroider mostly while watching tv but also at the kitchen table while my husband reads the paper.
Happy Holidays!
Claudia
I prefer to listen to audio books while I stitch, but I will listen to television- series streamed from Netflix in a pinch. The television option does remind me to get up and move around between episodes so it is better for my back, but I still like the books the best!
Jan Box
I just enjoy doing needlework, the TV can be going, but I am so wrapped in what I am doing I don’t keep up with the programme, so really I should be doing it in silence. Embroidery is just so relaxing, and the time just flies past when you are doing something you enjoy.
If I have an easy project (cross stitch) I am happy to do it while I watch TV, but if I am counting….well you know what I mean, its so easy to make a boo-boo if you get distracted.
I’ve tried listening to audio books, but I find that as I concentrate and get into a meditative state with stitching, that I miss whole hunks of the stories!
The meditative feeling when it is totally quiet and you are stitching is unbelievable.
regards and I just want to stroke those little fluffy birds!!
Julie N
Most of the time, I listen to music. Its enough room noise to keep me from being distracted by extraneous noise outside and I find I can concentrate. Sometime, I’ll put on a favored movie, something I’ve seen before, so I don’t really have to pay attention, and can listen. The Merchant-Ivory movies, Jane Austen and other period series. Diana Gabaldon’s books on audio!
I so want one of these kits!
I stitch in bits and pieces anywhere I can whenever I can! Whether that’s at my boys’ ballgames, in the vehicle, in the living room when everyone’s watching TV or visiting, or for a few moments in the evening after my papers are graded, I enjoy stitching in snipits because that’s the only way I ever get to stitch!
I will be stitching at home on my own with my anckle in plaster as I have just broken it, so at least 8 weeks of sitting around so stitch, stitch, stitch. Our local guild will come around for morning teas to help me. Isn’t that wonderful. A wonderful support group for stitching and convalescing. We love Trish Burr in New Zealand.
When I do embroidery, I prefer to sit in the living room with the rest of the family. While the guys (husband and son) and on occasions when the step-daughter is up… she’s on her laptop next to me. It makes me feel complete… everyone in the same room even if we don’t acknowledge one another, we all know we are not alone.
Hi Mary,
I have to say it depends on my mood. I would say all you mention work for me depending upon my mood at the time. Although I have to say that silence is very nice since it is so rare. Thank you Mary and Trish Burr for your generosity. Teresa Murphy
I love to stitch anywhere- alone or with others. TV and music make a nice background, but stitching for me is a “meditation”. I recently took a Trish Burr beginning class at a local needlework shop. I would love to stitch the birds!!!!!!
I usually have the TV on when I am stitching/sewing but don’t pay much attention to it. I love to sit outside and stitch but December in Michigan is not the time to do it. LOL I can embroider and chat with friends but I usually don’t try to cross stitch as I tend to have to frog many stitches later.
Thanks for the chance to win one of the beautiful kits.
Brenda S
Oooh, I loved the bluebirds as soon as I saw them. What can I say, except I really hope I win them! And if I can get my paws on a kit, I’ll just have to make sure my cats’ paws don’t interfere with my stitching, especially since the birds are so full of life. Bravo!
I love to embroidery and nine times out of ten, when I am embroidering I am watching Netflix on my laptop. I like that I can always hit the pause button if I need to give my project my undivided attention, and then can resume watching when I’ve reached a spot where I can watch. The other one tenth of the time? I’m listening to music! Thanks for offering this give away. I went over to Trish’s site after reading your review and didn’t find the one that I was looking for. I must have a kit for those little bluebirds even if I have to wait to get it!
Hi Mary…I love to listen to chant, medieval or classical musical in my front room with a big window and lots of light. It set the tone and the mood when I stitch.
Hi Mary,
Those are just the cutest kits! That bird one is the sweetest!
I love to watch TV and movies while stitching. As a matter of fact, I do the majority of my stitching in the evenings while watching TV. But if I am doing a stitch I really need to concentrate on, the TV gets shut off. I don’t often get a chance to stitch with friends, but it is always nice to do so. Thanks for the chance to win such a wonderful prize.
In the peaceful quiet of the evening
Or of the early morning,
I stitch,
Grateful for the luxury of time and place and threads
With which to make something lovely.
First: Thank you Mary. Your give aways are always great but this question and the answers generated are really special.
Second: I vote that you give this one to Constance who replied to the second response. What a lovely reply.
As for my response, embroidery is my escape. I’m very driven, type A., work centric person. Sometimes the only way I can drive work from my mind is to pick up a piece and stitch. Lately I’ve been taking my current project to work and work on it if I get to take a few minutes around lunchtime. I play music (currently-for absolutely unknown reasons- I’m on an opera kick) and stitch away. The combinaation helps me unwind and face the rest of the day.
Thanks for your work on the website including the giveaway questions Mary!
Hi Mary,
I like all of Trish´designs. They are outstanding.My favourites are the two birds.
I usually stitch while watching TV. All the family makes fun of my listening TV.
I take my embroidery with me to any place I go. I stitch at the lake, in the mountains, in the garden or on the train. Since my stitching friend died two years ago I only stitch when I am alone. It is like medidating when I am stitching and it is extremely relaxing.
I still miss my friend. We spent many hours stitching, chatting and having coffee. We discussed the floss and the fabric for the projects and went shopping together.
Remembering all the good time we had helps a lot.
I wish you and all the readers a nice Christmas time.
I love to stitch most anywhere no matter what is going on around me. I would LOVE winning a Trish Burr kit
I enjoy doing my embroidery the most when I hear my husband doing the vacuuming, washing the dishes or unloading the washing machine. Then I am in paradise. My most favorite hobby and the best hubby ever!
When I am embroidering, my favorite place is in my sewing room. I have a great deal of natural light there, a view into the garden, and a magnifying glass mounted on my ott light. Sometimes I listen to audio books, but often I just like the silence. The second favorite place is when I am traveling. I’ve leaned to pack the cutter from a dental floss box so I don’t have my good sissors taken away by the security people. A small embroidery kit is perfect for travel, and aTrish Burr kit would be fabulous.
I really love to watch TV mainly period pieces where they embroider.
Hi Mary, I love Trish Burr’s art pieces. They’re wonderful. I prefer to work in silence. I can concentrate better. But my muse is music. It helps me find my “zone”. I do much better stitching with just me. :))
P.S. Love the pansies….
Hi Mary, In a perfect world, my favorite place to stitch is outdoors, near a lake in the warm sunshine of Spring or Fall. If it is the other half of the year or if I have lots of “bits,” that is, beads, color changes, intense directions, then I like to be on my couch with my Ott Light and broadway music in the background. Reality dictates, however, that the bit of stitching I can get done is usually in a bumpy car ride in less than terrific light as my husband is driving. Hey, it is still stitching time, I’ll take it anyway I can fit it in!
I prefer to embroider in natural daylight rather than indoor light bulbs. I put a chair in my patio, turn on my ipod playlist, and sip a cup of coffee as I embroider. At times I just listen to chirping of birds . This whole ritual makes embroidering very meditative.
I really prefer to listen to audio books, but most likely I will be listening to television as my husband and I do enjoy our TV shows. I stitch in the living room where the television is located.
Thank you Mary and Trish for this nice gift !! I would love to have a Trish Burr design in my Christmas sock.
I like to stitch while watching TV, sometimes just nice music and in the warmer weather, with the patio door open to hear nothing but the waterfalls coming from the Koi pond. Somethings I stitch while visiting with friends, at coffee get togethers or lunch break. I also can get a lot done on a road trip – I am not the one driving ;-}
My birthday is just after Christmas – this would be a lovely birthday gift too..
Thanks again to both of you. Happy Holidays to both of you and all your readers
Most often I stitch in front of the TV, it is nearly impossible for me to have my hands idle while watching TV. If I’m not working on something while watching TV I feel so guilty for being idle. I also sometimes enjoy stitching while visiting with friends, especially other stitching friends.
Given that the time spent embroidering will be immortalized in the piece, I prefer to have only pleasant time associated with my piece. In otherwords if it is mindless time spent watching/listening to TV I can look back and reflect the hour(s) were redeemed with a piece of art. If I am in solitude or outside etc, I can look back and realize that some peace was found or realized amidst the project.
Your question: What do you prefer to be going on around you while you’re embroidering?
I prefer to stitch while listening to audiobooks, but will also do so while watching a movie I’ve seen before. It’s less fun if I have to pay attention to the screen.
I like to chat with other stitchers or watch TV while doing simple needlework – like cross-stitch, but if I am doing anything complicated, I prefer to have solitude and silence around me. Otherwise, a lot of ripping out is required!
So cute! I like to work around the family and visiting or listening to audiobooks!
I would love to receive a Trish Burr design kit. I have been doing embroidery since I was a teen and now I am 62. I love to do crazy quilting and love to do round robins. I live alone with my pets—a cat, iguana, bearded dragon, and tarantula. I also have a small jewelry business called Di’s Eye Candy and sell when I can. I am a retired registered nurse. I do my hand sewing while listening to TV—usually Court TV and movies. I love the birds design but all of them are gorgeous and would be such a special treat for me. I love to view Trish’s site and your site Mary to get great ideas!!
Mary: First happy holidays to you and yours. I am reading you on line as I forget to check my email.
This has been an interesting thread. No one mentioned that glancing up at the TV off and on while stitching rests the eyes. I find I can get a lot more done that way, even though it slows the stitching down a tiny bit. So on long projects, I get movies or watch TV. Otherwise I listen to mystery books. I can always back up a bit if I miss something.
Thanks for the question. I don’t need the kit. I have enough on my plate already.
Gorgeous! I think all the stitching options you list sound good, although if I try to stitch outside I find things tend to blow away… Really though, any time that I can sit and stitch in peace with a toddler around is fabulous.
I would prefer to work on embroidery outside, but living in a snowbelt that is impossible. Most of the time I have the TV on in the background.
I mostly listen to music from my MP3 player (mix from country to classical) in my sewing room and sew, knit, quilt at night in front of the TV. I can sew, knit, applique, anywhere–doctors, visiting, etc. With most appointments, there is some small preject in my purse that can be worked on while I wait. These adorable kits would be perfect to carry along. Thank you and I wish that you and yours have a joyous and merry Christmas.
I love to be around family and friends sitting in the family room with the kids playing and my husband watching tv nothing better then to be with people I love and doing my emboridery
and now that my 8 year old has started to sew with me it makes for great memories
Hello Mary and Everyone,
I most like to embroider either while talking to someone, especially my husband or my stitching buddy, or while listening to a radio documentary or tape discussing ideas. Thanks for the opportunity to win.
Best, Michelle
I love to stitch in my sunroom that looks out to our backyard. The room is all windows and sky lights and it is so bright and cheery even when it snows. I probably like silence most with the chirping of birds. I tend to do projects that need my attention there. I am doing a lot of embroidery lately and have recently learned Brazilian embroidery, which I love.
Dear Mary
I love embroidering amongst friends as the company, laughter and advise flying around the room makes my time there a very happy one. Where I live is quiet but I’m afraid I’d listen to the birds and be drawn away from my work in hand.
Hi Mary
It depends very much on the time of day, the project I´m working on and of course where I find myself! I can get so involved with my stitching that I block out everything else. The only thing that is distracting is carrying on a conversation – so I keep simple projects for those occasions.
Lovely giveaway. Love the birdies.
Keep well.
I love stitching. I had gotten out of practice but recently have been asked to show a bunch of high school students some basic needlework skills. I love the look of these miniatures and would be over the moon if I was lucky enough to win. Thank you for the opportunity.
I prefer to listen to audiobooks while I embroider.
Sarah Duehr
I would love to stitch the pansies but not the other one, as I am ornithophobic.
As far as stitching, I usually do it in the evening while the TV is on. Mostly TV is pretty mindless so I can give plenty of attention to the work and still keep up with the action. I also don’t mind doing it while chatting to friends, well I didn’t until one ‘friend’ informed me that it was very rude!
I like to have noise, so either music or a tv show I don’t have to pay much attention to.
707 comments already! whew. Ms. Burr, what a celebrity you are.
And what an imaginative question, Mary. I like embroidering near an open window, with the sounds of the world outside filtering in through the curtain. When I’m intent on a craft, quilling, baking, crochet or embroidery project, my mind takes off on its own sojurn. So I can’t have too many things around to stimulate me.
Thanks for the chance to win, both of you. And I’m sure the winner, whether in youth or childhood, certainly did somehting good in 2012. xxx from India
I enjoy doing embroidery while keeping hubby company in front of the TV. And sometimes if it is tricky, doing it during the quiet of the day.
Hi Mary,
Since I often find myself stitching after midnight instead of sleeping, I enjoy classical music, international music or rock with a strong rhythm when I stitch, none of it too loud. Old black and white movies from the 30’s and 40’s are great; I’ve seen them so many times that if I drift deeply into the stitching and miss lines or whole scenes, it doesn’t really matter. Last night it was ‘My Man Godfrey’ and some crazy quilting at 2 A.M. William Powell sure inspires some snazzy embroidery!
Thanks for a great web site and blog, and to Trish. Sara
Thanks Mary!
I love to stitch but there are two stitches which i haven’t perfected yet!
The Indian Kutch work and the famous long and short stitch.
Trish Burr is known for her Long and Short stitch works, on one of the occasion i ordered for a kit and still couldn’t master this stitch. how I wish you pick me for this give away!!
Thanks for the opportunity!
I listen to very light music(instrumental- so that I can hum the tune while I stitch) whenever i embroider
I like to embroider with friends and family around. It’s relaxing and we laugh a lot. Time flies by and before I know it hours have passed by and I’ve advanced significantly in my embroidery. Thanks for this beautiful give away. I really love embroidery painting and if I get picked then that means a whole lot more of good times with family and friends.
Candice from Barcelona
Hi Mary,
I usually stitch while listening to music…the genre depends on what I am working on. If it’s a project like the ones you are offering, I listen to classical or other instrumental music. If I am working on a project that is a little edgier or more contemporary I listen to some old school rock (60s and 70s). As to where I stitch, in my sewing room in the winter and on the porch in the summer.
That being said I am a big fan of Trish’s designs and would be thrilled to win either kit, but am partial to those sweet little birds! (I was one of those who tried to order after your review!)
Happy holidays and good luck to all!
Laurie
When I stitch or do any handwork, I am usually sitting in my chair with the television on. That doesn’t mean I am actually watching anything but I love being in the center of things. My husband is usually nearby.
It depends upon the season. In winter, I prefer to stitch while listening to music. In summer, I love to stitch on my deck outside while listening to the birds. I love Trish Burr kits!
My favorite listening is recorded books. I need my ears for that, but my eyes aren’t distracted as they are when watching TV. I can also stop the story when I need to and pick it up right where I left off. I am also more interruptable when someone else in the house needs me for something or just needs to talk. I can keep embroidering without missing an important piece of the TV show or movie.
Hi Mary:
I like to work in the quiet, in our living room where I can look up every so often and see outside. So far, I have not tried working on a project outside but now you have planted a seed. When summer returns I will definitely find a comfy place in the garden to embroider.
Thanks for this chance to win, those miniatures are so nice.
Regards
Ann Garrad, Canada
I just love those little kits – the little bluebirds make my heart go pitty-pat.
I stitch in the evenings while listening to TV – can’t say I actually watch much. I watch football on Sundays with my husband and I can’t tell you how much stitching I get done during those games. They show every place at least twice, so I always get to see them.
Mary,
Another wonderful giveaway opportunity – thanks.
I’ve stitched in all the ways you mention, depending on the concentration needed. “Social stitching” is often a prayer shawl, or an easy project. With TV, it’s a notch up – sometimes just during commercials. Have also listened to audio books — no visual distraction like TV. And sometimes it’s just me and the stitching, although I’ve been known to talk to myself and/or the project, too.
Happy Holidays!
I like to embroider while my husband watches TV, what he watches usually doesn’t interest me so I am free to stitch with minimal distraction.
Wow! These are just gorgeous. I would love to make this and give as a gift to a dear friend who is going through a difficult time.
I think Trish has the most beautiful stitching designs. Thanks again for the giveaway.
Judy
I like to “listen” to the T.V while I stitch. Older movies and classic T.V. are my preference. Thanks for this opportunity!
I love your blog and look forward to reading it each day. You have broadened my knowledge of embroidery immensely! Normally I am stitching in the evening while I sit with my husband watching the evening news. That just seems to be the time that I am sitting long enough to do much stitching. Although on vacation this summer i found some quiet afternoons to stitch in a shady spot where I could view a pieceful lake and watch birds flocking to a feeder.
I like music or podcasts so that there is something besides my stitching occupying my mind– the time goes faster! I do not find movies or TV good for me. I love having a project to work on at family gatherings. I got a whole set of tea towels done one visit from my in-laws! I recently turned half my office/guest room into a proper work area for stitching. I can open the blinds and watch the birds. But I guess I tent to sew inside where all my things are easily at hand!
I love those cute birds and I’d love to try needlepainting as I recently went to an exhibition of Japanese embroidery the pieces on display were exquisite and so finely worked they looked like paintings! Whilst doing a sewing project I like to listen to music, radio, recorded talks, podcasts etc, I can’t seem to get enough, I get absorbed in my little world of sewing and what’s playing on the ipod, my idea of heaven! Thank you for your daily inspirations Mary!
while stitching, I exist in a “white-out” state — few things around me register beyond the piece I’m currently stitching. It does help to have music (wonderful classical pieces, mellow jazz or — this time of year — Christmas classics) playing quietly in the background. A familiar piece of music will then call me out of the stitching for a while to give mind and eyes a break.
I’m sure the Trish Burr pieces will be very absorbing . . . and I know that should I receive them, it would be one of the best Christmases ever!
I prefer quiet when I work, no matter whether it’s embroidering, knitting, or other crafts. At most, listening to an audiobook (or perhaps a movie) that I know by heart, so I subconsciously know that I don’t have to pay attention to the external goings on, just to what I’m actually doing.
Thank you for hosting the giveaway!
When we had embroidery class in school, most of the time our class-teacher allowed us to sing songs and hymns in the class while embroidering. It used to be so much fun! Those days are a sweet memory now.
Now when I embroider, I like to play some of my favorite music but not too loud, just nice and soft music, sometimes songs.
Mary, this is a wonderful give-away, it will be a treasure to make these little beautiful pieces. Thanks to you and Trish!
I rarely “just” stitch. If I am at home I will have the tv on or be in conversation with whomever else is home at the time. I also carry a “to go” bag that is with me while waiting at the Doctors, Ortho, Dance Studio, etc. That way I can still have a conversation with others and also be productive with my time. Although anything that does require a bit of concentration must be done at a more quite time – but that is rare.
I LOVE your give aways – thank you. What a treat this would be to win! Early Christmas to me!!
I can say, that it depends. If I stitch something difficult, I like to stay alone in silence. But if it is something easy, simple, I can watch TV, listen to some audio book or talk with my friends. What I cannot do – I cannot read (but I knit while reading, if the pattern is simple, not the most difficult one…)
I like to have TV or music on . . . anything else (conversation, lectures, etc.) is too intellectually stimulating and is therefore distracting.
Hi Mary,
I like to embroider listening to music or in silence. I’m not good at keeping track of TV or conversation while embroidering, especially if I am trying out new stitches!
Thanks for this wonderful opportunity – Trish’s kits are amazing and I’d love to try my hand with miniature design.
Love to stitch either in peace and quiet or with soft music (no vocal) playing in the background. Sometimes in the warm weather with windows open it is wonderful to hear birds outside or water running in a stream. Heaven.
I have just discovered Trish Burr, thanks to you, so this give away is exciting!
I have embroidered many different gifts for family and friends for more than 55 years. I prefer either silence or Mozart when stitching,preferably with my darling husband enjoying his sudoku, or his books. I’m hoping for another 20 years of just the same!
Thank you for introducing me to both Tanya Berlin and Trish Burr- they are both fascinating artists.I am happy to enter your contest- miniatures are fun to do.
I ,too, have a cup of tea with you every day.
Wishing you a happy holiday season and a peaceful and fulfilling New Year! Evelynne from British Columbia , Canada
I would love to stitch the birds and daisies. I have them in our back yard garden. Since I am deaf, I like to watch tv while stitching, in the garden, or while traveling in the RV. I am also limited in my mobility so I stitch at least 4 hours a day! It is my passion and hobby! I love to stitch to make gifts for my family members and friends.
Thank you for the opportunity to stitch one of the give-away!
These kits are simply gorgeous.
I’d like to embroider outside in the patio, but I always get distracted by the birds – wrens singing, hummers at the feeders, chickadees calling to each other – and I never get anything done. So I prefer the quiet of my living room in the evening. There’s the sound of the tiny “pop” of the needle each time it pokes through the fabric, followed by the “hssss” of the thread as I pull it through. I love those sounds. Then I like to run my fingers over the stitches to feel the different textures. It’s odd how something can be so stimulating to the senses, yet calming and contemplative at the same time.
Thank you for this wonderful give-away and for your amazing website.
These are so beautiful, I have been looking at Trish Burr work for some time now and what better way to start than one of her miniatures. I love to stitch with my new sewing friends best,however I seem to make lots of mistakes and spend precious sewing time undoing them.So to get perfect stitching I find sitting outside at the cottage with beautiful surroundings and peace and productive sewing is my perfect pastime.What more could anyone ask for.
It depends on where I am..if I am at home it would be in my comfy chair by the window listening to music so I can glance up and catch the birds at the bird feeder too…I’ve been known to bring it along to the emergency room when my son got stitches….I also bring it to the cabin and sit on the dock by the water and listen to the sounds about me…I can basically stitch just about anywhere….I don’t like idle hands…so much to stich….so little time….
I love Trish Burr’s work, and have wanted to do one of her kits for ages. When I embroider I like to have some sort of sound going. It doesn’t matter if it’s music, the tv or a movie, or friends chatting. But I gravitate toward podcasts and audiobooks when it’s just me. Something a little intellectually stimulating.
Years ago from a bookseller at a Botanical event I purchased the book Redoutte’s Finest Flowers in Embroidery by Trish Burr. This book is wonderful and perfect for one who does embroidery and is also a botanist. I often look through the book and dream of stitching the flowers. Perhaps if I had a kit I would actually do so. Thank you and Trish for offering the kits.
I love to stitch with friends, for their companionship and help. I also like times of silence and the great outdoors. May you have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
I really like those little birds. Beautiful design of Trish’s. For as long as I can remember, I’ve done most of my needlework while watching TV. It’s almost as if I can’t do one without the other!
I like to listen to music why stitching. Those little birds are so cute, but I also like the flowers.
I like to take my stitching projects on vacations. I love looking back at my projects because they remind me of the places they visited with me. We mostly go camping so the projects smell like the campfire when we get home and need a bath just like everything else that came with us!
A giveaway-what a fun way to connect with your fellow stitchers! I’ve enjoyed reading through others’ comments.
Thanks to all for sharing,
Betsie
I stitch under each one of the scenarios that you listed, especially watching TV and listening to audiobooks. The most important part is to be stitching. Love those little birds – such pretty colors. Hope that they fly to my house.
I love to embroider while sitting on the couch whie my son is playing and my husband is watching TV. Seems so cozy with us all together in the family room!
Generalmente bordo con la television encendida, ademas de los gritos, risas y lloriqueos de mis hijas corriendo de un lado a otro!!! Saludos!!!
I like embroidering with the company of other embroiderers. They understand that when you don’t reply to their questions it’s not because you are being rude but are concentrating, and that they will comiserate when you have to unpick what you’ve just stitched.
If there is just me then I usually put the TV on as background noise.
I prefer sound and/or movement when embroidering. I usual have the television on (my daughter says I don’t watch TV. I just own one that works). I’ve stitched on planes, in bars, on beaches, on the side of cliffs, at meetings both social and business, … I actually completed an final design assignment during coffee and lunch breaks at work.
The only situation I don’t like is silence. It’s just too distracting.
I like to stitch while watching TV or listening to something. I would like to stitch while riding in the car, but that makes me motion sick. I love the Trish Burr kits, especially the blue birds.
Hi Mary,
As I work full time I generally stitch at night in front of the TV, however I often stitch in the staff room and enjoy the flow of conversation at lunch times!
Although I enjoy stitching in the company of other stitchers who share my passion, my best stitching is done while by myself stitching either to music, to silence or to the sounds of nature out my window/door. When stitching by myself, I can maximize my powers of concentration,and often think without “thinking”, create through no effort of my own, and feel closer to God.
I love to embroider out in the countryside. My husband likes to fish so we go out and I sit in the sun with my embroidery and my husband goes fishing. I have embroidered by many lakes, rivers and out in the bush. New zealand has so many lovely places to go and as we live in the caravan and travel around my embroidery has been done in some amazing and beautiful places. Trish Burrs embroideries are just the thing to take outside as they are so beautiful and as one with nature. I would love to recieve one of her kits to complete. Here’s hoping.
Merry Christmas to you all
I love those birds!
As for stitching environment I come from a large family so I almost always prefer some noises, it seems that if I don’t have any noise I can’t really concentrate!
I have to admit that I do most of my embroidery in front of the TV. But I’m quite happy to work on a project anywhere. 🙂
I love the beautiful kits! My preference is to stitch while watching television, except my favorite shows to which I devote all my attention!
“What do you prefer to be going on around you while you’re embroidering? ”
Ideally I’d prefer to listen to music and/or watch DVDs of favorite television shows, but it seems that lately I spend more time listening to my cat do Bad Kitty things — she’s taken to deliberately waiting for me to be in the middle of something before climbing up the underside of the stairs like a tabby-striped sloth or trying to knock mirrors off the walls!
(She’s been a little resentful of sewing projects ever since I had to buy a locking sewing box when she was a kitten — she’d figured out how to paw open the old flip-top one — because she’d taken to stealing skeins of floss and leaving them scattered on the floor like brightly colored breadcrumbs. Certainly a festive sight first thing in the morning, but a little bit annoying when she got into the active project and stole a color I wasn’t finished with yet. I never did find some of them….)
Such lovely kits. Count me in for this give away. I like listening to some soothing music in the background while I stitch