It may not seem to make sense for me to “review” a book here on Needle ‘n Thread that 1. isn’t available for the public; and 2. contains information you can find right here on Needle ‘n Thread. But I just have to share with you my joy and excitement, and my flabbergasted wonderment and gratitude, over this book!
The book is called The Marian Medallion Project, and if you’ve been reading Needle ‘n Thread for at least a year, you are probably really familiar with the project.
Last year, it was my one major project in the first half of the year, and I blogged it from beginning to end, with all the sordid little details, instructional points, tips, ideas, materials – you name it. You can find the project listed under the Marian Medallion Project Index, if you aren’t familiar with it but are curious about it.
Well, Cindy, a reader here on Needle ‘n Thread, was practicing using InDesign and enjoyed following the Medallion Project, so she used the blog posts to compile a completely thorough book on the project, for her own personal use. She kindly sent me a copy – a complete and utter surprise!
Now, before you are shocked or horrified that someone “published” a book essentially written by me without my knowledge, please understand that the content on Needle ‘n Thread is for your personal use, and Cindy compiled it into an easily accessible form for herself (for personal use) and printed it using a print-on-demand service, to be able to follow the project away from the computer. It would be like your printing my articles on a particular project or series, so that you can refer to them while you work on the same project, away from the computer. And that’s fine! As long as you’re not compiling articles and selling them or republishing them on another website, there’s nothing wrong with that.
Cindy did a magnificent job making this whole aggregate on the Medallion project! The book (which is just short of 300 pages) is divided into three sections: The Rose, The Medallion, and Techniques. It begins with a thorough table of contents.
And by thorough, I mean thorough! There’s an appendix and an index as well.
The introduction was so beautifully written and said such nice things about me that I was trying to figure out who Cindy was talking about! It was humbling, to say the least. It does give the backstory of the Medallion Project as well, so I went ahead and read the whole thing, and I found it really interesting and very satisfying to see another person’s perspective on the project.
You might not know this, but I often write and prepare and photograph and work through things and post them on Needle ‘n Thread, having no real idea if people will actually be interested. Often, it’s a “fingers-crossed-wait-and-see” game. Am I wasting my time? Am I wasting everyone else’s time? Is this something people want to know about? I don’t always know! Bloggers like me rely on reader interaction and comments, questions and suggestions, to let us know whether or not the subject has struck a cord, whether there is real interest in it (and therefore, whether it’s worth ever writing about again!).
With the Medallion project, there was quite a bit of interaction, so it was pleasant to blog about it because I knew people had some interest. Of course, there were people who didn’t like the project – I got e-mails saying things like, “Please stop writing about this project… This is beyond my capabilities… I’m not interested in religious embroidery… I don’t like goldwork… This project is boring…” and so forth. But because those were not as common as the enthusiastic response (though the negative ones do knock one down a bit!), I kept plugging ahead with it.
To read a sincere recap of the project and what it meant to one individual is quite a boost, to say the least. It made me appreciate the project and realize its value, in a way that I hadn’t before. Thank you, Cindy!
There’s also a section about the Medallion itself and its symbolism, as well as its intended use, compiled from the content on the website, replies in comments, and so forth.
And then there’s the body of the book. The body of the book is made up of every blog post on the project, and every related article on the website as well. So, any articles that I linked to for further information are also included in the book! Each article is followed by a little box that gives the original date of publication on the website.
“Further information” blurbs are included at the end of each article as well, along with the page numbers in the book where you can find the information. Everything is thoroughly cross referenced, so finding my way back through the project and following my own line of thought at the time I was working on it is incredibly easy. Unbelievable amount of work in this type of thorough cross referencing!
Additional comments are included at the end of each article, too. These are questions and answers that took place in the comment section of the site on each article, and the ones that contain helpful, clarifying information are printed as well. And, even on the comments, there are cross references to other chapters in the book or articles on the website!
And the whole book is printed in color! The color scheme matches Needle ‘n Thread. And there are so many little, thoughtful details in the layout – from ending chapters with the little Tudor rose, to a beginning image at the top of each chapter page that has to do with the topic covered in the chapter. Cindy took a lot of care in making the book visually pleasing!
There’s some white space throughout the book, too, and because it’s a project book, I’m so glad of that. I invariably take notes in project books, but they rarely have any white space in them, so I take notes in the margins. When I use this book as a reference on future projects – and I will! It’ll be so easy to look things up! – I’ll be able to write notes, reminders, and so forth within the book.
The Techniques section of the book contains every indirect blog post that I linked to within the Medallion Project articles, wherever I referred people to earlier posts or tutorials on Needle ‘n Thread for instruction or information.
This brought home some points that I haven’t really dwelt on before:
1. There is a lot of information on Needle ‘n Thread. Believe it or not, I don’t always realize that. And it seems really weird to think that I wrote it all.
2. Wow. I talk too much!
The book ends with an utterly thorough index, with every technical term, product, stitch, etc. listed here, with page numbers. This fascinated me. Whatever did I say about Eterna stranded silk? Or flat silk, keeping vertical? Or slip knots?
And finally, Cindy included the book in PDF form on a DVD, beautifully labeled. The PDF is loaded with active links – every item in the table of contents, every cross reference in the book, every page number in the index, even direct links to the website for tutorials, articles, etc. – these are all clickable and take me right to the spot. And it works on my iPad, too!
Wow. This was pretty humbling, but pretty thrilling at the same time. The Medallion Project was definitely a big project, and I loved doing it and blogging about it. But formatting and laying out this book – that was a big project, too! And I can’t believe it when I look at it, that someone thought enough of the Medallion Project to take this kind of time to put together this book.
Words just can’t say it, but thank you so much, Cindy, and thank you, each of you, who takes an interest in Needle ‘n Thread. When it comes down to it, you’re the raison d’être behind Needle ‘n Thread – and so… hm. I’m speechless. Just thank you.
The Marian Medallion Project E-Book is Now Available!
A little update, March 29: The Marian Medallion E-Book is now available in the Needle ‘n Thread Shop! You can find it, along with a thorough description, here!
Mary,
This is fantastic and a worthy homage to your beautiful work.
Did you ever get a picture of the medallion mounted on the vestment? I don’t remember seeing one?
Andrew
Hi, Andrew – Well, the Medallion was out of my hands by the time the vestment was assembled. The last post on the project is on this page: https://needlenthread.wpengine.com/2012/05/appliquing-hand-embroidery.html – and I just realized it is not on the index. So I will put it there. You can see the medallion on the fabric, but the vestment is not assembled. In fact, there were three more articles on the subject after the Medallion embroidery was finished, and I just realized (thanks to your question!) that they were never added to the index, so I’ve updated that now. Thanks a bunch! ~MC
I’m in awe of Cindy! But, my comment is directed at those who would complain to you about a particular project or technique. Why would anyone expect you to only write about subjects that interest them. That is the height of self conceit.
Heh heh heh…. welcome to the world of blogging!
You kind of learn to live with it after a while. As my mom says, you can’t please everyone! Or … “you can please some of the people most of the time, and most of the people some of the time, but you can’t please all the people all the time.” And I suppose people want to be heard, and they feel a bit of “ownership” with the sites they get involved in, so they express their opinions. I don’t mind! It gets it off their chest, I suppose. Doesn’t mean I’ll actually conform, though! Thanks for your comment, Christine!
This is fantastic! Congratulations to you both, Mary for the initial inspiration and work, and Cindy for the all the effort in the compilation.
Is there any chance that the two of you might publish this in this format for the benefit of the rest of us? I, personally, would love to have a copy.
Thanks, Lesley-Anne … well, we might have to have a chat about that. The difficulty is that, for print-on-demand books, the price is quite high. As an e-book, that seems more feasible. But we haven’t really discussed it, so we’ll see! ~MC
Mary & Cindy,
What a phenomenal job! I’ve been following this project from beginning to end. I hope you will offer the printed book as well as the CD for sale. I would love to get them both! I wouldn’t mind paying for a print-on-demand book. I hope you can set something up.
Best,
MWK
Mary,
#1-DON’T stop talking!
2. Yes, much of what you do is light-years beyond my skill level, BUT-I find it fascinating and instructive and inspiring and amazing. DON’T stop talking!
and 3). Cindy DID do a magnificent job-Wow! She is just a little bit wonderful, yes? I know by the quality of the printed piece that it was a labor of love for her. Pollsters say that for every 1 person who responds to a poll there are 10,000 with like-minded views. I believe there are many of us out here who read your blog DAILY and enjoy watching and learning, so….you guessed it-DON’T stop talking!
With thanks,
Chrissie
Thanks, Chrissie! I think it would be easier for me to stop eating than to stop talking. Well… almost. Depends on what’s for dinner, I guess!
Wow! Doesn’t that look superb? You are one lucky bunny, Mary. But most of that splendour is YOUR work, that you’ve given us so generously over the years and it’s great to see it presented in a form that does it such great justice.
I’m sure there are goldwork enthusiasts and church embroiderers who will be drooling over your beautiful book and wanting their own copies, whether or not most of it is right here online for free. So I imagine that if you and Cindy came to some mutually amicable arrangement over the charges and the copyrights, you could both have some very well-deserved reward for your labours of love.
Thanks, Sue! We haven’t really discussed that angle. I suppose if there is a real interest, it might be worthwhile, and worth broaching the subject. The print-on-demand part is a little tricky, as it’s very expensive to do that. E-books are more feasible, and then if someone wants to print it out, they can. But … haven’t quite gotten to that discussion yet. Cindy does beautiful work when it comes to layout and design, that’s for sure! Very professional! ~MC
Well of course, I want this book too!!!!
Well, if it ever comes available, I’ll let you know, Annie!
WOW! What a beautiful work of art the book is, in celebration of your beautiful work of art. The obvious question is whether Cindy will make it available to others. I find it hard to believe that anyone complained about any post on the medallion project. I couldn’t wait for each one. You are a wonder and must know how much your readers appreciate all the time and talent you share with us each day. Thank you. And thank you, Cindy.
Thanks, Jane! I’m so glad you enjoyed the whole series. Hard to believe it was a whole year ago! Must start a new one (goldwork project series – not Medallion!) ~MC
WOW! What a wonderful tribute to your work Mary and an invaluable resource for Cindy! PLEASE don’t stop your blogging!! I have learned so much in the past year on threads, needles, stitches, fabrics, etc…I probably will never achieve all of it, but I do love to read & dream about it (and play a little bit)!
Thank you so much for sharing all your insights, trials and accomplishments.
Hi, Jan – Oh, no worries – I won’t stop blogging any day soon, if I can help it. Of course, there’s always the possibility of a natural disaster – like Kansas falling into the ocean – and that might keep me quiet for a bit! ~MC
Cindy and you both deserve pats on the back for this project. It is not a project I want to under take but I did enjoy seeing your process and the techniques involved. Just think if every elaborate piece of embroidery had a book on how it was done with it.
Keep up the good work!
Amazing! Do I see PDF books offered on CD in the future?………
Not quite sure, Linda, but if so, I’ll definitely let everyone know!
Mary, every morning I start my day by reading your blog over my first cup of coffee. I have learned so much from your site and it inspires me to try different embroidery techniques and organize my work space. Please don’t stop talking. We are listening and enjoying being part of your life. As for the book, well what a wonderful way to remember the project, how lovely of Cindy to do that.
Hi, Linda! I love that image of people starting the day with a cup of coffee, reading the blog. I do the same thing on my side of the computer – pour a cup, and sift and filter email and read people’s comments, correspond, and work on new articles. It’s like keeping up with a whole bunch of good friends, and it’s a nice way to start the day!
Dear Mary
What a lovely idea and what a lovely gift for you. I thoroughly enjoyed the Madellion project and even used some of your tips and techniques on goldwork and layed satin stitch for the Agnes Dei project that I embroidered. I also enjoy and like ecclesiastical embroidery and I have followed with anticipation all your ecclesiastical projects. I love looking back on your articles and more often than not when I am researching a needlework project you have written an article about it.
Like Cindy I think your encouragement,enthuasium, generousity, inspiration, advice, expertise on all needlework related subjects on Needle n Thread are invaluable and everyday I look forward with great interest to your next article because I know it will not be boring it will be full of tips and techniques for the aspiring embroider. You give so much and your encouragement and advice to those of us aspiring to perfection in embroidery is priceless. If the book was on sale I for one would not hesitate in obtaining it.
Regards Anita Simmance
Oh I forgot to say I think Cindy did a fantastic job it must have been a labour of love. Well done Cindy. Wonderful.
Regards Anita Simmance
Hi, Anita! Thank you! Well, I look forward to hearing from you every day, too! I enjoy your comments and enthusiasm, and when I don’t hear from you in the morning, I think to myself, “I wonder what Anita’s up to today?” If the book is ever made available, I’ll certainly let you know! ~MC
Uh, there is an obvious comment here. Perhaps you and Cindy should work on a book – say all of the stitch pdfs already for sale here, the Stitch Play blogs and the instructions for specific stitches, along with the recent swirly play project and a couple of other projects that you design for the purpose, put them all together, get it to one of the electronic publishers and sell it on amazon.
An intermediate to advanced book would be a bit of boon to the market, especially one that covered a wide variety of surface embroidery techniques and some difficult stitches. Even good stitch dictionaries often have hard to interpret instructions for some of the more difficult stitches – the Laced Herringbone and Plaited Braid spring to mind.
I know you are busy Mary, but with a partner to do the actual writing and organizing – something this lady obviously excels at – would you consider it?
Anastasia McP
Cindy – Amazing job on the booklet!
Hi, Anastasia – I’m always open to considering anything!
But then, that’s probably part of my problem. Considering is always easier than doing. I do have a couple e-books in the works right now, but I get hung up on the formatting & layout work – always rushed for getting other stuff done. The problem with “hiring out” is that it significantly increases the price of things, and I’ve always wanted to keep anything I offer on NNT as accessible as possible. But, these are things I’ve been mulling over for a while, so … we shall see! Thanks for your comment! ~MC
Dear Mary, Congratulations to you and Cindy. I think the two of you must seriously think of doing a joint venture. Although it is nice to have stuff on the internet, a book is better, like you say , away from the computer. I must say thanks to you too, I learned a lot from you. Sometimes you had stuff on I was not really interest in, but it never stopped from reading your blog. Wish you well for the future and many more informative blogs
xxx Elza Cape Town.
Wow! I edit mathematical manuals to earn money to pay for my embroidery so I know how much work was involved in producing a booklet such as this. Even if Cindy was using tools like XML and XSLT and a powerful text editor that allows her to do regular expression search/replace sequences, this is a HUGE task and it looks beautifully done. Well done, Cindy.
Mary, you are so much loved and appreciated by your followers. I know that from the comments left on your posts and from mentions of you on the forums I belong too. When new hands ask where they can learn embroidery techniques invariably they are directed to Needle’n’Thread. Just today in responce to a question about dressing a slate frame your tutorial was mentioned. I no longer consider myself a new hand but I am constantly learning new things from your blog and look forward to reading it every day.
I cannot believe that you get negative emails! I read a great many blogs; those I follow because I enjoy them and those I follow links to from other blogs. If a particular post is not of interest to me, I scroll past it. I would not dream of leaving a comment saying “This is boring” or “Stop writing about this” that is just plain rude! Happily for me, you and I enjoy mostly the same types of embroidery so virtually all of your posts I find very interesting but the occasional post that is of less interest to me I know that someone else with enjoy and benefit from. Yours is a great blog and we are lucky that you share so willingly with us. Thank you!
Thanks, Carol-Ann!
I know – the work that went into the book is absolutely incredible, isn’t it?
Oh, the negative emails. That’s just part of blogging, methinks. (I actually even get yelled at by some people – but that’s always kind of fun!). I don’t really mind – I like to hear people’s opinions, what they like and don’t like. It’s just that some people need to work on “tact.”
Thanks a bunch for your comment – and for enjoying the website!
~MC
I’m so in awe and flabbergasted I hardly know what to say. You said it already, Mary! Wow. Wowsers. What a terrific project, beautifully done. Wow.
Hi, Maureen! You sound like me! I spent a whole hour after opening the box saying pretty much nothing but “WOW”! ~MC
Wow! What a lovely idea! I followed the project with interest, anticipation and awe!! I would definitely welcome this book on my bookshelf! Any plans to publish either as an ebook or paperback? (Please!) Best wishes, Nina Broderick
Hi, Nina – Well, if the Medallion Project book ever becomes available, I promise to let everyone know. We shall see… Thanks for your enthusiasm! ~MC
That is an amazingly thorough, thoughtful and generous gift–which your own generosity richly deserved.
Congratulations, Cindy, it was a total hit! (and wow, awesome job!)
Thanks, Aztec! ~MC
Amazing – overused word, but insufficient for this entire project. I too start my morning with your blog – far more uplifting than the news! With all the work that you and Cindy put into this project, I do hope some type of publishing collaboration is considered.
Even for those of us who may be intimidated by the overall project – inspiration and the tutorials are still part of our learning process.
I hope you will consider, making the project available to all of us some time soon!
Hi, Sandra! Thanks for your comment! Just to let you know, the project is available in full here on the website, so you can always go through the posts and see it as it unfolds. You can find the whole index of each article here: https://needlenthread.wpengine.com/2011/11/church-embroidery-marian-design.html If it ever does come about in book or e-book form, I’ll definitely let everyone know! Thanks again! ~MC
I’m going to ditto what Christine said. My first reaction was WOW, even tho I won’t be doing anything like this, I would love to have this book. I love books! LOL. Then when I read about the people complaining I was like Christine…
“I’m in awe of Cindy! But, my comment is directed at those who would complain to you about a particular project or technique. Why would anyone expect you to only write about subjects that interest them. That is the height of self conceit”
There have been a number of posts I doubt I’ll ever use, I don’t always read entirely, etc. BUT, I never know- I MIGHT use them someday, and this blog isn’t for me, it’s for a vast public who may like to know whatever it is. Your blog has been so enjoyable. Even the ones I may not use, I still like to at least glance thru, read a bit, look at the photos. Thank you Mary for all you do.
I have been working on a very small art project and hope to finish soon. Painting and needlework. I would like to send you a photo when it’s done if I can get a decent one and can figure out where to send it!
Thanks, Carol! DO send a photo – you can email to mary(at)needlenthread(dot)com whenever you want! ~MC
What an amazing compliment!
Beautiful work, both on the stitching and book! If it were available today, I would have already purchased it. There is nothing like having a book in hand especially when it covers one of my favorite subjects ecclesiastical embroidery.
Thank you both!
Maria
Ahhhh, Maria – ME TOO. I love books on ecclesiastical embroidery. I can never get enough of them! If it ever becomes available, I’ll announce it here on Needle ‘n Thread. ~MC
Wow! What a great tribute to both of your technical abilities. I am really impressed! I have enjoyed your blog so much, and even though much of your work is beyond my skill level, I really appreciate seeing your process and the joy and generosity you share every day. One of the things I love best in life is seeing someone who loves what they do doing it really well! Kudos to you both!
Thanks, Toya!
It’s amazing that a book can be produced so easily these days and Cindy, you did a wonderful job with it. It looks so professional! What a lovely thing to do for Mary.
I’m not surprised, Mary, that you gave enough info. to write a book. You do that all the time. There are many potential books nestled in your blog. I have learned so much from you over the years I could never begin to thank you enough. It’s hard to imagine anyone complaining about your blogs, but it takes all kinds, I guess. Even if I know I’d never do the projects you blog about, I read them every day and always learn something to apply to my life of needlework.
I’m with Chrissie…Please do not stop talking!
Thanks, Linda! Ok, I promise I won’t stop talking – if I have anything to say about it. God could always decide otherwise, I suppose…!
Kudos to both of you! You and Cindy are very talented individuals, and your generosity with your gifts is overwhelming. Thank-you for sharing!!
Thank you, Laura! ~MC
Hello Mary!
What a beautiful book! When I saw you working on that particular project, the only thing I could think of is that I wanted to do it. Everything about it is just beautiful. Now that I see this book it makes me want to do it even more. Books are always helpful to me in doing projects, they help me understand everything much easier. If you ever do sell some I would love to buy one from you.
Thank you for your beautiful website it is truly inspiring!
Best,
Camille Van Fleet
Thanks, Camille! I hope you do undertake the Medallion project one day! It is “big” but satisfying! If a book every comes about for the public, I’ll definitely let you know! ~MC
Mary,
Your article to day made me feel warm and cozy….. it’s great that one of us readers had the insight to put your project in book format.
The million dollar question is – where can I buy it. Would you consider publishing the book?
Amanda
Ahhh, Amanda! We shall see, we shall see – it is definitely the million dollar question. Thank you for your enthusiasm! ~MC
Oh! Mary and Cindy,
I hope things work out so that this might be available in print form – of any sort. I go back to the articles on the Medallion Project so often, and having the book available would be – well, wonderful! The information on line is so valuable, but there is something about having a book in hand….
Compliments to you both for a job well done.
Thanks, Carrie! If it does come about, I’ll definitely let you know!! ~MC
Don’t let the grumblers get you down, Mary. I am in the vast majority who truly appreciate both your knowledge and your excellence in communication. I’ll probably never embroider an egg, but it is fun to see that it can be done. And thanks to you I’ve tried thread painting, which has helped me view color and contrast in a new light. (no pun intended there).
Hi, Marilyn – Thank you! Oh, I never let the turkeys get me down. I am more of a duck – the proverbial water rolls right off the back!
Thank you so much for your kind comment! ~MC
Please add me to the list of people who would purchase this book in print-on-demand form. What an excellent project! And as far as “talking too much” — not at all! I am not a master needleworker, and I appreciate every word and every picture. Congratulations to you, Mary, and also to Cindy.
Mary,
I followed your Medallion project with great interest, and learned a lot by reading your progress, “wart and all”. Cindy’s compilation is a recognition of the effort you put into the project and your website.
Sounds as if this would be fabulous reference book. How can I get a copy of the disk? I haven’t done any ‘print on demand’. Any recommendations?
Excellent collaboration!
First, I’m stunned that anyone would have the nerve to complain about the content of your blog.
Second, I’m stunned that a person would do something as wonderful as compiling all the posts about a particular project, having it published and SENDING you a copy!
There’s good people and not so good people among us.
I gave myself a wonderful gift when I subscribed to your blog updates. I don’t care what kind of mood I’m in when I open that email, I am in awe and delighted when I see the beautiful pictures and terrific information you share so generously. Most of what you do is way beyond my current capabilities, but that doesn’t mean I don’t devour every crumb of beauty that you show.
I would buy a copy of that book in a heartbeat.
Dear Mary,
Go Cindy!! That was an amazing thing she did lots of information to collect and consolidate and boy did she grab the bull by the horns.
and Mary I thoroughly enjoy reading Needle N’ Thread it’s one of the reasons I started to embroider again just looking at all the wonderful things you’ve created over the years gives me such inspiration. I often check this blog every other day if not daily and I look forward to what you’ll do next, as always keep up the good work!
Please, please, allow us to buy the book. I have been a faithful follower of yours ever since a friend in my stitch group turned me on to your blog. I look forward to reading about your latest endeavor every morning.
The book would be such a help to be able to have it open during stitching or to take it with when traveling. I take my embroidery everywhere, just in case I may have to wait awhile for what ever service for which I am in line. Thanks so much for being a reliable source for stitching encouragement.
P.S. Please allow us to buy the book!
Kathleen
OK, I’m crying my eyes out right now. Yes, you are a wonderful and talented woman. Yes, your blog is amazing in the details and variety of things you share with us. Personally, the medallion is probably my favorite of all you’ve shown here since I’ve been visiting. No, I don’t have the level of skill it takes to make such a thing. I am intimidated by goldwork. But that doesn’t mean I can’t love watching you create such beauty.
So why am I crying? Finding out that there are still such loving, giving people in the world. The fact that Cindy would devote so much time and work into making this for you and herself gives me hope. I’ve been dealing with some very ugly issues in my own personal life and have been feeling hopeless. It’s so good to know there are nice people just a computer click away.
Wow! That is so very impressive! I love reading your blog and do so almost every day. What a fabulous idea and using technology for good! I am fascinated with Indesign and currently in the job market where it is asked for as a skill to be proficient at. This inspires to delve more into that product. I often share stitches with my mother who steadfastly refuse to join in the online fun. She has seen you medallion project from start to finish though! Thanks for your hard work and congratulations on this lovely tribute.
Hi Mary,
What a wonderful book!! I often wish you had written book after book because I love the way you talk about embroidery and your videos are so awesome and the most helpful on the web. I look forward to your emails every day, I love everything about your site, and I want to reassure you from the bottom of my heart that I am far from alone. There is a huge community of fans out here!! You have made it possible for me to really progress in my embroidery, by clearly teaching stitches that seemed impossible to me, and I am very grateful. As my work gets better and better and makes me prouder and prouder, I owe you an even greater debt. You’re fantastic. And Cindy did an amazing job — maybe you can make the CD available online?
That is an amazing book. So impressive. Having read all the blog posts I think it would be a wonderful resource for anyone interested in that sort of embroidery even if not for that particular design. I know all the posts are on the blog but it is so well put together and indexed and so on I think it would be worth buying as an ebook.
I’m sorry you’ve had some negative comments. I love your blog and it’s inspired me to start embroidering which I love. I don’t comment often though.
Not all the styles and techniques ‘grab’ me but they are always interesting I always learn something. I can’t see myself embroidering eggs but I can’t wait to read how it’s done.
I haven’t done any goldwork yet, but I will – you have given me the information and confidence I need to try.
May your blogging continue for a very long time.
Wow! This looks fabulous! My compliments to Cindy for an exceptional job done on a worthy subject – what a neat idea!
This is amazing Mary – what a wonderful job Cindy has created out of the wonderful work you have done. Like others have commented I have enjoyed reading about the process despite knowing I will never take on project like this. But I am in awe of your skill and willingness to take the time to plan, design, stitch, photograph and write about it. I know this takes an inordinate amount of time -so boo hoo to the moaners I say! I love your blog and have learnt so much from you – and I agree with everyone else, this could be the start of something fab between you and Cindy!
Really? she made a book out of your blog posts? That is really sweet. Well, you deserve such a gift Mary.
Hi Mary,
What a wonderful tribute from someone that admires your work. Well done on both sides.
If you and Cindy do pursue the publishing of the book, that would be great. To have the printed page in front of one makes things easier sometimes, Or if you live in Hawaii where the electricity likes to go out, the printed page is still there. Please, I hope you both consider this opportunity.
Aloha,
ji
I’m sorry. I don’t have time to read all the comments, maybe I’ll repeat some of them.
I started to look at the photos and I could not believe that you had time to write a book after all the work you do for your blog.
Then I read the story. I can’t believe it. From what I can see on the photos, it is a work of a professional. It is so beautifully done. As you say Cindy catched all the details to keep the style of your blog. It is marvellous. BRAVO!!!
About negative comments. How come someone could complain about the content of your blog? If one doesn’t like it, she doesn’t need to read it.
Please, don’t stop. I’m learning so many different things with your blog. Learning is my passion.
Dear Mary,
You never talk too much. And you write as if you are talking in the room with us, all over the world. Wonderful!!!! And a fantastic project, Cindy.
Mary, this is just beyond words! The book is wonderful and a perfect way to say “thank you” for giving so freely of yourself. Cindy did an amazing job. Such talent – kudos to both of you!
Cheers,
Linda A
Ontario, Canada
Now I’m jealous. This book sounds like just what I’d love to read. I am pretty new to your blog and I look forward to opening my mail each day. thank you for such well presented and interesting information.
Lynn
When you have no words, all you can say is WOW.
What wonderful gifts to us all. Firstly the gift of yourself, Mary, in your marvellous, regular interesting blogs, full of inspiration and practical advice and teaching. And secondly, the fact that Cindy has taken the time and used her talent to produce a book like this is amazing and a fantastic complement to you. I am sure that many Embroiderer’s would love to have a copy of this book in one form or another.
Please don’t stop blogging, Mary. Yours is the first appointment that I keep over breakfast each morning and I LOVE it!
Isabel
Hi Mary,
I had not discovered your Blogs a year ago so I didn’t see your Medallion Project, but seeing your Tutorials and reading your Blogs every day I know it must have been so interesting. I would have been one of those people to cheer you on. I Don’t think I will ever do an Egg Project (but never say never)but each day I can’t wait to see what you have done and what you have learned and in turn teach me and others the where to’s and what for’s. I have learned so much from you and you have inspired me to take up embroidery again from my childhood days and I thank you so much from the bottom of my heart. Keep talking too much cause we are listening.
Love your Art!
Tippy
Two “wows”….one for Cindy and her splendid book and one for you for the Marian medallion project. No matter what you do, someone will complain or find some sort of fault with it. Those folks always have time to post a negative comment. Many people who were inspired by your entry, didn’t have time to post a reply because you inspired them to grab a needle and start embroidering!
omygosh! how wonderful…Cindy ROCKS! I too would very much be interested in purchase if possible..I have never read a negative comment on here, but…please ignore ANY! you are amazing …u do beautiful things…and are a superb teacher…I LOVE YOUR BLOG! Wish I had your talent, but if I want to know something this is where to look! I just loveyou!
Mary,
Never, ever doubt the value and impact of your work. This is the most enjoyable interesting and varied embroidery blog on the net. Its a not to be missed part of my day and I would be devastated if you were to listen to people who haven’t the patience or manners to realise that they are spoiled rotten by such an incredible free resource. You’ve introduced me to books and equipment, designers and materials. I’ve just completed a whole series of projects inspired by stitches, ideas and patterns from your site. Thank you so much for all your hard work.
Wow great job to both of you!
No you don’t talk too much! I discovered your blog in the middle of the medallion project and was so fascinated! It was of course way over my head, and I’ve never worked with silk, much less gold, but it was so beautiful and so well explained that I felt maybe I could. You are an inspiration to me every day. The first thing I do when I get home from work is check for your post. And I miss you on the weekends. I’m so glad that someone prepared that book for you, your work deserves such tribute. Yes , someone is always interested and paying attention. Me! Lots of others too.
Mary, you must have felt very honoured when Cindy’s gift arrived. And rightly so. Good on you Cindy for the fabulous job putting it together. What talent.
I found your site after the medallion project was finished and loved going through it all. Such beautiful workmanship. Now to see it in book form adds its appeal.
I love receiving your emails and see what treasures you have in store for us!
How thrilling it must be to know that your work inspired such a grand effort in someone else! Congratulations!
I read every post, even if it regards a technique, material, or project that I’m not interested in–yet. No knowledge is wasted, as my grandpa would say.
Dear Mary,
what a beautiful gift! Amazing! And yes, be careful with the contents of your blog. I had one, and with the change of hosting server I lost almost the whole content, and the pictures that were in it. Sad, but I have nice memories of it. I hope you make backups regularly, because it would be very sad if all your blogs are lost.
Ann in The Netherlands
I’m like everybody else on here, Mary, the task Cindy undertook is mindboggling. I tried to compile all the posts in order for myself for hard copy and found the task totally beyond my skill set and i’m no slouch when it comes to computers. then I wanted to load it to my Kindle Touch but grey scale for the beautiful pictures was a total disappointment. i’ve since acquired a kindle fire hd and would love, LOVE, LOVE to have a copy of this for my Kindle. although i have all the posts downloaded to my pc in one document, it leaves a lot to be desired, such as organization and cross references, not to mention a beautiful layout. Cindy’s mind is very analytical i think.
The medallion itself is mindboggling too! i shared the website with many of my stitchy friends and shop owners be they needlepoint, cross stitch, etc., anyone, in fact, who would let me show it to them. Each of them just stared in awe at the finished medallion.
Please do not stop expanding our knowledge. There are always going to be people who complain but hey, all they have to do is click delete if they’re not interested. your mother is right, you can’t please everybody all the time and don’t know why anyone would want to. debate is a wonderful thing.
i learned basic embroidery at my grandmother’s knee at age 8 but never did a whole lot of it. crewel left me cold and there wasn’t much available out there other than stamped and that was not very inspiring. Since i started reading NNT i’ve done a couple of things you’ve done on here, including the Tudor Rose. I put it in the lid of a needle box for a gift to my 95 year old friend and although i couldn’t afford the silks and gold threads i made do with DMC and Kreiniks and my fried was overjoyed at receiving just a unique gift, so, yeah don’t stop talking. even if we can’t duplicate the exact project we can take bits and pieces and spread the joy and enjoy the journey. so please continue to be an inspiration to those of who want to be inspired and yes, please let us know if this book becomes available in PDF (which is, IMHO for what it’s worth, probably the most cost effective way of reproducing it). Print on demand is wonderful if not very affordable but with pdf we can print it out ourselves, load it onto whatever electronic device we have avaialbe and take it with us one way or the other.
So MAJOR KUDOS to you and Cindy both for a job very very well done and thanks!
sharyn
What a wonderful book/DVD Cindy put together! This project was Totally Worthy of such treatment. I know the final vestment was never shown on your blog, but I keep hoping that someday, someone will send one.
As far as those who write saying “don’t write about….”, I say Get A Life! or better yet “Get Your Own Blog!”. Then you can write about what pleases yourself and will realize how much work it is to get the wonderful photos Mary does, not to mention the damned fine writing about all kinds of needlework and reviews she does. HARUMPF!!!
Regarding your not realizing how much stuff you have on your site, maybe it’s time for a site redesign again? JUST KIDDING!!!
I may never tackle a project as ambitious as this one, but I loved following your progress. The techniques you used were fascinating. I’ve always admired the religious embroidery for the amount of work that goes into it.
Wow Cindy what an awesome idea. You clearly have more gifts than just embroidery.
Mary & Cindy – I bet you could sell this!
xx
I want to know more! I fairly recently joined your newsletters, and so have not had the privilege of reading this particular project. If this is your work and organized by Cindy, couldn’t you come to an agreement to sell it to us, please, please, pretty please?
I’ve come to embroidery because of an interest in creating ecclesiastical items of various kinds.
Your website and all the information is FANTASTIC!!! I can’t begin to thank you for the carefully prepared information. I was directed to your website by someone I met on a Royal School of Needlework ecclesiastical embroidery course, and have been so very grateful for the pictures and videos which make the stitches so clear and easy to follow.
Dear Mary
A wonderful outcome and duly deserved. You did a mountain of work on the medallion project and then very generously shared your tips and experiences with us. Could I suggest that an e-book would be appreciated, if you do go ahead with production in the future?
Hi Mary, Wow (again)! Your job on the medallion was so lovely! (I just bought my supplies to make a Tudor Rose.) I learned a lot from your posts. Cindy did a phenomenal job with the book! I just finished a small InDesign class and am using it ever so humbly on my projects. I emailed your blog post to my teacher, so he would have a really cool example of what can be done with InDesign to share with other classes and students. Thank you both so much for a very enriching endeavor all the way around! Lynn
Mary, I stumbled upon your blog when searching for new knitting techniques. I cross stitch pattern kits, occasionally, but that’s the extent of my embroidery abilities. Doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate your fine art thoughh, and I love to see and read about the beautiful things you (amd others) can make. I’m a little jealous that I just can’t, but since I knit, I’m ok with just reading about it. In my opinion, the point of a blog is a journal of something that YOU, the AUTHOR, enjoy. If I enjoy it enough too, I’ll read it. If not, well, my loss for missing out on something wonderful. All that said, congratulations to Cindy for HER wonderful piece of art work as well. It must have taken her a good amount of time and effort to create such a detailed project, and for her to share with you was a great gift. As many others have posted here, I’d be very interested in a copy if you ever do choose to publish for public use, and I’ll take it a step further: though I realize it may not be as easy since you continue to add to the index, I’d be interested in a similar book or series of books of your stitch fun series. At any rate, thank you for sharing your passion with us, thanks to Cindy for creating this beautiful book and sharing with you, and thank you again for sharing your gift with us. Keep it up!
Mary,
I am delighted that you have collected all the data and published your book the Medallion Project. It will be a valuable resource for many future stitchers.
I hope that you are delighted with the results of all your hard work and are congratulating yourself on achieving this.
Congratulations from me,
Ann
A wonderful homage indeed. Yay Cindy.
Hi,
It is a impresive work. Have it ? It is a dreame for me ;-).
In paper of epub format.
I am late to the party, as usual, but what a spectacular book Cindy made!! I do hope you find a way to publish it, I would love a copy, even though I don`t do goldwork, this was just one of the most beautiful projects I have ever seen!
Don`t listen to the grumblers…you are doing a wonderful job with N&T…I don`t always comment but I always read!
mj