We’re in the last month of 2013, and although I’m probably not the most organized person in the world, I do actually attempt to keep a semblance of order and organization in my life, by way of Planning Ahead.
I find that if I have some kind of plan to follow – some kind of long-term schedule and short-term schedule so I know where I want to go and what I need to do to get there – I’m a much happier person. And this is especially true here on Needle ‘n Thread.
Planning ahead is super-essential, if I want to keep Needle ‘n Thread alive. And I couldn’t do it without you. I would have no interest in keeping Needle ‘n Thread going, if I didn’t have such an interesting and engaging audience.
And that brings me to how you can help me do what I do, better than I’m now doing it.
I have some questions for you, and your answers may very well determine our direction on Needle ‘n Thread in 2014:
What do you need?
What do you want?
What’s your needlework wish?
Tutorials, Techniques, or Tools? Oh My!
Ok, there’s more to it than that!
If you consider some of the major categories associated with needlework that we discuss here on Needle ‘n Thread, is there a particular category that you really, really love?
Needlework Tutorials?
Do you like step-by-step tutorials?
If so, are there any tutorials you’d like to see worked out here on the website? Is there any stitch, technique, or method of work that you’d like clarification on? That you’d like to see worked out in pictures, with explanations and guidelines?
Needlework Tools?
Do you want to hear more about needlework tools? Do you like to know what’s out there in the way of tools that can make our embroidering lives easier?
Do you need help with how to use a particular tool?
Would you like to see tool reviews or comparisons between different tools, to help guide your own purchasing decisions?
By tools, I mean any tool that is used at the embroiderer’s workstation – from hoops and frames to needles to scissors to stands, lighting, magnifiers, and miscellaneous gadgets.
Needlework Accessories?
Are you a lover of needlework accessories? Do you want to see more mention of accessories, how to use them, how to make them, or where to find them?
By accessories, I mean all the little additional items that make stitching and organization for stitching more pleasurable – and are usually decorative in some way.
Needlework Book Reviews?
Are there any needlework books in particular that you’ve been thinking about purchasing, but aren’t quite decided yet, that you’d like to see reviewed?
Would you like to see more reviews of older books – even out of print books?
What about book comparisons? Would you like to know which books will help you most, in specific needlework tasks?
Needlework Techniques?
What about needlework techniques?
Are you keen to learn a new technique, but don’t know where to start?
Would you like to see more information on specific techniques, and how to get started in learning them?
What techniques are you most interested in, and what do you want to know about them?
Needlework Video Tutorials?
Do you like needlework video tutorials and would you like to see more of them?
Do you need video tutorials on other needlework-related methods, aside from particular stitches?
What about particular stitches? Do you have any particular stitch that daunts you, that you need to see worked out?
Embroidery Projects?
Do you like watching embroidery projects develop step-by-step?
Is there any type of project that you would like to see develop step-by-step on Needle ‘n Thread in 2014? Usually, in these step-by-step projects, you’ll see tips and techniques explained, because that’s where I notice “teachable tips” that might help you along your own needlework journey.
Hand Embroidery Patterns?
Are there any specific types of hand embroidery patterns you’d like to see?
Do you pine for specific styles of hand embroidery patterns? Do you want to see patterns that can be adapted to specific types of finished projects? Corner patterns? Individual embroidery designs? Repeatable motifs? Embroidery patterns for simple projects? Complex projects? Embroidery patterns for children’s projects? Monogram patterns? What are your pattern and design wishes?
Embroidery E-Books? Project E-Books?
Do you like embroidery e-books and would you benefit from having more e-books available?
Do you want e-books that instruct on a variety of embroidery tips? E-books designed for the beginner? E-books that cover one particular project completely? Or e-books that make a multitude of projects do-able for you?
What’s Your Wish?
In short, I’m asking you to think a little bit about your needlework wish – what do you want to learn? What do you like to read about?
By answering below, you’ll help me fill up my blog planner for 2014. I can’t cover everything, but if I have an idea of what you would like to see, you’ll be helping me create content for Needle ‘n Thread that’s relevant to your needlework life, too!
So, take some time, think about it, and help me out a bit! Don’t be shy – think of it as asking Santa for whatever you want!
And when you’ve thought about it a bit, leave a comment below with your ideas, suggestions, and wishes.
And then…we’ll see what 2014 will bring!
Thank you!
Hi Mary, I love you blog and all the things you share, keep up the good work! What I would most like to see more of is featuring the work of other thread artists that I might not know, or workshops, or travel opportunities, such as the Lady Anne trip in England that looked so fabulous that I dreamed of going on for just one minute (!), websites, online classes, etc. You are such a clearinghouse of information, and these are things that I have trouble finding for myself. Thank you for your service 🙂 Lauren
I’ve been reading you for less than a year, but have enjoyed nearly every post.
Your book reviews are especially good — not compared to what else you do, but compared to any other reviews of needlework books.
I’d be interested in some discussions/tutorials about cut work, including a brief history (I know it’s more than Hardanger, but that’s all I know).
Ebooks are a problem for me as I don’t own a tablet. I have a kindle but pictures are worthless on a kindle. I have a Chromebook, but unless the ebook is a *.pdf file, it would be hard to read it there. I have a Win7 machine with a decent screen, but reading on that is a bit unwieldy. I like the idea of ebooks, but not all subject matters lend themselves to that media. Something downloadable to print, maybe, but taking a file to a color printer can be expensive. Just thinking aloud with a gentle reminder that not everyone has the latest techno toyz …
I’d like to learn more about fabric and about needles.
Some drawn thread work, pretty please?
Mary – you are now doing just what I need. You have a good blend of everthing you mentioned. I am not
an ornate embroiderer – I love your “fun” ebook which I have purchased and your stitch fun projects.- I guess I would say your videos and step by step tutorials are essential for me – I also love when you review the “new for you” threads – I LOVE ALL KINDS OF THREAD. You are a must for of us embroiderers out here – no matter what level or interest point we are at. Thank you so very much!!
Dear Mary,
I have found your video tutorials very, very helpful and can’t thank you enough for sharing them with us!
As a beginner needlepointed who slowly, but surely is moving towards intermediate, I will find all the information about needlepoint tools and comparison very useful too.
Thank you so much! Happy Holidays and a Wonderful New Year!
Dear Mary Santa
I would really like some info on smocking for 2014 , and goldwork – I love goldwork.
I completely agree with Rita : smocking and more goldwork… hmmm, precious goldwork *imagine a Gollum glow in my eyes* My preciousss
I love the variety of your articles. Each day is a surprise! I should really like to see something about ribbon embroidery and shadow work embroidery. Happy festive season,
Gigi
Oh, and also or nue if possible. My attempts have been feeble.
Mary – Your daily emails are amazing, inspiring and educational. I treasure every one. I especially love the tutorials and the excellent videos that teach us how to do every step. Your mix of subjects gives something for everyone. I love the step-by-step growth of a large project where we can follow the decisions you make along the way. In a nutshell, don’t change a thing. I look forward to each day because of the Needle N Thread in my inbox.
Now, a new pair of eyes and endless energy for the years to come? I would love to be given that miracle under the tree this Christmas!
Don’t forget….You’re the BEST!
Dear Mary, my greatest wish is just one word! TIME. I still have so many projects lying in waiting, and sometimes I wonder if I will be able to finish it all. 🙂
Lots of love,
Elza Cape Town xxx
Oh Elza – wouldn’t that be fantastic?! Mary, can you please box up and sell us some time? LOL
Love, Mary in South Australia
I feel like too much of a beginner to ask, and probably the answer is already on your website, but….
When I see a line design pattern, I just don’t know what to do. I know that I can use what ever stitches I want, but I have trouble diving in and starting. I’d like help in choosing stitches, colors, and types of thread when starting with a simple line drawing.
I love your blog every morning!! Thank you so much!!
I second this post! I’m new to embroidery too and have learned EVERYTHING from your website – the stitch tutorials and discussion on accessories etc are priceless. I even undertook your gingham pulled thread project … on a smaller scale. it came out beautifully. I’d love to print out many of your line designs but need more guidance on stitches, threads, everything. I also love the e-books.
I just love all the marvelous things you blog. I’m a beginner and really use all the equipment reviews. I also have difficulty with a line drawing and where to begin. You are a lifeline of encouragement and wealth of information that wouldn’t be able to find anywhere else. Thank you for sharing your knowledge so freely.
I agree. I have practiced stitches and want to dive in in 2014, but getting started is the hardest thing. I’m 57 and haven’t really made anything since high school. I want to make little special gifts for my friends.
I love the needlework video tutorials and find them very, very helpful. I found your site when I was searching Youtube for a lesson on how to embroider a particular stitch. Since discovering your site, I have been a frequent visitor to search for stitch suggestions and instructions. I have purchased two of your e-books and would buy another in a topic of interest, for instance one on Brazilian embroidery. I enjoy watching the development of projects and I occasionally incorporate some of your ideas into my own projects. Thank you for your blog! My needlework wish: MORE TIME.
I am a beginner and would like advice on which stitches to use for a specific project – my husband’s coat of arms. I can send you a picture if that would help
Hi, Janet – yes, send a photo! And what you envision it looking like… -MC
What I really like with your blog is the variety of topics you bring to us. I would like some technical information on which needle to use with which thread. Thank you for your blog. Merry Christmas.
My wish….Counted cross stitch…canvas work…embroidery stitches…black work….reviews of books that are still available to purchase…how needlework was used in history…reviews of accessories….application of finished work in garments that we wear today…finishing techniques…care of needlework after the project is finished…
I second that, finishing ideas and blocking as this can be expensive through a shop. Especially self finishing items and how to make them look more professional.
Love tutorials and patterns! I would be lost without them.
I am having trouble couching fine gauge check purl. My couching thread pinches and deforms the thread but if I couch loosely, it does not lay correctly. I love you excellent photography and tutorials. I also am interestind in seeing you use whipped plate correctly
Mary, I love your blog just the way it is. The book reviews are invaluable, reviews of both old and new books would be of interest. I find your comparisons of fabrics and threads really useful. I always read the explanations of different techniques, it leads me to try something new. Suggestions of suppliers where we can buy the hard to source items is useful too. I am about to start tambourwork embroidery (your fault!) so more on this please. I suppose I’m just saying “don’t change it too much” and “thank you for all your hard work – it really is appreciated”
Mary,
It’s a joy to have a bit of embroidery each day even if I don’t have time to stitch. So I enjoy everything you write and photograph so beautifully.
The two areas that are the most valuable to me personally are the projects you are stitching and the book reviews. It is both fascinating and instructive to follow each embroidery’s journey and all the decisions that must be made about what thread, which stitch and determining when unstitching is appropriate.
I live in a rural area so do not have access to a bookstore that offers embroidery books. You have called my attention to books I would otherwise never known about. Plus your very balanced reviews have given me the information needed to determine whether the book met my needs.
Thanks for your wonderful newsletter/blog.
Kim
I enjoy the wide variety of techniques you feature as well as the valuable information about threads and stitches. I would like to see more on the actual finishing of the work in final presentation form (framing, mounting, etc.) I have a website with references and bibliographies for fiber artists and am always appreciative to you for your books and book reviews.
I enjoy following your projects. Keep adding historical notes, and universally beautiful things like monograms as you’ve been doing. The “fun” stuff is okay for some, I prefer the very disciplined needlearts. Thanks, Mary.
I, too, love your historical notes. Thank you so much, Mary, for all the research that you do and share with us.
Mary, You provide such a wonderful service. Thank you. My 2014 goals are to follow your long and short videos and learn needle painting. Also, I want to start working some crewel and some lessons set up the way the long and short lessons were done would be great.
Most of all, just keep on doing what you are doing, it works for me!
I can’t think of anything new. You have covered many of the the things I’m interested in and supplied information on books new and old. What I need is practice. Oh, maybe you can do a refresher on threads and fabric. What goes with what, how do we choose? I belong to an embroidery group but they assume that we know how to do everything including what supplies to use. Thanks, and Happy Christmas
Mary, I love your blog and look forward to what interesting thing you will have on it each day! I enjoy all that you include and think that it is really a nice blend of topics. The only thing I would like to see would be more ideas for how to use some of the beautiful things you make. My mind only goes toward framing a project and hanging it on the wall. My walls are already VERY full! I just keep thinking about all the hours that go into making something and then having it donated to the Goodwill when the embroiderer is gone. 🙁
Hi Mary,
I second Carrie G’s suggestion. I absolutely love your blog and read it nearly every day. Innovative ways of finishing our works of art would be much appreciated.
Thank-you for sharing your expertise with us!!
Merry Christmas!
I love your blog – I’ve read others, but only yours really lays out HOW to do quality needlework and shows how you get from start to finish. That’s really valuable to me.
I would like to move from kits to non-kitted work, but whenever I try that, I find that the design process is really time-consuming, and then when you add colors, I spend so much time trying to choose pleasing colors that I wish I hasn’t started. I just bought Trish Burr’s book on color and think that may help, but if you wanted to talk about choosing colors someday, that would be great. I also like when you mention the materials you use – floche, linens, etc.
I also like when you talk about the threads. I would be interested in more discussion about when to use specific types of threads — when to use floche, when to use linen, when to use a silk/wool blend, etc. BTW, I have been wanted to learn tambour work for several years, so I loved seeing that. Thanks for all your work.
I appreciate the current variety. Seldom do I not read the entire article. It is my guilty pleasure because while I learn, I realize I could never reach your mastery. I can, however, with your tutorials, elevate my skills. If your work looks this lovely in two dimensions it certainly must be exquisite when seen in person.
I look forward to every newsletter. I am particularly interested in crazy quilts and embellishing wool appliqué with embroidery. I find your video tutorials to be better than any of the stitchery books on my shelf. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, skills, and personal opinions.
I would love to see an ebook on that beautiful embroidered alphabet
Oh, definitely YES on this one! I love detailed tiny embroideries and would love to try each of the stitches you used.
My needlework wish(es) are for you to finish your instruction book using those fabulous alphabet letters you have been teasing us with 🙂
I’m primarily a canvaswork stitcher but play with many other techniques and I enjoy everything you write.
Thanks for a great year of resources! Merry Christmas and happy stitching in 2014!
Hi Mary, I would like to see some more crewel patterns particularly for cotton as I am allergic to wool but I can’t do without your wonderful videos that have taught me everything I know so far. I am also interested in new techniques and I rely on your recommendation for any tools that I may need. I also like your step by step projects. But ultimately, what I need most is what you having been generous enough to date to share. Without your blog I would have struggled to learn embroidery and therefore would not be enjoying it as much as I am now. Thank you so much.
Hi Mary, I enjoy watching you do all of the steps needed to complete a project from beginning to end. I also like to see what new tools are on the market. Thank you for your most inspirational posts. I really appreciate them. Have a merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.
Happy stitching,
Gita
I just love the balance you have between projects, stitches, how-to’s, tools, all of it!
I wouldn’t change anything!!! Pat in SNJ
Every morning I look forward to checking in with you to see what new tidbit of information you have for your readers, and I am never disappointed. I love your video tutorials, and use them regularly. I also love your stitch projects, such as the Mission Rose, for it is in pieces such as that that one learns how to better master the craft of embroidery. Well, I need to say that I really love it all. After your review this summer of the Premax curved-tip scissors, I mentioned to my children that the Premax was something I wanted to try out, and, for my birthday I received this very welcomed little package in the mail, and to date, they are my very favorite pair of scissors to use. I enjoy the unusual techniques in embroidery you offer as well, such as sheisa. Keep it up – maybe a few pulled thread tutorials would be nice, and also how to best plan out the direction to take in a blackwork piece.
Dearest Mary–I love your blog. I look forward to reading it everyday. I go back and review your video tutorials all the time, they are such great help. I love thread, you love thread, please keep reviewing. I have bought a few of the books that you have reviewed, thank you. Introducing new techniques is always good, I particularly liked the tambour work. Okay I guess what I’m saying , your blog is just the perfect mix. Thank you for writing and sharing every day.
Mary, I love your blog because you do a variety of topics. My favorite is when you detail a special project from beginning to end – including the missteps and changes of direction. I like your explanations of why you use which materials – what type of thread, etc. That helps when I try to tackle a project. I am particularly interested in ecclesiastical projects, but I most enjoy watching the progress on each project. If you could review other websites that cover topics close to yours, it would help me in knowing where to turn for additional information (though I can’t imagine anyone having the wealth of information you provide). Finally, I love the stitch library and your excellent tutorials. Keep up the good work for 2014!! I will be there reading!
Dear Mary
Everyday I get your newsletter, in my inbox. I look forward to it, not only have you shown me ways to improve my embroidery, making some designs easier with a different way to stitch an old shape, it looks more proffesional when I try a new method. You push the boundaries of our interests, goldwork, I bought the one book you reviewed. Inspiration comes in abundance. I would love to learn how to make lace, with the bobbins, just an idea. This year was the first time I used silk thread for applique, have never used it before. I smock, quilt, embroider, applique, candlewick, cross-stitch, when the life allow for it. I find it relaxing and relieve stress. Still have to progress to stitching with silk floss, that will be another new experience for my bucket list. Maybe some Brazillian embroidery? Love the tambour work, it is something I will be trying next year, chain stitch is one of my go to stitches.
Merry Christmas.
Dear Mary,
Please don’t change a thing. I look forward to your wonderful information every morning. I learn; I wonder; I appreciate; I dream.
I can’t begin to tell you how I am inspired by what you show us. The tutorials, the book reviews, the clear photos, the new tools…..the list his endless.
Thank you so very much.
I love it all.
I love the variety!!!
My wish would be to stop procrastinating and finish all the UFOs that have accumulated over many decades!
I want everything – all the gadgets – and have many – and kits and charts and hundreds of skeins of floss and perle coton – and even have 2 UFOs on frames – and one that only needs one more set of initials.
Of course, there is also a lot of yarn and needles and crochet hooks and UFOs in each category.
I love seeing all your accomplishments, Mary, and want to learn, in spite of knowing the chances of my finishing anything more.
My husband gave me a wonderful mantra and it helps to know: You don’t have to finish, but you can never quit.
Oh, that is lovely! Thanks to your husband and you!Yes, we outgrow old fiber dreams. The kids go to Goodwill and love the old stuff!
I so happy, when I found you and your instructions online, I very interesting to try this technique, wich tambor hook, in 2014 I promise to try.
Thanks the e-mail and instruction, and I hope you have Merry Christimans and happy new year. I am from to Brasil, sorry my english. Thanks again.
Sumara
Are you interested in “mixed media” or “multi-media” – I would be interested in this and I think it is becoming more popular with embroiderers who have done traditional embroidery. I am also very interested in beading on fabric… If my interests are out of your focus area, I understand – you can’t cover everything. You do a wonderful job Mary! Thank You!
I really enjoyed what you did in Crazy Quilting. I would love to see more. On that same line some bead work would also be great.
I love it all! I really enjoy reading your blog, seeing what you do. Your blog is a great resource for ideas and free patterns.
I find that I spend most of my online crafting time looking for ideas, free patterns and tutorials for my own projects. Mind you, that doesn’t mean that I don’t buy patterns as well… But I do exchanges with an online group, and I often really, really need ideas for the project. Reading, seeing what other needle artists do gives me that spark of inspiration that I need to create that unique exchange gift.
This coming year I will be the president of my EGA chapter, and although we have our major project picked out, a pulled thread sampler, we still need smaller projects in between. Finding projects of various techniques that are easy for beginners (new members), yet challenging enough for a more experienced stitcher (the majority of our members) is the challenge. Perhaps you might have some ideas…???
Oh! I forgot my wish!
My ultimate needlework wish is to take a trip to England and France… England to take a class at the Royal School of Needlework, and France to see the Bayeux Tapestry…
I’d die happy…
Hi Diane,
Which chapter are you from? As President this year, I did all my planning last year. I am a member of the Cedar Valley chapter, Heartland Region. Here is a link for our chapter’s website if you wanted to look at programs we have done in the past: http://www.orgsites.com/ia/cvcega/
Thanks!
I am enjoying everything you write. Right now I am in the middle of project and I am trying to figure out how to do the leaves. I know what I don’t want to do but can’t figure out what I do want to do.
I love everything you show, your step by step instructions, hints that really work.
I would love to see more of Brazilian Embroidery,the step by step of different flowers and leaves. I’d also love to see the beginners version of cut work and drawn thread embroidery as this is something I’d love to learn also a little more advice for left handed embroiders.
My wish is to get a copy of Mary’s new book when it comes out – the one with the pretty alphabets.
I’d love to know the secret of perfect satin stitch…
And if you have room for it at any point, anything on heirloom sewing? A project on this?
Love the blog!
Good news! Somewhere on Mary’s extensive site, she has a how-to for doing the perfect satin stitch. I did a google search, and when Mary’s blog hit, I knew I would get good help. I just completed a little rework dove, complete with many tiny satin-stitch hearts–using Mary’s technique made all the difference. I received several compliments on the satin stitches when I entered that little dove ornament into our guild’s ornament exchange. Great, easy-to-follow directions.
I would agree with what Linda G. said! I, too, see lots of line drawings and just don’t know where to begin. I have found nowhere on the web pictures of the line drawing vs. the finished project….like a “before” and “after”. Something to just spark the ideas flowing 🙂 Thank you for your website!
I an consistently amazed at your photography, and would love to know more about your process. Do you use a special macro lens to get such clarity in close ups? Always shoot in natural light? I’d love a tutorial on this! Might be a little off topic, but perhaps not considering how many of us show our work online!
I love your emails. I love embroidery. I love the step by step tutorials as your pictures of each poke into fabric with thread are so clear and inspiring. Thank you for your dedication to this website. I always perk up when I see you in my inbox. Have a wonderful Christmas. Blessings. Alice Hughes
I meant Linda D. (not G.)
Season Greetings Mary, I am like everyone else that reads your emails – thoroughly captivated. Keep it up.
I have been trying to work out layouts/designs for Pulled Thread Work. I have found simple shaped designs but really need the info how to implement the various patterns into a design. I have various books on the subject of the stitches. I really love the lacy stitches but found after using my initial old fine linen I could not find any of the same quality. Anyway I know it is not a popular embroidery anymore.
Regards Lesley (from Australia).
Your site is my ‘go to.’ I only discovered it a few months ago when I decided to pick up embroidery again; I’m 65 and haven’t done embroidery since my early twenties. That’s how bad my experience was.
I’m creative; I enjoy mixing different techniques to complete my vision. This involves yarns as well as threads. I really like being shown unusual (for me)ways of accomplishing my goals. That means plenty of inspirational, finished ‘eye candy’ along with explanations of how to accomplish it.
My main interest is birds: how best to show feathers, their lightness, etc. I make a lot of my own graphic patterns, much like Native American motifs. New and beautiful ways to showcase what I feel boils down to the beauty and essence of these splendid creatures.
Keep it up, Mary. Love the site and the daily email I get that ensures I miss nothing.
Yes, yes! All of the above! I do mostly canvaswork, of which I would like to see a little more, but I love your teachings and funny asides. Just lead us to where your inspiration would take us. It’s great to follow you!
Hi Mary, WOW! Lot’s to think about. I love the tutorials on stitches. That is my favorite part of your site. Other sites just aren’t as clear as yours and some haphazardly done. I get somewhat confused on what fabric to use so perhaps more on linens and cottons. Thank you for all you do. Lorraine Connelly
Mary,
Forgot to mention that I love eBooks, but only those I can download to my iMac.
That pix of Colbert embroidery looked interesting. My current heartthrob is pulled and drawn work. I’d love to see YOUR take on it! Have a wonderful holiday, and I look forward to seeing you in my inbox all through 2014!
Anya
You are most amazing! and very talented. I learn something from you everyday. I have come late to your blog but now I am a very faithful reader.
If you ever get to Texas let us know – you will be entertained royally.
Our embroiderer’s guild will be starting to stitch Home Sweet Home this year, I might be needing some help along the way.
Cheers to the new year and learning new things.
Thank you,
Lynn B
Hi Mary,
The variety you have every week is magic, there is always something new. Would like to try Brazilian though, and would really like the basics of stumpwork.
Enjoy the holidays.
I would very much like to see a Halloween project done with beaded embroidery. Thank you.
Mary, I wonder if you are aware of how much a part you are of the stitchers’ lives who look forward to your daily posts. You are a treasure and I thank you for being there. My friend Mike in Ottawa first told me about you and I have come to rely on your help for just about every project in some way.
Keep doing what you are doing please! I am try interested in Italian needlework so if you expand your how-to’s to other nations I think it would be interesting.
I love watching projects step by step. I would like to see more of the Brazilian Embroidery so many people don’t really know that much about it. I also enjoy the book and tool reviews.
Mornin Mary, I would like to see a break down on a stump work project. Can never seem to wrap my brain around that technique. You explain things and demonstrate how to so well. I may even finish this bluebird stump work project I have one day. Ha HA
Well, Mrs. Corbet,
I like anything you post,really. But I especially like seeing projects develope and I’m interested in video tutorials of any kind.
Maybe I’ll finish Holly and Joy today, I ran out of one of my colours of thread yesterday. At least I needed to go to the store anyway to get a few embellishments for my Christmas dress. (I sew, too.)
I am new at this and LOVE your blog.
I have bookmarked so many of the daily blogs my computer is full of them:)
I would like to see more beginner projects.
The step by step tutorials are so easy to follow.
I LOVE IT! what more can I say
Hi Mary
I’m afraid that i’m very greedy i want it all
I am very new to following your site and so glad I found it. Maybe you already do this, but I would love for you to make up a kit for a complicated sampler pattern, preferably in a traditional kind of embroidery, and we buy it and you do a stitch along with us and show us the stitches you use (you can just let us know you have the video). That way, we would get to see the products you would use, where to use them, how to do the stitch, answer questions we have at the time…
I also like the idea of tools and techniques.
Thanks for asking.
What can I say? I want you to continue ALL OF THE ABOVE! I send on your blogposts to my chapter of EGA, some of whose members have now signed up to get their own copy, because we love the variety of what you offer.
Most of all, please keep on with the closeup photography of your ongoing work. This is very instructive, not to say fun, too.
And Happy New Year!
Mary, I love everything you do. The variety is great. The stitch tutorial videos are wonderful. I do so enjoy watching projects develop. I have thoroughly enjoyed the book reviews, since I do not have an opportunity to look at such books before I would buy them. I think the e-books are good. You do such a great job of keeping us informed about the needlearts world. You have made me aware of so many things I otherwise would not know. I have bought several books you have reviewed and love my Needle Needs “Necessaire” stand and frame from England. I wish I would have had that a long time ago. Recently, I have really enjoyed learning about Tambour. I always enjoy silk and metal. How many followers do you have? You are amazing. Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
I would like to see an ongoing project that we all could do. Like an online class that has one outline pattern that everyone uses yet has stitches geared for beginners and another set for advanced. With a supply list, or maybe a kit to buy. I would also like to see patterns from history, 12th century 🙂 Love your web site!
What a great idea!!!
Mary,
It took me quite a while to think about what I wanted because I almost always enjoy what you do. I do have a few things..
1. Needlework shows open to the public. I find them very inspiring, but seem to find out about them after the fact.
2. I’ve only been reading about a year, so I may ask for duplicates. A needlepainting project. My goal this year is to actually stitch a needlepainting project. Maybe a stitch-a-long.project.
3. Assisi work fascinates me.
4. I have heard of a cross stitching project that looks the same on both sides. Does it really exist? I have seen Chinese embroidery that has two sides…how are these stitched.
I really do depend on you and you site for new products and accessories. I suspect my Amazon wish list is in the same chronological order as your blog.
I hope this helps.
find the blog fascinating and enjoy hearing about books, tools, techiques. am really interested in learning to do whitework but without pulled or drawn threads…actually want to do white on beige linen
I love it all. Everything you do is interesting to me. Your blog is the only one I read every day! The variety makes it interesting to keep visiting. Your stitch guides and tutorials are clear and helpful. The book reviews are informative and useful. I love watching your projects come to completion. I do have a couple of ideas, but if you don’t do them, it wouldn’t affect my reading of your newsletter one bit!
Idea 1: I would like to know more about the care of needlework–particularly those pieces that have been passed down in the family and I’d like to preserve or display. How do I clean them, store them, mount them, use them? I have everything from needlepoint pillows and footstools/chairs to vintage linens, napkins, and tea towels. They are all precious and beautiful, but I’m not always sure how to wash them or reuse / repurpose them.
Idea 2. Have you ever sponsored a week-by-week sampler project for readers to follow along? Something like a quilting block of the month but smaller and less time–like six weeks? I don’t have a lot of stitching time, but I would love to have you set a week-by-week goal that would result in something like the Jacobean sampler you did this year. Of course, I suppose I could have worked along with you on that one, but it didn’t occur to me until late in the process!
Thank you, once again, for anchoring my interest in all things needlework! I love your newsletter.
YES!!!
All of it.
I love your blog. Interesting, varied, thorough, lively and real. Real as in uh-oh, I don’t like what I just did and actually walking us through the de-constructing.
More on tools, more ebooks AND I want to know what you do with all your work. Do you sell it? Is it commission work? AND it seems you schedule your needlework projects. Right? Based on what? Deadlines of your own, orders from others? AND finally, you seem to work on several things all at the same time.do you devote an hour for 1 piece and then switch to another one for any hour?
Tell me more…..
Hadn’t thought of it before, but this would be very interesting info to know!
Oh Mary, where do I begin! I love it all! Your review of notions and books keep me up with all the new items and give me an honest evaluation; your tutorials whether video or snaps are an invaluable resource; and watching your projects is so much fun. Your ideas and work is an inspiration to me and I find I am much more daring (for me). Thank you for your generosity in sharing and have a wonderful holiday season.
HI Mary,
Merry Christmas and happy needlework to you!
I would like to see some drawn thread work. I don’t remember you ever touching upon this side journey. Have you?
Thanks for asking.
Hi Mary,
There is so much on your blog that is useful that I really want you to just keep doing what you’re doing. Given that you asked for specifics though, here are a few requests.
I really enjoy watching your embroidery projects as they develop. Even when you make choices I disagree with, watching your design process is enlightening. Could you spend a blog posts talking about embroidery design, specifically choosing colors, using uncommon stitches, and blending textures in goldwork and whitework?
Also, could you keep up the techniques and tutorials? I really like your stitch play series.
Dear Mary.
In november this year I I had a course of chinese embroidery by Margaret Lee.
During that course we learned the double blending stitch.maybe you could learn this stitch to other people because this stitch can be used in lost of other embroidery work.
Anna from the Netherlans
Mary, I the best thing, the VERY best thing, about your blog is that it’s dependable and easy to find things I want to see again. Every week day I know I can go to your blog and see something about embroidery. I love the diversity and attention paid to the diverse facets of embroidery, book and thread reviews are a special treat – rural living limits one’s exposure you know. Also, your tutorials are great and I use them more than my “stitch books” because they are quick and visual. As you see, I am a pretty happy blog reader!
So, what would I like to see more of? Well…. perhaps a bit more on history (I do love embroidery history) and lately beaded embroidery has taken my eye. I have had a needle in my hand for over 50 years and done many things, so expand my mind a bit and open my eyes to new ideas I have never thought about.
Dear Mary,
Your blog is wonderful! I especially love the FUN WITH STITCHES articles.
I’m hoping that you’ll either offer a course in the beautiful alphabet embroideries with all the flowers or make an e-book to teach us to do them independently.
Other hankie techniques, such as fine drawn or pulled work, would be fascinating, too.
Thank you for all you do for us.
I love all the reviews you do, whether books or tools, the down-side is my lack of funds and space to accomodate my wish list, which has grown considerably since I’ve started reading your blog.
Ebooks – I’m waffling on them. I like to mark up my patterns, what’s done, notes about colors etc. I will also write in books as needed to clarify things. As long as I can print out pages to mark up…
I’m still thinking on a wish list for techniques and tutorials.
Hi Mary!
I’ve always loved the look of Jacobean embroidery but I don’t have an idea of how to start a project. How to decide which areas to fill, what fillings to use, etc. I’d love to see the “basic elements” that make up a Jacobean design and how one might select them for a project.
I love your daily blog. Everything is amazing, and I agree with Lauren below about other artists and travel/show opportunities. I also think it might be interesting to do an ornament or small project every other month, maybe something that requires less than 15 hours to complete, that could be given as a gift, using interesting fibers and stitches, possibly kitted so it’s easy to start?
I love the Needlework tutorials and techniques lessons.
Please continue them! When you asked what my Needlework wish is, my first thought was a trip to a workshop in Scotland. Wow what a gift that would be!
Thanks so much for all your wonderful work and blessings for your New Year.
I’m trying to learn Schwalm embroidery, but I don’t do a lot of embroidery, so although I’m a regular reader of your blog, I’m probably not representative. But, since you ask, my favourite is seeing your projects, step by step with all the whys!
Shadow embroidery, white work, borderie anglaise and bullion stitching are what I would like to see. Thank you.
Hi Mary,
Love what you do! You provide a wonderful variety of info that keeps me eagerly anticipating your email each day.
Your video and step-by-step tutorials are, in my opinion, essential embroidery tools. I use them often and can’t even count the number of people I have recommended your site to.
Your book reviews are superb and have allowed me to make more informed decisions on where to spend my stitching library funds.
Watching your longer term projects developing is inspirational and educational. It really helps me to think about where each of my projects is heading and how to improve them. You have also made me appreciate rather than resent (most of the time) having to reverse stitch an area to make the whole piece work better.
As far as a wish list goes for 2014? Number one would be to keep doing what you are doing. As for specific techniques I would like to see more on stumpwork, crewel, Brazilian, tambour and beading.
An ebook on the embroidered alphabet you have been working on sounds wonderful. One request when it comes to ebooks. Is it possible to put something in the copyright section stating we can print one copy for personal use? My local copy store gave me a bit of a hard time about the Jumble Sampler book when I took the file to have it printed.
Your hand embroidery patterns are wonderful. I have it on very good authority *wink* that Santa will be putting a tambour needle set under my tree. So, I have the “Joy” pattern printed out, transferred and ready to stitch once I have practiced some with my new toy.
Thank you again for everything you do. Here’s wishing you and yours a happy Holiday Season and fabulous New Year.
Mary, you are so wonderful at stitch tutorials, that your site is my “go to” for anything I need on stitching instructions, but I am dying to learn more about color and design – what “goes with” what, etc. This year, I am taking a design class, but I have no education in art and I think I need basic instruction on choosing colors, placement and balance. Keep up the fantastic work you do. It’s so very much appreciated! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Will you give the title of the book that is pictured? Thanks
Hello, i wish Goldwork, step by step and Video tutorials- everything with goldwork, clerical designs
Thank you very much!!!
Kind regards
Bianca
Hi Mary,
I would very much like to see some ideas for embroidery on clothing – especially shirts. I wear button up shirts and blouses year round and would love to dress them up with some hand embroidery. I do appreciate your videos and clear instructions. Reading your blog and having a cup of coffee is the best part of starting my day.
I love your blog and read it every day – every bit of it. The bit that don’t interest me right now I keep on file and read it later or when needed.
What I would like is to bring back some of the old and maybe forgotten techniques. I feel very strongly that we should not forget those.
Keep up the good work, there are lots of us that don’t have access to all the stuff over the counter or whatever so you fill us in on what’s new and what’s hot. And more importantly where to get it.
Hi Mary! I’m thinking of starting a bead embroidery project, and it would be wonderful if you could talk a bit about this technique.
Greetings from Colombia.
Oh my, much to think about. Your step by step tutorials are the best. I’m a hand embroidery person, like dish towels and blocks for quilts. The lattice sampler would be good to do on a weekly basis. I’m a hand quilter so I’m always doing that. I enjoy seeing your articles time and time again. I love seeing new techniques new and old. We forget them so seeing them again is O.K. Love to see how some people use their tools,even is they are not made for a particular stitching project.
My wish, a way to store my floss & threads, and not in those plastic bags or those plastic boxes they sell at JoAnns. Hope this helps.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
Hello Mary,
I’ve bee following your website for over a year now. Your website has been a an inspiration and a wealth of information about everything that has to do with embroidery. You are doing a fantastic job . Keep up the good work and thank you
Marta
Hi Mary,
I have read you every morning with delight for years now. I’m struggling to fulfill a project dear to my heart — marrying my grandmother’s lace with embroidery to create framed wall art — would you have any design or ‘how to’ suggestions along that line? I don’t see the combination very often but I have a lifetime’s collection of beautiful old lace that I would like to honour with delicate embroidery, for my grandmother. Thank you so much for all you do for us, every day! Catherine in Chelsea, Quebec
I love your web site, so much information, and I have learned a lot just reading it everyday. I am at the point in my embroidery where I need to work from a kit with the design already stamped onto the linen. This limits me greatly because so few vendors in the United States carry kits. Most of the vendors are outside the U.S. I wish there was an easier way to purchase and receive these kits. I had excellent service with Berlin Embroidery but I did pay $20 dollars in shipping charges. I ordered one of the crewel work companies kits, Mellerstain Parrots, from a vendor in Illinois back in October and I still have not yet seen it. I just wish more U.S. companies stocked these beautiful foreign kits. Maybe I just am not aware of all the U.S. sources for kits. Perhaps a goal for me would be to try designing my own project but right now that feels overwhelming. Thanks again for your informative and wonderful web site. Mary Sue C
Mary, I love reading Needle n Thread. Thank you so much for writing it.
I have been investigating how to do the “diaper” or filling stitches in blackwork embroidery. There are very good directions on how to do the back stitch, stem stitch, etc, but no real, clear instructions on how to figure out the pattern filling stitches. A tutorial would be great.
Best to you in 2014.
Lauren
Mary, I’m new to your site so happy I did. Love all you have. If you want to add on more omg,please do.I can’t wait if you do. Please let me know if you do. Thanks much, Jann
Mary, I think you do a fabulous job on your blog, covering all bases. I love the video tutorials, different stitches, reviews, tools. everything really. Although I’ve been doing drawn thread work for years, I’d love to see something about starting and ending threads as in the antique pieces I’ve seen; never quite been satisfied with what I’m doing. Long and short stitch is another area I’d like to delve into more as well.
Your blog and all you offer is such a gift. Thank you!
Mary I love your blog! I enjoy everything you write about. The give aways are fun. Your tutorials are so well done, so easy to follow. I always find reviews interesting. In fact, I would like to see more reviews of tools, acessories, etc and maybe even some articles with comparisons of items. For example, articles comparing various frames or stands or lights, including their similarities and differences, each Inez’s best feature and pros and cons of each. Those types of articles really help me find the best frame (or whatever) for my specific needs.
Also, I would love to see some articles on needlepoint. I don’t know if you even do needlepoint (& I don’t mean just tent stitch, but pieces with loads of different stitches and techniques).
Your blog really is one of my favorites, your articles are so informative and educational and enjoyable.
Have a happy & healthy new year and thanks again for all your hard work!
Dear Mary, all the areas of your blog are helpful and fascinating. Keep them all going! My only particular wish at this point is a tutorial on two-hand embroidery. Perhaps a little video… Thank you, and happy holidays!
Hello Mary,
I still continue to follow your blog on a daily basis. But often do not take time to leave a comment. But today, I’ll do !
I really really loved following step-by-step projects. And I am interested in book reviews. Your advice is so valuable to me.
And as others, you let me discover goldwork, and I love it !!
Thansk for all the things that you share.
Hi Mary, I look forward to your daily e-mail. I think you have the mix about right. With tutorials reviews and projects that we can follow or use for inspiration. So please keep on doing just what you already do! Cos you do it so well!!!!
I would love to see a “Tree of Life” project we could stitch along with you.
I too am also interested in a stitch along especially a “tree of life” project in crewel wool. Mary
Oh,a stitch-a-long is a terrific idea! I would love to do a tree of life or anything else
I love everything that your do! I don’t know how you can have the time to do all the content of your blog and get projects actually stitched!!! I originally found you because of the embroidered eggs,,,fenominal! I also had never heard of a tambour needle and that kind of embroidery. Your tutorials and videos are the best….I have learned so much. Keep up what you are doing…you inspire me to do more.
Thank you…Wendy
Keep doing what your doing! I check your site every morning, and have been making use of many of the things you show. I would wish for a longer life (about another 100 years) to manage all the beautiful stitching out there, but will try to follow your example and fill what time I have with beautiful stitching. What fun!!
I pretty much love everything you do here. But in reading others posts I guess I do have some “ideas”.
I also would love to see ribbon work and Hardanger type things. I love your step by steps videos. Love your book reviews (they are BAD for me tho. I’m a book nut and love books, end up buying a few.) Would also love to see more on the thread painting. And yes, I LOVE the tools. When this is all fairly new other than the basics those tools are GREAT for ideas on what may work for a newbie.
Another newbie gave me the idea that a series on just how you mentally go about choosing what stitches, colors, etc. would be great. Your “thought process” on that. Just that alone I bet could take up several months. LOL.
Thanks so much for these daily emails. They are such a bright spot in my day.
Have a very merry and blessed Christmas. May you have a wonderful new year. I love the tutorials; the e-books. One of the things that I miss in embroidery is (Old England) Christmas designs — all of the Christmas flowers/foliage, etc. I have wanted to do a crewel work style Christmas tree skirt and medium/large stockings that would go well with the skirt design. I would like the skirt to be able to be adjusted for people with small to medium trees as well as a large tree. I really don’t think there is any reason to have a skirt that you cannot see the design. I live in Pennsylvania and I really would love to have a workshop in the Philadelphia area. Please keep your imagination and your beautiful art coming. I don’t know of anyone who does not appreciate them. Sincerely, Carol
Hi Mary! I very much enjoy and appreciate your blog. I know it takes a ton of work to be so comprehensive. I’ve used all the different categories that you have at one time or another, but the one I use the most are the video tutorials. I’m somewhat of a beginner and the videos make the stitches super easy to duplicate. Much easier to understand than written instructions (even with pictures.) More of these would be appreciated.
Thank you!
Betsy
I do a lot of canvas work and hardanger.
Would love to see that in your turtoils
Dont be cruel ! Give us more crewel ! : )
I am a greedy person, I want it all. I love reading all the posts but I must confess I use the video “how to” the most. Any time I’m wanting to learn a new stitch, I go to your wonderful videos. If I haven’t used a stitch in some time, I go to your videos to refresh my memory. So please, more videos. But then again, you have introduced me to several new tools. On the other hand, your explainations of various needles has been quite helpful. Oh, and then there are the patterns. I have used a number of them not only embroidery but in my pottery as well. It looks like I like everything! Thank you for all the great posts.
Alice
Maybe some type of interactive forum. Sometimes in the middle of a project it might be nice to get suggestions from others.
Mary, I think you have a very good mix of all things needlework. There are times when a certain topic does not interest me, but far more often, I enjoy what you have. It’s great to see how projects progress and take part in your struggles to come up with just the right stitch/thread, etc. You help to broaden my needlework mind. If there are other needlework destinations in the world, I would love to hear about them. I will try to make it to Wemyss one of these years.
You are doing great! I look forward to it every day. Please teach smocking. And painting with thread like Trish Burr’s birds.
Thank you. Happy Winter Solstice and Merry Cheistmas.
Mary, Your web site is, as it’s titled, an awesome blend of everything that involves a needle and thread! And your writing is as if we were your best friends….thank you so much for what you do!
I’m sure I have “worn out” some of your tutorials when I have forgotten a stitch pattern. I like the your articles on blending/combining different stitches.
Someone wrote about stitching a family coat-of-arms. With only one painted copy at the family home, a copy in thread will be a great project for me to try.
Thanks again. Anne
I love your blog and the variety in the posts. But if you are asking about the ones we like the most, I like learning about different needlework techniques and where to start. The Tambour embroidery was fascinating. I also like the Needlework book reviews. Thanks so much for all your hard work on this blog.
I would like more of everything!! I LOVE this blog. I am always learning something from this blog and I enjoy all of it. If I had to pick one thing it would be more free patterns. I have been doing hand embroidery since I was a little girl and it is still my favorite. Thank you for all you do to keep the art alive. Merry Christmas!!
I’ve really enjoyed the Stitch Play series, and I always enjoy following your projects. I don’t currently have the time or resources to do a lot of stitching, so I get a lot of vicarious enjoyment in watching your projects progress.
Hi Mary –
My answer to all questions is YES! Love it all, love the variety, love the projects, the stitches, all different types of needlework . I’m very grateful for you sharing all you do, and teaching – so thank you!
I would like to learn how to properly stretch and frame needlework,
particularly the heavier pieces, such as crewel,beaded, and stump work.
And I love surprises! My favorite this year was the Indian style embroidery with the tiny mirrors – I haven’t seen that since the “60’s, and always wanted to know how to do that. And anything historical – methods and stitching brought back to life. (Just what IS the Bayeux stitch?)
And because it is your blog, whatever you really enjoy – which makes it enjoyable for me. Your enthusiasm is infectious.
Mary: I have just started embroidery again after 30 years. I was self taught. I’ve joined an embroidery guild and am learning lots. I love your blog. I know that this might not be helpful but for a beginner. I really am! Everything you’re talking about is interesting to me. I love to learn new stitches and the video’s and the instructions are great. I am a quilter also and I love notions and anything that helps me organize better. I love your blog and it’s so nice to be able to learn something new whenever I feel like it. Thank You and Merry Christmas
My needlework wish is probably very small compared to those who do fancy needlework. But there are times when I wish I knew more. One of the things I would like is a list of books. This does not have to be a long list but a few of the best for simple embroidery stitches and possibly when they can be used to the best advantage. It is most difficult to purchase this type of book while at the computer. I have been given a book on gold work, but again it is not for beginners. I would love to invest in gold work but it would have to be very simple instructions that would also include the types of gold thread and how to use them. Maybe there are more “out there” who are homebound who would appreciate this type of wish.
Thank you for allowing us to be heard.
Wow – what a blessing to be asked what my wish is for Needle n Thread! Thanks for asking.
[thinking…….. thinking……. reading list again….]
YES
Yes. To everything. All of the above. Please.
Thank you.
Wow Mary, that’s a lot to swallow. First off I must say you are doing a fantastic job already. Your decisions in covering certain techniques, etc. has been excellent. At this time I have no requests, but if I think of something along the way I will let you know.
It appears that all your fans agree that you really have left no needlework wish un-granted! The educational nature and incredibly high quality of your blog is astounding. There is little left to ask you for! I have bought any number of books and tools entirely on the basis of your reviews and have been completely delighted with them all. Your detailed instructions and illustrations are fascinating, even on projects and techniques that I will never pursue myself. Information about needlework exhibits and collections is also much appreciated, even if the only visit I might make is electronic. Perhaps of least interest to me are e-books but only because I haven’t really determined how to use them effectively myself. I much prefer paging back and forth through a book but certainly appreciate that electronic formats make much material affordable and accessible to a wide audience. Thank you again for all of your efforts on your readers’ behalf. You’re doing a marvelous job!
Hi Mary, I simply love your blog and the things you share. My wish for 2014 would be – more patterns for hand embroidery and projects. Thank you
Keep up the great work Mary, I read your blog every day. Your work inspires me. I use your references all the time. I recently started hand quilting which offers great opportunity to use your embroidery stitch guide.
Dear Mary,
The one thing I love the most is the ’embroidery porn’. You know what I mean! 😀
Honestly, if you keep the gorgeous pictures and witty texts coming, you’ll have my attention forever. 🙂
Your choices for subjects have been awesome all these years, I don’t think you need anyone’s advice on what to do with your website – but that was very kind of you to give us the chance to meddle!
Well-stated, Samanta! I couldn’t agree more.
Dearest Mary, I want all of those things and cannot tell you what a blessing you are to me. I am awed by the amount of work and the clear, clear tutorials you put out. I most want 2 things: time (to do the work of my hands) and health for you (so you can continue to inspire and teach us). Thank you, thank you for all the time and effort you put towards your incredible craft. Sincerely! Joan Jeffers
Oh May where do I start!!!!!!
I like all things embroidery and I really like it when you review a book – I prefer ones I can actually get rather than the old ones that are out of print. I have gazed longingly at your black work fish and I would love a feature on that and how you go about planning a space into that fab stitching. I have a picture drawn by a friend of mushrooms and have dreamt of being able to transform the design into embroidery – could I? I am also a gadget freek so any tools or good websites would be magic. I could go on for ever! Thanks for all you do for us and roll on your next instalment.
Where do you find those cute little needle boxes?
Hi, Donna – Aren’t they great?! They’re reviewed here: https://needlenthread.wpengine.com/2013/05/needle-tins-store-your-needles-in-style.html and I buy them through Hedgehog Handworks, here: http://www.hedgehoghandworks.com/catalog/TLSNDLTIN.PHP They’re the perfect little stocking-stuffer-little-Christmas-present-thingy for needleworkers, too! And they work for storing other small things, like precious little buttons and so forth. I love ’em!
Well in fact, I enjoy reading about the whole variety of things you cover in the newsletter, even if I never try them. I even bought one of the books you reviewed, paged through it and donated it to the library. They were thrilled to have it. I’ve kept an e-file of all the tutorials and bought 2 e-books and will try the stitches ‘someday’. I enjoyed learning about tambour work even though I’m not likely to actually try doing it. I’m taking a Tanya Berlin blackwork class in February because my daughter gave me a Marion Scoular blackwork project that I really want to do. And I’m looking forward to the EGA National Seminar in Phoenix in October. This will be my first and since I live in Arizona, how could I pass it up.
So ok, to answer the question: I want to learn chicken scratch. It looks easy, but I’ve tried a little and I think I need to see the step by step process. I’ve collected some really lovely ‘samples’ on Pinterest and tried to figure out the process by looking at the pictures, but that didn’t work. It’s one of those ‘someday’ things and I’ve got a lot of that kind of project in my notebook. I’d like to do them all but at the age of 69, it’s not very likely. Therefore, I enjoy it all vicariously via your newsletter. ‘Thank You’ doesn’t even come close to the appreciation I feel, and I have no doubt your other fans will concur.
As a former teacher I know that when blanket praise such as “everything is wonderful” is given then the student might wonder how carefully the instructor looked and thought about the product. So when I say everything is wonderful, please don’t think I haven’t explored, enjoyed, and utilized the many features of your site. It just is terrific. Currently I’m at that stage in life when all of my nieces, nephews, and children of my friends are reproducing (at times it seems like rabbits), and I like to craft baby gifts for them. New ideas in this area would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Mary, I love it all!!! – – my top 3 are – – Needlework projects No. 1 – book reviews No.2 – Needlework tools review No.3. Have a great Christmas – hope this is useful. Wendy
Like everyone else has said, I love everything you already offer. I don’t have much time to work so your site is my little hit of it every day. I especially love when you look at an old piece of embroidery, or show pictures from an exhibition. My favorite techniques are canvas work and crewel, so any time you feature those it’s great. –Kristin
Hi Mary–
First, before I forget, I hope you have a Merry Christmas! It looks like we’re in for a white Christmas here in Ohio this year…unless some warm air decides to blow in before next week.
Second, I want you to know how much I enjoy your blog. It seems like you’re always finding just the right piece of information to answer any given, left-field questions that pop into my brain. (for some reason, my mind tends to focus on random, archaic bits of trivia and/or minutia.)
My wish-list includes more info about Brazilian Embroidery, Crazy Quilting, and Drawn Threads (to list the top 3). I also love, love, LOVE, your stitch library and stitch tutorials. As I am a mostly self-taught stitcher, I can really relate to these. And your photography and cinematography are top-notch!
I also love the projects you show us step by step. I especially like the way you don’t hide your mistakes; but instead, when you explain why you’ve decided you don’t like the way a project is progressing, I learn as much from your mistakes as you do. The example that comes to mind was the time you took putting the project on a different frame (what project was that?). By explaining why you took the time to un-lace the project and put it on a different frame, I could understand the pros and cons of 2 different options. (I just can’t remember the project!)
Thanks for all you do. I look forward to what you have planned for us next year.
Dawn
I am a fairly new follower of this blog. I simply cannot choose. I love every single post and have benefited from the tutorials, ebooks, and tool recommendations. I would love the ebook of the alphabet that you have been working on. I can only say “Thank You!!” Please keep doing this work.
My two favorite kinds of newsletters are book reviews and your projects where you allow us to follow your process and progress. That’s not to say I don’t love all the rest as well – maybe not accessories – but, hey, there has to be something for everyone!
YES!! I just really enjoy all that you do. I have learned so much even tho I don’t embroider, but just needlepoint. Your critiques on accessories and threads are quite useful but I also love to watch one of your creations come together. I have a small Tudor Rose canvas and I have been studying your Tudor and Mission roses for hints. Thanks for all that you do and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you!
Hi Mary, Thought I would throw in my two bits. LOVE your video tutorials – would be great to see more. Tutorials – canvas, crazy quilting, brazilian. Patterns – monograms and variations.
Book and product reviews – great. LOVE the articles on learning opps – workshops, travel etc.
Enjoy the holiday season and all the best in 2014.
Lorraine
Hi Mary
I live in berwick upon tweed which makes it difficult to access both needlework materials, equipment and courses. I visit your web site everyday as it makes me feel connected to other people in the world who love needlework.
Would you consider settIng a monthly challenge to which we can all respond. For example, to create a small sampler using a particular technique or stitch. We could then celebrate each person’s contribution on your website or say on pinterest or Tumbler.
Anyway just a thought.
But thanks for all your hardwork each year.
Kind regards
Glynis
I am itching to learn how to use a mellor, I’d love to see a tutorial on this.
I love most of what you do. I am a crazy quilter so find information about most techniques helpful and adventuresome. I do not care for videos, e-books, and e-patterns. I like a book at hand as opposed to a computer.
Thanks for your website!
Barb W, MO
I forgot to mention in my response, I also do not care for the e-books. Totally won’t work for me either. I’m a “book junkie” I guess!
hi Mary. Thank you for asking. Filling a calendar can be daunting!! Of all the things you listed, I love ALL that you do. And I like that you don’t fall into any ruts — you mix it up! One day is a review, another a stitch, and we can check in on your project. It keeps it fresh and I always look forward to “what’s new”. Mary’s world! Of all the suggestions you made, I noticed that I would like a your explorations with Assissi embroidery and how to keep it neat and crisp looking. Happy Holidays. Love checking in with you everyday! I’m looking forward to 2014.
I love it when you critique needlework tools like lights and stands and such!
I LOVE the step-by-step tutorials. I am a new needleworker, so your step-by-step instructions are invaluable to me. I refer to them just about every time I’m working on something. I also really love the videos. Since I’m such a beginner, while I was working on some stem stitch, I literally replayed your video over and over to get the hang of it.
I love everything you post, so keep on doing what you’re doing, and I’ll keep coming back again and again.
Also, yes! An e-book designed for beginners would be awesome! I would love such a thing.
All of it is wonderful! My projects include some lettering—proverbs, sayings, etc. Finding fonts the right size and style to print and then transfer to the fabric is more of a challenge. Then, of course, deciding which stitches to use takes so thinking and trial and error. I have a sewing machine that can do the embroidery, but hate all the computer time required to set it up when I could be stitching while watching a movie! Have a happy Christmas and thanks for sharing this wonderful craft with all of us.
Good Morning Mary,
YES! I want to learn it all, I need to retire so I can just do my needlework. I only found you in September this year and I can now complete stitches I dreamed of doing because of your clear videos. I return to them constantly for new inspiration and let’s face it, because I forget how to do them, sigh.
Please continue to teach us new stitches, the videos are so helpful, love the projects laid out, love the tools, I would never have attempted tambour but it is on my holiday wish list. The review of products is super helpful too.
While the trip to England is nice, I have very modest means and my goal would be coming to a week of retreat with you instructing and sharing.
I used your book list this month to order books and supplies from your recommendations as well, still looking to get silk gimp from a store in Portland, Oregon that sells it and I need to drive up there when they are open.
I have purchased all of your ebooks, they are super helpful and clear, the drawings were great to use for patterns.
Ok, the one area I am SUPER interested in is: Victorian Crazy Quilt stitches. There is a lady on the picture board that has a million of these and she is driving me crazy with how beautiful they are, I am completely drooling over her work and would love to learn all the stitches.
Thank you!!!!
Your blog always has something interesting and often time the subject is applicable to different types of needlework. I have recently fallen in love with smocking and creating Wee Care Gowns. I would like to see a tutorial on smocking and the different smocking stitches. I have noticed smocking techniques in ready wear clothing…maybe it is making a come back. I would love a bolt of Swiss Flannel ivory in color to smock some beautiful gowns to donate to a local hospital.
Thank you Mary for your time and effort in keeping us informed on all aspects of needlework.
xo,
Deb
Mary – looks like you have a lot of suggestions to help you with 2014. For 25 years I did ONLY Brazilian Embroidery; not wanting to get started on anything different, for fear it would take time from my BE. Well, I have ventured into many other needle arts in the past 5 years. In part – that is all your fault ( that is a compliment ) I am still unsure what fabrics I can use for the many different arts; and what threads are most appropriate. Example – I know for Huck (Swedish Weaving ) I use Huck fabric or Aida; for Hardanger, there is Hardanger fabric…but what other fabrics can I use? What different needle techniques can I use Lugana….. I keep telling my self I am going to make cross reference index cards – but haven’t done that. There must be other stitchers asking my same questions.
I always go to you first when looking for instructions of a stitch, or just looking for a different stitch to use on a project. Your tutorials are the best. I have gotten all of your ebooks. They are at the top for ideas and instructions. I have them all on my i-pad, so convienent to have with me all the time and to use at my place of stitching. The price is very reasonable for all the work you have put into them.
Even the ongoing projects that I am not particularly interested in what you are stitching, but always learn from them.
The out of print books are nice to see, but very disappointing to not have them available.
Everyday I look forward to seeing what you have for us – it is always something good
Thank you so much. I would love to meet you some day – you are an inspiration.
Well, Mary, You have offered entirely too many choices!! I want almost all of them. It would be easier to tell you what I’m not interested in: cross stitch, gold work, and canvas work, but even these are informative and therefore I welcome them! I decided not to attend the Calloway School of Needle Arts in January for a number of reasons, and already I’m mourning the loss of that 2 weeks of learning and comradery. So, I’m looking forward to any thing you offer.
I love your blog and the mix of posts you do.
One thing I really enjoy reading is your book reviews. As for future book reviews, everything is of interest. Old and new, print or e-format, in english or any other language (you don’t always need to know a language in order to enjoy and have practical use of an embroidery book).
One of the latest book added to my wishlist is Little Flowers in silk and organza ribbon by Di van Niekerk and Marina Zherdeva. Not out yet, but I’ve very curious and will be looking for reviews online next year.
As a beader since many years before rekindling my love of needlework, I of cause can’t get enough of beads and bead embroidery so anything on that theme is very welcome. Other areas of interest is everything almost. Blackwork, chicken scratch, ribbon embroidery, gold embroidery, smocking, shibori, stumpwork, sashiko, tambour, landskapssömmar, sequins, pulled thread, tin thread, modern mixed media and unconventional choices of materials. Most of which I’ve either never tried or just dabbled a little in. So how-tos and inspirations are always wanted.
I also like to read about and learn of less common stitches, perhaps because they’re local/provincial or because they died away (how many embroiders with fish scales or straw today, for example?). As well as read about the history behind stitches with interesting stories attached to them (do you e.g. know the story of how the anundsjö stitch, aka swedish split stitch, was — probably unintentionally — invented by an woman who sew cloths to earn her livelihood when she got old).
Other than that? Well, as a “thread addict” I also love your reviews and other posts on various threads. New, old or just interesting or unusual ones.
By the way, after once mentioning my tin threads, which are used in sami-style tin thread embroidery and braided bracelets, I keep getting questions about where to buy the thread — which is common here in Scandinavia — in the US. I have no idea so if you or anyone else in the US knew or could find out it’d be a great post, which I could refer those asking me to.
Forgot to mention temari.
I have been patiently waiting for another e-book to come out that you mentioned at the beginning of September in this post: https://needlenthread.wpengine.com/2013/09/end-of-the-summer-end-of-a-project.html
In May, I bought 4 packages of handkerchiefs with 3 in each package. For Christmas, I have monogrammed 11 of the handkerchiefs for my family as well as my husband’s family. A friend who is getting married at the end of March saw me working on them and asked for one, but instead of using the free patterns (Thank you!) that I used for the rest of my family, I wanted to use the letters from the post above for my final handkerchief.
As a beginning embroiderer, I most often used your how-to video tutorials and love them, as well as all of the patterns you have available. I have enjoyed learning new stitches, so I would definitely like to see more of those, but the number one thing I’m asking for is the e-book! Thank you!
Lizzy
I would love to see something on how to hem tablerunners. I made one for my son’s wedding with Ukrainian embroidery on it and had forgotten how to do the square looking hem stitch that I learned many years ago. In desperation I hand hemmed it. However I believe that there are many decorative stitches that could be used for hemming.
Hi, Mary! I love everything you do! You have a vibe, a frangrance, and if you were to do something I don’t usually like — monochrome needlepoint in shades of beige — ugh? — I would still enjoy your presentation. That said, I dress my dolls and enjoy pretty blouses and nightgowns. I’ve taken pattern drafting in design school. Well, many of us know how to tweak a sewing pattern. I am very confused with smocking. A well-known teacher has only made it more confusing to me. When I’ve had the money for a pleater, I spent it on French magazines or travel or anything else! I would like to get an understanding of how much the fabric can be drawn up — whether pinwale corduroy or poly-cotton batiste or silk georgette. And if there’s a standard spacing for the dots and what it is. I know this work goes way back in England. The well-known teacher has high-jacked it, however. I’ve searched her instructions in vain to learn how far apart to make my dots, etc. . . . I love to think of all the women who made beautiful things with just scissors, pins, cardboard from cereal boxes, old newspaper, and a pencil and ruler. So I would love to be empowered to simply spread my pattern pieces, transfer the dots, do all the preparation, and finally have something pretty. I suspect it’s like knitting or beadwork where the equipment and materials have guidelines as to size, i.e., you don’t put Size 10 seed beads all over a dress — way too heavy! And you don’t make socks with bulky yarn and Size 1 needles. I don’t know how many strands of floss I’d use for classic smocking. And then . . . for the wrists of a corduroy jacket with the released fullness making a ruffle, how about No. 5 Pearl cotton? Once we have classic guidelines, how could we break out from them? I know there are books,and they usually work for me. Anyway, I’ve always wanted to smock. Next in line: Brizilian embroidery such that I didn’t have to depend on the few patterns in order to do my own designs. What makes it Brazilian? Many thanks!
Mary, I love everything you do. So I can get behind just about anything you do. But since you asked, my wish would be more chicken scratch, Mary’s style! I know it’s suppose to be simple, but so many sites are either too old or hard to follow. Then I would love to learn how to design my own patterns. So chicken scratch, 1st choice,then more cut work and simple patterns, for my second choice. Then have you ever done or would you consider doing an EAL (EmbroiderAlong)? Or a sampler block of each style to give us an idea of each type? I personally enjoyed and purchased your e book on the sampler for stitches. Thanks for asking for our input and Merry Christmas!
Hi Mary. I’m interested in ideas for surface embellishment on patterned fabric. Something to bring out elements of the design and add extra texture.
I’ve been following your entertaining blog for a while and always enjoy it. Thank you for all your work.
Suzanna
I love just about all you do. The only technique I would like more of is crazy quilting. Happy holidays.
Carolyn Everly
Aloha Mary,
I love reading everything on your site. I really appreciate all the time you take to do everything step by step. Wish list for 2014, would be shading on a face, any stitches in old embroidery books that are not prevalent today and gold plate would be cool.
Many thanks for all your hard work but very inspiring work.
ji
Mary,
You do such a wonderful job with your website, it’s almost impossible to improve. Now of course I do have my favorites. I simply love when you do your reviews on needlework tools. Because of you, one day a Needlework System 4 will be mine, oh yes, it will be mine. I have also discovered all kinds of functional and just plain funky tools because of you.
I also don’t know how many times I haven’t pulled out my tablet or phone to pull up a video tutorial of yours to re-remind myself just exactly how to do a stitch.
I also just love seeing what you’re doing lately. Your website is a treasure and I refer fellow needleworkers to it often. Thank you for all of your hard work!
Than you for your wonderful tutorials i have enjoyed them all
keep up what your doing
Mary…….Your site is a constant inspiration to me…I have gone from a beginner to an Intermediate Embroidery artist … Thanks to your beautiful site…anything one needs to find is here!
I have a LOVE of Silk Ribbon Work and would like YOUR take on that…. You are responsible for getting me hooked…lolol…..(no pun intended) on Tambour Embroidery and I plan to try some bead work with it…Maybe a tutorial with the tambour & bead work?
Thank You for sharing your craft with us all.
Roxann Cox
I am in U.K. and have only been following your website since November so have not seen everything in your archives but I love it. I have bought a tambour needle after reading your blog so would like any more information on this technique and I would also like pictures (as opposed to patterns) in blackwork. I like your step-by-step teaching especially solving problems and mistakes. I found your de-construction of antique padded goldwork very interesting so more please. I love needle painting, Japaneese and Chinese embroidery but I keep diverting to something new when I see it.
Kind regards
Joyce
I’m sorry, I won’t be much help for your planning purposes: I love everything you post! I have learned so much from you this past year, and I’m enjoying doing a new skill! Thank you so much for your blog.
Hi Mary! Reader survey time, huh?
Here’s my input. Your site is a great go-to for so many things. I personally look up book reviews more than anything and I often like to see how your WIP is coming along.
My needlework wish? That would be to have enough energy and strength to work all the projects I have in mind. Sadly, that’s something one can’t find on N&T, but it’s a good place to come for eye candy when ooomh is lacking.=)
Thanks for all your work and I hope turning the site into your full time job has been rewarding for you and that you’re managing OK.=)
Mary, I’m happy, just keep doing what you have been doing so very well, a little of everything. As they say “variety is the spice of life. I love reading you newsletter!
I would like to have all of the above!!!!
Thanks for everything, anyways. Great work!!!
j’aime be
Oooh what a question haha ^_^ I’d honestly love to learn about chinese su embroidery and I have horrible eyesight so any info you can find about affordable, strong magnifiers would be great! I do have to say that I love your embroidery projects and seeing how you use different techniques in new ways.
Bonsoir, j’aime tout ce que tu fais et ce que tu proposes, surtout lorsqu’il y a des tutoriels, cela m’aide beaucoup dans mes travaux. Tous tes conseils me sont très précieux. BONNES FETES DE FIN D’ANNEE!!!!
I love all the tutorials of stitches, I can’t see enough of them! My goal next year is to start ( and finish) a large project about the sky( I got pictures in my mind about it, but I can’t find words for them). I would like ideas and suggestions about how to plan and organize bigger projects. By bigger I mean bigger than 30 x 45 centimetres. And I love step by step descriptions of the works you make. And happy new year to you and your family!
Like so many others, I love what you are doing now. I am always up for your clear tutorials and appreciate your recognition that many of your followers are not from the North American continent. I also appreciate that your blog is not full of ‘stuff’ which is expensive so that I (and probably many others) feel included and that we too can afford to try most things…maybe not goldwork, but I enjoy watching your projects grow and how you resolve problems you strike on the way. I can no longer afford to go to workshops so it is a joy to be able to extend my repertoire through your excellent teaching. Thank you. I wish you a blessed and peaceful Christmas.
The crewel rooster did catch my eye with all its beautiful colors. Would love to try something like that. Also the lattice jumbler fun sampler. As a matter of fact, they are all interesting to do. Merry Christmas to you!!
I like it all but if I have to choose:-
Line and band stitches,Techniques, Tutorials,
Embroidery Projects are interesting,
New Techniques.
I would love too learn blackwork. I do counted cross stich but would like to try blackwork. Beverly from Indian Trail, N.C.
Tutorials along with the video, techniques, your embroidery projects, and the give away are my favorites. Nevertheless all the information in your blog is very interesting, I read it every day.
Hi Mary, I love your blog and website, in answer to your questions in your last email, , Yes to all. Thank you.
Dear Mary
please keep going as you have been I love everything you put up. Just keep doing the same I love all your work. Love the tools and e books are great.
I would like guidance on selecting fabric for crewel. Next, which size needle for which fabric? Do certain fabrics work up better with yarn or floss, or a different thread? Also, I would like the information about crewel grouped together as you do for the tutorial section. How about a crewel sampler (of stitches) as a project? Mary, thank you for all your advice, tutorials, projects, etc. I find your site very helpful: You are my go to for help and advice. Merry Christmas
I second this! More about fabric please!!
Oh, that’s SO easy to answer. Step-by-step projects (like Mission Rose???). I really don’t care about tools and frames and all that because my local stores don’t usually carry those things. But I just love following you along on your projects – any of them. But I think you are a lot like me and leave things when they are just close to being finished. More please. I love to follow you.
Mary, I completely agree with everything Karen O. from Minnesota said. Don’t change a thing. Your variety and thoroughness helps everyone at some point and the wealth of information in your “archives” is priceless. Thank you so much for your daily newsletter! Although I have spent a few extra $$ on some of your recommendations 🙂
Hi Mary – don’t change a thing. I look forward to reading your email every day and find I always get something from them. Your website is user-friendly too.
A technique I am interested in learning about is Naversom Embroidery (Swedish whitework, I think)and any other unusual form of embroidery technique.
But as I said – keep the same informative, interesting and indispensable emails coming!!
Chris
I want it ALL. But more than that, I want the time to do it ALL! A thousand thanks for everything you share. Merry Christmas xx
I would like to see any hints you have about converting a cross stitch pattern to another medium, such as Or Nue’. I hope to offer such a project to my guild members in 2014, and would appreciate any hints you can provide. I have a tiny apple blossom pattern that would be great done in an Or Nue’ type medium, maybe couched over a white metallic braid instead of gold.
Mary,
I would just like to be a better embroiderer. I would guess more time and practice would see that happen.
I have noticed lately here and in Australia there is an increasing trend to combine surface stitching with patchwork fabric and/or wool (see Wendy Williams Quilts at http://www.flyingfishkits.com.au/ so I am voting for tutorials and uses of stitches such as you showed us with the lattice sampler.
I wish you and your readers a peaceful end to the year and a wonderfully productive new year.
Cheers
Robyn
New Zealand
I would love to learn more about goldwork and/or silverwork? Thanks so much for asking! I love your blog and all your designs, however, most of them are beyond my understanding, except for counted cross stitch and embroidery. So thanks for all your helpful instruction with most all types of needlework. Incidentally, I also do simple knitting.
Mary, I visit you blog often and like every thing you offer. Because you want input, below is my list in order of like that I read most:
tutorial, techniques, embroidery – step by step projects, hand embroidery patterns, book reviews, videos, tools, accessories and e-books.
Patricia C
I love everything you do. But one of the things I find most useful is something you didn’t mention. I like hearing about threads. What do they look like, how do they perform, where can you get them. I’ve learned so much about thread since I started reading your website and it makes me feel braver about trying new things–or even knowing that things exist! I won’t spend the money if I really don’t know what something is and without seeing it for yourself, hearing your review is the best thing out there. So more about thread!!
I also sure would like more about frames and hoops too. You have a lot of good information, but I still haven’t gotten brave enough to use anything but an embroidery hoop. How to thread up projects is something I want to see more of.
Thank you!!
First, thank you for your wonderful website! I have no complaints. I love what you are doing. I love being exposed to stitches I’ve never heard of, tools & books I didn’t know existed, & patterns I’ve never dreamed of! I find the step-by-step tutorials very helpful. I’d like a just little more time spent on organization. I am terrible at mixing up needles by size, especially when interrupted during my stitching for any length of time! And are there any ideas out there for making work on embroidery projects more portable?
I teach the hand work classes at our quilt shop and I always give my students your blog to get helpful hints on the embroidery stitches and designs. I enjoy your helpful hints, your reviews on books and gadgets plus your free designs. Keep up the good work. I think if I could I would love to take classes at the Royal Academy. That would be heaven.
Love it all, especially the step by step tutorials
Mary, I just want to thank you for all that you do and all that I have learned and continue to learn from you on your web site. I love everything you do and I really do like to see your pieces develop and I like to know that you also make mistakes and pick stitches out. I thought that only happened to me. I want to see everything that you have been doing continue. You provide a great resource for all of us.
Keep up the good work. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
My first wish would be to have more time to learn and do the needlework that fascinates me so but since that is not a wish you can give I would like to see more stitch techniques and how and where to use them. Patterns are of course always welcome. Since so many of the books are not available and must be ordered the book reviews are a must. I personally enjoy complete kits since it insures I have all the materials to do and learn with. You didn’t ask but I could do without the ebooks, I avoid them whenever possible.
plenty of time and an interesting project.
I have plenty of materials and tools.
ideas and patterns would be very welcome
Happy Christmas
BOB
I live everything you do, snd especially your video tutorials.
One thing I have a lot of trouble with is choosing
the right thread for a project. I keep buying different
kinds of thread, but I still never feel that I have
the right one. So choosing threads us a biggie
for me.
Dear Mary
Just don’t know where to begin in conveying my appreciation for all you do for our global embroidery community. Your tenacity and goodwill is apparent to me and I am sure to all of us each day we open your email.
My wish is that you have an ongoing group of local supporters in your home town who sustain you each week. I am also hopeful that your submission/tender for start up funds for moving your enterprise to a more sustainable future is successful. Have you heard? Share this information with us as I am sure we are all wondering. We are also hanging out for your alphabet book and wonder how that is going. So my wish is that we have the opportunity to continue to enjoy your goodwill.
Annette, Brisbane, Australia
Being new to the needle world, I like it all. I find the video tutorials invaluable. It is so much better than seeing on flat page. I really like seeing how you do projects because everyone may do differently and I see ideas I haven’t before. I didn’t realize there were so many tools either. What it comes to in all honesty is that I am greedy. I want it all.hhahahahhaha
Mary,
Your website is one of the things I look forward to each day! I love it all!! Let me distill my favorites in order to help you a bit with your direction. The things that dazzle me the most are: the stitch patterns, followed closely by the tutorials. My most favorite projects have been the Zentangle Fish and Lattice Jumble. These opened many doors for me in coordinating patterns and textures! New stitches and how-to’s are food for me. Furthermore, the accessibility of these stitches are amazing. If I have forgotten how to do something, all I have to do is to go thru your easy-to-find appendix of projects and stitches.
All other topics are welcomed and enjoyed. I also love your personal touches and comments. Sort of a self-depricating style you have of making us all feel better about messing up.
I have a bit of a thirst for contemporary designs. I suppose if I had to select a want-for-more item, it would be in the contemporary design area. This is not to say that I am not interested in other projects. Love the Jacobean, Japanese, historic and rustic styles also. Ecclesiastical projects are my least favorite as a project I would choose to tackle, but still enchanted with the techniques used and the building of the design.
Thank you for sharing such a wealth of knowledge!!
Karen
Mary- I am a sort of beginner. I recently finished your JOY pattern both vertical and horizontal. Have learned SO MUCH from your website. I just found it a month or so ago.
I love the needlework tutorials. Pls. Have more of them.
The patterns are great,too.
It is fun to watch your continued needlework projects.
E-books sound wonderful,too
I like hearing about products for needlework and books.
Thanks for your great website and wonderful teaching. I am so excited to find somewhere to learn more about embroidery. it seems to be making a comeback and I think it is because it lets us slow down and relax. Then, we are proud to see what we accomplish. Best wishes for a great holiday and Merry Christmas. Looking forward to many new things in needlework in the new year.
Mary,
I love everything thing you do, keep up the variety! I love seeing projects you are working on, and threads and what not that you are using, and seeing how you work through hang ups. The tutorials, pictorial and video, and the book reviews are very helpful! I also like your product reviews, I have yet to invest in expensive tools, frames, lights, etc. but if and when I do I will know the pros and cons from a skilled stitcher!
Thanks for all your hard work!
Hi Mary,I enjoy getting your blog each night. Normally arrives just before midnight here. What do I need for my stitching?-TIME.Have a wonderful Christmas and please continue with the informative blogs in 2014. Georgina
I haven’t done embroidery in a long time. I always used iron on transfers. I can’t draw so how do I get the patterns on the internet to my project or where do I get iron on transfers? Thanks, Sandra
Hi Mary! I would love a tutorial/stitch-a-long like you did for the long and short stitch sampler (we posted progress pics on Flickr, summer 2009) but for traditional padded monogramming. If this were available in e-book format or as a paying class to be joined I would be in it in a heartbeat! I’d love to create a cipher and learn how to stitch it but I just don’t seem to be motivated by the scads of books I’ve already bought. Your approach to learning is very motivational and encouraging and somehow you make it okay to make mistakes and you show us how to learn from them. I enjoy all other aspects of your blog so keep doin’ what you’re doin’! All the best of the Season to you!
I’d love to see some tutorials on hemstitching. And drawn work. And pulled thread.
Your step-by-step pictorials are fabulous!
Sorry, I’m not going to be much help. I love what you do and look forward to reading your blog every day. I would say that I particularly like it when you feature tools, books, and other products. I have made a number of very happy purchases of things I would not have known about but now can’t do without thanks to you!
Keep up the wonderful work!
Hi Mary,
I was wondering if you get notifications of major museum exhibits displaying needlework. I love to look at antique needlework. A feature once and a while as to what is out there to see would be great. Keep up the great work. I can’t tell you the number of times I have searched your database for how to when working on a new project.
Thank you for your hard work.
Jan
Hi Mary,
I taught myself embroidery from your videos – they are great. I love seeing new stitches and how you use them, the lattice sampler was my favorite this year. I like any articles with good pictures in them. The best thing about your site is the technical aspect. You have so much good information about the correct way to do things, good working habits etc that I feel I am learning how to do things properly (even if I choose to cut corners).
Thankyou for a wonderful site and have a great Christmas.
Cherilynne
hard to answer your questions because i love most everything you do and how you do it. i’m not so much into following you step by step on a particular project (i’m being honest here) but do love seeing video tutorials. they seem to spark more interest for me than just seeing something in picture form. you do a terrific job in all the areas you asked about and i think the variety is good as different things appeal to different people. thanks for sharing all that you do.
I particularly like your video tutorials, they are the best! I would like to know more about different needlework techniques. such as crewel and canvas work. I like the patterns you have posted and would like to know what stitches to use for the monograms, for example. I enjoy the projects you post step by step. Book and tool reviews are less important, but reviews of older books are fine with me. I like older books! All in all, you do a great job Mary and I am eager to look at your posts every day. Are the monograms coming up this year? Looking forward to that!
Mary: Here goes: 1.Step by step tutorials, definitely!!! I especially like it when you say something that sticks in my head as I’m making an unfamiliar stitch (example: colonial knot when you said, “make a backwards C”….that stuck in my mind and was extremely helpful.2.Crazy Quilting: I’m doing two crazy quilts and would love to see your take on stitch bands and other embellishments for that genre. 3. Videos….more, more, more! You are such a good teacher and sooo very patient (LOL) as I rewind and rewind your video to learn a particularly difficult (for me) stitch. I have the feeling that you are right there in the room with me. 4. Step by step embroidery projects (like the needlebook!) 5. e books….I can’t wait for that e book on embroidered letters comes out so I can finish another of my projects with my initials in your embroidered letters. Lastly, I wanted to tell you that every day I try to find something beautiful to notice and something to be grateful for. Some days you and your work fulfill those two goals. Thank you so very much for making such a huge amount of information available FREE to all of us. (And for being such a lady when some crude individual complained that you were spending too much time on something she wasn’t interested in….thank goodness there are more people in this world that are like you and not her!) May you have a wonderful Christmas, a very happy New Year and a healthy, happy year to come.
Gratefully, Linda
You took the words out of my mind so agree with everything you wrote
Hi Mary,
I enjoy receiving your email every morning and I have found lots of help and information from your website over the years. I appreciate all that you do. I have taken your advice and made some purchases that have increased my enjoyment of needlework…books, Needlework System 4, magnifying light etc. I like everything you do right now but I would like to make some wishes since you asked us. More step-by-step tutorials, needlework tool reviews, current book reviews and comparisons, videos, a stitch along showing all the how to for a Jacobean project in cotton (not wool) and I would be happy to purchase an E book project. I would like you to look at 16th & 17th century stitches in techniques like pulled & drawn thread including needlelace also raised embroidery/stumpwork. My most important wish is for you to show us things that bring you joy…I think that way you will be happy to continue doing all the wonderful things you have been doing for many years.
Wishing you a happy Christmas and a year filled with your favourite things in 2014.
Dianne
Mary, I especially love your tutorials and book reviews. I don’t have any specific issues or suggestions (sorry!), just more of them. If there aren’t many new ones, what about expanding a bit to textiles in general?
I would also like you to explore more about HOW you make your choices–threads, colors, stitches, and projects. You’ve been doing that a lot lately with the latest projects and I appreciate that. Especially when you are mixing stitches, what goes through your head in deciding what would look good?
Unfortunately, I’m not excited about goldwork, but, as you aptly say–It’s your blog.
Debbie D
Hello Mary, first and foremost thank you so much for all your time and effort to share with us this wonderful gift of yours giving us the opportunity of seeing and learning everthing about embroidery. I love all embroidery, Crewel,Crazy Patch, bead Embellishing and Ribbon embroidery being my favourites. Seeing all the topics you cover from needles to fabrics and the availability of it and patterns and books to read, I would say you have covered it all, thank you once again for being such a wonderful Teacher of Embroidery. I dont have the newest Technology but get to see most of your work in the News letters. I wish you and your family a wonderful Christmas Season and New Year.
Dear Mary, I adore everything that you have done. It is a great inspiration and has added much to my knowledge. I really enjoy the tutorials. I have been using a needle since I was quite young and always need a refresher. I live in rural Maine and need to do ordering to get the yummy things. Please keep up your good work. Thank you, Sarah
Good golly, yes to all of the above. Your blog is stellar, and the content never disappoints.
So agree I live in Queensland Australia and we don’t have anyone like you here at least not doing tutorial and all the rest you do on a blog zit can be a challenge to get all the supplies you use as well . But thank you for all you are doing and Happy Christmas to you and your family and everyone reading these comments
More time, more skill……………Every day I wait in anticipation for your email, when I see what you have done I go for it too (not quite the same perfection) but that then gives me so many projects on the go at one time. Just like a kid in a candy store. A couple of times a year I punish myself by not starting anything new and finish all of them. Then with clear conscience I start again. I think I have an embroidery obsession. My embroidery wish is to go do some workshops in England at the Royal Society of Embroiderers or with other like experts to give me some of the wonderful technical tips I so lack. Being retired form the workforce allows me time for my garden and embroidery.
Thank you Mary and I wish you and yours a wonderful christmas and look forward to more of your wonderful work in 2014
Well this is the first year I have followed your post and I have loved every moment. You have given such great information and I love the teaching. I guess I am not the one to say what else I would like because I really can’t think of anything that you haven’t tried to supply. Having said that–I would like to learn more about Brazilian embroidery. Thank you for all the work you have done for our learning and pleasure.
Love love love all the amazing information you provide. The embroidered eggs are fabulous but I am having trouble following the directions. Would love to see a video on how to do them if possible, thank you.
I like it when you refer us to your tutorials and other parts of your web site. I actually have not sat myself down and explored how much information is there. The more you tell us what tutorials you already have, the more we are pointed to the information. You have an excellent blog. We all are inspired by it.
Thank you
Yes yes yes! Keep writing about EVERYTHING! Mary, please keep all of the items on your list of things to write about in2014!
I read your message in my email everyday. I have learned so much in the past year…about things that I had no clue were a part of surface embroidery…that you have written about! I don’t want you to focus on some one or two things…please keep the diversity of your ideas. I really enjoy your incite!
I have purchased a number of books/accessories/thread/etc. based on your in depth writing about them. I had no idea that I needed/wanted the books/accessories/thread/etc. because I did not know that they existed until you wrote about them! Please keep writing about everything!
Bonnie
I would like Hardanger 101. Also my mother used to do cutwork tablecloths, napkins, hankies… Silk threads and beautiful material. She bought the fabric with a like blue stamping of the pattern on it. Do they still make these pieces? I have never completed a Hardanger piece because I am always afraid to cut the threads.
Put this on a wish list
Debbie Beam
Yes! I agree some Hardanger would be great, just the basics.
I too would love to see some Hardanger 101
If you want to learn Hardanger, you might want to check out the Nordic Needle web site. The owner of the store is passionate about Hardanger. Among the oodles of Hardanger projects, clubs, patterns and books is a line of bookmarks specifically designed to teach Hardanger techniques to novices. Can you tell that I would love a set.
Hi Mary, let me begin with a big thank you for your blog…I love it and have learned a lot. I want to make a crazy quilt, so my primary wish is to learn how to do the various stitches…step by step. That said, I appreciate all of your work and am happy with whatever you put forth.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Best,
Shirley
Shirley, you may also want to join CQEorNewbies. It is a very good group for beginners and for long time CQ’ing people.
There are basically only about 20 stitches, but the number of possibilites is infinite. A lady, Carol Summers, quite a few years ago viaited museums and private collections copying each different that the CQers of old used in their work. Her book is out of print, but the rumors suggest that it will be reprinted. She has put many of the possibilites together to get a nice set of more than 10,000 stitch combinations.
Hugs,
Patricia
Hi Mary,
Love your work!
My wishes would be:
1. Some tips on ribbon embroidery
2. tips on using silk for silk embroidery, especially the kind made famous by Chinese embroiderers like Margaret lee
3. Any chance of learning a bit about stump work?
Thank you and have a safe and merry xmas!
Hi Mary would love to see instructions for us lefties especially video tutorials
I would love to see more samplers. I enjoy learning and practicing different stitches. Also, organizing tools.
Would love to see some Blackwork. I like the variety you’ve had, I think your doing great. Some finishing tutorials/videos would be great (ornaments etc.).
Mary,
I love your blog and all your suggestions of things to share in 2014. One you did not mention is how you take such good photos of you needlework! I’d be interested in what camera you use and how you get such good close ups as well as any lighting tips as you always seem to have really good photos to share with us. Merry Christmas and all the best for the coming year!
Mary
I love all the things you share on here already. I would like to see more pulled thread embroidery techniques and stumpwork and brazilian embroidery. I liked those embroidered real eggs too. Thank you Mary I love reading your emails everyday. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and new year.
Robin
My wish is for you to come to my house and give me personal, hands-on lessons! lolol
Seriously, though, just more of what you are doing.
Dear Mary,
We all love what you do. I have learned so many things from you. I would like to learn some edging stitches . I have seen some that look like buttonhole but they are grouped together such as in hem stitching. You do a wonderful job and I look forward to every day and your email I have given your website to many of my stitching friends.
Firstly, I’m extremely grateful for all the time, thought, organisation and effort that you put into this wonderful resource. Thank-you so much. Having just recently retired, I’m in the lucky position of now being able to put more time into embroidery.
I’ve particularly valued / would value more of:
• Discussions about embroidery fabrics. Some of these are expensive, so reading reviews and comments has hopefully allowed me to spend money wisely on some good fabric for my favoured techniques.
• Finding ways to incorporate embroidery into everyday practical items, and the decisions re fabric & threads that will accompany the choices. Wall space is limited;I don’t wear embroidery (though that may change) and don’t (yet?) have grandchildren to embroider for, so am always on the look out for practical items to embroider that fit comfortably in a casual, mostly male household. I’m favouring a set of natural linen cushions for each season, with appropriate seasonal designs… plus some robust, natural-look table linens, but I’m sure others would have some great ideas.
• Techniques: I particularly like drawn thread work, pulled thread work & Schwalm. (I have some of Luzine’s books lined up for a Schwalm project after first reading about them on Needle’n’thread).
• I’m also very drawn to landscape embroidery and would love to know more about some of the layered, landscape embroidery techniques such as those used by artists like Judy Wilford & Glenys Leske (Aus) … and the USA artist you highlighted in a previous post whose work reminded you of your own rural area (Sorry – can’t remember her name & can’t find the post at short notice). A tutorial or two on these artist’s techniques would be just wonderful.
• Love reading about new tools, new threads, organisational ideas, pattern resources, etc.
I have found value in everything you produce. Even if I don’t choose the style of embroidery, it’s valuable to learn from your thinking and decision making…and I love your friendly, conversational style. Also love reading others’ comments – so much inspiration & knowledge out there!
Tutorials, please. Though, it would seem like showing different techniques, and how to use the tools definitely falls into that category.
I must say that I like everything about your blog, Mary, and I have been enjoying it for a few years. If I were granted a wish, it would be for some articles on fabric. I embroider, but I do not have much experience in sewing, and I would like to understand fabrics and feel more confident in choosing for a project, such as a tablecloth. Thanks for all you do.
Dear Mary,
I have been following your blog for several years and I look forward to it everyday. I have learned so much about needlework. I really enjoy watching projects progress,even the type that I know I will never attempt. I would like to understand how to select which stitch to use. For instance when I see an unworked crewel pattern I don’t know which stitch would work best to fill in the space. How do you choose? I would also enjoy an article about stitching on heavier fabrics such as wool and velvet. I like to do crazy quilting with wool and have difficulty with hooping.
I think ebook tutorials would be wonderful.
Keep up the hard work and have a great holiday and new year. Ahelley
Punchneedle embroidery (techniques, patterns, etc.) – it’s completely absent on this blog.
Hi Mary, you are my inspiration and I am so glad I found you …… I am really grateful for all you share ….. the one thing I would like to learn from you is white on white embroidery ….. the stitches used ….. and the kinds of threads that can be used ….. thank you so much for everything ….. God bless
Hello from Australia – it is 39 degrees C outside and I am HOT! Not really the best weather for embroidery so I am here to read about the lovely things you have in your blog. I have to say I thought long and hard about what I need/want – and really I love this pretty much as it is. Your step by step instructions with photos are so clear, I enjoy hearing about the project decisions you make – especially when you tell us what did NOT work! Such a relief that things don’t always work for a professional. Anyway I am interested in Japanese and Chinese embroidery, particularly how to work with flat silks (untwisted)so if you have any more about this I would love it.
Have a lovely Christmas – and think of us sweltering down here!! Patti
Patti…
Here in the USA we still are on the “old” Fahrenheit measure for temperature. When you said in your message that your temp was 39 degrees C I got very curious and did some mathematical calculations. I found out that your temp is the equivalent of 102.2 degrees F! Wow wow wow! No wonder you said you were sweltering!
In the middle of last night when I walked my doggies it was 6 degrees F outside — which converts to -14.4444 degrees C! So please think of those of us who are freezing in Northeast USA!
Merry Christmas!
Bonnie
Dear Mary , Am an avid reader of your blog every day. I belong to Embroiderer’s Guild in Australia & am now in my 70’s & have been embroidering since I was a young girl with my Gran & later at school where I had a great teacher . Especially love the stitch techniques & video tutorials as I learn something new each time & they are a wonderful reference source .Love reading book reviews also but as I have so many & can’t fit any more on my shelves I try to show restraint in that area [doesn’t always work ].Love it all , even mistakes ,it makes me feel better knowing even experts can succumb to unsewing occaisionally .Thank you & Happy Christmas from down under . Doreen .
Sorry to not be of much help. I LOVE everything you are already doing.
Its so nice to have variety. Colors, couching, designs, how to’s, video’s.
I love it all.
Great job. Look forward to the new year with you.
Thanks for being you. Christine, Redding, CA
Mary- I am an avid needlepointer doing little>no embroidery, & thoroughly enjoying learning from you. I enjoy tools, books, including old & out of print ones, and your ecclesiastical gold work. I oo-d & ah-d over the Medallion, & enjoy your great photography. Any needlepoint info appreciated, but I follow other blogs for it. Just keep up your great work.
Dear Mary
Many thanks for all the effort you put into your blog. I have been following you for about a year now, and really enjoy all your work, so would appreciate you continuing with those topics.
I would like to also read about embroidery related travel and courses across the world. Like Lauren Strach I enjoyed reading about the Lady Anne retreat, and I have had the chance to do a course at the Royal School of Needlework, Hampton Court Palace in the UK. I love to travel, and to combine it with an embroidery course would be ideal for me.
We have lots of courses in New Zealand which may interest people. Each year in March there is Otago Embroidery School in Wanaka on the South Island, and the Great Escape in Auckland on the North Island. Perfect for travelers to NZ.
Other readers might be able to provide information on courses in their part of the world.
Finally I’d like to hear how your business application went.
Looking forward to reading your blog in 2014!
Happy Christmas to you and yours,
Di
I like hand embroidery patterns,
Projects and step by step tutorials
You have done a great job so far
I wish you the best in the coming year
Dhruva
Sibby December 18,2013, at 5:19pm
Hi Mary,
Just love all your work.
Have no know idea how to start or do Triangular Ground, could you tell and show me ,please?What do you know about “double decker triangular ground”, or is that just a joke?(bobbin lace stitches). Help with counted cross stitch,….e-books.
Thank you for all your wonderful help.
Sibby.Australia.
Please don’t change a thing! I love it all, just the way you’re doing it now.
Hi Mary, one of the tings that I value the most are your book and magazine reviews. I have purchased several on your recommendation and have been very pleased with them. Living here in South Africa we are out on a limb regarding the availability of many things related to embroidery, so we need all the help we can get. My own speciality is Needle painting, for which I have developed a curved stitch so that I not only shade by colour but follow form and shape too.I enjoy teaching this method to other interested pupils. Please do continue with your newsletter even if you don’t manage to put it out daily, we need you. Best wishes for the Festive Season Jenny
Mary, like other I love reading your blog whilst not being as active as I’d like in my own craft!
One longtime goal of mine is to make a crazy quilt with my mothers lovely fabrics (and a few of my grand mothers!) and using some of my fathers ties. Could you help with that please?
In the meantime Happy Christmas – as we still say in England! – to you and all your readers.
Mary, like others I love reading your blog whilst not being as active as I’d like in my own craft!
One longtime goal of mine is to make a crazy quilt with my mothers lovely fabrics (and a few of my grand mothers!) and using some of my fathers ties. Could you help with that please?
In the meantime Happy Christmas – as we still say in England! – to you and all your readers.
Hi Mary, I live in Australia so some of the products you survey arn’t available and that is why the links are so important.I am a ‘crazy’quilter and you are to blame. Everything that I have learned has come from yourself but I do thank you for the obsession. I would like more ribbon, Brazilian anything like that. In fact keep doing what you are doing, I’ll be happy.
Lyn
Hi Mary,
Your website is full and fascinating and contains so much. It is difficult to think of something else. I am going to have a go at Tambour work when I can find my equipment for it. Bought it earlier in the year but cannot lay my hands on it. I am having more shelves put in my cupboard to stop the shelves from sagging under the weight.
I am in a quandry about what new I can teach my students this year. Shadow work comes to mind as something they have requested so perhaps some hints on that from you would be helpful. You may have done this already I have not looked.
I like the e books. In fact your site is the delight of every day.
I am new to your site and have little experience stitching. I love you site, it is the first thing I read everyday. So in short here is my answer…yes. I appreciate any and all help that you offer. Thank you so much for all of your help !!
Hi Mary,
I love looking at your work – not necessarily the step-by-step in-progress part as much as the completed isn’t-it-beautiful part. I get inspiration from looking at detailed photos of finished projects (yours and others); then I use your tutorials to figure out how to do any part of my plan that I don’t already know how to do. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
I’m totally brand new so can’t offer helpful tidbits. I just want to thank you for such a comprehensive site. The site is informative, well organized, it’s easy to find any tips or techniques you’re looking for, you cover a broad spectrum of techniques and styles, everyday concerns, etc…
Mary, I love your blog and all of the beautiful hand made work you show. Although I like the variety you have, I personally would prefer to see more needlework tutorials, step -by-step directions, more needle work videos, needle work techniques for new stitching like black work and crazy quilting. I also love the blogs regarding tools, I am a girl who loves her tools! Even if you didn’t change a thing, I would still love your informative and inspiring blog. Happy Holidays! ~Gin~
There isn’t anything that I haven’t enjoyed. I’ve benefited from your tools and book reviews immensely. Also appreciate your threads/materials reviews and the sources for same.
Love the patterns you offer and they are my go to source when I’m looking for a project. In fact, I’m working on the Holly & berries right now. Thought I would do it with my new tambour hook but found I needed much more practice first!! So I’m using simple stem stitch.
I visit this site every day. Am never disappointed.
Hi Mary! Thank you so much for your blog and website! I found your site last year, when I took up hand embroidery after not doing it since childhood. Your stitch videos were invaluable to me, reteaching me stitches I’d forgotten, and new ones too!
My answers to your questions….. YES! to all of the above! I love being introduced to things I’ve never seen, both Stitching styles and techniques as well as products.
As far as styles I’m interested in learning more about… Brazilian is something I’d like to learn more of. My grandmother ect me some beautiful Brazilian Embroidery pieces, and between studying them, and your videos I’ve learned several stitches, but I’d like to learn more. I’m also interested in Blackwork and chickenscratch too.
I hope you have a great holiday season! Can’t wait to see what comes here next year!
hmmm….. all i know is i want this needle and thread site going strong… in 2014 and in the following years too.
needle work tutorials, e-book, and patterns(with suggested stitches) these come to my mind first.
accessories and tools are very interesting for me , specially because in the small town i have settled in , in Kerala, India, i dont see any of these things and cant dream of getting them either. but its always nice to know about them
I have made this page my home page, so tht i dont miss out the dily posts…so i need this page going strong 🙂
Hi;
I am a planner and list maker also. The lists keep me focused and prevent me from feeling overwhelmed. There is so much I want to accomplish in my life and the planning helps me feel I am in control of my choices.
Thank you for polling your readers.
1) I would have to say that hand embroidery patterns would be at the top of my wish list. I am a pattern junkie for sure so that craving is never satisfied no matter how many resources I accumulate. I am always on the lookout for the next inspiration.
2) After that, I would say I really love and learn a lot from the step-by-step techniques. I so enjoyed the Jacobean Jumble and keep hoping you will do another one with lots of paisley shapes.
3) The video tutorials would be next. There are some stiches I just need to watch over and over. I still have not mastered the rope stitch much to my chagrin. I really need help with it and watching the video over and over is helpful in times like those.
4) Book Reviews are great. I really hate making a poor choice and purchasing a resource. And I love to learn about free and additional resources availble.
But in summary, I love pretty much everything at your site. If it remained the same it would still be fantastic.
Thanks
Hi Mary!
I read every post you make. Some I am completely absorbed, some I am laughing out loud and peaking the interest of my husband, and a few I am not really interested at all, but I read them in case I may learn something! LOL!
I would like more tutorials, but the video tutorials aren’t necessary for me unless it is a complicated stitch in written form. Like the bullion stitch – it isn’t hard to do, but if I hadn’t seen you do it, I would still be clueless. I just like to learn new stitches.
I would like to learn a few more techniques, like drawn thread, ribbon embroidery and perhaps a couple of small projects geared towards step by step needle painting.
I am not a real big embroidery book reader. I can read anything on the history of the art, but I find I collect patterns more so than books. That being said, any patterns you feel like posting to your blog, know that I will have a copy of it downloaded pretty quick, indeed!
We have all said it so many times, but we are very grateful for you sharing your talents with us. There are so many people that you reach, that once you give a good review of a product, by mid-day it is either sold out or very nearly sold out across the Internet. You are one of the arbiters online of what constitutes Good Embroidery Practices, and a symposium anywhere would sell out immediately if you were a speaker/instructor. Thanks Mary, from the bottom of my heart. Peace be with you.
Mary: I would like to be able to stitch along with you on a sampler for the year. Perhaps give us a few ideas on the size of fabric we will need and some idea of what we can have on it to be prepared ahead of time. Then when you show us a new stitch for the month we can practice it. I love the Jacobethian style so I know that I will feature something like that. So stitch along with Mary would be my number one request.
My second request is black work. I have a lot of trouble with counted cross stitch. It doesn’t hold my interest and it is so picky. But for whatever reason the black work seems like I might be able to handle it. How do we set up a project? I am not even sure what I would use it for. A table runner? As an accent on an apron?
I enjoy most everything you cover so I know whatever else you write on it will be enjoyable. On tools and accessories perhaps get your audience involved and have them send in a photo of their favorite tool and / or accessory. It would be neat to see all the pin cushions or needle holders out there.
Thank you for asking for our input. I look forward to seeing all the fun stuff you bring to life for us.
Ebooks- yes. I am still planning on getting the tiny bits one. Maybe after doing a year of monthly samplers you might have enough for another ebook- samplers and ideas. We could submit photos for ideas in the book.
I send you my very best wishes for your continued health and joy and a very Merry Christmas and a happy new year.
Collette Koll, Kansas City, Missouri
Hi Mary You have such a lovely mixture of everything love the tutorials I think it is so useful to have the ability just to dip in and out of what ever I am interested at the moment. I do change my mind quite a bit of the time, so would not like to say which way to go. Thank you so much for your emails and website.
I like all of the above except needlwork patterns and e-books.
I would love to see some video tutorials on finishing techniques. It seems to be the part I have the most trouble with.
I like everything you cover, but especially the tools and accessories, and goldwork. Assisi and drawn thread techniques would be interesting, especially videos on drawn thread, as it is hard to pick up from a book.
Mary, your stitch videos are the best feature of your blog! Second best feature is the way you have items indexed so a search of your archives returns all your articles in one list–awesome. Yesterday, your stitch video came in handy when I was showing a friend Colonial Knot. I’m a left-hander so my right-handed demo got an assist from your video on my iPhone. She practiced a few times, then went home to practice with your website video at her leisure. Win-win-win. Thanks for sharing what you know & ferreting out new info for our mutual stitching pleasure. Lead on!
When I first started reading your blog, I realized I found a myriad of wonders! I just love reading it all. I think what I appreciate and love the most are the step by step tutorials and the videos. I do like the tools reviews too because you give online resources as well. It’s all fabulous!
thank you
Its all good, but most especially I like the
works in progress, tutorials and little try this
samples.
In the future my preference would be to see
Assisi, Blackwork,Crewel, and Drawn Thread.
Many thanks for your great site!!!
Mary, Just let me start with… You are amazing! I can’t believe all you accomplish and how beautiful it is. (No, I do believe it!) I love your website and I have been getting and following along, your newsletter for about a year. Thanks so much.
I still love your original wool flame. I can take the hot. I would like to stitch in wool, but I don’t know what to buy. Could you tell me about yours and where to buy it?
Keep up the wonderful work and thanks again.
Merry Christmas. Susy from San Diego, CA.
Hi, Susy! I get the wool threads from Hedgehog Handworks – They’re just up the road from you, outside Los Angeles. You can find them online here: http://www.hedgehoghandworks.com – the wool I’m using is Fine d’Aubusson. I’m glad you enjoy Needle ‘n Thread! Thanks for your comment! ~MC
Mary,
Your video tutorials are great. I am left-handed, but can use them along with “The Left-Handed Embroiderer’s Companion” to learn new stitches. I agree with Linda D., and need to get more adventurous in moving from line drawing to stitches. Even though I may not care for a particular project or technique, I still learn from seeing it and reading how it is done. Individual projects are great…they often spur me on to something similar. Loved the redwork runner. Information on threads and fabrics as well as techniques and tools and books is most helpful. In short : keep going!
Debbie S.
I would love a stumpwork project step by step. I have completed several small projects on my own but would love to see how you would approach a project. If not a project, perhaps a detached needle lace tutorial or covered bead tutorial? The detached elements are the trickiest!
Mary:
After reading all of the answers (and such fun), I could not help but add one more item, altho’ my first answer did not contain it: DO NOT CHANGE A THING! What you do benefits all of us out here in cyber space. Also, what you do tells us that you have a great compassion and love for embroidery. A great BIG THANK YOU is sent to you with much love.
I would enjoy you illustrating the various stages of an embroidered box project. The little cottage that was published by the Australian magazine, “Inspirations”, is one of their most popular kits, so I believe there would be a healthy interest in your web family. Not only that, but if you have ever tried to buy books on making fabric boxes (as I have), you know that they are somewhat scarce. So the literature would benefit from a web project of this type, and could likely turn into another successful ebook for You!
Mary, I love the variety of things you share with us now. I particularly like the book reviews and the techniques and tutorials. I am interested in drawn thread work and antique sampler reproductions. But I am delighted with all that you post. If you didn’t change a thing, I would be happy! Thanks!
Mary,
I love your newsletter. You do beautiful work, and are really good at how you share it with us.
I am a beginner at embroidery; in fact, all I’ve done is some easy designs with stem stitch. My first love is cross stitch (I’d love to see more of that!). But what I’d love to see are some e-books on some of your easier pieces, like that wild colorful jumble you did (I don’t remember the name). I’d also like an online class for beginners.
Thanks for all your hard work
Melissa
Hi Mary,
You’ve had so much input from your readers I’m not sure if you’ll need any more but I’ve had a good think … 🙂
I came across your website when I was looking for information on Lefkara embroidery and your book review was so helpful. It’s good that you include a mix of harder-to-find books in your reviews as well as current titles. Often the digitised synopsis on shopping sites is minimal or even non-existent with out-of-print books, so your reviews have often helped me weigh up how useful a book will be and to spot a good deal when I see it. I like your detailed coverage of exactly what is in a book, why it is helpful (or not) and the scans of some of the pages. (It’s often the photos which tip me into buying). 🙂 I also appreciate being introduced to books I might not otherwise have noticed such as ‘Interwoven Globe’ which you reviewed recently. I’m enjoying reading that right now!
What else … I like the stitch fun series; especially the videos. I always like reading updates on your current project eg the Lattice Sampler and Mission Rose. Although I’m yet to use one of your line-patterns (I’m disciplining myself to complete a large project first!) they always inspire me and I intend to try one soon.
Oh … and future step-by-step projects or technique masterclasses … well anything in the whitework or goldwork line definitely floats my boat. 🙂 Often though, you surprise me with something new which gets added my embroidery technique wish list, like tambour embroidery.
So … really, I guess more of what you already do would be just lovely! Thank you for each embroidery treat you share.
Kathryn
Mary, I love your step by step tutorials and everything you do. Your photos are terrific and very helpful. But my wish is nowhere on your list of suggestions! I need restoration help.
Every year at the big holidays I get out my table linens to choose what I am going to use. And every year I am dismayed that I still have not dealt with problems on some pieces. They end up rejected for table use because there isn’t any more time to spend making them decent again. Granted, not all of my linens are embroidered, but some are. I bet many of us have things made by our elders that we cannot part with but are not in good enough condition to use.
I would like to see information on treating old stains on table linens (I have had issues with the product Restore).
I would also like a proper ironing tutorial. Although my grandmothers both taught me well about pressing, I still have trouble getting old fold lines out of my cloths even though I try to put them away with folds in different places. This would also be helpful with dealing with folds on packaged fabrics.
Mary, I have been reading through your archives. In 2006 you had a couple of entries in a series? I am not sure it was but it was your embroidered garden thing and in 2006 there were a couple of gorgeous flowers. I would like to see a whole series of these in your blog but also a prepared booklet. That’s maybe asking a lot but I certainly did like the ones I saw.
In addition to the embroidered flower I suggested I did mean to say how much I appreciate all you do and will be happy with whatever you decide. Best wishes for the coming year, Charlotte
Hi Mary,
You have the best needlework blog I know. I especially love your video tutorials; your candid, trustworthy reviews of books and tools; and your stitch fun series.
My wish list would include video tutorials for using some tools (setting up a frame, using a laying tool) and canvas work. I also like pulled-thread work. But I’ll be reading your blog whatever you choose to feature.
Thank you for your generous sharing of your expertise, and happy holidays to you!
Dear Mary
I would love you to set up a tutorial on Tambour embroidery that would be great. Also I love your ebooks so perhaps more of them and patterns to fit specific projects as you have stated above or how to design and draw patterns I know you have covered some of these in your posts but maybe a more detailed pattern making, designing and drawing I would love to create my own pattern. I know these are general ideas but because you already cover so much on needle n’ thread it’s difficult to pin down specific embroidery items, but thanks so much for asking us you are so kind.
Regards Anita Simmance
Hi Mary
First of all your site is EXTRA SUPER but i shall only make some suggestions.
1-how to plan to use many different types of embroidery techniques in one project… where to do this and that.
2-more on techniques that are not written much about like cut work and drawn thread work
3-embroideries used in other parts of the world
5-new ways of doing a certain technique AND which is BEAUTIFUL
6- PDFs on the fun stitch series”combo stitches” for sale and dvd’s for all your step by step tutorials
7-forgotten techniques which are awesome
8- how to use paint and other things to enhance the embroidery project
9-keeping all the things you do on your site
Happy Stitching!
I never cease to be amazed at the amount of needlework you accomplish daily!!!! Am interested in learning where in Kansas you live. We live outside of Winfield. I love doing Hardanger embroidery and am currently working on a month-by-month project from Nordic Needle. Small count cross stitch is also a passion, with many challenging specialty stitches involved. Am especially partial to samplers. Keep up the good work!!!
I love your inspiring blog, and have learned SO much!
I also would like to read more about finishing works; mounting, framing, etc. And I would like to learn bead embroidery as well.
Aside from that, I am “on pins and needles” waiting for the Alphabet e-book!
Mary,
Thank you for asking. Gold work and construction/deconstruction of old pieces. I find them extremely helpful and instructive.
Oh, Mary, please don’t change a thing. I love being able to go back to video lessons, I love the variety of your projects, and I really love that you return to the projects as you progress on them. I never tire, either, of seeing how you are so willing to remove stitches when you aren’t pleased with the results. It gives me courage to try new things and be willing to redo, too. Keep doing everything you are doing, you are a real inspiration.
G;day there Mary,
“And that brings me to how you can help me do what I do, better than I’m now doing it.” Goodness gracious Mary, do you want to blow our minds completely?! The old saying…Good, Better, Best, Never let it rest, until your Good is Better and your Better Best. Congratulation, you’ve done it!
But, yes your questions and wonderings are appropriate in helping both you and us. I’d like all the categories you’ve mentioned and are doing to keep coming. Having said that, it must be difficult wondering what to show us next as you’ve covered so very much. So…
* I’d like to see more step by step projects, especially like the Rooster type one pictured and the blackwork fish. I’d suggest designs that are of particular interest to you as they can be quite on-going and if you love your design then the freshness of your interest transfers to us as well. (99.9999999% of us, remembering a past problem)
* I’m interested in Or Nue (spelling?) otherwise not a gold work fan generally but I still find it very interesting watching the progress, taking in the tips and learning to appreciate it.
* Any off-the-frame freestyle embroidery where the fabric can be manipulated, especially with randomly added elements like a little cluster of beads half hidden under a fold and bunched up bits of fabric secured with an unexpected filling stitch or a sort of random smocked type of gathering leaving some open spaces large enough to fill with their own little worlds of whatever comes to mind, from traditional to anything the tides of creative currents wash in.
*Articles on old embroidery styles and techniques and how they came about, how they applied to fashion then and how they are or could be applied to today.
* Any types of kids stitching and projects. I always liked to see what you were doing with your niece or organised for kids groups, and the high school too. I think you had something going there one time?
* Introducing us to new, or new to you, stitching or needlework related sites from tools, accessories and even museums or art craft types that are of interest stitching wise. Some interesting textile artists who incorporate needle and thread into their artistic endeavours would be of great interest to me.
* The art of breaking traditions and rules (or perceived rules) on everything from colour, threads and stitches etc with wonderful results.
* Ideas on how to make the best cream puff custard and…just trickin’!…but what about some more ‘little things’ too please.
Hope you can read between the lines of my ramblings Mary. Thank you for your interest in us. Cheers, Kath.
I read every one of your blogs, some with much more interest than others, and they are expanding my embroidery interests (not to mention my collection of gadgets and needlework library.)
I’d like to request an in depth Hardanger tutorial. The stitches and drawn thread work fascinates me. I’m self-taught and would like to perfect my skills.
I think your videos (and the still photos, too) of embroidery stitches are priceless. Keep expanding those.
Thank you for all your efforts.
Merry Christmas
It’s hard to give suggestions to someone who is a master at so many embroidery skills and I thank you for your willingness to share them with us. I love your free downloads and have a collection of them to inspire me. I’d like to see pictures of the full process for various techniques such as the transfer process for line drawings, the stretching process for gold work threads, the choices available in fabrics for projects, etc. As a left-handed stitcher I use Yvette Stanton’s book frequently to transpose the stitches used in projects but would appreciate more guidance for left-handers. In addition you could mention to people that their public libraries are a great resource for obtaining copies of out-of-print titles or simply just to borrow a book that one doesn’t necessarily want to buy; if a library doesn’t own a title they can use an interlibrary loan process to borrow something from another library. (Can you tell I’m a retired librarian?) Thank you for everything you share with us.
Mary,
I love your daily posts and the wonderful assortment of diverse needlearts history, technique and inspiration. As an experienced needleworker, I am usually drawn to your projects that are more advanced or posts about refining advanced techniques. However, I have to confess that I have learned from the “fun” projects that you include as well. And isn’t that the point, after all? I noticed that there were some comments in support of more historical needlework and older needlework techniques. I love historical needlework- particularly 17th and 18th century works- Queen’s Stitch, Irish Stitch (Bargello or Flame), Surface Embroidery (Crewel), etc.
What I really appreciate from your posts is that there is a commitment to quality. Many of us have wandered around on the internet for years trying to find the information that you so graciously share with us. I love learning a technique that I have never seen before. I would not change your format. You do a fine job of showing a wide range of needlework techniques, product review, etc. Thank you for your dedication and for sharing your incredible knowledge with us all.
Seasons Greetings. You are right on the top of my favorite websites and learn
From every post. My wish is the easiest – I wish for more hours in every day
For all the projects I would love to do! An E book of crewel patterns would
Be wonderful. Crewel kits are getting harder and harder to find and since
I am drawn to the more traditional crewel colors, a lot of kits I do find are
In untraditional colors and patterns. One idea I had was a small project each
Month using a different technique so you can try on something small to see
If you would like to do more. Looking forward to whatever you share with
Us all next year, so keep on keeping on in health and happiness in 2014!
I had never heard of Colbert Embroidery until your picture – so looked it up – another item learned from Needle n’Thread. Thank you.
Look forward to anything you post – always interesting and a learning experience.
Peggy
I think I’ve mentioned before Mary, whenever I’ve been stuck on a particular technique and googled looking for an answer, your site always comes up tops with the answers.
So I would always be happy with video tutorials on stitch technique etc. I also like reading about the ‘tools for the job’.
Thinking about it Mary, just keep on doing what you do, and I more than happy, and thank you.
I would love to see more ideas and tips on doing Goldwork. I have been taking a few classes and learning from others but there is no such thing as too many tips and tricks from others. I have already learned from you about using a plunging lasso which was way more help than I thought it would be when I first read about it.
Mary, like so many before me I very much enjoy our daily visits over a couple of cups of tea. You have SO much available information and you are more than happy to share!
I began doing embroidery when I was almost 6 years old. giving me 60+ years of experience, but each day I learn somthing new, or somthing pops to the surface of my brain. Each of your posts is very welcome, and I do find that it the best way to start the day, in a new post to either cause us to think about something, with the knowledge that a fair number of the posts will be so exciting that I will want to get all of the tools and threads To start the project immediately!
Hi Mary,
First a big Thank You for all the work you do to provide an inspiring and informative needlework site. I realize it’s a “blog”, but it is so much more. I start my day w a cup of tea and NeedlenThread, always intrigued to what the subject will be.
As many readers have suggested, I too, would like to see some articles on types of fabric to use and selecting the best thread for specific fabrics. I’d love a “follow along” project in beginner goldwork with enough “notice” that I could buy the materials in advance. A ‘how-to’ for embroidering on velvet and other specialty cloth would be appreciated. Another helpful ‘plus’, a ‘buyers-guide’ to the different places you use to purchase your diverse amount of supplies. I know some of these via your site, but I loved hearing (and seeing) Mulberry Silks.
Best wishes to you and stay warm!
To learn Elizabethan stitches.
Hi Mary,
I like all the things you review. As far as extended projects, I really don’t want to see anymore Goldwork this coming year. You have done 2 extended projects in the last two years. What I would like to see is some Drawn Thread work, and some Cutwork. I don’t think you’ve touched on those. Or maybe even a small Hardanger piece. I did think of you when I got my new Inspirations and saw the ornament Precious Gold. Looked right up your alley.
I’m sure most of the suggestions will cover mine. However the video stitch tutorials are very helpful – keep it up! I would like to see some application of embroidery techniques on and for clothing as opposed to artwork, even as a suggested application at the end of a stitch tutorial. When you list sources, events etc. it would be so wonderful if you could list one or two from Canada. It just makes ordering that much simpler. There have been requests for smocking. I would love to see an infant nightie with simple smocking at neck and wrist- both pattern and stitching. Onesie’s are all the rage but man on man! was my mother right about how essential they are when you want to check a (just) sleeping newborn’s diaper without waking them! I ask in hopeful anticipation of a grandchild. I will keep thinking anyway, Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Maggie
Me again. I would love more information on sources for fabrics, and again some in Canada if possible. I would love for you to visit Toronto’s Royal Ontario Museum and perhaps the textile museum of Canada. The ROM has an extensive fabrics and fashion section. It would be fun to see your take on it. As always tools of the trade are great articles as are your book reviews. I only ask for……………perhaps the odd Canadian source??
I like Casalguidini embroidery. That would be a fun project perhaps.
Regards
Margaret
I am french and I love all(even if the translation is not still good ) , because all is interesting , so you are the best for me
Thank you very much
I am looking for a specific project. I want to embroider a Christmas Tree skirt, but I am not a designer and I cannot find anything that I like. My sources are limited and I wonder if you can direct me to some place I might find something
that looks like you designed it!!
Hi Mary. I would like some help or advice on using a curved needle. I need to do so occasionally and don’t find it easy!
Thanks
Derelys
Hi Mary, there are already so terribly many comments with wishes and proposals – so I will tell you just that I like most the photographed stitches – the how-to and samples for those stitches. But everything is wonderful what you are showing. It is a treat to follow your blog.
Hi Mary, I discovered your daily email sign up early this year and absolutely love it! I have cross stitched for many years but am relatively new to other forms of embroidery so your site is perfect. The things I particularly like (and would love to continue to see in 2014) are: video tutorials (stitch techniques,problem and trouble shooting), your ongoing projects (including all the errors/changes because I believe that’s how we learn and it is comforting to us new and inexperienced folks to know that these mistakes can be overcome), e-books and downloads (love them – so practical and inspirational), on-line classes and reviews of new products. Hmm – sounds like more of the same to me and why not? Your site is wonderful and your passion for embroidery infectious. Thank you so much for all your hard work and generosity of spirit. Have a very merry Christmas and a very happy New Year.
Oh, I hope you will choose this one.
My local embroidery guild was looking for a member to stitch a small sample of blue-and-white work. When I asked what that was, they said, that, oh, it is just embroidery using various shades of blue on a white field. I knew there had to be more to it than that…and wow! It turns out that this crewel technique was brought from England with some of the first colonists who used blue wool because they had the indigo to dye it various shades, and used white linen because they could create it themselves. They also stuck to Jacobean motifs/patterns which they had brought with them.
I’ve been to the EGA site and downloaded a pattern, but am not getting much further. I’ve never done crewel work before, never worked with wool before, and have a limited experience stitching on linen. I don’t even know how to choose the right kind of linen.
I’m hoping that you can provide a step-by-step guide to blue-and-whte embroidery, or just to crewel embroidery which I could then adapt to my project. Thank you so much for offering your expertise.
How about all the above?! I love to see everything you are doing and teaching and wish I could follow along with everything. I am very interested in needle painting.
I am working on a little silk crazy patch beaded stocking ornament,( pattern and instructions from Country Bumpking, Inspirations,) and I have found I love beading, but have no real idea how it is supposed to be done. would love information on that! My favorite stitch is always the one I’m doing. I love what you do and am thrilled to find your name in my inbox! have a wonderful Christmas. God Bless.
Just found your site today. I love embroidery. I have been searching for instructions for monograms. How to do it step by step, with the needle size, fabric suggestions and patterns. I haven’t found any patterns that I can actually use. I look forward to getting into your blog and learning!
hi Mary
i like embroidery projects develop step-by-step
whitework
thank you for your service 🙂
Barbara
Hi Mary, what I really value about your blog is following projects step by step, and the fact you of us in to the ups and downs, quandaries and dilemmas. Nowhere else in the blogosphere does needlework get such a humane and realistic treatment.
As for requests… I do love the weird and wonderful things that crop up on here as light relief. So today when a friend sent me this link about temari spheres I immediately thought of you. Aren’t they fantastic?
It’s hard to say what I would like more of, because I really enjoy the variety you present us every day!
I have your book “Lavender Honey”, and would love to see more in that style – small (or smallish) projects that teach a type of stitching, along with instructions for finishing. I don’t do much surface stitching, but I’m really hoping to try a couple of those projects this winter and I’ve already used at least one of the finishing techniques on a different project.
I’d love to see more on counted thread techniques, cutwork, whitework, and pulled or drawn thread techniques. Though I’m hoping to learn more about goldwork & stumpwork this year too!
I truly appreciate your book reviews – they are so thorough that it makes it easy to know if a book would be useful to me. I also thoroughly enjoy following along as you work through a project. It’s nice to see why you make the decisions you make – and it helps me see things in my own work I wouldn’t have noticed before.
Whatever you decide to cover in your column next year, I look forward to reading it every morning!
Mary in MN
Hi. I found your blog very recently, I was looking on information about beading with a tambour hook. I’ve since been reading you every day and undertook some embroidery for the first time in 20 years just the other day ( I started small, just sewed “I love you” in split stitch on a present for my mum). I really like that I wrote it, then sewed it, so it was in my handwriting. I never would have considered it before the blog. I intend to sew your holly motif on a homemade napkin before the end of Christmas (but not before the rest of my Christmas presents are finished). I like information about beading on fabric the most, but I adore watching your projects progress. I think the range of what you cover is great and opens me up to new ideas that it would never occur to me that I want to know.
I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy reading your posts each day. It is really a highlight to my day. Happy New Year!
Merry Christmas Mary! I enjoy the mix of all of the styles and types especially the different ways to use the threads that are not as common as 6 strand floss and wool yarns to be able to develop my own stitch library. Discovering new sources of stitching kits and tools has also been quite helpful. I have begun collecting antique tools and would enjoy hearing more about laying tools and how to use them. Many people don’t know what they are when I’ve asked.
My dream is to continue to offer lessons in sewing, quilting and stitching and have enough time to practice and finish my custom orders and still return to crewel or silk surface embroidery. I continue to work with beginners as they learn canvas work and counted cross stitch. While I would enjoy seeing some examples of crazy quilt stitches and how stitches can be used to embellish a quilt incorporating beads, ribbons and hand applique. I am fascinated by thread painting and want to develop better skills in this area. I know that I will also be sewing a pastoral stole for a friend in January, so even though you can’t do it all, I appreciate your willingness to try. I know with the many people that read and write replies, you will try to give us a diversity of things to do and share. That is all that I can dream of for the coming year, I’ll keep you posted how it goes. I did finally finish the quilt created from the antique embroidered kitchen towels. I now have a new quilt to make out of hand embroidered antique table runners. As I daydream about what is to come, I realize it will be another busy stitching year. I guess I better get busy! Debbie
One last request. I was asked at the fabric store if I knew of a chart that could calculate the difference in size if someone switched from one size of canvas to another, such as from 18 ct. aida to 36 ct. linen or to Hardanger cloth or Monk’s cloth if they wanted to convert their patterns. Does such a thing exist? If it does, I would like to know how to find it and skip the math. Thanks again for all you do. Debbie
I also love receiving your daily blog and your beautiful creations.
I would like some cut work and pulled work patterns, and info on new tools and accessories.
Have a Merry Christmas
I have enjoyed your blog for over 2 years and your how to stitch videos have been my favorites that I come back to often. I would like to learn chicken scratch and continue with my crazy qsuilt embroidery next year. I love most of everthing you do. I don’t care for goldwork personally but feel I learn something from those posts too. Thanks for the great job you do with this blog!
As I read your suggestions I just kept saying “YES” for every one! And how about a monthly post (I wanted to suggest more frequently, but this would work) geared toward the beginner. What do I need in my tool box as a beginner? What should I master first and build on to advance my skills? What do you wish you had known as a beginner needle artist?
Thanks for the opportunity to provide input on your blog content for 2014. I look forward to reading every word.
Merry Christmas!
I would like. Crewel embroidery project. I work with a lot of 18 th century techniques.
I really enjoy your book reviews. I really love having the video tutorials to refer back to. I love when you give us projects to follow along with. It keeps me motivated.
Looking forwar to 2014!
Mary
I cannot imagine your blog being any better than it is. You share with us such a wide variety of stitching stuff. I don’t know how you have any time for stitching with you every day sending out such a wonderful blog. I am thrilled every day when I get your email in my in-box. I quickly go through my emails saving yours for last so tbat I have time to read and dream about doing a fraction of your quality of work and quanity.I very much love the variety because I am learning a lot from you even if I don’t try a particular type of stitching, because of all the clarity you provide and there is so much cross-over in the many different types of embroidery.
Thank you so much for sharing yourself and you stitching. You are a marvelous teacher.
— Mary
I already enjoy the categories that you have established and that continue to grow.
You have said in the past that Japanese embroidery is “cold” and not appealing to you. It is what I spend multiple hours per day doing and I suggest that it might be worth your consideration. Just a thought.
My ability to send photos, etc., via e-mail is
non existent. If you can deal with snail-mail
or phone, then I can share a huge, indescribably beautiful area of silk/metallic embroidery.
Thank you,
Nancy Sutherland
Hi Mary
Your site is a Super Star , everything is Perfect but i have some suggestions.
1-how to incorporate many techniques in one embroidery , how to plan and know when to do this and use that .
2-more about techniques not discussed much and/or have little books about like drawn thread ,cut work,beaded tatting.
3-different ways of doing the same technique and the cons and pros of each.
4-kinds of embroidery from different parts of the world.
5-your video tutorials on DVD and eBooks of your stitches and stitch fun series .
6-how to use paint and other things that enhance the embroidery project.
Happy Stitching!
I am a visual learner so the videos are gold for me. If I were to wish it would be for videos on how to hemstitch and hand sew edges so that the edges lay square not mitered.
Another technique that I would enjoy a video of if is the trailing technique as seen in Monograms by S. O’Connor on p. 56
Book reviews are helpful but when they are out of print I want them even more.
Had it not been mentioned on NnT I would never have heard of the Wemyss School. Please continue to let us know about these gems.
Have you considered demonstrating more complex stitches as found in Elizabethan work?
Thank you Mary, you are our gem
What a generous offer, Mary. My personal wish would be to have you here so I can ask you questions as I go. Failing that, and I have no doubt at all that you would want to swap the cool climate of Kansas for the heat of Australia, just keep doing what you have been doing. The surprise every day of something different is great, all your work is fabulous and even on the odd occasion when either the technique or the subject matter isn’t to my taste, what you have to say and the way you say it is delightful.
Viva Mary.
I love your step-by-step tuts as well as the videos for embroidery stitches. I’ve just gotten back into hand embroidery and lots of time I go to your site to remind myself of a stitch or to learn a new one. Thanks – that’s great!
I agree with everyone else that your site is phenomenal as is!
The embroidery-related things that I am interested in are:
Goldwork
Thread painting
Cutwork
Crewel
Hemstitching (as it applies to table linens)
Bead embroidery combined with other techniques (especially goldwork)
Looking forward to many, many more years of Needle ‘n Thread adventures!
two words: ribbon embroidery
Love all your articles am very new to embroidery so enjoy your tutorials especially video ones but your step by step clear ones are brilliant easy to understand . Hardanger would be nice to see especially the more complicated festooned ones . Sometimes instructions in books tend to be for more brilliant minds than mine need to see things more tHan once and understand it finally I get it. All n all love every thing u
You do many thanks
I generally love all your blog posts…even if it is a technique I don`t do, I find it fascinating to watch you demonstrate new things because, you never know, I may want to do that some day!
I particularly love your Mission Rose design, and would love to see more of it and projects like that in future…I adore Tudor roses, and though I don`t do goldwork or embroidery at that level, I can stitch it vicariously through you.
I also love your posts on threads, being a thread fondler myself. I would like to see more brands of silk demonstrated and info on the differences between them. I like to stitch 17th century reproduction samplers and am always up for trying new threads!
Merry Christmas Mary..
mj
Bless you Mary, the world loves you and your passion for & willingness to share all things embroidery. I’d love to see detail about hardanger and cut out work — drawn thread work.
Tools for embroidery is also a helpful thing.
I trust you enjoy Christmas and that 2014 is a happy & productive year for you and yours. Jen
Have just remembered that (don’t know the correct name of stitching) I’d love to know the correct way for couching 2 threads of gold thread laid together with silk thread. The measuring of thread & turning sharp corners. Thanks for your thoughtfulness and help. I trust you receive much joy in doing and giving in the way you do.
Jen.
Mary there are too many ideas, but first-I love the stitch tutorials, I just wish you would put them in DVD form, stitching next to the computer is not easy. I would love to see drawn thread tutorials. As to e-books, I really prefer soft cover how-to-books,skipping around is not easy for me on e-books.
I am new to your site, but I have been embroidering for 40+ years, I really love your daily e-mails, and am interested in learning different types of embroidery.
I have used you book recommendations when buying new books, and I have been very satisfied.
Thank you for keeping the art alive.
What is my needle work wish? First, I want to stitch more days than I don’t stitch in 2014. Specific goal – to stitch for 30 minutes or longer 183 days. Next I want to try a few new things and to better master the stitches and techniques I already know. Specific goal – Increase my skill inventory and mastery by completing more projects already owned than projects purchased in 2014. Then I really want to try to step out and try my hand at designing. Specific goal – Design, stitch, document, and share at least 3 designs.
How will Needle ‘n Thread help me accomplish this? This blog is a wonderful source of information. The daily info is always interesting and thought provoking. I have mined it when looking for info on specific subjects. It is like a daily mini-lesson (or sometimes a maxi-lesson) on all things needle art related. While I understand the desire to make changes, from my catbird seat, no changes are needed. Having said this, I am sure that whatever changes you decide to make, it wil bring even more depth to your column.
Thank you Mary!
Mary,
I love all that ou do. I have learned so much about different techniques from all of the methods that you use. Some I will never use, but I love learning about them. I particularly like your ebooks. It is great to follow along on the projects that you are working on. Books, threads and accessories are wonderful to learn about. Everyday if I can only read one email, it is yours.
I am looking forward to more info on the monogram project that you started awhile ago. I would like to learn more so I can make presents for friends and family.
I love all the links to other sites.
Keep doing what you are doing. It’s all wonderful!
Hi Mary,
I would love to know/learn more about stump work. I’ve seen some beautiful examples but have never quite ‘got it’. If you have the time a review, lesson or “where do I start” would be great.
Thank you for 2013 it has been inspiring, have a wonderful Christmas & New Years.
Just one addition to Needlenthread: are there “rules” to guide which weight (thickness) of linen and count is best to display different embroidery techniques? This would be a great help.
My one wish is: I have a large and very old fine linen piece that has aged to a light brown but someone has drawn a lovely design with pencil on it. I’d love to complete the pattern but feel I should hand wash the linen first, which would wash out the pencil. I would love to hear your ideas on how I can do this best – and perhaps how to wash old (yet tough) linen.
I think your website is a great blend of everything embroidery. Just pace yourself as we couldn’t do without “our” Mary in the morning.
Wishing you Christmas Blessings and a Very Happy New Year.
Love step by step projects as I am not very experienced. I would also like info. on tools and what fabrics you can suggest. I don’t want to purchase expensive fabrics but would like to think that if my attempts were successful they were worth keeping. Thank you
hi marry i love each & every post of needle n thread ,specially stitch fun series . I want more how to do video and some more new stitches from old one .I Mean how we can give new look to old stitches . kind of .varriations. some pattern and how we should choose stitches for any design.
an online class and a reunion of NP2! Merry Christmas Mary.
Dear Mary
I enjoy your emails everyday and read them first thing every morning. The step by step instructions are so handy. I am continually amazed by the amount of stitching you do. Your time management is wonderful. I wish I could stitch faster!
Thank you for the time and energy you give to sharing with so many needle workers world wide.
Merry Christmas and a wonderful, fulfilling 2014.
Jude E
I would love to see more needlepainting, like maybe a big project on needlelpainting? And also, I love the posts where you write in depth about very practical things, like how to prepare linen or how to finish your work or how to dress a slate frame. I also love everything that has to do with threads, fabrics and books.
..Actually, I think I love everything you write! 😀 My wish is that you will write many, many more things in the future about anything and everything needlework related!
Hi Mary,
I would be interested on having an article on how you organize your year in regard to projects you want to accomplish. I would love to be able to better organize my stitching year to accomplish the pieces I want to create.
Barbara in Texas
Needlework Techniques? Colbert Embroidery, Assisi Work
Do you like watching embroidery projects develop step-by-step? Yes!!
Do you want e-books that instruct on a variety of embroidery tips? E-books that cover one particular project completely. – Yes!
On all items – yes!)))
Thank you!
Good morning Mary
I enjoy almost all your bogs and look forward to them every day. There is one subject I could use some education on and that is the different threads there are to use and the effect they have on your needlework .
Please kept up your blog and education
Carol
Hi Mary, I just wanted you to know that I really enjoy your blog. I have enjoyed your tambour stitching lessons and am becoming better and better at it. I like techniques and learning new things. I would like more articles on different types of embroidery, for example, what is Glazig style embroidery – and how do they get their satin stitches so smooth? I am always looking for new challenges in embroidery. You are doing a great job! Thanks, Regina
Mary, my wish is for accessories and tools. They seem to be my nemesis. I like to see everything new. Im not opposed to seeing new books either. My truest wish for 2014 is learning how to do cutwork/whitework. I’m sure I will see all orost of these items throughout the next year. I will be anxiously watching. 🙂 )
I love your blog and enjoy receiving your newsletter daily. The picture tutorials are my favorite, and I enjoy seeing, step by step, what you are working on. I also enjoy the different places you visit and the embroidery you find there. I love the free patterns, and you have opened my eyes to a whole new world of thread! I especially like the Scandinavian pieces and the flowers you do, I would really like to see some pansies or violets because I love to work with purples. The shisha mirror tutorial was fabulous, too! Thanks so much and please continue your beautiful work.
Youre so sweet for asking us!
First and foremost: keep it varied!! We all love the variety.
1) history of various types of embroidery
2) more video tutorials of stitches – some need to be updated btw
3) more tambour needlepaint and goldwo4k – many people love it
4) other types of embroidery… even a simple hey this asiahlalala embroidery
5) more patterns! : ) we love your ideas
6) articles on certain techniques like how to use brown floss to hoghlight other colors, what stitches are good to convey lizatd skin, lambs wool, fur etc.
7) history!!!!!!!
8) a sew along project two
9);keep the sticht fun series going!
Oh and keep the ebooks coming!!! You have a wealth of knowledge – please share
I just read all comments and agree with everyone.If it`s not broke, don`t fix it. This site is the best. For myself I would like to learn some hardanger, whitework, cutwork, pulled thread, Schwalm, Mountmellick and the fabrics that are used. Thank you for the past 18 months of stitching.
Hi Mary, I would like to learn new forms of embroidery, especially drawn work, and cutwork. If you could teach by choosing a project,then be very explicit about what materials were needed,maybe even have a kit to purchase for those of us who wanted to follow along. Really pretty much what you are doing! (smile)
I love book reviews, and comparisons. Also new tools etc. Your video tutorials are great. As a newbie to embroidery,designs are nice, but guidance in what stitch goes where, what thread to use, what fabric to use, etc. is important too. You are doing so much good work now, it seems churlish to ask for more!! I love your blog !! Merry Christmas……Karen
Hi Mary, I am not sure what I would want to see more of, I feel spoiled with every emailed newsletter I read.
However, I do have a needlwork wish, well two actually. One is to finish my Certificate in Counted Thread and the other is to visit the RSN and take a class on, well ANYTHING!!
Wishing you and my fellow readers a Merry Christmas and a Safe & Happy New Year.
Regards,
Marian (Dunedin, NZ)
dear mary-
first of all it is highly time to thank you once again for your extraordinary blog. I don’t know another which is so informative, so nice to look at and so lovely to read. I enjoy it every day, and I’m a great fan of everything you write, show,explain or teach here.As I like embroidery very much and if I had more time, I would do this far more than it is now possible for me although I’m working with textiles and often search for possibilites to add embroidery to the things I’m sewing… so my wish for the blog-future would be, to go on with all your proposals, if this is not too much for you, keep on writing and showing us the fascinating world of all the different embroidery techniques and arts, and also share the projects you are working on yourself- it’s so gorgeous, what you are doing! I wish you peaceful holydays with much time for embroidery:-)…of course! and an energetic start into an exciting new year full of threads and patterns and ideas… many cheers from Switzerland
Martina
Dear Mary:
The bad news is I can’t help you with what to put on Needle’n’Thread. The good news is that it is because I love your website! It is one of two sites that I read religiously. Even if one of the posts is not something I would stitch, I read it anyway and I always learn something that adds to my body of knowledge. I have a difficult time waking up in the morning, so I read your post before I get out of bed. It wakes up my brain and gets the creative juices flowing, not to mention putting a smile on my face. Keep up the good work–no pressure,
Jan Box
Hi Mary
Good for you going out to the needlework community to find out what we want, need, etc.
What do I want?
Time to stitch. Our lives do not really allow for this. How did our ancestors do it?
My goal for 2014 is to become very proficient at needlepainting. I have the books, your sampler underway (think I will start over on this one). Am working on a course from Tanja Berlin right now and I do have several of her kits. The 2014 goal includes finishing these.
I like your blog as it is.
Could you do some knots instruction? French, Colonial, Coral knot, there are lots out there.
I am new to your blog- you may already have done these.
Keep up the good work!
Sharon
Dear Mary,
I appreciate your web site so very much. You have provided countless hours of knowledge, camaraderie, and entertainment. I dabble in cross stitch but consider myself a connoisseur of all. I am interested in everyone of your bloggings my favorite are the articles that involve other countries. the historical and current needlework topics of the countries. I loved the artical on the lady from Italy Anna Castagnetti. The things that might be interesting in the comming year for you to cover might include
1.Foreign needlework (maybe we could live vicariously thru you).
2.A gallery on this site for others to show off their current projects
3. A listing of LNS no matter how small
4. More more more of the same just can’t get enough.
Oh I concur with everyone else what I need for Christmas is the Time to do it all.
For suggestions as a fairly new member of the newsletter list sometimes a re-cap of what is available on your web site. e.g. I hadn’t realised you have embroidery e-books must go and take a look. I mostly read the newsletter whilst answering emails so do not read it on line unless searching for a particular bit of information.
More on design would be good. not just on how to design a project but how to interpret stitches to suit various bits of design. eg at present I am doing a crewel work tree of life – bits taken from various English hangings. The design is fine its deciding what stitches would look best in each bit that is the problem!
Finally do not stop – there does not appear to be a similar newsletter anywhere on the web and as I said before you have kept me sane during the past embroidery-less months. Keep up the good work. Pat from UK
I bought a book called “Kyuuto! Japanese Crafts: Woolly Embroidery” because of a beautiful sheep motif in it. It had a loopy fleece!
Once I had the book I found it was done using “Schlingen Stitch” and thread not available in the UK. I found it impossible to master and wonder if you had come across it? I would love a tutorial on how to do it!
P.S. I added the picture so you can see the sheep motif here –
Mary,
I can find nothing lacking in your newsletters. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”
I noticed a comment on what to do with the work we have after we run out of wall space for framed projects. Does anyone have a suggestion?
I would like to see more info on the fabric. The linens you mention are not available to me. If you could give a thread count it would be helpful.
Merry Christmas to one and all
Nelda Wagner
Hello Mary,
First I want to thank you for the wonderful website. I follow it daily and so enjoy your projects, hints, book reviews and everything else.
I love white work. Perhaps you would do a Schwalm or Carrickmacross project? Would you consider a needlelace project? I am passionate about lace and perhaps other readers would enjoy it as well. I have a couple of books on it, but it would be very helpful to have a tutorial with step by step directions. I have tried to find a class on it,but to no avail.
Wishing you a very beautiful and peaceful Christmas,
Annette
I’ve been reading your blog for a couple of years now and I love seeing your posts arrive in my reader. I like the whole mix of topics for articles. Ongoing projects like the current Tudor Rose are great as you show us hints and tips along the way, I like your articles on gadgets and tools and reviews of needlework books (though preferably in print for me).
I’d like to see a look at more styles and techniques of embroidery, I love to experiment and have tried hardanger, blackwork, bead embroidery, chicken scratch, needlepoint, cross stitch, surface embroidery and crewel. I have a goldwork kit lined up for next year too!
I made a list of all the needlework techniques/styles I could think of. Clearly it needs more work and I need to actually try most of them, but it might give you some ideas?
scroll down past all the knitting and crochet and you’ll get to needlework.
First of all Mary, I would like to thank you for all that you do towards bringing the really wonderful things you do to us everyday embroiders. Since finding your website about two years ago I have not missed one single blog. I even have a special folder where I keep all of your projects and tutorials, advice and so many other things.
The only thing that I would like to see more of are tutorials. Step by step tutorials. Even though embroidering is probably one of my most favorite things to do…I am not an expert by any means. With your help and maybe more tutorials I could become as good as you. However, I don’t see that happening any time soon. Ha ha
Please don’t ever discontinue your website. It is a source of many a woman’s and men’s enjoyment. Keep up the good work.
I love your techniques and tutorials. There have been several times I have gone to one of your tutorials when I just couldn’t get my head around the written instructions for a stitch. I also like your patterns and projects. Book reviews are great; I trust yours more than I do the magazines who were given a book to review. Those are the things that would keep me happy next year. I like looking at your ecclesiastical projects, too.
I wanted to thank you Mary for the review of Margaret Lee’s book on Chinese Embroidery. I bought it and apart from its being a beautiful book in its own right it’s very clear indeed,. The stitches are very interesting and you could do worse sometime than give a bit of an explanation for people who are interested.
Hi Mary.
I love all your information – tutorials, tools, materials, book reviews, projects – wow. You share so very much. I enjoy seeing your email messages 🙂 In the technique arena I’d like to see cutwork and more of your stitch combination projects. I am hoping the floral monograms will be available as an e-book. I’ll be the first to purchase one.
Merry Christmas to you and your family!
I look forward to your daily newsletter. I enjoy the variety of topics you post and following the steps of your projects.
I would like more stitch videos and Stitch Fun variations.
Tool and book reviews are interesting – even if I can’t afford to purchase.
I know you are addicted to linen, but I would like more information on your experience with other fabrics – especially cotton and silk.
Your thread comparisons and experiments are helpful.
Since you asked – I would like to see video tutorials on drawn thread work, pulled work and Schwalm. I have read the ones you have, most generously, posted already and it made me eager for more! My budget is very limited but I do enjoy the book reviews and the exploration of different tools. May your holidays be full of joy!
Dear Mary, I have recently found your site after reading a somewhat scathing review of an e-book on my Kindle Fire, where the person said that she was able to get all the same information (and then some!) from your site, so buying the book was a waste of money. Of course I immediately looked you up, and I’m now addicted. I’m a very, very new beginner having not done any stitching since school (a loooooong time ago), so for me, everything that’s on your site is perfect. It will take me a long time to get through it all, so that’s my goal for 2014!
Merry Christmas from another Mary in South Australia, the land Down Under. xx
This is somethign very specific. Two years ago, I attended a lecture on women’s clothing. The lecturer had wonderful samples of dress and clothing as far back as 1810, but most was from the Civil War period through the 1930s. One dress in particular was a basic blue cotton dress dated around 1870 – 1880 that had been made to look “Sunday Dressy” by hand stitching white rick-rack down the front bodice, the sleeves and along the hem. The rick-rack was hand-embroidered in such a way as to make the dress look very lacy. I was wondering if you have seen any embroidery such as this, and could find any patterns that might provide a variation on the technique of stitching rick-rack on fabric as to appear like “poor man’s” lace.
I do needlepoint so I would love more articles about that but also about how there seems to be a movement of more “crossover” of needlepointers doing non traditional techniques on canvas, like crewel on canvas or I’m working on a peice where I will be doing gold work on canvas.
I also have a tool called a stitchers pallet and although I am an advanced stitcher, I don’t know what do to with it. Tips and tricks with using tools would be appreciated as well.
And definitely more in gold work and education on using and incorporating Beatle wings. I found your post on that fascinating!
I am relatively new to your website but it is quickly becoming my go to place for inspiration and stitch tutorials.
Thank you for all the information you have provided, I look forward to your posts!
Dear Mary,
Here are my responses to your questions from 17 December. Thank you very much for asking them and allowing everyone to have an input to next year’s topics. I am a very satisfied reader of your site and would be quite happy if it carried on as it is even though some topics are of more interest to me than others.
I copied the questions from the page. My response is lengthy as I have answered most of your questions. This may be more detail than you wanted. Please feel free to skim or skip it if you like. I’ve spaced out multiple questions in one sentence. I think this makes the answers easier to read.
What do you need? What do you want?
Instruction on techniques and stitches.
What’s your needlework wish?
Tutorials, Techniques, or Tools? Oh My!
Ok, there’s more to it than that!
Is there a particular category that you really, really love?
Crewel embroidery, especially Jacobean.
Do you like step-by-step tutorials?
Yes, one of the best points of the site.
Do you like to know what’s out there in the way of tools that can make our embroidering lives easier?
Yes.
Do you need help with how to use a particular tool?
Yes, particularly if it is one that is new to me.
Would you like to see tool reviews or comparisons between different tools, to help guide your own purchasing decisions?
Yes, the comparisons are most useful. It allows one to weigh up advantages between tools. You reviewed the Millenium frame very positively but I note that you do not use it. I have considered buying it – it seems to have no disadvantages other than possibly cost – but am finding harder to justify. Are Evertite frames therefore the best?
By tools, I mean any tool that is used at the embroiderer’s workstation – from hoops and frames to needles to scissors to stands, lighting, magnifiers, and miscellaneous gadgets.
Are you a lover of needlework accessories?
I like looking at them and would like them as gifts. I don’t usually feel that I can justify the expense.
Do you want to see more mention of accessories,
yes
how to use them,
yes,
how to make them,
definitely – then I can justify the expense
or where to find them?
yes, particularly if there are UK locations and failing that, European ones.
Needlework Book Reviews?
At the moment, I am more likely to think about purchasing a book as a result of your review than the other way around. I find the reviews invaluable as a means of finding out what is out there and I know you would not bother to review a book unless it is very good or needs to be reviewed as a precaution because it is very bad.
Would you like to see more reviews of older books – even out of print books?
Definitely – and AbeBooks (abebook.co.uk) is my friend. The site lists book suppliers worldwide.
What about book comparisons? Would you like to know which books will help you most, in specific needlework tasks?
Definitely. Often I want to compare books in order to decide what to buy and to prioritise. Sometimes I want books covering different aspects of a subject that cannot be adequately covered in one book.
What about needlework techniques?
Are you keen to learn a new technique, but don’t know where to start?
At the moment I am finding out about techniques that I may not have known existed so I’m not quite ready to learn.
Would you like to see more information on specific techniques, and how to get started in learning them?
Do you like needlework video tutorials and would you like to see more of them?
Yes and yes.
What about particular stitches? Do you have any particular stitch that daunts you, that you need to see worked out?
Still learning – you’ve introduced me to masses of stitches. I am only beginning to practice them.
Do you like watching embroidery projects develop step-by-step?
Yes.
Is there any type of project that you would like to see develop step-by-step on Needle ‘n Thread in 2014?.
I’d like to see more crewel projects.
Are there any specific types of hand embroidery patterns you’d like to see?
I like the mixture that you’ve presented.
Do you pine for specific styles of hand embroidery patterns?
Pennsylvania Dutch and Jacobean ones.
Do you want to see patterns that can be adapted to specific types of finished projects?
Corner patterns?
Yes.
Individual embroidery designs?
Yes.
Repeatable motifs?
Yes.
Embroidery patterns for simple projects?
Yes.
Complex projects?
Depends. This might be more a matter of reading rather than doing.
Embroidery patterns for children’s projects?
No.
Monogram patterns?
Yes.
Do you like embroidery e-books and would you benefit from having more e-books available?
I like being able to read them on-line and to search them but one cannot make notes on them, carry them about and so forth. Generally I prefer books. Again, cost is a factor.
Do you want e-books that instruct on a variety of embroidery tips?
Yes.
E-books designed for the beginner?
Yes, if they are clearly designated as for the beginner. For example, I would want this sort if it is a new technique for me. Otherwise I may already have the knowledge.
E-books that cover one particular project completely?
Yes, because I can decide if I am interested in that project.
Or e-books that make a multitude of projects do-able for you?
No, because I generally find that I am only interested in some of the projects.
Hi, Helen –
Thanks for your detailed answer! I edited out the longer headlines / questions from the article, leaving the bare bones of the questions, so that it didn’t take up quite as much space.
Concerning the Millenium frame, you noted that I do not use it. I just want to clarify that point: I use it practically every day! I also use it whenever I make stitch videos. I have two Millenium frames set up in my workroom right now. I haven’t changed my mind about it – I find it the handiest frame for larger projects and medium sized projects. I’m not using it with the Mission Rose, because the MR is a small project, as far as size goes, and both of the Millenium frames are too large for it. -MC
Merry Christmas Mary.
I am very interested in Stumpwork and especially the style and methods used to make the sewing caskets. I would love to see info on how to line the box and apply the panels. The book covers from that era are also very interesting.
I enjoy mixing beading, need lace, and embroidery-the results are sparkly and much more exciting.
Thanks for all you do for us…I look forward to coffee with you every morning!
Sue (from Wyoming )
Mary, I love everything you do and so appreciate your talent, generosity and your fantastic writing style.
The work I do falls into the counted embroidery work. I do cross stitch, hardanger, counted thread work, blackwork etc
I would love to see more of this in an advanced technique, for example developing your own back work design based on a picture. I saw a designer work in an elephant and it’d is gorgeous. The way she ‘knows’ where to deepen the pattern and lighten it is great and makes it look very realistic.
I would also enjoy learning more about swalm embroidery, Richelieu cut work, stump work, beginner gold work etc.
It would be great if we knew ahead of time what you want to stitch, so we can get the materials and be ready to start with you, similar to the Hungarian sampler.
I love all the things you do and visit your blog every day to keep up w th your detailed work. I have all your ebooks except the medallion project and am looking forward to the initials. Your easy way of explaining things, mistakes and all, have me convinced that I could learn to complete embroidery, with long and short stitch. I had most of the things ready for your Jacobean jumble, but didn’t actually start it. Maybe with your next one I will have enough confidence to work it with you. I support the stitch along suggestions made by others.
Have a merry holidays season and a fantastic new year, mary.
The series of posts that sticks most in my mind from last years’ is the dissection of the ecclesiastical embroidery. That was such a rare, and educational opportunity.
Gold and silk work 4eva!
Thank you Mary,
Asking me what I want when it comes to stitching. Wow. I have so appreciated your sight for small inspirations as well as the number of little projects that are so convenient to print off and stack up and dream on. I am currently on an executive board serving as VP and haven’t had a great deal of extra or spare stitching time. So since you can’t give me time. Please continue what you have been doing I am so inspired for the projects to come most likely for me in 2015-2016. The only thing I have trouble with is some of the more complex things you present that I can’t enjoy exploring RIGHT NOW! Y ou have shown me that it is okay to carry around a small piece, keep a big piece under wraps as welll as the art of sharing your stitching in your community, church and family . So for me you’ve had a great blend of old and new large and bold small and intriicate as well as cherishing the old patterns or books as well as the newest stuff out there. I don’t happen to reside in a place where there is easy access to materials for stitching so good sites for getting materials would be the only other thing I would suggest there be more of in the near future,but then I would probably have even more projects stacked up `Hmmmm that could be a problem. Thanks again for all the great things you’ve been sharing and Best Wishes for a great New stitched in year!
I cannot even think of any improvements. Your blog is wonderful and so informative. I love it!
Hi Mary,
Happy New Year! I set this email aside to ponder for awhile. What would I like to see more of in 2014? In short I think my answer is: nothing. I love your blog. It’s the first thing I read in the morning and I look forward to every post.
I’ve learned a lot following the Mission Rose project – it’s probably beyond my skill level at the moment but seeing beautiful embroidery is inspirational. Reading how you make decisions about design and approach, solve problems, and fix “mistakes” has shown me that these things don’t just happen – it’s a process.
I like the book and equipment reviews. Again, as a relative beginner it opens my eyes to what’s available and allows me to expand my skill set.
And then the stitch fun series is another area that I enjoy. I haven’t stitched along with you on these but I know it’s there for future use.
There have been a number of times when I go back and look through previous posts to research a book or tool purchase or answer some question.
Basically I think you’re wonderful and I’m a big fan. I look forward to another year of inspiring posts.
Best regards,
Jacquelyn
Mary, I know I’m really late in asking for anything but I’m a raw beginner. I’d like as many tutorials in any format you feel like doing.
Thanks!
Ahh, Mary, you covered so much in all these years, we better revise it all before asking for more. You’re such a reasonable and trustworthy captain, every time taking us with you on inspiring journey… we’re lucky to follow wherever you lead… 🙂 Thanks
This is a great site & I’ve learnt a lot from you. The only thing I miss is a simple drawing or pic that shows how to turn corners with the stitches presented. I have spent most of today trying to learn this from the net but haven’t managed.
Thank you very much & do keep up the excellent work you are doing 🙂
Wishing you all the best,
Ildiko