February 1, 2012

SIGN UP NOW for the new Santa Club! 

 

These are five separate canvases that you can make into stand-ups, ornaments, small banners, etc.  I saw them finishing at Phoenix Market in January and they are WONDERFUL!  The candy cane stripes around each really set them off. 

You can do this!  Just 5 months, 5 canvases, 5 stitch guides and you can decide if you want threads or not.  At just $43.75 per month for the canvas, this is an AFFORDABLE club.  Threads include Neon Rays, DMC, Kreinik, Fyre Werks, Very Velvet, Splendor, Burmilana, Mandarin Floss, Impressions and other specialty threads in small amounts. 

CALL NOW TO JOIN THE FUN!  Theresa, 810-694-3040. 

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October 2, 2011

OCTOBER HAPPENINGS:      

I promised you a FUN TIME in October which will start TUESDAY, October 4 with an unheard of Buy One Get One Discount on PAINTED CANVAS.   Details follow…be sure to note that the longer you wait to come in…the lower the discount!  Plus if you’ve had your eye on a canvas or two, they might be gone if you wait to long!      

This is a great time to remind you about our Loyal Canvas Customer Key Tag program.  You purchase our key tag for $2 and every time you purchase a regularly priced canvas (in stock OR special order) we punch your tag for the appropriate amount.  When your tag is fully punched, you receive $50 in free merchandise!  It’s like getting 10% off all the time.  Internet/phone customers, we’re happy to keep the key tag on file for you!  PLUS as you’ll notice below, for being a loyal canvas customer, you often get extra benefits!

 

Week 1 – Tuesday, October 4 through Saturday, October 8

Buy any in-stock painted canvas at regular price and get another one at 50% off!  ALSO for this week ONLY your Loyal Canvas Customer Key tag will be punched for the price spent on all your canvases INCLUDING the sale pieces!  You can BUY AS MANY CANVASES AS YOU WANT!   You’ll also receive a little something extra in your bag when you leave! 

What a great time to stock up for:

1. Winter.
2. Gifts for “stitchy” friends for the holidays – who doesn’t love a new painted canvas?
3. Canvases you always wanted but were afraid to buy – at these prices, you can have them!

Week 2 – Tuesday, October 11 through Saturday, October 15

Buy any in stock painted canvas at regular price and get another one at 40% off!  Your key tag will be punched for the regularly priced canvas only.  ALL SCISSOR FOBS ARE 25% OFF THIS WEEK ONLY!

Week 3 – Tuesday, October 18 through Saturday, October 22

Buy any in stock painted canvas at regular price and get another at 30% off.  Your key tag will be punched for the regularly priced canvas only.  ALL MILL HILL BEADS AND DMC FLOSS ARE 15% OFF THIS WEEK ONLY!

Week 4 – Tuesday, October 25 through Saturday, October 29

Buy any in stock painted canvas at regular price and get another at 25% off.  Your key tag will be punched for the regularly priced canvas only.  ALL PERLE COTTON, ALL SIZES ARE 15% OFF THIS WEEK ONLY!

 

Rules and disclaimers on Buy One Get One Painted Canvas Sale:

1. Does not apply to Class Canvases, Sock Club and Creepy Character Club canvases.

2.  Will not apply to Christmas Corvette canvas expected to arrive mid-October.

3.  Sorry!  Previously ordered or held canvases do not apply to this Sale Event. 

4. Highest priced canvas will be rung at regular price for each sale.  You may purchase as many canvases as wanted.

5.  Canvases marked as “sale” will be considered to be regularly priced canvases and can be purchased as such (That means MORE GREAT DEALS for you.)6. Please note:  I’ll make my best attempt to keep painted canvas stock updated on my website but I must remind my internet customers that not all items shown are in stock and there are canvases in stock that are not yet shown. 

7.  When placing an order online DO NOT USE EMAIL PLEASE!  I need you to use the online ordering system via the website.  The website is www.homesteadneedlearts.com and then push the Go Shopping button and use the shopping cart.  That is a secure server.  Regular email is NOT secure.  Orders placed beginning Tuesday, October 4, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time will obtain the sale pricing. 

 

NEW CAR EXPECTED AT HOMESTEAD NEEDLE ARTS

 

You KNOW you’ve always wanted a little red Corvette.  Now you can have the car of your dreams at a price you can afford!  No leases!  No long loan paperwork, worries about licenses or titles – we take the worry out of canvas ownership for you. 

Thanks to Sally H. of Brighton, MI, we were able to obtain an exclusive deal for you!  The new Christmas Corvette is expected to drive into our shop in mid-October!  And just think – YOU can be on the dealer waiting list!  A beautiful red Christmas Corvette will be painted for you - there’s a Christmas tree and gifts included in the back seat of every Corvette!  Options include stitch guide, stretcher bars and threads.  Be the first in your neighborhood with a shiny new Corvette on your stretcher bars!     Just call your local Christmas Corvette dealer, Homestead Needle Arts at 810-694-3040 or 888-694-3040. 

 

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September 14, 2011

Dear Stitchers,

The kids are back in school...what are YOU doing to expand your needlepoint knowledge?

NEW BOOKS

The new Sandy Arthur book is finally here.  It's called Shapes of Needlepoint Series II and I had a chance to look through it last night.  This book features Diamonds, Hearts, Octagons and Stars.  I don't know about you, but sometimes I think stars can be a real pain.  You want them to be fun and perfect but you're tired of your same old tried and true stitches.  This book has some pretty good ideas for stars and  hearts.  I don't stitch a lot of stop signs (octagons) but if I did a lot of designing myself, I can see that this would be a handy reference.  The diamond shapes are great too.  I can see using these as a filler, a border, or even in some larger painted areas.  Like her last book, these are indexed both as shapes and by the size of the canvas threads they cover.  HANDY!  Spiral bound (in purple so as not to be mixed up with #1 in red), 117 pages with SUPER LARGE graphs, you're sure to want this in your library at $44.95.  I also purchased more copies of Series I, Circles, Squares, Triangles, Rectangles ($34.95) in case you want to get them both together.  Sandy is already working on two more books in this series so make room on that shelf!

Hyla Hurley brings us a GREAT tiny book called My Favorite Stitches, Quick Reference Guide for Needlepoint Stitches.  At 7 x 4-1/4" this is a definitely "easy to tuck" into your stitching bag kind of book.  Hyla covers left and right handed Continental stitch, right and left hand Basketweave, Double Basketweave, Slanted Gobelin, Encroaching Gobelin, Vertical Brick, Horizontal Brick, Parisian Embroidery, Hungarian Embroidery, Mosaic, Diagonal Mosaic, Scotch and two variations, Cashmere, Diagonal Cashmere, Milanese, Byzantine, Jacquard, Diagonal Scotch, Knitting, Long-Armed Cross, French Knot, Dotted Swiss, Hyla's Turkey, Everybody' Else's Turkey, Fern, Lattice Jacquard, Darmstadt and Satin.  This book spiral bound with large easy to see graphs and retails for just $12.  Don't forget our new Homestead Needle Arts Quick Stitch Reference Guide at just $15 that I told you about in our last newsletter.  Check our website forthese new offerings!

                                          

Our classes this Fall include new offerings and some favorites.  Many of you have requested a simple Beginners Needlepoint Class for younger people and  interested friends or family.  I've created a simple four square pattern done on blank canvas that can easily be put into an acrylic coaster or a boxtop.  You can also take just one of the patterns and put it into a Sudberry mini box OR make into a tiny ornament using one of our finishing forms! 

CLASSES

How do you sign up? Call me at 694-3040 or come in. You must pay the teaching fee at sign-up. Bring basic stitching supplies to all classes – embroidery scissors, needles, magnifier and light if needed, pencil and paper for notes, laying tool, stretcher bars, tacks, etc.

New Beginner's Class - Patterned Squares

                     

 

This class is PERFECT for the beginner who wants to learn needlepoint because we have some simple finishing ideas in mind for you! The class includes canvas, stretcher bars, threads, How to Needlepoint booklet, needles and instruction. You bring your own embroidery scissors (and pair of sharp scissors with shorter than 4" blades) and get ready to learn to needlepoint! 

You'll learn Tent stitch, Scotch stitch, Straight Gobelin, Brick stitch, Slanted Gobelin and the Hungarian Diamond stitch. You'll use Perle Cotton, Silk and Ivory, Watercolors and a metallic ribbon floss. You'll have the instructions necessary to make four different 1-3/4" squares. YOU DECIDE if you want them altogether on your canvas OR if you want them to be separate because when you're finished, you can make them into individual ornaments OR place them in a tiny boxtop OR put them in a larger boxtop or even a 4" acrylic coaster. Don't stress! We'll help you along the way. Needlepoint is meant to be FUN! (Note: Colors shown are not necessarily those you'll use and finishing items mentioned are not included in cost.) PLEASE CALL 810-694-3040 OR VISIT TO SCHEDULE YOUR SEAT IN THE CLASS! 

Dates: Tentatively Scheduled for the Following Dates:

Saturday, October 8, 1:00 - 3:00 

Tuesday, October 11 10:30 - 12:30

Thursday, October 13, 1:00 - 3:00

Thursday, October 27, 1:00 - 3:00

Saturday, November 12, 10:30 - 12:30

Teaching fee: $10

Kit Fee: 38.50 includes canvas, stretcher bars, thread kit, needle threader, How to Needlepoint booklet, needles

 

Happy Yellow Bird (Zecca Canvas)

Taught by Theresa Swiecicki

This so very cute piece teaches you new techniques and introduces you to new threads including DMC Memory and Kreinik holographic thread. The canvas has a happy yellow, orange and black bird talking to a worm while a dragonfly listens and carefree flowers dot the background. You'll learn to lay threads, pad stitches, the wrapped backstitch, ruffle and couch Frosty Rays and other fun techniques. The design area is 6 x 3-1/4" so you'll stitch this quickly. SIGN UP EARLY so we can order your canvas. Student provides or purchases stretcher bars and scissors.

Dates: Saturdays, October 22, 2011, 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. AND November 12, 1:30 to 4:00

LIMITED SEATS AVAILABLE! CALL NOW TO SIGN UP!

Teaching Fee: $40

Kit Fee: 104.25 includes painted canvas, thread kit, stitch guide including color copies.

 

Beaded Heart NEW CLASS

 

Husband off hunting for Bambi? Why not book a little fun for yourself? You're going to love this exciting new way to bead! You'll bead this pretty heart in yellow, peach, pink and red (green heart shown just for size) and learn shading with beads at the same time. Don't be afraid - WE'LL HELP YOU THREAD YOUR NEEDLE! :-) Have fun and make a beautiful beaded heart ornament. Student should bring or purchase 6 x 6 stretcher bars, embroidery scissors, frame weight OR stand. PLEASE NOTE! Bead containers may not be as large as shown! PLEASE SIGN UP BY OCTOBER 21 SO WE CAN HAVE YOUR KIT READY FOR YOU!

Date: Friday, November 18, 2:00 to 4:00

Teaching Fee: $25

Kit Fee: $23 includes painted canvas, 4 containers of beads, beading thread, needle

 

Sampler of Stitches 

    

Taught by Theresa Swiecicki

Dates: Scheduled when two or more people are interested in the class.

Cost: $30 plus supplies ($30 for 4 hours of instruction - two 2 hour classes). Additional help available afterwards.

Kit Fee $78.25 for painted canvas, stretcher bars, threads, needles, stitch guide.

This hand-painted sampler eases you into doing painted canvas. Areas are painted in stitch types and you just follow the stitch guide and canvas. You can fill the center with your initial, a baby's birth information or even wedding initials - or finish as a frame or a mirror! Students must bring or purchase embroidery scissors. The painted area of this piece measures 5-1/2” square. You'll learn 12 new stitches in your needlepoint journey.

 

Plaid Star Ornament or Tree Topper

Taught by Theresa Swiecicki

Dates: September 24, 2011, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Cost: $20 plus supplies (approximately $60 for blank canvas, threads, stretcher bars)

Continue on your journey into needlepoint with the continental stitch but learn to read a slightly more complicated chart while making a plaid pattern. This plaid star measures approximately 7” x 8” when finished. Ours was stuffed and made into a tree topper with a corded edge. So cute, you must see it! Kits are available for those not wanting to take the class.

Barred Owl by Charley Harper, Stitches by Kathy Fenchel

Taught by Kathy Fenchel

Date:  Saturday, November 19, 2011 from 10:00 to 4:00 p.m. with a short break for lunch on your own.

Fees:  $65 teaching fee plus 15 page printed stitch guide

Kit Fee:  $90 for painted canvas, all threads for owl, branch and moon (background thread not included-see note below), stretcher bars

(Save!  Bring your own stretcher bars!  Size will be available closer to class)

What a beautiful owl!  This wonderful piece is being taught right here at Homestead Needle Arts by the illustrious Kathy Fenchel!  She's talented and it shows in this wonderful interpretation of a Charley Harper canvas.  Your kit will include full skeins of all threads needed to re-create your own owl except for the white background.  Your stitch guide includes two background options each using two different threads.  Of course we'll be happy to supply either set of background threads you desire at class time! 

SIGN UP BY OCTOBER 7 IF POSSIBLE SO WE CAN ORDER YOUR PAINTED CANVAS!

Canvas Embellishment with Kathy Fenchel

Wednesday, November 30, 2011 class has openings so far but hurry!  This class will fill when the October's class is held and the students book their next class.

Cost $75 all day class, $45 half day (10-1 or 2-5)

WE CAN ALSO book her if you have a group of 4 to 6 stitching friends that want to get together for an all day class. Just ask!

For those unfamiliar with her classes, you bring any painted canvas and Kathy will suggest the right stitches and threads to bring your canvas to life. She’s got a fun, unique style and lots of needlepoint fans across the United States! I've taken several classes with Kathy and suggest that you try her class to see if you'll love her ideas like I do!

Drop- In Tuesdays with Theresa

Dates/times: Tuesdays from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Fee: $10 a week, paid at class time.

Project: Work on your current project and get help with anything you need. Meet other needlepointers and relax with friends for 2 hours. If this is your first time, please call otherwise, just drop in! We have fun AND get our projects finished! Here's a sample of something you could get help on!

 

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September 7, 2011

 

Hello Stitchers,

Now that the official end of summer has come and gone, it's TIME TO GET BACK TO YOUR STITCHING!

Some reminders:  Your Christmas deadline of October 1st is fast approaching!  Get those fingers to work and get your projects in here!  I'm so happy that many of you have been finishing your projects early this year!  I expect to have lots fewer last minute finishing rush jobs!  Thank you for that!

For those of you in the Finishing Challenge, don't forget to bring in your registered projects ON OR BEFORE September 15 to be measured for the final count.  Your projects do not have to be completely finished, but you must have done measurable stitching on them! 

THE MINDY TRUNK SHOW - Many of you have asked where you can see these items on line.  All but her latest items are on my very own website!  Just click on the Go Shopping button on www.homesteadneedlearts.com, then go to Painted Canvases, then you'll find the Mindy button.  I am trying to put her latest canvases on my website this week so stay tuned!  Remember, I'm not just the shopkeeper, I'm also the webmaster, order taker, mail person, bill writer and bathroom cleaner!  Sometimes shop life just gets in the way!

NEW IN BOOKS:

YOU'LL NEVER GUESS WHO I MET AT MARKET!  The Queen of Needlepoint Books, Jo Ippolito Christensen!   I thought I died and went to Needlepoint Heaven!  Poor Jo was probably sick of me worshipping her in every room but she DID enjoy hearing that her book is a big seller in my shop.  Odds are pretty good that YOU have her book and refer to it.  You know, the one with the black cover?  Jo tells me that when she wrote it, there weren't needlepoint reference books like we have now.  Can you imagine?  No Stitches to Go, no SuZy's Small Stitches, no Sharon G SENSE...I can't imagine.  All I know is that this is the book I recommend for my beginners because it starts out by telling you EVERYTHING you need to know to get started...and then you can buy as many more stitching books from there as you need! 

                                             See our website at http://www.homesteadneedlearts.com/detail.cfm?ID=92 for this book.

And speaking of stitching reference books Homestead Needle Arts now has a Quick Stitch Reference book for your stitching bag!  Measuring in at a diminutive  5-1/2 x 4", this blue covered book retails for $15 and has 48 stitches graphed in it.  No, I didn't write it but I DID put my approval on it!  List of stitches included will be on our shopping website. 

River Silks Ribbon tells me that their book "  Ooooh, The Essentials of Ribbon Needlepoint with River Silks” is now being translated to Russian!  Let me know if you me to pre-order you a copy! Perhaps you have a Russian needlepointing friend?   As we've long known, needlepoint and beauty is spoken in more than one language.

Ruth Schmuff's book Backgrounds, Volume One is now in the shop!  Weighing in at nearly 4 lbs., keep in mind that we'd be happy to ship any of our books to you via Media Mail.  This book has 481 different repeat patterns suitable for backgrounds or any other area you want a repetitive pattern.  The stitches are sorted on the repeat of the pattern, from one stitch to 40 stitches wide.  This book is also available on CD.  Price of the book is $65.  Price of the CD's are $28 - three are in stock.  My take on this book?  As you leaf through the first few pages, you're going to think, "Hey, I could come up with these, this is no big deal."  But remember, those are the single stitch repeats.  Of course you could do that.  Then there's some stripes, you could do that on your own too.  But when you enter the complicated repeats - 5 threads wide by 10 threads high, or 8 x 8 or the 14 x 10 pattern on page 379 - you'll probably be glad for this book!  481 pages, spiral-bound for easy use, heavy duty covers.  THE FIRST SIX will be sold for $60.   After that, they'll be $65.

                                        

Rainbow Gallery's Petite Silk Lame' Braid hit our shelves last week and are up and gorgeous on the spinner rack!  Each card has twenty yards of beautiful silk combined with metallic just like their current Silk Lame'.  There are currently 26 colors including Black, White, Avocado, Red, Dark Red, Yellow, Purple, Sky Blue, Dark Blue, Navy, Surf Blue, Lavender, Raspberry, Orange, Coffee, Eggshell, Buttercup, Chartreuse, Caribbean, Silver, Crimson, Dark Chocolate, Sand Gold, Pale Pink, Blue Turquoise and Medium Christmas Green.  This weight is perfect for light coverage on your 18 ct. canvas, it's just right on 24 ct. Congress Cloth or use it for topstitch details over other threads on 13/14 count. 

                                      

Did I neglect to tell you that we now carry the full line of Weeks Dye Works Perle #5?  WE DO!  These wonderful colors are hand dyed and easy to do shading work with.  Weeks Perle #5 comes in 144 wonderful colors - basically brights, imaginatives and solids (see pictures).  Be sure to buy enough for your project as this is a hand-dyed thread and dye lots will vary.  Here are some pictures of them from their website.

                                

 

SOME OF THE BALTIMORE MARKET ITEMS I've meant to tell you about include:

Gloriana has four new colors out - Thistle Orange, Thistle Purple, Jersey Shore and Jubie's Pink.   Here they are in the order of Jubie's Pink, Jersey Shore, Thistle Purple (it's a dark purple) and Thistle Orange (kind of rusty).  Remember, we carry the full line of their silk floss and will order any of their other items for you!

Just Another Button Company has started making magnets!  They come 3 to a pack and there are a pack of rose type flowers, a pack of red and white flowers and a bee, a pack with a bee/ladybug/butterfly and a pack with a rose/bird/butterfly.  Fun! 

Of course the company that does the magnets in brass/copper and silver colors, Puffin and Company has cute magnets of a witch, pumpkin with cat, witch hat, smiling kitty, acorn, snowman, angel, and mitten. 

I purchased new charts from Brenda Kocher, Debbee's Designs, and the coolest seasonal trees from Handblessings!  She also has little ort box covers...you'll be able to whip these up for friends and yes, the box comes with it. 

I have FAR TOO MANY CANVASES to list here.  Suffice to say, if it was new, exciting or priced well, I bought it.  When you come in to see the Mindy Trunk Show, be sure to go through the newest canvases we have here too.

That's enough for now, I hope I've got you interested now that Autumn is nearly here.  Don't laugh, I've seen the trees on my road starting to turn red and yellow already and I don't mind a bit!  This is in face, my favorite season.  See you soon!  Theresa

Theresa

Homestead Needle Arts LLC
Grand Blanc, MI

810-694-3040, 888-694-3040

www.homesteadneedlearts.com

email:  shop@homesteadneedlearts.com

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September 1, 2011

 

The Mindy Needlepoint Trunk Show has arrived!  I know I told you September and I've been waiting for word of the dates - but the Trunk Show arrived before the dates did!  For those of you not familiar with Mindy's work, you certainly are familiar with the July/August 2011 issue of Needlepoint Now - that front floral is a Mindy!  If you have your issue you have the stitch guide and we have the painted canvas here with YOUR name on it! 

      

These canvases are stitch-painted!  That means exact painting on the intersections making it easy for you to see where to place your stitches.  If you love Asian canvsaes, detailed canvases, Christmas canvases, whimsical canvases, purse front canvases, Halloween canvases, and canvases you won't see ANYWHERE ELSE, then you MUST visit this Trunk Show.  Here's a sampling of what came in the door...

   This Asian purse in green/blue is one of TEN purses in this trunk show.  You really will want to see the Paris purse too.  No drooling though! 

                                  

Spring Frolic is one of Mindy's latest pieces and the colors certainly DO bring Spring to life. That button accessory just makes it!  FYI, buttons and attachments may be changed at any time...that's the life of the market, nobody is trying to pull a fast one on you. I REALLY love the Early Spring Birds piece.  Small but spectacular!  Lots of these pieces have others that go with them, so be sure to ask if you're looking for a matched set.

  This is Whimsy in Black and Yellow but you can also get it in Purple or Red or Pink!  Totally cool! 

Here's another obviously Asian influenced piece - comes in pink as shown, purples, greens, blues and red/gold.  Pick any to match your decor and enjoy stitching it! 

If you love CHRISTMAS like I do, these trees are the cat's meow...as is the Jester's stocking:

      

Of course there are more trees and more socks - but only so much room in your email box!

Lastly Autumn and Halloween are just around the corner ... how sweet are these?

                                       

Now remember, I'M CLOSED SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 for the Labor Day holiday so....either come in today or Friday or wait until Tuesday, September 6 to come and snap these up! 

Now, I must go HANG THEM UP!  Eek!  For prices, sizes and other questions, just call or email me.  I will see if I can re-list these on my website ASAP so check it on Friday.

Theresa

Homestead Needle Arts LLC

Grand Blanc, MI

810-694-3040, 888-694-3040

www.homesteadneedlearts.com

email:  shop@homesteadneedlearts.com

 

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Hello again...Even though I'm not at work, I'm still checking my emails and have found some new charts you might not want to live without.  Kurdy of Threedles has outdone herself again with her latest called "A Different View".  This is a pattern of four octagons, and six smaller squares.  She also includes charts for six octagons so you can choose the ones you want to stitch.  Feel free to change the arrangment of the octagons, the squares, or just keep it the same!  These pictures are the same chart, done in 3 different colorways.    Kurdy won First Place at Woodlawn for her Cleopatra's Eyes chart and for those of you who've seen it, you know why.  Of course we carry her charts!  I'm ordering "A Different View" so let me know if you want one.  Retails at $40.50.

                   

                           

 

From Nancy's Needle has just created "Cardinal Caper" and "Woodland Star".  Please email me or place a Special Order on my website to let me know if you want either of these.  They won't be online yet but just put it in your comments.  I suspect that the price will be her usual chart price - $12.50.  As always, I'm thrilled to kit any of these charts for you. 

              

Happy stitching!

Theresa

Homestead Needle Arts LLC

Grand Blanc, MI

810-694-3040, 888-694-3040

www.homesteadneedlearts.com

email:  shop@homesteadneedlearts.com

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Dear Stitchers,

We have air conditioning at the shop!  I know this seems like a simple thing but in these hot humid days, I want you to be sure you can stay cool while you browse and plan your projects. 

As the days carry us into August another Cash and Carry Market is scheduled for me!  Because of that,

HOMESTEAD NEEDLE ARTS WILL BE CLOSED SUNDAY AUGUST 7 THROUGH MONDAY AUGUST 15, 2011.

I will re-open for regular business hours on Tuesday, August 16, 2011.  Remember, our website is ALWAYS open to take your order!

Some of the newer items from the June Market I haven't had time to tell you about are as follows:

RAINBOW GALLERY THREADS:

More Shaded Petite and Regular Very Velvet in yummy colors you'll want to use right away.  These shaded ones are so much fun to stitch with that I look for something to use them one...whoever heard of buying a canvas based on the threads first!  You'll want to when you see these colors.  Bubblegum pinks, Desert Sands (beiges - very nice!) Apple Greens, Brite Yellows, Periwinkles and Brite Oranges.  More Silk Lame Braid in both 18 ct and 13 ct.  I'm only listing the 18 ct. here as the 13 ct. are colors we've already seen in the 18 ct. line.  True Gold, Medium Christmas Green, Crimson, Ruby Red, Pl. Antique Blue, Classic Blue, Sand, Honey Bronze, Warm Brown, Olive, Soft Yellow, Wine, Dark Denim, Deep Cobalt, Soft Pink, Medium Raspberry and Dark Violet.  These threads have been SUCH a hit that I'm starting a Silk Lame' Club in September!  Join up and get your collection started of the thread that's perfect for everything!  There's a new Neon Rays in Cornflower Blue and a Rainbow Linen in Butterscotch.  Next we have Neon Rays Plus in Mauve, Wine, Periwinkle and Cornflower Blue and then the most perfect of all - WHITE GLOW IN THE DARK!  I have a sample on the bathroom wall for you to see.  No, I'm not kidding!  Where else can you find a dark spot in a needlepoint shop? 

In mid-August we'll receive all new 26 colors of Petite Silk Lame'.  You're going to use this when you want a light touch of silk and sparkle on your canvas - maybe angel wings, snow on an evergreen, vines on the pumpkin, reins for your sleigh, whitecaps on the ocean - you get the idea.  The really great thing is you can also use it on Congress Cloth!  I'll put it online BEFORE I have a picture so be watching for that item too!

BOOKS

I received a new book published by the Royal School of Needlework for only $21.95.  It's one of their Essential Stitch Guides by Kate Sinton and this one is Stumpwork.  I took a good look through it yesterday and it's got some great background, pictures, explanations and really good instructions.  It reminds me of the A-Z books which takes you step-by-step through the process of creating stitches and specific pieces.  They teach you how to frame up your work, simple design ideas, applique', flat stitches, raised surface stitches, needlelace, metal thread work, padding, slips, wrapping and how to attach found object.  It's a great starter book that should inspire you with enough ideas to get you started.  There were ideas in there that I'd never seen before like instead of just doing a buttonhole round circle "in the air" you'll do it around a dowel, knitting needle or some other round object.  Well that would help!  There is a section on applying stumpwork to canvas, and the non-canvas stumpwork can actually be used for canvas too.  For example, the raised stem band they use to make the snail's body is exactly the same as you would do on canvas and they're doing it on fabric!    This book is 112 pages in a spiral bound, hard back cover. 

                                       

Coming in September - Sandy Arthur's Shapes of Needlepoint Series 2 - please get on the list if you want me to hold a book for you.  I've ordered copies of this book as Series 1 was so popular but I want to make sure I have enough on order.   Call or email NOW. 

 

UPCOMING CLASSES

I'm making a class list SO if there's something you absolutely would LOVE to have as a class and have some like-minded friends, please let me know by phone or email.  For example, there's been additional interest in the David McCaskill bowl of ornaments that has been in the shop - if you're interested in that, let me know.  If you missed out on the heart beading class and are interested in taking a class in that technique and piece, let me know.  If you're just starting needlepoint and want to start with a small piece, I need to know the days/times that are best for you!  I'd like to schedule classes at times that YOU can attend!

Thanks for your continued support! 

Theresa

Homestead Needle Arts LLC

Grand Blanc, MI

810-694-3040, 888-694-3040

www.homesteadneedlearts.com

email:  shop@homesteadneedlearts.com

 

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STARTING IN EARLY SEPTEMBER...

THE CREEPY CHARACTERS CLUB!

Creepy_Characters (click here to see the picture)

There are NINE triangles (I think of them as candy corn) including The Pumpkin, The Devil, Frankenstein, Spider Queen, Mehitabel (witch), Ghost, Drakula, Fraidy Cat and Hooty Owl.  Hooty Owl will be featured on the back cover of the Sept/Oct. 2011 Needlepoint Now magazine!  If you LOVE Halloween, this Club is for you, and you can join in through Homestead Needle Arts.

The stitch guides are written by Robin King.  You've seen her work in my shop with the small colorful Zecca bird I did this year!  Canvases WITH stitch guides are only $78 and thread kits will be figured separately as each Character calls for different items although MANY overlap so you'll save your threads from each kit to be used again!

Sign up NOW because the club starts in September and I need to know if you want to join BEFORE August 15th.  Remember, there are only nine pieces, they are about 4-1/2" so you CAN finish these by next Halloween!

 

Halloween, not your thing?  See below for the Silly, Sassy, Sparkly Sock Club and email me for more information!  Happy stitching!  Theresa

 

Happy Memorial Day Weekend!

 

While we look at this as the kickoff weekend to summer, many of us remember our fallen heroes this weekend.  We often forget the many people who have given their lives for our everyday way of life.  Thank a veteran when you meet one and keep a family that has lost a loved one near to you.

Our summer weather seems to have forgotten us but no matter.  I decided to work this weekend and when I saw the amount of people NOT going up north, I was glad I did!

For the Finishing Challenge, please come in to register if at all possible.  It's much harder than I thought to see your piece online.  Also, remember I'm closed Sundays and Mondays and June 9 and 10.  The 11th will NOT be a good day to register either as I'm still out of town although the shop will be open.  Thanks! 

Next!  Have you seen the Silly, Sassy, Sparkly Sock Club being sponsored by Ruth Schmuff?  I've had several people ask me about it, so here's the picture and the skinny - I mean the info:

                                

 

There are six socks in this club and some include Swarovski crystals.  The socks are about 5 x 5".  The costs for the canvas with stitch guides range from $76 to $84 each.  The cost for full cards of threads for ALL SIX kits is approximately $150.   So each month AVERAGES $125.  I need only three people to participate in the club and it's a go.  If you're interested, please call me as I'll need to get full information from you.  The club starts in September 2011 and I'll need to get the information well before then! 

FOR THOSE OF YOU WONDERING, THE CHARLEY HARPER TRUNK SHOW WILL BE UP AND READY FOR VIEWING ON JUNE 1, 2011 AS PROMISED. 

That's it 'til next time!

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May, 2011

Dear Stitchers,

This newsletter has been in progress for over 6 weeks.  Every time I think it's finished, I remember something else to add.   Go get your reading glasses, a TALL drink of something tasty and let's go to town!

Welcome to our Spring/Summer newsletter.  I've got all kinds of fun stuff in here for you including the upcoming June Trunk Show, New Classes, a Finishing Challenge and other Fun Stuff! 

June Trunk Show - Charley Harper

I'm breathlessly awaiting the Charley Harper Trunk Show due here by June 1st.  This is the first time we've had this trunk show as Treglown Designs finally started marking trunk shows available.  It's a happy time for all the Charley Harper lovers out there!  DO NOT miss this show as we won't have it again for a few years!  Charley Harper's stylized wildlife pieces of animals and other natural life have been extremely popular at the shop. 

This year many of you have told me that you're concentrating on finishing already started projects.  I think that's a GREAT idea.  Who doesn't have projects languishing in bags, closets, drawers and other hidey-holes?  To help you finish your items, I'm setting up a never before heard of -

FINISHING ENCOURAGEMENT CHALLENGE!!!

This isn't your normal challenge or contest.  A normal contest would be how many items you finished stitching.  But that's not fair!   See Dick and Jane stitch.  Stitch, stitch, stitch.  What if Dick finishes 6 teeny tiny ornaments and Jane finishes one stand up but Jane's stand up is four feet tall?  Who's the real winner then?  To make this a FAIR contest, you're going to bring in your unfinished piece(s) as you decide which ones to work on and we're going to measure what needs to be stitched.  That's right, I'm basing this on SQUARE INCHES to be stitched!  You can start a new piece if you want - I'm not here to stop you.  You can finish 15 old ones.  It's your choice.   All needlepoint projects whether painted or counted can be entered.  Enter as many as you want all at once, or one at a time as you get to them.   To enter, only the stitching needs to be completed.  I'm going to define NEEDLEPOINT projects as those that have a canvas base.  I have to draw a line somewhere so that seems like a good place to make it. 

EVERYBODY can participate.  You'll be responsible for quite a bit of this. 

Electronic and internet savvy:  You take a digital picture * of your unfinished piece next to two rulers or measuring tapes - both the length side and the width side.  In an email, please send the following information to shop@homesteadneedlearts.com:

1.  Your name and full mailing address.

2.  Your email and phone number

3.  The name of your piece - something simple like Santa stand up - if you have more than one piece and they are all the same subject like all Santas, please give them different names - like Santa with dog, Santa with wreath, etc.

4.  What you approximate to be the unfinished area - this can be a little tricky to figure out but using your rulers, determine how many square inches are left to stitch on the piece.  A square inch is simply one inch wide by one inch high.   

5.  Email me your note and attach the picture.  YOU MUST USE THE FOLLOWING SUBJECT LINE - FINISHING CONTEST!

6.  REMEMBER to attach the photo to your email.

7.  I will email you back that I received your entry and that I agree with your inches determined.  If you do not receive a return email from me within 2 BUSINESS DAYS, please call me at 810-694-3040 as your email may have entered the world of spam.  I will check my spam box regularly but we need to make sure that I have received your email. 

8.  Get stitching!

9.  Email me your picture of your finished piece.  All stitching promised must be finished.  I credit your "account" with the square inches you projected.  (*If you don't have a digital camera, you can mail the information, but remember you MUST make the deadline with your finished picture too!)

No electronic device usage:  Visit me at the shop - together we'll measure and/or take a picture of your piece.  You bring a piece of paper with the same information as noted above and leave it with me.

This contest starts May 25, 2011 and ends September 15, 2011 at 7:00 p.m.    That gives you time to get your items in for our October 1 Christmas holiday deadline.  What a GREAT way to get your Christmas projects finished this year. 

Prizes:

The top ten people with most square inches stitched receives a Gift Certificate to Homestead Needle Arts for $25.00.  Why so many winners?  Think about it...you're ALL winners because you'll be completing your unfinished projects.  I think you should all win awards so everybody will receive a token gift for active participation. 

CLASSES - see our Classes page on this website for classes listed in the newsletter

FREE Fun Ornament Day to be held Saturday, 8/20/11 - SIGN UP BY AUGUST 6

I'll be hosting a fun way to share and swap threads with other stitchers and get you started on some quick ornaments for holiday gifts at the same time.  You bring:  a variety of threads from your stash that you'd like to use or swap, 2 sets of small stretcher bars such as 4", 5" or 6" if you want them, tacks, needles and scissors.   Bring things like Watercolors, Splendor, Frosty Rays, Very Velvet, Burmilana, Kreinik, floss, wool, etc.   Bring them in any color but remember you're working on ornaments so bring what you like!  You must call or come in to sign up by Saturday, August 6 to register 21 so I know how many to expect!  Must be at least 16 years of age and a stitcher - this is not a class for beginners, please!  SIGN UP CLOSED AT 4:00 P.M. SATURDAY AUGUST 6.

 

Date:  Saturday, 8/20/11 - MUST BE SIGNED UP BY SATURDAY, AUGUST 6.

Time:  10:30 to 12:30 and 1:30 to 3:30 - you may participate in both sessions if you wish

Fee:  FREE!

Limit:  15 students per session

Kit:  Various small pieces of canvas with suggested designs will be provided for free along with stitch ideas and finishing ideas.

NEW BOOKS:

Shapes of Needlepoint by Sandra Arthur - Don't you hate it when you have a circle and you don't know what stitch to use?  How about when you have a 4 x 6 rectangle?  This is the book you want!  Filled with stitches for Circles, Rectangles, Squares and Triangles this is a great reference book.  More books are planned in this series.  $39.95.

Spooky Stitches by June McKnight - a delightful book covering spooky architecture, background, borders, clothing, diagonal patterns, florals, horizontal patterns, sky and novelty stitches, this book shows each charted stitch while the opposite page shows it stitched in color with a suggested thread which is named.  This is a wonderful idea book, sure to find its special spot in your stitching library.  $38.00.

SENSE - Sharon G's Simply Essential Needlepoint Stitch Explanations - SENSE - a great book divided into three sections of stitches - those with low texture and minimal pattern, medium texture and no diagonal flow and those with well-defined diagonal flow.  Each stitch is charted without numbering but a good explanation and ideas of uses is included.  This is a wonderful book for beginners AND seasoned stitchers.  Sharon plans 11 more books in her series.  $29.50.

SuZy's Portable Stitches II, Distilled from SuZy's Lite Stitches and SuZy's Mini Stitches by SuZy Murphy - the title of the book pretty much says it all.  What it doesn't tell you is that I find this book very helpful to carry with me!  It has some of the more complex stitches charted for you and is easier than carrying the larger books to your stitching nights or classes!  $24.95.

Stitch Landscape by Little Shoppe Canvas Company Inc. - is a new GREAT book from the same people who gave us the fun cookies so many have stitched.  This book gives us ideas for Clouds, Flowers, Grass, Mountains, Sand, Shrubbery and Bushes, Sky, Snow, Soil, Stone, Trees and Bark and Water.  That being said, there are 75 pages in this 5-1/2" x 8" wirebound book with about three to six stitches on each page or some great stitch hints like "Size and scale of a mountain will determine the stitch.  Choose a smaller, smooth stitch for distance and a larger texture stitch in the forefront."  You're going to love this book!  We expect to see more from this company and will continue to bring them to you. 

NEW TOOLS IN THE SHOP

Thread Zap II - this is a great tool that I've heard about for some time and finally found!  It's basically a thread burner to "cauterize" those threads that run and drive us all crazy.  The tip of the thread burner heats up and burns the end of the thread, stopping it from fraying.  Runs on one AA battery not included.  Tip can be replaced when necessary.  $13.25.

EZ Beader  - this little gadget keeps your beads on your canvas for easy beading!  It attaches with two magnets and has a sticky area for your beads.  When you're finished, just pop the whole thing back in the plastic case to keep it clean and dust-free for your next use.  $11.00. 

Autumn Monthly Project Club

This year's project is an autumn theme and includes 6 acorns, 4 corn cobs and a squirrel for the center.  I had the idea that I would finish mine by attaching the acorns and corns to a grapevine wreath and put the squirrel in the center.  You can do this with yours or create a swag or make them into ornaments and make the squirrel into an adorable standup!  There's lots you can do with them and the best part (besides the price) is the size!  The acorns measure approximately 2-1/4 x 2-3/4".  The corn is 1-7/8" x 5" and the squirrel is 5 x 5-3/4" before background is stitched.  That means you can fit this into your busy stitching schedule!  There are only 11 pieces so you can take your time! 

Kits vary each month because of the threads but most threads are used more than once, some even more than twice!  Kit costs are being estimated now and will likely run between $45 and $60 each month.  Kits include canvas, all threads and stitch guides! Please call for more information and come in to see the finished pieces.  If you love acorns and autumn, you'll want to be in the Club!

Summer Schedule:  Due to the Summer Market I attend, Homestead Needle Arts will be CLOSED on the following days:

Thursday June 9 and Friday June 10

 

Also remember that the Greatest Needlepoint Garage Sale on the Earth :-) is always held on the 3rd weekend in July so this year it will be held July 14, 15 and 16.  Prepare NOW if you're interested in putting items in - remember needlepoint items only.  We'll have more information for you during the last week of June about drop off  dates. 

 

Oh My Stars!

Our Oh My Stars stitch-in is continuing with our members stitching about one star a month.  I'm enjoying the companionship of these great stitchers as we lay 3 billion floss threads to achieve this monumental project.  It's the only way some of us stay on track.  Have you considered joining a stitching group?

 

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April 11, 2011

April brings us a new Trunk Show - Elements by Dream House Ventures.  This is the same company that gives us Soy Luster and Baroque Silk so don't be afraid to choose these threads when you choose one of these outstanding painted canvases! 

Again, here's some wall shots. If you need a close-up because you can't find it on her website (http://www.dreamhouseventures.com/shop/designers-showcase/elements-fine-handpainted-needlepoint.htm) just email me and I'll try to get that picture out to you. 

The above are mostly floral.  Some are traditional and some are geometric in nature.  The middle one is a stunning vase that I love.  There are two (you can see one here) scissor cases with pinkeep or pincushion that I wish I had time to do.

Here's the right side of that same wall.  I also LOVE that red/green leafy tree with the blue in the background.  So much to choose from!

Above are signs, coasters, wallets and a Blackberry case or small purse.

Here comes some more REALLY good stuff.  These look like Indian blankets, geometric quilts and check out those cat eyes too!

Then I added the birds, butterflies and more geometrics.  I hope you can zoom in on the really colorful ones at the bottom right.  I'd love to stitch all four!

These are the smaller floral pieces, both realistic and geometric.  The ones over my office doors are spirits from cave drawings.  Lots of great stuff on this wall. 

Awesome!  This is the Christmas hallway.  What are those?  Christmas socks and pictures of course!  The one on the very left says Oh Joy.  Then Be Jolly.  These socks just kill me.  Wish I had legs like that.  More below.

Okay, so that's most of the canvases that came in.  There are a few more on the table.  Let me know if you need prices or have questions.  Most are 18 ct, but some were sent in both 13 and 18. 

This Trunk Show is ONLY HERE FOR TWO WEEKS, so be sure to come in or call me if you're interested in anything.  I'll be glad to give you sizes and prices via phone or email.  Have a great week! 

Theresa

Homestead Needle Arts

Grand Blanc, MI

810-694-3040, 888-694-3040

www.homesteadneedlearts.com

email:  shop@homesteadneedlearts.com

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Whee!  I finally got this software downloaded on my laptop so I can communicate with pictures again!  Don't get TOO excited - I'm just going to show you some wall pictures that I couldn't post last week!  One step at a time on this computer thing...and then the same steps all over when I have a new desktop. 

Here are the Lee Needle Art pictures I took:

The top row are beautiful pillow pieces on 13 ct. canvas.  The next eight are some of their new florals.

More pillows on the top, the new Bazooples children line in the center along with Dog Tales.  You can't see the Cat Tales below him but it's a beautiful tabby cat you might want to look up on their website.  Then the blue bordered ones are new flowers too.  Those tulips and pansies are worth a second look.  In between I posted some items in the shop from other designers made to fit Lee's leathers. 

If you're into the BIGGER cats, these are for you!  From left to right, Tiger, Snow Leopard, Cheetah.  (Yes, I had to look them up.  All I know about big cats is that I can't out run them!)

Here's a sampling of the fans and one of the lady faces they carry.

These are a huge hit with moms and grandmas alike.  This is a great photo book that you can slide your needlepoint into the front of.  The piece on the front is a suggestion of what you can put in there.  Remember there's also a black one that you can give a family member for any occasion.

Here's a FEW of the purses that are here...and these aren't the big ones!  I just like to sit here and breathe in the scent of leather.  Ahhhhh!

Left top to bottom right:  CD case, gold mini sock, e-book cover, mirrors, jewelry cases.  More colors available in the e-reader cover.

Left top to bottom right:  Red pillow, magenta bag (last one), wallets, eyeglass cases, checkbook cover (not shown), luggage tags, gift boxes.  Leather pillow, gift boxes available in more colors.

Enjoy the lovely weather we're having!

Theresa

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February 14, 2011

 

Dear Stitching Friends,

It’s time to celebrate the shop anniversary!  This year marks the seventh year that I’ve owned Homestead Needle Arts.  For that reason, the theme to the party this year is Lucky Sevens!  Sadly, I was not able to bring a one-armed bandit into the shop, also known as a slot machine.  However, I’ll throw the

 

Anniversary Party

Saturday, February 19, 2011

and I’d like YOU to attend.

As usual, I’ll have plenty of refreshments for you and –

What’s that?  You want discounts?  Somebody wants 7%?  No, I think the minimum you’ll WIN is 10%.  That’s right, I’m going to make you draw for a discount.  You KNOW I always make you work for it!   You’ll win

          10% off, 15% off or even 20% off

and your discount will be STOREWIDE!  (Prior orders, special orders, finishing and classes excluded as usual.)  For our  internet friends, you’ll receive 10% off OR free shipping, your choice.  (If you’re not sure which is better, we’ll let you know upon weighing your order.)  You’ll also receive a free thread keeper bag with your order!

Everybody who makes a purchase ON SATURDAY will be entered to win a

 

$70.00 gift certificate to Homestead Needle Arts

 

including all internet orders placed ANYTIME on February 19, 2011.  Winner will be notified on Tuesday, February 22. 

 

SATURDAY ONLY, we’ll even have merchandise marked 70% off!

 

Need something now?  Just come in or place your order online and mention that you’d like your Lucky 7 discount and you’ll receive 10% off all this week, Tuesday through Friday.  On Saturday, you might win a bigger discount!

Thank you for another successful year in business.  I’m happy to celebrate another year with you!

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DECEMBER/JANUARY HOLIDAY HOURS

Dear Stitchers,

Here come the best holidays of the year!  As you know I LOVE to spend time with family and friends.  I LOVE to do inventory and to visit Market too.  For these reasons, Homestead Needle Arts will be closed the following days.  Remember, we're always closed Sundays and Mondays.

Friday, December 24, Christmas Eve

Saturday, December 25, Christmas Day

Friday, December 31, New Year's Eve

Saturday, January 1, New Year's Day THROUGH January 10, 2011 for Market in Long Beach, CA.

That's right, this year's Market is unusually early so I'm NOT closing between Christmas and New Year's but I AM closing to fly out to Market and back. 

If you want me to find a special canvas or needlework tool for you, please call or email me immediately and I'll look at Market in January. 

Remember, I DO have Gift Certificates for your stitching friends that they can use on our website.  I'm still here until December 23rd so don't be afraid to come in or order anything you need before Christmas. 

Thank you again for all of your business this past year.  It's always fun to work with you and see what treasures you've stitched.  May you and your families have a warm and happy holiday!  And may we all have a blessed and prosperous New Year! 

Theresa

Homestead Needle Arts LLC

Grand Blanc, MI

810-694-3040, 888-694-3040

shop now at:  http:\\www.homesteadneedlearts.com

email me at:  shop@homesteadneedlearts.com

 

 

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November 9, 2010

 

Hello again stitchers!

I received a phenomenal response on the Oh My Stars stitch in idea.  Lots of you are intrigued enough to stitch it on your own which is a great idea also since so many of you are too far to come to our monthly meetings.   You can still sign up and if you do not wish to come, of course you can still purchase the chart and any supplies you might want.

Some of you have expressed an interest in changing to a brighter color palette.  Thanks to Barbi S. of Arizona, you can!  Barbi changed the Weeks Dye Works to what she calls “tropical” colors for the stars and then changed the border flosses to coordinate.  She was kind enough to share them with me and I will send the list to those participants that want to change colors.  At this time, I’m attaching her picture with her permission.  Barbi used the same neutral colors in the background so you don’t need to change those out.   Please remember that computer monitors and photographs can show colors differently than we see them in real life! 

                      

For those of you wanting to change your colors, please let me know.  I plan on ordering the flosses that Barbi used from the wholesaler ONE time during the first week of December so you WILL need to order from me by the end of November.  If you miss the deadline you can place your order directly with the wholesaler. 

We will start our stitch-ins on Saturday, January 8, 2011 at 10:00 a.m.  Please do note that this is not the first Saturday of the month simply because that Saturday is January 1st and to many of you may be recovering from the night before!  Remember, this is a stitch-in and NOT a class.  We will be enjoying the stitching process together and helping each other.  There will NOT be teacher, which is why there is not a fee.  However, you are asked to purchase your chart and canvas at Homestead Needle Arts.  Your threads can be from your stash, shared with your stitching buddies or of course, purchased from us.

Please note – if you wish to order anything, please call or email me with your name and phone number.  I will then call you for your information. 

I’m sure looking forward to these stitch-ins.  I looked through my entire floss stash and only had about 12 of the required flosses.  Can you believe it? 

Theresa

Homestead Needle Arts LLC

Grand Blanc, MI

810-694-3040, 888-694-3040

Shop now at:  www.homesteadneedlearts.com

Email me at:  shop@homesteadneedlearts.com

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November 3, 2010

Dear Stitchers,

 

The beautiful Brenda Stofft Trunk Show is here.  I booked this show at the request of several customers and I sure am glad I did.  Take a look at these pictures! 

Here's a multiple piece bear and a cone-shaped Santa.  What a great finishing idea!  Way, way in the background of this, you can see rabbits on the wall.  If you're lucky you can even see the Asian style rabbit that Jane of Chilly Hollow stitched - hint - it has a light blue background!  But I think that this bear is ULTRA adorable.  And there's LOTS of room on Santa for some fun stitches. 

These are adorable too.  Even better are the witches and cats you haven't seen yet plastering the walls.  There are cats in a Halloween parade, cats pulling pumpkin carts, cats dressed up, cats flying with and without witches...so much more!

Adorable Easter samples.  We have enough chicks, rabbits and lambs to suit everybody!  Don't miss out on the best selection by coming late.  These are two-sided pieces and you can have them made into pull toys as shown.  Don't worry - there are LOTS of one sided pieces.  :-)

Just a few more pictures to tease you...

All of these canvases have lots of fun details to stitch.  If you love Christmas, Halloween or rabbits, then DON’T MISS this trunk show.  Please visit or order by Saturday, November 20th because  I MUST ship this back the Tuesday before Thanksgiving.  That gives you a mere 3 weeks starting NOW to see this.  We’re giving special pricing AND punching your key tags just so that you can own one of these hand painted beauties.  I have my eye on several already but don’t worry!  I’ll let you have first pick.  You can also see these on Brenda’s website at www.brendastofftdesigns.com.

This is the last Trunk Show I’m hosting this year.  If you want to point your loved ones here for a Christmas gift, we will be happy to do a layaway program for these canvases.  Of course we also have gift certificates but wouldn’t it be fun to unwrap a special Santa canvas and come in during the new year to choose threads?

If you’re into Thanksgiving – and who doesn’t love family time, turkey and pumpkin pie? – I’ve got some adorable canvases that you might want to take a look at.  Turkeys, leaves, and houses show us the best of giving thanks for our blessings.    I hope you’ve all made your Thanksgiving plans – I’ve certainly made mine and I’m looking forward to it!   Homestead Needle Arts will be closed from Wednesday, November 20 through Monday, November 29 and re-open on Tuesday, November 30.  

See you soon for the Trunk Show!

Theresa

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October 28, 2010

Late last year, a chart came out called Oh My Stars! by Needle Delights.  Ever since, I’ve been itching to stitch it and so have a few other people that I know of.  We thought it would be fun to have stitch-ins and encourage each other to work on this piece made up of a bazillion tiny squares.   

Here’s the key info:  when completed it measures 13 x 13 on 18 ct. canvas.  It requires an 18” square piece of white canvas.  The chart is 35 pages long.  The main part is made up of squares and rectangles that are 18 x 24 and 24 x 24 threads.  Sound intriguing?  I’m starting a First Saturday of the Month Stitch-In for OH MY STARS only. 

To join in the stitch-in you must purchase (or have purchased) your chart and canvas here at Homestead Needle Arts.  The chart is $38.50 and the canvas is $16.20.  The piece requires (23) DMC floss, (59) Anchor floss and (9) Weeks Dye Works.  These might be found in your stash, or shared with other stitchers you’ll find here at the stitch-in.  If you do not have the required threads I would appreciate you purchasing them here but it is not a requirement.  If you want a complete thread kit we have them available for $77.20.  If you want to change the colors, no problem!  One of our stitchers is already planning her changes because she wants it brighter.  Don't be shy!  Make it your own!

Plans are to start in December although because of the holidays we may start in 2011.  The first Saturday in January is January 1st, so right away, this would get moved by a week to January 8th!

If you’re interested or just want to purchase the chart and canvas and drop in occasionally to stitch with us, please let me know so that I can order the chart for you now.  I have one here for you to review of course. 

There will not be a charge to participate in the stitch-in but remember, this stitch-in is for Oh My Stars only.

Let me know if you’re interested via email or a phone call.  I’m really looking forward to stitching this piece with you!  For those of you who have stitched it, you can cheer us on! 

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October 13, 2010

What's New?  It's a question most of you love to ask when you come in and I love to show you what's new in the world of needlepoint! 

DC Designs Trunk Show - October

Right now we have DC Designs Trunk Show in the shop and on the wall for you!   These designs are fresh and fun to stitch.  These canvases have lots of great areas and colors to compliment your stitches.  See if there's something here that you like. I know some of you can't drive the three gazillion miles to see it so here's the pictures of this Trunk Show.

That Halloween House in the lower right hand corner is adorable because it has lollipops on the two sides and skull and crossbones in all four corners! The colors on my monitor are off so they might be too bright on your computer too!  Don't be scared by the lower circles, they aren't THAT bright.  What about those ornaments!  Wow!  These all measure 8 x 8 and are only $50.50.  You'll get your keytag punched too!  Don't know what I'm talking about?  Just ask me about our Loyal Canvas Customer Club.  

Up top that first ornament says Joy.  The next two are eyeglass cases, then a cardinal and a reindeer.  I think you can see most of the second row except for the last two - that's a white rabbit (probably Margaret J. of CA will grab that one) and a dove.  This picture is NOT doing justice to the tree on the bottom either.  It's metallic gold with green swirls on a bright blue background.  These squares are 5 x 5 for only $32.25.  The eyeglass cases (rectangles) are only $30!  The ornaments (rounds) are only $27.50! 

Some more rounds and that one in the pink is indeed a sheep.  And look!  You even get a shot of some of the new magnets!  Those are just so hard to show online. 

   

This is the last of it, with more rounds and eyeglass cases - or pillow inserts if you prefer.  Or have it made into a stitching tool case with zipper!  My finishers can do that for you!  That one on the left is called Three Little Pigs.  It's a sheep, a pig and a cow with an eating disorder.  The one above it is called Nutty Christmas and features a crazy squirrel.  Choose one or more, and we'll ship them out or hold them for you to visit! 

Here is the promised picture of the Silk and Ivory Stardust.  I've ordered more in all three colors so just advise how many you want! 

Yummy!  See you soon! 

Theresa

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September 30, 2010

Dear Stitchers,

 

So much to tell you!  Where do I start?

 

The trees are DEFINITELY turning color here in Michigan.  I love autumn.  The other morning I was pleased by the colors around me…my blue jeans, green sweater and my golden dog walking through the already falling leaves of red, yellow and brown.  These colors always inspire me to take up my needle again and try to recreate autumn on my canvases.  I have pulled out several unfinished autumn pieces and of course hung up all the Autumn, Halloween and Thanksgiving pieces in the shop.  We have lots of pumpkins, leaves, turkeys and witches to keep you happy. 

And if none of these interest you, guess who's coming to town?  This is just a SAMPLING of the many Christmas items we have in stock...

                      

One of my stitchers asked about a Thanksgiving turkey she saw in an ad in the July/August issue of Needlepoint Now and I found the designer and added her link.  Her business name is Tapestry Fair so go take a look if you want to do a fun quilted turkey.  It comes in both painted and line drawn with a stitch guide.  Thanks to Jane B. for asking!

 

BOOKS:  Coming in the door, we have re-stocked The Left-Handed Embroiderer’s Companion.  This came out about a year ago and was such a hit, that author Yvette Stanton decided to publish a book for right-handers – hence The Right-Handed Embroiderer’s Companion.  This is a soft cover book consisting of 160 pages with lots of diagrams in color.  It covers BOTH embroidery and canvas stitches with an emphasis on embroidery.  However, the savvy stitcher knows that stitches are basically the same with the ground fabric being different.  At a reasonable $28.00 you’ll want to add this to your stitching library!

While we’re on books, Ruth Schmuff’s Stitches Vol. I and II have been well received.  There are many stitches in here that I haven’t seen before.  Come on in and browse these two books.  They’d be a great Christmas gift for you from a loving family member!  We can start a wish list for you as we’ve done in the past.   Also, I placed a HUGE order with one of my booksellers and the box just came in.  After this newsletter, I'll go open it, so start watching the "What's New" area to see what treasures I've uncovered in books. 

 

NEW CHART:  For my chart lovers, From Nancy’s Needle has started a new series called American Life Series and began it with School Days.  This darling piece shows a red school house with our American flag standing watch.  A tiny metal bell is included for the bell tower.  An apple tree in autumnal colors is in the center and a blue house with a quilt banner on the fence stands on the right.  The border is a wonderful Milanese variation giving it a nice quilted look.  We carry many of her charts and will order any of them for you, so just ask.  Her next chart is based on Thanksgiving. 

                                     

If you want a Jean Hilton designs, please note that I can and will order any of them for you.  Don’t be fooled into thinking they’re either unavailable or only available at one source.  ANY of your LOCAL NEEDLEWORK SHOPS can order them for you.  Jean sold her charts to one distributor who is also a shop and all of us are able to obtain them from her.  Please be sure to support your Local Needlework Shop and ask them.  If they don’t know where to order them, please have them contact me and I’ll be happy to give them the information. 

 

NEW PAINTED CANVAS:  For my painted canvas lovers, I have the full train in stock by A Collection of Designs.  You may remember this from one of the yearly clubs from another shop.  If you’d like all 12 pieces, or just a few, just email or call and ask!  This is an adorable train with Santa in the engine, a coal car, a teddy bear car, Santa’s sleigh, a candy cane tanker, a snowman, reindeer, large present, 2 elves, milk and cookie car, gift car and Mrs. Claus in the caboose.  This would be an exceptional collection under your tree, on your mantel or as a future remembrance of you for a special family member that may not be old enough to appreciate it yet!   

We’ve also received Sharon G’s latest triptych of two dragonflies and a beautiful pink/white calla lily, a new designer who specializes in tiles and fun Christmas ornaments, and a couple of Birmingham school themed ornaments.   Anytime you want to see what I just added on our website hit the “What’s New” button.

                                       

TRUNK SHOWS:  October 9-23 DC Designs – whimsical ornaments, perfectly sized pillow pieces and fun designs, you’ll love Derek’s fresh style.  He’s the son of Amanda Lawford and his pieces have lots of nice open areas for your stitches to show!  We’ve had some here before and they’ve flown off the walls so be prepared.  The pricing is great!

 

November 2010 -  Brenda Stofft – You asked and we answered YES!  Here comes Brenda’s artistic pieces.  You’ll want to be ready for this show – be sure to tell your family to buy your Christmas gift during November!  Start browsing now here by visiting http://www.brendastofftdesigns.com/.   Brenda just posted her latest 3-D Santa piece on her Facebook page and he’s a keeper! 

 

Peeking ahead to 2011, we’ll be hosting a Lee Needle Arts show so keep that in mind as you plan your stitching for 2011!

 

PAINTED CANVAS CLUB:  I’m working on next year’s monthly club pieces.  I haven’t announced anything yet because I wanted to have them finished into something spectacular before I showed them and started planning sign-ups.  If you have ideas about what kind of monthly club you’d like to see Homestead Needle Arts host, I’D BE THRILLED TO HEAR IT!  Do you want a monthly nativity?  More ornaments by a certain designer?  Charted pieces?  Shaped ornaments (i.e. stars?)  Stand-ups?  One piece that you work on monthly? I try to come up with ideas for clubs that I think you’ll like but I don’t know ALL of you personally (can you believe it?)  If you’re NOT a monthly club person why is that?  Do you want something small?  Do you hate commitments?  Let me hear your feedback at shop@homesteadneedlearts.com.  I love to hear from you and all comments are taken seriously. 

 

SALE:  Don’t forget our Gentle Arts Sampler Threads are still 25% off.  I WILL still be carrying favorite colors and yes, I WILL still order them for you.  I’m trying to bring in yet another line of threads for your stitching pleasure and I need the additional rack space.  So help me clear some space AND enhance your stash. 

                                               

NEW SILK COLORS:  Vineyard Silks and Baroque Silks both sent me new colors this week and I posted them to my website.  Vineyard Silks has the following new colors:  211 Coral Pink, 212 True Pink, 213 Azalea, 214 Naples Blue, 215 Hush, 216 Sea Fog, 217 Dusk, and 218 Shadow.  Beautiful colors, all of them.   Baroque Silk has the following:  1188 Gravity ( a really dark purple), 1292 Dreamland, 1294 Mermaid, 1296 Artesian, 1052 Sunset, 1058 Campfire, 1332 Malt, and 1354 Old Gold.  See these new colors on our website!

 

NEW MAGAZINE:  Next, De Selby has started a new large newspaper style magazine called Spool.  It retails for only $4.95 and is aimed towards the younger market interested in getting into needle arts.  The articles include counted thread, needlepoint, knitting and crochet.  Don’t turn away because I said younger market!  I was so pleased by many things I read in there thatI think you’ll like it too. 

                                        

 

For example, there’s an article in how to paint your own canvas with a shoe canvas and the full instructions telling you EXACTLY how to get started.  I’ve had many questions on this over the years and actually we’ve had a class here on this same thing.  Why am I telling you this?  For one, I think everybody should take a shot at painting a canvas.  I have and I certainly do NOT excel at it.  However, you know when you just don’t like that one little thing on your canvas and wish you could paint it out…or paint it a little differently…or change the color…this WILL help you determine how the painters do what they do!  My class gave me a greater appreciation for the artists that paint our canvases.

There are other GREAT articles in this new magazine so be sure to come in and pick up your copy OR ask us to send you one.   

DEADLINE:  Our Christmas deadline of October 1 is TOMORROW - BUT we will still send your Christmas stitching out for finishing.  So far both my two of my finishers have said they will continue to be able to finish in time for Christmas so GET THOSE PIECES IN!!!  This does NOT include those who want machine embroidery on the back (that's a different finisher). 

I think that’s all for now.  I hope to see your smiling face now that Autumn has truly arrived or catch up on my emails from you!  Stitch on!

 

Theresa 

Homestead Needle Arts LLC

Grand Blanc, Michigan

810-694-3040, 888-694-3040 toll free

Shop now at:  www.homesteadneedlearts.com

Email me at:  shop@homesteadneedlearts.com

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September 9, 2010

Here's the Earth and Sky Trunk Show with FINISHED ITEMS! 

Adorable hearts at the bottom, great southwest, teapots, sunflowers, florals, landscapes...I LOVE those dark birds flying through the birch trees.

   A side shot so you can see the small kimonos and some more of the florals.  You can see better detail at her website, www.earthandskydesigns.com.

Here's two of the pictures in mats.  Great!

These are called Whizzits and are stitched faces surround by beads.  The kit contains the fabric and instructions for finishing.  They're all cute but I think the pumpkin and witch are really great.

Here are four pictures framed as one and a checkerboard bird done as a small pillow.  The other three items are needlecases and the colors are beautiful. 

This is called Crow Goddess.  She comes with our "favorite thing" - a stitch guide!  She's done here as a large standup. 

That's it for this month's trunk show.  If you want any of these canvases or see something online, just call or email me. 

Theresa

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September, 2010

A quick pic of some of this year's Trees of the Month back from the finisher - that wonderful patriotic one was stitched by Suzanne B.  The little frog frame weight is mine and doesn't really belong but was on the same shelf!

 

 

 

August 20, 2010

Hello again from Vacation Land!

More pictures in case you want to see them!  More animals of course.  Just be happy I'm not posting EVERYTHING I took pictures of...

Hey, even the construction looks better when you're on vacation!  :-)

Elk...with velvet on his antlers.

Black bear having breakfast at Yellowstone National Park.  Gee, how do you think I knew it was breakfast?  You've got to get up PRETTY EARLY to see a bear!

Great waterfall!  But those braids?  Yikes!

  I was watching this darling eagle across the river when he (she?) decided to fly closer to ME!  What a thrill.  Of course with the wonder of digital cameras and the computer I was able to make it as big as it was in my binoculars!

  Who could this be?  :-)

That's it!  I think we have to think about driving back now.  We're still trying to decide what route to drive home.  I guess we might be seeing a LOT of cornfields unless we do something CRAZY and pick a new route.  See you soon!

Theresa

Homestead Needle Arts LLC

Grand Blanc, MI

810-694-3040, 888-694-3040

www.homesteadneedlearts.com

email:  shop@homesteadneedlearts.com

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August 14, 2010

Dear Stitchers,

 

Following are a few of the many pictures I’ve taken so far on vacation.  Here’s an idea of what I’ve seen…very little of it has to do with stitching!

Check out the size of the Jackalopes in South Dakota!  Oh come ON!  You have to be a little bit foolish on vacation!

Custer State Park – this is in South Dakota and the views were beautiful. 

My new BFF (best friend forever).  I want to breed Prairie Dogs at home (they are dogs, right?) but Mike seems to be worried about the lawn.  :-)

Close enough for me thanks!  I have already seen so many bison (buffalo) that I can’t believe it.  This crowd decided to cross the road RIGHT behind our car.  Incredible! 

Okay, so, their hair looks better than mine, what can I say?

This tunnel is called “The Needle’s Eye” and only one at a time please!  We drove the Needle Highway and it’s called that for a reason!  The rocks are all pointy and look like needles.  There were several tunnels that you had to manuveur through.     

Burro and her baby – just adorable and MUCH further away than this picture looks.  Thank goodness for digital cameras!

 

Hope you enjoyed this little window into my vacation!  I have lots more but don't want to bore you. 

Don't forget, we'll be open next Saturday for your convenience!  Janet would love to see you, so be sure to stop by and stock up on your needlepoint needs.  I'll just keep goofing off until we meet again!

 

Theresa

Homestead Needle Arts LLC

Grand Blanc, MI

810-694-3040, 888-694-3040

www.homesteadneedlearts.com

email:  shop@homesteadneedlearts.com

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Hello Stitchers!

 

Hold onto your hats, here comes the first wave from Market!  I hope you like pictures.  Let’s start with the books...

Book Reviews:

Colorful Stitches for Over-dye Threads by June McKnight – spiral bound, 141 pages, $38.  This is one of June’s little books that are so convenient to have nearby.  She explains the multiple terms used in describing threads and dyed threads, types of dyeing techniques, how certain threads take to dyes, and hints on manipulating color in overdyed threads.  She then gives you just under 100 pages showing on one side a stitched worked in an overdyed thread and the graphed version of that stitch on the facing page.  This can give the stitcher an idea of what their thread will look like in that stitch.  You might also fall in love with some of the colors shown and luckily, she names them for you.  You’ll enjoy this new tiny treasure from June.

                                   

Potpourri of Pattern Encore, A Collection of Previously Unpublished Patterns for Canvas and Counted Thread Use by Ann Strite-Kurz – comb bound, 130 pages, $42.50.   This book is intended to supplement material provided in Ann’s earlier books and most patterns presented are composite arrangements with two or more steps.  Ann fans will understand that most of her stitch patterns are open but some are denser and using heavier threads will change your outcome even more.  She gives an introduction and reviews techniques used, then includes 22 color pages of patterns and the front and back covers.  In the rest of the chapters she explains the background patterns, border patterns, laid filings, composite patterns, diaper patterns and finally has an exercise in color comparisons.  This book is akin to taking a class with Ann!

 

Stumpwork Medieval Flora by Jane Nicholas – hard cover, 286 pages, $32.95.  Here’s the latest from Jane!  She has had a long fascination with illuminated manuscripts from the medieval era (some pictures included of those) and was inspired to work eight flowers in stumpwork embroidery.  Five are worked as botanical specimens with their Latin names below them and three as illuminated panels – all eight are of course, beautiful.  This book takes you through each piece and teaches you how to reproduce them for yourself.  The flowers and bugs included are Corncockle and Dragonfly, Herb Robert and Caterpillar, Star of Bethlehem and Grasshopper, Tansy and Damselfly, Venus’ Looking Glass and Bumblebee, the panels include Bittersweet and Butterfly (you can do this one for me!), Snowdrop and Cranefly, and Wild Pea and Longhorn Moth.  Of course this book is beautiful! 

 

Rainbow Gallery  - New Thread Colors!

 

Silk Lame’ Braid for 13 ct now comes in the following fifteen colors (already available in Silk Lame’ for 18 ct.) Dark Antique Blue, Lite Lavender, Lagoon, Pumpkin, Dark Chocolate, Emerald, Black Sparkle, Pale Avocado, Lite Peach, Lite Chartreuse, Pale Lavender, Pale Pink, Wild Rose, Peacock Blue.

 

Silk Lame’ Braid for 18 ct. now available in TEN new colors!: SL78 Cherry, SL79 Dark Cherry, SL80 Pink Carnation, SL81 Platinum, SL82 Lite China Blue, SL83 Dark Turquoise, SL84 Dark Orchid, SL85 Tangerine, SL86 Deep Forest Green,SL87 Bark

                                     

Wisper has FOURTEEN new colors!  W107 Antique White,W108 Flamingo Pink, W109 Mink, W110 Elephant Gray, W111 Honey Blond,W112 Taupe Heather,W113 Palomino, W114 Camel, W115 Pumpkin, W116 Fox Red, W117 Root Beer, W118 Dark Chocolate, W119 Espresso, W120 Chinchilla.  You’ll probably need one of each of these for your stash because who doesn’t need to stitch animals?

Fuzzy Stuff has FOUR news colors – FZ38 Blond, FZ39 Cinnamon, FZ40 Dark Emerald, and FZ41 Dark Pearl Gray.  Yummy!

                           

Sparkle Rays has TWO new colors in PLENTY of time to get your Halloween done – SR77 Pumpkin and SR78 Dark Pumpkin.

                                  

Soft Sheen Fyre Works has TWO new colors FT63 Vintage Silver and FT 64 Dark Aqua. 

                              

Coronet Braid has two new golds that we’ll be happy to order if you need them 39B True Gold, Size 4 and 79B True Gold Size 8.

 

Petite Very Velvet and Very Velvet has SEVEN new colors EACH!  Of course we know they look the same but their width is different.  We always carry Petite Very Velvet because so many of you stitch on 18 ct. but we’re happy to order Very Velvet for you – just ask!  The new colors are V676 – Charcoal, V677 Dark Fuchsia, V678 Turquoise, V679 Brite Orange, V680 Bubble Gum, V681 Sky Blue and V682 Scarlet.

Handy Blue Magnets are back in stock.  Smoother, stronger and still just as reasonable, you get two sets in a package for just $7.75.

 

Vineyard Silk – TWELVE New Thread Colors -  Pale Ale, Simply Simmered, Paradise Pale, Blue Lace, North Sea Green, Mallard Green, Nautical, Seaport, Sapphire, Wellesley Whistle, Gentlemen’s Grey and Polo Blue.

                                 

Brown Paper Packages -  FOUR new colors of Silk and Ivory all in beautiful pale colors – 221 Petal, 222 Glacier, 223 Posie, and 224 Pearl.  We don’t carry the FULL line but we will always order any color you want.  Did you know that you can order this in half hanks and full hanks?  We carry skeins which are 28.8 yards.  Full hanks are 600 yards – sometimes a hank or half hank is a better value when you’re doing a large piece.  Just ask for a price and save!

 

Kreinik now has Tree Jewels – a Christmas ornament kit.  They come in 3 different styles and 3 colorways.  The three styles are Star, Florentine and Candy Stripe and the colorways are Urban, Vintage and Classic.  The kits include full instructions INCLUDING finishing (you can also see photos on their website), canvas, threads and needle – even the Styrofoam ball is included.  Call or email to order them now.  Kreinik suggests saving the circular box to store the ornament in.  Only $44.00 these were designed by Anna Marie-Winter.

      

 

While at market (and afterwards) I sometimes find that my own website could use an update (imagine that!)  I found several vendors that I needed to include on my Designer page.  The first is my Needlework Group!  I belong to TNNA (the National NeedleArts Association) and through that, I belong to the very active Needlework Group.  Our aim is to educate the public regarding needlepoint.  For that reason, we’ve put up a website under www.worldofneedlepoint.com.  I’ve put a link to it on my Designer page at the very top.  Here you can see all kinds of things that I see at market including actual designers (gasp), pictures of their finished items, new canvases, other people’s finished items and current articles on designers and shops.  Have a look!  Also, I have more designers to add to my page so you’ll want to look for the ones that say “New Link” in RED text that will designate that they’re new to the website.  Enjoy browsing!

 

I have to start processing the NEW painted canvases that are coming in now so start watching the website under “What’s New” in the next couple days…and stitch on!

 

Theresa

Homestead Needle Arts LLC

Grand Blanc, Michigan

810-694-3040, 888-694-3040

www.homesteadneedlearts.com

email:  shop@homesteadneedlearts.com 

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Items I have or saw at the June 2010 Market

Party Animals!

  Here's my favorite - see all the Party Animals at the shop or email me for the link.  Buy Miss Kitty and receive a free stitch guide by John Waddell. 

Here's a beautiful floral I can order for you...just call or email for prices on any of these pieces. 

I ordered these wonderful stockings - look for a class on them in the future...

       

There are TWELVE of these cuties.  Each penguin has a different scarf and is holding a different item.  You can do one for every month of the year!

     

And here's a new NOEL piece you might want me to order. 

 

 

 

May 7, 2010

Here are a few pictures of the Raymond Crawford trunk show NOW IN THE SHOP!  I hope you find something engaging...I especially like the Mr. and Mrs. in the lower left corner.

I hope you enJOY the Christimas pieces...

and are not afraid of the boo-tiful Halloween canvases...

including these cupcakes and pointy witch's hats.

If you need something smaller to stitch on your summer vacations, we have just the ticket - lots of 5" squares.

Time to go out and garden?  Or if it's raining, maybe you could work on these...

And then have a little drink before dinner...

Here's hoping these pictures have set your heart "a-flutter". 

Oh p.s., there's a lot more that I didn't include in the pictures - stocking toppers, ornaments, fall themes, mini socks, more butterflies, baby announcements...we're just CRAZY with canvas here!  

Theresa

Homestead Needle Arts LLC

 

April 29, 2010

 

Dear Needlepointing Friends,

I bet you thought I was ignoring you!  Not so.  Over the past long weekend, I have flown to Dallas (in 3 planes) bought over 150 canvases and kits (and ordered some too) and flown back – also in 3 planes.  Yes, I had a good time seeing all the new canvases.   Yes, I bought too much as I spent half of my June budget.  YES, IT WAS CASH AND CARRY!!!  What does that mean to you?

It’s here.  Here IN THE SHOP.  Now.  First come, first served, as the saying goes.  Some of these canvases WON’T be seen by other shops until June.  That’s right!  Those attending Dallas market get a jump on NEW.  A little preview of those canvases includes two of the Floozies by Leigh Designs – don’t want the two I bought?  I can order any of them for you RIGHT NOW and get them because I attended Dallas.  How about the Party Animals?  Those were the rage in Dallas AND I took the Miss Kitty’s Birthday Party class so YOU can have a stitch guide too.  But only here at Homestead Needle Arts! 

I’ve got NEW DARLING dog and cat frame weights to be stitched, NEW box and heart polka dotted pieces, a mermaid AND her laundry, FIVE full size Christmas stockings, one of them hot off the painter’s brush, the LATEST Kelly Clark Christmas Basket – so new, the embellishments weren’t even ready, NEW penguins, a NEW designer from Louisiana with crosses, voodoo and geometrics, the MOST beautiful rabbit’s nest with strawberry border, a beautiful Halloween House, a NEW Halloween tree, and of course, ornaments and mini socks along with Stitch and Zips and Canoodle kits.   I also have Dinky Dyes silk perle #5, the full line -  for those of you that wanted another twisted thread option.   A picture is worth a thousand words though, right?  Here are the large canvases that  I put on the wall.  The smaller ones are in a bin and just waiting for you to look through them…

The floozies have the lavender background and check out those party girls above and the mermaid below.  You can almost see the bunnies to the right and the dog frame weight at the very bottom...

The sun over those hills and flowers is stunning.  Here's a couple of Sharon G's that have been so popular.  There are those polka dot lovelies I told you about.  How about those dogs?  Oops, looks like I cut off the cat frame weight!  In between these there are florals including a Mindy...

Here's a great new Christmas stocking, some favorite Halloweens and two new ones. 

More new stockings, some classics and some baby samplers.  I just can't get enough of these dogs either!  That bottom one is another box, this one with animals and a treetop.

And here are the new PARTY ANIMALS.  There's six but more are coming.  Get them now!

Coming on May 8th  is the RAYMOND CRAWFORD TRUNK SHOW!  Our May 19th class is full BUT you can be on the list for the next class.  Due to popularity, the cost should be less than the anticipated $140.  So call and get on the list as I’m thinking $125 will be more in line with the teaching fee as long as that class fills too. 

Also, if you're interested in "Kelly's Club" which is the Patterned Pears that you've seen in "Needlepoint Now", contact me to be in the Club.  I only need three people to be a participating retailer!  You'll receive the 12 pear canvases and stitch guides, threads and accessories.  I saw these pears in real life at the Dallas market and they are truly beautiful.  They would make beautiful ornaments for your tree or have a themed tree with pears only!  Call me to sign up and I'll get you pricing information.   Here are 3 of the 12 pears. 

   

Keep stitching!

Theresa

Homestead Needle Arts LLC

Grand Blanc, MI

810-694-3040, 888-694-3040

www.homesteadNeedle Arts.com

email:  shop@homesteadNeedle Arts.com

 

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