It’s very satisfying indeed to know that the free embroidery resources here on Needle ‘n Thread are used! And I love it when readers send photos of their own embroidery work, using the embroidery patterns or needlework tutorials available on the website.

So I was thrilled when Jane sent a photo of her rendition of my blackwork tree design that she’s making up into ornaments this year.

Isn’t it fun? I love the white tree on the green linen – such a good idea! The whole effect is very lacy and light. The addition of the red beads up the “trunk” and the gold beads for the star really dress the tree up.

I thought I’d share the photo with you, in case you’re exploring Christmas embroidery options. Blackwork (done in Holbein stitch or in backstitch) works up quickly, so you’d probably still have time to squeeze a few in before Christmas.

Thanks, Jane, for sending the photo! It made my day!

Coming Up on Needle ‘n Thread

This weekend, I’m working on several projects, including a small Jacobean variation in wool threads using tambour embroidery and other surface stitches, the Mission Rose (yes, it’s still coming along – I’ll be putting in two hours on it today – can’t wait!), and, given the snowy forecast for tomorrow, it’ll be a perfect day to make some progress on my Hungarian redwork runner. The latter is coming along in bits and snatches. So, some project updates are definitely coming up!

There’s a review of a nice little book coming up. It’s a book I’m pretty excited about and I think you will be, too!

Some instructional tidbits will make it into the mix; I might show off a treasured tool or two; and don’t forget that I’m giving away four Trish Burr needle painting kits right now – the winners will be announced later this week. If you haven’t signed up, you can do so here.

Wishing you a splendiferous weekend!