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June 10, 2008

Table of Contents

• Sewing Circle -- National Cross Stitch Show
• To the Point -- Punch Needle Fluff Brush
• Words of Wisdom
• Find of the Month -- Ruby-Throated Hummingbird Pattern

Sewing Circle
The 24th National Cross Stitch Show in Rockome Gardens, located in Arcola, Illinois is well underway. This year's theme is "Life Is a Stitch". Stitchers have entered pieces to be judged or for display only. The ribbons are now up on the winning pieces. Weekend show attendees helped select the Viewer's Choice award winner. I live in Maryland, so it's too far for me, but if you are in the Illinois area, don't miss this event!

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To the Point
In last month's newsletter, I highlighted punch needle embroidery. Iris sent in a question asking how to use a fluff brush to make punch needle work look like hair. She is working on a unicorn, but I have seen this technique used most often on Santa's beard.

A fluff brush is another one of the tools specially designed for use with punch needle. It has a row or two of sharp points that are bent at an angle. To use it, point the angled needles in the direction you want the fluff to go. Hold the brush parallel above the fabric, and lower it just until the needles touch top edges of the loops. Brush in one direction only, the direction you have the needles angled toward. Do NOT push down too far and snag the base fabric. Also, do not force it. Brush for awhile to break the loops up gently.

I have heard of people achieving the same results with a spiny dog brush, but I have never tried that. I actually do not have an official "fluff brush" either -- I use a tool from my wool spinning supplies that is called a flicker. It is the same as a fluff brush only slightly larger and perhaps sharper. I have to be very cautious with it to avoid injuring myself! Please be careful when you fluff, too.

Words of Wisdom
"The trouble with doing something right the first time is that nobody appreciates how difficult it was."

Find of the Month
I love to watch the birds at this time of year and listen to their songs. For this month's free pattern, I found a cross stitch hummingbird from the Crossed Wing Collection. These designers specialize in birds. This pattern calls for going back with a blending filament to add iridescence to the ruby throat. If you want to make it look more like a ruby-throated hummingbird, use greens instead of grays. Enjoy!

You're Invited: Please share your stitching stories, ideas, words of wisdom, find of the month, or questions. Just reply to this newsletter and tell me what you think! I'd love to hear from you.

The most interesting feedback will be shared in next month's issue!