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November 10, 2007

Table of Contents

• Sewing Circle -- New Shepherd's Bush Christmas Stocking: Brett
• To the Point -- Easy Embroidery for Children
• Words of Wisdom
• Find of the Month -- Machine Embroidery Thanksgiving Turkey Pattern File

Sewing Circle
It's finally here! Brett's counted cross stitch Christmas stocking is now available from ALC Unlimited. Shepherd's Bush releases a new stocking design every year. Brett's Christmas stocking is another masterpiece in the collection. The patterns always resemble folk art and have a traditional country feel with lots of symbols. The added charms and buttons make the stockings even more special. Kids love them. I know lots of people like to make these stockings for their grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. I can't think of a better gift, and a stocking will become an heirloom to be taken out, displayed, used, and treasured year after year. For tips on how to finish a Christmas stocking, visit this page.

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To the Point
I recently had a question from a reader: "I'm looking for a simple printed sampler with the alphabet on it for a young child (9) to work on. Any ideas?"

Well, when I was around 9 or 10, I was really into the American Girl book series, and I remember making an easy sampler from the books about Samantha. I believe you can find it in "Samantha's Craft Book." The pattern was for a phrase, exactly like the one the girl in the story made, but I think they give the whole alphabet in the book incase you want to write something else.

The reader didn't say whether her child is a boy or girl, but even if it's a boy, I told her, this sampler is worth a look. It's not pre-printed on cloth as she had in mind, but the craft book tells you how to do it with a pencil, and it's so much more interesting because of the connection to the Samantha character and the Victorian era.

Take a look at the embroidery for children page for more ideas. Why not let your gift this year be to introduce a child to the joys of handmade needlework?

Words of Wisdom
Blessed are they that run around in circles, for they shall be known as wheels.

Find of the Month
Since the handstitchers can now get busy teaching kids how to make a sampler, I have another free pattern this month for those who use an embroidery machine. This time it's a plump Thanksgiving turkey!

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!