Stitch Passion

A Last Post For 2011

2011-12-28T08:11:00.013+08:00

Just in time to squeeze in a last post before the year closes.

Christmas comes, Christmas went and I had no ornament to show except those I received from HoE exchanges. Thank you so much for these exchanges. In the last Round, I stitched this Santa for my partner, Roberta Smith. I love Santa and this Round is the Stitcher's Choice. I hope Roberta loves it too!

Design: Santa by Prairie Schooler
Fabric: 28ct Opalescent Linen
Thread: DMC

In return, I received a beautiful ornament from Becky K. She knows I love Santa and sunflowers, so what better than a Santa with Sunflowers. This design is also by The Prairie Schooler. I love this ornament, thank you Becky for this great exchange.

I did managed to finish stitching Red Santa after Christmas. This ornament will be on my Christmas tree next year, ha, ha!

Design: Red Santa by BOAF
Fabric: 36ct Lakeside Linen Meadow Rue
Thread: DMC

Here is a picture of my small Christmas tree with all those ornaments I received.

I have two last finishes for 2011. First is the SAL hosted by The Thread Basket and C Mon Monde. The SAL was scheduled to be completed by Dec 14th but I only finished the stitching on Christmas Day. I enjoyed stitching this sampler, a beautiful winter scene. Thank you so much, Valarie and Virginia for this SAL.

Design: A La Belle Etoile by C Mon Monde
Fabric: 36ct Hand-dyed linen (Color close to DMC 3747)
Thread: DMC

This one is an UFO, cannot remember when I started it. I love quaker, don't know why I put it away for so long. The design is by Nathalie of Jardin Prive, she gives the choice of 3 colorways.

Design: Eiffel Quaker by Jardin Prive
Fabric: 32ct Antique White Belfast
Thread: DMC 407, 632, 950

A closer view of the Eiffel Tower!

I would like to say a big "Thank you" to everyone who visit my blog. All your comments are greatly appreciated!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Hugs,
Ellen

A RAK, Two Finishes and Another SAL

2011-11-20T17:14:00.030+08:00

It is rare to see me post twice in a month. I want to show a wonderful RAK gift from Andrea at The Craft Room. Andrea had a Christmas RAK Draw on her blog recently. She had 6 beautiful Christmas ornaments to give away. I am so lucky to be one of the winners. Here is the gorgeous ornament!

This gift came beautifully wrapped with a special Christmas card. Thank you so much Andrea, for this RAK. I will treasure them.

We had come to the end of Carol R's Mystery SAL. Here is the finale with my initial E. I will be mounting this beautiful sampler on the box in the picture. Carol gave a Bonus Chart to be stitched and finished into pincushion for the box. Thank you Carol, for a wonderful SAL. For those who miss the SAL, Carol has the design on sale on her blog - Sew A Mystery.

Next another finish to share - Christmas Eve. I love Prairie Schooler's designs and really enjoyed stitching this piece. Still not sure how I will finish this one, probably frame it.

I am very slow with the Christmas ornament stitching. Look at the Red Santa, he is still without a head. You can visit the Christmas Ornament Challenge 2011's blog to see the beautiful ornaments already posted there.

However, I managed to finish another ornament. This is a freebie by L 'R de rien in 2009. It was a fast stitch and I took away the year 09 in the design.

Design: Joyeux Noel by L 'R de rien
Fabric: 27ct PINK Meran
Thread: DMC blanc

With the end of Carol's Mystery SAL, I started another SAL hosted by The Thread Basket. The design for this SAL "A La Belle Etoile" is by French designer C Mon Monde. This is a 4-part SAL with one part per week. I am currently stitching on part two, here is a picture of part one. The fabric is actual light blue linen, close to DMC color 3747.

Designer: C Mon Monde
Fabric: 36ct hand-dyed linen
Thread: DMC

I took my mum to the 20th World Orchid Conference last week. We love flowers and I took lots of pictures. I will end with some pictures of the Orchid Show, enjoy!

Take care and keep stitching!
Hugs,
Ellen

The orchids are gorgeous, actually a very deep purple in color.

A rare species!

Super Mail and An Update on Christmas Eve

2011-11-05T17:16:00.009+08:00

I received a super package from USA. Becky sent me a box of candy tins and wooden boxes. Thank you so much, Becky, I love them. Now, I have to hunt for appropriate designs to stitch for these tins and boxes. Maybe I could use some of my completed pieces for these finishings!

Becky is a wonderful and fast stitcher. She is very creative with her finishes, visit her blog to see her gorgeous works.

I have been stitching diligently on Christmas Eve. Yes, it is definitely a Prairie Schooler's design. I had checked, the design is from Book 158. Here is my update, what is left to stitch is the band of snow at the bottom. I really love the two reindeer.

I jump on the wagon and join the Christmas Ornament Challenge 2011 hosted by Becky. This challenge started on November 1st and we are supposed to stitch Christmas ornaments for the next two months. I wonder, how many can I stitch? Please visit the blog to see the beautiful ornaments already posted there.

Here is my start of the first ornament. My theme is Santa, there are four of them in this series - Red, Green, Black and Gold.

Design: Red Santa by BOAF
Fabric: 36ct Lakeside Linen Meadow Rue
Thread: DMC

Of course, I will stitch other Christmas designs beside Santas. Knowing me, I may just be tired of Santas after the first one.

The next piece is stitched for me by my friend, Claudia. Isn't is beautiful? I love it, thank you Claudia. This will be finished into a circular cushion/pillow.

The design was lifted from The Cross Stitcher, an UK magazine. The picture did not showed the true color of the fabric, it is actually pink!

Design: Sorry I did not take note of the designer
Fabric: 27ct Pink Meran
Thread: DMC

That it for this posting. I hope to have Christmas Eve finished in my next update. And hopefully, there are Christmas ornaments to show, ha! ha!

Thank you for all your comments, they are greatly appreciated!

Hugs and keep stitching,
Ellen

Christmas Stitching And ......

2011-10-25T17:06:00.019+08:00

Time flies, it had been more than a month since I last updated my blog. What had I been doing? I was busy playing with my new toy, the Acer Iconia Tab. It is a present from my husband. I also spent my time watching Korean Drama Serial, it is very addictive.

Luckily, I manage to do some Christmas stitching in between these two pastimes. I bought this pattern locally and substituted the Aida for Linen. It is easy stitching with blocks of the same colors.

Design: Christmas Eve
Fabric: 36ct Lakeside Linen Meadow Rue
Thread: DMC

I just love the reindeer, there are two of them. Not sure who is the designer, it is not stated on the kit.

This is Part 6 of the Mystery SAL hosted by Carol R. I had just completed Part 7 and sent off a picture to Carol. The SAL is coming to an end, the final part is due early next month. Thank you, Carol, for this beautiful sampler.

Fabric: 40ct Newcastle Linen Day Gone BY
Thread: Sullivans Floss Crimson Cloves

Next, an update on the HoE Exchanges. I received a beautiful ornament from Roberta S. This is the "Words of Christmas" Round and she chose a design by Bent Creek. Roberta's stitching and finishing are perfect. Thank you, Roberta, for a wonderful exchange!

For this Round, my partner is Margaret C. This is what I stitched for her. I am so glad that Margaret loves the Ornament.

Design: Merry Christmas(so sorry, forget the designer)
Fabric: 28ct Cashel Linen
Thread: DMC

I forgot to post a picture of the ornament I stitched for Jennifer in the last round of exchange. The theme was Lizzie Kate's Christmas designs. Here is Jennifer's ornament from the Monthly Flip It Series.

Next, some small finishes. I am good at stitching but not the finishing. I procrastinate and procrastinate and procrastinate when it comes to doing the finishing!!! My box is full of stitchings to be finished one fine day.

These two are freebies by Shepherd's Bush. They are supposed to be pincushions and scissors fobs but.... maybe....one day...

This rose design was taken from the Cross Stitcher magazine. It is a teacup pincushion.

I won a blog giveaway from Cathy L (see my previous post). This chart came with fabric and threads. It is a lovely design and I enjoyed stitching it. The strawberry thread keeper is also part of the giveaway goodies.

Design: Dutch Strawberries by The Goode Huswif
Fabric: 40ct Linen
Thread: DMC

I bought this Peppermint tea from an curio shop. What attracted me is not the tea but the box. I love boxes and this one is very French! Isn't is lovely?

I hope to have more to show in my next update. Thank you for visiting my blog, your comments are greatly appreciated!

Keeping Stitching!

Hugs,
Ellen

The Winner Is.......

2011-08-25T17:25:00.004+08:00

I would like to thank everyone for joining my first Giveaway. I love reading your comments, they are greatly appreciated.

I got my younger DD to help me pick a winner. Kathy Ellen is the winner, please email me with your address so that I can send out the prize right away.

Take care and happy stitching until my next update!

Hugs,
Ellen

A Finish, An Exchange, Another Miniature and A Giveaway

2011-08-02T09:42:00.017+08:00

I finally have a finish! This Easter project was started in April, it took me 3 months to complete. I am not a one-project person, this one was only worked on whenever I am at the Crafts Shop.

Fabric: 28ct Cashel Linen
Threads: DMC

I enjoyed this project, the hares are so adorable! My friend is helping me to sew this into a cushion. Can't wait to see it?

Here is Mamen Hal Malaka part 2. I love hardanger, this is going to be a beautiful table doily. Currently I am stitching the other end of the doily which is a repeat of part 2.

My Lizzie Kate Christmas Ornament was here early, I was very surprised and happy to receive it. My partner, Marie, chose a design from LK's Tiny Tidings XII. Her stitching and finishing are perfect. I really love this ornament, thank you so much Marie for a wonderful Exchange.

Love the Red trim, isn't it pretty?

Next, my obsession, another miniature to join my collection. This sewing machine is actually part of a set, it came with a ironing board, a basket of fabrics and a box of threads(in the picture). I love it! Now, I am constantly on the lookout for another one.

This month is my 3rd blogoversary! I started blogging in August 2008 and had my first post on 1st September 2008. To celebrate, I am hosting my very first Giveaway. Here is the prize! I will be adding other goodies in the package.

The rules are very simple, just be a follower and post a comment on this post only. I will select a winner on the 23rd of August, good luck!

Thank you for visiting my blog. I love your comments, they are greatly appreciated.

Take care and happy stitching!

Hugs,
Ellen

A New HAL

2011-07-09T14:44:00.018+08:00

Mamen of Spain is hosting another HAL. This time it is a mystery table mat, so there is no picture of the finished design. Here is a picture of my part 1. I am currently working on part 2, the design is progressing beautifully.

Fabric: 32ct cream Belfast
Thread: DMC perle 8 & 12 #315 n 316

Mamen is one talented lady. Her design won first place placement in the annual award 2011 hosted by Nordic Needle. You can visit her blog and her shop to see her beautiful hardanger designs.

I finally completed the stitching for this pincushion. This was the second project from Mamen's last HAL. I intend to do a box finish for this project.

I won a blog giveaway from Cathy L. Look at all the goodies that she sent me, I just love them, especially the Beehive needle minder. Thank you, Cathy, for these wonderful gifts. I am looking forward to stitching Dutch Strawberries.

Have you seen the "Stitch An Inch" designs by Donna of By The Bay Needleart? I love them and ordered myself the Summer Pack 1 with the pendants. There are six designs with one bonus chart - the mermaid. Donna has directions on her Etsy Shop on how to finish these one-inch designs.

Here is a closeup of the pendant!

I have two small finishes to share - the limited edition of Lizzie Kate's Winter scissors fob and Shepherd Bush's My Heart.

I love the stitching but tend to procrastinate when it comes to finishing. These two smalls will go into my box to be finished one day, hopefully not too long in the future.

I have a new obsession, miniature sewing machines. I love them and start a new collection.

This one has a drawer with threads, buttons and scissors inside.

A porcelain one to join the collection!

I am still working faithfully on Susan, will post pictures soon. Thank you for visiting and commenting. I love comments, they are greatly appreciated!

I am celebrating my 3rd blogoversary soon and will be hosting my first giveaway, so please come back to join the fun.

Take care and happy stitching!

Hugs,
Ellen

An Update on Susan

2011-06-23T08:45:00.029+08:00

Susan is progressing well. I really enjoy stitching this sampler. Here are some pictures of my progress to date.

That white patch below the butterfly is the tail of the squirrel. Hope to work on this sampler regularly.

On the Exchange front, Carol had received the Snowman Ornament that I stitched for her. The design is by Patti of SamSarah Design from JCS 2007 Ornament Issue. The red fabric is what I used for the backing of the ornament. I am so glad that Carol love this ornament.

Fabric: 32ct hand-dyed Khaki Belfast
Thread: DMC

Here is another picture of the Snowman.

I received a gorgeous pin pillow from Riona. This is for the HoE PS Seasonal Exchange. My favorite season is Autumn and I really love this design that Riona chose to stitch for me. The pin pillow is filled with crushed walnut shells, it's sure is heavy. Riona's stitching and finishing are perfect. Thank you, Riona, for a wonderful exchange.

Look at the beautiful stitching and that acorn charm at the corner! I love it!

My thread pack for Brenda's Mystery Sampler finally arrived. Look at these gorgeous colors!
I am looking forward to another new start, ha, ha!

I found this lovely scissors stand while out shopping with my DD. It came with the scissors, I love it. The fob attached to the scissors is made for a friend.

Another find, a tiny wooden cup. It is supposed to be a card/message stand but I am going to make into a tiny pincushion. That stitching is another scissors fob using Caron's Wildflowers thread.

My friends and I visited the Peranakan Museum last week. I took lots of pictures. The Peranakans are people of mixed ethnic groups. The Peranakan Chinese form the biggest number of Peranakans in Southeast Asia, there are other communities of Peranakans such as Jawi Peranakan(Indian Muslim) and the Chitty Melaka(Indian).

Many beaded items owned by the Peranakans were made specially for weddings. They were mainly made with glass beads from Europe, and range widely in size and function, from slippers to table covers. Here are some pictures of the beautiful beaded slippers.

Peranakan women started to wear the kebaya from early 20th century. Fastened by brooches and worn with a sarong(skirtcloth), the kebaya is the garment most associated with the Peranakan community. I am very attracted to this special exhibition of white lace kebaya, took lots of pictures. They are machined lace but so gorgeous!

Take a closer look at these laces, they are exquisite!

Here is one kebaya that is not white!

Thank you for visiting my blog and taking time to leave comments. I really appreciate them.

Take care and Happy Stitching!

Hugs,
Ellen

A Big Project

2011-06-05T18:32:00.025+08:00

I could not resist Susan. I saw Merumo's finish of this Sampler on her blog, it is gorgeous! Found a piece of 28ct Mushroom Monoco in my stash that is big enough for this project. This is going to be a big project, finished size is 23.12 x 13.62 inches. I decided to use DMC cotton instead of the Needlepoint silk that this Sampler called for.

Design: 1839 Susan Rambo Sampler
Fabric: 28ct Mushroom Monaco
Thread: DMC cotton

Here is another picture of my start, I love these colors. Will try to work on this project regularly and post updates. I am not a one-project person.

I participate in two HoE Exchanges that are due in June. Both exchanges, the PS Seasonal Exchange and the Snowman Round Exchange, had been mailed. For the PS Seasonal Exchange, I chose to stitch for my partner a design from The Gift of Stitching. This is Marie's favorite season - Fall.

Design: From February 2008 of TGOS
Fabric: 28ct Monaco
Thread: DMC

I finished this piece into a mini wallhanging. Marie had received this exchange and I am so glad that she like it.

I received a beautiful Snowman Ornament from Erin W for Snowman Round Exchange. She stitched for me a design by Cathy Jean from the 2009 JCS Ornament Issue. She personalised the ornament with our names on the back. I love this round ornament very much. Erin's stitching and finishing are perfect. Thank you, Erin, for a lovely exchange.

Patti had a giveaway on her blog in May. Look, what I won, a needlecase and matching fob kits. Patti was stitching Just Nan's Bluebird Alphabet then and I just love it. Patti is so gracious to include this design in my wining parcel. She had finished and framed Bluebird Alphabet, so hop over to her blog to see this pretty stitching. Thank you, Patti, for the lovely kits and Just Nan's chart.

Here is a close up picture of Bluebird Alphabet!

This next picture should be familiar to most stitchers. It is Tulip House Stitching Companion from BBD's A Stitcher's Journey.

I got the box from Myra. She painted it, isn't it beautiful? This project is on top of my "To Do List". I had stitched the Tulip Pincushion, just need to finish it. See my earlier post.

Thank you for all the lovely comments, they are greatly appreciated. I will leave you with pictures of a sumptuous High Tea at Regent Hotel. It was a Mother's Day treat for me!

Take care and Happy Stitching!

Hugs,
Ellen

Mary Glover

2011-05-23T06:54:00.011+08:00

I finally completed this SAL hosted by Emmanuelle. The Rice Stitch panel is beautiful but it took me a long time to finish it. Have a look at this panel, I love it.

Here is a picture of the sampler. I just love these colors! I had enjoyed stitching this sampler very much. Thank you, Emmanuelle for hosting this SAL.

Fabric: 32ct Vintage Mocha Belfast
Threads: DMC

Remember this hardanger scissors case on my last post? I stitched a scissors fob to match it. The thread is hand dyed Minnamurra Perle 8 from Australia.

The other side of the fob

Look at this beautiful needlebook gifted to me. My friend is great with tatting and she decorated this felt needlebook with her gorgeous tatting lace. Thank you, Jessica and Kristine.

Another scissors fob in green to match this needlebook!

I stitched another design from JCS magazine. This is an easy and fun stitch. It is supposed to be a pincushion but I am going to finish it as a needlebook. I do not want a big pincushion, it is 8 inches long.

Design: Bloom by M Designs
Fabric: 28ct Cashel Linen
Threads: DMC

I have been stitching for HoE exchanges, no pictures until they are received by my partners.

This month's post is short, hope to have more to show next month. Thank you for your visits and comments, they are greatly appreciated!

Take care and happy stitching!

Hugs,
Ellen

Easter SAL Completed

2011-04-28T08:33:00.013+08:00

The Easter SAL had came to an end with the final part 8. I actually completed the stitching before Easter but has no clue how to finish it. Finishing has never been my forte, so this beautiful piece went into the box to join many others.

I enjoyed this fun and colorful SAL. Thank you so much, Carole, for sharing this beautiful design. You can visit Carole's blog to see the gorgeous finishes by other stitchers.

This one is not done yet! I still need to put in more daisies, about 7 more. Love these hares, aren't they cute?

I stitched another Spring's design -"Nid sous les Fleurs". This is a freebie by Cathy R of Les Chalet des Perelles. I love these blue birds beneath the flowers.

Designer: Cathy R
Fabric: Edinburgh 36ct Flax

Thread: DMC

Here is another finish to show. This kit is a collaboration by Nina, Babi and Hababann. Please visit Nina's blog if you are interested in this kit.

Designer: Babi's Treasures
Fabric: 40ct Linen stitched 1 over 1
Nina's Thread: Copper

I managed to complete the finishing for this project. This is my first hornbook. I am very pleased with the finishing even though it is not perfect.

I participated in the HoE Christmas Ornament Exchange - Quaker Round. This is the ornament that I stitched for Edgar, my partner. The design is by Ellen Chester from JCS 2006 Ornament Issue.

Designer: Ellen Chester
Fabric: 32ct Vintage Mocha Belfast
Thread: DMC

In return, I received a gorgeous ornament from Gaby all the way from Germany. I love it very much. The design is from The Gift of Stitching and stitched in my favorite color, Red. Gaby also sent me a French chart by Emmanuelle Carre Briand.

Look at the detailed stitching and the beaded edging! Gaby's stitching and finishing are perfect. Thank you, Gaby, for a lovely exchange.

Edgar is celebrating his 4th Blogoversary with a giveaway. Please visit his blog to celebrate with him!

Thank you for visiting and taking time to leave comments. They are greatly appreciated!

Take care and happy stitching!

Hugs,
Ellen

It's Spring, it's Easter

2011-04-12T20:13:00.016+08:00

I have Spring fever, all my stitching this month are Spring/Easter related.

First, an update of the Easter SAL hosted by Carol. We are almost at the end of this SAL, only one final part to go. I really enjoy this SAL, love these chicks and bunnies.

As promised in my last post, here is my chicky pincushion. I love this finishing.

More bunnies, I could not resist them. I fell in love with this bunny family when I saw it on Danybrod's blog. I will finish this in the same style as Dany's, visit her blog for more bunnies/Easter designs.

Promenade en famille by Danybrod
Fabric: 36ct Lambswool
Threads: DMC

Yes, you are seeing more bunnies or hares! This design is from Cross Stitch Collection Issue 195 entitled "March Hares". I love these hares frolicking and boxing among the daisies.

Designer: Lesley Teare
Fabric: 28ct green Cashel Linen
Threads: DMC

Here is a picture of this design made into a cushion. Isn't it gorgeous?

My next project is also from a cross stitch magazine "Just Cross Stitch". This is a seasonal sampler which will be presented over four issues. I intend to stitch all four seasons and finish it as a bellpull. This design is very colorful and employs some specialty stitches. For Spring, there are long arm cross stitch, eyelets, smyrna cross stitch, rice stitch and satin stitch. The verse is stitch over one thread.

Designer: Sally Hesketh
Fabrid: 32ct cream Belfast
Threads: DMC

I love these colorful alphabets!

Thank you for your visits and comments, they are greatly appreciated.

I will leave you with pictures of a Hardanger Scissors Case I made. It is the right size for a pair of 3 1/2" scissors.

Take care and happy stitching!

Hugs,
Ellen

SALs

2011-03-27T15:38:00.019+08:00

Edited: Notice the background of my blog? These are the beautiful hand-dyed threads from Nina.

I had changed the layout of my blog. With the help of my daughter, I managed to add a few new gadgets. Hopefully, I will be able to manage my blog better now. I am still playing around with the layout, you may see changes in the next few posts.

I love SALs, got myself involved in a few, cross stitch and hardanger.

An update on the Mary Glover SAL hosted by Emmanuelle. I am currently working on part 5 of the SAL with alphabets over one thread and some satin stitches. Here are pictures of part 3 and 4. The over one thread verse in green took me a while to stitch. I enjoy stitching this sampler, love the colors.

I join another SAL hosted by Carol. The theme of this SAL is Easter with spring colors, chicks and bunnies. Here are some pictures of the various parts.

Notice the difference in the fabrics in part 1 and part 2? I restitched the SAL on 36ct lambswool linen. The first piece was on 32ct Vintage Mocha Belfast and I intend to make this into a long pincushion. Will show a picture in my next post.

We are presently at part 5 of the SAL. Love this SAL, the stitching is fun & quick and each part can be made into stitching smalls. Some of the stitchers have done that, you can see pictures on Carol's blog.

I am way behind in my hardanger SALs. Got distracted by so many beautiful things along the way, there are so many things I want to stitch. Hope to catch up and have pictures to show by the next post.

I do have two other small finishes to show beside the SALs. Love flowers and could not resist stitching this Magnolia from Issue 194 of Cross Stitch Collection (an UK magazine).

The paper roses in the pictures were made by my DD. She loves crafts.

Received my copy of BBD's "A Stitcher's Journal" and stitched this tiny Tulip Pincushion. I used DMC threads on 32ct Sand Belfast. The colors are very light(muted). I have yet to sew it into a pincushion, still looking for that perfect button/charm.

This Reindeer Ornament was stitched for me by Amy for HoE, the Reindeer Round. The design is a freebie by The Sampler Girl. Thank you, Amy, for this beautiful ornament.

Still working on my Quaker and Quilts, hope to have pictures to show next time. Thank you for visiting my blog. All comments are greatly appreciated.

Take Care and Happy Stitching!

Hugs,
Ellen

Finally .......An Update

2011-02-19T14:09:00.033+08:00

It is almost the end of February and high time for my monthly post.

Firstly, an update on an UFO. Remember this? It was my new year start last year and became an UFO along the way. I am determined to finish it this year.

Design: Quaker & Quilts by Rosewood Manor
Fabric: 40 count cream linen
Threads: Valdani threads

Recently, I join an SAL hosted by Emmanuelle. She is offering an Reproduction Sampler "Mary Glover" as the SAL design. I love this sampler and cannot resist starting another new project. Here I am at part 2 of the SAL. Thank you, Emmanuelle, for this lovely SAL.

Design: Mary Glover by Emmanuelle
Fabric: 32ct Vintage Mocha Belfast
Threads: DMC

Here is a picture of the original Sampler. Isn't it lovely?

On the Hardanger SAL hosted by Mamen, we are now stitching the second item of the Decorative Set. Here is my progress, it is going to be a pincushion mounted on a box. For picture of this Decorative Set, please see my previous post. I am very slow with this second item, got distracted along the way. Mamen already posted the finishing of this pincushion.

This month, I also have a couple of small finishes to show. I had stitched my first Christmas ornament for the year, FA LA LA by LHN. It is stitched on 32ct sand Belfast, the picture did not show the true color of the fabric. Notice, I have not put on the beads?

Another small finish. This is the second contest design by Niky. As usual, I was late for the contest. I completed the stitching but not the finishing. I wanted to make this piece into a needlebook.

I joined the HoE Christmas Ornaments, The Reindeer Round and this was what I stitched for Joke, my partner. This design is by Tonia of Oakhaven Designs. Her designs are cute and quick to stitch.

Late last year, I won two giveaways. I was the winner of Sally's Blogoversary Giveaway. Look at this Beauty that she stitched for me!

This pinkeep is a LHN's design. Look at the trim and charm, they are so beautiful. Thank you so much, Sally, for this gift. It's gorgeous and I will treasure it.

The pinkeep is now residing together with my other beauties!

The other giveaway that I won was this JCS magazine from Gracie. She had a double copy of this issue and graciously give it away. Thank you, Gracie, for this magazine. There are two lovely samplers in the magazine that I am looking forward to stitching.

The two samplers are Winter Wind Sampler by Paulette of Plum Street Samplers and Winter at Beacon House by Pam n Susan of Praiseworthy Stitches.

Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate all your comments, they make my day.

Finally, I leave you with pictures of the Annual Flower Show that I visited with my mum. This year being the Year of the Rabbit (Chinese zodiac sign) , there are rabbits made of flowers on display.

Take care and Happy Stitching!

Hugs,
Ellen

First post of 2011

2011-01-04T08:23:00.027+08:00

As usual, I am late in my posting. I hope everyone had a lovely New Year and is having a wonderful start to 2011. I notice many stitchers are having fun with their Crazy January 2011 Challenge.

I had lots of stitching time during the new year's holiday and here is my first finish for 2011.

Design: Lo, How A Rose Sampler
Designer: BrightNeedle
Fabric: 32ct unknown
Thread: DMC

This project was support to be my last finish for 2010 but as usual I did not meet my dateline. I put in the last stitches only on the 2nd day of 2011. I love this sampler and enjoyed stitching it.

In 2010, I join two hardanger SALs hosted by Mamen. She stitches beautifully, her works are gorgeous, please visit her blog.

The first SAL is a paperroll holder.

Isn't it beautiful? We are already at part 6 of this SAL. Here are some pictures of my progress.
I stitch this project on 28ct light grey Cashel linen using white DMC perle 8 and 12.

The next SAL is a Decorative Set comprising of a bookmark, a pincushion and a tray.

The first item is done, here is my bookmark. Stitched on 32ct ivory Belfast linen using DMC 3041 and 3042 perle cotton.

I also stitched a few hardanger angels, one of which is another SAL hosted by Marcelle.

These other angels are from different hardanger books/magazines.

Sorry, Melissa, I forgot to post the HoE Halloween Exchange received from you. Thank you for this beauty, it's a scissors fob/ornamental needlebook by Just Nan.

I won this beautiful crochet pincushion from Judy. She hosted this giveaway on her blog. I requested for some real acorns and Judy was so gracious to send some to me. Thank you so much, Judy, for the pincushion and the acorns.

On the first day of 2011, I started a new project, the Red House Sampler by Brenda Keyes. I hope to show you some pictures soon. This year, I am determined to finish some of my wips/ufos. Hopefully, I will not start too many new projects along the way.

Thank you, friends, for continuing to visit my blog. Love all your comments!

Take care and happy stitching!

Hugs,
Ellen

Pincushons

2010-10-12T10:24:00.004+08:00

As usual, I am late in my posting. I had been busy making pincushions. It's fun to stitch and finish small projects. Look at the tray, I have 6 pincushions to show.

This one is actually a humbug Christmas ornament. The design is by Yvette Stanton from Issue 23 of The Gift of Stitching. I stitched it on 32ct Belfast using DMC Perle Cotton 8. Beads were added to 3 corners of the humbug as tassels.

I have seen many of this style of pincushion in bloggerland and decided to make one for myself. The chart is found in JCS Christmas Ornament Preview Issue, designed by Lori of La-D-Da. Again, I stitched on 32ct belfast linen. This time I using hand-dyed threads(Crimson Fire) from Nina.

This design should be familiar to many of you, it is from Blackbird Designs - Honeysuckle Manor. The base of this pincushion is crocheted by my friend Maria. The tiny pincushion is from Japan, a gift from my quilting teacher.

I stitched this piece some time ago. It is a freebie but sorry I had lost the source. The backing for this cushion is linen fabric, check in front and polka dot at the back. Sorry, I forgot to take a picture of the back.

Now, to show some Halloween stitchings. The first one is a freebie by Homespun Elegance. I stitched it on 36ct greyish blue linen and finished it as a long pillow. Love this style of pin pillow.
The next design is by Tonia of Oakhaven Designs. It is also a freebie. I really love the pumpkin fabric used for the pincushion.

Ok, this one didi not made it to the tray, I just finished it. This is another freebie by Sylvia. DMC colors used - 597 and 938. I have not find suitable buttons for this pincushion yet.

This one is definitely not made by you. I bought this beauty at a flea market. I really love that bear sitting on top of the stitcher's box. I want to learn how to make this. Maybe, I can bring it to my Cartonage Teacher and she can figure out how to do it.

Did I stitch anything besides pincushions? Yes, I did but not much. Here is a little progress on Lo, How a Rose sampler. I love the colors palette for this sampler. Hope to make more progress this month.

Next, is a picture of what I gave my friend for her birthday. The stitching is a design by LHN. "Joyful and Caring" describes my friend perfectly. I left the finishing to her, she is also a stitcher.

I hope to have more progress reports on my wips in my next posting. Thank you for visiting my blog. All comments are welcomed and appreciated.

Happy Stitching and Take Care!

Hugs,
Ellen

Simple Joys

2010-09-11T10:52:00.022+08:00

This is Simple Joys by LHN. I finished the stitching but yet to decide on the finishing. The colors are really lovely especially WDW Raspberry and CC Plum Paisley. I really love the red color, it's so rich. What are the simple joys of your life? I was reflecting on this while stitching this piece.
My family, my friends, stitching, reading, coffee and dark chocolate, these are the simple joys of my life.

Is this design familiar with you? You must have seen it many times in bloggerland. Yes, it is Lo, How a Rose Sampler. I took over the project from another stitcher. It is stitched on some hand dyed linen using DMC threads. I have been wanting to stitch this design for a long time. Here is another close up picture of the wip.

Next, an update on my OakHaven Designs Months SAL. I fell behind in my stitching, just managed to catch up at the end of August. I stitched June, July and August in one week as I was determined to get it done. I just got the chart for September, the month is getting longer.

I wanted to participate in Niky's contest. I got the chart from her and finish the stitching. As you can see, I did not made it to the dateline of Sept 6th. I have yet to do the finishing, maybe a pincushion. I changed the color of the bird to blue (DMC 926) and put my initial in place of the key.

Here are some exchanges I received, took me too long to post these pictures.

I participated in Swap 4 hosted by Nina. My partner, Ronel, stitched for me a beautiful Stitcher Book. Ronel is from South Africa, look at those stamps and the postcard. Her stitching and finishing are perfect, I really love this Book. Thank you, Ronel, for a lovely exchange.

I received this gorgeous mattress pincushion from Melissa for the "For the Birds Exchange". The design is from PS Prairie Year II and stitched on 32ct Ivory linen. Look at the side of the pincushion, Melissa stitched a phrase from the poem "Nest Eggs" by Robert Louis Stevenson.

Thank you, Missy Ann, for the pincushion and the poem. I love them.

Currently, I am stitching for exchanges. I plan to start new projects, there are so many designs I wanted to stitch and so little time.

Thank you, my friends, for visiting my blog and your lovely comments. All comments are greatly appreciated.

Happy Stitching and take care!

Hugs,
Ellen

Seasonal Houses

2010-08-05T19:35:00.026+08:00

Tonia of OakHaven Designs hosts a Seasonal House SAL for members. These designs are small, fun and quick to stitch. I stitched mine individually, to be finished into scissors fobs. Designs were stitched on 32ct Belfast using DMC threads. I had to change the fabric for Winter House because the white house did not show on the Belfast linen. Thank you, Tonia, for this fun SAL. I really enjoyed the stitching.

I joined HoE For The Birds Exchange recently. We can stitch any design as long as there is a bird in it. I chose a freebie by Carole D. Love this design, I had stitched it twice. Design was stitched on 28ct Cashel linen using DMC 335 and 3021. I am so glad that my partner, Lisa S, loves the pin cushion. The picture of the pin cushion was taken by Lisa.

The next picture is an update of my Eiffel Quaker. I am almost halfway with the stitching, really love the colors I have chosen. This design is by Nathalie of Jardin Prive.

I love French designs. The two designs below are charted by Dany of Danybrod. Both designs are for pincushions, one round and one square. The square one is only half done, don't you love the colors?

I had started another small project, "Simple Joys" by LHN. This design calls for crescent colors and WDW threads, very pretty colors. This should be pretty quick stitch, I hope to finish it soon.

August the 9th is Singapore's National Day. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SINGAPORE!

Thank you for visiting my blog. All comments are appreciated.

Happy stitching and take care!

Hugs,
Ellen

Flowers Show And Some Small Finishes

2010-07-19T07:40:00.021+08:00

I took my mum to the Flowers Show last week. Here are some pictures.

I have not been stitching much since my last post. There is not much progress on my big wips, I had been stitching for exchanges and smalls.
I was in a Swap hosted by Nina. This is what I stitched for my partner Su. Picture was taken by

Su, she is very good with photography. She also stitches beautifully.

The theme for this exchange is French designs. I stitched for her a freebie by Les petites croix de Christine and finished into a pin pillow. Design was stitched on 32ct Belfast linen using DMC threads. Using the same backing fabric for the big cushion, I made her another smaller pin cushion. I was very happy that Su likes these cushions together with the goodies I sent her.

I love this scissors case when I saw it in blogland. I stitched it on 32ct Belfast linen using Nina's thread, Cherry Coffee. The chart came with a skein of turquoise silk but I decided to try Nina's hand-dyed threads. Lovely colors, please visit Nina's blog to see her beautiful hand-dyed threads.

Stitching is done but I have yet to do the finishing, hope to get it done soon.

I stitched another small, this it is designated for my next box topping. It's a freebie by Liselotte. Again, I stitched it on 32ct Belfast linen using DMC variations 4025.

Another small was stitched and finished into a pin cushion but I cannot show yet because it is for another Exchange. Will post when my partner receives it.

Here are pictures of progress on my Spring Quaker SAL. Very slow progress, I am only on page 5.

The SAL is currently on page 14. I have a long way to go to catch up.

Thank you for your visits and comments.

Happy stitching and take care!

Hugs,
Ellen

My First Round Box and Two Finishes

2010-06-12T16:41:00.020+08:00

It is a month since I last posted. I have two finishes and lots to share.

Here is my first round box. I started with a small one. It was hard work making a round box, it took me about 6 hours to make this one. I am pleased with it and this will not be the only one. The angel is a freebie, sorry I lost the link to the site where I found the design. It was stitched on 28ct evenweave hand-dyed by Joan of Sapphire Stitching.

I have two finishes to show, one cross stitch and one hardanger. The hardanger doily was a design taken from Hardanger Craft Journal. I stitched it on 28ct Bluish Grey Monoco. This doily showcased the lacy edge, a more delicate and prettier edging than the normal buttonhole edging.

I really love this cross stitched piece titled A Fleur De SAL. This design was a SAL hosted by Valerie of Talons Aiguilles in 2009. I missed the SAL last year. I wrote to Valerie because I really wanted to stitch it. She was so kind to send me the charts, thank you, Valerie. I have not decided on the finish yet, maybe another box?

Stitched on 32ct Belfast Linen using DMC 469, 470, 3687 and 3689

As promised in my last post, here is a picture of my wip - Spring Quaker SAL. I am way behind, still on page 3. The current SAL status is page 9. I am stitching this piece on 36ct Cream Edinburg linen. I have changed some of the colors, using various shades of green instead of one solid DMC 987 for the whole design. I am loving the progress of this SAL.

On the Exchange Front, I had sent and received my exchanges for the Summer Exchange hosted by Becky SC. Here is what I stitched for my partner, Conny. Pictures were taken by Conny, she is a better photographer than me. I stitched "Spot of Summer " by the The Drawn Thread and finished it into a pin pillow.

Sorry, Conny, I stole your pictures.

For the same Exchange, my partner Raffaella stitched this pillow for me. It is BBD's Summer Iris. I love it, it was 100% handmade and truly a labor of love by Raffaella. She also sent some goodies - a chart from my wish list, DMC threads for this chart and two spools of trims. I love them. Thank you, Raffaella, for a lovely exchange. Raffaella does not have a blog.

In the Early Christmas Exchange hosted by HoE, these ornaments were what I sent and received from the partners. I stitched this red ornament for Amy. The design is a freebie by Claire of Gazette94.

I received this BBD's ornament from Cindy, can't wait to hang it on my Christmas Tree. Thank you, Cindy, for this lovely ornament. BBD is one of my favorite designers.

Thank you, friends, for visiting my blog. All comments are welcomed and appreciated.

Happy stitching and take care until the next post!

Hugs,

Ellen

Happy Dance and Update

2010-05-13T08:41:00.024+08:00

After 14 months of stitching, I finally reached the finished line. Here is my Beatrix Potter Quaker Sampler. It is stitched on 32ct Belfast Linen using DMC variation 4210. I had personalised this sampler with the family names. I enjoyed stitching this sampler, thanks to Hazel for hosting this SAL. The blog posting each month urged and encouraged me to stitch on this sampler every month. Every stitch counts, no matter how small a progress I had made month after month.

I had won a giveaway gift from Dovile of Lithuania. She has a beautiful blog and she stitches beautifully. Have a look at this gift!

Dovile stitched pansies and finished them into a sketch book. I love it and will treasure it. Thank you, Dovile, for this beautiful book and the goodies.

Next, I want to show you this gorgeous cushion cover I received from Bernadette. This is the HoE LHN/CCN Exchange. She stitched LHN Needlework and finished it into a cushion cover. Her stitching and finishing are perfect. I really love the fabrics she used for the cushion.

This picture show the details of her stitching, isn't it beautiful?

Remember in my last post, I mentioned that I had started another two new Quaker projects. Here are the two pictures of what I am stitching, the Contest Sampler and the Spring Quaker Sampler. Both Samplers are designed by Martina of Wiehenburg Samplers.

I have started on the Contest Sampler. My color scheme for this sampler is chocolate and turquoise. I stitch it on 36ct linen using DMC 598,938, 3809, 3910 and 4030. I have decided to start the Spring Quaker again, didn't like the green I used. Will show picture of progress in my next post.

Here is May's update of my Oakhaven Month SAL. We are almost half way through this SAL and I am loving it. This is a quick and fun SAL.

More boxes to show you. The stitched pieces are Love Grows by Oakhaven Designs and a Freebie by Blackbird Designs. I had stitched them some time ago but had just finished them as boxes. This is a lovely way to showcase my stitching. I am still having cartonage lessons, next project will be a round box. I love the fabrics that my teacher provided for the boxes.

This is quite a long post. I will end here and save the rest for my next update. Thank you for visiting my blog. All comments are welcomed and appreciated.

Happy stitching and take care!

Hugs,
Ellen

Another Beauty Received

2010-04-19T11:17:00.010+08:00

Look at this beauty I received from Melanie. This is the pin cushion she stitched for me for the Pin Pillow Exchange hosted by Becky SC. I love this design, it's Happy Heart Day by the Trilogy. This pin cushion is bigger than the conventional ones but I love it. Thank you, Melanie for this beauty, I will treasure it.

This picture showed the detailed stitching, it's beautiful.

A quick update on the Oakhaven Designs' SAL. April was a quick and fun stitch. The SAL is coming along very nicely.

I started on another two Quaker projects. What did I tell you, I am crazy about Quaker designs, lol. The first one is the Contest Stitching hosted by the Wiehenburg Samplers Group. You have to be a member in order to join this Contest. The Contest chart is designed by Martina. The second project is the Spring Quaker SAL. This sampler is also designed by Martina. You will have to pay 11 Euros for the chart. This is a big sampler and the SAL will stretched over many weeks with a part per week. I will update with pictures in my next post.

Thank you, friends, for taking the time to comment on my blog. All comments are welcomed and mean a lot to me.

Take care and happy stitching until the next update!

Hugs,
Ellen

A Beauty Arrived From Australia

2010-04-09T08:50:00.017+08:00

I won a RAK Giveaway prize recently from Lisa V . Look what she stitched for me, a gorgeous pinkeep. The design is a freebie from Textile Collection and the colors are great. Lisa's stitching and finishing are perfect. Thank you so much for the Gift, Lisa. I love it and will treasure it. Now I will let the pictures speak for itself.

An update on my Hardanger SAL, I had completed part three. Isn't it lovely? I love the white on the brown/raw Cashel Linen.

Here is a picture of the Bag that we are stitching for this SAL.

I had done the second ornament for the LHN Monthly Ornament SAL. It's the Pear Tree, the 2nd Ornament of the year.

The finishing line is in sight after more than a year of stitching. I have three more motifs and some personalization to go. Please pardon the wrinkles, I did not iron this piece before I took the picture. I am so happy to have this completed soon so that I can start another project. Another quaker? Maybe, lol.

Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciated and valued all your comments.

Happy stitching and take care till the next update.

Hugs,
Ellen

Another Box and Some Finishes

2010-03-23T16:37:00.023+08:00

**Edited** I have received an award. Thank you very much, Mbroider, for giving me this Sunshine Award. Rule of this Award is to pass on the award to 12 bloggers. I have a hard time as there are so many blogs that I read, love and admire. So, I am passing this Award to all beautiful and creative bloggers out there!

I am obsessed with boxes, here is another one on show. The stitching (LHN Chocolate Box) was done some time ago and I had just finished it as a box during my cartonage lessons. I love the fabrics used for this box. The box was lined with strip green fabric inside. It was tricky to get the fabric properly aligned.

Next, some finishes to share. Remember the BBD Loose Feathers Pattern I started in September last year? Happy dance, Autumn Song is done. I stitched it on 32ct Lambswool using Cosmo, DMC and Anchor varigated threads. This is going to be another box, lol, but a round one this time.

I am way behind in the LHN Monthly Ornament SAL. Got my charts late and only started stitching early this month. I decided to start with March's ornament - He's A Flake. It was stitched on 28ct Cashel Green Linen using DMC threads as charted except for the tree (DMC 4045). Pear Tree will be the next ornament.

Look at this cute pin pillow! I stitched it for my partner, Lillie, for the Pin Pillow Exchange hosted by Becky SC. The design is a freebie - Winter ABC - by Vavi. I used Cosmo Marble Thread. You can't see it in the picture but the pillow was lined with pretty white and turquoise trim which matched the color of the thread.

As promised in my last post, here is a picture of my new Quaker start - Eiffel Quaker. This design is the creation of Nathalie of Jardin Prive. She gives 3 colorways for this design. I chose the Bois de Rose : DMC 407, 632 and 950. Now, I have 4 Quaker projects in rotation.

Next, an update on my various SALs. I had finished stitching the second instalment of Joei's SAL - Her Flower Garden- Orchid. I am stitching the six instalments individually. They will be finished as stitching accessories at the end of the SAL. Just started on the third instalment - Lavender. This time, I am stitching one over one as I want the design to be small for a scissors fob.

A picture of Oakhaven Design's Months SAL 2010. March was a real quick stitch with only five alphabets. The design is looking very lovely, love all those red hearts.

I join another Hardanger SAL hosted by Mamen Arias. She is Spanish. Here is a picture of my wip, parts 1 and 2. It will be finished into a bag.

Thank you for visiting my blog. All comments are welcomed and appreciated.

Happy stitching and take care until the next update.

Hugs,
Ellen

Many Things To Share

2010-02-27T10:59:00.024+08:00

It's time for another update. I have many things to share.

A present arrived from Holland. Mylene sent me a mattress pincushion. Look how beautiful the pincushion is, her stitching and finishing are perfect. It's a PS design. Thank you, Mylene, for granting my wish.

Natasha had received my HoE LHN/CCN Exchange. I stitched for her a LHN design from the "Something Old and Something New" series. The stitched piece was mounted on a fabric box. I am currently taking cartonage lessons from a Japanese teacher. Here are some pictures of the box.

Here is another of my fabric box. The design is a freebie from Carol R. I am now addicted to making fabric boxes. Box finishes is the new technique to showcase my cross stitch.

Next on the show is my hardanger doily. I joined a Hardanger SAL on a French Board. The SAL was organised and designed by Ticoeur. The design is so beautiful and I really enjoyed stitching this doily. I stitched it on 32ct Sand Belfast using white DMC perle 8 and 12. Thank you, Ticoeur, for organised this SAL.

I received my Valentine Exchange from Ellen Sharp. She stitched for me a lovely pin pillow. It's a HIH design and beautifully stitched. I love it. Ellen also sent me some goodies. Thank you, Ellen, for a lovely exchange.

An update on my OakHaven Group's SAL. I had finished stitching February, it was quick and fun.

I did not take a picture of my Eiffel Quaker as promised. Hopefully, you will have a view of it together with my other Quaker updates in my next post.

Thank you, friends, for visiting my blog. I love and appreciate all your comments.

Happy stitching and take care till the next update,

Ellen

Updates and some small finishes

2010-02-05T17:43:00.018+08:00

It's February and time for some updates. I wanted to post more regularly but some things always get in the way (is that a excuse for being lazy, lol).

Here are some updates on my quaker projects, Quakers & Quilts(Q &Q) and Beatrix Potter(BP). BP is a year old. I try to work on it every month. My goal is to finish it by this year, I have eight more motifs to go. I am enjoying Q&Q, it stitched on 40ct linen using one thread. I ready love quaker designs and actually started another quaker project, Jardin Prive's Eiffel Quaker. I promise some pictures in my next post.

In between the big projects, I had been stitching for exchanges and quick pieces. In the Holidays Exchange, I stitched for Cindy Mae two heart designs and finished them as a biscornu. These are freebies but I cannot the source, sorry. I included some goodies with this exchange, go to Cindy Mae's blog for more pictures.

Here are more biscornus. You can tell that I love making biscornus, lol.

The blue one is a freebie from Victoria Sampler. I modified the chart to add webbed roses. The hardanger biscornu's chart is found in the magazine - New Stitches. There are 4 designs to choose from.

I currently joint two SALs. I am now stitching Joei's Her Flower Garden Block 2, will post picture soon. The other SAL is the Month SAL 2010 on Oakhaven Designs' group. Here is a picture of January. This is a quick and fun SAL.

I love boxes and tins. Currently, I am taking cartonage lessons from a Japanese teacher. These are my project works so far, a photo frame, a spectacle box and a small green box. In the near future, I want to incorporate my cross stitch into this finishing technique. Look out for the next update, more fabric boxes to come.

Thank you, friends, for visiting my blog. I love all your comments. I will be away for a few days during the Chinese New Year period. For those who celebrate - Happy Chinese New Year!

And Happy Valentine to everyone! (February 14th happens to be the first day of Chinese New Year).

Take care and happy stitching till the next update.

Hugs,
Ellen

A New Year, A New Start

2010-01-03T11:36:00.005+08:00

I just cannot resist a new start. I saw this design being stitched in blogland and fell in love with it. Here is my progress so far.

I am stitching this sampler over 2 on 40ct Newcastle linen using Valdani threads as charted. So far, I am enjoying stitching on 40ct.

Here are my stitching resolutions for this year:

1) to complete my three big wips started last year, namely, Christmas Quaker, Beatrix and LK monthly blocks

2) to stitch LHN monthly ornaments,

3) to be timely on Joei's Her Flower Garden SAL, which started in Dec 2009

Joei's SAL consists of six designs, one each month starting from December 2009. I have chosen to stitch the designs individually instead of a sampler. They will be finished later into stitching accessories. Here is a picture of my first instalment - Rose.

Please visit Joei's blog to see the same design stitched on different fabrics. They are all beautifully stitched.

Thank you for visiting my blog. I love and appreciate all the comments in 2009. Looking forward to more visitors in 2010.

Hope everyone had a Happy New Year and all the best in 2010!

Hugs,
Ellen

Another Update on Beatrix

2009-11-27T12:15:00.011+08:00

Time flies, it's more than a month since I last posted. I had been busy working on Beatrix, managed to stitch quite a few motifs for the month of November. Here is a picture of my progress so far.
Hope to work on it more in December. I am not sure how much stitching time I have in December as it's the holiday seasons. I am also going away for holiday - a few days in Penang.

Beside working on Beatrix, I managed a few small finishes. These are freebies from Tonia of Oakhaven Designs. Thank you, Tonia, for the freebies. I finished one into a scissors fob and the

other is supposed to be a needlebook to be.

Here is what I stitched for my partner, Suzanne, for the HoE Halloween Exchange. Sorry, Suzanne, I forgot to post this.
This design is by Prairie Schooler in last year Premier Issue of JCS Halloween.

I join a Hardanger SAL on a French Forum. I just love this design, here is the progress so far. Sorry for the poor picture. It's actually very pretty and delicate. I stitch it on 32ct sand linen using DMC perle B5200.

I celebrated my birthday on the 19th. This year is special, I had many parcels from overseas, these are gifts from some of the Birthday Club members. Take a look!

Thank you, ladies, for all the goodies. I love them all and I am already thinking of projects to use them.

I had a yummy oreo cheesecake for my birthday. My family gave me a dinner treat at a Taiwan Restaurant and more money for my stash. Thank you for a great birthday.

Happy Thanksgiving to all my friends!

Happy stitching until the next update,

Ellen

Finished an UFO and Working on Another

2009-10-12T08:16:00.019+08:00

Happy dance! I had finished an UFO. This is the Table Runner I showed in my last post.

Another finish? I wish. This is another UFO that was put in cold storage for a couple of years. I am determined to work on this Table Cloth and get it finished this year. With the encouragement of my finished Table Runner, I am sure I can do it.

I love the cross stitch. There are many more squares to stitch.

I have the work cut out for me, the big unfinished portion. Think I can finish it by this year?

Here is my Sew Red. I stitched it on 32ct Belfast linen using CC Apple Fritters. I just love red. The finished piece measured about 5.3 inches square, it is too big for a pinkeep. I am still not sure how I will finished this beautiful sampler.

As I mentioned in my last post, this sampler is designed by Carol R. Go visit her blog and see all her beautiful works. She has designed another wonderful sampler, Sew Autumn. I am all ready to stitch Sew Autumn, this time on 40ct linen. If you want a copy of the chart, please visit her blog. Thank you, Carol, for your wonderful samplers.

On the Exchange front, here are pictures of the needlebook I stitched for Joan for the Needlebook Swap on the Sapphire Stitching Board. Joan like Fall theme and I chose this design by Plum Pudding Needleart. This is a freebie titled Lookin' Like Fall. I stitched Joan's initial on the back.

The finished needlebook has pockets inside for packet of needles, threads and scissors. I am so happy that Joan love this needlebook.

On the HoE Halloween Exchange, I received these beauties from Mary Jo. The design is Spooky Sheep by Shepherd's Bush. The stitching was beautifully done over 2 for the needlebook and over 1 for the scissors fob. I love them.

Mary also sent me some goodies, a chart from LK(one of my favourite designers) and some lovely GAST and Week Dye threads. These threads are not available in Singapore. Don't you love the Pumpkin Gift Paper? Thank you, Mary, for a lovely exchange.

Currently, I am stitching on Beautrix and BBD Autumn Song. I am all ready for Sew Autumn as well. I love Autumn, so this would be a lovely stitch. I am looking forward to my birthday next month. We are planning on lunch plus a karoake session.

Happy stitching until the next update!

Hugs,
Ellen

Wonderful Exchanges and Two New Starts

2009-09-26T15:06:00.018+08:00

I love exchanges. Often, I have to remind myself not to over stretch and commit to too many exchanges. It is a pleasure to stitch for others and a double pleasure to receive from others. I have two wonderful exchanges to share.

I joined Swap II hosted by Nina. The theme for this exchange was Autumn. My partner, Julie, stitched for me a design by LHN(one of my favorite designers) and finished it into a box. I love boxes of all shapes and sizes. Julie answered my wish and sent me a box. Here is a picture of the lovely box.

The stitching was done beautifully 1 over 1. Julie also made me a tiny initial scissor fob. She included threads and lots of chocolate for me and my children. Thank you, Julie, for a lovely exchange.

I have joined Nina for the 3rd round of Swap, the theme this time is Christmas. Nina is Hungarian so most of the exchange participants are Hungarians. I am getting ready to stitch for my partner.

Another exchange received was from Clare H. This is the By The Sea Exchange hosted by HoE. Clare made me a lovely pinkeep. I am not sure where the design comes from but it was beautifully stitched on coloured linen. Clare also sent me a chart by Victoria Sampler (another of my favorite designers), some threads, buttons and fabric.

I cannot resist starting new projects. I visit Nina's blog very often. She is a talented lady, visit her blog and see for your self. She stitched "Autumn Song" and finished it into a beautiful sewing box. I love it so much that I immediately kit and start this project. Here is my progress so far.

This chart is by Blackbird Designs. I stitch it on 32ct Lambswool using a mixture of threads (DMC, Anchor and Cosmo). I love this piece because it contains all my favorite colors - Autumn.
I am still not sure about the finishing, not brave enough to try the box finish.

The second start is a design (Sew Red) by Carol R. She starts designing recently and offers two free charts. Please visit her blog if you like copies of her sampler designs. I started my stitching on 32ct Belfast linen using Crescent Color , Apple Fritters. Red is my favorite color beside the autumn colors. Thank you, Carol, for a lovely sampler.

F1 Night Races got underway in Singapore on Friday night. The races run from Sep 25 to 27. I am not a fan of racing but it is a big event in Singapore. There is plenty of entertainment at the Bay.

Thank you for all lovely comments.

Take care and happy stitching until the next update!

Hugs,
Ellen

Fall Biscornu and an Update on Beatrix

2009-09-12T11:53:00.021+08:00

Victoria Sampler Yahoo Group is having a Fall Contest. Thea Dueck (the host) has designed a fall biscornu for this contest. This design calls for a combination of hardanger, cross stitch and ribbon embroidery( if you like). Stitchers are free to use their choices of fabrics and threads. Other embellishments like beads, ribbons and buttons etc are allowed. Entries must be posted by 1st October and the winner will be voted by the members of this group. I had finished my version of the biscornu. I stitched the design on 32ct Belfast linen (light sand) using DMC and Anchor threads. The biscornu is small, barely 2 3/4 inches in size.

While I have my attention on hardanger, I decided to finish this Hardanger Runner. It has been an UFO for more than 2 years. I got tired of all the weavings and there were lots of other distractions like starting new hobbies and new designs. This design was stitched on 28ct light yellow Monaco. I hope to finish it soon, only five more of those circles to weave.

Here is another small hardanger project to show. I mounted this heart on a plastic box. The thread using is DMC varigated perle 8.

I got this Kit from Doris, she was finding new homes for her UFOs. It is an Emie Bishop's kit with hardanger and cross stitch. Doris had started with the hardanger and I continue from there. Here is a picture of the progress so far. Thank you, Doris, for this kit. I shall enjoy stitching it.

Here is an update on Beautrix. I have been adding two to three motifs monthly, progress is slow but steady. Pictures are posted to the BP SAL's blog faithfully every month. Posting encourages me to pick up and stitch on this sampler every month. I do not want this to be another UFO. This sampler is unlikely to be completed by end of this year as I originally planned.

Happy Dance! I had completed Joyful and Caring, it was a fun and quick stitch. This is the design I stitched for the LHN's Women SAL. This piece is destinated for my friend's birthday next month. I have not decided on the finishing.

Currently, I am busy stitching for swap and exchange. Thank you all friends for visiting my blog. I appreciate all the comments.

Happy stitching and take care!

Hugs,
Ellen

Finishes, SAL and Exchange

2009-08-23T17:50:00.015+08:00

I had internet access problems in the last two weeks, cannot access any blogs and of course no postings. DH changed the modem yesterday and voila, I can surf again. I had been busy stitching and sewing during the computer downtime. Here are a couple of finishes to share. I put the last stitches to the Table Topper last week. For the finishing, I have decided to make yo-yos instead of wool circles.

Next on the show, is a hardanger
sewing case. It was a pretty quick project, only took me three days to stitch and finish. The stitching was done on 28ct light blue Monaco using Anchor Perle 8 and DMC Perle 12. My stitching is definitely better than my finishing, lol!

The LHN SAL started on 17 August. We are allowed to choose any LHN's designs with little women in them. I chose to stitch 'Joyful and Caring' - Little Women Virtues Series. This is a thread pack and I enjoy stitching with silk threads. It will be another quick project. I stitch on 32ct Lambswool linen so the design is pretty small, just about 4 1/2 inches square. Here is a picture of my progress so far.

On the exchange front, my partner, April, had received her By the Sea Exchange. I stitched for her a cute biscornu. This Seaside Biscornu is a freebie by Fabienne Reilly(www.feerie.co.uk). Stitching was done on 28ct blueish gray Monaco using DMC threads. I was glad that April like the biscornu and the goodies I sent her.

It is almost the end of August and from now till the end of the month, I will be stitching on my big wips. Hope to share my progress with you in my next update.

Thank you for visiting my blog. All comments are welcome.
Happy stitching N take care,

Ellen

Sharing Finishes

2009-07-31T17:43:00.007+08:00

A minute finish to share, it measures only about 1 1/2 inches. This design is by Donna of By The Bay Needleart. I stitched this Bay View Estate on 28ct Blueish Grey Monaco using DMC threads. Yes, I stitched over one again. It is tiny and delicate.

Remember the 36 patchwork squares in my last post? I assembled and machine quilted them and here is the finished bag. I changed the leather handles for fabric ones, they are softer. I am currently taking patchwork lessons at the Community Club. Hope to show my projects in my next post.

Finally, a picture to show what I received from Karen in the HoE Christmas in July Exchange. Karen stitched for me a design by Bent Creek, A Merry Little Christmas. I love this ornament. Karen also sent some goodies, love them. Thank you, Karen for a lovely exchange.

Currently stitching for exchange, so no picture yet. Progress on big wips is still slow, many distractions along the way.

We are celebrating our 44th National Day on the 9th of August. Happy Birthday, Singapore!

Take care and happy stitching till the next update.
Hugs,
Ellen

A Win, Exchange and Catching Up

2009-07-13T20:27:00.017+08:00

I won a Giveaway from Beth's blog in May and my prize had arrived! This sampler is designed by Beth Twist of Heartstring Primitives. Thank you, Beth, for the chart. I will enjoy stitching Constance Sullivan.

Recently, I join the second round of swap hosted by Nina. Heard from Nina that my partner, Melinda, had received the SWAP II gifts. The parcel took only five days to arrive in Hungary. The theme for this exchange is Autumn. I stitched Spot of Autumn by The Drawn Thread on 28ct Cashel linen with DMC & Anchor threads. I also stitched a scissors fob using one of the motifs from the chart. Here is a picture of the gifts. Please visit Melinda's blog for more pictures. I am glad that Melinda likes what I had stitched for her.

I am catching up with the progress of my wips. Finished April and May blocks of LK Flip-it Blocks and started on June. I hope to finish June and July blocks by the end of month.

Here is another update of the Table Topper. I enjoy stitching this design, very colorful. I wanted to start a new project but I promised myself that I will finish this Topper first. I have kitted "On The Moors" by The Sampler Girl, all ready to go.

I have done some sewing and here is what I am making, another bag.

I had sew 36 of these squares. Next step is to assemble them and finish them into the bag. The quilting will be done by machine. I would like to hand quilt but it is going to take too much time. I bought this kit from a local quilt shop. The owner is aTaiwanese and she sews beautiful bags and quilts. She carries lots of Japanese fabrics.

Thank you for visiting my blogs and your lovely comments.
Take care and happy stitching till the next update.

Hugs,
Ellen

Updates of Table Topper, Sals........

2009-07-03T21:16:00.011+08:00

I have been working on the Table Topper, here is a picture of the progress so far. Sorry for the poor picture, it was dark and raining when I snapped this wip. I switched to Anchor varigated thread for the light green color because the DMC's shade was just not right.

Progress on the large wips is slow. I promised myself to work on them more this summer vacation but got distracted along the way by so many other things. My current interest in patchwork is taking away the time for cross stitching. I had only added two and a half motifs to my BP sampler, very slow progress indeed. No work is done on the Christmas Quaker for quite a while, hope to pick it up soon. Currently working on the LK Flip-it Blocks, the April's block. I am way behind my goals, have to catch up with May, June and July blocks. Hopefully, I will have progress pictures to show in my next posting.

Remember the "Red Needles" in my last post, I had finished it into a sewing book, with pockets for threads, scissors and needles.

Lynn, my partner, had received the Christmas Ornament in the HoE Christmas in July Exchange. This is what I stitched for her - "Winter", a design by The Prairie Schooler. This design was featured in JCS Ornament 2006 Issue.

I just download the July Issue of The Gift of Stitching. Fell in love with the cover page, On the Moors with Emily Bronte Pillow by The Sampler Girl. Another new start? I am very tempted to start immediately but maybe after I finish the Table Topper.

Until the next update, Happy July 4th to all my American friends!

Take care,
Ellen

A New Start and Another Tote

2009-06-21T19:47:00.016+08:00

I have started a new project. This Folk Art Fantasy Table Topper is designed by Lettie Eckberg. Design is found in June 2009 issue of The Cross Stitcher. I fell in love with the design the moment I saw it. Kit it immediately and I am ready to start. I am stitching it on 32ct cream Belfast and using all DMC floss as I do not have access to The Gentle Art Sampler Threads. Here is a picture of the little I have accomplished so far.

I have been playing with my sewing machine and have a few things to show. First, another tote bag. I just love fabrics and this tote was the result of a mix and match of fabrics (log cabin design). The cross stitched piece on the tote is "Peppermint Lane" by CCN.

Next, a cushion. These seasonal birdies are Mausimoms' freebies.

The stitching of Souvenir de France was completed and I finished it as a pincushion. I love the new thread (Japanese overdyed) that I used for this freebie.

I have been busy sewing and stitching the last two weeks. Here is another small project that I had completed. This piece is a combination of two freebies, the Needles is designed by Marie and the initial E can be found here. Marie named the design "Black Needles" using GAST Black Crow but I decided to use my favourite red color. I will finish this as a needlebook.

I also have been working on my big wips, will post pictures in my next update.

Take care until the next time!

Hugs,
Ellen

A combination of two passions

2009-06-05T19:39:00.010+08:00

I made my first tote bag, combining cross stitch with patchwork. I love patchwork but usually do only small handmade projects. Now, with Brother Sewing Machine, I am looking forward to bigger and more ambitious projects. I am proud of my first Tote.

Look at these lovely threads, they are overdyed threads made in Japan. I bought them from a quilt shop. I wanted to try this new thread and started a small piece, Souvenir de France. This is a freebie offered by Barb of Blackbird Designs.

Yes, I am stitching 1 over 1. This is my first attempt and I am loving it, the stitching looks delicate and petite.

I completed my second sewing accessory from 2009 BBD Loose Feather series. This pincushion can be personalised and is quick to stitch. I found a wooden ashtray at a Pasar Malam (night market) and mounted my pincushion on it.

I am way behind in my big Wips, not much stitching on A Quaker Christmas, BP sampler and LK Flip-it blocks. I got distracted by so many new designs and projects that I wanted to do. Here is a picture of my BP sampler, I only completed one and a half motif in May. I am determind to work more on these wips this summer holiday.

Before I sign off, Yuko is having two blogoversary giveaways. Please visit her blog for more details.
Kathy is also having a giveaway, she is offering surprise prizes. You have until June 26th so go visit her blog.

Take care and happy stitching till the nezt update!
Hugs,
Ellen

Hardanger and other stitching stuff

2009-05-23T16:01:00.025+08:00

I have been stitching this hardanger bellpull for a while. I give hardanger lessons on a part time basis, so this is going to be a sample for my hardanger class. Here is the WIP. The charted piece was stitched on dark fabric and thread. I changed the fabric to a lighter cream Colmar 25ct and use DMC 801 & 435 perle 8 cotton for the threads. I tend to change the pattern also as I stitch along so this could end up very different from what is being charted.

The BBD needlebook is finally completed. I love Barb's instructions on finishing this needlebook, you will see more needlebooks soon. This is the first sewing accessory with the 2009 Loose Feather pattern. Next, I will be stitching the pincushion, the accessory that comes with Loose Feather #36.

My DS wanted a cross stitch coaster. I stitched part of "Luck" on vinyl using DMC 4050 and 319. I should had used a different color for the letter L, it got blended in with the clovers. You can find this freebie here.

Look at this cute Quaker pin cube. I saw this cube on Mylene's blog and could not resist stitching it. It's a Quaker. The pin cube was a mini SAL hosted by Stitch-Creations.

Gillie was my partner for the Summer Exchange on the wXSw Group. She stitched for me a lovely biscornu in my favourite color. Look at the goodies she sent me! Thank you, Gillie, for a lovely exchange.

I had completed my two free sewing lessons with Brother when I bought the sewing machine. I learned to handle the machine and the various functions, hope to use the machine for finishing jobs in the future.
I pick up patchwork recently and enjoy the many quilters' blogs I found. I had added Vicky's button on my blog, she has free BOM on her blog. Enjoy her blog and check out the BOM, they are gorgeous.

Carol R is having a giveaway with a twist, check out her blog for details.

Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate all the comments.
Take care and happy stitching till the next update!

Hugs,

Ellen

A Couple of Small Finishes

2009-05-06T08:13:00.012+08:00

Frogs had been visiting me lately. I frogged out a few motifs on my Quaker wips and decided to put them aside for a while. I had been working on small projects for the last week and had a couple of finishes to show.

I stitched the needlebook from BBD Loose Feather #35. Stitching was done but I have yet to finish it into a needlebook, take a peek.

I used DMC colors on some 28ct linen in my stash. I enjoyed stitching this piece, quick and fun.

I visit Mylene's blog very often. Recently, she stitched a mini SAL "Love Grows" by Oakhaven Designs (OHD). The design is so pretty, she enabled me to join the same SAL. I signed up to join the group and here is my finished piece in my favourite autumn colors. I am not sure yet how I am going to finish it, probably a pinkeep. It was stitched on 32ct Belfast and measured about 4.5" x 4".

I bought some hand-dyed fabrics from Joan of Sapphire Stitching some time ago. The fabrics come in 8" x 8" cut, good for stitching ornaments. Joan normally dyes Aida fabrics, mine was a special order in 28ct evenweave. I tried a monochrome design on this fabric and it turned out great. I love it.

This design is titled "L'ange a la flute" by Mounette. I used DMC 3857.

Now, I can go back to my Quaker samplers and monthly goals. Hope to have some progress to show soon. I am going for my free sewing lesson today, bought the Brother Sewing Machine a couple of weeks ago. More updates later.

Edgar is celebrating his 2nd blogoversary soon. He is having a secret giveaway, please visit his blog for more details.

There is another giveaway by Stephanie, she is enjoying her 10,000 visitors hit. Please visit her blog to sign up.

Thank you for your visits and comments. Happy Stitching till the next update!
Hugs,
Ellen

BBD Little Sampler

2009-04-29T07:28:00.006+08:00

By now, you would have seen this little sampler being stitched over and over again. There are so many versions, so many memories and so many colors.

Here is my version of this little sampler. I stitched it on 32ct linen using my favourite autumn colors, DMC 3857, 3859 and variations 4140. I decided to put the family name on the sampler. Thank you, Alma for this chart.

Next, an update on my wips. I am way behind this month, have yet to start on my April's Christmas ornament and LK's April Block is only half done. Progress on Quaker Christmas and BP Sampler is also slow. I had to frog out a whole motif on BP Sampler because of one missing cross. I was upset and put it away for a while. Here are the progress pictures todate.

Simone is having a Blogoversary Giveaway. Please visit her blog for more details.

Thank you for visiting. Take care until the next update.

Hugs,
Ellen

Wonderful Exchanges

2009-04-23T21:46:00.018+08:00

I have two wonderful exchanges to share.

Today, I received my woodland exchange parcel from Simon e. This is the second time Simone stitched for me, the first being the Floss Tag Exchange on HoE. Simone's stitching and finishing are beautiful. She chose designs from "And A Forest Grew" and finished them into a pincushion and a scissors fob. The fob was personalised with my initials on the back. They are so beautiful, I love them. The fob is already on my scissors.

Simone also sent me goodies. Look at picture to see what she sent me. These goodies will be put to good use for my next exchange.

Thank you Simone for a wonderful exchange.

Last week, I received another super exchange from Nela of Venezuela. It was the long awaiting Biscornu Exchange. The first parcel was lost in the post and Nela had to stitch a replacement. Thank you Nela, I appreciate the time and effort put in.

Nela sent my exchange in a lovely and nice smelling box. I was speechless when I opened and unwrapped the presents. Nela designed and stitched a biscobourse especially for me. The closure on the biscobourse is very special, it is a chinese knot. Nela took five hours to make it. Look at the treasures I found in the biscoburse - a floss tag with ribbon and threads; a needlebook and a scissors pouch with scissors, a beaded scissors fob and a tiny biscornu fob. These tiny treasures are all personalised. They are beautifully stitched and finished, I will treasure them.

Nela also sent me a thread keep handcrafted by her. She put my favourite flower on the front of the thread keep and my name on the back. She is a very talented lady.

Thank you Nela for a wonderful exchange.

For the same Woodland Exchange, my partner Verona had received the parcel. I found a Arbor Day freebie in my stash. I modified the chart and added some motifs. It was finished as a needlebook. I personalised the needlebook with Verona's initial on the inside. I am glad that she likes the needlebook.

Since I started blogging in September last year, I realize that there are a lot of talented stitchers out there. I love to see all the beautiful things they stitched and finished. They enable me, I want to stitch and make all the lovely things I have seen.

Until the next time, happy stitching and take care.

Hugs,
Ellen

Spring SAL '09

2009-04-15T15:31:00.025+08:00

Remember the LHN/CCN Spring SAL I mentioned in my last post? Well, I managed to put in my last stitches before the deadline - 15th April, 2009. Here is a picture of the finished piece - Flower Shop by CCN. The colors are very pastel and springy.

I am currently expanding my skills at different finishing techniques. It is not perfect but here is my first heart-shaped ornament. The design was taken from one of the cross stitch magazines. This ornie was handmade, I did not have the sewing machine then. I had just got myself a new toy, Brother Sewing Machine model BM2600. I will be going for free sewing lessions in May. I hope to improve and expand my finishing skills further. Pictures and more about my new toy in my next post.

Next, some exchanges to share. I participated in the recent Biscornu Exchange at Tiny Treasures Exchange (TTE). These were what I stitched and received for this exchange. I stitched this biscornu and a matching scissors fob for my partner, Monique N. The freebie is designed by fellow Singaporean Stitcher, Joei. The tiny biscornu I received was from Maria of Canada. This 15-sided biscornu was made differently from the normal biscornu. It had little legs like table and they represents the coming of spring(according to Maria).

Nina of Between Crosses is running a scissors giveaway. Please visit her blog for more details. Nina encourages stitchers to show their collections of scissors. Here is a picture of my collection. I cannot resist scissors. Every time I see one, I say I want, I want. I hope my husband don't read this post, he must be wandering why I need so many pairs of scissors and still adding to the collection.

Thank you for stopping by. I appreciate and love all your comments.

Until the next update,
Ellen

Updates

2009-03-24T13:24:00.028+08:00

It's been more than two weeks since my last post, time for an update. I have two small finishes for March, a Christmas ornie and a biscornu. Both designs are freebies.

I have been rotating my wips and here is the progress. First, the March Block of the LK Flip-It Blocks. I love stitching these blocks on one piece, they are so colorful. Next, my Quaker projects, the BP Sampler and the Quaker Christmas. I really enjoy Quaker designs. I am very pleased with my color choices and progress.

Don't the blocks look good together?

QC Progress #4

BP Progress #2

I joined another SAL, the LHN Spring SAL. We have a few design choices for this SAL. I stitched the only chart I had, The Flower Shop by CCN. This is a smaller project and I hope to finish the stitching by April 15th. Will post picture soon .

It is the raining season in Singapore now. It rains almost everyday, so wet and gloomy. I love to stay warm and cozy indoor during rainy days, nice weather for hot drink and stitching.

Take care until the next time!

Exchanges to share

2009-03-05T21:07:00.012+08:00

Wow, look at this gorgeous Winter Quaker that Margaret stitched for me. The pictures do not do it justice, it is simply stunning. Margaret's stitching and finishing are perfect. The chart is from The Gift of Stitching May 2007 Issue. Margaret used DMC pearlescent thread and it glistens in the light. Thank you, Margaret, for all the goodies. I will treasure this Quaker.

Tracy had received my parcel for the HoE Biscournu Exchange, so now I can show what I had stitched for her. This chart is a freebie by Maria. I used DMC 815 on 32ct Belfast linen.
More pictures at Tracy's blog.

I had this small finish to share. This is a freebie by Carole D and first stitched by Linda. I was attracted by the variations threads that Linda used for this pattern and had to stitch one for myself. Here it is, my blue love birds. I would probably finish this as a biscornu.

I went for patchwork class last week and finished this handmade little tray. It can be used for trinkets and sewing accessories.

Thank you for visiting. I appreciate all the lovely comments. Take care until the next update.

Seasonal Breezes SAL is finally complete.....

2009-02-23T09:20:00.012+08:00

Yippie, this SAL is finally complete. I received the final part early this month and completed the stitching on Feb 13th. Now, to decide, should I stitch a border? What color? I welcome any suggestions/comments.

In my last post, I mentioned that I had joined another SAL, the Beatrix Potter Quaker Sampler SAL hosted by Hazel. I started late and had just posted my first picture on the SAL blog. I use DMC variations 4210 on 32ct Belfast linen. Here is a picture of my first progress. We are supposed to post monthly progress pictures to the Blog. I am enjoying this SAL.

I had an exchange to share. I received my HoE LK exchange from Rita. She stitched an Alphabet Sampler and finished it as a flatfold. It is beautiful and I love it. Rita also sent me some goodies, thanks Rita for a lovely exchange.

I am meeting my monthly goals, here is my February ornament. This is a freebie by Valerie @ Bonheur de Brodeuses. I am now rotating my stitchings among 3 big wips, ie, A Quaker Christmas, BP Quaker Sampler and LK Flip-It Blocks. Will post progress pictures in my next update.

Thank you for visiting my blog. Take care until the next update.

Valentine Hearts

2009-02-10T07:38:00.017+08:00

Time flies, yesterday was the last day of Chinese New Year. Traditionally, the new year is celebrated for 15 days. Valentine's Day is round the corner, I stitched these two hardanger hearts for my friends. The charts are freebies from Fairy Needle. They were fairly quick to stitch.

It's a bit late but here it is, my January Ornament. This design is no stranger, it has been stitched by many. My ornament is a bit big, it looks more like a pincushion. I stitched it on 28 ct Cashel linen.

I rotate my two big projects, A Quaker Christmas and LK Flip It Blocks, and the progress is great. I have finished the February Block of LK ahead of time and have plenty of time for my exchange stitchings. I am so crazy about Quaker, I have started another Quaker project. I joined the Beatrix Potter Quaker Sampler SAL hosted by Hazel. I am stitching on 32ct Belfast linen using DMC variation 4210, will post progress soon. In the meantime, here is February Block of LK and Progress #3 of A Quaker Christmas.

Still remember my Willie Quaker Square #7, here is a picture of the finished Tote Bag. My friend helped me and her sewing is super.
I took my mother to the Annual Flower Show at Sentosa earlier this month. My Mum and I love flowers. I will leave you with pictures from the show.
Take care and Happy Stitching!

Exhange, exchange and wip progress

2009-01-19T17:32:00.012+08:00

I received this beautiful fob from Monique of Luxembourg. This is the very first exchange of Tiny Treasures Exchange hosted by Sharon. Monique stitched this Passione Ricarmo design in my favourite colours. On the back of the fob, she stitched our names. I love the fob, it is now on my scissors. Monique also sent me some buttons, DMC threads, a thimble and an address book with postcards. Thank you, Monique for a lovely exchange.

For this very same exchange, this is what I stitched for my partner, Joan. This design is a freebie from Windy Willow. I stitched in Joan's favourite colour, blue. More pictures are posted in Joan's blog.

Next exchange, I stitched this LK freebie for Melissa for the HoE exchange. I finished it as a pincushion with Melissa's initial at the back. Please visit Melissa's blog for more pictures.

Now, an update on my WIPs. Here is A Quaker Christmas progress #2, it is progressing very nicely. I have also started the LK Flip It blocks. I am stitching them all in one piece. Finished January's block and just progressing to next month. In between these two big projects, I am stitching for exchanges and working on my monthly ornament.
Thank you visiting my blog and all the lovely comments. Gong Xi Fa Cai to everyone who
celebrate Chinese New Year.

Take care and Happy Stitching!

First Finish of 2009

2009-01-14T08:35:00.013+08:00

Double firsts! This is my first finish of 2009 and it is also my first LHN design. I really love this chocolate box but still not sure how I would finish it.

Next an update on the Seasonal Breezes SAL that I am stitching. This SAL was delayed due to the holiday seasons, it was supposed to finished by Jan 2009. I have just finished stitching Spring Breeze 7, can't wait for last part due next month. This SAL is fun and quick to stitch.

I have started on my 2009 project, A Quaker Christmas. Not much done yet but it a start, I am pleased with the green colours. Here is a picture of the progress so far. I have also started on my second project, the LK Flip it Blocks. Almost finish January Block, will post picture soon.

CHINESE NEW YEAR
Chinese New Year is just round the corner, on the 26th and 27th of January. Traditionally in China, Chinese New Year marks the end of winter and the start of spring. Hence, Chinese New Year is also known as Spring Festival. In Singapore, being Chinese majority, we celebrate Chinese New Year in big ways. We spring clean and decorate our homes with lanterns, new year decorations, potted flowers and Kamguat (orange) plants. Red is lucky and the colour for Chinese New Year. Here are two pictures of shops selling new year decorations, they are traditionally red in colour. Most shops will be closed on the eve of Chinese New Year and the first day of New Year. We have a reunion dinner on the eve, normally a steamboat dinner. I will be going to MIL's house in KL, Malaysia, for the new year.

More about Chinese New Year in my next post.

Take care and happy stitching!

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T13:10:00.013+08:00

Wishing everyone a healthy and prosperous 2009.

My younger DD is going back to school tomorrow after a 2-month break. She is going back to her new school campus which was under renovation/extension for 2 years.

I pick up my stitchings again after Christmas. Happy dances, I now have 2 finishes to show. I put the last stitch to Willie's Quaker Square #7 on 27th Dec. I am very pleased with my colour choice for this piece, it turned out beautifully. Started on my first project/goal for 2009, A Quaker Christmas. I have a hard time deciding on the colours but finally choose the basic colours of Christmas, ie , green, red and gold. Will post picture of progress soon.
The next finish is the Peppermint Lane. This is the piece I stitch for the LHN/CCN Winter SAL, my first CCN design. This design is beautiful and quick to stitch. Another first, I started on LHN Chocolate Box. It is almost finished, will post picture later.

If you have visited my blog earlier, you will have noticed that I stitched these 2 pieces a long time ago. I finally have them finished as bourses. I am very pleased with my first attempt at making them.

I am gathering fabby and threads to start my second project - the LK Flip It Blocks. My stitching is back on track, I find that it heals and ease painful memories.

Happy Stitching and take care!

Update and exchanges

2008-12-21T18:54:00.013+08:00

It's almost a month since I last posted. It had been a busy and sad month. My dad was very sick in November and passed away on the 26th of November. His death hit us very badly especially my mom. I missed my dad very much. I have been spending time with my mom so that she will not feel too sad and lonely. I guess time will heal the pain and sadness.

I have tried to pick up my stitchings again but the mood is not there. In the meantime, I have set myself some stitching goals for 2009:

1) A Quaker Christmas by ByGone Stitches

2) Flip-it Blocks by Lizzie Kate - one block per month

3) Christmas ornaments - one ornie per month

4) exchange stitchings

I hope to start stitching after the holidays. Have a couple of exhanges to update, I received my HoE Christmas ornament from Leigh D. She stitched a lovely stocking ornie by Blackbird Designs. She also sent me some note pads, chocolate and a nice card. Thank you, Leigh for a lovely exchange. I also participated in the EMS 5th Annual Ornament exchange and received this lovely ornie from Melissa McQueen. I am not sure about the origin of this design but thanks, Melissa for this ornie.

I join LHN Winter SAL and started on Peppermint Lane. Here is a picture of where I left off.

Thank you for visiting. Merry Christmas and a wonderful year ahead!

Exchanges and ornies

2008-11-24T21:27:00.010+08:00

Sally had received my parcel, so now I can show what I stitched for her. This is the HoE Christmas ornament exchange and I stitched Lizzie Kate December Flip-it Block on 28 ct linen. Here is the picture. I also sent Sally some goodies, please visit her blog.

I am also in the Holiday ornament exchange on the EMS board. My partner is Melanie from Australia. I am very sure that she does not read my blog, so I went ahead to post a picture of the ornie. She should receive it shortly, hope she likes what I had stitched for her. This is a freebie from the Cricket Collection.

Here are some ornies that I am going to keep for myself - Santa and more Santa. These 2 Santas are by The Prairie Schooler. I also finished "Jingle, sparkle, joy" a freebie by Midsummer Night Musings. Now I have to decide how to finish them.

Next an update on my Willie's Quaker Square. I really love this design, it should be finished in no time. I have ordered A Quaker Christmas - chart plus supplies- this is my Quaker project for 2009. I am excited and eager to start this big project.

Thank you for visiting and happy stitching!

Chiloe's giveaway

2008-11-16T10:36:00.002+08:00

Chiloe is celebrating her first 600 posts. She decided to do a giveaway, go to her blog for more details.

Thanks for visiting, happy stitching.

I was tagged

2008-11-14T09:22:00.007+08:00

Mylene tagged me to share 6 random things about me.

Here are the rules:

1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2. Post the rules on your blog.
3. Write six random things about yourself.
4. Tag six people at the end of your post.
5. Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.
6. Let the tagger know your entry is up.

Six random things about myself:
1. I am a coffee addict and must drink coffee first thing in the morning.

2. I don't eat much chocolate but I love dark chocolate.

3. I love Autumn even though there is no season change where I live. To me Autumn is cool and beautiful, all those lovely colours.

4. I am an accountant by profession. I retired five years ago. Now, I am a part time needleworks teacher, giving lessons on hardanger, embroidery etc

5. Besides needlecrafts, I am also into mosaic arts. I am a trainer with a mosaic shop and supervise children's lessons.

6. I met my husband 26 years ago when he came to Singapore to work. We were colleagues at an audit firm.

I am supposed to tag 6 people,I do hope I'm not double-tagging someone. Feel free to do the tag and if not, that is fine too. I don't want to burden anyone with anything.

1. Joke
2. Jessie
3. Joan
4. Yuko
5. Sandra
6. Sachiko

I am new to this, I hope I am doing the right thing.

Here is an update on Willie's Quaker Square. I love the way it is coming along.

Thank you for visiting my blog. Happy Stitching!

Exchange and update

2008-11-09T16:25:00.009+08:00

Heard from Jill that she had received my parcel for the floss tag exchange. As this is my first exchange, I was getting worried that it took so long to reach her, about 11 days. I am very happy to know that she like what I stitch for her and also the goodies that I sent her. Now, I can show what I stitch for her.
I stitched a peacock in Jill's favourite colour on the front and HoE & our initials on the back. You can see more pictures at Jill's blog.

As promised in my last post, here is a picture of my current WIP, Willie's Quaker Square #7. I stitch this on 32ct Belfast linen using Anchor variegated thread.
An update on my Seasonal Breeze SAL. I had finished the Winter Breeze, one more season to go - Spring. This SAL is fun and quick to stitch. Thanks Patrizia from The Cutemermaid for the SAL.

Thank you for visiting my blog. Happy Stitching!

Floss Tag Exchange

2008-11-02T10:05:00.005+08:00

I received a lovely parcel from Simone all the way from the Netherlands. Simone is my partner for the HoE Floss Tag Exchange. She stitched the "round robin" over one on a piece of tea-dyed linen. I love it. Simone also added some extras, variegated threads, ornament cut piece of linen, pins and a nice postcard. Thanks, Simone for a wonderful exchange. This is my very first exchange.

Here is a close up picture of the Floss Tag. Isn't it lovely?

I had mailed off my floss tag to my partner, will post pictures when she receives it. I have started a new project recently, the Willie's Quaker Square #7. I am stitching it on 32ct Belfast using Anchor variegated thread. Will post progress soon.

Happy Stitching!

Letter Prize

2008-10-29T16:03:00.009+08:00

Look at what the postman delivered today! I have a parcel from Madeira Garne, Germany. This is my prize for the letter published in Cross Stitch Collection Issue 163. The prize consists of some silk and metallic threads, a stitching hoop and a pair of gold plated double curved scissors.

Here is a closed up picture of the scissors. I am looking forward to trying the silk threads for my next projects. Thanks Madeira for the wonderful prize.

Take care & happy stitching!

Two small finishes & an UFO

2008-10-29T08:32:00.012+08:00

Have not post for two weeks, was down with the flu virus. I had fever and sore throat for a couple of days. Thanks goodness, I am better now except that the throat is still a bit sore.

Found an UFO while going through my stash, it was a kit by Periwinkle Promises - Marigold Sampler Accent. I bought this kit many years ago and started on it but for some reasons it was not finished. I finally finished it last night and here is a picture of it.

I have two other small finishes to show. They are freebies, one from Plum Pudding Needleart and the other from Debbie Draper Designs. I am going to try my hands at making them into
bourses.

I had also finished the "Waterlilies on a Pond" - WIP in my previous post. What attracted me about this chart was the colour of the waterlilies. They are purplish blue in colour which is not so common. We normally see more pink waterlilies.

I had mailed out my floss tag for the HOE exchange, will post picture later when my partner receives the parcel. Also participate in the EMS Board beaded fob exchange, will mail out the parcel today.

Thank you for visiting my blog and I love and appreciate all those lovely comments.
Until later, happy stitching!

Floral Extravaganza

2008-10-12T17:09:00.012+08:00

I got a big surprise when I opened Cross Stitch Collection (UK cross stitch magazine) last Friday. My letter was published, hooray! I love flowers and sent them pictures of my vases of flowers a couple of months ago. These flowers were from various issues of Collection. I had forgotten that I had sent that e-mail until I saw my letter in the magazine. I am a collector of magazines both cross stitch and hardanger.

Here are some closeup pictures of the flowers.WIP

I have started another piece "Waterlilies on a pond" from this magazine.

Thank you for visiting my blog. I appreciate and love all the lovely comments.

Happy Stitching!

A Busy Week

2008-10-06T20:49:00.021+08:00

Had a busy and fruitful week. I put the final stitch to my Damier Checkerboard. Here is the picture. The final part to this SAL is the border. I am finishing this piece into a cushion so will leave out the border. Thanks Maryse for this SAL. Maryse now has designs for purchase.

Stitched up and put the final touch to a few biscornus during the week. The blue one in the picture is for Maria(her birthday is on the 13 October). Maria manages the shop where I give hardanger lessons.

The shop carries mainly DMC threads with some Anchor perle cotton and special Kreinik.
Knotty Shop carries a selection of linen, evenweave and aida fabrics. That is Maria in the picture.

I had added two adorable black and white kits( on 14 count white aida) to my stash. I have decided to stitch them on 28 count linen instead.

Happy Stitching!

Update

2008-09-23T20:21:00.011+08:00

It has been two weeks since I last posted. Currently, I am addicted to smalls, have been stitching small designs. All my big wips are in cold storage now. I had finished another triangular scissor case and a floss tag. Found the merlion design in my stash and stitched into a cute floss tag. I forgot who actually charted this pattern. The
scissor case is from one of Carinne's freebies.

Now, an update on my monopoly SAL. It is progressing very slowly, I had worked on it on and off during the past two weeks. Here is a picture of the progress.

This ring pillow is a sample. I regularly stitch something new as samples for my students. Many students had stitched this design for their families and friends.

Singapore is gearing for the world's first Formula One night race this weekend, from 26th to 28th September. There are lots of promotions and events during this Grand Prix (GP) season.
I am not a fan of this sport, find it too noisy and dangerous.

SALs

2008-09-08T16:54:00.018+08:00

Stitch, stitch and stitch! I hooked myself to several Sals recently. Yesterday, I finally started on my Monopoly SAL. I found a piece of 28 count cream linen in my stash big enough to start the project. Here is a picture of my progress so far.

List of other SALs that I am doing:

The Seasonal Breezes SAL by the Cute Mermaid. Fun and quick to
stitch.

Halloween SAL by Joan Pavlick (sapphirestitching)
Have not make up the game board and pieces yet.

Damier Checkerboard SAL by Maryse
Some stitching to catch up.

List of SALs that I want to start:

How Does Your Garden Grow? by Papillon Creations
Rose Sampler By EMS
Symphonie SAL by Isa R. Creation

I am very ambitious, lol , as though I don't have enough things to do.

Parcel from Japan

2008-09-04T06:45:00.008+08:00

The parcel finally arrived. Emi sent me two cross stitch books and cookies. Emi is my ex-hardanger student. She went back to Japan 3 years ago. She is staying in Yokohama now.

The books she sent are part of the DMC Museum Collection, one is on folklore and the other on nostalgia. Cross stitch folklore is a collection of patterns and stitches from Eastern Europe. The other book contains patterns on daily life, fairy tales, cloths & customs, school life etc. I love these books, thank you so much Emi.

The cookies look yummy, couldn't wait to try!

I have made a small biscornu for Emi, the design is from Mausimoms blog. I would be sending her this and some other surprise soon.

Discover the World of Smalls

2008-09-02T07:29:00.015+08:00

I have been surfing the net recently and discovered the World of Smalls. Now I am hooked on smalls. Making smalls tests my finishing skills and I've made a few to show.

This is my first biscornu. The design is by Pelin Tezer. It is a bit big because I stitched it on 25 count Lugana.

Next I try my hands on making floss tags. It took me some time to figure out how to make them. I came across Staci's tutorial on floss tags after I made these. Thanks you Helga for the flower freebie. The blue motif is from Windy Willows.

After making the floss tags, I had a bright idea (ha! ha!) to finish the next piece into a nametag for my daughter. She has ballet lesson every Sunday, so I stitched two ballerinas for her. The design is from Dance Factory.

I love this design when I saw it on the net. This Hungarian design is by Ancsa. I am now crazy about this triangular scissor case and in the process of making my second one. I will post a picture when it is done.

I am now in the world of smalls. Everyday I am looking for small designs to make small things.

Welcome to my Blog

2008-09-01T21:15:00.000+08:00

This is my first attempt at blogging. My children did a great job helping me start up this blog. I am married with 3 children. We live in Singapore. I am an accountant by profession but had stopped working for many years. I have been cross stitching for more than 20 years and still crazy about it. I also love hardanger and teach this at a craft shop three days a week. Here, you can see some pictures of my teaching pieces.

The students usually start their first projects stitching these coasters. After the initial piece, they can choose their next project. Over the years, I have many students, mainly Japanese. Locally, hardanger is not very popular and very few shops carries the threads and fabrics required for hardanger.

My other hobbies are beading, mosaics and reading.