Still life with unfinished embroidery, threads and lace

One of most confusing aspects of learning needlepoint is deciphering the many stitches that are available. If you are working from a kit, it generally isn’t a problem. Each kit will specify which stitches should be used and where. However, if you are creating your own project from scratch, where do you go to get help? The following is a breakdown of the types of stitches available:

Cross Stitches are probably the most popular type of stitch used today. Crossed Stitches are a principal stitch used in needlepoint tapestry. They are exactly what the name implies – stitches that are created by crossing the threads over each other. The size of the crossed stitch can vary, depending on the thickness of the thread and the gauge of the canvas. It is important, however, to make sure that each crossed stitch covers the canvas. A few examples of crossed stitches are the cross stitch (obviously), fishbone stitch, herringbone stitch and waffle stitch. There are, however, many, many more…

Straight Stitches, again, are exactly what the name implies – straight stitches! These stitches are worked either vertically or horizontally on canvas. They look best when worked on single canvas. They are a great stitch for working large pieces of canvas. However, do not create a stitch that is too long. Some of the more popular straight stitches are the long stitch (aka straight stitch), the florentine stitch (aka bargello), and the back stitch.

Diagonal Stitches are stitches that are worked, yes you guessed it, diagonally (at a slant). It is especially important to maintain an even tension when working diagonal stitches. This will help prevent your canvas from warping. Some of the more popular diagonal stitches include: the diagonal stitch (you probably saw that one coming), the basketweave stitch (aka tent stitch) and the continental stitch. Again there are many, many more diagonal stitches available.

Composite Stitches are stitches that use more than one type of stitch. Composite stitches are generally large. Because of this, the yarn may not always cover the canvas completely. To help remedy this, try not to pull the yarn too tight when making the stitches. Some composite stitches include the star stitch (aka the algerian eye stitch), the leaf stitch, and the triangle stitch, plus many more.

Looped Stitches are also called “Pile Stitches”. All of these stitches create a texture with a 3-D look. The pile surface is created by the loops contained in the stitches. Some stitches remain with the loops intact, some require the loops be cut. Although looped stitches are generally used in rug making, they may also be used in any needlepoint project that requires a 3-D or “pile” look. Some of the more interesting looped stitches include the loop stitch, the shell stitch (a very exciting stitch) and the velvet stitch. Again, there are many more available.

These are the main types of stitches available today. The final decision of which stitches to incorporate into your piece will depend on the gauge of the canvas/material you are working on and the type of yarn/thread you are working with. However, we can discuss that subject at another time…

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So my eight-year-old daughter and I did some over the weekend and we both had a great time – it’s really the perfect craft for all ages – and pretty cheap too!

So what it entailed was tracing the patterns,

then cutting them out of the felt,

then doing some sewing with embroidery thread and an embroidery or quilting needle (BTW, she’s using a very blunt quilting needle here – works on felt and safe for youngsters if you keep an eye on them),

and a bit of glueing here and there.

When it was all done, I ended up with this cute fish:

and my six-year-old just had a good time coming up with her own creations :

So if you’re looking for a fun and affordable project for adults and kids, this is definitely a great book to check out!

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We’ve just created a sister site devoted exclusively to knitting – The Knitter’s Niche – here you will find knitting tips and ideas from avid knitter and professional writer Andrea.

Stop by and let us know what you think – or just say ‘hello’!

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Materials:

• terracotta or clay pots (if possible, search ones with rounded bottoms)
• gold, white or black spray paint
• green paint
• Spanish moss
• chocolate or mint coins wrapped in gold foil

Instructions:

1. You can make three different types of pots – white, black and gold. For black pots, spray the pots with black paint and similarly make white or golden pots. Let the pots dry out completely. If needed, paint a second coating.2. Once the paint is dry, use green paint to make a four-clover leaf pattern on the pots.

3. When dry, fill the pots three-fourths with moss. Fill the rest of the pots generously with chocolate or mint coins or any other coin-shaped candies wrapped in gold foil.

4. Give as gifts to your friends or use as party favors for your St. Patrick’s Day fun party!

Content & Images Copyright © I Love To CRAFT.
Craft Project provided by http://www.iLovetoCRAFT.com. Visit us for more craft ideas and free patterns.

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Decorating eggs is a traditional craft practiced by families and artisans around the world.

Some use decorating methods handed down over generations, such as the elaborately decorated pysanky of Slavic nations or the cascarones of Mexico. Others invent new ways to embellish their eggs each year — painting them, writing on them, turning them into funny faces, or trimming them with odds and ends from around the house. Many folks, though, prefer their eggs simply dyed in a rainbow of hues. For both children and adults, it can be fascinating to see the effects of dipping the eggs into different colored dyes.

You can decorate either hard-cooked eggs or empty eggshells. Hard-cooked eggs are a bit sturdier for children to use, while empty shells are best if you’re making an egg tree or want to keep the eggs on display for a considerable time. To dye your eggs, use commercial egg dyes, food coloring or dyes you make yourself from foods and spices. According to the American Egg Board, homemade natural dyes are easy to prepare and go well with all-natural eggs.

Simply toss your choice of a handful — or two or three — of one of the materials below into a saucepan. For spices, try a spoonful or two instead. Use your own judgment about quantity. This is an art, not a science. Add about a cup of water for each handful, so the water comes at least an inch above the dyestuff. Bring to boiling, reduce the heat and simmer from 15 minutes up to an hour, until the color is the shade you want. Keep in mind that the eggs will dye a lighter shade than the dye. Remove the pan from the heat.

To achieve the following colors, try these natural dye materials:

* Pinkish red — Fresh beets, cranberries, radishes or frozen raspberries
* Orange — Yellow onion skins
* Delicate yellow — Orange or lemon peels, carrot tops, celery seed or ground cumin
* Yellow — Ground turmeric
* Pale green — Spinach leaves
* Green-gold — Yellow Delicious apple peels
* Blue — Canned blueberries or red cabbage leaves
* Beige to brown — Strong brewed coffee or black tea
* Brown-gold — Dill seeds
* Brown-orange — Chili powder
* Gray — Purple or red grape juice or beet juice

Through cheesecloth, a coffee filter or a fine sieve, strain the dye mixture into a small bowl that’s deep enough to completely cover the eggs you want to dye. Add two to three teaspoons of white vinegar for each cup of dye liquid. With a slotted spoon or wire egg holder from a dyeing kit, lower the eggs into the hot liquid. Let the eggs stand until they reach the desired color. For emptied eggshells, stir or rotate for even coloring. With the spoon or wire egg holder, remove the eggs to a rack or drainer. Allow the eggs to dry thoroughly. Within less than two hours, refrigerate hard-cooked eggs that you intend to eat.

If you’d like a shiny finish, rub the dyed eggs with a bit of cooking oil. You can also use food-safe white glue to add natural decorations, such as beans, seeds, small pasta shapes or large pieces of spices. Be creative and experiment to express yourself in unique ways.

For other egg-decorating ideas, visit www.IncredibleEgg.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

(ARA) – However you decide to color your hard-cooked eggs, follow these tips if you’d like to enjoy their high-quality protein later:

* Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the eggs at every step, including cooking, cooling, dyeing and hiding.

* If you won’t be coloring your eggs right after cooking them, store them in their cartons in the refrigerator.

* Don’t color , hide or eat cracked eggs. And don’t eat eggs that have been out of refrigeration for more than two hours.

* When coloring the eggs, use water warmer than the eggs.

* Refrigerate the eggs in their cartons right after coloring and refrigerate them again after they’ve been hidden and found.

* If you plan to use hard-cooked eggs as a centerpiece or other decoration and they will be out of refrigeration for many hours or several days, cook extra eggs to refrigerate for eating. Discard the eggs that have been left out as a decoration.

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Breakfast-in-bed
 
It’s all in the presentation. Make assorted fruit, crispy toast and fresh-squeezed orange juice a special breakfast treat by serving them with fancy china, silverware and a brightly-colored, homemade centerpiece. With just a little fabric, ribbon and the right glue, a plain glass cylinder can be transformed into a colorful vase for the breakfast tray. Use it to display a Valentine bouquet or to hold cookies and treats.

You’ll need:
Perfect Glue 1
Cylindrical glass or metal vase
Fabric (2 colors or prints)
Ribbon
Rotary cutter or scissors
Cutting mat
Ruler
Iron
Clothespin

For the bottom layer (closest to the vase), cut a piece of fabric large enough to wrap around the vase with a 1/4 inch allowance on all four sides. Fold edge of fabric over 1/4 inch on top and bottom edges and iron.

Cut another piece of fabric narrower than the first, with the same 1/4 inch allowance. Fold over and iron edges as before. Apply a thin line of Perfect Glue 1 to top and bottom edges of narrower piece of fabric; glue to bottom inside layer of fabric. Layer ribbon over fabric and glue. Once dry (approximately 1 hour), wrap layered fabric band around vase. Apply a thin line of glue to one end and glue to vase. Glue one end over the other; secure with a clothespin at the top edge while drying.

Heart Cards 

Create homemade Valentines with a personal touch by gluing embellishments such as buttons, velvet ribbon and rhinestone clips to heart-shaped cardstock. Write a personalized note and leave them in unexpected places, like your children’s backpacks and your co-worker’s desk or briefcase. These unique Valentine surprises are easy to make and are versatile enough to be used for greeting cards, gift tags and place holders on a Valentine’s Day dinner table.

Perfect Glue offers several inspirational ideas for craft enthusiasts. Visit www.perfectglue.com for more information.
Courtesy of ARA Content

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“The morning blahs, it turns out, is a real phenomenon, with positive moods — happiness, friendliness and warmth, for example — manifesting much later in the day,” says lead researcher Nancy Etcoff, Ph.D. “Interestingly, when we placed a small bouquet of flowers into their morning routines, people perked up.”

Participants of a behavioral study conducted by researchers at Harvard University Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital confirmed they feel least positive in the early hours but reported being happier and more energetic after looking at flowers first thing in the morning.

“What I find interesting is that by starting the day in a more positive mood, you are likely to transfer those happier feelings to others — it’s what is called mood contagion,” says Etcoff. “And, the kitchen is the place where families tend to gather in the morning — imagine how big a difference a better morning mood can make.”

According to Jill Slater, designer for flowerpossibilities.com, adding flowers throughout the home this season is simple. She suggests placing flowers in areas of the home such as the kitchen where they can be enjoyed by everyone first thing in the morning and all day long.

Here is a simple recipe by Jill Slater for creating a unique holiday bouquet to ease away the morning blahs and bring in holiday cheer.

Kitchen Spice

Materials:

* Filled spice jars and rack
* 2 stems of each of the following: red gerbera daisies, red roses and red standard carnations
* Floral clippers and flower food/preservative

Directions:
1. Empty eight of the spice jars.
2. Fill the jars with water that has been treated with flower food/preservative and place them randomly in the rack.
3. Cut the flowers to the height of the jars — the flower bloom should sit on the rim of the jar — insert flowers into jars.
4. Keep jars filled with water, adding water/flower food solution as needed.

For more information visit www.FlowerPossibilities.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Additional flower recipe

Circle of Joy

Materials:
* Rimmed cake plate approximately 10-inches in diameter. (A rim is important, as the cake plate is required to hold water.)
* 1 large red candle
* 5 to 6 stems red roses
* 5 to 6 stems red snap dragons
* 5 to 6 stems leather fern
* Floral clippers and flower food/preservative

Directions:
1. Fill the cake plate half full of water that has been treated with flower food/preservative.
2. Set the candle in the center of the cake plate.
3. Cut the flowers and foliage to about 6 inches in length and circle them around the candle making sure the stems are submerged in the water.

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Without a doubt, Christmas is truly a magical time of year. Spending time with family, friends and loved ones is one of the reasons why Christmas is so special. Creating traditions, sharing fond memories and simply being together adds to the warmth and merriment of the holidays.

A fun holiday activity that practically every family enjoys is the tradition of decorating the house — especially the Christmas tree! If you are like most families, you probably have a few boxes of favorite ornaments that you unpack and proudly display year after year. As you carefully hang every last Santa and snowman, you also make room for a couple of new ornaments that you knew would look fabulous among your old favorites.

According to a new survey by Unity Marketing, approximately 80 percent of American households will be “decking their halls” this holiday season. Most individuals will also be adding a few new pieces to their existing ornament and décor collections, just to keep up with what’s currently in style. “This year, that would be a return to old world charm with dynamic colors like sapphire, ruby red and citrine embellished with metallics. There will also be an emphasis on patterns and textures with glitter, beads and etchings; and such icons as birds, pine cones, winter foliage and berries,” says Susan Atchison, trend manager for Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores.

Whether you are hosting a large holiday party or a quiet gathering with close family and friends, here are some quick and easy decorating ideas that will surely add a festive feel to your home:

* Spray garland with white and silver glitter to give it a sugar-coated vintage look and hang it on your staircase rail or fireplace mantle.

* Repetition helps to highlight your holiday theme. Use poinsettias or hydrangea in your tree, garlands, large glass hurricanes or as accents to other centerpieces. You can also tuck them around photo frames, candles etc. Use your favorite item (holly, flowers, pinecones, ornaments) — the key is to use these items throughout your home.

* Evoke the senses with the smell of home baking and a welcoming feel — burn candles with scents like cinnamon, pumpkin pie.

* Decorate with beads. Wrap the lower portion of pillar candles with colorful strung beads for a glitzy look or create beautiful beaded ornaments (see instructions below) to coordinate with holiday colors.

* Use your favorite fabric to wrap around the base of your tree instead of using a traditional tree skirt.

* Make colorful, festive, placecards for your holiday dinner with sheets of festive scrapbook paper.

* Sew or wrap pillows in holiday fabrics to scatter on the sofa and chairs for quick holiday touches.

For more ideas and the latest trends in indoor and outdoor holiday decorating projects, visit your local Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

* Beaded Icicle Ornaments
Courtesy of Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores

Supplies and Tools:
* 22-gauge floral stem wire
* Beads in assorted sizes
* Wire cutters
* Tacky glue

Directions:
1. Cut wire 6-1/2-inches to 8-1/2-inches long.
2. String small bead on wire, bend wire about 1/2-inch up.
3. String remaining beads on to desired length, covering wire at the end.
4. Bend wire to make hanging loop by placing wire end into last two beads.
5. Add a drop of glue at the top of last bead to secure

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There are many different levels of Christmas craft ideas, some easy to make and others that might take several days to complete. Depending on the end use of the craft will determine when it has to be started. For example, it may take a skilled crafter only a few hours to design a wreath to hang on the door, while a person making a sleigh and reindeer to place on the front yard may take a few days to complete. If it is to be painted add a few more days for the paint to dry.

There are many small Christmas craft ideas that can be simple to make and take very little time. For example, a small metal bucket, about two-inches high can be filled with small cotton balls, about one-quarter inch in diameter and labeled as ammunition for a snowball fight.

Craft Ideas Only Limited By Imagination

Those who attend craft shows for the holidays are increasingly surprised by the creativity involved in the Christmas craft ideas they see offered for sale. Typically, a person will be working on a craft when the idea for something slightly difference will pop up. Imaginative people can quickly turn new Christmas craft ideas into reality simply by looking at an existing product and adding their own special touch.

Materials used to make crafts have no boundaries and stars, made of thin metal can be painted with a winter scene and turned into a holiday craft. Snowmen and old wooden sleds are some of the most often items used in Christmas craft ideas, with many variations of the same theme. Those who lack the imagination often simply replicate an item they saw, sometimes from a picture or sometimes they buy one, take it hope and shamelessly make copies.

If a person wants to make homemade Christmas gifts, they can also buy holiday catalogs to get plenty of Christmas craft ideas, to make at home. This offers the opportunity to give truly unique gifts and put a little of themselves into every present.

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Even in schools, Christmas crafts are usually ready in time for the young students to take them home in time for mom and dad to use as decorations. The plastic can lids filled with plaster of Paris molds of the children’s hand print, painted or decorated in red and green are some of the most popular Christmas crafts used by teachers. Others may use wooden clothes pins decorated with felt and small plastic eyes, supposed to resemble a reindeer. Many of these craft items are treasured by families for years, until passed along to the child that made them when they move out on their own.

For those who use their crafty talents to make Christmas crafts for sale, they are constantly looking for new ideas. It is not unusual to find items that look similar in many different displays as most steal shamelessly the ideas they see at other shows or of project ideas they find in magazines.

No Limit To Crafting Imagination

For the most part, there is no limit on the materials used to make Christmas crafts, from wood and plastic to steel and foam, material that can be formed into wreaths and plaques are some of the most sought-after. Wooden plaques with catchy holiday sayings are easy to produce and require little more than a few hand tools and imagination. For example, wood cut into the shapes of a snowman and a reference to flakes is always a big seller in the Christmas crafts stores.

Crafters can buy a wreath made of grapevines and add their own type of greenery or other artificial flowers to create Christmas crafts to sell to others. Rarely with you find two items that look exactly alike, especially those made by hands in someone’s basement. There is something about the appeal of handmade Christmas crafts that make them popular among homeowners.

Designing Christmas crafts in a variety of colors and designs allow crafters to appeal to a wider audience and increasing their chance of having a successful season. Keeping track of what sold well and making more of those items the following year can help them remain a popular source of Christmas crafts for the following year.

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