Answering Challenges - Part 2

 Recently in the East Kingdome of the SCA a number of challenges were issued.  I decided to take up four of the challenges, with two projects.  This post discusses the second project [the first project is discussed in this blog post.

This second project was to answer Wool Applique Cushion by Sarah Davies and  "Ooo, Shiney!" - A Goldwork Embroidery Challenge by Amalie von Hohensee. The cushion challenge was for "a reading cushion, pin pillow, or similar project of appliqued wool, in the style of the 14th century Tristan hanging in London or the Jesse Wurzel in Branshweig." The referenced pieces are hangings, one of which I have had the opportunity to see at the V&A, though not too closely.  The Tristan hanging is a large wool applique hanging which has gilt leather couched at the edges of motifs. In addition to the many photos on the V&A website, I was fortunate enough to take some when I was in London, which can be seen here.  I mentioned to Mistress Sarah the similar, though somewhat different technique piece at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In further discussion about the availability of the gilt leather, a group's efforts to recreate a similar piece in Sweden. Armed with all of that information. I started looking for what to use for the gilt leather -- a goldwork form I have not tried before - with good reason, it is hard to find something to use. A friend also working on this challenge had excellent results with some purchased and cut down leather which she then gilded herself.  Then mostly by chance, I came across this item on Amazon. 

Having taken much more time than I planned on the first piece, I had little time for this piece.  I focused on "pin pillow" and decided that I could do within the time available. I raided the wool scraps available in my studio and pulled several out, together with assorted threads. 

Since I am familiar with the basics of applique, I knew I could turn those materials into a pin pillow.  The reference pieces, in addition to the large figures, have assorted floral motifs, so I decided to use a floral motif for my pillow.  I added also a frame for the top, to have more applique and more chances to play with the leather. 

With those laid down and stitched in place with silk running stitches, it was time for the leather.  I cut individual fringes off the bunch and worked them in my hands a little bit to make them a bit more pliable. Then I carefully couched the leather down around the main flower and the edges and corners of the frame.  I was pleased with how well the leather worked around corners and bends.  The thread used to couch the leather down was a gold color silk.  The threads show, but I believe they do not detract from the piece. 

Finally, I selected a fabric for the back of the pillow and made up an applique of my badge, which I also use as a "maker's mark" using silk thread to decorate and afix it to the back.  

I have not yet assempled the pin pillow, but I plan to use crewel wool to blanket stitch the pieces together, stuffing as I go. 

Summary and what I learned

I look forward to working in this form for a larger piece.  Perhaps adding the intarsia technique used in the piece at the Met and others. I have some of the leather obtained by my friend and I intend to experiment with that and my own gilding, as I think they may be closer to accurate. Perhaps in the future this will lead to a piece for Period Competency with Athena's Thimble. 

Answering Challenges - part 1

 Clearly, this will be a sometimes blog.  When I have something to talk about, it will be here.

Recently in the East Kingdom of the SCA, a number of challenges were issued. I decided to take up four of them by making two projects. 

The first project covers two challenges: Lace Challenge by Barbeta Kyrkeland and Stretch that Comfort Zone! by Amy Webbe.  

The one category in Athena's Thimble I do not yet have Competency in is Needlelace. I may be that rare embroiderer who likes both counted and uncounted embroidery, but the lack of ground fabric is different to both of those.  Amy referred to "that 'thing' that intimidates" and Needlelace has been that thing for me for some time. I decided on Reticella lace.  There are numerous extant pieces including Reticella, both as insertion lace, and as edging  It is a late [SCA] period needlework form.

I started, as I start most things, doing some reasearch✤ (spoiler alert - not enough).  Ultimately, mostly worked from the ground preparation and stitch information in The Open Canvas, and Cut-Work Embroidery, mostly from The Open Canvas. Clearly, though I missed some important points (more on that below). 

I found a piece of a reasonably even-weave scrap linen in my scraps bin, and pulled some Bockens 35/2 linen thread from my stash.  Projects from stash are always satisfying - not just because they use up stash, but because there is neither going out nor waiting for orders. 

I started by hemming the fabric and marking the center lines. Three rounds of stitching (running stich, whip stitch, then buttonhole stitch shored up the edges so they would remain stable once the threads were removed.  I carefully clipped and removed threads, leaving 4 in the middle of each edge, and being very careful to make sure they were the same four on opposite sides. Those middle threads were then strengthened with needleweaving. The diagonal threads were added and wrapped. 

Main bars set up. Pinned to a pillow.

With the main bars woven and wrapped, I pinned the whole thing to a lace pillow over the pattern for general guidance. Spoiler alert: I should have done the tacking stitches. 

Following the stitch instructions in The Open Canvas, I did the corner arcs, the circle and the middle arcs. 

• Just needs the ends woven in.

I removed the piece from the pillow, wove in and clipped the ends and it was done. 

Summary, and what I learned. 

Tension was a big problem.  Two sources described tacking or couching the work to the pattern, however, I was working mostly from The Open Canvas which does not include tacking the fabric down. However, that does expect the work to be done on a needlepoint style canvas, which is stiffer than the linen ground I used. Even pinning the work to the pillow, my fabric did not allow for adequate tension -- tacking would have helped that. The buttonhole stitched elements got loose and twisted. 

I also should have gone with my usual inclination of working as small as I can get away with. It was not until after finishing this piece that it occurred to me to add YouTube to my research.  I now have plans .... so many plans. 

This piece will be mounted to a backing fabric, padded, and mounted to a box for the storage of trinkets. 

✤ Books referenced:

Cave, Oenone, Cut-Work Embroidery and How to Do It

Schorn, Marie, Creating a Reticella Rosette, The Compleat Anachronist #130

Armbruter, Carol, The Open Canvas

Why, hello Thursday

As I mentioned, for a little while anyway I'm dropping this blog to "when I have something to say" -- but I'm still going to bore you with my Thursday honesty:

I'm going to need more of these.... 

Current project list/status (SCA/Historic):

• C&L expert panel piece; Couched cord. Um, DONE.  Blogged on Monday. 
• C&L expert panel piece; Couching around applique.  Plan is in hand.  In fact, I expect to go to my studio this evening to gather the materials. 
• C&L expert panel piece; Underside couching.  Another small piece is planned for this.  I can't say much, because it is going to be a gift.  I'll keep careful notes and do a nice long process blog when it's been given. 
• C&L expert panel piece;  Marshall Hanging.  Going away this weekend and this is going with me.  Possibly there will be a "here's the status" post next week.... maybe.
• C&L expert panel piece; Icelandic altar frontal based piece.  Well, it has a name :)
• Class this is (mostly) done, for now. The embroidery of the sample is done just have to do the making up. 

Sleeping projects (SCA/Historic): Being honest, I don't expect much to be done with these until after September, though maybe the event cushions will get pushed out.

• Hem stitched square -- This has kind of gone into hibernation in my event basket, to come out when I have just that couple of minutes to do something.
• That silk tunic I did for my husband -- still need to pull that out and get the seam finishing done, and maybe plan some more embroidery for it. 

• Other garb waiting in the wings... Also in planning are a couple more coifs -- and shifts and shirts.  
• Research.  I've started trolling for inspirational ideas.  My Pinterest boards are overflowing with "oh, that looks cool...."
• Event cushions.  Got that lovely red fabric, just need to make the cushions.  There's enough to make "quick" envelope style cushions AND have enough for better box cushions down  the road.... maybe. 

Current project list/status (Modern)

• Bay of Fundy Scarf.  Done -- Just have to block it and then photos will be posted.  Why, yes, it still needs to be blocked.  
• Northern Lights Cowl --  I've been enjoying this one, though in the interest of getting some embroidery done it may need to be relegated to "pick it up occasionally, but only as a reward for getting some other stuff done."  Also, waiting rooms and such. Closing in on the end.  
• Clothing for work.  Can we just take it as read that I need to do this and don't know when it's going to happen?  On the other hand, I did manage to knock out three skirts -- two of which can also be sun dresses -- thanks to JoAnn's cool "Style in an Instant" fabric (on deep sale).  
• Studio project. A number of things have migrated back to the studio (where, admittedly, they belong), and a few things in the studio need to come out.  I need to determine a day each month for specifically concentrating on getting everything back to where it belongs, which should help keep this room organized. This has not been happening and it really shows in many ways.I did pick up the parts to work on changing up the one closet.  

Future project plans: (look, a new section) AKA "In the queue"

• Knitting plans include  fingerless gloves with more of the alpaca that I'm using on the Bay of Fundy scarf.  I also got some lovely blue silk/wool blend that I'll need to find "just the right pattern" for, not to mention a stash that does not fit in the cedar chest which is supposed to be the limiting factor on yarns... 

Blog notes:

• There will be the Thursday status updates, and otherwise some occasional posts updating progress. 
• I have started my resources page (so far it has ONE thing on it).  I do have plans to add to it  A Bibliography page will have to wait until after September I think, it will be a massive undertaking. 

So, that's it for my plans for the coming weeks.  

Couching & Laid Work - Couched Cord

For my Couching & Laid Work back up pieces, I needed one showing simple couched cord as a decoration.  I decided to make a cover for my Kindle Paperwhite for less obtrusive use at events.

First, I obtained a cover to fit my Paperwhite, with space for the cover to be folded over.


I chose a design from La fleur de la science de pour traiture et patrons de broderie façons aralïque et ytalique par Fr. Pelegrin, de Florence, which can be found here. Published in 1530. I chose the "bones" of the design found at 22r. Four of the motifs fit the middle of my cover well.

Next up to was to obtain materials.  I found a lovely piece of brown linen, then a trip to my local needlework store yielded tapestry weight wool for the cord and silk for couching down. I selected "my colors" of blue and gold.

Construction started with cutting a piece of the linen larger than the open cover.   I hemmed the piece of linen and assembled folded in for the book cover.  I did this to ensure that the embroidery will be  centered properly on the cover.

Here the Kindle is in the cover.  I would have preferred a larger turn over, but the way the Kindle fits in the cover precluded that.  Once the cover is done I will lace it in place to keep it better anchored.





Next, I pinned the design, which I had traced, onto the cover.

Unfortunately, the brown  linen is too opaque to use the light box.  Therefore, I had to choose another transfer method.  Since I have no "pounce" on hand, I chose the stitching method.  I carefully stitched through the paper, following the lines of the design, using a simple back stitch.  I used yellow for the places I intended to couch down yellow wool, and blue for the blue -- figuring that in this way I would limit the amount of the stitched guide lines that would need to be removed later.  Then, I carefully tore away the paper.  A thinner tracing paper would have made this easier, but with careful, steady work, it all came off without distorting the stitching. 

There we are, all outlined and ready to go.  Kind of pretty that way, too, really like this design.  Yes, those are my glasses.  I often do fine work without my glasses on -- my nearsightedness means that very close work is easy for me without correction. 

Next, it was time to start laying cord.  I started with the larger section of the blue.  For that section only I pinned the "cord" in place (though as I worked I adjusted the laid cord to more carefully follow the guide lines. 

First round down.  Since the subsequent cords would need to be "woven" through for the over/under, I carefully couched on either side of the guide lines.  Now, I was sure I had taken pictures of the next phase, but apparently I did not.  I took a large tapestry needle and loosely wove the inner blue cord, then couched it down.  Next I did each of the yellow ones. 

Blue done, starting on yellow.

All done the basic couching

Having finished the basic couching, I removed the guide lines that were showing, to have a cleaner look.  At this point, the only couching is to anchor the loops and one either side of each cross. After removing the guide lines, I went through and placed additional couching. 

And, there it is, all done -- on the cover.  My plan is now to do an applique on the back -- with couched cord around the edges. Once the linen cover is done and laced into place, I may couch cord around all the edges, but that will be addressed once the back is done. 

Close up of one quadrant

Thursday, yes, I'm still being honest

As I mentioned, for a little while anyway I'm dropping this blog to "when I have something to say" -- but I'm still going to bore you with my Thursday honesty:

Current project list/status (SCA/Historic):

• C&L expert panel piece; Couched cord. Design and project have been determined.  I expect to get the design transferred to fabric, possibly as soon as this weekend.  This will be a fairly small piece, making it good for a travel piece.
• C&L expert panel piece; Underside couching.  Another small piece is planned for this.  I can't say much, because it is going to be a gift.  I'll keep careful notes and do a nice long process blog when it's been given. 
• C&L expert panel piece;  Marshall Hanging.  I got to work on this over the weekend at an event.  I expect it to have a dedicated work space by the end of this weekend. 
• C&L expert panel piece; Icelandic altar frontal based piece.  Well, it has a name :)
• Class this is (mostly) done, for now. The embroidery of the sample is done just have to do the making up. 

Sleeping projects (SCA/Historic): Being honest, I don't expect much to be done with these until after September, though maybe the event cushions will get pushed out.

• Hem stitched square -- This has kind of gone into hibernation in my event basket, to come out when I have just that couple of minutes to do something.
• That silk tunic I did for my husband -- still need to pull that out and get the seam finishing done, and maybe plan some more embroidery for it. 

• Other garb waiting in the wings... Also in planning are a couple more coifs -- and shifts and shirts.  
• Research.  I've started trolling for inspirational ideas.  My Pinterest boards are overflowing with "oh, that looks cool...."
• Event cushions.  Got that lovely red fabric, just need to make the cushions.  There's enough to make "quick" envelope style cushions AND have enough for better box cushions down  the road.... maybe. 

Current project list/status (Modern)

• Bay of Fundy Scarf.  Done -- Just have to block it and then photos will be posted.  Why, yes, it still needs to be blocked.  Maybe this upcoming long weekend. 
• Northern Lights Cowl --  I've been enjoying this one, though in the interest of getting some embroidery done it may need to be relegated to "pick it up occasionally, but only as a reward for getting some other stuff done."  Also, waiting rooms and such.
• Clothing for work.  Can we just take it as read that I need to do this and don't know when it's going to happen?
• Studio project. A number of things have migrated back to the studio (where, admittedly, they belong), and a few things in the studio need to come out.  I need to determine a day each month for specifically concentrating on getting everything back to where it belongs, which should help keep this room organized. This has not been happening and it really shows in many ways.
• Future project plans: (look, a new section) AKA "In the queue"

• Knitting plans include  fingerless gloves with more of the alpaca that I'm using on the Bay of Fundy scarf.  I also got some lovely blue silk/wool blend that I'll need to find "just the right pattern" for, not to mention a stash that does not fit in the cedar chest which is supposed to be the limiting factor on yarns... 

Blog notes:

• There will be the Thursday status updates, and otherwise some occasional posts updating progress. 
• I have started my resources page (so far it has ONE thing on it).  I hope to add one or two things a week. That page will be web resources.  A Bibliography page will have to wait until after September I think, it will be a massive undertaking. 

So, that's it for my plans for the coming weeks.  

Semi-Hiatus.

I have come to the conclusion that I need to pull back a little on this blog.  I will continue to blog, but it will be more on a "when I have something to say" basis.  I will post on Facebook and Google+ as public posts when there is a new entry -- or you can "subscribe" by email to the right there.  I will continue my weekly Thursday "keep Kandy honest" posts.

This may result in more posts, it may result in less, my hope is that it will result in meatier posts, not so many "oh, here's a cool thing, I'll say more later" posts.

I'll also be working on updating the DONE pages and the Resources pages.

This will also mean more embroidery time.

And, who knows, maybe I'll be back to a regular schedule after September.

Meanwhile, here's what I was doing this weekend:

Another Thursday, not much different

I promised I would try to be honest and post each Thursday even when there is nothing much to say, so yes, this is pretty much a cut and paste from last week.  

Current project list/status (SCA/Historic):

• C&L expert panel pieces -- I'm working on finalizing my list and the designs for the individual pieces.  Once determined, each will have an entry here. I now know why I haven't settled on the couching around applique piece -- I was waiting for an exciting thing to show up.  Also, I think I've nailed down the design for the couched cord piece.  
• Class this is (mostly) done, for now. The embroidery of the sample is done just have to do the making up. 
• Marshall Hanging -- Progress!  I got some work on this.  Soon it will have its own work space in my house for much more work.
• Hem stitched square -- This has kind of gone into hibernation in my event basket, to come out when I have just that couple of minutes to do something.
• That silk tunic I did for my husband -- still need to pull that out and get the seam finishing done, and maybe plan some more embroidery for it. 

• Other garb waiting in the wings... Also in planning are a couple more coifs -- and shifts and shirts.  
• Research.  I've started trolling for inspirational ideas.  My Pinterest boards are overflowing with "oh, that looks cool...."
• Event cushions.  Got that lovely red fabric, just need to make the cushions.  There's enough to make "quick" envelope style cushions AND have enough for better box cushions down  the road.... maybe. 

Current project list/status (Modern)

• Bay of Fundy Scarf.  Done -- Just have to block it and then photos will be posted.  Why, yes, it still needs to be blocked.  Maybe this upcoming long weekend. 
• Northern Lights Cowl --  I've been enjoying this one, though in the interest of getting some embroidery done it may need to be relegated to "pick it up occasionally, but only as a reward for getting some other stuff done."  Also, waiting rooms and such.
• Clothing for work.  Can we just take it as read that I need to do this and don't know when it's going to happen?
• Studio project. A number of things have migrated back to the studio (where, admittedly, they belong), and a few things in the studio need to come out.  I need to determine a day each month for specifically concentrating on getting everything back to where it belongs, which should help keep this room organized. This has not been happening and it really shows in many ways.
• Future project plans: (look, a new section) AKA "In the queue"

• Knitting plans include  fingerless gloves with more of the alpaca that I'm using on the Bay of Fundy scarf.  I also got some lovely blue silk/wool blend that I'll need to find "just the right pattern" for, not to mention a stash that does not fit in the cedar chest which is supposed to be the limiting factor on yarns... 

Blog notes:

• Still working on a three day a week pattern -- Monday for SCA/Medieval/Renaissance related; Tuesday for post 1600 to modern related and Thursdays for status updates.
• I have started my resources page (so far it has ONE thing on it).  I hope to add one or two things a week. That page will be web resources.  A Bibliography page will have to wait until after September I think, it will be a massive undertaking. 

So, that's it for my plans for the coming weeks.  

A quick project

This past Saturday a friend was elevated to the Order of the Laurel (for those not in the SCA, this is our highest award for Arts & Sciences -- a very big deal).  Many people pulled together to prepare clothing, food for those visiting her prior to the ceremony, and regalia.  Clothing was also prepared for her husband to wear for this fancy event.  Mid week a call went out seeking "points" for his clothing.

Points are cords or ties used to hold clothing together. A gentleman's hose or pants are held to his doublet with points, for instance.  Sleeves may be tied onto gowns with points.  The ends are finished with aglets.  Those of you who love words may recognize this as the word for the metal or plastic tube tightly fixed around each end of a shoelace.

And that's basically what points are -- laces, in fact, in some listings they are referred to as laces. 

I knew I had a little time available and stepped up to make three long black points.  These are made with Splendor silk and silver color aglets:

I used pattern 4 "This Flat String" from The Compleat Anachronist #108 (also available on line at Fingerloop.org).  It makes a lovely braid that bears a very strong resemblance to modern flat shoelaces. 

Here, all three braids that I made are shown, one coiled around.  Including the aglets, they were 18-20 inches long.  Each was made with five loops (or "bowes") of 4 strands each.  This made it easy to prepare the thread as Splendor is in a divisible thread of 12 strands, made up of three groups of 4 strands each.  After cutting to length, it was easy to separate out to the number of lengths needed.

 A nice flat braid.

 Thin when looked at from the side.

Comparison of flat and on its side.  

I enjoyed the quick project of making these points, and I think our kitten enjoyed it a lot as well. 

I have a "future project" in mind to make more fingerloop braids, following the patterns listed in this booklet and in another book "Tak V Bowes."  Though there are a number of patterns, some of them are differentiated only by the way the colors are set up, the "formula" is the same.  I want to explore the differences that are made by changing the colors (they don't have to be all one color) -- using multiple colors, and changing which fingers the colors start on. 

And now, back to Couching and Laid work embroidery and research!

Thursday -- that means it's almost the weekend.

Time for honesty...

Current project list/status (SCA/Historic):

• C&L expert panel pieces -- I'm working on finalizing my list and the designs for the individual pieces.  Once determined, each will have an entry here. I now know why I haven't settled on the couching around applique piece -- I was waiting for an exciting thing to show up.  More later.  
• Class this is (mostly) done, for now. The embroidery of the sample is done just have to do the making up. 
• Marshall Hanging -- Progress!  I got some work on this.  Soon it will have its own work space in my house for much more work.
• Hem stitched square -- This has kind of gone into hibernation in my event basket, to come out when I have just that couple of minutes to do something.
• That silk tunic I did for my husband -- still need to pull that out and get the seam finishing done, and maybe plan some more embroidery for it. 

• Other garb waiting in the wings... Also in planning are a couple more coifs -- and shifts and shirts.  
• Research.  I've started trolling for inspirational ideas.  My Pinterest boards are overflowing with "oh, that looks cool...."
• Event cushions.  Got that lovely red fabric, just need to make the cushions.  There's enough to make "quick" envelope style cushions AND have enough for better box cushions down  the road.... maybe. 

Current project list/status (Modern)

• Bay of Fundy Scarf.  Done -- Just have to block it and then photos will be posted.  Why, yes, it still needs to be blocked.  Maybe this upcoming long weekend. 
• Northern Lights Cowl --  I've been enjoying this one, though in the interest of getting some embroidery done it may need to be relegated to "pick it up occasionally, but only as a reward for getting some other stuff done."  Also, waiting rooms and such.
• Clothing for work.  Can we just take it as read that I need to do this and don't know when it's going to happen?
• Studio project. A number of things have migrated back to the studio (where, admittedly, they belong), and a few things in the studio need to come out.  I need to determine a day each month for specifically concentrating on getting everything back to where it belongs, which should help keep this room organized. This did not happen in January, or February, or March... Help me April, you're my only hope!

Future project plans: (look, a new section) AKA "In the queue"

• Knitting plans include  fingerless gloves with more of the alpaca that I'm using on the Bay of Fundy scarf.  I also got some lovely blue silk/wool blend that I'll need to find "just the right pattern" for, not to mention a stash that does not fit in the cedar chest which is supposed to be the limiting factor on yarns... 

Blog notes:

• Still working on a three day a week pattern -- Monday for SCA/Medieval/Renaissance related; Tuesday for post 1600 to modern related and Thursdays for status updates.
• I have started my resources page (so far it has ONE thing on it).  I hope to add one or two things a week. That page will be web resources.  A Bibliography page will have to wait until after September I think, it will be a massive undertaking. 

So, that's it for my plans for the coming weeks.  

Tool talk -- light pad.

There are many ways to transfer an embroidery pattern to the ground fabric (when that is being done, as opposed to following a chart).  Not one way works for all patterns and fabrics, but one of my favorites is the use of a light box.  I've had a large one that I haul around for some time.  It's big and clumsy, but gets the job done. 

But, with the advent of LED lights, came the light pad.  I found one on Amazon for less than $50, and hemmed and hawed about buying it (after all, I had a perfectly usable light box).  My husband gave it to me for Christmas.  It is this one .  It is so delightfully light weight, and the diffused light is just perfect for transferring designs.  

The pad comes with a lovely carry tote, which is roomy enough to include a roll of painter's tape (less chance of residue on the surface), paper and a few supplies.  It comes with a few sheets of a parchment-like tracing paper.  I haven't used that yet, but I look forward to playing with it. 

Inside the carry tote, I keep my pad in the foam bag that it came with and keep the foam corner protectors on it... just for a little added security. This is so much easier to take with me when going to an arts day, or off to teach someone. 

The light pad has a lovely clear surface, and even a grid on two sides.  In this shot, you can see reflection of my hands holding the phone/camera and a painting on the wall behind me. 

The power button also adjusts the brightness.  My old one has a rocker switch which is, in some ways, more convenient, but there is no delay when turning this one on, so the difference is negligible. More expensive pads might have a separate switch for selecting brightness.

It's very very slim -- barely thicker than the slot for the power cord.  It runs on USB. There was not an adapter, but those are easy enough to get just about anywhere.  It does not have a battery (it can't be "charged up") -- again, look to the more expensive models for that. The cord is flat, and quite long.

I'll be sure to take some "process" shots using this light pad to show it in use. 

My old light box has a larger working surface, and will not be discarded, but it will be kept tucked away in the closet in my studio -- it will be good to have two for classes and A&S gatherings -- but it will be my lovely light weight light pad that will be pulled out most of the times that it is time to do design transfer. 

Oh, and yes, it's a very modern process -- but it is also an echo of an old one.  There are wood cuts showing design transfer being done at a window, and even over a light candle.  This modern marvel is much safer than the candle, and an easier angle than the window.

Stay tuned

No Tuesday night post this week, for a number of factors.... mostly having to do with everyone in two office complexes apparently leaving *at the same time* -- then a snafu at my CSA pick up,  Oh, right, and my lack of having gotten ahead like I've been meaning to :)

Marshall Hanging Update

Saturday I was at an event and took my Bayeux Tapestry inspired piece -- the one I call the "Marshall Hanging"

I got some more done on the figure representing my husband.  That figure, especially the top of it, is proving to be the hardest to do.  Not for any problem with the design, but for the location. It is *just* in the middle of the frame -- and *just* far enough from all edges to make it difficult to reach. I can work on only a little of it at a time.

Photo by Lissa Underhill

Having done a little of that work, I moved to the second cat figure.  Since I am often asked, I tracked the time it took to do the outline.  This outline took one hour and twenty seven minutes.  Now, I was chatting often while working on it, working at home with less distractions will go faster.

I very much enjoyed the day, sharing my work, learning about that of others, and spending time in the "modern middle ages."  Now it is time to get my planned downstairs work space set up so I can really motor through the rest of this piece.


This week I'll be working on embroidery, working on research, and preparing materials for teaching embroidery at a demo this coming Sunday.  On to 'all the thread, all the time.'

Oh, wait... Thursday.

Silly holidays -- I've been off calendar all week.  Of course, that doesn't explain why most of today I had to keep reminding myself it isn't Friday...

Current project list/status (SCA/Historic):

• C&L expert panel pieces -- I'm working on finalizing my list and the designs for the individual pieces.  Once determined, each will have an entry here. 
• Class this is (mostly) done, for now. The embroidery of the sample is done (as reported on Monday), just have to do the making up. 
• Marshall Hanging -- This is going with me for Saturday's event, and I'm hoping to have enough done to do a post.
• Hem stitched square -- This has kind of gone into hibernation in my event basket, to come out when I have just that couple of minutes to do something.
• That silk tunic I did for my husband -- still need to pull that out and get the seam finishing done, and maybe plan some more embroidery for it. 

• Other garb waiting in the wings... Also in planning are a couple more coifs -- and shifts and shirts.  
• Research.  I've started trolling for inspirational ideas.  My Pinterest boards are overflowing with "oh, that looks cool...."
• Event cushions.  Got that lovely red fabric, just need to make the cushions.  There's enough to make "quick" envelope style cushions AND have enough for better box cushions down  the road.... maybe. 

Current project list/status (Modern)

• Bay of Fundy Scarf.  Done -- Just have to block it and then photos will be posted.  Why, yes, it still needs to be blocked.  Maybe this upcoming long weekend. 
• Northern Lights Cowl --  I've been enjoying this one, though in the interest of getting some embroidery done it may need to be relegated to "pick it up occasionally, but only as a reward for getting some other stuff done."  Also, waiting rooms and such.
• Clothing for work.  This may have to be moved up a bit, as one of my favorite skirts just gave its last.  Now I really need to find pink fabric I like because I cannot imagine not having something in that dark rich pink in my wardrobe.  Of course, I *could* get around to doing the hem on the black and white, that would help.  Update -- got that pink fabric.... now to make it up. 
• Studio project. A number of things have migrated back to the studio (where, admittedly, they belong), and a few things in the studio need to come out.  I need to determine a day each month for specifically concentrating on getting everything back to where it belongs, which should help keep this room organized. This did not happen in January, or February, or March... Help me April, you're my only hope!

Future project plans: (look, a new section) AKA "In the queue"

• Knitting plans include  fingerless gloves with more of the alpaca that I'm using on the Bay of Fundy scarf.  I also got some lovely blue silk/wool blend that I'll need to find "just the right pattern" for, not to mention a stash that does not fit in the cedar chest which is supposed to be the limiting factor on yarns... 

Blog notes:

• Still working on a three day a week pattern -- Monday for SCA/Medieval/Renaissance related; Tuesday for post 1600 to modern related and Thursdays for status updates.
• I have started my resources page (so far it has ONE thing on it).  I hope to add one or two things a week. That page will be web resources.  A Bibliography page will have to wait until after September I think, it will be a massive undertaking. 

So, that's it for my plans for the coming weeks.  

Always look....

This post kind of relates to my post in January about cross-shopping -- it's about keeping your eyes open when shopping.

Sunday I went to JoAnn's.  I had their Memorial Day weekend coupon (20% off entire purchase, including sale items).  I specifically went to buy fabric for a new pink skirt, my favorite having given up (quite dramatically -- fortunately while taking it off for the night).  Now, I could have gone in, found the pink fabric, and left.  But I never go to JoAnn's without looking at the sales -- and especially at the "red dot" fabrics.

Most of the time it's junk -- or at least fabrics not even remotely calculated to be useful to me.  This trip, however, this lovely red fabric stood out.  It's a nice heavy cotton canvas with a yellow chain stitched design.  I love how the design echoes architectural design elements that stretch back as far as the 12th Century.  So often when you *can* find "medieval-oid" designs in the home decorating department they read more like 14th to 16th centuries.  The two yards I bought will provide a number of cushions for taking to events -- and probably some other "cover the modern" uses as well.

Now, normally, I would have passed this fabric by -- or just admired it and put it down after seeing the over $50 a yard price tag. But it was on the clearance rack at $21 - AND all the clearance was an additional 50% off -- AND don't forget that coupon.

So, 2 yards for $16.80 that would originally have been over $100.  Not bad -- and just for keeping my eyes open.  The cushions will not, unfortunately, make their way to the studio table and "done" pages for this weekend upcoming, but soon.  Maybe.

Oh, and I *did* get my pink fabric, too.  So there will be a pink skirt back in my wardrobe ... at some point.

That "eyes open" shopping has gotten me a lot of useful things at excellent prices. I've found dishes, decorating items, clothing, tools and many other items just by being open to noticing things.

It also works well for "end of year holiday of your choice" gifts -- I think the first thing I bought this year was in January.  Of course the biggest issue with those is remembering where the items are by "end of the year."

Progress!

While I'm working on my designs and schedule for the projects for my expert panel in September, I returned to a project that I really wanted to complete well before this -- and certainly before the "all couching all the time"  -- the sample for my German Brick Stitch class.

Here is a picture of the completed embroidery.

Because I made the mistake of working it all the way to the frame, the edges aren't quite neat enough, but I'll fix that once it's off the frame and I can get at the holes.  Then I'll trim the edges and do a lining.  The line where the design changes will be the bottom, and the top and bottom will be the opening at the top of the bag.  I'll attach lining pieces to the two ends then sew the lining seams (side and bottom).  The bag I'll fold wrong sides facing and fold in the side seams and over stitch - first with some linen, and then with one of the silks for a decorative edge.  That will prevent the need to turn it after stitching which can put extra stress on those seams.  The lining bag will tuck in, and then a drawstring will go in at the top.  Photos of the finishing will be a future blog.

Overall I'm happy with the piece as a teaching piece.  I would normally do all one design, but I wanted the teaching piece to have an easier and a more difficult counting design offered.

Now, on to preparing for next weekend's event, where I will be working on the Marshall hanging and enjoying time with other fiber arts folks.

Return of the Thursday update

Not a lot of progress to report, but I have to keep honest...

Current project list/status (SCA/Historic):

• C&L expert panel pieces -- I'm working on finalizing my list and the designs for the individual pieces.  Once determined, each will have an entry here. 
• Class this is (mostly) done, for now. Some work done on the teaching/sample project, because I feel I have to get this off my plate. 
• Marshall Hanging -- No, nothing new.    
• Hem stitched square -- This has kind of gone into hibernation in my event basket, to come out when I have just that couple of minutes to do something.
• That silk tunic I did for my husband -- still need to pull that out and get the seam finishing done, and maybe plan some more embroidery for it. 

• Other garb waiting in the wings... Also in planning are a couple more coifs -- and shifts and shirts.  
• Research.  I've started trolling for inspirational ideas.  My Pinterest boards are overflowing with "oh, that looks cool...."

Current project list/status (Modern)

• Bay of Fundy Scarf.  Done -- Just have to block it and then photos will be posted.  Why, yes, it still needs to be blocked.  Maybe this upcoming long weekend. 
• Northern Lights Cowl --  I've been enjoying this one, though in the interest of getting some embroidery done it may need to be relegated to "pick it up occasionally, but only as a reward for getting some other stuff done."  Also, waiting rooms and such.
• Clothing for work.  This may have to be moved up a bit, as one of my favorite skirts just gave its last.  Now I really need to find pink fabric I like because I cannot imagine not having something in that dark rich pink in my wardrobe.  Of course, I *could* get around to doing the hem on the black and white, that would help.  
• Studio project. A number of things have migrated back to the studio (where, admittedly, they belong), and a few things in the studio need to come out.  I need to determine a day each month for specifically concentrating on getting everything back to where it belongs, which should help keep this room organized. This did not happen in January, or February, or March... Help me April, you're my only hope!

Future project plans: (look, a new section) AKA "In the queue"

• Knitting plans include  fingerless gloves with more of the alpaca that I'm using on the Bay of Fundy scarf.  I also got some lovely blue silk/wool blend that I'll need to find "just the right pattern" for.  Also, attending Maryland Sheep & Wool this weekend will undoubtedly produce *something* new for the queue.... 

Blog notes:

• Still working on a three day a week pattern -- Monday for SCA/Medieval/Renaissance related; Tuesday for post 1600 to modern related and Thursdays for status updates.
• I have started my resources page (so far it has ONE thing on it).  I hope to add one or two things a week. That page will be web resources.  A Bibliography page will have to wait until after September I think, it will be a massive undertaking. 

So, that's it for my plans for the coming weeks.