Tudor Rose Sampler Guild

The Last of Summer

2011-08-30T06:40:00.000-07:00

After taking a break in July, the guild met in August with a great program - the Bee Skep Thread Palette by Anne C. Steinbach. Denise D. showed everyone how to mount their stitched piece to the wooden thread keeper. Such a sweet little piece, and not a lot of stitching or finishing required!

In September, we'll be having our annual Stash Sale (so start gathering up those charts and fabric now). And then in October, look at the cuteness we have in store...
Betty H. will be showing us how to make these darling wool roving pumpkins, just in time for fall and Halloween!

Ok, now on to Show & Tell. I've done the photos a little differently this time, and there's a lot to share (apologies for the blurry photos on some...operator error).

Speaking of Betty H., who'll be teaching the wool pumpkin in October, she brought some beautiful finishes. This is the needle roll from the book Garden Club by Blackbird Designs.
Betty H. also stitched and finished all the Ellen Chester pieces for the set that appeared multiple years in the JCS Ornament Issues.
Debbie G. brought her finished Malachite Maze by Laura J. Perin.
Deanne S. brought several finishes. The first is the Virtue Sampler by Little House Needleworks.
She also stitched and beautifully finished Shakespeare's Peddler's Sampler Round. Look at that ruffled edge!
And finally, Deanne S. and her students watched the eagles this sampler was based on together, so once stitched and framed, she had her students sign the back. What a great remembrance. This is the Soar Sampler by With Thy Needle & Thread.
Denise D. brought her Hare Pyns from the Patrick's Woods workshop she took a few years ago, so that everyone could see it in person. The Greater Dallas EGA will be hosting this workshop in September, so several TRSG members are in the midst of doing their pre-stitching. What a treat to see how pretty it is finished!
Here's the inside. (I hope mine turns out as nice as Denise's!)
Denise D. also brought her Long May She Wave by Ellen Chester.
The inside is pretty cute!
And finally Denise D.'s Manor Pocket by Marcia Brown & Wendy White.
Laurie B. had three pieces to share, first is her Birds of a Feather Mystery Sampler by With Thy Needle & Thread.
Second is her Miss Lila's House by Carriage House Samplings. I'm so in love with this one!
And finally, Laurie B's Boris by Plum Street Samplers.
Mary D. finished her Betsy Ross by Kreinik.
Mary D. also finished the Birds of a Feather Mystery Sampler by With Thy Needle & Thread.
Mendie C. brought some of her Brazilian Embroidery. Look at this Dresden Plate pattern.
And a close up. (Sorry about the glare on the glass)
She also had this cube finish of more Brazilian embroidery.
Mendie C. did the Brazilian embroidery blocks and her sister made them into two quilts, one for each of them!
Here's a close up of one of the blocks, so you can see the dimension of the flowers.
Stephanie H. did this really cute cube, Just Nan's Spooky Spirits of Tombstone Hill 2. Look at the cute stick pins in the top.
Here's the top view.
Sherry S. has been busy! Look at her stitched and finished Whitman Tin by Sue Hillis. Lots of pieces to this one.
Vicki N. stitched this gorgeous Quaker as a wedding gift. This is Rosewood Manor's A Token of Love.
Vicki N. also stitched and finished Thy Needle by Primitive Needle mounted on a box.
Here's the inside of the box.
Ok, tons of Show & Tell, as I said. I hope you enjoyed seeing everyone's fabulous finishes though! I'm looking forward to next month's Stash Sale. Until then, keep stitching!

2011-06-30T23:35:00.000-07:00

The program for the August meeting will be the Bee Skep Thread Palette by Ann C. Steinbach. Members are asked to pre-stitch the design and Denise D. will teach a mounting technique for the hornbook in the kit. Participants are asked to pay the balance for their kit to Stephanie H. The September program will be the annual stash sale, the Patrick's Woods "Rings of Roses" workshop is scheduled for September 18th, and the Chessie & Me, "Nancy Rensella Sampler" is scheduled for October 6 & 7.

Currently the guild has 111 members.

Gloria M. announced the forthcoming book by Michéal & Elizabeth Feller, The Needlework Collection:1. Kathy M. will be getting copies at the Stitch Niche, so contact her if you want one; they will be available at a significant discount to members. View the book here:
Michéal & Elizabeth Feller Collection
Note: the books are no longer available through Kathy M. at the Stitch Niche.

The Florence Griswold Museum is presenting an exhibition, With Needle and Brush: Schoolgirl Embroidery from the Connecticut River Valley. It is an insightful, illustrated history of schoolgirl needlework. With Needle and Brush contributes to the understanding of the traditions of needlework and provides insight into the nature of women's schooling before the advent of widespread public education. The exhibition of approximately seventy embroideries, watercolor sketches, and portraits will draw extensively on works from private collections, many never before shown publicly. Read more here:
Frances Griswold Museum

Marie Z. presented the program entitled "Jacket Tour: 17th Century Needlework - Jackets, Caps, Gloves, Caskets". In the fall of 2010, she took part in a two-week "Jacket Tour" organized by Tricia Wilson Nguyen (owner of Thistle Threads and one of the lead needleworkers on the Plimoth Plantation jacket project), Susan Albury (owner of Hanging By a Thread-the UK connection) and Virgin Vacations. There were two parts to the tour, England and Scotland, and the group saw many pieces of 17th Century needlework that are rarely, if ever, seen by the public. This program focused on the pieces they saw in England, including pieces at the Museum of London, Victoria & Albert Museum, the Royal School of Needlework, Maidstone Museum, and Costume Museum at Bath. Many of the pieces they saw, although over 400 years old, are in good condition, however many of the blackwork pieces are turning to dust due to the mordants used to set the black dyes. They saw a number of lovely caskets, most of which were behind glass which prevented good photographs. One of their activities was a scavenger hunt at the Victoria & Albert Museum. Tricia had taken some closeups of 12 textile items and each team had to identify the item and record the accession number. They traveled from one end of the museum to the other in their pursuit, and their knowledge of needlework did help them to find some of the items by identifying the technique shown. Marie shared photos of many of the exquisite pieces they had the privilege of seeing.

Show & Tell:
Barbie D. - Love Letters - Joyeux Noel/Blackbird Designs:
Debbie G. - Sew Sew - iStitch;
The Sampler Guild- iStitch;
Sampler Rouge - unknown;
Autumn Haze- Laura J. Perin;
Summer Breeze - Laura J. Perin;
Winter Winds- Laura J. Perin:
Robert H. - Frances Eden- Handwork Samplers:
Betty H. - This I Have Done- Dover Publications;
Sarah Ramey's Cross Stitch- Maggie Bonanomi;
True Love Sampler Bag- Stacy Nash:
Susan K. - Bloom Where You are Planted- Birds of a Feather;
Victorine Delacroix- The Essamplaire;
Thistlewood - Merry Cox;
French Bon Bon Box- Merry Cox;
Colonial Sewing Set- Merry Cox:
Kim L. - Happy Birthday - Blackbird Designs:
Lynn M. - Band Sampler Etui - Tricia Wilson Nguyen;
Flame & Queen Etui- Tricia Wilson Nguyen;
Liberty- Fancy Work/Jane Timmers:
Gloria M. - Folk Art Sewing Box (kit w/Liberty Hill box)- Hillside Samplings:
Jennifer M. - Flame Stitch Huswif - Sampler Cove:
Jean N. - Halloween House- Cricket Collection;
Liberty - Fancy Work/Jane Timmers:
Ava T. - Handwork Necessaires- Homespun Elegance:
Ann W. - French Bon Bon Box - Merry Cox;
French Bon Bon Box - Merry Cox:
Marie Z. - Lydia C. Eichelberger - Carriage House Samplings;
Two Pinkeeps - The Goode Huswife;
Pastel Basket Sampler - Ewe & Eye & Friends:

2011-05-31T16:07:00.000-07:00

The Guild currently has 110/111 members; we had one visitor this month - Kate J.

Mary D. shared information at the meeting about the Nancy Renssela Sampler Class taught by Linda Lautenschlager, of Chessie & Me. Linda discovered the unfinished sampler and tells the history of samplers and motifs. The stitcher then finishes the sampler using chosen motifs; kit includes Lakeside linen and Bell Soie silks. Pending enough interest, Linda will teach the class in Sept. or Oct. of 2012.Sherri Jones, of Patricks Woods, comes this fall to teach "Ring of Roses"; she also includes a lecture about miserly persons.

The Button Lanyard workshop, taught by Guild member, Sherry H. was a lot of fun:
Next month, Marie Z. will give a presentation on "The Jacket Tour" of her trip to London and Scotland.

Show & Tell:
Lynn E. - Drum & Needleroll designed for TRSG - Stacy Nash Primitives;
Colonial Sewing Set - Merry Cox;
Petite Treasures - Merry Cox:
Robert H. - Adam & Eve Sampler - The City Stitcher;
Drum & Needleroll designed for TRSG - Stacy Nash Primitives:
Stephanie H. - Maggie the Mermaid - Fern Ridge Collection;
Little Witches - Fern Ridge Collection:
Lynn M. - Angel Song Thread Palette - Island Cottage;
Autumn Acorn - Kelmscott Designs;
Williamsburg Sewing Case - Merry Cox;
Petite Treasures - Merry Cox:
Vicki N. - Miss Caroline, Limited Edition Doll - Olde Colonial Designs;
Royal Wedding (Stitch Niche Stitch Away design) - Carol Mundle:
Katherine P. - Joy to You ornament - Chessie & Me;
Hare Pins - Danybrod:
Ava T. - Handwork Necessaires I - Homespun Elegance;
Tiny Garden Fob - Shepherd's Bush:

No April Fools. . .

2011-04-30T17:32:00.000-07:00

Jennifer M. began the meeting by asking someone to consider volunteering to design our TRSG annual Christmas ornament.

Checks for guild membership or upcoming workshops can be turned in to Jennifer M. For anyone planning to attend the Patricks Woods "Ring o' Roses" workshop in September (or one of the additional workshops offered), checks for the workshop or membership to the Greater Dallas EGA must be turned in by April 26th.

Marie Z. will make the presentation at the June meeting. Mary D., workshop assistant, reported on opportunities for 2012 workshops. She contacted the ladies at Blackbird Designs, however, they are not doing any teaching next year. Merry Cox never responded. Mary did, however, have a promising conversation with Linda Lautenschlager of Chessie and Me, who may be offering a great sampler opportunity for us. More to come on this. . .
Jennifer M. taught the stumpwork Caterpillar workshop in tonight's meeting.
April Show & Tell:
Debbie G. - Broder freebie - Isabelle Vautier
Sew Golden - iStitch
Queen of Hearts - Charland Designs
Specialty Stitch Sampler - Patty Hurwitz
Florentine Bellpull - Mary Hickmott (New Stitches Magazine)
Pot of Tea banner - Lorri Birmingham
Needle's Work - adapted from Red Border Study - Heron House Designs:
Debbie M. - A Wedding Band - Homespun Samplar
Willow House - Blackbird Designs:Jennifer M. - Scott Lee - Jean Hilton:
Katherine P. - Dash Away All - Primitive Needle
Partridge in a Pear Tree - The Marking Sampler
A Star, A Star - The Sunflower Seed:
Marie Z. - Rachel Holmes - Heart's Content
Faith 1708 - Chartmakers:

Stacy Nash Workshop

2011-03-30T22:55:00.000-07:00

The Stacy Nash workshop was well attended and deemed a success! Stacy brought a number of finished pieces to show. . .
as well as numerous kits of her other designs. . .
Stacy was extremely "laid back" and personable in her teaching style and by the end of the weekend, we all felt like we had made a new friend. We look forward to working with her again.

We stitched and stitched on pin drums, to reach a point of stuffing. . .
Once we finished the stitching portion of the pin drum, we were ready to stuff, stuff, and stuff some more - what a mess! Just when you thought you couldn't get anymore sawdust in that opening, Stacy would compact your pin drum and Voila! you could add another inch. . .
Once the pin drum was completely stitched and stuffed, it was ready for aging, using the walnut crystal mix Stacy provided. See Robert H's demonstration:
Some of our members were able to stitch on the sewing roll companion to the pin drum by the second day of the workshop, but it seems most of us would be finishing our pieces at home. . .still another wonderful workshop!!

Better Late Than Never. . .

2011-03-27T19:43:00.000-07:00

Since the February meeting was cancelled due to inclement weather, Stephanie H. apprised us of adjustments to the program schedule. The Button Lanyard will be taught by Sherry H. at the May meeting, and Jennifer M. will teach the stumpwork Caterpillar at the June meeting.

Dee B. announced that the Stacy Nash kits had been mailed and reminded all that the workshop was still scheduled for the 12th & 13th at the Keller Police Station. The Patrick's Woods "Ring O'Roses" workshop is still scheduled for September.

Michelle L. brought a guest, Sherry, to tonight's meeting. Current guild membership is 110 and we have plenty of $ in the bank!!

Tonight the drawing was held for the Ann Trump reproduction sampler. Katherine P. won the sampler, the prize for the most tickets sold, and the prize for selling the winning ticket. Congratulations, Katherine! Way to go!!

March Show & Tell:
Morrise B. - Needlework Casket - Treasures for Tomorrow:
Pam C. - Echoes of Elizabeth Needlecase (green)- Gay Ann Rogers
Traveling Stitcher - Little House Needleworks:
Sharon D. - Echoes of Elizabeth Needlecase (red) - Gay Ann Rogers:
Barbie D. - Rites of Spring - Blackbird Designs
Love - SamSarah Designs:
Lynn E. - Shepherd's Retreat Sewing Case - Merry Cox
Tend Thy Sheep - Merry Cox
A Christmas Wish - Blue Ribbon Designs
My Country Biscornu pin cushion - Fancy Work (Jane Timmers)
Sampler Noel - Fancy Work (Jane Timmers):
Karen H. - Traveling Stitcher - Little House Needleworks:
Robert H. - Jane Atkinson - Scarlet Letter
James Wilson - Haslemere Educational Museum:
Nancy K. - Farm Fresh, Just Hatched - Prairie Schooler:
Michelle L. - Holly Wool Applique biscornu (TRSG Annual Ornament 2008) - Laurie Brady
Be Mine Stocking - Blackbird Designs (Love is in the Air)
Camille - The Sampler Girl
2000 Years Ago Ornament series - Shepherd's Bush:
Vicky N. - Lady Liberty - Judy Strite;
Gobble Couple - George & Martha Gobbleton - AuryTm:
Sherry S. - Elizabeth, Reed, Sadie Stockings - Shepherd's Bush:
Chessie's Fern Pincushion &Fob - Chessie 'n Me :
Ava T. - L'Marquoir de Laurentine - des Fils et une aiguille:

Ann Trump Raffle Update

2011-02-15T17:26:00.000-08:00

Two weeks from tonight we will be drawing for the lucky winner for the Ann Trump 1797 Ackworth Sampler at the end of the March 1st TRSG meeting. This is a beautiful sampler reproduced by several guild members in 2008.

Additional prizes will be awarded that evening to 1) the member who sold the most tickets 2) the member who sold the winning ticket and 3) winners of drawings for several of the Ann Trump 1797 Ackworth Sampler charts that were donated to the guild from Jacqueline Holdsworth of Needleprint, to be drawn from the remaining sold ticket stubs.

If you took tickets to sell, need tickets to sell, or would like to purchase tickets, please continue reading.

If you would like to purchase raffle tickets at Needlework Boutique in Plano, members will be selling tickets in the store Saturday, February 19th, from 10:00 - 4:00.

If you would like to purchase raffle tickets at the TRSG meeting, Jennifer G. will be selling them at the March 1st meeting beginning at 6:30.

If you would like to purchase raffle tickets by mail, please email the blog address ASAP. I will reply with contact information for Jennifer G. and we will get you entered into the drawing.

If you still need tickets to sell, please send an email to the blog address and I will put you in contact with Jennifer G., who will make arrangements to get tickets to you.

If you took tickets to sell, all unsold tickets, stubs for sold tickets, and money must be returned to Jennifer G. no later than 7:30 March 1st (at the guild meeting). If you will not be at the guild meeting, please make arrangements to have everything returned no later than Sunday, February 28th.

A Perfectly "Fob"ulous Start. . .

2011-01-22T17:59:00.000-08:00

We are off to a "fob"ulous start in 2011!! We have so many wonderful things planned for the year and already have so many excellent finishes to show.

Program chair, Stephanie H., reminded us all of upcoming programs for spring:
February - Stumpwork Caterpillar
March - Jacob's Ladder Needlebook
May - Button Lanyard

Dee B., workshop chair, is still waiting to hear from Stacy Nash regarding kits for the workshop in March. Dee also held drawings for Magic participants,. awarding awesome prizes to many, and gave beautiful stitched initial fobs that she had made for each person who participated in the 2010 Magic program. Thanks, Dee!

It seems that our members took advantage of the Christmas break to stitch and finish projects. What a way to start the year:
Kathy B. - Polar Bear Ornament - Mill Hill:

Mendie C. - Green Needlepoint stitched pillow:

Mary D. - A Child's Prayer (reworked)- /Ellen Chester - With My Needle
Pears - Little House Needleworks:

Debbie G. - Lazy Alph abet - La D Da

Wyndham Needlewoman - Sharon Cohen - Nostalgic Needle:

Betty H. - This I Have Done - gift for Marie Z.:

Stephanie H. - Doggy Love 101 - X-Appeal:

Gloria M. - offered Elizabeth Sheffield - Scarlet Letter - for sale
offered a Daylight stand to anyone who might use it:

Sherry S. - Elizabeth's Stocking, Reed's Stocking - Shepherd's Bush:

Deanne S. - Mouline Rouge - Long Dog Samplers
Must Be Santa - Prairie Schooler 2009 Limited Edition:

Marie Z. - O Birdy stitched and photocopy ornaments - BlackBird Designs
Friends with You (foldout carrier for finishing tools) - My Heart is True - BlackBird Designs & Nikys Creations
Petite Treasures - Merry Cox
Souvenir Book - Merry Cox
Bringing Home the Tree - Pineberry Lane:

A Fabulous Finish. . .

2010-12-16T21:53:00.000-08:00

What a fine finish to a fabulous year! The 2010 Tudor Rose Sampler Guild Christmas Party was tremendous fun and such a success!
There was so much AMAZING food! And Gloria M.'s home was beautifully decorated for the season with not 1, but 2 trees. One completely decorated in Milady's Needle ornaments and the other decorated in ornaments received at past TRSG Christmas exchanges. Her entire house was filled with fabulous stitched pieces. Kim L. was the consummate party hostess leading us bravely through the annual ornament exchange. Just look at the array of beautiful ornaments our ladies shared this year:
It's been a fabulous year for Tudor Rose. . .We have much to show for 2010; just look back through the blog posts if you don't believe me. . .

Please join us in 2011 for another wonderful year with the most prolific, and most accomplished stitchers anywhere.

MERRY CHRISTMAS
&
BEST WISHES for the NEW YEAR

Ann Trump 1797 Ackworth Sampler Raffle

2010-12-16T14:39:00.000-08:00

In 2008, several members joined together to stitch the reproduction of the Ann Trump 1797 Ackworth Sampler, for which raffle tickets are now being sold ($5 each) through February. There will be a drawing for a winner at the March guild meeting. The proceeds of the raffle will be donated to sampler conservation and restoration at The Ackworth School, a Quaker school in England. About 2 years ago, Jacqueline Holdsworth of Needleprint donated the final 10 copies of the reproduction sampler for this very purpose.

The winner of the raffle will receive the stitched, framed piece seen here; the highest ticket seller will receive a $25 gift certificate; the seller of the winning raffle ticket will receive a year's free guild membership. ALL TRSG members are encouraged to participate in selling tickets. Additionally, the 10 Ann Trump Sampler charts will be used as incentives for sellers.
Anyone interested in purchasing a ticket(s) may contact me at the address listed at the top of the blog and I will happily supply you with as many tickets as you would like or provide contact information for the raffle coordinator. Best of luck to ALL. . .

I'm thankful for. . .TRSG

2010-11-20T23:43:00.000-08:00

Workshop chair Dee B. reported that the preliminary deposit for the Stacy Nash workshop is $75 and the deadline for sign up is January 4th. The kit design will be a pinkeep drum and sewing roll especially prepared for our guild, with some required pre-stitching. In addition, Stacy will demonstrate finishing techniques and fabric aging. The dates again are March 12 & 13 and the location is the Keller Police Station. In September, Sherri Jones, of Patrick's Woods will present a workshop for us, the cost of which will be $110 and will require no pre-stitching. Please forward any ideas for programs in 2012 to Stephanie H.; keep in mind that Theresa, of Shakespeare’s Peddler, is available for teaching.

The MAGIC program reveal is scheduled for the first meeting of the New Year in January 2011. Dee B. has the list, so please contact her if you need a reminder of what you committed to stitch.

If anyone has any interest in attending a TRSG retreat, please contact Kim L. There is a fall retreat tentatively scheduled for the weekend of October 14-16, 2011.

The TRSG 2011 slate of officers was elected unanimously:
President – Jennifer M.
Workshop Assistant – Mary D. (works with Dee B.)
Program Assistant – Kim L. (works with Stephanie H.)
Secretary – Jean N.
Treasurer/Membership – Susan K.

Kim L. revealed the delightful Tudor Rose 2010 Christmas Ornament she designed for the guild, entitled "Christmas Every Day."
The last meeting/program of the year is December 7th, and will be the Ornament Exchange and Christmas Party. Please plan to attend with or without an ornament.

Show 'n Tell:
Mendie C. - Brazilian Embroidery Bellpull - Mary Chrichton & Gayle Ratigan:
Jennifer G. - Jingle All the Way Pinkeep Drum - Stacy Nash:
Michelle L. - Wicked Necklace - Primitive Needle:
Gloria M. - French Country Pumpkin Pendant - JBW:Sherry S. - Elizabeth's Stocking - Shepherd's Bush:
Sylvia S. - Halloween Costume Scissor Fob - Birds of a Feather:
Deanne S - Well-Behaved Women Rarely Make History & We’re Not Gossiping Giggle Boxers - Lizzie Kate
Quaker Acorn freebie - Workbasket:
Ava T. - Splendor - Blackbird Designs:
Marie Z. - Peacock Sampler Bag- Stacy Nash:

STITCH-IN

2010-10-29T23:40:00.000-07:00

Programs for the remainder of 2010 are:
October - Stitch-In
November - Christmas Ornament kit (designed by Kim Lewis)
December - Ornament Exchange and Christmas Party

Stephanie H., the new program chair, asked that members forward any ideas or requests for programs in 2011 to her. Email me at the blog address if you need her contact information.

Michelle L. reported that there is no kit price yet for the Stacy Nash workshop, March 12/13, 2011, but the design will be similar to her Boxwood & Berries project.

Barbie D. asked if, in the interest of facilitating blog updates, members would please submit a card or note each month, supplying information on their stitched projects for Show & Tell.

Guild officer elections will be held at the November meeting - the following offices need to be filled:
President (we have a volunteer)
Secretary
New Program Assistant (plans ahead for 2012)
Workshop Assistant (becomes Workshop Chair in 2012) (we have a volunteer)

Enjoy what our members have been stitching:
Kathy B. - Remember Me - Elegant Stitch & Little House Needleworks
Ackworth Variations, Pt. 1, Needle Pocket & Thimble Shoe - Needlemade Designs:
Mary D. - Here Comes Santa - Prairie Schooler, Limited Edition:
Sharon D. - Sonoran Beaded Necklace Kits -
Blue Lariat - Deanna Powell
Pearl Essence - Deanna Powell
Lavender & Lace - Deanna Powell:
Karen H. - Merry Christmas (Joyeux Noel) - Blackbird Designs:
Kim L. - Jenny Bean Halloween Sampler (framed)- Shakespeare's Peddler:
Vicki N. - Thomas- Notforgotten Farm
Sampler Noel- Fancy Work - JCS 2006 Christmas Ornament Issue
TRSG nametag :
Sue S. - 1794 I.C. Rubbens Sampler (Reproduction)- Essamplaire
Hidden Magnolia Sampler- Catherine Theron:

Cyndi S. - Harriet Sibson 1850 - Marking Sampler:
Deanne S. - Acorns - Prairie Schooler:

WOW! I LOVE STASH SALE NIGHT!!

2010-10-03T16:16:00.000-07:00

Tuesday night, September 7, was my husband's birthday AND our annual stash sale! Guess which event was more exciting for me??? Everyone brings the most fantastic things to share, at the most fantastic prices. . . and each of us shamefully INCREASES, rather than DECREASES our STABLE (Stash Accumulation Beyond Life Expectancy). . .it's sad and happy all at the same time!
This year two of our members, Betty H. and Debbie M., set up a table display of all the wonderful handmade items they make and sell at shows and through individual sales. . .

I'm sorry to say that unfortunately, the Jackie du Plessis workshop on the 18th & 19th of September has been canceled. But there are exciting times ahead for TRSG workshops. . .
Stacy Nash, of Stacy Nash Primitives, has been booked for a workshop March 12 & 13, 2011, and will share a custom design for our guild. Sign ups will begin at the October meeting. . .and Sherri Jones, of Patrick's Woods, is scheduled to come September 18, 2011, to teach Ring of Roses. Sign up is available now.
This year's guild Christmas party will be hosted by Kim L. at the home of Gloria M. on the 1st Tuesday of December, at the regular guild meeting time. We hope everyone will choose to participate in the ornament exchange, but invite your attendance at the party with or without an ornament. There will be a sign up for food just like last year.

Once again - our members have been prolific stitchers:
Mary D. - Mary Wigham SAL - Antique Reproduction Sampler from Needleprint:
Lynn E. - Trio of Hearts - Margaret Bendig:

Debbie G. - Enchanted Cottage - unknown designer
Alphabet Heart - BH&G Christmas 2005
Redwork Design on monza cloth - Debbie Gailes
Alphabet - unknown designer:
Variegated Small - unknown designer:
Stephanie H. - Mermaid Needlepoint Scissor Case - Brenda Stofft
The Curse of the Raven - Carriage House Samplings
Mermaids - Country Cottage Needlework:

Michelle L. - Where My Heart Blooms - Blackbird Designs:

Pat M. - Live, Laugh, Love - La D Da:
Lynn M. - Garden Gem Pin Box - Blackbird Designs
Strawberry Garden - Blackbird Designs
Quaker Diamonds - Rosewood Manor:
Jean N. - Danish Cone Ornament - Korssting Til Jul - Ingrid Plum
Poinsettia Ornament - Cross Stitch and Country Crafts - March/April 1994:
Vicki N. - Traveling Stitcher - Little House Needleworks:

Still Catchin' Up. . .

2010-09-16T23:01:00.000-07:00

That's right. I'm still catchin' up, but I'm almost there. . .

At the June meeting, the Tudor Rose scissors arrived for all who placed an order and there was one TRSG 10th Anniversary Tin kit left for a fortunate person to order. . .

Michelle L. reported that there was one Amy Mitten kit that wasn't purchased at the workshop and would be offered to members for only $240. She reminded everyone of the upcoming Jackie DuPlessis workshops - 9/18 is "Carried Away" stitched on 34 ct. fabric wit some over 1 stitches, and 9/19 is "Lady Jane's Garden" stitched on 32 ct. fabric with no over 1 stitches. Sign up at the June meeting; the kit fee requires a deposit of $175; the deadline is July 1.

Anyone who has ideas for workshops or has a specific request for a designer to come and present a workshop should contact Dee B.

Jennifer M. has agreed to be the new guild newsletter point person.

Carol E. address programs for the the remainder of the year:
August - "My Favorite Stitched Piece" and Stitch In
September - Annual Member Stash Sale and Jackie DuPlessis workshops - 9/18 & 9/19
November - Christmas Ornament designed by Kim L.
December - Christmas party

Current guild membership stands at 106!!

And now for the really fun stuff:

Dee B. - Baby Girl Sunshine Line Birth Sampler Chart Pack - Brooke's Books
Providence Sampler (modified) - Brenda Keyes:
Sharon D. - Strawberry Lace Bookstyle Sewing Case - Diane Clements
Long May She Wave Scissor Fob & Needlebook in star tin - Shepherd's Bush
Wynnewood, Whitman Tin Sewing Set - Jane Timmers
Christmas 2007 Biscornu - Just Nan:
Stephanie H. - TRSG nametag:

Michelle L. - Time - Primitivebettys:

Katherine P. - Leaping Rabbit Scissor Fob (modified) - Ewe & Eye & Friends:
Cyndi S. - Little Memories "moo"-in-struck (smocking plate) - Jeffrey (Children's Corner Romper):
Ann T. - Splendor - Heart's Content
12 Days (Day 11 & 12) - Just Nan
Merry Christmas Blue Ribbon Designs:
Ava T. - Traveling Stitcher - Little House Needleworks
"T" - MDesigns:
Marie Z. - Diminutive Sewing Set, Presentation Bag - Merry Cox
Port epingles Tresors d'antan - Au Fil des Reves
Forgery 16 MSP Quaker - Amy Mitten:

I'M BACK!!

2010-09-03T23:05:00.000-07:00

My apologies to everyone for the interminably long absence and a thousand thank yous for your patience. . .Shall we pick up where we left off???

Once again, we had tons of beautiful finishes to share at the May meeting:
Kathy B. - Halloween Spot Sampler - Drawn Thread:Laurie B. - TRSG 10th Anniversary Tin and Fob - Milady's Needle:
Sharon D. - Friends Last - Pine Mountain, the Tie-One-On series
Strawberry Fields Needlecase - Margaret Light (2004 Inspirations, Issue 43)
Glen Eagle (square one) - Jean Hilton:
Denise D. - Free ABC chart - Tokens & Trifles:
Debbie G. - Three Emblems Biscornu - Papillion Creations
Florentine Needlecase - Sue Kerndt, Caron Collection:
Jennifer M. - TRSG 10th Anniversary Tin - Milady's Needle:

Lynn M. - Tudor Knot Pincushion, Sweet Bag, Tape Measure Cloak, Needlebook, and Scissor Case & Fob - Nostalgic Needle
Autopsy of the Montenegrin Stitch - Amy Mitten
Scream House - Just Nan:
Marie Z. - Diminutive Sewing Set - Merry Cox:
Ava T. requested that guild members wear TRSG nametags to the meetings and announced a special drawing next month for those who comply.

Lynn E. brought a guest - Charlotte C., and as of today, the guild boasts 102 members!

Michelle L. handed out corrections for the Amy Mitten workshops and reported that she was slowly receiving information from Jackie DuPlessis regarding the upcoming Carried Away (Saturday, 9/18) and Lady Jane's Garden (Sunday, 9/19) workshops.

There is a possibility that next year we may be able to join with DTG to bring Sherri Jones, of Patrick Woods, for a workshop.

Stay tuned next month for the Secret Stitcher reveal at the June 1 guild meeting, plus progress reports on the MAGIC projects. And one last item: please pay Marie Z. for Tudor Rose scissors that have been ordered on your behalf.

The presentation this month was given by Gloria Moore, who spoke about the birth of her design business, Milady's Needle. She shared her thoughts on what it is like to be a needlework designer in the current economy, the process of designing, and the challenges facing a designer. One of the greatest challenges facing designers is Copyright Infringement and she clarified those things a stitcher can do with a pattern under current copyright law. A lively discussion followed her presentation.

Tea Time. . .

2010-04-23T01:14:00.000-07:00

We celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the Tudor Rose Needlework Guild with an anniversary tea at the Dallas Arboretum on Saturday, April 17th, in the DeGolyer Cafe and Tea Room. What a spectacular venue and marvelous soirée it was! The grounds were a veritable feast for the eyes!

We enjoyed three courses and four tea selections - Signature Zucchini Dill Soup, a variety of Tea Sandwiches, and a selection of beautiful, decadent Desserts.

The donated door prizes were fabulous and each attendee left with her amazing goodie bag, plus TWO door prizes! Designers and shop owners were incredibly generous in their support of our guild. One lucky lady left with the GRAND PRIZE - a stitched model of the Tudor Rose Anniversary Tin, designed especially for the 10th anniversary of the guild by Gloria Moore of Milady's Needle.

A Taxing Season. . .

2010-04-22T17:43:00.000-07:00

Who would believe it's already April and tax season? The year is flying by, but we have lots to show for it. April has been another excellent month for Show & Tell at the monthly guild meeting. See what I mean. . .

Lynn E. - Renaissance: A Trio of Necessaries - Margaret Bendig:
Debbie G. - Thistle Sampler - Irene Fuller:
Karen H. - Catherine's Armchair Pinkeep adapted for a biscornu - Indigo Rose:
Robert H. - Rhoda Hastings, 1863 - Homespun Samplar:
Stephanie H. - The Raven's Roost - The Goode Huswife
Easter Egg - Shepherd's Bush
Under the Blossom Tree - Homespun Elegance
Autumn - Trilogy (Trios)
Merry Motifs - Mosey 'n Me:
Jana K. - Tudor Rose nametag:Kim - Jenny Bean's Halloween Sampler - Shakespeare's Peddler:
Anne T. - Angels Praise - Plum Street Samplers:
Ava T. - Stitching Friends - Trail Creek Farm
Happy Thanksgiving - Shepherd's Bush:

We had one guest - Pam A. - bringing our current membership to 105! Hurray!

Ava T. reminded everyone about the upcoming 10th Anniversary Tea at 2:00 pm on Saturday, April 17th, at the Dallas Arboretum. There will be great door prizes donated by shops and designers - everyone will leave with at least one door prize, as well as a delightful goodie bag full of surprises. Pictures will be taken to commemorate the day. Parking and admission are included in your paid registration; try to arrive early to tour the Arboretum before the tea begins at 2:00 pm.

Michelle L. said she mailed questions to Jackie du Plessis for the September workshop, but has not heard from her yet. The location for the workshop may possibly be the Dallas Zoo. How fun is that?

Lynn E. announced the upcoming Tony Minieri Workshop - Chicago Du Soir Part I and Part II - sponsored by DN&TG, September 24-27. The kit cost is $130; there are 6 colorway choices; deadline to register is May 1, 2010. For additional information, email me at the blog and I will forward your request to Lynn.

Kim L. gave a wonderful presentation on the History of the Tudor Rose. It was a brief history of the uniting of the white rose of York and the red rose of Lancaster into the Tudor Rose as a symbol of the Tudor dynasty. She also included a bit of history of the five Tudor monarchs, as well as a look at how the Tudor Rose is still used as a national symbol in Britain today.

Mrs. Peacock - in the Library - with the Candlestick. . .

2010-03-26T18:59:00.000-07:00

What a phenomenal success the Tudor Rose 10th Anniversary Sampler Workshop with Amy Mitten, Fibers to Dye For, turned out to be on March 6th & 7th!! None of us knew quite what to expect before arriving, but Amy presented the workshop as a "murder mystery" in 10 installments, introducing a new section of the sampler with each new story tidbit. We enjoyed a wonderful 2 days as we soaked up Amy's creativity and artistry. As you can see from the pictures, everyone worked diligently on his/her sampler. . .
At the end of the 10th installment, Amy provided a sealed envelope in each participant's folder, revealing the identity of the needleworking criminal. What fun!!

The sampler is beautiful, and incorporates many specialty stitches, along with some 3-D surface stitching to be attached to the sampler separately. For those who participated in the workshop, I took some incredibly close-up pictures that may help you as you work on your project. If you need to see some of these photos, contact me by email or leave a comment.
We all had such a great time and enjoyed everything about the workshop. . .we hope you will come back to Texas, Amy. Thank you!!

Amy's other designs may be seen below, in the previous post, or at one of these websites: Traditional Stitches; Wyndham Needleworks. . .

Oh, so much to see. . .

2010-03-17T20:56:00.000-07:00

The March guild meeting was very busy. . .Lot's of stitchers brought finished works to show. . .

Kathy B. – 2009 Breast Cancer Awareness project: A Little This & That - Elegant Stitch
Mendie C. – Brazilian Embroidery design of her own creation
Robert H. - Sarah Woodham - Shakespeare's Peddler
Words Alone - Long Dog Samplers
1707 JCS German Sampler - Scarlet Letter Collection
Karen H. - Dogs Leave Paw Prints - Lizzie Kate
Catherine's Armchair Pinkeep - Indigo Rose
Love Grows - Stone & Thread
Deanne S. - Stockings (bones) - Prairie Schooler
Liberty and Justice - Little House Needleworks

Nancy K. - Dutch Strawberries - The Goode Huswife
Cody M. - Rhapsody in Red, Part II - Sampler Cove
Michelle L. - a pendant from Quaker Pendants I - Milady's Needle
Mele Kalikimaka - Monster Bubbles

Gloria M. received her stitched piece from her Secret Stitcher:
Brite Birds - Barrick Samplers

Our very own Gloria Moore, of Milady's Needle, brought her 2010 Nashville Market designs to show. Here are a few pictures and you can see more at her blog: Milady's Needle

Betty H. reminded us all that she would be selling items at a booth in the Dallas Quilt Show on March 13th & 13th - Booth 185 & 186 to be exact. . .

The Jackie du Plessis workshop is scheduled for September 18th & 19th; looks like we will be stitching Carried Away and Lady Jane's Garden:

You can see more of Jackie's pieces at her website: It's Fine-ally Finished

Jennifer asked that anyone needing a name tag kit, contact her. If you need her contact info, email me here on the blog and I will forward your information to Jennifer.

Sharon passed out handouts for a stitching retreat in February of 2011. If you are interested and need more information, contact me here at the blog and I will forward your information to Sharon.

We had one new member - Pat B. and one visitor - Cathy K.

Amy Mitten, Fibers to Dye For, was in town for her presentation to guild of the Tudor Rose 10th Anniversary Sampler Workshop - March 6th & 7th. While she was here, she came to the monthly meeting to present a program entitled "New Year's Gifts for a Queen". She had many beautiful slides to show of sweet bags used in giving gifts to the queen as well as those used by the queen to bestow gifts to others. Amy is an extremely talented designer and we are very fortunate that she has designed a "mystery" sampler for the 10th anniversary of the guild. The workshop promises to be a real treat for all who attend. Her other designs may be seen here: Wyndham Needleworks or here: Traditional Stitches

First Stitched Exchange with Secret Stitchers

2010-02-14T08:26:00.000-08:00

Secret Stitchers have been giving little gifts to each other for months now, however, the February guild meeting was the first time to exchange a stitched piece. There was quite a bit of excitement and anticipation as packages and bags were opened and gifts were revealed. What a treat to see all the lovely offerings! We truly have the finest stitchers of any needlework guild anywhere! Just take a look - - -

The “gifters” won’t be revealed until June, but here is a list(alpha order in the interest of fairness) of who received what:
Barbie – Summer Iris Pincushion – Blackbird Designs
Brandy – Hollyhock Farm Sewing Roll & Coverlet Pinkeep – Stacy Nash
Dee – Mon Coeur freebie pin cushion – Jeanette Douglas
Francesca – Block Ten from Christmas @ Hawk Run Hollow pillow – Carriage House Samplings
Gloria - beautiful card announcing the future arrival of a surprise, framed piece
Janis – Quaker motif mounted in a Milady’s Needle turned pincushion
Kathy B. – Glad Tidings Fob – Shepherd’s Bush
Kathy M. Four Little Acorns freebie biscornu – Indigo Rose
Kim– Halloween Kitty Fob – Cat’s Whiskers
Laurie – Quaker Acorn framed sampler – The Workbasket
Mary – Winter Sampler (JCS Ornament Issue 2009) pinkeep – Little House Needleworks
Michelle – With My Needle flatfold – Heartstring Samplery
Pam – Jenny Bean’s Pin Tuffet (Dec) – Shakespeare's Peddler; Bonus Chart-Mini #1 Octagonal needlebook cover (Jan) – Rosewood Manor
Several members brought finished projects for Show & Tell:

Mary - Flea Market Souvenir - Blackbird Designs:
3 Santas from Kris Kringle - Prairie Schooler:

Jennifer - Be You to Others Sampler - Hillside Samplings:

Sherri - Lauren's Voice Sampler - LaDDa:

Stephanie - Potpourri Heart - Sweetheart Tree:
Joy Tree - Hinzeit:

Jana - Special Stitcher needlebook - Elizabeth's Designs:

We had one new member, Sharon, whose addition now brings our membership to 101!, and one guest, Debbie, who both brought wonderful stitched items to share:

Carol E. gave an extensive slide presentation on "Samplers in the DAR Museum Collection". For information on the collection, the slide presentation, or the museum itself, contact the museum office at 202-879-3241.

Commitment cards were collected for the 2010 MAGIC program.

Members were given the opportunity to vote on their choice for the upcoming Jackie duPlessis workshop September 18th & 19th. Teaching pieces may be seen at It's Fine-ally Finished.

A reminder was given for the upcoming Amy Mitten workshop - March 6 & 7 at the Keller Police Station. Email for additional information.

The Start of a New Year

2010-01-29T16:52:00.000-08:00

Well, here we are in 2010, with a brand new year ahead of us to stitch, stitch, stitch. . .

The January meeting was held on Tuesday, January 5th, and what a beginning it was. Ava started us off as the 2010 guild president, and although she has big shoes to fill in Sylvia's absence, she promises to be more than up to the task! The first guild meeting of the year saw the culmination of the 2009 MAGIC program - My Annual Good Intentions Contract. Quite a few members had "reveals" of completed or partially completed projects, as you can see from the pictures below, but even those members who were unable to finish a project received a little prize for participating and bringing projects in to the meeting. In the coming year, each member will have the opportunity to set his/her own goals for the 2010 MAGIC program by signing a contract listing up to 5 projects targeted for completion throughout the year. For each completed project or goal, the member will be rewarded by having his/her name entered into the the end-of-year drawing for a one year free membership in 2011.

Take a look at our 2009 MAGIC projects:

Anne - Splendor - Heart's Content:

Ava - Maria Antoni - Reproduction Sampler from The Essamplaire:

Codi - Angel of Autumn - Lavender & Lace:

Francesca - Irish Blessing - Twisted Threads:
Kathy - Ethnic Sampler - Joan Masterson:
Jean - Elizabethan Eights - :

Lynn - Tree of Life with Dragon - Nostalgic Needle:

Pam - Brittany's Quilt - Indigo Rose:
Robert - Sampler-A Dutch Beauty - Permin of Copenhagen:

Stephanie - Silk Cardinal - Crossed Wing Collection:

Susan - Martha Edlin Sampler - Reproduction Sampler from The Essamplaire:
Mendie - Jeanette Douglas Treasures Accessories:

Christmas Party/Ornament Exchange

2010-01-29T16:36:00.000-08:00

Look at all these these beautiful ornaments!!
The Christmas Party/Ornament Exchange at the December meeting was a tremendous success. Ava's house was absolutely beautiful! What a delight to meet in her home! Thank you, thank you Ava for being the ever gracious hostess. The ornament exchange was awesome fun; a great time was had by all. And the food - oh, the food! Where are the pictures of the food??? It was a veritable feast! We all had to be rolled out at the end of the evening. . .

Is this an amazing looking bunch of stitchers, or what???

November meeting & holiday party

2009-11-29T20:11:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who came out for the November meeting! We saw some beautiful projects finished, and received kits for the exquisite ornament Gloria Moore so graciously designed for us. We may also now be over the 100 member mark!

December's meeting will be not quite a meeting, but more of a party. We will not be meeting at the church this month, instead Ava Terry has kindly invited us all to her beautiful home in Southlake. If you didn't get the email that Marie sent out please send me an email through the blog, and I will forward the directions to you.

September meeting

2009-08-31T18:48:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the first Tuesday of the month - hope to see everyone at the meeting! Don't forget, we're meeting at a new location - Compass Church at 8888 N. MacArthur Blvd. in Irving, TX 75063. The building is more of an office park, not a traditional church. We met in a smaller room last month, but we will be meeting in the sanctuary (at least, I think it's the sanctuary - we peeked in a window, but I never actually went in the room. Hope to get some pictures tomorrow!) from now on. If you would like to arrive early to stitch, please contact Sylvia for instructions on how to get into the building.

We will be having the annual stash sale this month. Pull out your supplies that you just know you'll never get around to using, put a price sticker with your initials and a price on them and bring them to the sale - there are always wonderful treasures to be found! It's a great place to sell & buy stash, and it's a great fundraiser for our guild!

Reminder & new meeting location

2009-07-06T13:52:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder, there is no meeting scheduled for July. Our new meeting location for August is at

Compass Christian Church
8888 N. MacArthur Blvd.
Irving, TX 75063

From what I understand, we will have to use a different room for this meeting, and Guild President Sylvia Stecker has requested that you email her if you are planning to attend. I am not entirely comfortable giving out an email address on a blog, so if you do not have her address, email me through the blog and I will email you. Sorry, it's sort of convoluted, but I don't want her inbox suddenly overflowing with spam!

The August 4th program will be a presentation on the Tudor Rose emblem given by Kim Lewis.

Marie Zaczkowski will be sending out a newsletter in a few days with more information.

Hope everyone had a wonderful 4th!

June meeting

2009-06-08T01:11:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful, productive meeting this past week. Highlights (at least, everything I was able to write down) were -
We are up to 97 members, and aiming for 100 by the guild's 10th anniversary in April.

Jane Timmers was in town and brought the pre-stitching kits for the workshop in September. Now for the time to actually do the pre-stitching...

We discussed the possibility of celebrating the 10th anniversary by having a tea at the Dallas Arboretum, and having a special piece by Amy Mitten for the occasion.

We will have a new meeting place for August - Compass Christian Church. I do not have an address at the moment, but will post one as soon as I do.

We had so many finished objects brought to the meeting that they filled 2 tables! I am trying to put some of the pictures I took here - I'm learning on the fly ;-)

The program for the June meeting was a wonderful talk by Anne Tuley on Mountmellick embroidery - just beautiful!
http://www.mountmellick.net/activities/history_of_mountmellick_embroidery.htm

Here's a quick rundown on upcoming meetings -

July - no meeting
August - a talk on the Tudors
September - our annual sale
October - a lecture/slide show on Tennessee Samplers
November - work on the Christmas ornament, designed by Gloria Moore of Milady's Needle
December - Holiday party at Ava Terry's house

That's all for now - please forgive the odd placement of photos; I'll get better, I promise.

Testing

2009-06-01T17:00:00.000-07:00

Test... Test... There will be a more formal update Wednesday, after the guild meeting...