Stitchy Happy

We have a finish here in the Lilac Thicket.  I have finished Cottage Garden Samplings "Snowflakes are kisses from Heaven".  This is part of the "My Garden Journal" series.

This was stitched on Zweigart 32count Lugana in the color "Platinum".  It was stitched with the called for fibers from DMC, Weeks Dyed Works and Gentle Arts Sampler Threads.  I started it around December 23, 2016.  I finished the design stitching on 1/18/17 and signed it today 1/19/17.

I very much enjoyed stitching this piece, the fabric was lovely to hold in my hand as I stitched.  I particularly like the cardinals in this design.  As I was working the border I realized I had 2 blocks more than I should but it came together and you can't tell.  I did have problems with knotting on the WDW Icicles color which is used for the snowdrop flowers. I straighten my floss with a damp sponge and apply Thread Heaven but still had knotting problems.  I had some issues with my counting as I stitched the last 5 snowflakes and ripped stitches out to my frustration.

Plans have not been made as to how I want to fully finish this.  I am leaning towards a stand up.

This piece reminds my of my little brother Rick who died in May of 2014.  I will forever think of him when snowflakes fall.  He will be sending his kisses to the family that dearly misses him.

My next project is to finish the Mirabilia Holiday Cherub for 2000. It is a complimentary design at: http://www.mirabilia.com/category/free-graphs/ It about half way finished and I would like to finish this before a new project is started. Here is my progress so far:

I have stitched this with 28 count white cashel and the DMC called for except for the blue sky which on the chart says "black" which is 310.  Since I am stitching it for a new baby girl I wanted it to look like a blue sky and I cannot tell you which specialty thread it is.  I stitched it diagonally so it would give the illusion of a mottled sky rather than in horizontal or vertical lines which you get stitching that way.

I washed this and the picture is taken while it is damp.  To the left of the upper wing you may see a yellow stain.  My husband moved this on the table and it was laying on a damp yellow sponge.  That sponge discolored the white fabric.  I should have washed it right then but I didn't and it has been sitting a couple of months.  Some of the stain is gone.  I am going to look to see if I can find a stain remover that may take the rest out.  Lesson learned.

Two different designers are going to be offering series this year that I am interested in.  The first is offered by Little House Needleworks and it is the Early American's Series.  I have signed up through Stitches 'n Things for the auto shipment.  Here is a preview picture of that series.

The second is the 12 Days of Christmas which is being offered by Hands On Designs.  I have ordered the called for floss and fabric.  I am having the auto ship feature through The Silver Needle for this series.  Here is a preview picture of that series:

I did order thru Etsy two of Sandra Sullivan's Homespun Elegance designs.  They have been shipped.

I look forward to receiving these shortly. I have really had my interest peaked in primitive style stitching and we can only blame one person for that.  The Primitive Stitcher on You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp_zQ6Dh2bWgk7aZB3SjGfw

So for now I am going to wish you stitchy happiness.  Sandi Jo