I think we are definitely in need of something new to look at here, don't you think? Last year's updates were mostly the same projects over and over. Hopefully this year I'll be making a bit steadier progress and adding new designs (and finishes) every month. This is my current 'big' project, though it is not exactly a large design really. It is Prairie Schooler's "Where There are Bees". The finished design will measure only about 8-1/2" by 6-3/8".
Although the chart calls for 32 count white Jobelan, I am trying to work from my stash as much as possible and not order too much in the way of new supplies (though I am kitting up something else so will have to fill in the gaps for the materials I am missing--more on that to follow later). I am using DMC floss and found a piece of 32 count Siena linen in cream. Here are my first stitches.
I've been adding a few stitches every day and it is amazing how quickly the work progresses even with just fifteen or twenty minutes of 'work' a day. Mostly I have been stitching on my work breaks and just a row or two before bedtime. It's coming along nicely and I am pleased withe the colors (a nice, simple color palette). Prairie Schooler is one of my very favorite designers and stitching these charts always makes me feel quite calm and contented--just what I need to balance other stresses in my life these days.
A little close up. Can you tell I like to jump around on my work--moving from motif to motif as whim hits me?
And for something smaller (instant gratification since it should stitch up quickly?) I have started another Prairie Schooler design. It is from their "Designer Series" called "From the Heart". I know February and Valentine's Day is long past, but I am fond of February designs since that is my birth month. I'm stitching the alphabet design and will turn it into a mattress pincushion. I think the reverse will have some motif from one of the other small designs on the chart and then something stitching along the sides--need to think about what.
I've got two other small designs in progress but as they are gifts and I don't want to spoil the surprise should the recipients happen by, I will wait to share my progress. I might just be tempted to share a little teaser, however . . .