february 1, 2016 enewsletter

Where Samplers Rule

The Attic, Mesa, AZ Toll-Free: 1.888.94-ATTIC (1.888.942.8842) www.atticneedlework.com

THE ATTIC Issue No. 16-03

T E L E P H O N E( 4 8 0 ) 8 9 8 - 1 8 3 8

2016 February 1 www.atticneedlework.com

J u s t 1 5 m i n u t e s f r o m t h e A i r p o r t a t t h e

SE CORNER OF DOBSON & GUADALUPE

1 8 3 7 W . G u a d a l u p e R d , S u i t e 1 0 9

M e s a , A Z 8 5 2 0 2

T O L L - F R E E : 1 . 8 8 8 . 9 4 . A T T I C

February Sampler of the Month

In the beautiful 14-page brochure that includes the chart, the inside cover says this about Miss Mary Ann Bournes’ sampler: An unusual and charming English Sampler stitched during the reign of George III, depicting a large central motif of a beeskep surrounded by flowers, bees, butterflies and two large doves set within leafy arbours together with a cottage in a pastoral scene. All are contained within a stunning border with several varieties of flowers including roses and carnations. The relationship between beekeeping and gardens is centuries old. Skep is derived from the Nordic word Skeppa and they were first brought to England with the Saxons when they surged Westwards circa 410AD after the Roman Empire collapsed. Bees were a valuable asset to villagers; besides being a medicine, honey and beeswax were used in many ways: making mead, as a sweetener, curing and preserving food. Beeswax was used for candles and waterproofing clothing. Tithes and rents were sometimes paid in honey, beeswax or swarms of bees. After an intense search we have found three possible Mary Ann Bournes in our time frame. All lived in Kent, which is also known as the Garden County. It is a beautiful part of England with fields of Hops, which are used in the making of beer, and there are wonderful Oast Houses where the hops are hung to dry. The original sampler was stitched with silks on uneven linen of approximately 40(w)/46(h) ct. The model has been stitched with Au Ver A’ Soie silks on 40ct Lakeside Linen Sand Dune. Our design has been based on the mellowed colours of today. Besides some small areas of satin stitch and a handful of eyelets the sampler is worked in cross stitch over 2 threads with Mary Ann’s name in cross stitch over 1 thread. The sampler has been graded at intermediate stitcher; however, it is not beyond an enthusiastic beginner. The bee, after all, denotes industry. Mary Ann’s beautiful sampler is her legacy to us. Sandra and Nicola hope you enjoy stitching her.

“Miss Mary Ann Bournes” fromHands Across the Sea Samplers

During February save 15% on your purchase of 2 of the following:* Chart $30* Hand-Dyed Lakeside linen (price depends on the linen count and your preferred

margins, i.e., 40c w/2-inch margins, $41)* Au Ver A’Soie silks as charted, $103.20 ~ Tudor silks (best for 45c & higher), $78.75

~ the overdyed silk conversion shown on the following page, $138.85 - $170.85, depending on your silk usage (I’m a thread miser and would need less.)

R i g h t , t h e b e a u t i f u l French Au Ver A’Soie silks on L a k e s i d e ’ s V i n t a g e Sand Dune

http://www.atticneedlework.com





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Above, my model on 52/60 with Gloriana’s Tudor silks. The Coral Red wasn’t an exact conversion from the AVAS coral, and so for the bird I changed it to a red, Cinnabar. And for one other color, we’re hoping a new color coming at the Nashville Market will work nicely.

. . . Hands Across The Sea Samplers

There were two colors for which we just couldn’t find a conversion. And the conversion we’ve listed at 2 prices, $138.85 or $170.85, the latter including 2 skeins for 4 colors, if you’re more comfortable with more instead of less.

I am honored to present the first sampler reproduction from this new sampler reproduction team, Nicola Parkman of E n g l a n d a n d S a n d r a M o f fi t t o f A u s t r a l i a .

Hands Across The Sea Samplers is a new design studio formed by two friends, Nicola and Sandra. Their studios specialize in reproducing fine antique samplers to the highest standards from Nicola’s personal collection of museum-quality samplers. While mainly English, the collection is extensive and diverse, and several have been exhibited and featured in reference books. Nicola Parkman lives in a beautiful little cove overlooking the sea in Cornwall, England, a magical place full of inspiration. Nicola collects antique needlework and is interested in 18th and early 19th century sampler s and i s e spec ia l l y drawn to beaut i fu l border s and speciality stitches. Sandra Moffitt lives in the Blue Mountains of Australia and is surrounded by its world-acclaimed National Park, an area known for its stunning beauty. Sandra loves all types of needlework from the 18th and 19th Century. Schoolgirl Samplers are a great favorite, and she enjoys working on samplers with a challenge.

The sampler is stitched with Au Ver A’Soie’s Soie d’Alger (with a DMC conversion) on Lakeside’s 40c Vintage Sand Dune ~ on 40c it measures 16.75 x 19.25. The beautiful AVAS silks are pictured on page 1. Several of you have asked for a conversion to hand-dyed silks, pictured at the left.

Meet the Talented Ladies from . . .

We are honored to be their USA stockist. Go here if you wish to visit their Website, one that you will surely want to bookmark for regular reference as it features a wealth of interesting and educational needlework information.



https://hands-across-the-sea-samplers.com

https://hands-across-the-sea-samplers.com

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Attic Needlework presents

Summer School 2016 Aug. 26-28 in beautiful Mesa, AZ

A weekend

featuring samplers, smalls & talks by

Milady’s NeedleMilady’s NeedleMilady’s Needle Needlemade DesignsNeedlemade DesignsNeedlemade Designs

NeedleWorkPressNeedleWorkPressNeedleWorkPress Priscilla’s PocketPriscilla’s PocketPriscilla’s Pocket

Samplers RememberedSamplers RememberedSamplers Remembered & Samplers in & Samplers in & Samplers in

My AtticMy AtticMy Attic

“Pieces of

Olde”

sam

pler

s

Sampler &

Needlew

ork Handbook

Sampler &

Needlew

ork Handbook

Sampler &

Needlew

ork Handbook

Love, Love, Lust,Lust,

CrossCross StitchStitch

** Other Other Passions

Passions

Saturday, February 6, 10:30-12:30 Beginning Linen This class is appropriate for both beginning stitchers and anyone wishing to refine their skills. The class project is Linda/Needlemade Designs’s Tulip needlebook design, and the $30 fee includes her expert instruction + materials. Class fee is due upon registration.

Every Thursday

Customer Appreciation/Stitch-In, Thursdays, 4 - 8 PM For as long as I can remember, The Attic has been open on Thursday nights and, along with that, provides the setting for customers to gather to share their needlework with others. This is an opportunity for me to host a weekly time with our customers, to show them the newest and greatest, preview new designs and great needlework stuff, and also see what you’re stitching! As a valued customer, you are invited to join us!

Sunday, February 21, Sampler Sunday, 1 - 4 This special gathering of sampler lovers moves back to the 3rd Sunday of the month for February. Please register as refreshments are served ~ fee $10.

. . . Parts 1 & 2 are coming to The Attic the weekend of June 24 -26, 2016. Full details on subsequent pages.

Merry Cox’s Ophelia . . .

Recipes for a Cure cookbook for a donation of $14.95 (or more) with fabulous time-tested recipes as well as complimentary designs from 11 designers.

Sherri Jones/Patrick’s Woods Workshops:*An Afternoon Leisure Basket*Lounging Hare Sewing Box*+ TBA

March

Our 2016 Junipine Retreat is scheduled for 3 PM Thursday thru Sunday at 11, February 25 - 28 and, with a cancellation, a spot has opened, which will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. The $300 free includes 3 nights’ accommodation in a four-person creekhouse (which has two bedrooms & two baths, full kitchen, fireplace & living area), the opening reception on Thursday at 5 PM, and a few surprises. Bring your own WIPs, or a new project, and join us for a fun weekend of needlework in a stunning setting.

June

February As an Attic Addict member, in February save 15% on your purchase of the following: * All charts/kits with a ❤ heart symbol

* All non-Lakeside Hand-Dyed linens, in-stock only* Soie d’Alger’s Au Ver A’Soie Silks, in-stock only

I know, I’ve been saying this for a long time, but now we are down to the last few BCRF cookbooks ~ Don’t miss out on this opportunity to donate to a very worthy cause and get a wonderful cookbook at the same time.

Saturday, February 20, Our Semi-Annual Framing Frenzy. This is your opportunity to save 20% on your custom framing order, including frame, mat, and fillets, when you let Sandy use her expertise in selecting the perfect frame to enhance your needlework. Give her your budget, your likes and dislikes (“I don’t like gilded, but I love primitive”), make a $20 deposit, and she will do the rest. The discount does not apply to the framing labor charge nor to readymade frames. All orders will be processed in the order received, and orders with deadlines are ineligible for the FF discount. Additionally, you should know that any non-FF incoming orders will receive preference in the order of completion, which makes it difficult to give a time estimate, but to save the 20% it is important that you understand the order of completion.

August 26-28Savethe

Date!

November 13-15

January 13 - 16,

2017

Our 2017 Sampler Symposium with Merry Cox as our featured designer, where she will teach * Stitch, Mend & Mark* Flowers for My Lady Sewing Purse & Accessories* Flowers From Thy Garden as an optional workshopThe Symposium will also feature other sampler-related topics as part of the “main event.”

Jackie du Plessis/It’s Finally Finished will be teaching three very special projects. Stay tuned for specific dates & details.

November2017

March 4 - 6 ~ Nashville Market ~ We will be there to shop for you!

2016 Nashville Market Day, Saturday, March 12 A special day to shop, shop, shop for all of the latest and greatest in our industry. Doors open 9 AM for Attic Addict members and 10 AM for the general public.



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Ellen Riggotts Work will be among the offerings at our 2016 Summer School, “Pieces of Olde,” coming in late August. It is in the process of being reproduced now. An email from dear Barb alerted me to its availability on eBay last August, and it seemed to be a ‘must have’ with its Lea School stitched along the bottom. Linda Danielson/Samplers Remembered kindly offered to chart it for me, and we’re now in the process of selecting the colors, based on the colors as seen on the back, offering a larger and more interesting palette for me than the faded front. The lovely border actually has a pale salmon pink among the leaves! The antique is stitched on 48/52 linen, and I will most assuredly stitch it on 52/60 linen with Gloriana’s Tudor silks. The chart will be included as part of your Summer School Tuition fees.

This sweet hand-created and hand-painted new Liberty Hill piece, Pennsylvania German Child’s Sewing Boxe, measures 6.5” x 4” x 5” high. Here’s what the designer tells us about her inspiration for this design: “The idea for this treasure came from a little worn box that I purchased from a small Pennsylvania antique shop. It was painted dark green with a faded scene and had a rusty lock on the front. After looking inside the box, I thought it might have belonged to a child because of the contents, which included a scrap of old fabric with a few pins, a tiny bell, and a partially torn Reward of Merit card. The box called to me, and so I decided to reproduce it as closely as possible.” This box is painted in the same dark green with a sweet scene on the front, and the lock is replaced with a small rusted heart. Inside the box you’ll find the scrap of fabric with pins, a small rusted bell/scissors fob (scissors not included), a Reward of Merit card, AND a small house-shaped threadboard. A February delivery is anticipated, so reserve your box now, as with every Liberty Hill box, very limited! $50

Coming from . . .

A Sneak Peek at What’s Coming at Summer School

This photo shows the petiteness

of this sampler as measured by

the 4-inch scissors in the photo.

. . . Liberty Hill



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Our 2016 Stitch-Along from The Scarlet Letter

We are privileged to have on exhibit this stunning sampler ~ the photos try to capture its beauty!

Details about this sampler are on the following page.

Well, we still don’t have the back-ordered silks, 2 colors, but we are publishing the SAL schedule anyway. We are setting bi-monthly (every two months) stitching goals, with the hope that that will provide ample time for each of you to stitch this exquisite sampler. Please complete the band pictured below that extends the width of the sampler during January and February. The outside diamond bands are satin-stitched, and I would recommend leaving those until the very end so your silk doesn’t get





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Our 2016 Stitch-Along from The Scarlet Letter

Mary Hammand 1732 ~ Here’s what Marsha says about this stunning reproduction:In the early eighteenth century samplers began to evolve from long vertical bands into more rectangular shapes. They began to incorporate more pictorial and scenic images and scenes such as those found on seventeenth century canvas and stumpwork pictures. Alphabets, numerals and verses prevailed but the sampler evolved both as an exercise in needlework technique as well as a vehicle for creative artistic expression. Common themes were scenes based on biblical stories, but the popularity of bucolic, pastoral scenes increased. Mary Hammand's sampler/canvas work piece melds these themes with a traditional sampler at the center surrounded by pastoral images on either side of it. It's interesting to note that she spelled the surname of her parents "Hamond" and her surname "Hammand"---perhaps attributable to her lack of delight in learning? Stitches used in the sampler include cross stitch over one and two threads of linen, counted satin, back and eyelet.

A special kit discount of 10% is available if you purchase all of the kit parts, chart ($42) + linen (price varies depending on count) + AVAS silks ($184.90)

Here’s the Wisconsin Historical Society’s online description:Dark linen ground; completely cross-stitched in silk threads of green, blue, red, white, brown, and yellow; alphabet at top; pictoral border of greens, reds and tans: a girl with a sheep at her feet in the lower right corner, a boy with a dog at his feet in the lower left corner, trees and birds up the sides, solid floral border at top and bottom; some eyelet stitches; inscriptions: "Gods Love and goodness/ has been shown in sending fro/m his blessed throne his/ blessed only son to die that w/e the race might run. *MH*/The days of our years are threescore years and/ ten and if by reason of strength they be foursco/re years yet is their strength labour and sorrow/ for it is soon cut off and we fly away. Psalm/ the XC verse the 10./Delight in learning soon will b/ring a child to learn the hard/est thing./Mary Hammand Her S/amplar [sic] Aged 11 years November t/he 19th 1732."

Object HistoryThe completely stitched ground indicates the sampler was made in England.

I’m reluctant to show you this photo because it just doesn’t represent the true linen color with the silks. It is a lovely soft green from Lakeside, and the choice of several for this stunning reproduction.

Righ t , the or ig inal , housed in the Wisconsin H i s t o r i c a l S o c i e t y, which I was privileged to see in person on a visit there in July 2012.



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Merry Cox’s Ophelia Workshops in June 2016

I am honored to introduce you to Merry’s Ophelia and publish photos, workshop prices, and hotel information for this very special Attic event. We are privileged to host Merry & Ophelia the weekend of June 24-26 at the Hyatt Place in Mesa, located just 15 minutes from our new Attic, with shuttle service available to and from the shop. Reservations with the hotel can be made by calling 888-492-8847 or 480-969-8200. You must ask for the “Attic Needlework” group rate (King or Queen $99) or go online to http://www.phoenixmesa.place.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html These rates are available 3 days pre and post the weekend for any of you who wish to come early or stay longer. The rates include a deluxe continental breakfast, unlimited high-speed Internet access, 24-hour access to the StayFit@Hyatt fitness room and e-room business center, and use of the swimming pool, 9-hole executive putting green, and shuttle service within a five-mile radius upon availability.

Meet Ophelia Grace Whetherspoon, a beautifully handcrafted and hand-painted 9” wooden doll by famous miniature toymaker Eric Horne of England. His museum-quality toys and dolls are the heirlooms of tomorrow and are highly sought after by collectors today. His talent has been featured in numerous magazine articles and his work is represented in museums. Merry actually went to Eric’s home in England to meet him personally.

Ophelia is reminiscent of the European peg wooden family dolls dating from the mid to late l800’s. Popular authors of the day, such as Florence Upton and Nora Pitt-Taylor, wrote about the adventures of these delightful Dutch dolls. This type of wooden doll was called penny wooden, wooden peg, Dutch doll, plain Betty, Woodentop or Gretchen.

You will make Ophelia’s dress out of a lovely silk fabric with antique trim. Her petticoat and pantaloons will be made out of vintage eyelet fabrics. Her hand-painted “trunk” will be lined with “wallpaper.” You will make stitch samples for her “Practical Sewing” dame schoolbook. You will also stitch her sampler and her needleroll plus make a commemorative piece. Of course, Merry has to keep some secrets and her story until their journey to Mesa, but she will tell you she is in her 15th year of age…..

The weekend schedule with workshop prices:Friday, June 24, 5 - 9 pm (beginning with a light supper at 5:00) ~ Ophelia I ~ $450 Saturday, June 25, 9 - 4 pm (with a lunch break at 12:00) ~ Ophelia I (continued)Saturday night, 5:00-??, Wine & Food Reception at the shop open to all workshop participants RSVPSunday, June 26, 9 - 4 pm (with lunch at 12:00) ~ Ophelia II ~ $375

Ophelia’s Journey (Part I) by Merry Cox

In addition to the very collectible and beautifully handcrafted doll, your kit for Ophelia I includes her hand-painted trunk and “wallpaper,” all stitching and finishing materials for dress, slip and pantaloons, needleroll, sampler, dame school book and commemorative piece, plus a couple of surprises.

(Please note the table, chair, smalls on the table and dog in picture are not included but some will be available for purchase at the workshops.)

To register for these workshops, please email me at any of the email addresses you have for me, and I will email you the registration form.



http://www.phoenixmesa.place.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html

http://www.phoenixmesa.place.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html

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Kit for Ophelia II includes materials for 3 quilts, wool penny rug and new sampler including working frame, plus stitching and finishing materials for commemorative sewing case including scissors and keepsake shaker box.

(Please note the chair and quilt rack in picture are not included but some will be available for purchase at the workshop.)

Ophelia’s Journey (Part II)

Ophelia would like to share her love of needlework and quilt making with some very special pieces. She has created three beautiful quilts (you can make one, two or all three quilts); a wonderful wool penny rug, and her new sampler in a working frame. In addition to all the wonderful items for Ophelia, you will stitch a lovely commemorative sewing case complete with pinkeep and scissors and lined with the same beautiful silk as Ophelia’s dress. On the back of the sewing case, you will stitch Ophelia’s travels. The sewing case is housed in a very special and unusual shaker keepsake box (the box measures 9 ½” x 5” x 2”).

Commemorative Sewing Case, Ophelia II

Here is a look at the inside of this lovely sewing case. It is lined in the same beautiful silk used for Ophelia's dress. There are 2 pockets, a pinkeep, scissors, and a place for your needles. Merry will have the scrimshaw ruler and thread winder available in class. The boxtop monogram piece is made from an antique gaming chip from Merry's personal collection.

If you would like to pre-order the monogram piece on an antique gaming chip, $50, please order by email to [email protected] with “Ophelia II Monogram” in the Subject line, please.



mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

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+ MORE

TBA

Stitch, Mend & Mark This is somewhat of a mystery project that Merry is currently designing, but here is a little peek. In 2008, Frey’s Measure Mill made these wonderful 1-cup dry measures to commemorate their 150 years in business (1858-2008). Merry has been waiting to design something special for this lovely little box, which is 3 ½” in diameter. First, there is a roll-up alphabet sampler that is very unusual and unique. She purchased the antique alphabet from a very knowledgeable antique dealer who informed her it was from Massachusetts and from the first quarter of the l800’s. After researching Merry found a sampler pictured with this particular alphabet and the sampler was dated 1834. This reproduction marking alphabet sampler (3 ½” x 15 ½” finished) will roll up to go inside the drawstring silk bag. Attached to the bottom of the bag is a petite chatelaine that will hang over the edge of the bag when the bag is opened and draped over the 1-cup dry measure box.

Coming to The Attic in 2016 & 2017

Save the dates! I’m presenting this information here because some of you have asked, but final details, schedule, and prices aren’t yet available. Once these details are finalized the opening of registration for these events will be announced in a future newsletter.

Nov 11-13, Sherri Jones/Patrick’s Woods Lounging Hare Sewing Box This sewing box, made exclusively for Patrick’s Woods, is a finely handcrafted reproduction of an antique and is made from a private stash of exceptionally gorgeous curly maple. The box measures approx. 3 ¾” x 2 ¾” x 2” high. A sliding lid secures the box contents. A lofty pincushion adorns the lid top and is embellished with a regal hare lounging on a ground of muted greens stitched with variegated silk floss. The sides of the cushion are finished with twisted cording. The pieces are stitched on 32-count linen with silk floss to capture fabulous embroidered detail. The interior of the box is fitted with a stitched tool pad that is folded ‘accordion style’ to tuck into the box. Slip pockets secure favorite tools. The far left cover with the initials is a needlekeep, and the far right is a pinkeep. The embroidery is worked with silk floss in vintage tones of terra cotta and bark.

Jan 13-16, Sampler Symposium featuring Merry Cox

An Afternoon Leisure Basket This little charmer of a swing handle basket measures just 5" long by 3" wide and is made of patinated walnut. It is a faithful and exquisitely crafted reproduction of an antique made exclusively for Patrick's Woods. The basket is fitted with two pocketed books, a pin pillow, a velvet berry cushion, a scissors sheath and figural pinkeep with printed Victorian graphics. Matching scrims complete the set.

Flowers From Thy Garden Wouldn’t it be fun to go to class, take your sampler from its carrying case, unroll it, place it in front of you, and now everything needed is at your fingertips …. a ruler pocket, a needlebook with vintage linen needle pages, an ultra suede scissors holder tucked behind the needle pages, a pocket for a thread stick, a lovely pin cushion and many alphabets within the sampler for reference. While on a trip to England, Merry found a sampler stitched on two pieces of linen and then sewn together. The antique pieces each have red bands woven into the linen with several alphabets. Merry reproduced the alphabets from the circa 1860’s sampler, stitched the red bands to replicate the woven ones and then designed “her garden.” The sampler is hemstitched and then lined separately. The sampler and lining are held together with buttons and ribbon in the corners. It is folded in half, wrapped around the pin cushion, and stored in its case. Stitched on 35-count linen. Scrimshaw ruler, scissors and thread stick are optional.

Flowers For Milady Sewing Purse & Accessories A lovely and functional sewing purse holds all the necessary accessories for stitching. The front flap of the purse features a poem written by Merry with a gentleman presenting a bouquet of flowers to his lady. The needlebook/pinkeep has antique linen needle pages and thread winders inside, and the outside is used as a pincushion and pinkeep. The scissors and ruler holder is finished with an ultra suede insert. Scrimshaw ruler and scissors are optional.



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New in the Shop from . . .

. . . Erica Michaels

The Berry Collections continue – this time with two very seasonal designs (think snow and chocolate ) : “Brr rber ry” and “Sweetberry.” As before, each is available separately for 40c gauze (gauze included) or for linen, and both include general finishing instructions, templates, etc.

The silk berries are $16 and include the 40c silk gauze; the linen berries are $9.

R i g h t , “ G i n g e r b re a d H o u s e 2 ” i n t h e Gingerbread Village Series $6 and “Cottage Alphabet” $8, 131 x 163

. . . The Heart’s Content“Cherry Recipe Box”

$75 (ND) includes the

hand-crafted cherry

recipe box adorned

with realistic cherries,

35c linen, threads,

n e e d l e s ,

E V E R Y T H I N G ,

including a few recipes!

“Louis Lobster Needlebook” $47 complete kit includes hand-dyed ribbon, red glass-head pins, two fabrics for finishing, 35c ivory linen, 14 DMC floss, 26 & 28 tapestry needles. In addition to the needlebook, there is also a realistic claw pinkeep with all the trimmings.

. . . Country Cottage Needleworks

. . . Little House Needleworks

“Sing to the Lord” $8.50, 95 x 95



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Coming to Our Attic from . . .

Peacocks are a perennial favorite with almost everyone! These are glorious both in design and color. Left, “Peacock Finery” $16, 210 x 280 ~ right, “Glorious Peacock Fan” $14, 140 x 112

“Mary Pepper Pouch” $12, 108 x 105, shown stitched on 25c linen with DMC, it will be very sweet on a smaller count in overdyed thread and finished as a petite pincushion ~ on 40c over 2, it will be approximately a 5.5 square. Love the stylized tulip-shaped flower!

. . . Barbara Ana Designs

“The Fruit Thief ” $12, 181 x 82, another whimsical and very charming design from Barbara that features some of her favorite themes, such as the small houses in the background, the started cat, and, most importantly, the oversized thief about to fly away with its precious price to the dismay of the little lady in the foreground. Charted for DMC, we will surely do an overdyed silk conversion.

. . . Lesley Teare Designs



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Also On the Way to Our Attic . . .

“Romance in Paris” $14, 116 x 116, four stitched “postcards” featuring items evocative of previous time spent together; each small “card” has a miniature stamp reinforcing the idea of a message, a love letter. Two lovely bright tones, fuchsia and turquoise, stand out over a white lace motif on a sepia background. The needlework is embellished with some beadwork, adding an extra feminine touch.

Three beautiful French reproduction samplers, each approximately $17 (firm prices not available until the invoice is received) Above left, “Hermence Cartailler 1914,” 308 x 272 ~ love, love, love the beautiful letters ~ stitched with Gloriana silk Left, “O Marie,” 271 x 214 ~ after the Paris attacks, a beautiful symbol of peace and love ~ stitched with Soie d’Alger. Right, “Camille Emelie Beauvallet,” 443 x 257 ~ though this is the faded antique, when the chart arrives, we’ll pull the silks and show the beautiful soft colors.

“School Days of Yore” $13, 90w x 200h, a design dedicated to the joys of learning. As the children count apples and marbles or pick flowers, they seem to be playing with the numbers and letters they are learning, the beautiful red cursive letters of the type practiced at school in the old days. What a lovely “grandchildren” design, in its original format or adapted to suit many projects, including book covers, pencil cases, school bags . . .

. . . Shannon Christine Designs

. . . Perrette Samouiloff

. . . Reflets de Soie



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. . . The Heart’s Content

. . . Merry Wind Farm

“Spring Sparrow Scissors Fob” $44 Kit stitched on 40c linen w/DMC floss (scissors NOT included)

Coming to the Shop from . . .

Mary Inglis 1830 $20 is a Scottish house sampler with many typical Scottish elements. Mary was born in Lanarkshire Scotland on February 18, 1816. The stitch count is 204 x 204, and the stitches used are cross over one and two, satin, back or double-running, and eyelet. The very timely verse reads, Time once lost never returns. The moment which is lost is lost forever. She is charted for a combination of Gentle Art Sampler Threads and DMC, with a conversion for DMC only. And if requested, time permitting, we will do a conversion to overdyed silk threads.



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Coming at Nashville from Queenstown Sampler Designs

Here is a stunning sampler indeed!

Emeline Vanderbelt 1828 $26, 235 x 273 ~ About Emeline: “Emeline Vanderbelt was born 12 February 1818 in Clarkstown, Rockland County, New York. She married James Daniel Blauvelt (1811-1887), 31 December 1836 and had three children. A history and an image of their bucolic farm is included in the chartpack.”

Maria Jenuaria 1833-34 $30, 357 x 447Reproductionist Barbara Hutson provides the following interesting information about this incredible sampler: “Maria Jenuaria was 17 years old when she created her appealing sampler in 1833-1834. Maria’s impressive performance is bursting with creativity. The sampler resembles a cast of characters in a play gathered together for our personal enjoyment. The list of players include Adam & Eve, ladies, gentlemen, children, soldiers, sailors, and perhaps a pirate. They travel for your amusement by land in a carriage or by donkey, and then by sea in a ship. They appear to be everyday folks falling in love. One lady is sitting in a chair, holding her key, perhaps the key to her heart. There is also a windmill, a three-story house, and an abundance of flowers. All surrounded by a border that is different on each side. Crowned double-curved hearts with the key to the heart of a young miss expressing her love to her young man continues in Portugal today. The symbols can be found in jewelry, embroidery and other art forms.

M.A. Beats 1833 $16, 247 x 211 ~ “is an appealing sampler. The set of three linked octagons with the makers’ name & date tells us she is a classic sampler from Norwich, Norfolk, England. The checkered flower baskets are typical as well. Miss Beats worked three alphabets, a set of numbers and surrounded all with a strawberry vine border. Her crisp dividing bands invite you to read part of The Universal Prayer by Alexander Pope (1688-1744). This poem is found on many 18th and 19th century schoolgirl samplers.



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More at Nashville from Queenstown Sampler Designs

Maria E. Blauvelt c.1839 $12, 150 x 90“ M a r i a E l i z a b e t h B l a u v e l t c r e a t e d a c h a r m i n g s a m p l e r. There is a snowy goose, little blossoms, upper case alphabets, and it is encased in a discreet cable border. It is an admirable marking or learning sampler. Maria s igned her sampler: Maria Elizabeth Blauvelt made this sampler in the ninth year of her age . The sampler descended with a f a m i l y n o t e documenting that Maria was born in 1830 and worked this in 1839. A history is included in the chartpack.”

Susan Elliott 1842 $12, 138 x 111 ~ The reproductionist tel ls us this about this sampler: “. . . brought a smile to my face the moment I saw her. The cute quacking ducks were telling me to rescue t h e m . S h e i s a s w e e t miniature with the motto Strive to improve. Susan Elliott did her utmost to create the lovely embroidery.”

Frances Swartz 1842 $28, 198 x 483 “The Frances Swartz 1842 is a monumental Pennsylvania sampler. This grand sampler is adorned with classical Quaker floral sprays and stylized German flower motifs. The overall design is a lovely blending of cultures. Portions of the sampler are faded and were difficult to read. There is a section of the sampler that was not completed. This sampler was previously published in Sampler & Antique Needlework Quarterly, Fall and Winter 2014.”



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Attic, Mesa, AZ Toll-Free: 1.888.94-ATTIC (1.888.942.8842) www.atticneedlework.com

Also Coming at Nashville from . . .

“Old Glory Sewing Box,” a cherry wall pocket from Priscilla’s Pocket, Thread Gatherer silk threads, Weeks

36c linen. Love, love, love this! ♡

. . . Cherished StitchesRight, “Joy,” which Louise says describes how she felt as she stitched with these beautiful Weeks threads on grey linen, a square pinpillow with lacey sides and a solid bottom finished with Weeks wool, and trimmed with bamboo chenille, included with the chart.“Miniature Sweetheart Needlebook with Tin Heart Etui,” a limited-edition kit stitched over one on a lower-count linen with silks. The needlebook fits inside the tin, with room for the Sullivan Petite scissors (not included) ~ kit does include the linen, silk threads, silk ribbon, silk lining, and flannel fabric for the bottom silk insert ~ prices not yet available.

Here are some sneak peeks of Tanya’s Nashville releases ~ she’ll have 3 reproduction samplers and 4 original designs. From the left below: “Center Point Sampler” ~ 2 lions, 3 deer, 2 peacocks, 2 squirrels, 2 dogs, 10 birds, and one snake ??? ~ “Mary Cook 1795”

. . . The Scarlett House

. . . Giulia/GPA Designs



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Design fits

Lone Elm Lane Shaker box!

Adapted by NeedleWorkPress ©2015

“Time to Stitch”

Coming at Nashville 2016 from . . .

Patronilla Arandes1834 “Made on the 2nd of June 1834 for my use.” A reproduction by

. . . NeedleWorkPress



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More at Nashville 2016 from . . .

. . . NeedleWorkPress . . . MTV Designs

Catharine Isabella Suliss: An 1838 Canadian sampler with a delightful verse Good humor is the greatest charm that children can possess. It makes them happy and what’s more, it gives them power to bless. Born five days before Christmas in 1827, Catharine was 11 years old when she stitched her vibrant sampler. She died in Hillsburgh only eight years after finishing her needlework. Weeks Dye Works linen and floss were used to create a nearly identical replica of her sampler.

Tree of Life Sewing Box $28 chartpack includes the exquisite heart charm by Italy’s Ceramiche di Capodimonte, above

Stitched on Weeks 32c Angel Hair w/Weeks floss, Mill Hill beads, with these specialty stitches: Queen stitch, backstitch, Rhodes Heart, & bead stitch.

Pins Sets, $14 w/3pins ~ two color choices: all burgundy or 2 olive green + burgundy heart

Ancient Bronze Scissors, $15



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Elegance in Autumn Sewing Set $17 chart

Pins Set, $14 w/5 pins

Ancient Bronze Scissors $15

Coming at Nashville 2016 from . . .

Old-Time Scissors, Silver or Gold, each $16

. . . MTV Designs

My Dog Loves Spring

My Cat Loves Spring

Both charts include the wooden button, $15 each

My Dog Loves Summer

My Cat Loves Summer

Both charts include the wooden button, $15 each



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Also Coming at Nashville from . . .

. . . The Primitive Hare

“Queen Bee of the Needles” $12

Included here are some of the releases for Italy’s The Primitive Hare ~ the last of them will be included in our next eNewsletter. This will be the first time this designer has attended a Nashville show. I am so looking forward to meeting Isabella. Because this is a cash-and-carry show and these items will be coming all the way from Italy, it is critical that you place your pre-orders for these items early so we can place our pre-market order. If the items have to be shipped after the Nashville show, the prices may increase, depending on the shipping costs from Italy.

Right, from the top down: * “The Queen” hand-painted threadkeeper, $28* “Beehive Threadkeep” $14* “Bees Pins Set” $11

“The Keys Keeper” $38 limited-edition kit includes the frame, 30c fabric & chart.



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More Coming at Nashville from . . .

Right, from the top down: * “The Scarlet Letter” Pins Set, $12* “Snow White Pins Set” $12* “Bohemian Pins Set” $11

“The Scarlet Letter” includes 2 graphs $13. . . The Primitive Hare



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Coming at Nashville from . . .

Ancient Lady Sewing Box $18 for chart w/medallion included + finishing instructions ~ stitched on Weeks 35c Mocha (for the Medallion) + 32c Mocha with Dinky Dyes Natural

Finishing Pack w/cotton fabric, lace + Floral Pins Set $24

Floral Pins Set $8

. . . Simona/Mani Di Donna

Mermaid Song Sewing Box $22 chart w/finishing info, stitched on 32c Weeks with Weeks floss + Weeks wool

Mermaids Song Accessories Exclusive hand-painted bobbins, $11 each, Mermaid Front, Mermaid Back & Lighthouse

Exclusive Lighthouse Pins Set, $8/3 pins

Silver Nouveau Scissors $15

Fabric pack w/cotton fabric, shown below, $7



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More Coming at Nashville from . . .

Left, Antique Flowers Shaker Box w/Accessories $20 chart w/finishing info ~ stitched on 32c Lakeside linen with Classic Colorworks

Mounted on an 8-inch Lone Elm Lane Shaker box

Exclusive Antique Flowers Pin Set, $13 for 5 pins

Antique Flowers Scissors $15

Below, Black Ruby Sewing Purse $26 chart w/finishing info & hand-painted wooden rods, stitched on Weeks 32c Confederate Grey w/Weeks floss + Weeks felt

Exclusive Black Ruby Pins $10 w/3 pins

Silver Art Nouveau Scissors, $15

. . . Simona/Mani Di Donna

Blue Quaker Sewing Basket $13, chart w/hand-painted wooden handle included + finishing info



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January’s Sampler Sunday

E v e l y n ’ s P r a i r i e Schooler ABC series, stitched over 2 on 40c linen

If you haven’t already done so, pour yourself a cup of your favorite beverage and prepare to be inspired by some beautiful, beautiful needlework!

Below, LeeAnna’s beautiful “Serenity Harbor” from By the Bay Needleart, stitched on 45c linen with The Attic’s overdyed silk conversion

3 beautiful “His Eye is On the Sparrow” from Heartstring Samplery ~ from the left, Beth’s, Deb’s, and Janet’s



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Above, Patty’s lovely version of “Ersilia’s Sampler” by Samplers in My Attic ~ below, Melanie’s start on Gigi R’s “Adelaide Sestil 1828,” right

January Sampler Sunday (Continued)

Above, “M. Woods” from Milady’s Needle, the antique ~ and, below, Pat’s exquisite reproduction of it, on the 52/60 linen w/Tudor silks & right, Pat’s “Old Irish Blessing” from Erica Michaels on the 40c gauze

Above, LeeAnna’s “Merry Christmas” by The Primitive Hare from the Christmas issue of a new magazine, Punch Needle & Primitive Stitcher, cover above, that we will be stocking here in The Attic.

Above, Pat’s “Twisted Band Sampler” from Northern Expressions Needlework

Above, a close-up of Pat’s amazingly tiny eyelet-stitched alphabet on her “M. Woods” on the 52/60 linen



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January Sampler Sunday Continued

Left, Peggy’s “4 Seasons” by Anagram Diffusion, now OOP and we have none available ~ check eBay Above, Peggy’s lovely “Mother’s Honor Due” from Blackbird DesignsBelow, Peggy’s “Black Cherry Start” from Plum Street Samplers

Jan’s charming Chessie & Me “Glory House” design finished as a book box with a sweet message inside, Homespun Elegance’s “Treasured Friend” complimentary design

Above, Jan’s “Valentine,” a sweet complimentary design from Nebby Needle that you can get here ~ below, Shepherd’s Bush’s “My Stitching Bag Kit”





http://www.thenebbyneedle.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2014-02-06T09:31:00-05:00&max-results=7

http://www.thenebbyneedle.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2014-02-06T09:31:00-05:00&max-results=7

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More from January Sampler Sunday

Clockwise from above: 3 from Julie’s needles, “Instead of Sheep” from Heartstring Samplery; Pineberry Lane’s “Token of Love Redwork Sampler”showing Julie’s clever back as well; and “Hippity Hop” from NeedleworkPress

Above, a Swedish antique sampler currently being reproduced by Linda/Samplers Remembered, below ~ We’ll announce its availability in a future newsletter.

Barb’s exquisite “1864 EF Sampler” from NeedleWorkPress, from the Summer 2011 Sampler & Antique Quarterly

Linda D’s “It Must Have Been the Mistletoe” by Heartstring Samplery that was stitched in honor of their 50th wedding anniversary on December



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More from January Sampler Sunday

Gloria/Milady’s Needle showed her latest antique acquisition, “Anne Womack 1829,” a stunning sampler with very little “white space” showing on the ground fabric ~ watch for its reproduction chart in the future! The glass, unfortunately, didn’t allow for a clearer photograph, but I think this sampler’s appeal is evident through the reflections in the glass.

A sneak peek at a M i l a d y ’ s N e e d l e Nashville release, “Rabbit Run”

Right, Tedra’s “George & Martha” from Plum Street

Above, Tedra’s “Snooty Parrot” from Barbara Ana DesignsBelow, Tedra’s latest finishes of “Old Glory” from Little House Needleworks & “Old Glory” from Blackbird Designs

Cheryl’s start on Gigi R’s “The Morris Dancer” ~ this verse reads, “Revenge is a pleasure only to a mean spirit.”

Julie’s “And Heaven and Nature Sing” f ro m K a t h y Barrick



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More from January’s Sampler Sunday

Sandy’s “All Creatures Great and Small” from Barbara Ana Designs ~ what a fun stitch!

Left, Carolyn’s “Be of Good Cheer” from The Scarlett House & “Hol ly Sampler” from Erica Michaels on 40c silk gauze, a favorite of Carolyn’s

Right, Michelle’s “All Creatures” +, below, Threadwork Primitives’ “Hearts to You” from a FaceBook group, and “ E N 1 8 1 5 ” f r o m Heart s t r ing Sample r y, below

Above, The Drawn Thread’s “Toccata 3” from Helen ~ Linda L’s framed Quaker sampler from our BCRF Silent Auction, donated/stitched by Gigi R



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More from January’s Sampler Sunday

Counterclockwise from the far left: 3 from Deb, “Tradition Sampler” from Phyllis Hoffman as part of the gifts at a past Just CrossStitch Williamsburg seminar ~ “Santa’s Visit” from A Stitch in Time, I believe an OOP design ~ and the fabulous “Reindeer Alphabet” from Judy/JBW Designs

Betsy’s “Berlin Woolwork Sampler” from Darlene O’Steen/Needle’s Prayse/NeedleWorkPress

Clockwise from the left: Carolyn’s Erica Michaels’ “Ask Seek & Knock” on 40c silk gauze ~ my apologies for the reflections in the glass ~ Molly’s “All Creatures Great & Small from Barbara Ana Designs & her “Manor at Peacock Hill” from With Thy Needle & Thread



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And Even More from January’s Sampler Sunday

Lynne’s progress on Theresa Baird’s “Cottage by the Sea Sewing Set”

S u s a n ’ s s t u n n i n g reproduction sampler from Gigi R, “ATS Saxony Sampler”

Angelica’s “272 Words (Gettysburg Address)” from Primrose Needleworks that she hoped to finish in time for her husband’s birthday ~ or, alternatively, it could be a finish in time for Abe’s birthday on February 12!

Debby’s making great progress on

this Vickie/NeedleWorkPress design,

“Out on a Limb,” a design

inspired by a Fraktur owned by

her father and presented at our

January Sampler Symposium



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Images of Gigi’s Last Two Samplers

“The Morris Dancer,” adapted Maria Cooper Sampler, 1790

“Sarah Esther Beeston, Aged 12” ~ right, our model stitched on 52/60 linen with Gloriana’s Tudor silks

JoAnn’s very beautiful “The Morris Dancer” ~ and she wanted me to be sure and explain that she hasn’t stitched the trumpets because she is afraid if she stitches them now, when she rolls the linen, it will distort her stitches. She was so happy when Gigi decided to reproduce this sampler. She is enjoying each and every stitch. Thank you, JoAnn, for sharing your beautiful needlework with our readers.



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Our Customers Share

It’s the Celebration of Hearts Season, aka Valentine’s Day, and here are several inspiring heart/red displays in recognition of this special Heart holiday.

Above, Julie’s lovely Valentine tray inclues, clockwise from the top, “Spotted Chickens Sewing Bag” from Stacy Nash Primitives, “Valentine Sampler” from With Thy Needle & Thread, & “Antique Rooster Sampler” from JBW Designs

Needleworkers are some of the most generous people on earth ~ Helene stitched this exquisite sampler in honor of the 40th anniversary of friends! This Victoria Sampler design, “Heirloom Anniversary Sampler,” is beautifully embroidered, as you can see, and how very generous of Helene to give it away!



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Epilogue

My brother Jer and his wife Nancy are once again spending their winter in Mesa+Gold Canyon ~ John and I love having them here becausewe have great fun together enjoying many things, including new taste treats. We love good coffee, and I’m very fond of the Cuban favorites served at the espresso bar at Liberty Market in Gilbert, and I couldn’t wait for them to try them, too. My Cortado was too pretty to drink ... almost! They’re having the Cortadito, a micro latte.

Someone was in the shop last week and expressed concern about Zoe and her new baby brother, James, because neither had appeared in our newsletter in a long time. I assured her that both were doing splendidly and then decided that I best fix that omission, in case anyone else was also wondering. The truth is that, even though James is now going on five months, it wasn’t until very recently that I first met him. Having two children, and doing all that she does with them, with her job as bulletin editor for their church , and a l so w i th NeedleWorkPress, Maegan has been very, very busy.

Hmm, it’s very telling to admit that I remember the first! We’ll watch, but heartlessly ... because our team won’t be there!



february 1, 2016 enewsletter

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