Peek Inside: The Untamed Thread
Plus, discover a new way to display your hoops
Hi friends, in my last email I mentioned the new book The Untamed Thread by Fleur Woods. I just picked up my copy today (from the cutest local bookstore, which has an amazing mission) and, dear readers, this book is just lovely.
The cover has a linen-like texture and the colors are just dreamy.
Next, here’s the title page. I’m already fascinated by how Woods is using dyed and handpainted background fabric for her stitching.
Here’s a sneaky peek of what you’ll find inside:
Don’t you just want to run your hands over this stitching?
In the book, Fleur describes how, early in her artistic career, she had a sort of epiphany that gave her work new focus. “I was trying too hard… to be cool or clever or edgy or something,” she writes. “When really what I love, what I’ve always loved is florals, textiles, textures and color.”
Finally, here’s a glimpse of a project that uses diluted acrylic paint to color linen. It looks like the perfect outdoor summer project, and the result is scrumptious.
What or who is inspiring your stitching these days?
Get Your Hoops Up
In less than two weeks, I’m headed for the H+H Americas Show in Chicago. I’ve never been before but it’s a trade show for the craft and craft retailers industry. I ordered a box of samples to see what will be trending in needlework. One of the items in the box is a hoop prop from Modern Hoopla.
Designed to display hoops up to 8 inches in diameter, the wood stand hides the tightening screw for a clean-lined look. Cute, right?
I can’t wait to tell you more about the stitching trends I discover at the show. (If you subscribe, you won’t miss the updates, wink, wink…)
More Inspiration
Do you tend to use perle cotton or 6-strand floss when you stitch? Or maybe a mix of both? Inspired by Bonnie Sennott, an artist and knitwear designer, I’ve been experimenting with layered, rhythmic stitches in perle cotton.
I’m enjoying the stitching, but the colors I have in perle cotton are limited right now to the basics at my local craft stores. (In fact, I’ve resorted to the dreaded red/yellow combo in this sample. Ack!)
So here’s the question: Where can I find perle cotton in more colors? What’s your favorite place to shop for fun threads? Help a sister out!
Oh, and please take a look at Bonnie’s work on Instagram or visit her website.
Gorgeous, right?
Happy stitching friends!
—Janice
What a beautiful book!