Visit this page frequently to see my current WIPs (works in progress). I generally have one or two stitching projects in motion, in addition to work on my Master Craftsman. Here’s what’s new:

A Final Nod to Christmas

I started this charming little fellow on Christmas Eve Eve and put the final stitch in this weekend as the days of January start to accumulate. This design entitled Mouse and Bauble comes from the terrific designer across the pond, Soukie Soo and the Sew Sisters. I believe this whimsical mouse and his glittering snow globe stitched in cotton floss on vintage linen will be among my submissions for the Woodlawn Needlework Show this year.

Holiday Stitching

I confess. I’m a Hallmark Christmas movie junkie—and the newer Great American Family Christmas movies as well. When it’s time to get serious about the holiday stitching, I find such joy in pouring a cup of tea, switching on Hallmark and settling in for a good stitch (long before December arrives). Here is my current holiday WIP: a design by Hannah Burbury Designs featuring George the plucky little robin. Check out the blog to see another fun way to use felt during the holidays!

Preparing for America’s 250th!

The leaves may be falling outside my window now, but on July 4, 2026, America will celebrate its semiquincentennial – its 250th birthday! I’ve started celebrating early with several patriotic projects, like this charming design from Little House Needleworks. It’s a counted cross stitch pattern featuring a miniature Paul Revere on his midnight ride. How will you observe the semiquincentennial in thread? Hop over to the blog and find a few suggestions at Stitching in Anticipation of America’s 250th.

Master Craftsman Homestretch (Hopefully!)

Back in 2021, I started a journey to earn a designation of Master Craftsman in Crewel from the Embroiderer’s Guild of America. Folks, I’m getting close! I have submitted and passed five of the six projects. This summer, after a few design classes and some much-needed encouragement from several amazing stitchers, I am putting the finishing touches on the sixth and final project. I submit end of September, but here are a few preview pictures. Stay tuned!

A Study in Stumpwork

I spent a recent Saturday afternoon with my friend Diane Clark learning some moves in stumpwork. Today, I finished her lovely design, “Cocktail Begonia,” featuring this charming little 3-dimensional flower.

ESOL in Bloom

I teach English language to adult foreign nationals. In anticipation of the end of school this year, I began an ambitious WIP back in March. I wanted to hand-embroider bookmarks for each of my (18) students featuring the national flower from their home countries. I finished . . . in the nick of time! Below are the results (read about the backstory on the blog):

Reflections: New Year, New Stitch

In between the Christmas stitching and finishing my final Master Craftsman project, I picked up this beautiful design by Anna Scott Embroidery. She calls it “Reflections,” a lovely crewel design inspired by William Morris in the Arts and Crafts vein. I just love the colors—shaded iron greys and golden yellows. And so many fun stitches! Once this WIP is complete, I will post a few final shots once finished.

Iris’ Paintbox

Krista West is the designer for Avlea Folk Embroidery. She specializes in cross stitch (and embroidery) designs inspired by the rich and beautiful traditions of the Mediterranean. I have been stitching her Iris’ Paintbox for several months now. It is the perfect “in between” project – the one you can occasionally pick up and set down as other projects need attention.

Attavyrian Star and Vine

Here’s another Krista West design – an intricate medallion design in a taupe (DMC 3032) and silvery blue (DMC 413). I finished this as a Christmas gift for my daughter in 2023.

Étude aux “Agrumes”

One of my all-time favorite cross stitch designers is Véronique Enginger, owner of Les Brodeuses Parisiennes. Her “Les Créateurs” collection features beautiful botanical designs of assorted fruits — peaches, lemons, cherries. I’m working on the study of agrumes, or citrus. It’s the perfect WIP as we transition from spring into summer. I can almost smell the orange blossoms!