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Archive for the ‘Christmas Mantle’ Category

Stitch A Custom Designed Needlepoint Stocking Kit!

written by Gwynn Goodner

Needlepoint stockings are priceless family treasures, and now you can have stockings that are custom-designed for your family! We can help you create a personalized stocking that reflects the interests of every member of your family. Many customers find an existing design from our stock inventory and personalize it with a name, but if you want something completely unique, have us design one for you.

The First Step
Place your order for a custom needlepoint stocking kit through this link:
https://www.needlepaint.com/needlepoint-kits/custom-christmas-stocking-needlepoint-kit-1950

The Second Step
Choose a theme and design style.

The process starts with the customer choosing a theme—it can be anything from a sports interest to a travel destination. Our designers will take that theme and dress it out to a beautiful, personal design.

Once you have chosen a theme, a few small additional elements can be added if you want. Here is an example. The customer who commissioned this design wanted the West Coast as the theme and added various features up and down the coast. 

A different approach is to choose a theme such as a profession. This piece was done for a client whose daughter was an EMT. She wanted something in the holiday spirit that reflected her love for her work, so now it’s Santa to the rescue! 

The possibilities are endless! It is important to remember that there should be one primary element of focus so our designers can create a scenario that makes a statement. Along with that primary element, we can often add smaller images or background that will work within the scene. 

A main subject, a secondary subject and background item will make the best stocking design. 

Follow the rule of threes. For this example:
1. the dog is the main subject.
2. the presents a secondary.
3. the tree a background element.
This type of design approach makes for a more unified scene and a better overall result.

Here’s an example of a Christmas tree as the main image with the recipient’s interests reflected in the décor and presents on and around the tree.

Another thing to consider is the style of art you want for your stocking. We can take a more graphic approach, which results in cleaner lines and a bold visual statement.

Or we can take a more illustrative style that gives a more shaded, nuanced result.

Doing a Google image search is a great way to start. A simple search such as “Santa skateboarding,” or “Great Dane dressed as angel” will yield great inspiration for your stocking. You’ll be surprised at how many images pop up and provide good poses or direction for the designer to follow! Save some favorite images from your search and include them when you make your order to help inspire the design. 

When you place your order, please include all design requests and any images or links to images that may help our designers. You can include these in your order notes or in an email to info@needlepaint.com.

Once we have your order and this information, you will receive a layout from one of our designers in 7-10 business days. It is helpful to have images for our designers to follow so they have an idea of what you have in mind. 

The Third Step
You’ve submitted your ideas, and now our designer will begin creating your design!

When you receive your layout it may look something like this. The layout is a rough sketch showing the approximate size and position for the major elements on the stocking. You will have an opportunity to do a round of changes to the layout and once it is approved, you will receive a proof of the colored version of your design. 

Further small adjustments can be made at this point
to render the perfect stocking for your family member.

Things to keep in mind when you are considering a custom stocking design:

The general shape of a stocking is vertical, so horizontal objects (like cars, boats etc.) may need to be made smaller to fit and are generally placed in the lower 1/3 of the shape to maximize their size.

Vertical images such as Christmas trees or a nutcracker are ideal subjects for a stocking.

More isn’t necessarily better. Editing and curating the things you want on a stocking makes for a better finished piece. Too many items can make a stocking look cluttered and hard to see the individual elements. Simplifying the visuals makes for a cleaner, more cohesive design.

Our designers have also recreated heirloom stockings that have been lost over time. One customer lost their prized childhood stocking in Hurricane Sandy and commissioned us to recreate it from some old family photos. Using the photos as reference we were able to make a stocking that preserved the special holiday memories that they thought had been lost for good.

At NeedlePaint we pride ourselves in making the most attractive, personal and affordable custom canvases on the market, and it’s all just a click away.

We would love to help create a unique stocking design for you.
Please contact us with any questions that you may have at: info@needlepaint.com

Stitch a priceless family treasure!

New NeedlePaint Kits With A Touch Of Holiday Nostalgia!

As the holidays are in full swing, the smell of baking cookies, a song or a cherished ornament, will make a childhood memory come alive. At NeedlePaint we have created some new designs with a touch of nostalgia and that warm feeling from the past. Stitching these needlepoint stockings, pillows and ornament canvases, will add a vintage charm to your holidays!

Vintage Snowman Needlepoint Stocking Kit
12.43″ x 19″ on 14 mesh canvas

“Frosty the Snow Man came to town one bright, cold winter’s day!”

Vintage Snowman Needlepoint Ornament Kit
5.22″ x 5.22″ on 18 mesh canvas

“Frosty the Snow Man has gone away, where all snow men go on a sunny day.”

Vintage Snowman Needlepoint Pillow Kit
12″ x 12″ on 14 mesh canvas

“Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!”

Swirling Snow Needlepoint Stocking Kit
12.43″ x 19″ on 14 mesh canvas

Cool and crisp, yet warm and friendly; the swirling winter wind sparkles with magic!

Swirling Snow Pine Needlepoint Ornament Kit
5.22″ x 5.22″ on 18 mesh canvas

Winter is welcoming, with a dusting of snow on a newly decorated pine!

Swirling Snow Needlepoint Ornament Kit
5.22″ x 5.22″ on 18 mesh canvas

This swirling winter wind is a favorite of this friendly snowman! 

Vintage Santa Needlepoint Stocking Kit
12.43″ x 19″ on 14 mesh canvas

“His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, and the beard on his chin was as white as the snow!”

Vintage Santa Needlepoint Ornament Kit
5.22″ x 5.22″ on 18 mesh canvas

“His eyes how they twinkled! His dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!”

Vintage Santa Needlepoint Pillow Kit
12″ x 12″ on 14 mesh canvas

“He had a broad face and a little round belly, that shook, when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly!” 

Stitch a little nostalgia, this holiday season!

Feel free to contact us with any questions,
or if our designers can create a special holiday memory for you to stitch,
let us know at: info@needlepaint.com

NeedlePaint’s New Christmas Stocking Cuffs!

Written by: Peggy Bond

Running late to get a Christmas stocking needlepointed? NeedlePaint suggests a Winter Wonderland Stocking Cuff. Needlepointing the cuff will take less than half the time of a full stocking. The bear and moose are perfect for my nephews who live in Maine,
and the chickadee will be prefect for Amos’ little sister who will be born in October.
It shouldn’t be difficult to get it finished in time for Christmas. 

Burly Black Bear Stocking Cuff Needlepoint Canvas

Woodland Moose Stocking Cuff Needlepoint Canvas

Joyful Chickadee Stocking Cuff Needlepoint Canvas

The bear and moose are finished and awaiting their big day. For texture and variety,
I used several different stitches on the large animals, sky, and snowy ground. 

The sky of the bear cuff is done with the vertical brick stitch done over 2 mesh.

The snowy ground is finished with the horizontal double brick stitch also done over 2 mesh.

For the bear, I wanted some color variation and texture.
His back is done using alternating continental with black and dark brown thread
while his under body and legs are all black and stitched with the continental. 

Alternating Continental Stitch

It’s winter and there must be snow falling sometimes, so the moose got the falling snow which was
created by using 3 strands of sky blue and 3 strands of light blue in the vertical brick stitch.
This created a random design that gives the sense of falling snow. 

The double twill stitch for the snow gives perception to the canvas,
accenting the varying size of the trees.

Diagonal chop sticks stitch: Mr. Moose took some searching for me to find the right stitch – one that I had never seen or used before. I found it in Susan Sturgeon Roberts’s book Needlepoint Dictionary of Stitches. It is called diagonal chop sticks. It is done in two shades of brown. 

I will post a the completed chickadee when I know the name of my niece.

We would love to help you with all of your needlepoint holiday decorations.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have at: info@needlepaint.com

Happy Stitching!

Merry X Mask! Stanta Stocking and Ornament Collection

It has definitely been a challenging year, with far too many adjustments that we’ve all had to make in our day to day routines. As we try to find comfort in a new norm, look on the bright side — we’ve all had a little more time for our needlepoint projects! 

While wearing a face mask has been one of the prominent changes we’ve had to make, NeedlePaint has turned this inconvenience into needlepoint inspiration. The results: a collection of new holiday designs with a light hearted twist on a traditional holiday theme. We think stitching these holiday canvases might just put a smile on your face.

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Merry X Mask Needlepoint Ornament Canvas

He performs his job with ease, and all though we give Santa all of the credit . . . .
we know it’s a team effort! The reindeer are also refining their safety precautions.

 

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Merry X Mask Needlepoint Stocking Canvas

Santa is not immune to the many changes that we’ve encountered;
and he has assured us, he will be extra safe when delivering your packages this year!

 

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Santa’s X Mask Needlepoint Ornament Canvas

Some things never change . . . with those bright twinkling eyes; 
we know there is a big smile and bright rosy cheeks underneath that face mask!

Carve out a little time to slow down, regroup, recharge, take comfort in your family and friends, and do a little needlepointing!

Remember we are here to help you with all of your needlepoint needs! Whether it be providing you with a canvas to stitch, a finished product or to complete your stitch canvas with our stocking or ornament finishing service, please let us know how we can be of help at: info@needlepaint.com

The spirit of the holiday remains . . . . happy stitching!

NeedlePaint’s New Winter Woodland Christmas Collection!

Add an enchanting warmth to your holiday season by stitching NeedlePaint’s new Winter Woodland Collection of needlepoint canvases. Complete with sparkling snow covered trees; a dreamy woodland floor; and a cast of charming warmhearted woodland animals.

Our new collection is comprised of a woodland scene needlepoint Christmas stocking, picture or pillow woodland needlepoint design, and six delightful Christmas ornaments including: Robins, Owl, Hedgehog, Squirrel, Fox, and a Rabbit. Stitch one or the entire collection; we know these hand stitched decorations will be treasured by your family for years to come. 

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Winter Woodland Stocking Needlepoint Canvas

The magic of the winter woodland animals,
will add a special warmth to your holiday mantle place.

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Winter Woodland Robins Needlepoint Ornament Canvas

Adorned with a crimson red breast;
these robins are handsome and honest, optimistic and elegant.

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Winter Woodland Owl Needlepoint Ornament Canvas

Keeping a close eye out on his friends;
this owl often takes flight, gliding under the stars of a midnight sky. 

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Winter Woodland Hedgehog Needlepoint Ornament Canvas

Keeping warm with his prickly coat;
this hedgehog is curious and bright eyed, small and round.

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Winter Woodland Squirrel Needlepoint Ornament Canvas

Wearing a question mark for a tail;
this squirrel is cheerful, merry, and loves to playfully tease his woodland friends. 

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Winter Woodland Fox Needlepoint Ornament Canvas

Wearing a charming red coat;
this fox is quick and crafty, smart and sincere. 

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Winter Woodland Rabbit Needlepoint Ornament Canvas

Gently nibbling all about the bushes;
this rabbit is timid and cautious, polite and inquisitive.

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Winter Woodland Needlepoint Pillow Canvas

The woodland animals gather to celebrate the season;
in their own unique, signature style.

Let NeedlePaint help make your holidays special;
feel free to contact us with any questions at info@needlepaint.com

Winter has a warm magic of its own . . . . happy stitching!

Eleven Pipers Piping and Twelve Drummers Drumming Christmas Needlepoint

By: Peggy Bond

Day 11, Eleven Pipers Piping

The Day 11 and 12 blocks have many of the same stitches used in the previous one. The Shingle Stitch background – my favorite – also reappears.

Eleven Pipers Piping Christmas Needlepoint

Eleven Pipers Piping Christmas Needlepoint

Day 11 Blog

 

Day 12, Twelve Drummers Drumming

The background for the drum is a new one – Marble Inlay which is diagramed below.

Twelve Drummers Drumming Christmas Needlepoint

Twelve Drummers Drumming Christmas Needlepoint

Day 12 Blog

The Marble Inlay stitch was patterned from a 14th century Italian marble mosaic at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and in the Baptistry of the Cathedral in Florence.

Marble Inlay.fw

Done at last! On to finishing touches…

 

Nine Ladies Dancing and Ten Lords A-Leaping Christmas Needlepoint

By: Peggy Bond

Day 9, Nine Ladies Dancing

The Dancing Lady is stitched with 9 traditional stitches, none of which require explanation.

Nine Ladies Dancing Christmas Needlepoint

Nine Ladies Dancing Christmas Needlepoint

Day 9 Blog

Let her smile keep you happy while stitching.

 

Day 10, Ten Lords A-Leaping

The leaping lord has a few different twists. His hair is done in French knots with 3 twists per stitch. It took me a couple of tries to get them correctly placed to give him a full head of hair. Not noted on the diagram is that the flower and leaves are done in Continental and the center of the flower is another French knot. 

Ten Lords A-Leaping Christmas Needlepoint

Ten Lords A-Leaping Christmas Needlepoint

Day 10 Blog

Seven Swans Swimming and Eight Maids Milking Christmas Needlepoint

By: Peggy Bond

We’re continuing our 12 days of Christmas Needlepoint Projects!  (See other posts for all 12 projects!)

Day 7, Seven Swans a-Swimming

The swan is the last of the birds. The only fancy feathering here is on the wings.

Seven Swans o-Laying Christmas Needlepoint Kit

Seven Swans a-Laying Christmas Needlepoint Kit

Seven Swans Swimming Stitch Chart

L Wing Stitch Detail

The pink “L”s in the wing are done with two Cashmere 2×4 stitches – one worked horizontally and the other vertically. The “L”s are surrounded by brown “L”s where space permits and then the remainder of the wing is done in Continental as shown below.

 

 

 

 

Wave Stitch DetailThe main portion of the wave is the Double Parisian with the peaks done with left and right slanting Continental.

Slanted Straight Stitch NeedlepointAnd, the background Slanted Straight stitch is done over three canvas threads working right to left. It is quick and easy.

Day 8, Eight Maids a-Milking

Our Maid is done with her work and is carrying her milk home from a job well done.

Eight Maids a-Milking Christmas Needlepoint

Eight Maids a-Milking Christmas Needlepoint

Eight Maids Christmas Stitch Chart

Eight Maids Christmas Stitch Chart

Needlepoint Vest DetailHer vest and pocket of flowers require some explanation.

The center of the vest of worked in Slanted Gobelin 3×3 working left to right and right to left to form the lower points of the vest. The edges are Continental and button French knots.

 

 

 

 

Pocket Stitch DetailThe pocket is done in a manner similar to the heart of the Day 2 and the flowers are a satin stitch.

The Milanese stitch, like the Medieval Mosaic stitch, is quick and easy to do after getting it established.

Now on to Dancing Ladies and Leaping Lads…

12 Days of Christmas Days 5 and 6 Needlepoint Kits

We’re back!  I’ve been short on time because our lead designer is away on Maternity Leave.  Also note, our other designer is going away for 3 weeks in August to help her mom move, so we’re taking a break on custom work from Aug.1 – 22.  We can still do simple custom projects and Karen is here to do production on photo designs and stock designs, so feel free to email and check if you are in a rush.

And onto Peggy’s next two stitch guides!!!

DAY 5, Five Golden Rings

Five Golden Rings Needlepoint

Five Golden Rings Needlepoint

The Five Golden Rings needlepoint kit is a diversion from all the feathers, and also a challenge to get the correct placement of stitches for the interlocking of the rings. The center of each ring is done in Continental and each ring is done in a different stitch as noted on the diagram.

Five Golden Rings Needlepoint Stitches

The interlockings of the rings are number and a detail below shows how the stitches overlap. I am not a fan of metallic threads, but if I were, this block would be an ideal one for them. (Using different stiches for each ring does complicate the block but it gives the finished block more depth. Some depth can be achieved by using the Mosaic or Brick stitch for all the rings.)

5 Golden Rings Stitch Details

Medieval Mosaic Needlepoint Stitch

The Medieval Mosaic background stitch is a pattern found in mosaic ancient floors. Once the first rows are done, working top to bottom, and the patterns established, the stitch is easy and it covers canvas quickly.

 

 

 

 

Day 6, Six Geese A-Laying

Six Geese A Laying Needlepoint

Six Geese A-Laying Needlepoint

It’s back to the birds with one of the Laying Geese. I doubt that the geese of the original song were Canadian geese, but I couldn’t resist making make one for Day 6.  The Six laying geese needlepoint kit is on our website here.Six Geese a laying needlepoint guide

Nor could I resist giving my goose colored eggs. The blue and pink eggs are done in standard stitches as shown above, but the lavender egg has horizontally symmetric stitching as shown in the detail below.Lavender Egg Slanted Needlepoint Stitch Detail

The center is a vertical straight stitch over 3 canvas threads and the top and bottom are Continental and Slanted Gobelin 2×2, done left to right for the top and right to left for the bottom.

The Shingle stitch for the background is my favorite of the background stitches used in this project and is the only one that I repeated. It will be seen again on Day 11.

This is the half way mark… only one more feathered friend to go!

Four Calling Birds and Three French Hens Needlepoint Guides

Stitched and written By:  Peggy Bond

Day 3, Three French Hens Needlepoint Kit

French Hen Needlepoint Kit with Stitch Chart

The French hens were just too plump to put all three on the block so we only have one, sitting fat and happy on her flowering nest. No eggs in view!

All but one of the stitches for this and the next block can be found in The Needlepoint Book by Jo Ippolito Christensen. However, some are worked in different directions than shown in the book.

The head of our lonesome hen is stitched in Continental as are her comb and beak. Her eye is a French Knot. Her breast and tail are Kennan and the wing tips are alternation rows of Slanted Gobelin 2 x 2 and Continetal worked slanted from top left to right.

Flowers are Continental with their centers done is varying numbers of French Knots to fill the canvas. The branches are Continental as well, and the leaves are done in variations of the leaf stitch.

French Hen Needlepoint Stitch Guide

French Hen Needlepoint Stitch Guide

Victoria and Albert Herringbone

V and A Herringbone

The hen’s wing is done in Victoria and Albert Herringbone, show below. It is a variation of the standard Herringbone was adapted from a Victory and Albert Museum Handbook of embroidery stitches by Sherlee Lanz.

Background is Woven Plait which is similar to and simpler than the Victoria Albert Herringbone. The Woven Plait is a quick background stitch that has texture.

 

 

 

 

Day 4, Four Calling Birds Needlepoint

Four Calling Birds Needlepoint Canvas fully Stitched

Four Calling Birds Needlepoint Kit

The Four Calling Birds block is the other symmetrically designed block.

The yellow of the birds is done in Lazy Knitting, worked left to right on the left half and right to left on the right. The same is true for the Slanted Gobelin 2×2 of the tails and the green Slanted Gobelin 2×2 of the wing. Lazy Knitting is one of the more tedious stitches, but contrasting texture to the Slanted Gobelin makes it worth the effort.

Four Calling Birds Needlepoint Guide

Four Calling Birds Needlepoint Guide

The flower is done with 4 Scotch squares on each petal. It is edged in Satin to round out each petal. The flower center can be stitched in white Continental, or yellow French Knots or maybe some beads? There are possibilities on all or the blocks to add some flare with beads and/or sequins. Flower centers and eyes are obvious choices for these types of embellishments.

The leaves are variations of the Leaf stitch and branches are vertical or horizontal Gobelin. (The traditional Gobelin is a straight stitch over 2 threads of the canvas. It can be stitched horizontally or vertically. And, as used for the birds, it can be stitch on diagonally, i.e. over 2 strands horizontally and vertically making it twice the size one of the Tent stitches – Continental, Half Cross, or Basketweave.)

The background is the Diagonal Mosaic, not to be confused with the Mosaic stitched diagonally. Unlike the background of the Two Turtle symmetrical block, this background is worked continuously across the entire block. That is not stitched in opposite directions on each half.

Coming up a break from birds…. Five Golden Rings, the most complex of the 12 blocks!