My sewing Room goodies

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Two new patterns to show you today – especially for all of our Stitched Sunday fans… These two patterns will challenge your embroidery stitches just a little – yes a little move on from backstitch, they include some satin stitch, detached chain, pistil stitch, knots and stem stitch….

The ‘Broidery Bag – this bag has simple quilting to make it nice and sturdy, embroidered pockets on both sides and two easy to grab handles. It is designed to store all of your stitching goodies. Below is a  coordinating needlebook and I have plans for more accessories to match throughout next year..

This floral embroidery sits on the back pocket (the side you cannot see above) Four of these strips are stitched with satin stitch, detached chain, pistil stitch and backstitch.. It is a lot of stitching – of course you could leave it out and just insert another fabric strip – but it really does look pretty don't you think – and worth the effort.. The main flower motif on the front pocket will give you lots of practise on those new stiches you have learnt.

it is finished with a zipper – but will work just as well without one if you really do not like to do zips… I promise I do talk you through it though…

Accompanying the ‘Broidery Bag is the Needle Nookie!

I made myself a Needle book similar to this years ago when I was learning about needles. It was perfect for me to store my needle card and remember what they were! There are eight pockets which will fit a standard pack of needles (and yes the new Hugs ‘n Kisses needles will also fit).

You slip the complete pack in the pocket but when  using one you slip it into the woollen strip on the pocket for safe storage – like a pincushion – BUT the name is written right there – many people once they take a needle out of the packet can never tell again what type of needle it was – now you will always know…

The Needle book folds up nicely to store in your “broidery bag.

Again we have some interesting and challenging embroidery on the needlebook for some stitching therapy.

Both patterns have iron on transfers, stitch guides and diagrams and step by step instructions.Don't forget if you need to refer back to the Stitched Sunday tutorials you always can, or download the Hugs ‘n Kisses app which has the links right there for you for each stitch.

These projects have been made using fabric from one Fat Quarter pack (Puttin on the Ritz by Bunnyhill for Moda) – I have more left to make more projects in this range. I would suggest choosing a favourite Fat Quarter pack and putting it aside to make your complete set by the end of next year as I add to the collection.

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I know that many of you struggle with what needle to use for your stitching and appliqué.. It is probably the most often question I am asked… so to make it simple for you we sourced and tested and now have available  Hugs ‘n Kisses needle packs -

Stitchery needles – for your stitchery and simple embroidery projects  - these are size 7 Crewel needles suited to 1-3 strands of thread or a Perle 12-16 thread which I love to use,

and,

Appliqué needles – for needleturn or Gluestick appliqué. – These are nice and strong, with a very sharp point, not too short to handle but not too long to bend and they have a LARGE eye for easier threading than most appliqué needles.

These two needles are pretty much what I use for 90% of my stitching…

Your local stores who came to Quilt Market may have all of these products available now – if not you can always ask them to get them in for you or visit the links above.

So, time for a giveaway – an extra Christmas Pressie to put under the tree just for you.

Reply with a comment on your new favourite embroidery stitch from the Stitched Sunday Tutorials… and we will draw one lucky winner on Friday for a full set – yes that's two patterns and two needlepacks..

hugs for today,

Helen

PS: A huge thankyou to Ausbelle who tested these patterns for me. Check out her colours! – it looks great in the brighter fabrics too…

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