STITCHING ALONG.....

 After I put my Mayflower project in time-out, I decided to bring out one of my old WIP's.   I had started this little sampler back in July,  it's simply called, "1861-Antique Sampler" by Blackbird Designs.  It's from their re-released book, "In Friendship's Way" which is one of my favorite books by them.  So many smaller projects in this book...lots of strawberries, pinkeeps, and small samplers for box tops.  I love that BBD uses mostly 32 count linens, minimal floss colors, and items that are easily found at either Hobby Lobby or Joann's

I did change some of the floss colors because they were a bit too bright.  I am using 30 count linen by R&R, but I don't remember the name.  I love R&R linens...the holes are loose enough for my old eyes to see, which makes it s much easier to stitch. 

I am currently working on "Mary Stead 1824" by Nicola Parkman.  It is one of her reproductions from her "Little Gems" samplers collection.  They are downloadable and for $10, they are a steal!  Nicola gives a detailed history about every sampler she reproduces.  And I love that she gives the sizes from 14 count Aida to 40 count linen.  Her website is: hands-across-the-sea-samplers.com.

On Tuesday, my husband took me to Findlay OH to my very favorite needle work shop, The Craft Gallery.  Here are the things I bought:

Two new re-released BBD design books

Some yummy 28 count linens by Lakeside Linens...which, anyone who buys linen, knows that Lakeside is extremely hard to come by...

A sweet little notebook by Needlework Press (it's a gift for a friend at Christmas) and some floss for the project I'll be working on, for the gift.

And the design, in a book, "A Study In Blue" by Sue Hillis.  I'm only stitching the box top sampler.  The circumfrence of the box will be wrapped in antique indigo fabric.  I'm waiting for the called for linen to use.  It is a beautiful book!  Full of gorgeous designs!

Last, but not least, is my project bag.  I wanted a Christmas themed bag (don't ask me why) and I love these with the handles. They are made by a gal in Findlay.

Well...it's Saturday.  We had a fun day antiquing yesterday, but I'll post my finds next time.  Take care and stay safe!  Thank you for reading my blog and the kind comments.  I have to moderate my comments because of the spam I get...UGH!