As always, your videos never disappoint. Lovely work on your mermaid. She is absolutely stunning. Thanks for the close up views of her. I also love the gold digger old world fabric.
Pam Reid Thank you Pam - love your videos too :) Had to remind my husband about geo-caching after watching your video. I mentioned wanting to do it several years ago, then totally forgot.... you reminded me, so thanks for that :) x
I've lived in the US for nearly two years and I still find how they say words hilarious. They've got an ad for an insurance company called State Farm here and it makes me giggle every single time because of the way they say 'khaki' in it. Even when I repeat the ad to people I adopt the American accent :P Loving your video's, gives me a little slice of home everytime :)
Sally Gilmour haha glad I'm not the only one Sally :) I love the quirky little pronunciations, but I'm sure they find ours just as funny! I'm very jealous you're living over there - my daughter and I would love to just pack up and move! Thanks for watching and happy stitching :) x
Wonderful video! I am sure that you have finished many things since this video was posted, but I want we to share my love of your beautiful mermaid. Happy Stitching!
Just watched all of your youtube videos in the last two days while stitching. Love them all especially the Mermaid. I can't believe how much detail you put into them. I'm also from Adelaide and I wish we had more needlework stores like the US. Again I love your videos and I love seeing all of your updates on Instragram.
Felicity Pidgeon Awww thank you so much Felicity! Yay for RAdelaide ;) Lucky there are some good online options out there, but it doesn't quite satisfy my need for browsing leisurely through a needlework store. Thanks so much for your lovely comments, there are very much appreciated :) x
Thanks Carolyn, I enjoy your videos very much, loved seeing your new fabric Gold digger old world map as I have a piece coming my way, love your finishes too, watching with interest for your new starts. Cheers..x
Yay! Congrats on your beautiful Mirabilia finish! She truly is gorgeous and it was great fun following your updates here and on IG. I like how you gave us a close-up of her. You're right; pictures don't do her sparkly awesomeness any justice. :-)
Darling Bluebell Thank you so much! Once she's framed I think I'll do a slideshow of the progress - start to finish. I always think they're fun to view. Happy stitching :) x
You're so inspiring! Beautiful mermaid, loved the close up look. I had comments running in my mind throughout your video, but I think I'll just sum up....Wow! Thanks so much for sharing and inspiring us!
Thank you once again for a lovely video. It's like you would send a little bit of sunshine to us with these videos =) I'm always delighted when I see that you have made a new video for us =D Your stitching looks awsome!
Carolyn, All I can say is WOW! Your projects are such a pleasure to see. Your mermaid turned out beautifully- the skin tone of the mermaid is incredible! Congrats on so many finishes! You are so inspiring & seeing your videos keeps me energized for all of my own projects. Keep up the great progress & all the best to your family & critters oh, & photo-bombing monkey too ;)
Lone Star Stitcher Thank you so much! It's certainly been a busy month, and next month will be no different. Haha monkey is only safe on the chair.... on the floor and he becomes dog food! lol! Happy stitching :) x
Your Mirabilia is beautiful. Congratulations on finishing it so quickly. I also love your Country Cottage Needleworks cottage. You introduced me to CCN and now I'm hooked! Your cards are also gorgeous, especially the one for your mum. Great stitching all round.
Ladybird Stitcher Thank you so much! Yes I saw your Paris design, and I love that one too. In fact I don't think there's a CNN that I don't love. Did you know that her daughter owns Little Cottage Needleworks? Her designs are super cute too! Sorry if that info ends up enabling you more! Thanks for watching and happy stitching :) x
Carolyn Mazzeo I did know that but luckily, although they are also nice, they don't appeal to me as much as CCN's designs. Phew - I'd be in trouble otherwise. Happy stitching :)
Absolutely beautiful work Carolyn (as always), l look forward to all your videos, keep them coming!! I'm a beginning stitcher and you are such an inspiration to me, I don't ever think I'll do a HEAD or Mirabelle but its sooo fun to watch everyone else complete them. =)
Laurel Campbell Thank you Laurel.... I'm a little bit over purple right now - I've had a purple overdose with the Easter project, the fabric and April Cottage. It's time for another colour :) x
Laurel Campbell The green is definitely my favourite..... which is surprising, because I'm not a lover of green :) I'll be looking for some nice monochromatic designs I think. Happy stitching :) x
I find your videos so inspiring, especially with the added closeups! We have similar taste in cross stitching and so it makes the time between your videos a loooooooooong wait for your wips, updates, etc. I want you to know that I didn't sleep hardly a wink last night after you mentioned giraffes!! I love giraffes and I saw a HAED design I like featuring 2 giraffes. Thanks again for your great videos!
Nancy Drake Giraffes would have to be the most beautiful creature on Earth - personally I think it's all about the eyes..... and those eyelashes!!!! When I start my new Giraffe design and I show it on the video, I'll include the photo's of my daughter and I at the zoo so you can see just how close we got. A very memorable experience indeed :)Thank you for your lovely comments Nancy, I truly appreciate them :) xx
Beautiful job as usual on all of them! The Mirabella is perfection! I liked the 2 over 2 decision you made on all of it and the 1 over 1 on the skin. Beautiful!
+Chris Crossiness Thank you so much Chris! I love stitching the skin over 1, but I know it's not for everyone. I will be continuing my future Mirabilia's and Celtic Ladies in the same way. Happy stitching :) x
Annabelle0926 Thank you so much! My wrist is just an old RSI that flares up from time to time.... nothing to worry about, and nothing to do with stitching... thank goodness! Happy stitching :) x
Carolyn totally loving all you wips and beautiful finishes - I have no idea how you get so much done. Your stitching is beautiful and all finished so well - you are my inspiration! Good luck with your Biscornu! I'm sure yours will be a breeze - mine has turned into the nightmare from hell project! So I'm very interested in your thoughts of ease on this. You are so well organised with you stitching and plans with all your rotations worked out! You are like super stitcher and totally love watching your videos 😉
Teresa Little Stitcher Thank you so much Teresa! Oh dear, what happened with your biscornu? I'm a naturally organised person in life, and when things are organised I get terribly stressed.... stitching is no different. If I have a plan, then I find it really easy to just follow the plan.... when I try to do things on the spur of the moment, that's when I usually get into trouble lol! Thanks for your lovely comments, as always :) x
Thank you that, it was very informative. I can't believe how much stitching you do in a month ! Whats your secret ? Anyway, loved the Biscornu, it will look beautiful with the beads and the Miriabilia is gorgeous, well done ! What a find with the DMC threads and I am sure they will all be used eventually !!
Your Mermaid is absolutely gorgeous. You do fantastic work. Looks like you have a very energetic schedule coming up. Good luck with all your new starts.
The mermaid is just beautiful! Thank you for doing the close-ups, I love seeing the details on projects. I really like the 1 over 1 for her skin. I'm planning to do a mirabilia once I'm done the big project that I'm on. I like the purple easter eggs too. (All of your projects look great, of course, but those are my favourites).
Carrieliney Thank you so much! I like close-ups too and I always feel a little sad when I can't see more of what someone is showing. I feel like reaching through the monitor and grabbing it so I can take a better look LOL! Mira's are my new favourite design, and I love how they stitch up better than their photos. Thanks for watching and happy stitching :) x
the mermaid is absolutely gorgeous! I'm jealous of how quickly you can start and finish a project :) Looking forward to your next update - and hopefully your wrist feels better soon.
Jennifer Apodaca Thanks Jennifer. The only secret I have is two handed stitching.... I find this definitely speeds things up for me and I can achieve a lot in one evening because of it. When I stitch a card, using a hoop, the progress is much slower. The wrist is just an old RSI that flares up from time to time, nothing to worry about..... but thank you for your well wishes :) Happy stitching :) x
Your mermaid is perfection! So beautiful. I have the very same biscornu kit, but haven't started it yet. Looking forward to watching your progress. Lovely work, as always. Thanks for sharing it.
Cheryl TheWaysideStitcher Thanks Cheryl. The Sweetheart Tree have such gorgeous designs, it was hard to choose just one. But I told myself I'd buy another one as a reward for doing the first one.... fair right? LOL Thank you for your lovely comments, as always :) x
Love all your projects. I am doing the Celtic Autumn conversion too. I'm waiting for my fabric to arrive. I have all the beads and floss. I just love the colors! Your mermaid is beautiful. The cottages are beautiful. Can't wait to see all the updates!
Joanne B Oh yay Joanne! Are you doing Janet Granger's conversion, or another one? I noticed there were some more on the forum wall. We can compare notes :))))
The one I'm doing is by Lorraine Matthews. It's on the Lavender and Lace Group 2 last item in the file. I do like how your version is holding leaves. Mine has her hand tucked as if she is holding her sash?
Joanne B There seems to be a FB group for every big cross stitch designer these days. I've joined that one now too... hopefully might pick up some tips ;) I look forward to seeing the conversion you're doing. :) x
Carolyn, Once again great video. "Mermaid of Atlantis" is absolutely stunning can't wait until it is a FFO. You save the stitches is turning out beautiful on the black. Put the Traveling stitcher chart on my wish list I think it would make a perfect pocket for my new stitching tote bag. Love everything you showed as your new starts can't wait to see the progress... Did you mention giraffes I am an huge fan of giraffes I have collect over 150 different giraffes and a few metal art one from hubby as well. Can't wait to see what you will be stitching. HUGS, Patty BC Canada
Patty Smith Thank you Patty. Judging by the original price on the pkt (Traveling Stitcher), it's not a cheap piece but it is so darned cute! I think it would look awesome on your tote bag! I've been looking for a particular Giraffe chart for a long time.... and when I saw this one, I knew it was "the one". My daughter and I were very fortunate in having a one-on-one experience in the Giraffe exhibit at our zoo. We got to get up VERY close to them, feed them and learn all about them from their keeper. It was a day to remember, and I've been waiting for "the chart" to commemorate that experience. I can't tell you how excited I am to stitch it. The only reason I'm not doing it next, is I'm still deciding on which fabric to use for it. Can't wait to share it with you all :) x
I found the pattern with threads on 123 stitch for $19.79 can't wait for it to arrive. Ohh how awesome about your experience I have fed the giraffes as well many years ago. I will wait to see what wonderful project you have decided on. Hugs, Patty
I just love this video. First, let me just say I have emailed two different hand dyed fabric suppliers and searched far and wide online for a fabric that looks like old parchment. I want to stitch the Desiderata poem for my husband and I specifically want it on a fabric that looks like parchment, so I was SO EXCITED to see your Old World fabric. I also just purchased the same Needleworker kit this past weekend! Great minds. I didn't know the sweetheart tree biscornu was a kit!! You've enabled me!! I found myself on 123 stitch at 12:30 in the morning thanks to you and your video!!! Love the video!!! Your mirabilia is amazing. PS...I LOVE GIRAFFES. I am waiting on baited breath
Latisha Beckett Thanks Latisha! I'm very happy that I helped solve a problem for you with the fabric - Colour Cascades fabrics are beautiful, and you should get a bargain with the Aussie dollar being so low at the moment. Yay for the Needleworker kit - really looking forward to starting that one. I hope it's as quick to stitch up as it looks. I also like the other design in the series (the sampler one with the house and the alphabet) but I don't NEED that one yet LOL. Ahhhh if only 123stitch paid commission :))))) I'm on a self imposed stash diet so I must stay away for awhile..... I made a very large purchase (which sadly, did not involve a Chatelaine), so I'm going to try and be good ;) I look forward to sharing my Giraffe design with you all, and the photo's of our zoo experience too! Happy stitching :) x
I still am amazed at how much you get done with your month! Mermaid of Atlantis is beautiful. You should be very pleased with how she came out! All of those beads really do make a difference. I will be excited to start beading my mermaid! I'm still working on the skin, though... The little cottages are too cute! Blackwork sampler is looking very nice. And Refleggions looks so pretty! The purple is perfect for Easter. And your thoughts on the word khaki made me laugh. I had to say it out loud both times! I love listening to you and the other Aussies to pick up the accent. The Australian one is one I haven't yet been able to get. I can do a few phrases, but it doesn't hold very well, haha. At least now I can pronounce khaki!
BlimeyCatStitches Thank you... I've amazed myself too! I've never completed this many designs in a year, and we're only a few months in! Car-key vs Cack-ee LOL! I love hearing people attempt accents.... some people are so good at it - sadly I'm not one of them. :) Thanks for your continued support and lovely comments, as always :)))) x
Carolyn! Mermaid! Wow. You know I blame you for making me consider a Mirabillia, I never thought I would but following this piece... Well it's your fault! Dying to bead my STS as I've never done beading before. Good on you for all those new starts! Look forward to seeing your progress as always 😊
Pyrex Stitches Haha thanks Claire, you know I'm always happy to enable others :) The beading on mermaid took longer than I thought - I imagined getting it done in one evening... definitely not the case! But it is very addictive filling in those empty spots as well as enjoyable. I got to use my new tacky bob too, which did the job perfectly and saved me from dropping thousands of beads all over the lounge room floor LOL. I have beaded once before (on my marriage sampler), but there were only a few beads, and I followed their instructions for adding them..... a half cross stitch! No wonder they don't sit nice in the frame ggrrr! If only I had UA-cam and Google back then. Happy stitching :) x
What a wonderful video. First congrats on you FFOs and finishes. I really love the Easter design. I would be interested in seeing how you put it all together. I also liked your new starts patterns. It seems you'll be busy this month, Happy Stitching!!!
Katrina Munguia Thanks so much Katrina. Now I'm back from holiday I'll start putting together a video of the wallhanging and how I completed it. Yes, May is going to be VERY busy and quite stressful, so I hope the stitching will ease some of the burden :)Happy stitching :) x
Beautiful finishes as always!! I tried to do the one over one on At The Met and it did not go well but I will try again on Lady Alexandra which I am stitching now, she has less skin. I love the little cottage you did, it looks bigger than I thought they would, I am doing mine on one big piece of linen and just got the threads in the mail and will be starting the first three months next week. Love the Little House Needleworks patterns also, can never have enough of them! Thanks for sharing and hope all is well!
Theresa Feeney Thank you so much Theresa for your lovely comments, as always! I hope you have better luck with the skin on the next try, but if not, don't worry too much about it. Those designs are all gorgeous anyway and not too many people are going to notice how the skin is stitched. Yes the cottage is bigger than I though too. Even after seeing the size of the fabric, I envisaged it being smaller. Still very lovely and they will look amazing stitched together in one piece.... I may even attempt that myself next year, that is if something else hasn't taken my fancy! Thanks for your continued support. Happy stitching :) x
Carolyn, your stitching speed is amazing! I'm still working on a little London Double Decker Bus that I started a couple weeks ago. Clearly I don't stitch that often! Your finishes are beautiful, and I get inspiration from you! I've gone crazy on ebay recently and have so many kits/patterns I will have to live to 125 to finish them all. Thanks for a great video. Sorry to see your "stitchers wrist"....
Jeri Lane Hi Jeri, I stitch 4-5 hours each night and I've found using the two handed method to work extremely well for me - that has definitely sped the stitching up. I've banned myself from eBay for awhile.... impulse buying is not a good idea for me, when I already have a stack of things I want to stitch. The wrist is an old RSI that flares up from time to time... actually has nothing to do with stitching, surprisingly! I just wear the brace for about 3 days and I'm good as new again. It's been a year since the last flare up, so I can't really complain. Thanks for watching and happy stitching :) x
I'm gradually getting caught up on my youtube after being away for a few weeks. :) Your mermaid is lovely! I am constantly in awe of how much you get done from video to video. Must get cracking - I'm so behind on my current project. ^_^;
Your Mirabilia is beautiful!!! I always look forward to your updates. I look forward to seeing all your WIP's progress. Still no sign of the package I sent you.
TheBrneyedgirl328 Thank you! No I haven't seen it yet :( My fabric from Stephanie took a lot longer to arrive this month, so there's been a hold up somewhere. I will let you know the second it arrives :) Happy stitching :) x
Your mermaid is beautiful!!! Congrats on getting her all done! I usually find cross stitches look better from farther away but I loved yours more the closer you got to it :) I would love to do all the Mirabilia mermaids... a girl can dream haha. Save the stitches looks great!!! Makes me want to haul mine back out and get some more stitched on it :) Your April cottage is lovely. It is much bigger than I imagined too. And I love the card stitches!! I also loved seeing all of your upcoming plans. I am sure they are all stitched by now since I am so behind lol. I am so excited to see your Celtic Autumn, she is beautiful!! :)
Khristine Doiron Good luck on catching up with your videos... it took me ages to catch up when I got behind recently. There's a funny update on the STS (well it's funny now!) and I've managed to finish the May and June cottages and make them into cute little cubes which I adore. Blue Dragon is at the framers and will be ready this week.... so I'm super excited about that! Thank you for your very kind comments - I truly appreciate them all :) xx
Carolyn Mazzeo I know! It seems I am getting further behind all the time!! There are just too many of you making videos now! :) Not that I mind or anything haha. I can't wait to see Blue Dragon framed, that is so exciting!!! And thank you for making videos, I appreciate every one of them :):)
Khristine Doiron I think I'm behind on all the newbies, but I'll find some more soon. Had a phone call from the framers yesterday to say my chosen frame is out of stock and won't be in until late July, early Aug :( I'm either going to have to choose something else or be very patient. I'm waiting for them to call me back to let me know if they have any similar products that I can use instead. Ugh just knew it was too good to be true. xx
Carolyn Mazzeo Oh no!! My vote is to be patient, something that beautiful deserves the perfect frame :) But I know I would have a very hard time waiting hehe :)
Hooray! Mermaid of Atlantis looks absolutely beautiful. Thanks for the close up look. :) I've seen it on Instagram and Facebook but it was nice to see it on video! You did such a good job! :) You have a loooad of stitchy plans! I'm looking forward to seeing them all come into fruition. Hahaha, we pronounce khaki much the same as you, I think. It's interesting to me how different some words are pronounced between countries that speak English.Like, I think Australians pronounce route the same as Americans whereas we say 'root', and that always baffles me. I am intrigued about your secret project. :) xx
Emily Chadwick Hi again :) Thanks so much, she was so much fun to stitch. I was looking at my Mira's yesterday, trying to decide which one to start next.... and I can't! NEVER give a Libran too many choices!!!!! LOL! Yes lot's to do but not enough time to do it all.... that would be in the stitchy bible (if we had one)! Yes we do pronounce khaki the same, as well as many others. I think the reason we say some American pronunciations and some English has a lot to do with our parents. Both my parents are English so I naturally pronounce words the English way. With words like route, both forms are acceptable here and I say root, but I think route (American) makes more sense because of how we pronounce the ou in noun. English, they say, is the hardest language to learn.... now I know why, so many different spellings and pronunciations for the same words.... very confusing!! I've shown my secret project on my latest video (not really a secret, just wasn't ready to show it yet LOL). I can't wait to start it and I'm eagerly counting the days :) Take care and happy stitching :) xx
English is a weird language. Good luck choosing your next Mira! Maybe you could show us what you've narrowed it down to and ask opinions if you're really struggling? :) xx
I know that every single time I see your Mermaid of Atlantis, be it here or on Instagram, I gush all over the place... But it is just so flipping gorgeous! :) Also, the next time you worry about your dog's snoring, just remember that my cat vomited loudly in my last video.
I blame you for my wanting to do Mermaid of Atlantis. It's sooo pretty! I'm sorry you can't join us for May-nia, but I totally understand :) That fabric is GORGEOUS! (Devil W/a Blue Dress that is)
CoffeeStitcher Haha you should so do it Garrett! She was soooo much fun to stitch, and I actually miss her :( I'm so looking forward to you guys doing the May-nia and seeing how much you get done each day. Yes the fabric is gorgeous... love my bling, bling :) x
Hi Carolyn, you are one of my very favorite video posters. My goodness, how beautiful are your works?! Your mermaid is simply breathtaking. I will likely never do anything so involved, but how wonderful that you share your talent with us. What fabric did you use for her? Was it a linen or an Evenweave? From your close ups it looked like something even I might be able to stitch on. ;) I believe I heard you offer to show how you put together your purple Easter wall hanging. I would really appreciate seeing that. I thoroughly enjoyed your cushion tutorial. Also, in your last video when you mentioned and showed the CCN Cottages of the Month, I fell in love with them! Since you've decided not to do the flat fold finishes on those, I'm anxious to hear what your new idea is for them. Thank you so much for all your wonderful videos!
Tara Ward Hi Tara, thank you so much for your lovely comment :) I stitched the Mermaid on 28ct Lugana which is an even weave and a definite favourite of mine. You could most definitely stitch on it.... the fabric is beautiful to work with. Not sure if you've seen it, but one of my previous videos gives some tips on stitching on even weave and linen. It's not as scary as it looks, just takes a little more time in counting the placement of the stitches. Before long it becomes second nature. Yes I'm happy to do the wallhanging tutorial for you, but it will have to wait until I get back from my holiday. I haven't completed counted out doing the flat fold on the cottages, but there are a few other finishing ideas I have in mind too. I'm still very undecided at the moment, and I'm not really allowing myself to think about it because there are so many things going on in my head regarding my daughter's party plans etc lol! Thanks so much for watching and happy stitching :) x
Carolyn Mazzeo Hi Carolyn. Thank you for replying. Yes, I have seen your wonderful video regarding stitching on evenweave and linen. Because of that video, I did experiment with some inexpensive 28 ct. evenweave from my Michaels. Interesting note: the measurements on that piece did not match with the label on it! It was labeled as 28 ct but seemed to be producing a larger design than I expected and it turned out to be 23 ct. Odd. Anyway, even with that issue I still very much enjoyed the experience of stitching on it. Yay! I have since ordered 3 pieces of 28 ct. Lugana from 1,2,3 Stitch and am boldly moving forward with plans for all of them. Thank you for so much encouragement with both your WIP videos and your tutorial videos. Of course, I will gladly wait for your wall-hanging tutorial. And that hanger you used with your purple piece is very nice--do you plan to use it for other hangings as well because I assume it is easy to change it out when you want to display a different piece. Could you share where you purchased that hanger? I hope all goes well with your various family happenings going on and will look forward to your next appearance on Flosstube!
Tara Ward Sorry for the late reply.... have been away on holiday :) Came back to a mountain of messages and 100s of UA-cam videos to catch up on!! Wow I haven't experienced being supplied with the wrong count before, but I guess mistakes are always possible. Maybe someone got the 3 and the 8 mixed up.... but I've never heard of 23 count before either! Lugana is beautiful and my favourite evenweave (although I haven't tried them all), it's just so soft to work with, unlike Aida. I will start working on the video ASAP, so hopefully it will be done soon. I actually got the hanger from a garage sale - it had a quilted wall hanging on it too. I only wanted the hanger, but I kept the quilt panel as a reference to see how it hung on there. You're right, it is changeable. The wooden dowel can be removed from the metal bars at either end, and you just slide the material on. I haven't seen another one exactly like it, but our local craft chain (Spotlight) does sell smaller ones with different designs at the top. I do plan on using the same hanger and interchanging it for designs of the same size. I also have a couple of smaller hangers which will hopefully get used sometime in the future too. Hope you have a great stitchy day/night :) x
Your stitching is beautiful !! Could you please tell me where you got the conversion for the Autumn Lavender and Lace. Thank You, Michele Looking forward to your next video update.
David DuBreck Thank you so much Michele. I got the conversion from Janet Granger's blog... here's the link: janetgranger.wordpress.com/category/embroidery/full-size-others-designs/lavender-and-lace-celtic-autumn/ She also has a few photo's of the finished piece, which is gorgeous :) x
Carolyn how I admire you and your beautiful stitching. I have always wanted to do celtic autumn in those colors but cant find a chart to help me with changes. Would appreciate if you could help me, Thank you LIz
Liz Thompson Hi Liz, I found the Celtic Autumn changes on Janet Granger's blog. Here's the link: janetgranger.wordpress.com/category/embroidery/full-size-others-designs/lavender-and-lace-celtic-autumn/It's pretty self explanatory, and there's pictures also. You can also contact her by email, which is what I did... she's a lovely lady. Thanks for watching and happy stitching :) x
Carolyn, Lovely video as always. Mirabillia is so beautiful, congrats on the finish. 121 a typing error me thinks lol!! Some of the bright yellows are in the 700's. Looking forward to seeing your Biscornu wips in the future, great bargain on DMC threads. Have you strained your wrist? Hugs Amanda xxxxx
Amanda Williamson Hi Amanda, my first thought was 721 but I looked it up and it's an orange. Doesn't matter, I'm sure I'll find something in my stash to match it with. Thank you for your lovely comments :) The wrist is an old RSI that troubles me from time to time..... it's actually been a year since I had problems with it, so I can't really complain. Happy stitching :) x
jillipepper5353 It's just an old RSI that flares up from time to time.... nothing to worry about, but thank you for your concern :) Thanks for watching and happy stitching :) x
My goodness Carolyn what have you done to your arm? Sorry as soon as I realized it was a brace of some sort I was seeing it made me me very very curious, forgive me if I am being to nosy. I will think of you when ever I hear or say the word khaki, love your Aussie accent but the way you say it would be something we start our cars with rofl and being from New England where our particular verbal quirk is that we rarely pronounce the letter R it comes out as kaahhhkey , lol. Your Mermaid is stunning and so encouraging, my Lilac fairy is looking a bit of a mess at the moment, all those empty spots where the beads are meant to go on her skirt*sigh* I am so tempted to go ahead and start beading all ready. Fantastic fabrics, I thought of Star Gazer when I saw the first blue, no idea if the floss colors would match or clash but that sparkle was so star like and perhaps another mermaid on the clouds fabric? I think the color conversion on Celtic Autumn is perfect, way more autumnal than the lavender.
saja abdullah Hi Saja, nice to hear from you again :) No need to worry, it's an old RSI that flares up from time to time. It's actually been a year since it's given me any problems, so I can't really complain. I just wear a brace for about 3-4 days and them I'm good as new again :) Khaki.... hahahahaha.... sorry, but it sounds so funny. I can imagine CarKey would sound hilarious to you all too :))))))) I wanted to fill in those empty spots too, but I decided it would be my reward for when I finished stitching...... which just urged me on even more to get it done :) I don't have the Star Gazer chart (although she is on my wish list), but I have quite a few Mira designs that actually call for that type of fabric, so I'm sure something will suit. It is very sparkly :) Next month, Celtic Autumn is the one I'm looking forward to the most. I've been wanting to stitch her forever! I can't believe the time is nearly here :) Thanks so much for your lovely comments, as always.... Happy stitching :) x
Hi Carolyn, great video as always. Loved your finishes. I do need to ask you a question. What type of frame do you use and how much extra fabric do you add to each piece. You are my inspiration. Happy Stitching.
MARY ELLEN JONES Awww thanks so much Mary Ellen, that means a lot to me :) I use a Millennium frame for stitching and the amount of extra fabric I allow to each piece really depends on how I plan on finishing it. On average for a design I plan to frame I add 2-3" around the whole design.... so 4-6" to the width and height. For small projects like cards, usually 1" all around is enough. Hope this has answered your question. Thanks so much for watching, and happy stitching :) x
loved your video as usual! I'm starting the "save the stitches" project soon and I use scroll frames as well. I was wondering if the beading would get damaged on the frame or are you planning to add the beading "in hand"?
Lisa Alexander Hi Lisa, that's a great question and one I didn't know the answer to either, until I did my Mermaid. I had read others' say the scroll frames can crush the beading, but I wanted to see for myself. I kept my project on the frame, but didn't do the bars up super tight..... Although the beads didn't crush, they did move a little. I've decided for my STS that I'll probably bead in hand, because the fabric is MUCH larger and there will be more potential for movement/crushing. I'm already guessing that beading in hand will be difficult because of the size of the project. I guess I'll just have to see how I go when the time comes. Happy stitching :) x
So many great wips and finishes! I love that black lugana piece with the white, teal, and silver metallics! Did you get that one out of a book? I'd love to do something like that!
Tim Walker Thanks so much Tim. The Blackword piece you're referring to is actually a freebie!!! A heap of us on IG and UA-cam are doing a SAL called #savethestiches. Liz Almond has created this amazing piece and you choose your own fabric, thread, metallic and bead colours. So every piece is unique. Here's the link to her page: www.blackworkjourney.co.uk/freebies1.shtml The Intro and Blocks 1-6 start on page 2, and Blocks 7-24 are on page 1 (which I sent you). She also has loads of other freebie designs that are smaller, in case you want to try out something little before committing to the big project. Also at the top of the page that I sent you is the Box Of Delights, which some other stitchers are also doing a SAL for.... Enjoy :)
Carolyn I have to ask... Because I haven't done beading before, do you bead horizontal? As in your thread goes across the middle of the square? Thank you :)
Pyrex Stitches Hi Claire, you know I'm never sure whether to call it horizontal or vertical?.... It's definitely not diagonal. I add the beads to the middle of the square with the holes of the beads laying on the left & right sides of the bead, as opposed to top and bottom. I actually used "thelovelyarray"s tutorial, which I found super easy to understand and the beads are very well secured. Here's the link: ua-cam.com/video/bzVELRtwWrIH/v-deo.htmlope this helps hun :) x
Hi Carolyn, love your work the mirabilia is gorgeous, few questions if I may, 1) how do you keep your threads so neat when cross stitching? my threads always end up twisting round each other so one thread ends up on top of the other and I'm having to take my needle off and split them apart, so time consuming. 2) how do you attach the beads on the work? and 3) would you ever sell any of your work? X
Sam Jones Hi Sam, I always happy to answer questions. 1) I find it helps to let your needle drop from your work occasionally to allow it to spin out the tangles. Also I use a laying tool (not all the time though) which helps the stitches to lay flat. You can also try railroading the stitches..... where you place the needle in-between the two strands before placing it through the hole... this helps separate the strands and lays them flat too. I find this a little more time consuming than the laying tool, but everyone has their own preferences. 2) I use invisible thread to attach the beads, and I used the method that "thelovelyarray" showed in her UA-cam video here: ua-cam.com/video/bzVELRtwWrI/v-deo.html The beads are VERY secure and I am super happy with them. 3) That's a toughie..... I've never been asked before. I wouldn't even know what to charge, and what would be fair for both parties. Hope this helps :) x
Sam Jones It's a long metal spike that attaches to your finger. I found this video that will explain it better than I can in words: ua-cam.com/video/HSEVU2gWZhY/v-deo.html I purchased mine from 123stitch.com
I realise this is a older video so i hope you receive this comment. I've only been stitching for a few years so I only tend to do kits and stitch on aida. Seeing all you're finished inspires me to try new things such as evenweave fabrics and beading. When you did a close up of you're work I was looking at you're back stitch. Do you do each stitch individually or will you let it go down two or three stitches? I hope that makes sense. Thank you in advance. I love you're videos and you're work! Keep stitching 😊
Hazel Day Hi Hazel and welcome :) In regards to the backstitch it really depends on the design I'm stitching - I have done both methods. For the mermaid I backstitched individually, except where her jawline is where there is longer backstitching due to the start and finish point of the stitch. For her skin in general, I backstitched as though I was doing the normal 'over 2' in that area, because to do it 'over 1' like the stitches, they would have looked too small and messy. So in that area they actually look longer, compared to the 'over 1' stitches, but they're not. It's just a matter of trial and error really. For some designs I've tried doing long backstitches and it doesn't look right, so I do shorter ones - other times it's the opposite. I guess it just depends on our own interpretation of the chart and what feels right to us. Thank you for your very kind comments :) x
rachelallencamus FFO = Fully Finished Object. I felt the need to mention it a few videos ago when I discovered it on a sewing/stitching terms page on the internet. No-one really knew what to call the designs we have finished stitching AND finished completely into an object (i.e. framed piece, wall hanging, pillow etc). Most people were calling them a Finished Finish, which just didn't sound right. When I saw FFO, I knew I had to call it that, and some other stitchers have liked it also :) x
Sarah Wright So sorry, I just realised I didn't put that in my video description.... will fix that! The fabrics I showed were purchased from colourcascadefabrics.com.au and they are based in Western Australia. I also get fabrics from stephsfabbys.com where I am a member of the Fabric Of The Month club.
I loved the close-ups of the mermaid! She is gorgeous! I'm looking forward to starting the cottages next month. I'm @stitchymom on Instagram. :) You have me very curious about your giraffe project. I adore giraffes so I am excited to see what it is!!!! Happy stitching!
Kristin Choate Hi Kristin :)) I'm looking forward to you joining me too! Hmmm I'll have to share the Giraffe experience photos when I show the new design too. Hopefully you'll enjoy it. Happy stitching to you too :) x
I love love love watching your videos!! Every time I see a new one in my subscription box, I know I'm going to have to delay any activities for a while! Thanks for the past 30 minutes of enjoyment!
As always, your videos never disappoint. Lovely work on your mermaid. She is absolutely stunning. Thanks for the close up views of her. I also love the gold digger old world fabric.
Pam Reid Thank you Pam - love your videos too :) Had to remind my husband about geo-caching after watching your video. I mentioned wanting to do it several years ago, then totally forgot.... you reminded me, so thanks for that :) x
Carolyn you are amazing! Love all of your finishes but mostly your Mermaid she stitched up gorgeous. Always best wishes come your way.
Rena Furman Thank you so much Rena, and thank you for your continued support and always lovely comments :) x
I've lived in the US for nearly two years and I still find how they say words hilarious. They've got an ad for an insurance company called State Farm here and it makes me giggle every single time because of the way they say 'khaki' in it. Even when I repeat the ad to people I adopt the American accent :P Loving your video's, gives me a little slice of home everytime :)
Sally Gilmour haha glad I'm not the only one Sally :) I love the quirky little pronunciations, but I'm sure they find ours just as funny! I'm very jealous you're living over there - my daughter and I would love to just pack up and move! Thanks for watching and happy stitching :) x
Wonderful video! I am sure that you have finished many things since this video was posted, but I want we to share my love of your beautiful mermaid. Happy Stitching!
Just watched all of your youtube videos in the last two days while stitching. Love them all especially the Mermaid. I can't believe how much detail you put into them. I'm also from Adelaide and I wish we had more needlework stores like the US. Again I love your videos and I love seeing all of your updates on Instragram.
Felicity Pidgeon Awww thank you so much Felicity! Yay for RAdelaide ;) Lucky there are some good online options out there, but it doesn't quite satisfy my need for browsing leisurely through a needlework store. Thanks so much for your lovely comments, there are very much appreciated :) x
Thanks Carolyn, I enjoy your videos very much, loved seeing your new fabric Gold digger old world map as I have a piece coming my way, love your finishes too, watching with interest for your new starts. Cheers..x
Robyn Wallace Thanks Robyn - that fabric is so lovely and could be used on any number of projects. I'm sure you'll love it. Happy stitching :) x
Yay! Congrats on your beautiful Mirabilia finish! She truly is gorgeous and it was great fun following your updates here and on IG. I like how you gave us a close-up of her. You're right; pictures don't do her sparkly awesomeness any justice. :-)
Darling Bluebell Thank you so much! Once she's framed I think I'll do a slideshow of the progress - start to finish. I always think they're fun to view. Happy stitching :) x
You're so inspiring! Beautiful mermaid, loved the close up look. I had comments running in my mind throughout your video, but I think I'll just sum up....Wow! Thanks so much for sharing and inspiring us!
Stitching with a Smile Oooh you changed your name? I like it! Thanks so much Nina, your lovely comments are always appreciated :) x
Thank you once again for a lovely video. It's like you would send a little bit of sunshine to us with these videos =) I'm always delighted when I see that you have made a new video for us =D Your stitching looks awsome!
Virpi R Awww... thank you so much! Your beautiful comments are always appreciated Virpi :) x
Carolyn, All I can say is WOW! Your projects are such a pleasure to see. Your mermaid turned out beautifully- the skin tone of the mermaid is incredible! Congrats on so many finishes! You are so inspiring & seeing your videos keeps me energized for all of my own projects. Keep up the great progress & all the best to your family & critters oh, & photo-bombing monkey too ;)
Lone Star Stitcher Thank you so much! It's certainly been a busy month, and next month will be no different. Haha monkey is only safe on the chair.... on the floor and he becomes dog food! lol! Happy stitching :) x
Your Mirabilia is beautiful. Congratulations on finishing it so quickly. I also love your Country Cottage Needleworks cottage. You introduced me to CCN and now I'm hooked! Your cards are also gorgeous, especially the one for your mum. Great stitching all round.
Ladybird Stitcher Thank you so much! Yes I saw your Paris design, and I love that one too. In fact I don't think there's a CNN that I don't love. Did you know that her daughter owns Little Cottage Needleworks? Her designs are super cute too! Sorry if that info ends up enabling you more! Thanks for watching and happy stitching :) x
Carolyn Mazzeo I did know that but luckily, although they are also nice, they don't appeal to me as much as CCN's designs. Phew - I'd be in trouble otherwise. Happy stitching :)
Ladybird Stitcher :)
Absolutely beautiful work Carolyn (as always), l look forward to all your videos, keep them coming!! I'm a beginning stitcher and you are such an inspiration to me, I don't ever think I'll do a HEAD or Mirabelle but its sooo fun to watch everyone else complete them. =)
Missy Como Sorry meant Mirabillia not Mirabelle lol!!
Missy Como Thank you so much! You know what they say..... Never say Never! LOL.
Thank you for watching and happy stitching :) x
I love your Easter wall hanging - your kids picked out just the right color for Easter. beautiful finish. your mermaid is also lovely.
Laurel Campbell Thank you Laurel.... I'm a little bit over purple right now - I've had a purple overdose with the Easter project, the fabric and April Cottage. It's time for another colour :) x
Carolyn MazzeoI Haha. I love that green color you got at the thrift store! You've lots and lots of those 8 colors :)
Laurel Campbell The green is definitely my favourite..... which is surprising, because I'm not a lover of green :) I'll be looking for some nice monochromatic designs I think. Happy stitching :) x
I find your videos so inspiring, especially with the added closeups! We have similar taste in cross stitching and so it makes the time between your videos a loooooooooong wait for your wips, updates, etc. I want you to know that I didn't sleep hardly a wink last night after you mentioned giraffes!! I love giraffes and I saw a HAED
design I like featuring 2 giraffes. Thanks again for your great videos!
Nancy Drake Giraffes would have to be the most beautiful creature on Earth - personally I think it's all about the eyes..... and those eyelashes!!!! When I start my new Giraffe design and I show it on the video, I'll include the photo's of my daughter and I at the zoo so you can see just how close we got. A very memorable experience indeed :)Thank you for your lovely comments Nancy, I truly appreciate them :) xx
Beautiful job as usual on all of them! The Mirabella is perfection! I liked the 2 over 2 decision you made on all of it and the 1 over 1 on the skin. Beautiful!
+Chris Crossiness Thank you so much Chris! I love stitching the skin over 1, but I know it's not for everyone. I will be continuing my future Mirabilia's and Celtic Ladies in the same way.
Happy stitching :) x
Love your Mirabilia finish! And that olde world map fabric is beautiful!! Great Haul!
Carolyn, I always look forward to watching your videos! Your mermaid is just beautiful and Save the Stitches, too. Hope your arm/wrist is OK.
Annabelle0926 Thank you so much! My wrist is just an old RSI that flares up from time to time.... nothing to worry about, and nothing to do with stitching... thank goodness! Happy stitching :) x
Carolyn totally loving all you wips and beautiful finishes - I have no idea how you get so much done. Your stitching is beautiful and all finished so well - you are my inspiration!
Good luck with your Biscornu! I'm sure yours will be a breeze - mine has turned into the nightmare from hell project! So I'm very interested in your thoughts of ease on this.
You are so well organised with you stitching and plans with all your rotations worked out! You are like super stitcher and totally love watching your videos
😉
Teresa Little Stitcher Thank you so much Teresa! Oh dear, what happened with your biscornu? I'm a naturally organised person in life, and when things are organised I get terribly stressed.... stitching is no different. If I have a plan, then I find it really easy to just follow the plan.... when I try to do things on the spur of the moment, that's when I usually get into trouble lol! Thanks for your lovely comments, as always :) x
Thank you that, it was very informative. I can't believe how much stitching you do in a month ! Whats your secret ? Anyway, loved the Biscornu, it will look beautiful with the beads and the Miriabilia is gorgeous, well done ! What a find with the DMC threads and I am sure they will all be used eventually !!
Your Mermaid is absolutely gorgeous. You do fantastic work. Looks like you have a very energetic schedule coming up. Good luck with all your new starts.
Febby Marsh Thanks Febby - I'm going to need it :o
Fantastic finishes and hauls. Lots of fun projects coming up in May, I look forward to seeing them.
Palette PC Thanks so much ! :) x
The mermaid is just beautiful! Thank you for doing the close-ups, I love seeing the details on projects. I really like the 1 over 1 for her skin. I'm planning to do a mirabilia once I'm done the big project that I'm on. I like the purple easter eggs too. (All of your projects look great, of course, but those are my favourites).
Carrieliney Thank you so much! I like close-ups too and I always feel a little sad when I can't see more of what someone is showing. I feel like reaching through the monitor and grabbing it so I can take a better look LOL! Mira's are my new favourite design, and I love how they stitch up better than their photos. Thanks for watching and happy stitching :) x
the mermaid is absolutely gorgeous! I'm jealous of how quickly you can start and finish a project :) Looking forward to your next update - and hopefully your wrist feels better soon.
Jennifer Apodaca Thanks Jennifer. The only secret I have is two handed stitching.... I find this definitely speeds things up for me and I can achieve a lot in one evening because of it. When I stitch a card, using a hoop, the progress is much slower.
The wrist is just an old RSI that flares up from time to time, nothing to worry about..... but thank you for your well wishes :)
Happy stitching :) x
Your mermaid is perfection! So beautiful. I have the very same biscornu kit, but haven't started it yet. Looking forward to watching your progress. Lovely work, as always. Thanks for sharing it.
Cheryl TheWaysideStitcher Thanks Cheryl. The Sweetheart Tree have such gorgeous designs, it was hard to choose just one. But I told myself I'd buy another one as a reward for doing the first one.... fair right? LOL Thank you for your lovely comments, as always :) x
Beautiful work sweetie congrats on your finish happy stitching xx
crossstitchbutton Thanks so much! :) x
Love all your projects. I am doing the Celtic Autumn conversion too. I'm waiting for my fabric to arrive. I have all the beads and floss. I just love the colors! Your mermaid is beautiful. The cottages are beautiful. Can't wait to see all the updates!
Joanne B Oh yay Joanne! Are you doing Janet Granger's conversion, or another one? I noticed there were some more on the forum wall. We can compare notes :))))
The one I'm doing is by Lorraine Matthews. It's on the Lavender and Lace Group 2 last item in the file. I do like how your version is holding leaves. Mine has her hand tucked as if she is holding her sash?
Joanne B There seems to be a FB group for every big cross stitch designer these days. I've joined that one now too... hopefully might pick up some tips ;) I look forward to seeing the conversion you're doing. :) x
Great video!! Beautiful finishes and I love your haul!
Calico Thanks so much! :) x
Carolyn,
Once again great video. "Mermaid of Atlantis" is absolutely stunning can't wait until it is a FFO. You save the stitches is turning out beautiful on the black. Put the Traveling stitcher chart on my wish list I think it would make a perfect pocket for my new stitching tote bag. Love everything you showed as your new starts can't wait to see the progress... Did you mention giraffes I am an huge fan of giraffes I have collect over 150 different giraffes and a few metal art one from hubby as well. Can't wait to see what you will be stitching.
HUGS, Patty BC Canada
Patty Smith Thank you Patty. Judging by the original price on the pkt (Traveling Stitcher), it's not a cheap piece but it is so darned cute! I think it would look awesome on your tote bag!
I've been looking for a particular Giraffe chart for a long time.... and when I saw this one, I knew it was "the one". My daughter and I were very fortunate in having a one-on-one experience in the Giraffe exhibit at our zoo. We got to get up VERY close to them, feed them and learn all about them from their keeper. It was a day to remember, and I've been waiting for "the chart" to commemorate that experience. I can't tell you how excited I am to stitch it. The only reason I'm not doing it next, is I'm still deciding on which fabric to use for it. Can't wait to share it with you all :) x
I found the pattern with threads on 123 stitch for $19.79 can't wait for it to arrive. Ohh how awesome about your experience I have fed the giraffes as well many years ago. I will wait to see what wonderful project you have decided on. Hugs, Patty
Patty Smith that's a good price. The original price on my package was $30! I look forward to sharing it all with you :) x
I just love this video. First, let me just say I have emailed two different hand dyed fabric suppliers and searched far and wide online for a fabric that looks like old parchment. I want to stitch the Desiderata poem for my husband and I specifically want it on a fabric that looks like parchment, so I was SO EXCITED to see your Old World fabric.
I also just purchased the same Needleworker kit this past weekend! Great minds. I didn't know the sweetheart tree biscornu was a kit!! You've enabled me!! I found myself on 123 stitch at 12:30 in the morning thanks to you and your video!!!
Love the video!!! Your mirabilia is amazing. PS...I LOVE GIRAFFES. I am waiting on baited breath
Latisha Beckett Thanks Latisha! I'm very happy that I helped solve a problem for you with the fabric - Colour Cascades fabrics are beautiful, and you should get a bargain with the Aussie dollar being so low at the moment.
Yay for the Needleworker kit - really looking forward to starting that one. I hope it's as quick to stitch up as it looks. I also like the other design in the series (the sampler one with the house and the alphabet) but I don't NEED that one yet LOL.
Ahhhh if only 123stitch paid commission :))))) I'm on a self imposed stash diet so I must stay away for awhile..... I made a very large purchase (which sadly, did not involve a Chatelaine), so I'm going to try and be good ;)
I look forward to sharing my Giraffe design with you all, and the photo's of our zoo experience too!
Happy stitching :) x
Amazing !! Mirabilia came out great!.
A Needlepoint In Time Thanks so much Valerie - she is more beautiful than I imagined she would be :) x
congratulations for finishing your Mirabilia ))) it's marvellous ! you worked really well on it
Yulia Bardo Thank you so much Yulia :) x
I still am amazed at how much you get done with your month! Mermaid of Atlantis is beautiful. You should be very pleased with how she came out! All of those beads really do make a difference. I will be excited to start beading my mermaid! I'm still working on the skin, though...
The little cottages are too cute! Blackwork sampler is looking very nice. And Refleggions looks so pretty! The purple is perfect for Easter.
And your thoughts on the word khaki made me laugh. I had to say it out loud both times! I love listening to you and the other Aussies to pick up the accent. The Australian one is one I haven't yet been able to get. I can do a few phrases, but it doesn't hold very well, haha. At least now I can pronounce khaki!
BlimeyCatStitches Thank you... I've amazed myself too! I've never completed this many designs in a year, and we're only a few months in!
Car-key vs Cack-ee LOL! I love hearing people attempt accents.... some people are so good at it - sadly I'm not one of them. :)
Thanks for your continued support and lovely comments, as always :)))) x
Carolyn! Mermaid! Wow. You know I blame you for making me consider a Mirabillia, I never thought I would but following this piece... Well it's your fault! Dying to bead my STS as I've never done beading before. Good on you for all those new starts! Look forward to seeing your progress as always 😊
Pyrex Stitches Haha thanks Claire, you know I'm always happy to enable others :) The beading on mermaid took longer than I thought - I imagined getting it done in one evening... definitely not the case! But it is very addictive filling in those empty spots as well as enjoyable. I got to use my new tacky bob too, which did the job perfectly and saved me from dropping thousands of beads all over the lounge room floor LOL. I have beaded once before (on my marriage sampler), but there were only a few beads, and I followed their instructions for adding them..... a half cross stitch! No wonder they don't sit nice in the frame ggrrr! If only I had UA-cam and Google back then.
Happy stitching :) x
What a wonderful video. First congrats on you FFOs and finishes. I really love the Easter design. I would be interested in seeing how you put it all together. I also liked your new starts patterns. It seems you'll be busy this month, Happy Stitching!!!
Katrina Munguia Thanks so much Katrina. Now I'm back from holiday I'll start putting together a video of the wallhanging and how I completed it. Yes, May is going to be VERY busy and quite stressful, so I hope the stitching will ease some of the burden :)Happy stitching :) x
Beautiful finishes as always!! I tried to do the one over one on At The Met and it did not go well but I will try again on Lady Alexandra which I am stitching now, she has less skin. I love the little cottage you did, it looks bigger than I thought they would, I am doing mine on one big piece of linen and just got the threads in the mail and will be starting the first three months next week. Love the Little House Needleworks patterns also, can never have enough of them! Thanks for sharing and hope all is well!
Theresa Feeney Thank you so much Theresa for your lovely comments, as always! I hope you have better luck with the skin on the next try, but if not, don't worry too much about it. Those designs are all gorgeous anyway and not too many people are going to notice how the skin is stitched. Yes the cottage is bigger than I though too. Even after seeing the size of the fabric, I envisaged it being smaller. Still very lovely and they will look amazing stitched together in one piece.... I may even attempt that myself next year, that is if something else hasn't taken my fancy! Thanks for your continued support. Happy stitching :) x
Carolyn, your stitching speed is amazing! I'm still working on a little London Double Decker Bus that I started a couple weeks ago. Clearly I don't stitch that often! Your finishes are beautiful, and I get inspiration from you! I've gone crazy on ebay recently and have so many kits/patterns I will have to live to 125 to finish them all. Thanks for a great video. Sorry to see your "stitchers wrist"....
Jeri Lane Hi Jeri, I stitch 4-5 hours each night and I've found using the two handed method to work extremely well for me - that has definitely sped the stitching up. I've banned myself from eBay for awhile.... impulse buying is not a good idea for me, when I already have a stack of things I want to stitch. The wrist is an old RSI that flares up from time to time... actually has nothing to do with stitching, surprisingly! I just wear the brace for about 3 days and I'm good as new again. It's been a year since the last flare up, so I can't really complain. Thanks for watching and happy stitching :) x
I'm gradually getting caught up on my youtube after being away for a few weeks. :) Your mermaid is lovely! I am constantly in awe of how much you get done from video to video. Must get cracking - I'm so behind on my current project. ^_^;
Your Mirabilia is beautiful!!! I always look forward to your updates. I look forward to seeing all your WIP's progress. Still no sign of the package I sent you.
TheBrneyedgirl328 Thank you! No I haven't seen it yet :( My fabric from Stephanie took a lot longer to arrive this month, so there's been a hold up somewhere. I will let you know the second it arrives :) Happy stitching :) x
Your mermaid is beautiful!!! Congrats on getting her all done! I usually find cross stitches look better from farther away but I loved yours more the closer you got to it :) I would love to do all the Mirabilia mermaids... a girl can dream haha.
Save the stitches looks great!!! Makes me want to haul mine back out and get some more stitched on it :)
Your April cottage is lovely. It is much bigger than I imagined too. And I love the card stitches!!
I also loved seeing all of your upcoming plans. I am sure they are all stitched by now since I am so behind lol. I am so excited to see your Celtic Autumn, she is beautiful!! :)
Khristine Doiron Good luck on catching up with your videos... it took me ages to catch up when I got behind recently. There's a funny update on the STS (well it's funny now!) and I've managed to finish the May and June cottages and make them into cute little cubes which I adore.
Blue Dragon is at the framers and will be ready this week.... so I'm super excited about that!
Thank you for your very kind comments - I truly appreciate them all :) xx
Carolyn Mazzeo I know! It seems I am getting further behind all the time!! There are just too many of you making videos now! :) Not that I mind or anything haha.
I can't wait to see Blue Dragon framed, that is so exciting!!! And thank you for making videos, I appreciate every one of them :):)
Khristine Doiron I think I'm behind on all the newbies, but I'll find some more soon.
Had a phone call from the framers yesterday to say my chosen frame is out of stock and won't be in until late July, early Aug :( I'm either going to have to choose something else or be very patient. I'm waiting for them to call me back to let me know if they have any similar products that I can use instead. Ugh just knew it was too good to be true. xx
Carolyn Mazzeo Oh no!! My vote is to be patient, something that beautiful deserves the perfect frame :) But I know I would have a very hard time waiting hehe :)
Khristine Doiron Patience is something I've never seemed to master - I guess this is life giving me a lesson! :) x
Hooray! Mermaid of Atlantis looks absolutely beautiful. Thanks for the close up look. :) I've seen it on Instagram and Facebook but it was nice to see it on video! You did such a good job! :)
You have a loooad of stitchy plans! I'm looking forward to seeing them all come into fruition.
Hahaha, we pronounce khaki much the same as you, I think. It's interesting to me how different some words are pronounced between countries that speak English.Like, I think Australians pronounce route the same as Americans whereas we say 'root', and that always baffles me.
I am intrigued about your secret project. :) xx
Emily Chadwick Hi again :) Thanks so much, she was so much fun to stitch. I was looking at my Mira's yesterday, trying to decide which one to start next.... and I can't! NEVER give a Libran too many choices!!!!! LOL!
Yes lot's to do but not enough time to do it all.... that would be in the stitchy bible (if we had one)!
Yes we do pronounce khaki the same, as well as many others. I think the reason we say some American pronunciations and some English has a lot to do with our parents. Both my parents are English so I naturally pronounce words the English way. With words like route, both forms are acceptable here and I say root, but I think route (American) makes more sense because of how we pronounce the ou in noun. English, they say, is the hardest language to learn.... now I know why, so many different spellings and pronunciations for the same words.... very confusing!!
I've shown my secret project on my latest video (not really a secret, just wasn't ready to show it yet LOL). I can't wait to start it and I'm eagerly counting the days :)
Take care and happy stitching :) xx
English is a weird language.
Good luck choosing your next Mira! Maybe you could show us what you've narrowed it down to and ask opinions if you're really struggling? :) xx
Emily Chadwick Maybe I will just do that... I need to narrow it down first ;) x
oh so beautiful!!!
Jen Troje Thankyou :) x
I know that every single time I see your Mermaid of Atlantis, be it here or on Instagram, I gush all over the place... But it is just so flipping gorgeous! :)
Also, the next time you worry about your dog's snoring, just remember that my cat vomited loudly in my last video.
j00licious Thank you so much! She is more beautiful than I even imagined she would be.
Haha - oh dear! Having 2 cats I can easily imagine that :(
I blame you for my wanting to do Mermaid of Atlantis. It's sooo pretty! I'm sorry you can't join us for May-nia, but I totally understand :) That fabric is GORGEOUS! (Devil W/a Blue Dress that is)
CoffeeStitcher Haha you should so do it Garrett! She was soooo much fun to stitch, and I actually miss her :( I'm so looking forward to you guys doing the May-nia and seeing how much you get done each day. Yes the fabric is gorgeous... love my bling, bling :) x
Awww, she's definitely on my wish list, but I have a LOT of other things to do in the meanwhile :)
Re: May-nia, that makes two of us :D
CoffeeStitcher Not long now.... counting the days ;)
Hi Carolyn, you are one of my very favorite video posters. My goodness, how beautiful are your works?! Your mermaid is simply breathtaking. I will likely never do anything so involved, but how wonderful that you share your talent with us. What fabric did you use for her? Was it a linen or an Evenweave? From your close ups it looked like something even I might be able to stitch on. ;) I believe I heard you offer to show how you put together your purple Easter wall hanging. I would really appreciate seeing that. I thoroughly enjoyed your cushion tutorial. Also, in your last video when you mentioned and showed the CCN Cottages of the Month, I fell in love with them! Since you've decided not to do the flat fold finishes on those, I'm anxious to hear what your new idea is for them. Thank you so much for all your wonderful videos!
Tara Ward Hi Tara, thank you so much for your lovely comment :) I stitched the Mermaid on 28ct Lugana which is an even weave and a definite favourite of mine. You could most definitely stitch on it.... the fabric is beautiful to work with. Not sure if you've seen it, but one of my previous videos gives some tips on stitching on even weave and linen. It's not as scary as it looks, just takes a little more time in counting the placement of the stitches. Before long it becomes second nature. Yes I'm happy to do the wallhanging tutorial for you, but it will have to wait until I get back from my holiday. I haven't completed counted out doing the flat fold on the cottages, but there are a few other finishing ideas I have in mind too. I'm still very undecided at the moment, and I'm not really allowing myself to think about it because there are so many things going on in my head regarding my daughter's party plans etc lol! Thanks so much for watching and happy stitching :) x
Carolyn Mazzeo Hi Carolyn. Thank you for replying. Yes, I have seen your wonderful video regarding stitching on evenweave and linen. Because of that video, I did experiment with some inexpensive 28 ct. evenweave from my Michaels. Interesting note: the measurements on that piece did not match with the label on it! It was labeled as 28 ct but seemed to be producing a larger design than I expected and it turned out to be 23 ct. Odd. Anyway, even with that issue I still very much enjoyed the experience of stitching on it. Yay! I have since ordered 3 pieces of 28 ct. Lugana from 1,2,3 Stitch and am boldly moving forward with plans for all of them. Thank you for so much encouragement with both your WIP videos and your tutorial videos. Of course, I will gladly wait for your wall-hanging tutorial. And that hanger you used with your purple piece is very nice--do you plan to use it for other hangings as well because I assume it is easy to change it out when you want to display a different piece. Could you share where you purchased that hanger? I hope all goes well with your various family happenings going on and will look forward to your next appearance on Flosstube!
Tara Ward Sorry for the late reply.... have been away on holiday :) Came back to a mountain of messages and 100s of UA-cam videos to catch up on!!
Wow I haven't experienced being supplied with the wrong count before, but I guess mistakes are always possible. Maybe someone got the 3 and the 8 mixed up.... but I've never heard of 23 count before either!
Lugana is beautiful and my favourite evenweave (although I haven't tried them all), it's just so soft to work with, unlike Aida.
I will start working on the video ASAP, so hopefully it will be done soon. I actually got the hanger from a garage sale - it had a quilted wall hanging on it too. I only wanted the hanger, but I kept the quilt panel as a reference to see how it hung on there. You're right, it is changeable. The wooden dowel can be removed from the metal bars at either end, and you just slide the material on. I haven't seen another one exactly like it, but our local craft chain (Spotlight) does sell smaller ones with different designs at the top.
I do plan on using the same hanger and interchanging it for designs of the same size. I also have a couple of smaller hangers which will hopefully get used sometime in the future too.
Hope you have a great stitchy day/night :) x
Your stitching is beautiful !! Could you please tell me where you got the conversion for the Autumn Lavender and Lace. Thank You, Michele Looking forward to your next video update.
David DuBreck Thank you so much Michele. I got the conversion from Janet Granger's blog... here's the link:
janetgranger.wordpress.com/category/embroidery/full-size-others-designs/lavender-and-lace-celtic-autumn/
She also has a few photo's of the finished piece, which is gorgeous :) x
Carolyn how I admire you and your beautiful stitching. I have always wanted to do celtic autumn in those colors but cant find a chart to help me with changes. Would appreciate if you could help me, Thank you LIz
Liz Thompson Hi Liz, I found the Celtic Autumn changes on Janet Granger's blog. Here's the link: janetgranger.wordpress.com/category/embroidery/full-size-others-designs/lavender-and-lace-celtic-autumn/It's pretty self explanatory, and there's pictures also. You can also contact her by email, which is what I did... she's a lovely lady. Thanks for watching and happy stitching :) x
Carolyn, Lovely video as always. Mirabillia is so beautiful, congrats on the finish. 121 a typing error me thinks lol!! Some of the bright yellows are in the 700's. Looking forward to seeing your Biscornu wips in the future, great bargain on DMC threads. Have you strained your wrist?
Hugs
Amanda
xxxxx
Amanda Williamson Hi Amanda, my first thought was 721 but I looked it up and it's an orange. Doesn't matter, I'm sure I'll find something in my stash to match it with. Thank you for your lovely comments :) The wrist is an old RSI that troubles me from time to time..... it's actually been a year since I had problems with it, so I can't really complain. Happy stitching :) x
WOW for you!
+rei Thank you so much - I appreciate your support :) x
Hi New Subscriber, Love Your Work TY Lynn :)
Oh, very beautiful embroidery!!! Congratulations!!!Everything is interesting,but I badly understand English:)) good Luck!
Хвостатики Thank you so much! :) x
Have you been stitching too much? I see your wrist is strapped! Love the Mermaid, she turned out just lovely.
jillipepper5353 It's just an old RSI that flares up from time to time.... nothing to worry about, but thank you for your concern :) Thanks for watching and happy stitching :) x
My goodness Carolyn what have you done to your arm? Sorry as soon as I realized it was a brace of some sort I was seeing it made me me very very curious, forgive me if I am being to nosy. I will think of you when ever I hear or say the word khaki, love your Aussie accent but the way you say it would be something we start our cars with rofl and being from New England where our particular verbal quirk is that we rarely pronounce the letter R it comes out as kaahhhkey , lol. Your Mermaid is stunning and so encouraging, my Lilac fairy is looking a bit of a mess at the moment, all those empty spots where the beads are meant to go on her skirt*sigh* I am so tempted to go ahead and start beading all ready. Fantastic fabrics, I thought of Star Gazer when I saw the first blue, no idea if the floss colors would match or clash but that sparkle was so star like and perhaps another mermaid on the clouds fabric? I think the color conversion on Celtic Autumn is perfect, way more autumnal than the lavender.
saja abdullah Hi Saja, nice to hear from you again :) No need to worry, it's an old RSI that flares up from time to time. It's actually been a year since it's given me any problems, so I can't really complain. I just wear a brace for about 3-4 days and them I'm good as new again :)
Khaki.... hahahahaha.... sorry, but it sounds so funny. I can imagine CarKey would sound hilarious to you all too :)))))))
I wanted to fill in those empty spots too, but I decided it would be my reward for when I finished stitching...... which just urged me on even more to get it done :)
I don't have the Star Gazer chart (although she is on my wish list), but I have quite a few Mira designs that actually call for that type of fabric, so I'm sure something will suit. It is very sparkly :)
Next month, Celtic Autumn is the one I'm looking forward to the most. I've been wanting to stitch her forever! I can't believe the time is nearly here :)
Thanks so much for your lovely comments, as always.... Happy stitching :) x
Hi Carolyn, great video as always. Loved your finishes. I do need to ask you a question. What type of frame do you use and how much extra fabric do you add to each piece. You are my inspiration. Happy Stitching.
MARY ELLEN JONES Awww thanks so much Mary Ellen, that means a lot to me :) I use a Millennium frame for stitching and the amount of extra fabric I allow to each piece really depends on how I plan on finishing it. On average for a design I plan to frame I add 2-3" around the whole design.... so 4-6" to the width and height. For small projects like cards, usually 1" all around is enough. Hope this has answered your question. Thanks so much for watching, and happy stitching :) x
loved your video as usual! I'm starting the "save the stitches" project soon and I use scroll frames as well. I was wondering if the beading would get damaged on the frame or are you planning to add the beading "in hand"?
Lisa Alexander Hi Lisa, that's a great question and one I didn't know the answer to either, until I did my Mermaid. I had read others' say the scroll frames can crush the beading, but I wanted to see for myself. I kept my project on the frame, but didn't do the bars up super tight..... Although the beads didn't crush, they did move a little. I've decided for my STS that I'll probably bead in hand, because the fabric is MUCH larger and there will be more potential for movement/crushing. I'm already guessing that beading in hand will be difficult because of the size of the project. I guess I'll just have to see how I go when the time comes.
Happy stitching :) x
So many great wips and finishes! I love that black lugana piece with the white, teal, and silver metallics! Did you get that one out of a book? I'd love to do something like that!
Tim Walker Thanks so much Tim. The Blackword piece you're referring to is actually a freebie!!! A heap of us on IG and UA-cam are doing a SAL called #savethestiches. Liz Almond has created this amazing piece and you choose your own fabric, thread, metallic and bead colours. So every piece is unique. Here's the link to her page:
www.blackworkjourney.co.uk/freebies1.shtml
The Intro and Blocks 1-6 start on page 2, and Blocks 7-24 are on page 1 (which I sent you). She also has loads of other freebie designs that are smaller, in case you want to try out something little before committing to the big project. Also at the top of the page that I sent you is the Box Of Delights, which some other stitchers are also doing a SAL for.... Enjoy :)
Carolyn Mazzeo Whoops, sorry I meant say "Blackwork" not Blackword!
Carolyn Mazzeo Thanks! Will definitely look into it!
Carolyn I have to ask... Because I haven't done beading before, do you bead horizontal? As in your thread goes across the middle of the square? Thank you :)
Pyrex Stitches Hi Claire, you know I'm never sure whether to call it horizontal or vertical?.... It's definitely not diagonal. I add the beads to the middle of the square with the holes of the beads laying on the left & right sides of the bead, as opposed to top and bottom. I actually used "thelovelyarray"s tutorial, which I found super easy to understand and the beads are very well secured. Here's the link: ua-cam.com/video/bzVELRtwWrIH/v-deo.htmlope this helps hun :) x
Hi Carolyn, love your work the mirabilia is gorgeous, few questions if I may, 1) how do you keep your threads so neat when cross stitching? my threads always end up twisting round each other so one thread ends up on top of the other and I'm having to take my needle off and split them apart, so time consuming. 2) how do you attach the beads on the work? and 3) would you ever sell any of your work? X
Sam Jones Hi Sam, I always happy to answer questions.
1) I find it helps to let your needle drop from your work occasionally to allow it to spin out the tangles. Also I use a laying tool (not all the time though) which helps the stitches to lay flat. You can also try railroading the stitches..... where you place the needle in-between the two strands before placing it through the hole... this helps separate the strands and lays them flat too. I find this a little more time consuming than the laying tool, but everyone has their own preferences.
2) I use invisible thread to attach the beads, and I used the method that "thelovelyarray" showed in her UA-cam video here: ua-cam.com/video/bzVELRtwWrI/v-deo.html The beads are VERY secure and I am super happy with them.
3) That's a toughie..... I've never been asked before. I wouldn't even know what to charge, and what would be fair for both parties.
Hope this helps :) x
Thanks so much for getting back to me, what's a laying tool and where would I get one? How do they work? X
Sam Jones It's a long metal spike that attaches to your finger. I found this video that will explain it better than I can in words: ua-cam.com/video/HSEVU2gWZhY/v-deo.html
I purchased mine from 123stitch.com
I realise this is a older video so i hope you receive this comment. I've only been stitching for a few years so I only tend to do kits and stitch on aida. Seeing all you're finished inspires me to try new things such as evenweave fabrics and beading. When you did a close up of you're work I was looking at you're back stitch. Do you do each stitch individually or will you let it go down two or three stitches? I hope that makes sense. Thank you in advance. I love you're videos and you're work! Keep stitching 😊
Hazel Day Hi Hazel and welcome :) In regards to the backstitch it really depends on the design I'm stitching - I have done both methods. For the mermaid I backstitched individually, except where her jawline is where there is longer backstitching due to the start and finish point of the stitch. For her skin in general, I backstitched as though I was doing the normal 'over 2' in that area, because to do it 'over 1' like the stitches, they would have looked too small and messy. So in that area they actually look longer, compared to the 'over 1' stitches, but they're not.
It's just a matter of trial and error really. For some designs I've tried doing long backstitches and it doesn't look right, so I do shorter ones - other times it's the opposite. I guess it just depends on our own interpretation of the chart and what feels right to us.
Thank you for your very kind comments :) x
Hey Carolyn! What's an FFO? I tried to google but couldn't come up with anything. Your Mirabilia is gorgeous!!! Love all your videos.
rachelallencamus FFO = Fully Finished Object. I felt the need to mention it a few videos ago when I discovered it on a sewing/stitching terms page on the internet. No-one really knew what to call the designs we have finished stitching AND finished completely into an object (i.e. framed piece, wall hanging, pillow etc). Most people were calling them a Finished Finish, which just didn't sound right. When I saw FFO, I knew I had to call it that, and some other stitchers have liked it also :) x
Where do you buy your fabrics? They are so beautiful!
Sarah Wright So sorry, I just realised I didn't put that in my video description.... will fix that! The fabrics I showed were purchased from colourcascadefabrics.com.au and they are based in Western Australia. I also get fabrics from stephsfabbys.com where I am a member of the Fabric Of The Month club.
Carolyn Mazzeo Thanks! I will have to check those places out!
What do you do with all of these projects?
I loved the close-ups of the mermaid! She is gorgeous! I'm looking forward to starting the cottages next month. I'm @stitchymom on Instagram. :) You have me very curious about your giraffe project. I adore giraffes so I am excited to see what it is!!!! Happy stitching!
Kristin Choate Hi Kristin :)) I'm looking forward to you joining me too! Hmmm I'll have to share the Giraffe experience photos when I show the new design too. Hopefully you'll enjoy it. Happy stitching to you too :) x
I love love love watching your videos!! Every time I see a new one in my subscription box, I know I'm going to have to delay any activities for a while! Thanks for the past 30 minutes of enjoyment!
Lenia Coates Awww that's so sweet..... thank you :) x