Nordic Needle News in Stitches Monday, September 15, 2008
Stash (and Sales) Newsletter #9
Disclaimer: Please remember that items mentioned in our newsletter archives may no longer be available, or their prices may have changed.

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Threads - Part 3 (Final)

Today we are going to finish up with the information on threads. Mark your calendars for September 29th. Swedish Weaving is the topic and we have a special treat for you. Sue has designed a beautiful pattern just for this issue. It will be yours free!!

Did you ever think there could be so many different types of threads and fibers? I still vividly recall my first day as a part-time clerk in the Nordic Needle store. Beth took me around pointing out this collection of threads, that rack of fibers, the bins of metallic threads, and don't forget the over-dyed skeins on the walls and racks. I am still not sure how I made it through that first day! We're hoping we haven't gotten you as confused as I was and you are ready to wrap up the threads information. There is a lot to go through, so hold on to your work basket while we look at animal fibers and man-made fibers....

Wool Threads

Wool is the fiber derived from the specialized skin cells, called follicles, of animals in the Caprinae family, principally sheep, but the hair of certain species of other mammals such as goats, llamas and rabbits may also be called wool. Wool has several qualities that distinguish it from hair or fur: it is crimped, it has a different texture, it is elastic and grows in staples (clusters) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wool). Virgin wool means wool not processed or woven before (http://www.thefreedictionary.com/virgin+wool).

From DMC:

From the Rainbow Collection:

  • Rainbow Tweed - 44% cotton, 39% wool, 17% acrylic with 10 yards (9.1 meters) on a card. Because of the different thread types, it absorbs dye unevenly, which adds to its rustic look. It is great for stitching large areas such as sky, water, mountains, and greenery. It is a 4-plky divisible thread that can be used on any count. It comes in solid and over-dyed colors which blend well with Overture, Encore! And Bravo! Colors. For needlepoint use, 4 strands for 13-16 cou7nt,m 2 stands on 18 count canvas. For cross stitch use 1 strand on 18 count, 2 strands on 11-14 count.) Made in USA.
    This fun pattern uses Rainbow Tweed:
  • Designer's Dream - 100% Wool with 30 yards on a card. This is a very strong thread and can be used with other threads to give strength. 1 strand on Congress cloth, 2 strands on 18 count, 4 strands on 13-14 count. Made in Italy.

From the Caron Collection:

Other Animal Fibers

From the Rainbow Gallery:

  • Alpaca 18 - 100% Fine Alpaca with 12 yards per card. The Alpaca is a domesticated species of South American camelid. It resembles a small llama in appearance. This strong thread will not fray easily. You may brush it with a Bunka Brush (6749) to fluff it up for maximum effect. Use 1 strand on 14-18 count canvas or 11 count aida. Made in Peru. To learn about alpacas check out http://www.mountairyalpacas.com/index.html.
  • Angora - Angora wool or Angora fiber refers to the downy coat produced by the Angora rabbit. While their names are similar, Angora fiber is distinct from mohair, which comes from the Angora goat. Angora is known for its softness, low micron count 100% Angora with 7 yards (6.4 meters) on a card. This fiber is very "furry". Don't use a length longer than 20". It will wear so come straight up and down when stitching. You can brush this thread carefully to help with the furry effect. Long stitches will give you more of a furry effect. Use one thread for 13-16 count canvas and 7 count cross stitch. Made in France.
  • Cashmere Rainbow - 100% Cashmere, which is a fiber from a cashmere goat. 9 yards (8.2 meters) per card. Use one thread 14-18 count canvas or 7-14 count fabric. Made in France.
  • Wisper - 70% Kid Mohair, 30% Nylon, with 20 yards per card. Mohair is made from the hair of the Angora goat. This is a very fine fuzzy thread. It is necessary to add threads to get a thickness to cover your canvas or fabric. You can double this thread over your needle. It can be brushed to bring out the fullness. Try combining it with other threads such as Designer's Dream to give it strength and depth. Use 4 strands on 13-14 cont canvas, 2 strands on 18 count and 1 strand on 22 count fabric. Made in Italy.

We asked some of the folks here at Nordic Needle to share their favorite Specialty Fibers with us...

Roz sometimes has help with her Hardanger.

Harley likes to drape himself over her arm as she stitches, so you know she gets to spend a few minutes picking out Harley's "specialty fibers" from her stitching when she is done. Here is Roz and Harley relaxing after an afternoon of stitching.

Debi has a houseful of specialty fibers. Doesn't matter whether she's working on light or dark fabric something is going to get caught up in the stitching. Skipper is a yellow Labrador and is the primary culprit. However, there are three dark-colored, long-haired cats (Willie, Gabby, and Sarge) get their fair share of hair tangled into the threads.

Mary Ann (in Customer Service) has really gotten into 4-legged Specialty Fibers. She has been the grandmother to her two son's dogs, with the dogs sometimes staying with her. T.J. was a pound puppy with a silky fur. Maggie was a Rottweiler-Springer Spaniel mix. About 5 years ago Mary Ann started saving the fur when she combed them. This year the fur has been carded. Her niece is going to spin it, combining it with silk threads to give it strength and length. Mary Ann plans to make something for her sons, being extra special since both dogs have since passed away. We will keep you updated on the project. Here are T.J. and Maggie enjoying the afternoon in Grandma's yard.

Janine works in the store and she has a 4-month-old puppy named Gus. Gus is very active and they have resorted to riding their bicycles to “walk" Gus!. By the size of his paws I think they will have a large fiber donor on their hands. Isn't he adorable?

Metallic / Synthetic / Rayon Threads

From the Rainbow Gallery: (Rainbow Gallery has a large selection of specialty fibers. We do not carry all of the lines. Due to space limitations, I will go through some of the most popular fibers. For more information, please check out Jay's stitching tips http://www.rainbowgallery.com/stitchinghints.html and Jay's Tips on each of the fiber lines which will tell you fiber content http://www.rainbowgallery.com/jaystips.htm.)

  • Arctic Rays - Made in Italy. Best defined as wispy fringe, it has transparent fibers to give it a glistening effect. Use a larger needle and best used with long stitches. Try this thread for French knots! Use one strand on 14-18 count for long stitches.
    This holiday pattern uses Arctic Rays:
  • Cresta d'Oro -15 yards (13.7 meters) per card. Thread with a needle threader. It is a chainettes and will unravel. Use one stand on 18 count canvas, 2 strands on 12-14 count fabric. Made in England.
  • Crystal Braid - 10 yards per card. This thread has a shimmer to it. It is a very sturdy 12-strand and will not unravel or fray easily. You can use it anywhere you would use a #12 braid, such as 18 count canvas or a 11-14 count fabric. Made in Japan.
    These two canvaswork patterns use Crystal Braid:
  • Fiesta! - 6-ply strandable floss with 12 yards on a card. This thread does not need to be "popped." The plies should be separated and put back together for the maximum shine. Maintain good tension when stitching and a laying tool might be helpful. It has no grain so you can double it over your needle. You can wet the thread after putting the plies back together, let it dry. Use 6 strands on 13-14 count canvas, 5 strands on 16 count, 4 strands on 18 count, and 1 strand on Congress Cloth. Made in Mexico.
  • Flair - 10 yards per card. It has a subtle shine and the canvas color can be seen underneath. This is a tubular netting that will unravel. You will need a laying tool to stitch it flat, you do not want it to twist. You can insert other threads inside Flair to change the appearance. Use on 14-18 count canvas, long stitches on 16-24 count, or have crosses for cross stitch. Made in England.
    Check out this lovely pattern that uses flair:
  • Frosty Rays - 5 yards per card. This thread has Tiara in the center of it. For a different effect bring the thread up through the canvas, remove the needle, then slide the Frosty Rays down the Tiara to form a clump, rethread your needle and go back through the canvas, couch the bunched up Frosty Rays. Use on 12 to 18 count canvas or cross stitch with 1/2 crosses. Made in USA.
    See this pattern that uses Frosty Rays:
  • Fuzzy Stuff - 15 yards per card. Use short lengths and stitch straight up and down. Don't brush this thread. White Fuzzy Stuff is great for snow features. Use 2 ply for 14 count canvas, one ply for 18 count canvas or 9 to 10 count cross stitch.
    Gorgeous pattern using Fuzzy Stuff:
  • Fyre Werks - has three styles:
    • Metallic Ribbon - 10 yards per card. It will fray at the ends. Do not use long pieces to stitch and be careful to lay the ribbon flat. Use one strand 13-18 count canvas, 11-22 count fabric. Made in England.
    • Hologram Ribbon - 10 yards per card. This ribbon really has a shine and dimension to it. It is a hologram that has been cut into thin strips and then braided. It is a little heavier than the other Fyre Werks and will stitch tighter on canvas. Use one strand on 12-14 count canvas or 7-11 count fabric. Made in the USA.
    • Soft Sheen - 10 yards per card. This has less shine, but more metallic. Use one strand 13-18 count canvas, 11-22 count fabric. Made in Japan.
  • Gold Rush - has four styles (Nordic Needle does not carry Gold Rush 12). These are chainettes and will unravel. Use a larger needle and come straight up and down through the fabric. You may wish to use Fray Check (6622) on your ends. Made in England.

    • In the Caron Collection: We carry two of the Caron Collection synthetic threads.

    In the DMC collection:

    In the EdMar Collection: EdMar produces a full line of Rayon threads that are used primarily in Brazilian and Stumpwork embroidery. There are seven weights available: Nova, Boucle, Lola, Cire, Frost, Iris, and Glory. To find out more about using these threads, refer to the Brazilian newsletter dated July 7, 2008. Learn more about EdMar at http://www.edmar-co.com/.

    In the Kreinik collection: Kreinik manufactures several metallic threads in a variety of weights.

    Check out Kreinik's website for free patterns and tips on using their threads. Kreinik also has a wonderful line of threads for machine embroidery! http://www.kreinik.com/

    Tips Section

    Can you give us some tips on using the furry and fuzzy type of yarns? I never can get mine to fluff up. You need to stitch straight up and down to keep the threads from wearing. Keep your thread length short, less than 18 inches. If possible, use long stitches in the area rather than single stitches. This will allow more of the fuzzy ends to be exposed. You may need to use more than one ply. Stitch the areas with the fuzzy/furry thread FIRST. Use your Bunka brush to fluff that area out. Then finish stitching the area around the fuzzy thread. It is very hard to fluff just the fuzzy area if the entire area has been stitched. Trim and shape the fuzzy area when you are completely done stitching.

    Orts

    Thanks to everyone who wrote us about Orts. We have included some of your suggestions in this issue. More suggestions and comments will appear in future newsletters. Here are some things to do with your Orts:

    1. Fill a container: Mary T, Ames, IA keeps a beautiful ceramic container by her stitching chair. Judy H. in NY, has a tiny lidded basket her sister decorated for her to use to collect her orts. She says "It's fun to see how many floss bits the little basket holds - representing all the hours I enjoyed stitching!"

    2. Keep them for small projects: Monica C. has a small divided plastic tray with lid where she keeps her longer orts. She wraps the ort around her finer to make it a circle. The tray is divided by colors so it's easy to find just the right color.

    3. Some folks have Special boxes: Pam from Cape Town, South Africa writes "I am attaching some photographs of the ORTS box that the chairman (Tricia Elvin-Jensen) of our Guild, The Cape Embroiderers' Guild, taught to us some time ago. The one is using pulled thread work and the other she made was heavily beaded with a surprise in the bottom when you opened it. Really beautiful."

    4. Christmas ornaments: Pat C. from Springfield, VA, takes the metallic threads and cuts them into very small pieces (with scissors meant for metallic thread!!!) and sprinkles them throughout the glass balls to give a little sparkle. Glenda D. from Calgary, AB, puts the date on her glass balls so she can look back and have a reminder of the projects she has done over the years.

    5. Stuffing: Keep your orts separated by color and use them to stuff projects like pin cushions, fobs, etc.

    6. Birds/nest building: Boy, did this open up a can of worms.....We got many emails about the pros and cons of putting threads out for the birds. Roz and Sue also addressed this in 2004. So, what is the answer? All About Birds hosted by Cornell University said you could put out string or yarn and I wanted to know if our orts qualified. I got a very nice response that we should NOT leave our orts out for the birds. There was a concern about the chemicals and dyes, and also young birds might get tangled up. One reader, Donna G. had a great suggestion "You can get balls of suitable material from wild bird supply stores." Another reader recommended saving the fur from your 4-legged specialty fibers, which is also recommended on the All About Birds site. Cornell University has agreed to change their site to clarify what type(s) string/yarn can be used. Click here to visit Cornell University's website: All About Birds.

    7. Here is one last thought about what ORTS stands for. Karen O from MN wrote that she remembered a conversation with a friend Orv some 45 years ago. His mother was a child of the Depression and when Orv cleaned out her belongings he found a box that had printed on the top.....string too short to use. Inside he found a ball made up of tiny pieces of thread, each one carefully knotted and neatly in place which made a very colorful ball. To Karen, Orts will always stand for "Orv, Recycle This Stuff."

Recipe

Great news! The monthly pot luck lunches begin again next week! That means Roz, Ryan, and I will have new, taste tested, recipes to share with you. Until then, here is a recipe my Grandma Veva used to make for the holidays. My mom took the recipe and converted it to a really large batch and we would ice and decorate cookies for days!! The recipe is even more special to me now as both of them have passed away. For whatever reason, my Grandma called these "Life Like Cookies". They are a great sugar cookie. Hope you enjoy!

Life Like Cookies

    (The original batch size)
  • 1/2 c shortening
  • 1/2 c sugar
  • 1/2 tsp soda dissolved in T milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 2 c flour

Mix in the order given, adding flour slowly. Chill for at least 3 hours. Roll out a little thicker than usual. (I roll mine out about a 1/4".) Use cookie cutters to create the designs. She didn't give baking instructions, but I use a 375 degree pre-heated oven. Place the cookies on an ungreased cookie sheet. Ovens vary and times will too with the size of your cookies, so watch the first batch closely. The cookies will be a light brown, usually around 8 minutes. Cool and decorate.

Celebrating Grandparents

Sunday, September 7, was Grandparents' Day here in the United States. In fact, this was the 30th year for the official celebration of Grandparents' Day. The impetus for a National Grandparents Day originated with Marian McQuade (now age 91), a housewife and mother of 15 children, living in Fayette County, West Virginia. Her primary motivation was to champion the cause of lonely elderly in nursing homes. She also hoped to persuade grandchildren to tap the wisdom and heritage their grandparents could provide. President Jimmy Carter, in 1978, proclaimed that National Grandparents Day would be celebrated every year on the first Sunday after Labor Day. http://www.grandparents-day.com/

This year I got to thinking about Grandparents. My husband's grandparents are still active and in their 90's. I am a grandparent also and still active (except the next day after aerobics class!) Many older citizens want to be active in their communities. On the other hand, I know many grandparents who need varying levels of assistance. Perhaps their children don't live in the same town and the parent needs some assistance running errands or having someone to talk with. There are many local, regional and national programs that can assist in both of these situations. Communities are looking for senior volunteers to work with youth, adults, community projects and outreach opportunities. Other programs match youth and adults to seniors who are homebound or in nursing homes. Here are just a few great examples of organizations doing this type of outreach:

Happy Belated Grandparents Day to all of you grandmas and grandpas out there. Thanks to each and everyone who volunteers, even in a small way, to making a difference in your communities.

On to the Sales!

Hardanger CurveAre you ready for some fantastic buys? Hopefully we have found something for everyone. If Hardanger Embroidery is your forte, check out these wonderful offers.

Here is a wonderful pattern for the experienced Hardanger embroiderer. This is worked on 22 count white Hardanger fabric (1008-001) with the finished design size 15.5" x 15.5".

  • Here is a pretty runner created by Satin Stitches. It is stitched on 22 count antique white fine Ariosa (3409-101) and measures 12" x 28.5". This chartpak includes the chart, instructions and close-up photos.
    Medallion Runner - 0762
    While supplies last! Save 50%. This was priced at $6.99 now only $3.49.
  • Donna has created this free style design using Hardanger embroidery techniques. This pattern allows you to explore your creativity. In addition to the large design shown, there are six smaller patterns adapted from the large design. That makes each pattern just over $1 each!
    Twilight Garden - 0727
  • Yes, there really is something called a Hardanger fiddle. Designer Carol Pederson has created this design because of something her father said. This was designed as a wall hanging, but could also be made into a pillow. Where else can you get a fiddle for the incredible price of $3.99?
    Hardanger Fiddle - 0622
    This is a 50% savings over the regular retail price of $7.99.

Ultimate Book of Tatted DoiliesAs we get closer to the season of flying snow, I think about crocheted and tatted snowflakes. If you have never tatted, here is a perfect chance to get a book and shuttle. For you experienced tatters, we are offering a couple of beautiful custom-made shuttles.

This is a super resource book with 17 lacy needle tatting doily designs using various sizes of thread.

Needle Felted FashionsI always think of wool when the weather starts turning cooler. Here are some great selections for the Needle Felting Folks.

This collection of 10 designs offers unlimited creative applications for fiber, yarn and wool appliqués. This is a great chance to create wearable art.

  • Here is another great resource. This book is a comprehensive needle felting guide that explains tools, methods and shares tips and techniques to make 22 projects including jackets, scarves, and jewelry.
    Two Times Two Tote - 1698
    Retail price was $8.99, now only $4.49 (save 50%)
  • 25 contemporary felted projects with designer flair Christmas ornaments. This book was $24.95, reduced 50% to an incredible $12.48. Don't pass up this awesome opportunity!
    Designer Needle Felting - 1701
  • Check out this beginner kit for Needle Felting Kit. Kit comes with project instructions, a pack of three Blue Point felting needles, 9" x 12" felt backing fabric, a reusable 6" x 6" foam pad, and enough dyed wool to complete a first project. Order yours today and learn one of the coolest techniques around!
    Needle Felting Starter Kit - K1251
    Originally priced at $16.99, now only $10.19, a 40% savings!

Sunflowers and LupinesGet your bullion needles ready for these Brazilian embroidery designs.

This pattern teaches bullion, colonial knot, detached chain stitch, leaf, satin and stem stitch. Design is 2.6" x 3.75" and is an advanced beginner to intermediate skill level design.

  • It won't be long before we won't have fresh flowers from our yards. Stitch this lovely piece and you will have a basket of beautiful flowers year round.
    Just Picked - 1761D
    This chartpak was $13.99, now only $8.39, a 40% savings.
  • This is a great beginner level piece.
    Anne's Heart - 1746F
    Reduced 40% from $7.99 to $4.79.

Mardi GrasIn this section, we're starting out with a Laura J. Perin design called Mardi Gras. You will enjoy stitching this colorful piece! We're dropping the price 50%, so don't delay in ordering your copy today.

The next three Canvaswork patterns remind us that if fall has arrived, winter will be here soon.
  • Here are three Christmas ornaments in Canvaswork, Miss January, Miss February and Miss March. January is cold and clear with deep blue skies, the ice and snow sparkling in the sunlight. February is the month of love, using deep reds accented with white and gold for romance. March uses the blue skies and green of St. Patrick's Day plus gold for pots of gold. You stitch three identical squares of one design and then attach them together for a three-sided ornament.
    Christmas Ornaments I - 1039A
    Regular price was $12.99, now only $7.79 (Save 40%)
  • Designer Debbie Rowley says, "I picked some of my favorite stitches and techniques for Canvaswork and translated them to linen." Extremely large, clear charts and stitch diagrams are included. The design includes Hardanger with filling stitches along with Canvaswork.
    Winter Fantasy - 1413
    This pattern was originally priced at $19.99, now only $11.99 (40% savings).
  • This design lets you try a variety of fibers including Caron Watercolours and Impressions, Kreinik #8 and #12 braid, Rainbow Gallery Frosty Rays and Splendor, DMC floss, and Mill Hill beads. Excellent charts, stitch diagrams and instructions.
    Winter Wonderland - 1426
    Retail price was $11.99, now only $7.19, a 40% savings.

This Heart of MineCheck out the crazy savings for these cross-stitch creations.

This design combines cross-stitch with Blackwork to heart a heart design 6.75" x 7.25".

  • Who can resist these five adorable snowman designs in holiday colors.
    Fun Loving Fellows - 4534A
    Save 60%, was $5.99, now only $2.39.
  • Stitch this rather whimsical horse amidst lovely flowers.
    Sarah (horse with flowers) - 3691D
    Today only $6.29, a 40% savings from the regular retail price of $10.50
  • Here is another wonderful Heaven and Earth Designs. Stitch this delightful design from a gentler time.
    Forever Friends - 4289
    Regular price was $14.99, now 50% off at $7.49.

The Art and Craft of GoldworkI don't know about you, but I love to collect instruction books. Here are five that would be a great addition to any library.

This 54 page book is filled with wonderful Goldwork projects.

  • 249 pages of instructions and projects for needlepoint, embroidery, quilting, and so much more. Create beautiful handmade items, with more than 1000 photographs.
    The Illustrated Book of Needlecrafts - 1965
    Save 50%, regular price was $19.95, now only $9.98.
Save 40% on any of these three books! Retail price was $14.95, now each book is only $8.97!

Remember, September 29th we will talk about Swedish Weaving. In October, we will tackle Fabrics and Samplers. Please send us your questions, comments, and stories about these three topics. We always enjoy hearing from you.

Until next time,


Debi & Ryan

For those interested in using this article or others published by Nordic Needle, Inc., please use this copy when referencing the information:
"The following article was written by Debi Feyh and Ryan Evelyth of Nordic Needle and published in their weekly e-mail newsletter. Permission was granted by Nordic Needle to share this article in (name of your publication). For information on subscribing to their weekly e-mail newsletter, visit www.nordicneedle.com. A free mail-order catalog is available to you upon request if you live in the USA or Canada."

NordicNeedle.com
1-800-433-4321

Have a great week and let us know if we can help with your stitching needs!