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Going for the Blue Ribbon |
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| Date/Time: | 04/14/2002 1:30 - 4:00 | | Type: | General Meeting | | Location: | Glen Ellyn Library | | Teacher: | Eileen Bennett |
In needlework competition, even minor flaws make a difference between a first place
ribbon or no ribbon. Correct thread manipulation can eliminate the common problems
of twisted threads, split stitches, crowded stitches, uneven tension, shadowed threads,
obvious starting and stopping points in a thread and "fuzzy" cross stitches.
Needleworker and judge, Eileen Bennett, will discuss problem areas such as how to
handle isolated or single stitches, working over one thread of linen, using hoops
or frames, thread ply and correct needle size. Additional information covering framing
hints, conservation tips and fabric hygiene are additional points in the 'pursuit
of excellence!
This is a 'hands on' as well as a discussion class to eliminate improper working habits
and an opportunity to explore your needlework through a judge's eye. Many stitching
tips and techniques for winning 'blue ribbons' will be shared and students will have
one piece of needlework critiqued.
Attendees are encouraged to bring some scrap linen, DMC (any will do) and a scissor
to practice some of the prize winning tips she will impart to us. There will
be numerous handouts available to all who attend. This will be a great program
- not to be missed!
Highlights
The program at our April meeting was "Going for the Blue Ribbon," with stitching tips
by Eileen Bennett. We also heard some wonderful reports about Sampler Gathering, which
made those left behind feel as if we had been there (almost.) Thanks, Leslie, Judy
and the rest. Eileen told about Rockome and the judging there and some of the things
she looks for when she peers through her double set of glasses and magnifiers at the
submitted pieces. We felt good about the things we already do right and made notes
about the things we can change. Here are some excerpts:
Fuzzy thread is a no-no. If your thread becomes fuzzy, cut it off and start with a
new strand. Use an away-waste knot when beginning a color so that you can later plan
where to tuck it into the back. When you run out of thread in the middle of a row,
do not weave the old end into the part you have just stitched. This leaves an enlarged
hole in the linen where you quit. Instead, pull the loose end in the direction you
are headed and cover it up with the new stitches. If you are doing something that
has a few dots of contrasting color, such as a polka dot dress or even a striped skirt,
do not do all the background color then go back and fill in the dots with the new
color. They will never lay right. Instead, stitch the new color dots as you come to
them, and park that needle and thread out of the way until you come to the next dot.
And above all, have a clean and ironed finished project. She recommends washing all
needlework when complete. If overdyed threads make this impossible, wash the linen
before you begin. Stoney Creek sells a product called Cotton Wash that works wonderfully
on all types of fabric. Ivory and Dreft are also good products.
For those who are uptight about their stitching and must follow arbitrary rules, Eileen
has a recipe for a drink which will loosen them up. It's called a Shooter, and contains
prune juice and vodka. Her lecture was fun.
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Remember to bring your needlework projects to the next meeting so you can show
others what you've accomplished!
Don't miss the May meeting at the Barrington Library!
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