Completed Cross Stitch - Barbara Campagna for Stitch Notions "Lollipop Flowers"

Shape.  Biomorphic shapes represent biological or organic things.  I really like these Lollipop Flowers because of the exaggerated circles which still look natural on top of the soft-edged rectangle backdrop.  They kind of look like fried egg flowers or futuristic mums.

Although the pattern calls for DMC threads, instead of following the colours exactly, what I did was find what threads I have on hand that is close to the model and experiment.  So far so good.  I used 2 threads over 4 squares and a variety of solids and overdyed ‘The Gentle Art’, ‘Weeks Dye Works’, and 'Crescent Colours' and I think it is working out well.  It looks like a have a new and different picture which is a bit refreshing because I am not sure exactly how it will end up.  A bit of a surprise I guess.  Kind of cool!

Although it is hard to see, I dyed the brown fabric with a slightly darker brown to see what kind of effect of one colour on top of another.  It is almost too subtle.  In fact, if I did not tell you about the dye, you probably may or may not have noticed.  However, despite the failed dye experience, the upside is that if you never experiment you will never learn what works and what does not work (generally and catering to your own personal tastes). 

Now, having said earlier about not following the pattern, I have nothing against stitching the pattern exactly as suggested especially if you have a kit because it would defeat the purpose of buying a kit.  However, if you have your own fabric (no matter what colour), separate floss (no matter what kind/colour), and some intrigue and imagination you can create your own picture that is unique and wholly individual that is not only a one-of-a-kind but a treasured piece from the didactic experience (didactic = intending to teach).

Completed Cross Stitch - Crafty Like A Fox's "Spooky Friends/Fran and Frankie"

Hello fellow stitchy enthusiasts!  It has been some time hasn't it?  How are you?  Me?  Not bad thank you.  There have been a few changes and sometimes the more things change the more they stay the same.  I can tell you that I think this is truly, well.....true.

Full-circle change back to sameness can be good or bad.  Sorry if I seem a bit cryptic.  I really do not mean to be because as I am writing this I am thinking about my recent sacrifices seeking change and found a lot of no change at the end of it.  Wow.  I feel satisfied yet at the same time am experiencing a little of 'now what-i-ness?' type-thinking going on.  Have you ever felt the same or similar?

You may be asking so what does what I just mentioned have anything to do with my cross stitch?  Well, let me tell ya!  :)

One thing I really like about this picture is not only the design but the concept behind Frankenstein and his bride.  Both had experienced something that transformed them from something inanimate to animated.  In their case, it is electricity.  So I am thinking, well, what kind of jolt is needed in my life to reinvigorate and re-animate my life?  See where I'm going with this?

With M. Ali's recent passing, one of his quotes really stood out to me where he said "He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life."  Where does courage come from though?  Do you get this kind of strength from other people?  From yourself?  Is courage about being different or trying different things?  Jeez, I really do not know.  Do you?

This cross stitch fabric was dyed by me using Dylon dye on about 18-ct. Aida cloth, stitched 3 over 1, and specialty threads used:  DMC Precious metal effects E317, DMC Antique effects 415, DMC S414, DMC S762, and Kreinik fine braid #8 101.