College Prep

Good evening, dear readers!

We have had a very busy day at the college campus getting Jocelin all set up for attending in the Fall.  It is amazing that our little girl will be away at college in just a few short months!  There is so much that you have to take care of MONTHS in advance.  I feel like my head is still spinning.

I have done a bit of work in the Atelier, but have not had any nice days for taking images of the completed pieces.  It has been rainy and nasty down here in Louisiana.  Let's hope the weather will co-operate this coming week. 

What are y'all working on, dear readers?  Any New Year tatting projects on your needles or shuttles?  My current WIP is a personal piece that I hope to finish this weekend as I plan to share it next Friday.  It involves cultured pearls, Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk and lots of frilly tatting.

Well, I had better post this and get back to tatting before bedtime.  May you all have a wonderful week.  Until next Friday~

Happy Tatting!

Piney Woods 2013 Wreath Pendant FREE Pattern

Blog theme for November~
"Transitions"

Good morning, dear readers!  Hope everyone had a happy Thanksgiving.  Ours was blessed and full of good food and cheer.  Many folks are out hitting the "black Friday" sales, but I avoid them like the plague.  We are decorating for Christmas today.  Jim is putting the lights up on the exterior of the house and I am going through our ornaments and decorations.  There are lots of tatted tree ornaments that need to be blocked and freshened up a bit.

 

Well, I have a bit of Holiday cheer for you, dear readers- a FREE pattern!  Here is the Piney Woods 2013 Wreath Pendant Pattern:

 

 

It was tatted with a size 8 tatting needle using 3 different colors of Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk (S9, S39, S775) and an assortment of green silver lined Delica seed beads and cranberry Czech seed beads.  The following image is the foundation:

 

 

Using Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk in S9, string 60 seed beads onto needle in the order of green, red, green; then tat a foundation medallion of 10 Rs and CHs with the following counts:

R 5 - 5 - (with 3 seed beads) 5 - 5 CL RW 

CH 5 followed by 3 very small picots 3 - (with 3 seed beads) 3 followed by 3 very small picots 5 CL RW

After tatting final CH, join to motif body, tie & cut, hide ends.

 

Then next step will involve weaving chains using the groupings of 3 very small picots on each side of the beads on the CHs.

 

 

For the fluffy picot CHs on the left of the bead groupings, use the following counts:

Begin by running needle through the very first sm picot, pick up 1 green seed bead, then CH 3 followed by 11 medium picots 3 CL, + to the very first picot on the next CH previously tatted.  Continue around motif, join the last CH to the base of the first, tie & cut, hide ends.  Repeat these counts for the next two CH rounds on the left of the beads.  I used S39 for the first and third CHs and S9 for the second of this round.  As you tat the second and third CHs, weave them as you go.

 

For the CHs on the right side of the beads, I used zigzag tatting by using the first half of the ds for 10 counts, followed by the second half for the next 10 counts, alternating for a total count of 60, CL, then + to the corresponding picot on the next CH.  Continue around motif, join last CH to base of first, tie & cut, hide ends.   For the second and third CHs, weave as you go.  Don't forget to pick up 1 green seed bead with the needle after you join to the very small picots and before tatting the counts.  Again, I used S39 for the first and third CHs and S9 for the second of this grouping.

 

The last step is to go back to the center of the motif, using S775 (Turkey Red) string 30 seed beads onto the thread in the order of green, red, green.  Run needle through and picot joining the Rs, pick up 1 green seed bead and CH 6 - (with 3 seed beads) 6 CL + to next R.  Continue around motif, tie & cut, hide ends.  Now you have a nice pendant or ornament.  Hope you will enjoy the pattern! 

 

What Christmas tatting projects are you working on?  I am making a special heirloom piece for our daughter which I cannot describe in too much detail as she is online often and helps with the website and such.  Don't want her to know exactly what I'm doing! 

 

Well, I had better go- Rosie Fey is ready for her morning run.  She and Jim are waiting for me.  May you have a wonderful week full of tatting adventures.  Until next Friday~

Happy Tatting!

 

 

 

 

 

 



Turquoise and Pearl OOAK Piece

Blog theme for November~
"Transitions"

Good morning, dear readers!

It is still rainy here in the Piney Woods.  We enjoy a pretty Autumn day or two, then we're back to rainy, grey days.  That's okay because I get more tatting time in the Shanty or Atelier with Rosie Fey at my feet and a mug of hot cocoa or tea on the side table when the weather is disagreeable.

 

Here is an image of a OOAK piece I tatted last weekend featuring original needle tatting done with Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk in S49 and size 8 Valdani Pearl Cotton in M49. The eternity circle foundation is comprised of turquoise beads and cultured pearls.

 

 

There are also antique sandy beige Czech seed bead accents on some of the tatting.  I beaded a necklace with various and sundry beads that were in my stash.

 

Well, I have some great news- Jocelin received a VERY high score on her ACT & is eligible for several scholarships at her chosen college.  We are so proud and thankful!

 

Are you working on Christmas projects yet, dear readers?  I am in the process of designing the next FREE pattern for your pleasure and hope you may find it useful for the holiday season.  Let's hope I have time to finish it this weekend so I can proof it during the coming week.  Thanksgiving is less than a week away and I have oodles of cooking to do!  Then, on the day after Thanksgiving, we put up the exterior Christmas decorations while everyone else is at the stores for "Black Friday" shopping. 

 

Rosie Fey is ready for her run in the woods and I need to take more Godiva cocoa to the Shanty.  May you all have a wonderful week and blessed Thanksgiving!  Until next Friday~

Happy Tatting!

 

 

 

More Playing with Valdani

Blog theme for November~
"Transitions"

Good morning, dear readers!

I have been busy in the Atelier making new OOAK pieces for the Atelier shoppe.  They will debut AFTER the new year.  We simply have too much going on with homeschool and family activities for me to be able to get the new lines ready for the holiday season.  Here is a little peek at the progress of a piece I've been playing with featuring Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk and Pearl Cotton with a Swarovski crystal chaton and champagne pearls:

 

 

Additional rounds have already been added, but it is hard to take images when my favorite places to lay work are wet with rain.  It has been very wet down here and I am ready for a dry spell! 

 

Jocelin and I are having a Mama/Daughter day today.  I plan to relax and take a break from the Atelier and tatting shanty.  Rosie Fey will be accompanying us as we shop for a doggy sweater/coat for her.  After we get Rosie Fey taken care of, we are headed to our favorite local Mexican restaurant for lunch, then the antique stores better be ready!  Jocie and I are on the hunt for vintage goodies!!! 

 

Well, I had better get some tatting done before we head out for the day.  May you have a marvelous week ahead.  Until next Friday~

Happy Tatting!

 

 



A Wonderful Weekend

Blog theme for October~
"One Of A Kind"

Good morning, dear readers!

 

I had an absolutely wonderful weekend!  The tatting mojo was flowing and I got quite a bit of work done on many OOAK projects.  I guess we have my super-hubby, Jim, to thank for it.  He kept me happy with campfires, walks in the Piney Woods and fantastic grilled foods. 

 

Here are a few things I tatted on Sunday:

 

 

As you can see, two are antique cameos that are in the beginning stages of being "dressed".  Any names you'd care to suggest for the newest ladies, dear readers?  And the other is a design prototype I'm playing with using a Swarovski chaton, champagne pearls, Delica seed beads, and Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk and size 12 Valdani Pearl Cotton.

 

 

This is what it looked like when I placed it aside last night.  There is much more tatting to do on this one!  I will most likely add lots of beads and am contemplating some Swarovski bicone additions.  What do you think?

 

Today I plan to finish the "Haunting Elegance" piece and dress the cameo ladies.  What are your tatting plans?

 

Well, Rosie Fey is ready for our morning run.  Have a fantastic day and be sure to check out the blog on Halloween for a special "treat"!  Until then~

Happy Tatting!

 

 

 

 



Working On A Goody

Blog theme for October~
"One Of A Kind"

Good morning, dear readers!

Here is a little sneak peek at "Haunting Elegance"!

 

 

I have done quite a bit more to the piece, but this was the best early image I had of it.  There will be a lovely Swarovski chaton added along with more tatting and Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk.  The foundation was tatted with size 12 Valdani Pearl Cotton in 0 538 "Cottage Smoke".  Be sure to check out the blog on Halloween for the debut of the finished piece and a "surprise"!

 

We are finally enjoying very comfortable weather down here- and it has been very conducive to tatting and designing.  I had planned to post more OOAK pieces on the website and blog, but have had several custom pieces that have taken up MUCH more time than I had anticipated, so I will have to alter my schedule. 

 

The Piney Woods Atelier website is going to receive a facelift soon and I am contemplating waiting until after the new year before I debut new work.  With the holidays fast approaching, I have custom orders to complete along with family obligations, homeschooling, and lots of other things that demand my time and energy.  I will still blog once per week, but do not see how my schedule can accommodate everything I'd like to do.  BUT, I do have some wonderful new OOAK pieces that are coming along nicely, albeit slowly.

 

Well, dear readers, I am off to go on a run in the woods with Rosie Fey.  She has already brought me her leash and is patiently waiting at my feet as I type.  May you all have a marvelous weekend full of tatting goodness!  Until Halloween~

Happy Tatting!

 

 

 

 

 

 



My Personal Pendant

Blog theme for October~
"One Of A Kind"

Good morning, dear readers!

I have been busy working on a number of different OOAK pieces, but decided to share one I recently did for myself:

 

 

It is embellished with Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk in S 565, size 8 Valdani Pearl Cotton in O 538, several 4mm Swarovski bronze bicone crystal beads, and a bezel of champagne freshwater pearls.  I probably will add more silk tatting and Swarovskis, but plan to wear it around for a bit as is.

 

The pendant was purchased from Jenn, of the Etsy shop cellsdividing .  Jenn was kind enough to do a custom order for me with one of my favorite scriptures.  If any of you, dear readers, would like a special pendant you can accent with tatting, take a look at what she has in her shop or place a special order.  She was so nice to work with and was most expedient in creating my requested piece and shipping it right on out.  Thanks, Jenn, for the pendant!  I adore it.

 

 

The image above is the pendant before embellishment.

 

The special surprise is in the process of being created!  Our Halloween treat will be entitled "Haunting Elegance".  Be sure to check the blog next week for a peek and make double sure you see what I have in store for you on Halloween!!!

 

As there is much work for me to do, I had better get hopping.  May you have a wonderful week full of tatting joy.  Until next Friday~

Happy Tatting!

 

 



New Threads and Design Elements

Blog theme for October~
"One Of A Kind"

Good morning, dear readers!

For those who won a button package in the give away event:  your buttons were sent out Wednesday and should reach you by this Saturday.  Hope y'all will enjoy them!

 

My latest Valdani thread order came in this week!  Yep, I am a happy tatter!!!  I love to get in thread, even if it is a color I work with a lot.  I spent Thursday organizing my Valdani Luxury Pearl Silks and Pearl Cottons.  Here is an image of one of the silk thread trays in my thread cabinet:

 

 

I also received the Swarovski order.  Here are images of some of my new design elements:

 

 

These rectangular chatons will be so much fun to incorporate into designs!

 

 

And these round chatons will look so nice as center accents for ICR motifs.

 

There are several works-in-progress in the Atelier, but as I was waiting for this Swarovski order, I have not been able to finish them.  I'll try to have some tatted eye candy for you next Friday!

 

Other than tatting and waiting for supplies, I have been busy airing out and cleaning our pop-up camper so we can head out on some Fall outdoor adventures soon.

 

 

We're going to Scotch Guard the exterior this weekend and hopefully have everything prepped for our next excursion.  Rosie Fey didn't know what to think of it at first, but has since learned to love "helping" Mama in it. 

 

As we are finally experiencing cooler temps down here, I am really ready to get in the woods.  (Where I do my best tatting!)  I need to repack the portable Atelier this weekend, too.

 

So, what are you working on, dear readers?  Any fantastic Fall themed projects being tatted out there?  I am working on a special goody just for y'all!  It will be featured on the Halloween post.  So, which "theme" would you prefer for the goody:  "Haunting Elegance" or "Harvest Pop" ?  Be sure to vote in the poll or leave a comment so I'll know what to focus my tatting energies on!

 

Well, Rosie Fey is staring at me and huffing impatiently.  Guess I had better stretch and take her for a run.  May you have a marvelous week and until next Friday~

Happy Tatting!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Autumn Tatting with Buttons

Blog theme for September~
Buttons!

Good afternoon, dear readers!

I have been busy with so many tatting projects, it is difficult to know where to begin.  How about if I give you a peak at the wonderful Autumn colored Valdani threads I'm using in most of my current works.

 

 

Here is a lovely assortment of perle cottons.

 

 

And here are some of my favorite colors in Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk.

 

 

This is a bare bones pendant foundation I did Friday.

 

 

And this one is what I am working on now as I await the start of the New Orleans Saints' game against Tampa Bay.

 

If you would like some FREE patterns using button foundations, check out some of my previous blog posts here, and here.

 

Several of you have asked about my Rosie Fey.  Here are a few images of my growing girl:

 

 

On our run this morning at Lincoln Parish Park.  She LOVES to run on the wooded trails, splash in the creeks and chase the over abundance of squirrels.

 

 

Rosie Fey in profile as she sits pretty for a liver treat.

 

 

And finally, here is this image I snapped of her while I was tying my shoe.  She promises that she was only helping me by poking her nose in my face and giving me puppy sugars as I tried to get my darn laces untangled and retied.

 

Well, I have got to go ahead and post this so I can hot foot it into the kitchen and get snacks for the game ready.  May you all have a wonderful week full of tatting fun & don't forget to leave your comment on the September 6th post for a chance to win some great buttons!  Until Friday~

Happy Tatting!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Plain Jane Project Side Pieces

Olde West Inspiration

Good morning, dear readers!

I have a confession- yesterday was VERY productive in the Atelier.  Three new OOAK design prototypes worked out exactly as I had them in my head & I started making them with Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk.  The bad news is I did not get as far with the next step in the Plain Jane Project as I had planned.  Sorry about that, but the creative juices were flowing and I could not afford to ignore the ideas in my head.

 

Now, if you wish, you may attach the accent drop featured yesterday on the main focal piece of the Plain Jane Project and be done with it- OR if you wish, continue with me on this tat-along as Plain Jane will be transformed into a necklace.  After I finish designing and posting Plain Jane, I plan to transform her into Lady Jayne!  Then you, dear readers, can do the same with your own ideas and such.

 

Anyway, this is how I am starting the two side pieces:

 

 

These ICRs will form a chain on each side of the focal point.  I'm not sure how many for each side yet, but will post the exact number on Monday.  Of course, each tatter may wish to adjust the number of ICRs to make a necklace to her/his preferred length.  The counts are:

ICR 11 very small- 11 CL

ICR 11 followed by 3 very small -s 11 CL

ICR 11 very small - 11 CL

ICR 11 followed by 3 very small -s 11 CL

Tie, hide ends & cut.

 

For the next ICR motif:

ICR 11 + 11 CL

ICR 11 followed by 3 very small -s 11 CL

ICR 11 very small - 11 CL

ICR 11 followed by 3 very small -s 11 CL

Tie, hide ends & cut.

 

Continue with these counts until you have two side pieces that are the length you require.  I will be posting more specific details and instructions on Monday.

 

Well, I have more work to do on Plain Jane and those OOAK pieces are still calling me.  May you all have a fabulous weekend full of creativity!  Until Monday~

Happy Tatting!

 



Celestine

Olde West Inspiration

Good afternoon, dear readers!

I had originally intended to post this morning, but got seriously pre-occupied with another tatting project.  It might be ready to show you later this week.

 

Anyway, I wanted to share with you what I tatted this weekend.  Meet "Celestine":

 

 

Celestine was tatted with Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk in S49 and has crystal AB Swarovski accents, along with crystal turquoise Czech seed beads.  This pendant was inspired by an image of a lovely evening gown from the 1870's I saw featured in a vintage/antique fashion magazine article.  The dress was an ivory color and was festooned with delicate light turquoise colored floral embroidery.

 

As I mentioned, there are a number of various tatting projects and prototypes that are demanding my attention in the Atelier.  Guess I had better get back to it as there is so much to do.  Hope you have a wonderful day and please let me know your opinions on Celestine in the comment section.  Until tomorrow~

Happy Tatting!

 

 



Muddy Bark Difference

Olde West Inspiration

Good morning, dear readers!

 

Rosie Fey behaved herself beautifully yesterday and I had a most productive day in the Atelier.  I am working on three prototypes and the Muddy Bark piece.  It is my hope that I will have a FREE pattern ready for you later next week.

 

After pulling the Valdani Pearl Cotton in Muddy Bark from my thread cabinet, I noticed that there is quite a difference in the color of the pearl cotton and the silk.  Take a look:

 

 

The Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk is MUCH darker.  The pearl cotton reminds me of milk chocolate.

 

 

 

Here is a better view of the pearl cotton.  I tatted a simple chain and ring length to get a feel for it.  I love both colors, but wish they were actually the same color.  Guess the dyes react differently with the threads.  That makes sense as the silk is an animal based thread and the cotton is plant based.

 

Well, I am off to the Atelier before running errands.  I'm still working on finishing the Muddy Bark silk piece and plan to debut it next week.  May you all have a fantastic weekend filled with creativity!  Until Monday~

Happy Tatting!

 

 

 



More Muddy Bark

Olde West Inspiration

Good morning, dear readers!

Yesterday was very productive in the Atelier.  I managed to get the first accent round and additional beading to the center of the Muddy Bark motif done.  Here it is:

 

 

There are more accents to be done to the center and around the outer edges of the foundation before I work on expanding the motif.  I started that work yesterday afternoon and had to re-do my work a couple of times to get the counts just right.  Rosie Fey was my foot warmer as I worked.  She was so laid back and calm.  Unfortunately, she woke up wild as all get out this morning!  Guess we will be going for a longer run in the Piney Woods and romping for a while before I head to the Atelier.

 

The blueberry bushes are overloaded and I need to pick some before settling in to tat for the day.  Whew!  I've got a lot to do before I can pick up my tatting needles today.  Better hop to it.  May you have a wonderful day & until tomorrow~

Happy Tatting!

 

 



Playing with Muddy Bark

Olde West Inspiration

Good morning, dear readers!

 

I finally got in some decent tatting time yesterday after a long romp with Rosie Fey.  My goodness, that puppy could wear out the Energizer bunny!

 

Since the Olde West is my inspiration this month, I decided to work with one of my favorite Valdani Luxury Pearl Silks- S196 "Muddy Bark".  It reminds me of tintypes and sepia toned photographs.  The accents I used are 3mm Swarovski bicones in antique bronze and Delica seed beads in silver-lined dark brown opal.  This is the bare bones of the pendant-in-progress:

 

 

I am currently working on the additional rows to enlarge and enhance the pendant.  More images will be featured on tomorrow's post.

 

What are you working on, dear readers?  Do any of you have special projects in the works? 

 

Rosie Fey is wanting to go for a walk.  After I get her squared away, I plan to retreat to my Atelier and tat the day away.  Have a fabulous day full of creativity & fun.  Until tomorrow~

Happy Tatting!

 

 



Olde West Inspiration

Olde West Inspiration

Good afternoon, dear readers!

I am feeling much better today.  Jocelin and I ran errands this morning in preparation for the 4th of July holiday.  Jim has several days off work, so perhaps we can get some things accomplished around the house & yard.  I certainly hope to get in some serious design time in the Atelier!

 

The blog theme for July is Olde West Inspiration.  The Olde American West is a special love of mine.  My favorite movie is Lonesome Dove, and I dearly love to read Louis L'Amour, Zane Grey & Larry McMurtry.  It is always a thrill to happen up on old sepia toned pictures from that era.  Over the holiday, I plan to watch all of the Lonesome Dove movies along with some John Wayne movies and the Sacketts. 

 

I am in the process of designing a new couture tatting collection inspired by the Olde West.  There will be quite a number of OOAK pieces and a few FREE patterns based upon them.  The thread used for these pieces will be Valdani Luxury Pearl Silks in "Muddy Bark", "Wheat Husk", "Subtle Elegance", "Icy Leaves", and several other VLPS in earth tones.  Accents will include antique cameos, intaglios, cultured pearls, Swarovskis, and Czech seed beads.  Blog posts this month will feature images of a few of the works-in-progress and a couple of FREE patterns.

 

Well, I am off to get supper prepared so we can settle down to watch part one of Lonesome Dove this evening.  May you have a wonderful Independence Day full of freedom and happiness!  Until FRIDAY~

Happy Tatting!



FREE Bridal Filigree Earring Pattern

Shabby Vintage Bridal

Good morning, dear readers!

Here is the very basic foundation for a lovely pair of earrings featuring a finding from Fire Mountain Gems and fabulous Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk in S49 (Subtle Elegance).

 

 

I also used antique beige Czech seed beads and 3mm crystal AB Swarovski bicones for accents.  To begin, string 1 seed bead, 1 Swarovski, 1 seed bead onto silk 4 times.  Run needle through hole near top of finding and tat as follows:

CH 5 very sm - 3 - (with 1 seed bead, 1 Swarovski, 1 seed bead) 3 very sm - 5 CL + to corresponding spot on other side of top of finding.

CH 3 very sm - 3 CL + to hole in finding next to side filigree motif.

CH 4 very sm - 3 - (with 1 seed bead, 1 Swarovski, 1 seed bead) 3 very sm - 4 CL + to corresponding spot on motif of finding.

CH 3 very sm - 3 CL + to hole at the bottom of finding

CH 5 very sm - 3 - (with 1 seed bead, 1 Swarovski, 1 seed bead) 3 very sm - 5 CL + on other side of bottom of finding.

Ch 3 very sm - 3 CL + to hole in finding next to side filigree motif

CH 4 very sm - 3 (with 1 seed bead, 1 Swarovski, 1 seed bead) 3 very sm - 4 CL + to corresponding spot on other side

CH 3 very sm - 3 CL + to beginning of tatting.  Tie knot, place dot of jeweler's adhesive to silk, then cut.

 

Then next round is more simple chain work around the motif.  The counts are CH 5 for smaller areas & CH 13 for larger areas.  You may wish to add a bead before tatting so you have an accent at the base of your work for this round.  I did.  Filigree findings offer so many design options.  Don't be afraid to play with them or adjust the anchor points where you attach tatting.

 

Hope you will enjoy this.  It is a simple, quick way to do something special for a bride you know.  Of course, I plan to add a pearl to the center and ruffle tatting around it to form a bezel in the center.  I encourage you to experiment with adding additional tatting and beading to this pattern.  Have fun and be creative!

 

Well, I am off to take Rosie Fey on a run in the Piney Woods.  Have a fantastic day and enjoy the pattern.  Until next week~

Happy Tatting!

 



Rhinestone Barrette Give Away Event

Shabby Vintage Bridal

Good morning, dear readers!

 

Let's have a fun weekend event- a Rhinestone Barrette Give Away Event.

 

 

Keep in mind that this is a prototype- an experiment.  It is enhanced with Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk in "Mauve Orchid".  I kept the tatting rather simple as the recipient may want to wear it with an elaborate hairstyle.  The tatting can easily be moved around and arranged.  I thought it would be prudent to do so in case an anchoring bobby pin was needed as the barrette itself is fairly heavy.

 

If you would like to win this sparkly goody, simply leave a comment on this blog post.  The winner will be selected via random number generator and announced on the blog Monday morning.  Whomever is selected must contact me with their pertinent info no later than Wednesday.  Failure to do so will result in another winner being selected via random number generator.  Good luck!

 

I sure hope that my thread order comes in today.  There are several threads I am in dire need of to complete some projects. 

 

Many thanks for your comments on yesterday's post.  I am still contemplating what special pattern to design.  If the poll widget will work, I'll post a poll to the right of the blog this morning.  I'll announce what the next FREE pattern will be next week after the poll closes.  Again, thanks for your input & please vote on the poll.

 

Rosie Fey is ready to play and run.  Guess I'd better put on my sneakers and take her to the park for a bit.  May you have a fantastic weekend & until Monday~

Happy Tatting!

 

 



Barrette Progress

Shabby Vintage Bridal

Good morning, dear readers!

 

We are enjoying a gorgeous morning in the Piney Woods.  It's best to do whatever you need to early in the morning as the afternoon temps are quite high.  Plus, the humidity is downright oppressive.

 

I have been making progress on the rhinestone barrette:

 

 

The overwhelming color choice was the Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk in "Mauve Orchid", so that is what I'm using on the first barrette.  I'm planning to use "Subtle Elegance" on the second one and may also include some White Lotus pearl accents on it.  The second one will be more appropriate for a bride, but it seems as though the current trend is for a dash of color for many brides.  I know that I had color in my hair for my wedding- and that was over 20 years ago!  Guess I was ahead of my time.  Ha!

 

The Mother-of-Pearl brooch is almost complete.  I'll feature it on another post after I give it to my Mom.  It must meet with her approval, you know!

 

Jocelin and I harvested 5 more crooked neck squash this morning, along with a mess of snap beans and some turnip greens.  Our garden is doing well this year.  It looks like we'll have plenty to put up and share.

 

Well, Rosie Fey is ready for a romp so I'd better see to her before heading into the Atelier.  I've got lots of tatting work to do and also a special event to plan.  Have a wonderful day & until tomorrow~

Happy Tatting! 

 



Opinions Needed

Shabby Vintage Bridal

Good afternoon, dear readers!

 

We have had some wild weather down here.  The last little thunderstorm left me without internet access, but obviously, it's been restored.  At least the garden seems to be enjoying all the rain.

 

For the special event this month, I will embellish one of the rhinestone barrettes I purchased and offer it as the prize.  Now, just which Valdani Luxury Pearl Silk shall I use to embellish it?

 

 

The choices are S9 "Herb Garden", a lovely variegated green; S49 "Subtle Elegance", a beautiful variegated ivory; S541 "Mauve Orchid", a striking variegated purple; and lastly S93 "Silver Foam", an elegant silver and light grey variegated.  PLEASE leave your choice in the comments section on this blog post as I will begin work on the barrette this weekend!!! 

 

Rosie Fey is a happy puppy.  I gave her a chew hoof and she is busy gnawing away on it at my feet.  I'll have to take some images of her this weekend so y'all can see how much she's grown.  She is almost 5 months old and is growing into a beautiful Catahoula!

 

I have made a little bit of progress on the Mother-of-Pearl brooch, but will probably rip it out as I am not happy with the counts.  It could be better & this is for my mom.  Maybe things will work out better this evening when I work on it.

 

Well, I have got to take Rosie Fey out, so have a marvelous day & until tomorrow~

Happy Tatting!



Shabby Vintage Bridal Finds

Shabby Vintage Bridal

Good morning, dear readers!

 

I found some wonderful goodies at a local accessories boutique that are perfect for some Shabby Vintage Bridal projects!!!  The first one is this cute rhinestone barrette.  It has multiple anchoring points and as the stones have an aurora borealis finish, any color may be used to enhance this beauty.  I purchased 2!

 

 

The other goodies I found are 2 gorgeous rhinestone headbands.  They have stretchy elastic bands that are attached to the ends and both can very easily be enhanced with tatting.  A bridal veil could also be attached.

 

 

I have placed another Valdani thread order and as soon as I get it in, I'll start on these headbands. 

 

Okay, my darling readers, I need your opinion:  shall I do a special Shabby Vintage Bridal give away event later this month?  I am considering what would be an appropriate goody for this one.  What do you think?  A pair of earrings, a pendant, a rhinestone barrette, a brooch, a fascinator???  Any suggestions?  Let me know your thoughts.

 

Our garden has been very productive this year.  I have an abundance of snap beans that I'm putting up.  I'm Frenching the beans this morning and canning them this afternoon.  I hope to get back to the Mother-of-Pearl brooch this afternoon late.  Perhaps I'll have the next step ready to share with you tomorrow.  Until then, have a great day &

Happy Tatting!