Kiss and cradle! Yes yes yes! I mean the daily routine and the relaxing end to a chaotic day, I’m all about it! You once again hit the nail on the head! I loooooove your take on the process and you always give me a new take on something as simple as negative space, or a little detail to focus on. What a joy to watch! Thanks ladies!
Haha! Thanks, Dawn! It's always great to hear that folks are enjoying the analyzing Carolyn and I tend to do - we can't help ourselves. Happy Crafting! -Anna
I loved seeing your wip parade, ladies, and also loved seeing your parade of finishes at the end. Thank you so much for all the time and effort that it took to put this video together as I know it's a lot of work and it is very much appreciated. You both are so inspiring.
It was fun for me to see the finishes, too. We have Carolyn to thank for all the video making and editing. She, in particular, was so productive in 2023 and did a lot of experimenting during her sabbatical months. Really amazing to see all the parts and pieces in one place. Happy Crafting, Lorraine! -Anna
Thanks for your kind words, Rhonda. Carolyn and I really appreciate having a partner in each other - it helps us think of ideas while we discuss our pieces. Happy Crafting! -Anna
Thanks so much for all the time it takes to present these fun times for us. Each time you post it is a whole new experience. Enjoyed seeing these WIPS again and the parade of finishes at the end. You two are truly an inspiration to me. I want to be more productive in 2024. May all your plans for the New Year come true. Bless you both!! , ❤Donna
It was super fun to do this WIP parade. Both Carolyn and I were surprised by the number of finishes we had in 2023 - the number was largely due to Carolyn having a sabbatical. She did so much exploring during that time. Happy Crafting, Donna! We appreciate you! -Anna
I'm grateful Carolyn had the time and energy to make that section about finishes. We were both surprised by the number, about 3/4 of which were hers. She really made the most of her sabbatical time in winter and spring of 2023! Happy Crafting, Karen! -Anna
Thanks, Lauren! We enjoy seeing what you're up to, too! I need to figure out a way to get myself moving on the sampler from our father's side of the family! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Thanks, Lisa! I was so happy Carolyn had the time and energy to make the montage. We were both surprised by the number of finishes. Your "Kind and Gentle" piece is looking great! Happy Crafting! -Anna
I feel absolutely great after watching your WIP parade. I worked on Pandemic while watching. Loved seeing all the finishes as well. Sending love, my friends.
Loved your WIP parade. I am so happy Fruits of Plenty is back in the rotation! Of all your WIP's this is my favorite, they are gorgeous. I am very tempted to start it.
Here is a little funny for you guys. After watching this video and listen to the ending music, l wanted to get up from stitching and catwalk. I was laughing to myself as my shoulders were bobbing to the music. I love your videos. Thank you for taking the time to make them. I know it is time consuming. Happy Stitching. Nancy
Love to hear about your catwalking, Nancy! It's so silly and fun, isn't it?! Carolyn and I find the effort of making videos well worth it - we enjoy connecting with other stitchers so much! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Absolutely love your videos. I am also a middle school teacher and love your scholarly approach. Love how you popcorned your WIP parade. Keep sharing ladies.
I taught 6th and 7th grade English for years and am now the School Librarian. Shared your FT with my sister (who runs a tutoring lab.). We love you guys! @@we.are.curiouscrafters
I love your videos so much. When you show up on my feed, I skip to yours no matter who else is in the list. Your catwalk always makes me laugh. Your presentation is so original. I just love it. Happy New Year. Best, K
I think one of the reasons there are two versions of a letter in the alphabet rows are, maybe, for space fillers, to even things out. The alphabets are my favorite part of the samplers I pick to stitch. Love all the projects. Thanks for sharing and inspiring. Happy Stitching.
Oh my. So many beautiful projects. That was so much fun to watch. I do not stitch nearly as much as you two. At least I don't think I do. Thanks for sharing all of your projects.
Thanks, Stacey! The number of stitched pieces surprised both of us. 3/4 of them were Carolyn's. She did so much exploring during her sabbatical. Happy Crafting! -Anna
New to your channel & that was fantastic! LOVE a WIP Parade & you both did an awesome job presenting your beautiful pieces. I try not to let my WIPs exceed 25, but when 1 is complete (big or small), I buy a new pattern or magazine & I do not want to count how many I have accumulated 🥴 Today is an at home stitching day for me, so my WIPs chosen are Blueskin by Plum Street, Kringles by Kathy Barrick (restart b/c I don’t like the fabric color I originally chose), & -& Heaven & Nature Sing, which of course you showed, & they are in order for morning, noon, & evening. I,too, am a Kathy fan! Thanks for sharing & happy Stitching ♥️🧵🪡
Thanks, Susan, and welcome! What a fantastic line up for a day of stitching! I love the tree in "Blueskin." Hope you had a great day! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Really enjoyed your wip parades, Carolyn and Anna. Every year since 2020 my wips have grown. I try not to stress about it. I reevaluate them yearly and this year I still love all of them. Two of my BAP wips that i am going to concentrate on this year are Elizabeth’s Squirrel by The Scarlet Letter and Dutch Sampler by Kathy Barrick. Looking forward to another great year of stitching in 2024! (I am a big Shetland fan, too, Carolyn. I have watched every season except the latest which i am saving. Also recommend Karen Pirie on Britbox.) xx
Can't wait to see those BAPs on your Instagram feed, Tricia! Here's to a year full of fabulous stitching! And enjoy the latest season of Shetland. My husband and I flew through it! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Love seeing your WIP parade!! Anna, I think you should finish Brick House Sampler by Brenda Gervais. It is beautiful and your stitching is wonderful! It looked like you were about half done. I am stitching my first Blessing Sampler, Ellen Johnson 1883 by GigiR. My first traditional sampler, my first red sampler, and first time stitching on 36 count. I also like proceeds went to Doctors Without Borders. I am loving it!!! Happy stitching!!❤
Woah! That's a lot of firsts! I think the red berry bowl on that piece is COOL! My feelings about "Brick House Sampler" remain a mystery to me. We'll see what happens! Happy Crafting, Joyce! -Anna
Enjoyed seeing your WIPs! I'm doing WIPGO for the first time this year -- a blend of cross-stitch and knitting WIPs. I even dug out a full coverage piece I'd half-finished almost 20 years ago (the pattern's dated 2001!) and it came up first thing for January. Lovin' it! Happy New Year!
So enjoyed your WIP parade. I love how you talk through issues you may be having with a particular piece. On several of the very large samplers I've seen, I would be so intimidated to stitch the whole piece, but it would be more realistic for me to stitch my favorite band or motif from the larger piece. I'm currently stitching Houseplants by Owl Forest Embroidery. It's so enjoyable to get one flower done and then watch the progression as I add the next flower.
Oh, that does sound fun, stitching each element of "Houseplants." I highly recommend stitching part of a sampler! Let us know if you try it! Happy Crafting, Connie! -Anna
Oooh, I like your idea of adding a link to a photo of the pattern on your Google Sheet project list. I also keep my purchases and WIPS on a Google sheet, frankly I'm not sure why more people don't do this, and adding a column with the picture link is genius! Thanks for the tip. I'd love for you to mention what data you collect on your sheet. Project name, designer, place purchased, etc. It might give me more ideas.
The only other column that may be of interest is one in which I add any memories of things going on while stitching any particular piece (while visiting someone, while waiting for the birth of a grandchild, etc). Happy Crafting, Tensy! -Anna
I was stitching on White Winter Moth while watching this, which is super fun because it’s the only WIP I currently have in common with either of you. Just wanted to give you some encouragement to keep going with your Fruits of Plenty. I started mine in April 21, and made slow but steady progress that year, but then really stalled in 2022, despite loving it so much, I think because of the size of the fabric (I usually stitch in hand, but it was the biggest piece I’d ever had to wrangle). I eventually moved to stitching on it a frame which helped after I got over the learning curve, and I came into 2023 determined that I’d finish it that year. I think at that point I was a bit shy of half way done. Started off with it as a weekend focus piece - stitching on the frame just felt like too much for my weekday evenings - but then had a big stitchy hiatus due to some home renovations so I got behind. In the end the final quarter of the year I was close to monogamous on it as I knew that was the only way I’d hit my goal, and I finally finished it on 28th December. I have to tell you it felt SO good, I was on a little high for a while, and I’m so proud of myself for getting it done. And yep, I still look at it and think “wow, I did that?!” I don’t think I’d put myself under such pressure again - I was a bit burned out by the end as I’m definitely not a naturally monogamous stitcher, but i don’t regret it one bit. I LOVE it and I know you both will when you’re done. You can totally do it! (@lighthouse_stitcher on insta if you want a peek).
Such gorgeousness, Jenny! Thanks for pointing us to your Instagram feed! And thanks for sharing your "The Fruits of Plenty" story with us - it's inspiring. Have you decided how you are going to fully finish that piece yet? Happy Crafting! -Anna
It will be professionally framed for sure (thinking a brushed silver will work best with the soft colours). Might be odd but I don't display much of my stitching, as much as I adore the hobby it's not really my decorating style! This piece though, my husband and I both agreed it needs to be hung prominently. Now I just have the challenge of finding a framer I can trust with it - the one I used to use retired.
Let us know what you decide. I like brushed metallics a lot. I can also relate to not quite knowing how cross stitch is going to fit into my decorating style. The only display I have so far is a small wooden tray of smalls. -Anna
Sisters, I love your interaction! What a wonderful pair of ladies you are. I too am so glad to have crossstitch in my life. It has become an integral part of my days. Anna, I love the Brick House Sampler……you should try and look at it in some other light and finish it. I am working on one of the Blue Flower pieces….Seasons of the Heart Winter. I started it at the first of January on 40 count and that count is very hard for me. I find I am making a lot of errors that I have to take out and restitch. I have another WIP on 40 count and I should have known to choose 36 for this project. Stitch and learn!!!!! I loved your WIP parade. Thank you! Carol in Texas
Stitch and learn is right! So good for us but a little hard sometimes. Wishing you luck with those 40ct projects, Carol. You'll see that I have decided to pass on my Brick House Sampler. Happy Crafting! -Anna
Thanks so much for the WIP Parade. I really enjoy your videos. I keep thinking about stitching Fruits of Plenty and your monochrome version has been a great inspiration. I would really love to start that this year.
Thanks, Sharon! Let us know if you decide to start "The Fruits of Plenty!" We want all the company we can get - we can all cheer each other on! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Thank you for an awesome WIP parade! And I loved the montage at the end. We have some of the same projects on the go. Tonight I was stitching on Brenda Gervais Seasons of the Heart - Spring.
You know, Anna, you have just about a complete motif there on Red Deer. You could just wrap the border around it, make a small pillow, or stand up, or whatever, which would be really lovely, and then decide later if you want to do the full thing on a higher count where you're getting a more pleasant stitching experience. It's so hard to make it through a big project if you don't love the actual mechanics of the stitching.
I'm liking this idea, Katie. Thanks. It's been fun hearing FlossTubers describing how much they learned from you and enjoyed your part of Sampler Symposium! Welcome home and Happy Crafting! -Anna
Welcome! Haha! Philz is unique and we love it. Our grown children like to get a Philz when they're back for a visit! And In-N-Out! Happy Crafting! -Anna
The beauty of FlossTube is we never go out of style :-) :-) :-) Thank you for joining us on our stitching adventure and for your comment! Happy Crafting, Carolyn
I am so thankful that I have found the two of you on flosstube. You are near my age and just so very comfortable in your presentation. Your stitching is beautiful. As your episode was ending, all I could think about was that each of you have the very special gift of an original sampler that you have reproduced. My question is…..Will you publish your reproduction? Please!!!!! The history on both are so interesting. I would love to know more and STITCH them both. I hope to hear from you.
Welcome, Deanna! Thanks for your kind words. Carolyn and I have no plans for publishing these designs presently - just haven't put much thought into that possibility yet. Thanks for sharing your interest with us. Happy Crafting! -Anna
Hope to finish my 2 biggest WIPS this year Blue flower Happy Campers and Teresa Kogut Let Love Reign. I have started some ornaments too but I have plenty of time for those. Great job ladies love watching your videos.
Such fun patterns! Enjoy! The basket on "Let Love Reign" is one of the ones I noticed for the basket stitching I am doing this year. Happy Crafting, Lisa! -Anna
Sounds like a satisfying start to the year! I'll be curious to see how many WIPs I have after another three years of stitching - haha! Happy Crafting, Dee! -Anna
Thanks for sharing your WIP parade. I am going to focus on my oldest WIP started in 2020 - Land that I Love by Jean Farish. I will stitch on it on the 15th and 30th and hopefully get it done this year. You have beautiful projects.
Anna, I have done the AMERICA heading and Alabama through Georgia, I will start Hawaii next. I plan to put it up in the room where my grandchildren sleep. My blessing sampler or January 1st start is This Little Home Sampler by the Wishing Thorn. It’s such a sweet sampler. It’s finally getting a little warmer here. It’s fun to hear about your teaching careers. My son teaches art K-12 at a small public school that he is thoroughly enjoying.
Oh, the grandkids will love that. Just looked up "This Little Home Sampler" - it is sweet! One of our other sisters is an art teacher. So glad to hear your son is enjoying teaching! Stay warm and enjoy your stitching! -A
Such beautiful projects. Love watching you both. Carolyn your family sampler is gorgeous. Can you show us how you derived the pattern from the photo? Thanks for sharing all your creativity!
Thanks Anna... actually you also recreated or are in the process of recreating a family sampler... I think we ALL would love to hear how you both did it. Anna, looks like you did it the old fashioned way (as I would) and it sounds like Carolyn used modern technology 😮! I'm 73 and still in the stone ages 😂!
Yeah WIP parades. Love to see all of your stitching! I was just thinking this morning about Fruits of Plenty and thinking of it as a progress report on my stitching. I restarted in august of 2020 and Fruits was probably my 4th or 5th and the top is much tougher than the bottom.
Really? You found the top and bottom of "The Fruits of Plenty" to be different experiences? So interesting to me. I'll have to see if I have the same experience. Had to go admire yours on Instagram one more time - so, so pretty. Happy Crafting, Robyn! -Anna
Not tough. Darn autocorrect. I meant rough as in not nice and smooth. Learning what worked best as I stitched. Tough to get it all finished though as interest waxed and waned.
Just found your channel....Love all your projects and chatting about them. I've always wanted to stitch a sampler but it seems a bit intimidating. But to be able to finish your Brick House, would be great! Pick me, Pick me! :)
Welcome, Heather! I really wasn't sure if anyone would be interested in finishing a piece that has already been started. I thought folks would want the pattern and threads. I'll probably decide what I'm going to do with "Brick House Sampler" before our next video and talk about it then. Happy Crafting! -Anna
In regards to the colour on Caroline's sampler, I am wondering if the colours are what they had available at the time and so that is what they used. Or, maybe, in those days people liked different colours together. You know, like sometimes in fashion they have a lot of navy and green together or something like that. What wonderful history on the red sampler. I always thought that Ya Ya is the greek name for grandmother. My son in law is of Greek heritage and that is what he calls his grandmother.
It's fun to wonder about the many elements of original samplers. Carolyn saw a lot of examples of Pennsylvania Dutch stitching when she made a trip to Pennsylvania last winter, and she has incredible color sense. I always value her observations. -A
Ohh - I love a WIP parade. Thanks so much for sharing.😊. I honestly could stitch everything you both are stitching - I’m having a bit of FOMO 😅. My BAP is the Big Red Ship of Life by Ink Circles - I stitch one length of thread per day and I can get one page done in a month. It’s a long term project but I love pulling that piece out everyday because it’s just so lovely. Even though it will take me a couple years to finish I’m ok with that because I just love the project. 🤗
Hi Angela! Once I finish stitching the sampler I'd like to make the PDF pattern available to anyone who is interested (free). Before doing this, I'll need to check with my husband's cousin to make sure their family is okay with sharing. I'll keep everyone posted both on FlossTube and Instagram. I'm glad you enjoyed our WIP parade! It was super fun to film. Happy Crafting! -Carolyn
Hi Kathy! Several folks have asked if we are going to sell the charts of our family samplers. I haven't thought about that seriously. We'll let everyone know if we decide to move forward with sharing those designs. And yes, I'd love to see "The Red Deer Sampler" on your feed! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Where have I been?!! So enjoyed this video and catching up with you both, love all the WIPs. We have very similar taste in stitching. I'm of the Pennsylvania Dutch family heritage also and curious about the book you mentioned a few times, would you mind sharing the information about it please and thank you? Kristy
Hi Kristy! It's fun knowing that we have an interest in the Pennsylvania Dutch in common! The book we referenced is Samplers of the Pennsylvania German by Tandy and Charles Hersh, 1991. Highly recommend! Happy Crafting! -Anna
You both have beautiful WIP parades, and all the finished pieces at the end was lovely too. But something was sadly lacking here - the fashion show. Did your modelling contracts not get renewed? 😆 Take care, and happy stitching/crafting, Arleen
New to your channel! I'm so happy to have found you. We seem to like similar samplers. I'm assuming you're on the west coast with a 9 pm new years reference. I'm in WA and would love to hear about your favorite shops if you're in the PNW. Thanks!
Welcome, Cindy! Isn't it fun to find folks who stitch similar pieces?! We live in the San Francisco Bay Area. One of our sisters lives in Portland, so we have visited Acorns and Threads up there. Happy Crafting! -Anna
Newly returned to stitching and I LOVE watching you two. Questions: If you talked about it in the past, please point me to the episodes :) What light/magnifier/glasses do you use for stitching on the fine linens? Also, what method do you use to start and end when you don't carry floats between letters or isolated motifs? My to-start list grows every time I watch you. And I love some of the great tips you share - like the half crosses and full crosses every 10 to help count across! -Angela
Isn't it fun to come back to a craft and see all the new options? I used to stitch in the 1980s. I use the floor lamp and magnifier from daylight. We usually start our thread with the pin stitch and end by tucking the thread under some stitches on the back. Welcome back to stitching and Happy Crafting, Angela. -Anna
thank you so much! I can't even believe how much things have changed - I stitched from maybe the early 1980s until about 1998. So much fun!@@we.are.curiouscrafters
My first project back, after using only Aida, is a linen with metallic bits in it.😵💫 Gah! It’s almost like learning to knit using black yarn. But I’m loving the challenge and have added a couple more projects so my WIPs already. @@we.are.curiouscrafters
I know! It's amazing to see a year's collection! I'll have to check out the video you're referencing. I've been knee deep in writing report cards! Happy Crafting, Becky! -Anna
In what episode could I find out on what fabric you stitched Winter Comes? I’ve been agonizing over what to stitch it on. I want to do the small lighter one just like yours.
Hi Kimberly! The border on that piece is one of the prettiest I've seen. Carolyn purchased a kit from Acorns and Threads a year or so ago. The fabric is 36ct Vintage Woodsmoke by Lakeside Linens. It may be worth a call to see if they have any Lakeside in stock. Happy Crafting! -Anna
Hi Theresa! I think that is exactly what the yellow needs to be -- brighter! I'm going to add in a brighter yellow and see how it looks. Thank you for the suggestion. Happy Crafting! -Carolyn
Some over-dyed cottons are not colorfast. We test them by wetting a strand and putting it between two paper towels to see if any color transfers. We purchased our wool at our LNS, Needle in a Haystack. Happy Crafting, Theresa! -Anna
Thanks for a great WIP parade. I am hesitant to note this, but will do so anyway. A Greek Yiayia is not spelled Ya Ya. In Greek it is Γιαγιά. Also, her name, Marika, would have been a variation of the name Maria and pronounced with a long E for the I . This is just as it would be when pronouncing the name Maria.
Who doesn’t like a parade? Thanks ladies, it was enjoyable. 😊
Thanks, Jo! Haven't all the parades been fun to watch?! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Kiss and cradle! Yes yes yes! I mean the daily routine and the relaxing end to a chaotic day, I’m all about it! You once again hit the nail on the head! I loooooove your take on the process and you always give me a new take on something as simple as negative space, or a little detail to focus on. What a joy to watch! Thanks ladies!
Haha! Thanks, Dawn! It's always great to hear that folks are enjoying the analyzing Carolyn and I tend to do - we can't help ourselves. Happy Crafting! -Anna
Another wonderful Floss Tube ! Thank you Carolyn and Anna.❤
Thanks, Karen! Happy Crafting! -Anna
I loved seeing your wip parade, ladies, and also loved seeing your parade of finishes at the end. Thank you so much for all the time and effort that it took to put this video together as I know it's a lot of work and it is very much appreciated. You both are so inspiring.
It was fun for me to see the finishes, too. We have Carolyn to thank for all the video making and editing. She, in particular, was so productive in 2023 and did a lot of experimenting during her sabbatical months. Really amazing to see all the parts and pieces in one place. Happy Crafting, Lorraine! -Anna
Your flosstube has quickly become my favorite! I love the variety and just how organized you both are!
Thanks for your kind words, Rhonda. Carolyn and I really appreciate having a partner in each other - it helps us think of ideas while we discuss our pieces. Happy Crafting! -Anna
Thanks so much for all the time it takes to present these fun times for us. Each time you post it is a whole new experience. Enjoyed seeing these WIPS again and the parade of finishes at the end. You two are truly an inspiration to me. I want to be more productive in 2024. May all your plans for the New Year come true. Bless you both!! , ❤Donna
It was super fun to do this WIP parade. Both Carolyn and I were surprised by the number of finishes we had in 2023 - the number was largely due to Carolyn having a sabbatical. She did so much exploring during that time. Happy Crafting, Donna! We appreciate you! -Anna
Enjoyed your WIP parade, but what I REALLY loved was that finishes parade at end! Wow! So many projects completed.
I'm grateful Carolyn had the time and energy to make that section about finishes. We were both surprised by the number, about 3/4 of which were hers. She really made the most of her sabbatical time in winter and spring of 2023! Happy Crafting, Karen! -Anna
Loved your WIP parade ladies! Especially love the heritage samplers you choose, such a great way to honor your family 😊
Thanks, Lauren! We enjoy seeing what you're up to, too! I need to figure out a way to get myself moving on the sampler from our father's side of the family! Happy Crafting! -Anna
So many fantastic WIPs and finishes! Loved seeing all the photos at the end.
Thanks, Lisa! I was so happy Carolyn had the time and energy to make the montage. We were both surprised by the number of finishes. Your "Kind and Gentle" piece is looking great! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Such lovely projects - every.single.one! Cheers to a wonderful year of stitching ahead!
Thanks, Kathy! Wishing you a spectacular year of stitching, too! -Anna
Fabulous WIP parade ! You guys are so inspiring. Thanks for sharing !😊
Thanks, Pamela! Carolyn and I continue to have so much fun making these videos! Happy Crafting! -Anna
I feel absolutely great after watching your WIP parade. I worked on Pandemic while watching. Loved seeing all the finishes as well. Sending love, my friends.
:) You're one of our inspirations for finishing HUGE pieces, Sarah. Love to you, and Happy Crafting! -Anna
Loved your WIP parade. I am so happy Fruits of Plenty is back in the rotation! Of all your WIP's this is my favorite, they are gorgeous. I am very tempted to start it.
Working on that piece today! Let us know if you decide to start it! Would you stitch it in two colors or one? Happy Crafting, Tracey! -Anna
Thank you ladies. I am working on Valentine things. Lots of hearts. Yes, Happy New Year
Enjoy all that heart-filled stitching! -A
Here is a little funny for you guys. After watching this video and listen to the ending music, l wanted to get up from stitching and catwalk. I was laughing to myself as my shoulders were bobbing to the music. I love your videos. Thank you for taking the time to make them. I know it is time consuming. Happy Stitching. Nancy
Love to hear about your catwalking, Nancy! It's so silly and fun, isn't it?! Carolyn and I find the effort of making videos well worth it - we enjoy connecting with other stitchers so much! Happy Crafting!
-Anna
Love the projects and all the project bags. Thanks so much for sharing.
It was great fun to dig out all our "stuff!" Glad you enjoyed the video. Happy Crafting, Hanna! -Anna
This was great ladies I really enjoyed this. Thanks so much you are so talented. ❤
Thanks, and so glad you enjoyed watching. We enjoyed making this video! Happy Crafting, Yvonne! -Anna
Hi ladies! This is my first time watching, and I just love your energy and the beautiful WIPs that you are working on. Thanks for the inspiration!
Welcome, Nora! Thanks for your kind words. Carolyn and I are having so much fun on this cross stitch adventure! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Great wip parade girls !! Happy Stitching
Thanks, Jenn! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Loved your WIP parades!!! So inspiring!!
Thanks, Michelle! Carolyn and I are having so much fun! Happy Crafting! -Anna
I'm working on Red Deer. I love that we all love it! 😂
It's a beautiful and compelling design. What's not to love, right?! Happy Crafting, Emily, and enjoy your Red Deer! -Anna
Absolutely love your videos. I am also a middle school teacher and love your scholarly approach. Love how you popcorned your WIP parade. Keep sharing ladies.
Patrice! How fun! What do you teach? Thanks for your kind words and Happy Crafting! -Anna
I taught 6th and 7th grade English for years and am now the School Librarian. Shared your FT with my sister (who runs a tutoring lab.). We love you guys! @@we.are.curiouscrafters
Sisters! Wonderful! -Anna
I love your videos so much. When you show up on my feed, I skip to yours no matter who else is in the list. Your catwalk always makes me laugh. Your presentation is so original. I just love it. Happy New Year. Best, K
So nice! Thank you, Karen. The catwalk should be back in the next video - haha! Happy Crafting! -Anna
I love the conversation around each wip. I stitched on my BAP…stained glass owl…the whole time doing confetti stitches.
I just went back in your feed to see "Stained Glass Owl" - so cool! Happy Crafting! -Anna
I think one of the reasons there are two versions of a letter in the alphabet rows are, maybe, for space fillers, to even things out. The alphabets are my favorite part of the samplers I pick to stitch.
Love all the projects. Thanks for sharing and inspiring. Happy Stitching.
Ooooh! I hadn't thought of a space filler. Thanks, Lisa, and Happy Crafting! -Anna
Oh my. So many beautiful projects. That was so much fun to watch. I do not stitch nearly as much as you two. At least I don't think I do. Thanks for sharing all of your projects.
Thanks, Stacey! The number of stitched pieces surprised both of us. 3/4 of them were Carolyn's. She did so much exploring during her sabbatical. Happy Crafting! -Anna
New to your channel & that was fantastic! LOVE a WIP Parade & you both did an awesome job presenting your beautiful pieces. I try not to let my WIPs exceed 25, but when 1 is complete (big or small), I buy a new pattern or magazine & I do not want to count how many I have accumulated 🥴 Today is an at home stitching day for me, so my WIPs chosen are Blueskin by Plum Street, Kringles by Kathy Barrick (restart b/c I don’t like the fabric color I originally chose), & -& Heaven & Nature Sing, which of course you showed, & they are in order for morning, noon, & evening. I,too, am a Kathy fan!
Thanks for sharing & happy Stitching ♥️🧵🪡
Thanks, Susan, and welcome! What a fantastic line up for a day of stitching! I love the tree in "Blueskin." Hope you had a great day! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Loved seeing your projects. I might have to add Scarlett Berries and Peacock, Unicorn and Badger to my 2024 new starts!
Sounds like an awesome plan! Carolyn and I are absolutely loving both of those pieces! Happy Crafting, Bethany! -Anna
Thanks for sharing your stitching.
Thanks for joining us! Happy Crafting, Linda! -Anna
Lovely projects ladies❤❤
Thank you! We're loving our cross stitch adventure! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Really enjoyed your wip parades, Carolyn and Anna. Every year since 2020 my wips have grown. I try not to stress about it. I reevaluate them yearly and this year I still love all of them. Two of my BAP wips that i am going to concentrate on this year are Elizabeth’s Squirrel by The Scarlet Letter and Dutch Sampler by Kathy Barrick. Looking forward to another great year of stitching in 2024! (I am a big Shetland fan, too, Carolyn. I have watched every season except the latest which i am saving. Also recommend Karen Pirie on Britbox.) xx
Can't wait to see those BAPs on your Instagram feed, Tricia! Here's to a year full of fabulous stitching! And enjoy the latest season of Shetland. My husband and I flew through it! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Super fun - I prefer to only have 2 or 3 whups at the most. Everything looks great and color is all around you - fabulous. hugs
I can see the appeal of just having just a few WIPs. Enjoy them and Happy Crafting, Kathie! -Anna
Love seeing your WIP parade!! Anna, I think you should finish Brick House Sampler by Brenda Gervais. It is beautiful and your stitching is wonderful! It looked like you were about half done. I am stitching my first Blessing Sampler, Ellen Johnson 1883 by GigiR. My first traditional sampler, my first red sampler, and first time stitching on 36 count. I also like proceeds went to Doctors Without Borders. I am loving it!!! Happy stitching!!❤
Woah! That's a lot of firsts! I think the red berry bowl on that piece is COOL! My feelings about "Brick House Sampler" remain a mystery to me. We'll see what happens! Happy Crafting, Joyce! -Anna
Enjoyed seeing your WIPs! I'm doing WIPGO for the first time this year -- a blend of cross-stitch and knitting WIPs. I even dug out a full coverage piece I'd half-finished almost 20 years ago (the pattern's dated 2001!) and it came up first thing for January. Lovin' it! Happy New Year!
Oh, fun! Nothing like a blast from the past to start things off! I hope you continue to enjoy your WIPGO experience, Margaret. Happy Crafting! -Anna
So enjoyed your WIP parade. I love how you talk through issues you may be having with a particular piece. On several of the very large samplers I've seen, I would be so intimidated to stitch the whole piece, but it would be more realistic for me to stitch my favorite band or motif from the larger piece. I'm currently stitching Houseplants by Owl Forest Embroidery. It's so enjoyable to get one flower done and then watch the progression as I add the next flower.
Oh, that does sound fun, stitching each element of "Houseplants." I highly recommend stitching part of a sampler! Let us know if you try it! Happy Crafting, Connie! -Anna
Fabulous show ladies!
Thank you, Rhonda! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Oooh, I like your idea of adding a link to a photo of the pattern on your Google Sheet project list. I also keep my purchases and WIPS on a Google sheet, frankly I'm not sure why more people don't do this, and adding a column with the picture link is genius! Thanks for the tip. I'd love for you to mention what data you collect on your sheet. Project name, designer, place purchased, etc. It might give me more ideas.
The only other column that may be of interest is one in which I add any memories of things going on while stitching any particular piece (while visiting someone, while waiting for the birth of a grandchild, etc). Happy Crafting, Tensy! -Anna
I was stitching on White Winter Moth while watching this, which is super fun because it’s the only WIP I currently have in common with either of you.
Just wanted to give you some encouragement to keep going with your Fruits of Plenty. I started mine in April 21, and made slow but steady progress that year, but then really stalled in 2022, despite loving it so much, I think because of the size of the fabric (I usually stitch in hand, but it was the biggest piece I’d ever had to wrangle). I eventually moved to stitching on it a frame which helped after I got over the learning curve, and I came into 2023 determined that I’d finish it that year. I think at that point I was a bit shy of half way done. Started off with it as a weekend focus piece - stitching on the frame just felt like too much for my weekday evenings - but then had a big stitchy hiatus due to some home renovations so I got behind. In the end the final quarter of the year I was close to monogamous on it as I knew that was the only way I’d hit my goal, and I finally finished it on 28th December. I have to tell you it felt SO good, I was on a little high for a while, and I’m so proud of myself for getting it done. And yep, I still look at it and think “wow, I did that?!” I don’t think I’d put myself under such pressure again - I was a bit burned out by the end as I’m definitely not a naturally monogamous stitcher, but i don’t regret it one bit. I LOVE it and I know you both will when you’re done. You can totally do it! (@lighthouse_stitcher on insta if you want a peek).
Such gorgeousness, Jenny! Thanks for pointing us to your Instagram feed! And thanks for sharing your "The Fruits of Plenty" story with us - it's inspiring. Have you decided how you are going to fully finish that piece yet? Happy Crafting! -Anna
It will be professionally framed for sure (thinking a brushed silver will work best with the soft colours). Might be odd but I don't display much of my stitching, as much as I adore the hobby it's not really my decorating style! This piece though, my husband and I both agreed it needs to be hung prominently. Now I just have the challenge of finding a framer I can trust with it - the one I used to use retired.
Let us know what you decide. I like brushed metallics a lot. I can also relate to not quite knowing how cross stitch is going to fit into my decorating style. The only display I have so far is a small wooden tray of smalls. -Anna
Sisters, I love your interaction! What a wonderful pair of ladies you are. I too am so glad to have crossstitch in my life. It has become an integral part of my days. Anna, I love the Brick House Sampler……you should try and look at it in some other light and finish it. I am working on one of the Blue Flower pieces….Seasons of the Heart Winter. I started it at the first of January on 40 count and that count is very hard for me. I find I am making a lot of errors that I have to take out and restitch. I have another WIP on 40 count and I should have known to choose 36 for this project. Stitch and learn!!!!! I loved your WIP parade. Thank you! Carol in Texas
Stitch and learn is right! So good for us but a little hard sometimes. Wishing you luck with those 40ct projects, Carol. You'll see that I have decided to pass on my Brick House Sampler. Happy Crafting! -Anna
Thanks so much for the WIP Parade. I really enjoy your videos. I keep thinking about stitching Fruits of Plenty and your monochrome version has been a great inspiration. I would really love to start that this year.
Thanks, Sharon! Let us know if you decide to start "The Fruits of Plenty!" We want all the company we can get - we can all cheer each other on! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Thank you for an awesome WIP parade! And I loved the montage at the end. We have some of the same projects on the go. Tonight I was stitching on Brenda Gervais Seasons of the Heart - Spring.
Those seasonal charts are so pretty - enjoy stitching "Spring"! Happy Crafting, Clare! -Anna
You know, Anna, you have just about a complete motif there on Red Deer. You could just wrap the border around it, make a small pillow, or stand up, or whatever, which would be really lovely, and then decide later if you want to do the full thing on a higher count where you're getting a more pleasant stitching experience. It's so hard to make it through a big project if you don't love the actual mechanics of the stitching.
I'm liking this idea, Katie. Thanks. It's been fun hearing FlossTubers describing how much they learned from you and enjoyed your part of Sampler Symposium! Welcome home and Happy Crafting! -Anna
Your finishes are beautiful ladies, they make me want to stitch everything in my stash 😁🌻
Hi ladies! Thank you for the wonderful video. My favorite WIP right now is Remember Me by Teresa Kogut.
Hi Amy! I think the border in "Remember Me" is glorious. Are your enjoying stitching it? Happy Crafting! -Anna
@@we.are.curiouscrafters I love every minute stitching Remember me. I am hoping to have it and Let Love Reign finished this year. We will see.
First time viewer😊 when you had Philz, I had to look and see where you are- I’m in Ventura county. Ok back to enjoy the parade
Welcome! Haha! Philz is unique and we love it. Our grown children like to get a Philz when they're back for a visit! And In-N-Out! Happy Crafting! -Anna
Love your videos! ❤
Thanks, Helen! Happy Crafting! -Anna
I am sooooo far behind in watching crafty videos, but better late than never!❤
The beauty of FlossTube is we never go out of style :-) :-) :-) Thank you for joining us on our stitching adventure and for your comment! Happy Crafting, Carolyn
Loving seeing all the patterns. I have got my first Kathy B pattern!
Woohoo! Celebrating that fact! Which pattern did you choose?! Happy Crafting, Fiona! -Anna
@@we.are.curiouscrafters Busy Hands. Going to ask Evertote for the Roxy Floss conversion and see how many I have!
I am so thankful that I have found the two of you on flosstube. You are near my age and just so very comfortable in your presentation. Your stitching is beautiful. As your episode was ending, all I could think about was that each of you have the very special gift of an original sampler that you have reproduced. My question is…..Will you publish your reproduction? Please!!!!! The history on both are so interesting. I would love to know more and STITCH them both. I hope to hear from you.
Welcome, Deanna! Thanks for your kind words. Carolyn and I have no plans for publishing these designs presently - just haven't put much thought into that possibility yet. Thanks for sharing your interest with us. Happy Crafting! -Anna
Hope to finish my 2 biggest WIPS this year Blue flower Happy Campers and Teresa Kogut Let Love Reign. I have started some ornaments too but I have plenty of time for those. Great job ladies love watching your videos.
Such fun patterns! Enjoy! The basket on "Let Love Reign" is one of the ones I noticed for the basket stitching I am doing this year. Happy Crafting, Lisa! -Anna
I have way too many WIPS, I'm afraid to count them up. But my January has been awesome, stitching a ton, finished one.
Sounds like a satisfying start to the year! I'll be curious to see how many WIPs I have after another three years of stitching - haha! Happy Crafting, Dee! -Anna
Thanks for sharing your WIP parade. I am going to focus on my oldest WIP started in 2020 - Land that I Love by Jean Farish. I will stitch on it on the 15th and 30th and hopefully get it done this year. You have beautiful projects.
Just looked up that chart! Wow! In what section did you start? Happy Crafting, Carol! -Anna
Anna, I have done the AMERICA heading and Alabama through Georgia, I will start Hawaii next. I plan to put it up in the room where my grandchildren sleep. My blessing sampler or January 1st start is This Little Home Sampler by the Wishing Thorn. It’s such a sweet sampler. It’s finally getting a little warmer here. It’s fun to hear about your teaching careers. My son teaches art K-12 at a small public school that he is thoroughly enjoying.
Oh, the grandkids will love that. Just looked up "This Little Home Sampler" - it is sweet! One of our other sisters is an art teacher. So glad to hear your son is enjoying teaching! Stay warm and enjoy your stitching! -A
Such beautiful projects. Love watching you both. Carolyn your family sampler is gorgeous. Can you show us how you derived the pattern from the photo? Thanks for sharing all your creativity!
Hi Robin! I'll point Carolyn to your question. Maybe she can describe her process on a future video. Happy Crafting! -Anna
Thanks Anna... actually you also recreated or are in the process of recreating a family sampler... I think we ALL would love to hear how you both did it. Anna, looks like you did it the old fashioned way (as I would) and it sounds like Carolyn used modern technology 😮! I'm 73 and still in the stone ages 😂!
Yeah WIP parades. Love to see all of your stitching!
I was just thinking this morning about Fruits of Plenty and thinking of it as a progress report on my stitching. I restarted in august of 2020 and Fruits was probably my 4th or 5th and the top is much tougher than the bottom.
Really? You found the top and bottom of "The Fruits of Plenty" to be different experiences? So interesting to me. I'll have to see if I have the same experience. Had to go admire yours on Instagram one more time - so, so pretty. Happy Crafting, Robyn! -Anna
Not tough. Darn autocorrect. I meant rough as in not nice and smooth. Learning what worked best as I stitched. Tough to get it all finished though as interest waxed and waned.
Ah! Got it! -A
Just found your channel....Love all your projects and chatting about them. I've always wanted to stitch a sampler but it seems a bit intimidating. But to be able to finish your Brick House, would be great! Pick me, Pick me! :)
Welcome, Heather! I really wasn't sure if anyone would be interested in finishing a piece that has already been started. I thought folks would want the pattern and threads. I'll probably decide what I'm going to do with "Brick House Sampler" before our next video and talk about it then. Happy Crafting! -Anna
In regards to the colour on Caroline's sampler, I am wondering if the colours are what they had available at the time and so that is what they used. Or, maybe, in those days people liked different colours together. You know, like sometimes in fashion they have a lot of navy and green together or something like that. What wonderful history on the red sampler. I always thought that Ya Ya is the greek name for grandmother. My son in law is of Greek heritage and that is what he calls his grandmother.
It's fun to wonder about the many elements of original samplers. Carolyn saw a lot of examples of Pennsylvania Dutch stitching when she made a trip to Pennsylvania last winter, and she has incredible color sense. I always value her observations. -A
Ohh - I love a WIP parade. Thanks so much for sharing.😊. I honestly could stitch everything you both are stitching - I’m having a bit of FOMO 😅. My BAP is the Big Red Ship of Life by Ink Circles - I stitch one length of thread per day and I can get one page done in a month. It’s a long term project but I love pulling that piece out everyday because it’s just so lovely. Even though it will take me a couple years to finish I’m ok with that because I just love the project. 🤗
I'm so glad the "one length a day" goal is working for you! We're cheering you on with that BAP! Happy Crafting, Peg! -Anna
Have you thought about selling your Ya Ya sampler pattern, or do you just want to keep it for yourself? Great WIP parade gals!
Hi Angela! Once I finish stitching the sampler I'd like to make the PDF pattern available to anyone who is interested (free). Before doing this, I'll need to check with my husband's cousin to make sure their family is okay with sharing. I'll keep everyone posted both on FlossTube and Instagram. I'm glad you enjoyed our WIP parade! It was super fun to film. Happy Crafting! -Carolyn
If either of you decide to sell your family charts, sign me up! Thanks for sharing your WIPs. I really need to get back to the Red Deer Sampler!❤❤❤
Hi Kathy! Several folks have asked if we are going to sell the charts of our family samplers. I haven't thought about that seriously. We'll let everyone know if we decide to move forward with sharing those designs. And yes, I'd love to see "The Red Deer Sampler" on your feed! Happy Crafting! -Anna
I’d love to work on your sampler. Can’t wait to see how you pursue giveaway.
Good to know there may be interest! I don't know what I'm going to do for sure yet. Happy Crafting, Louise! -Anna
Where have I been?!! So enjoyed this video and catching up with you both, love all the WIPs. We have very similar taste in stitching. I'm of the Pennsylvania Dutch family heritage also and curious about the book you mentioned a few times, would you mind sharing the information about it please and thank you? Kristy
Hi Kristy! It's fun knowing that we have an interest in the Pennsylvania Dutch in common! The book we referenced is Samplers of the Pennsylvania German by Tandy and Charles Hersh, 1991. Highly recommend! Happy Crafting!
-Anna
You both have beautiful WIP parades, and all the finished pieces at the end was lovely too. But something was sadly lacking here - the fashion show. Did your modelling contracts not get renewed? 😆 Take care, and happy stitching/crafting, Arleen
Haha - we were just renegotiating our modeling contracts! Thanks for your encouraging comments, Arleen, and Happy Crafting! -Anna
New to your channel! I'm so happy to have found you. We seem to like similar samplers. I'm assuming you're on the west coast with a 9 pm new years reference. I'm in WA and would love to hear about your favorite shops if you're in the PNW. Thanks!
Welcome, Cindy! Isn't it fun to find folks who stitch similar pieces?! We live in the San Francisco Bay Area. One of our sisters lives in Portland, so we have visited Acorns and Threads up there. Happy Crafting! -Anna
Newly returned to stitching and I LOVE watching you two. Questions: If you talked about it in the past, please point me to the episodes :) What light/magnifier/glasses do you use for stitching on the fine linens? Also, what method do you use to start and end when you don't carry floats between letters or isolated motifs? My to-start list grows every time I watch you. And I love some of the great tips you share - like the half crosses and full crosses every 10 to help count across! -Angela
Isn't it fun to come back to a craft and see all the new options? I used to stitch in the 1980s. I use the floor lamp and magnifier from daylight. We usually start our thread with the pin stitch and end by tucking the thread under some stitches on the back. Welcome back to stitching and Happy Crafting, Angela. -Anna
thank you so much! I can't even believe how much things have changed - I stitched from maybe the early 1980s until about 1998. So much fun!@@we.are.curiouscrafters
I was just starting to explore even weave when I left the cross stitch world. I love all the linen options now! -A
My first project back, after using only Aida, is a linen with metallic bits in it.😵💫 Gah! It’s almost like learning to knit using black yarn. But I’m loving the challenge and have added a couple more projects so my WIPs already.
@@we.are.curiouscrafters
Look at all the fun you guys had last year! Anna, let me know f you want some zipper tape. You know I have plenty from my last video!
I know! It's amazing to see a year's collection! I'll have to check out the video you're referencing. I've been knee deep in writing report cards! Happy Crafting, Becky! -Anna
Haha! I am 10 seconds into your video and NOW I see what you're referring to! :) -A
New subscriber love the WIP parade!! Question, what is the cocoa fabric called on the first wip Scarlet Berries
Welcome, Dawn, and thanks! I'm stitching "Scarlet Berries" on 36 ct Cocoa by Weeks Dye Works. Happy Crafting! -Anna
In what episode could I find out on what fabric you stitched Winter Comes? I’ve been agonizing over what to stitch it on. I want to do the small lighter one just like yours.
Hi Kimberly! The border on that piece is one of the prettiest I've seen. Carolyn purchased a kit from Acorns and Threads a year or so ago. The fabric is 36ct Vintage Woodsmoke by Lakeside Linens. It may be worth a call to see if they have any Lakeside in stock. Happy Crafting! -Anna
As far as I was told that Pennsylvania Dutch is German speaking descendants from Rhineland. From the artwork I've seem of them the yellow is brighter.
Hi Theresa! I think that is exactly what the yellow needs to be -- brighter! I'm going to add in a brighter yellow and see how it looks. Thank you for the suggestion. Happy Crafting! -Carolyn
which floss is not colorfast? Where did you get the wool floss?
Some over-dyed cottons are not colorfast. We test them by wetting a strand and putting it between two paper towels to see if any color transfers. We purchased our wool at our LNS, Needle in a Haystack. Happy Crafting, Theresa! -Anna
Thanks for a great WIP parade. I am hesitant to note this, but will do so anyway. A Greek Yiayia is not spelled Ya Ya. In Greek it is Γιαγιά. Also, her name, Marika, would have been a variation of the name Maria and pronounced with a long E for the I . This is just as it would be when pronouncing the name Maria.
Hi Maria -- I am so glad you corrected both my spelling and my pronunciation! So, so, so helpful. Thank you and happy crafting! -Carolyn
Carolyn can you share with me Japanese paper that you love, thanks.
The brand of Japanese grid paper I like is Maruman. Enjoy! -Carolyn
Hello from TeXaS 🧵🪡🙏👍🥶🧊👋🤠42 whip parade 💥💨❄️🧵🪡
Hi, Carol! Happy Crafting! -Anna