Heart Patterns for Cross Stitch / Evenweave Fabric

I had some time to work up some new patterns and post them on my hobby site: http://hobbyloco.com/Xpatt01.html

The pattern shows a basic heart outline, lace border and 4 different fills.   When stitched on 11ct aida, each heart measures about 1-1/4" wide by 1" tall.

I have created quite a few patterns over the years & posted many of them on my hobby site to print and stitch for FREE.   There are over 50 patterns right now & I try to add new ones on a regular basis.   They are all small patterns - perfect to use on bookmarks, ATCs, greeting cards, etc...

Puffy Hearts

I made these puffy hearts for a swap.   I had originally envisioned myself creating a wild, bright, funky, colorful assortment of hearts ... in reality I ended up making a more traditional, somewhat Victorian style assortment of hearts.

You have to follow the path that your muse lays out for you & that is where my muse went this weekend.

The hearts were made from cotton and velvet fabrics with lace, ribbon, ric-rack, machine stitching, hand embroidery, glass and plastic beads, and buttons. They measure about 4" across and just under 5" tall.

I hope they are enjoyed by the swappers who receive them.   I can't wait to see what everyone comes up with!

a handy way to clean silver

I have always hated silver because of the tarnishing.   I was so upset to find that my favorite necklace had tarnished!   However, thanks to the wonderful info on the internet ... I was able to get the tarnish off in just a few minutes with no polishing!

Here are my before and after photos - taken with my scanner:


It is very simple to do.   You only need water, baking soda, salt, and aluminum foil.

I found the info here:
http://www.home-jewelry-business-success-tips.com/clean-tarnished-silver-jewelry.html

The one thing that they don't mention on the website ... when the sulfur atoms come out ~ Pee-Yew!   Stinky like rotten eggs (only not as strong).   It is totally worth it, though.   I swished my necklace around for a minute or two, rinsed it off & dried it - and it is good as new!

a Happy Thanksgiving!

Things have been busy over here in puppetland, lately. I will be working a few hours today ... but will take some time to relax a bit and enjoy the holiday. I hope all of you have a Happy Thanksgiving, as well.