Pincushion

This pincushion is from a design by Jenny of Elefantz . Jenny has some beautiful designs and a lovely blog, some great tutorials too. Big thanks to Jenny.
I have used Jenny's pattern for the stitchery, but have added a row of decorative machine stitching at the top and bottom of the design. Just used a regular poly thread. Must admit, I have not utilised the fancy stitches on my machine a lot, and am pleased with the result. Definitely plan to play with those a bit more in the future.
Again, although I changed it a little Jenny's pincushion has the pocket for the scissors. Wonderful idea that I am finding very handy.
I used a DMC varigated thread for my hand stitching.

January Stitchery and Fabrics

Our January project for Chookyblue's Stitch a Long was a gorgeous stitchery, a free pattern from Anni Downs. Thankyou Anni!
I love this kind of stitchery, and have made it into a hanging ornament ready for next Xmas.

And, here are the fabrics I have ready to begin "Natures Journey".... yes, I had fun shopping. I have gone with neutrals for the backgrounds, and will be adding some darker colours to it. The burgundy fabrics are some I had already, and I have spotted a beautiful darker country blue that I plan to use for the borders and bindings. The stitchery will be in the blue thread shown.
When I saw the pattern, these colours just came to mind, so we'll see how it all comes together. I'll be adding other fabrics as I go!