More about the two 2010 With My Needle and Pen SALs

I’m thrilled with the enthusiastic response to the two 2010 With My Needle and Pen stitch-along projects. I have received several questions about the stitch-alongs, and I hope the following will answer them. If not, please let me know.

Where do I get the chart and other supplies?

Contact your favorite needlework shop and ask them to get the items for you. Let me know if you have any trouble.

What do I need to do to be part of one, or both, SALs?

All you need to do is get your supplies and start stitching.

How do I put something in the newsletter about my progress on my SAL project?

Just email me. I need to receive any newsletter submissions by March 28th for inclusion in the April newsletter.
Specific information about the Acorn Sampler Sewing Case

Do you want to “talk” about the project with other stitchers?
Darby, who is the Acorn Sampler Sewing Case SAL leader, is setting up an email loop for those who want to talk about the project. If you want to be added to the loop, email Darby. In addition, at the With My Needle Facebook page there is a photo album and also a discussion section for discussing this project. Hopefully some of you will also send me some info for the newsletter.

Figuring out where to start.
The stitched area of the sampler and the sewing case (before the basting stitches are added) is 78 x 148 stitches which on 32-count linen measures approximately 4-7/8 x 11-1/2 inches. (With basting lines in place, the sewing case measures 5-1/2 x 12-1/2 inches.)

If your linen measures 9 x 15-1/2 inches as suggested in the directions, you will have a 2-inch linen margin on all four sides. Measure down 2-1/4 inches from the top edge, and 4-1/2 inches in from either side and make one of the cross stitches at the top of the cartouche (the oval area).

Now work the acorn border along the top edge and also 4 or 5 acorns on each side. Using the stitch diagrams in the directions, choose which stitch you want to use for each acorn cap. Perhaps you know of other stitches you also want to use. It is fun to use as many different stitches as possible. In April, we’ll continue with the acorn border and also stitch the alphabet and two squirrels in that area.
Questions??
Let Darby or me know if you have any questions about the Acorn Sampler Sewing Case. Darlene can answer your questions about the L. Haworth sampler. (I started stitching on L. Haworth last night, but didn’t get very far. Perhaps I'll do better tonight.)