Region News

Creative Uses for Blackwork on Canvas

Virtual Lecture with Ann Strite-Kurz

Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 1:00 pm

 This lecture will begin with a discussion of some traditional uses of blackwork on Congress cloth and show why traditional patterns are better on 24-count canvas.  Then Ann will progress to some unconventional applications that include layered patterns with laid work both underneath and on top of the blackwork pattern, layered patterns using two values of one color and/or two weights of thread, patterns in two colors, patterns that are combined with canvas filling and patterns with strategic outlines that punctuate other elements.
Ann will also discuss the three methods of executing blackwork sequences and cite the advantages and shortcomings of each method.  These styles are the backstitch method (commonly used on hardanger cloth or aida fabrics where traveling threads don’t show), reversible or double running method and the combination method of alternating back stitches and running stitches with double running side trips.
Some charted examples of her original patterns will be shown with their sequences to illustrate that patterns can use unconventional stitch lengths.  Approaches to designing original patterns will also be included along with ways to avoid crooked outlines.
There is no fee for this lecture.  A Zoom link has been sent to all Region Members.
For more information, please contact Marietta Douglas at mlette_97@yahoo.com
Bio: Ann Strite-Kurz has been an active designer and traveling teacher for forty years.  She received her Level II certification in canvas embroidery in 1982 from NAN (formerly the Valentine Museum).  She also earned a Master Craftsman in Canvas Embroidery from the Conn. River Valley Chapter of EGA in 1980 and wrote three group correspondence courses for EGA.  She specializes in creative applications of counted thread techniques to canvas and is noted for her unusual analytical approach to stitch refinement.  In addition, Ann has published five books on unconventional patterning, including diaper patterns, couching patterns, backgrounds and open composite treatments.

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Stitching at the MET Gala 2025

Region Seminar – Saturday and Sunday, April 26 and 27, 2025

 

Kathryn Diuguid – Warwick Cosmos

 

Our Stitching at the MET Gala 2025 stitching weekend has ended but our attendees enjoyed two days of stitching and socializing with old friends while making new friends. Another stitching weekend is being planned for next year.

Registration for our online class, Mrs. Sparkles with Dawn Donnelly has closed; weekly Zoom sessions will begin on May 14 for four weeks.

Registration for our online class, Warwick Cosmos with Kat Diuguid is open through May 28. This class will be taught virtually beginning Monday, August 11, 2025 for 4 weeks. The cost of this class is $217 which includes the teaching fee, kit fee and shipping of the kit.

The class information sheet and registration forms are below.

Stitching at the MET Gala 2025 Class Description Warwick Cosmos

Seminar 2025 Virtual Class Registration Form – Warwick Cosmos

For more information, please contact Janice Meyers at GrayceeDM@aol.com

 

 

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Counted Canvas Special Interest Group

A Counted Canvas Specialty Group is being led by Marietta Douglas. Counted Canvas is a type of needlepoint that uses blank canvas and a charted design with instructions to guide the stitching.  The group  meets on the last Sunday of every month at 3pm via Zoom. For more information on this group, please contact Marietta Douglas at mlette_97@yahoo.com

The Counted Canvas group has decided to stitch a project together.  They have chosen Teal-licious by Freda’s Fancy Stitches.   Participants should get their own pattern and supplies, and then come stitch with the group.

If you are not interested in stitching this particular design, you are still welcome to attend the Counted Canvas Special Interest Group meetings.  Just bring whatever counted canvas design you happen to be working on.

A Zoom link will be sent out each month prior to the meeting.