I took a needlepoint class at my local needlepoint store, StitchedUp, a few months ago.

I had never done anything this big before and was not familiar with a lot of the stitches called for. Kay, the owner of StitchedUp and the teacher, Denise Park assured me I’d be able to stitch this piece. I enrolled in the class – which was fantastic! – and with help from both of them was able to complete the piece. I’m totally thrilled with it!

I took it one section at a time and had a blast with each new stitch.

There was a lot of beading in this piece and I learned how to attach beads so they “stand” up and stay secure.

I love this turkey!

The ice cubes were the most challenging in this drink. I think I like Very Velvet thread the best!

This drink was soooo much fun. Kay suggested that instead of the thread called for to stitch Santa’s belt, I use Patent Leather. I love the look and think it is perfect for the belt, but found it to be a bear to work with because it did not lay flat easily.

Teacher Denise suggested to do the background stitching first. That was a huge fail for me. I did not know how to use compensating stitches yet and counting to 4 was impossible :o). I worked the background at the same time as all the other elements and that worked for me, but now that I have learned so much I know I will be able to do the background first for my next project.