Learn the basics of Japanese Paper Embroidery from this delightful book that will inspire you to create beautiful cards and gifts by embroidering onto cardstock, journals and even boxes. Full of easy-to-follow instructions and ideas.

A gathering of lucky folks joined us at Bolt & Spool a few weeks ago to learn a bit about local artist Emily Felderman's creative journey. It was an exquisite demonstration of not knowing where you will end up once you let yourself be cajoled by shape, texture and color. 

Along with probably 99% of the US population, I have heretofore been unaware that February is National Embroidery Month! I had the flu about a month ago, and was all snug and cozy on the couch in front of the fireplace with, gasp! idle fingers. Embroidery seemed like something doable between coughs and naps.  So while poking around on the internet for inspiration I learned about embroidery month and was prompted, with this as justification, to share an old fondness for this ancient art in the form of free classes and (ta da!) a blog post!  You won't be surprised that embroidery is making...

As a prelude to Mardi Gras (coming up on February 9 this year) and with a nod to the epicenter of Louisiana/New Orleans Voodoo, we are making voodoo dolls! To be specific, that's the collective we: you and we. Oui? My family thinks I've gone around the bend and off the deep end, but they think that a lot. This little idea has blossomed into a bit more so read on... Many years ago a friend jokingly gave me a voodoo doll as an outlet for my frustration over a boss that was ignorant and overbearing. They are both long-gone...