Punch and Cookies

I have been asked quite a few times lately by friends if we (Piccalilli Design, but more importantly my mom) would teach them how to needlepunch. So, I am letting you all know that we are going to set up a few "classes" for anyone in the Salt Lake City area who would like to learn how to create with this form of embroidery. If you are interested, send me an email at piccalillitoo@gmail.com, or you can leave me your contact info on the comments. We will set up classes according to the response.

It is really a fun thing to learn. You can frame the finished product, turn it into a softie, a pillow, a gift. It is also a fun thing to do with girlfriends, mothers, daughters, your book group, blog looky-loos....

You can choose from the designs already in our etsy shop (and there are 8 or so more that are nearly ready, including the Christmas tree to the left) or bring a pattern of your own choosing.

So please don't be shy! If you are in the area and would like to learn how but feel a little hesitant about contacting me, JUST DO IT! Contact me and I will send you details. Punch and cookies and a new hobby? Not too shabby.

On the Shelves!

We have put the first set of punchneedle patterns into local stores today! This has been so long in coming, I can't even tell you. Have a look at the inaugural designs and let me know what you think.

First we have the royal one, Prince of Quails. He stands a majestic 5 x 5 inches when completely punched

Then we have the Star Gazer, though he might be more of a court jester. He is 5 3/4 x 7 inches when finished

Belle of the Ball is our little gal who stands 5 x 7 inches when complete.

And finally, our little friend Strut. He is 5 x 5 inches when he graces a room.

Punchneedle embroidery, or needlepunch, is an easy way to embroider. This embroidery technique is worked with a special tool called a punch needle which creates loops on the fabric (very similiar to rug hooking, just on a smaller scale). Amazing textures from the one easily learned stitch used in this punchneedle embroidery method are achieved by incorporating a myriad of different colored threads, yarns and silk ribbons through various sized punchneedles. If you haven't tried this type embroidery, give it a shot, it is really fun and something different.

Each pattern comes with a pre-printed pattern on high quality cloth so you are ready to go, along with a list of materials needed and instructions. And, if you know of any needle arts shop you think would like to carry these guys, let me know. Or if you would like to try one out, leave me your contact info. Thanks. We are so excited about these and I am not above self-promoting on my blog.