Wednesday, February 6, 2013

A Maryland Inspiration

For the start of 2013 I decided to stitch with friends on the "A Maryland Inspiration" Sampler by Heart's Ease Examplar Workes.


What a project and this is going to be a huge commitment.  In the first month everyone was working towards getting the outer board done.  No Way.  This thing is huge and doing it on a 40 count is a challenge.  Here is an idea of how large this project is.

 
A couple of weeks ago I attended the Sampler Symposium at Attic Needlework.  While I was there I picked up an awesome frame.  Jean from the shop told me about putting my fabric to the back of the frame so that I could run my needle under the frame easier. This is so great.  It also makes it easier to work on the 40 count fabric.  The size and shape of this hoop is amazing.
 

 
During my visit to Arizona I spent time with family.  On a trip to the Lost Dutchman State Park we got a chance to see the most amazing hawk.  It is a Harris Hawk.
 
 
Here is an amazing sunset at the park.
 
 
Being back at home in the cold and snow makes it really hard since I got to enjoy a wonderful weekend in Arizona.
 
Time to stitch and forget about the cold.

7 comments:

Stitcherpharmd said...

Looks great!!!!

Keeper of the Crowes said...

This is a gorgeous sampler. I'll be anxiously awaiting updates!!!
Linda

CJ in OK ;-) said...

Beautiful pics. Good luck with your sampler that hoop seems great. CJ in OK

pj said...

Wow, lucky you - Arizona!!! I love The Attic store. I have that hoop and others from the same company and they work great. The oval one is fun to do samplers with as you can work across easier.

Hope you are doing fine and looks like you have a big task ahead with the Maryland sampler. It is a beauty.

pam in iowa

llknbillburg said...

One of my friends and I are stitching this sampler too as part of Ellen Chester's SAL. You are so right about the size of the thing! And about getting BOTH of those vine borders done in one month. NO WAY!!!
Laura

Natalia said...

Beautiful sampler !! I can't wait to see more of your progress...

Brigitte said...

Wow, what a gorgeous sampler. With a very detailed border - no wonder that it can't be stitched up quickly. What I particularly love are the colours of this sampler. Beautiful!