Friday, December 26, 2014

catching up....

I always take this time of year to catch up....finishing up some projects, starting some that have waited in the wings, new techniques I haven't had a chance to learn and some organizing. This doll pattern was brought to my attention months ago and I've wanted to try it. I'm using the Lion Brand bonbon cotton yarn that I have left over from some other project and I'm making a few changes to the design. The doll is not meant to be stuffed but I'm going to stuff it for a more substantial doll. It's almost finished. Still missing one leg and a little ruffled skirt and the hat. The pattern is on Ravelry.

click on the images...

a doll for a little girl

I talked about Tambour Stitching last time. I have been practicing every day for almost two weeks and I think I've finally mastered the chain stitch. It's the only stitch needed in tambour stitching but not one that's easy to master with the tambour hook.

the chain stitch on netting using the tambour hook

It was a matter of experimenting with different threads, different fabrics, and learning when to release tension on the hook and how to pull it through the fabric. The instructor (online class) says to use organza but i didn't have much luck with the organza.....lots of big holes and constantly snagging the fabric with the edge of the hook. Mary Corbet's video was a tremendous help. You can see it here. I'll go back to the organza once I've had more experience but the netting is actually what I prefer to make some pretty lace. I'm now ready to try the next step which is making the chain stitch while picking up a bead or sequin that will be pre-strung on the thread.

....and yes, I have made some progress on the Downton Abbey coat. The front and back have been blocked. It took a couple of days for the pieces to dry. Still have to block the sleeves and the collar and there is some more knitting to be done to join the shoulders to the back. I have to re-read those instructions.

back

front
 If you celebrate the holidays, hope it was fun and festive. The weather has been mild here except for yesterday morning. We went from 27 degrees F in the morning to 65F by afternoon. We are expecting some cold days this weekend, but our winters are very mild here so it probably will not last long. Stay warm and cozy and see you next time.


15 comments:

Anita said...

cute doll ! You've mastered the first and important step in tambour embroidery,yay! Congratulations Deanna!

Jane said...

what a lovely looking doll and well done on your progress with the tambour embroidery. I've been cleaning up and found a few things to get finished or to work on.

margaret said...

the doll looks interesting and your tambour work is coming along well, I have the tool always wondered what it was for so now I know. The coat is going to be wonderful. Snow here yesterday evening but it is now thawing thankfully as I have to go out to buy a turkey today as the girls are coming for our christmas lunch monday

Rachel said...

I'm intrigued by tambour embroidery, too - one for my list of Techniques To Try one of these days...

Els said...

Lovely doll DEanna !
The jacket is "growing" just fine ;-)

All the best Deanna, we have snow (!) here right now .... one day late for a really "white xmas" ....

liniecat said...

Cutey doll pattern and your coat is looking great

Stitching Lady said...

The best to you, Deanna, for the new year - and WE will have it still festive a few days. Thank you for your posts which are always filled with something new and interesting, with hints and links.

Mo Crow said...

thanks for sharing your explorations Deanna!

karen said...

the doll looks really exciting Deanna. When you master Tambour work I know you are going to use it with great effect in your other embroidered pieces....a snippet of it here and there. I can't wait.

deanna7trees said...

Magpie's Mumblings said...

The doll is such fun to make isn't it. I didn't stuff the one I did and our grandson was able to grab onto it easily. If it were for an older child, stuffing it would be a good idea I think. Can't wait to see the Downton coat being modeled!!

Peggy said...

Love the doll you're knitting, Deanna, thanks for the info. and also the link on that technique you've learned. It won't be long now for the coat! Happy New Year.

Connie Eyberg Originals said...

Tambour looks so interesting to me. I look forward to following your progress in 2015. I have too many things on my list to learn for the coming year already. If I get anywhere with them I might have a go at this. You have some nice projects going! Happy 2015.

Anonymous said...

Some great stuff going on - really looking forward to seeing the Downton coat made up! And best wishes for a Happy New Year!

Anonymous said...

Good for you for tackling the challenge of Tambour. Lookin forward to seeing you model your beautiful new coat.

Nat Palaskas said...

Congrats on the Downton Abbey coat. I would love to see you wearing it once it's done - Hugs Nat

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