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Mary Corbet

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I learned to embroider when I was a kid, when everyone was really into cross stitch (remember the '80s?). Eventually, I migrated to surface embroidery, teaching myself with whatever I could get my hands on...read more

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Eighth Day of Christmas: Beautiful Range of Wool Threads

 

Amazon Books

After today, only four more days of this 12 Days of Christmas give-away series! It’s been a lot of fun reading all the incoming comments – and a lot more reading than I realized it would be when I conceived this whole plan. I love hearing other people’s thoughts about needlework!

These last five days promise some really fun stuff, so I hope you’re still hanging in here with me!

Today’s give-away is courtesy of Renaissance Dyeing, a company devoted to creating natural plant-dyed wool yarns and threads for needlework. Renaissance Dyeing produces a beautiful range of threads for crewel embroidery. They are a pleasure to stitch with, smooth and soft, and the colors are fabulous! I used quite a few of Renaissance Dyeing’s crewel wools in my crewel rooster project, way back when. It’s a great thread to work with!

Renaissance Dyeing Crewel Wool - Elizabethan Range

The winner of today’s give-away will receive the Elizabethan Range from Renaissance Dyeing. This is a range of 27 skeins of wool, dyed using mordants and natural dyes available in the 16th century. The thread is 100% lambs wool and has a nice soft sheen and good coverage. It is a smooth thread, not prone to pilling. And – we’re talking about 27 beautiful colors here!

If you’ve ever wanted to create your own 16th century bed coverlet covered with Jacobean embroidery, you can start with these.

If you are interested in the whole question of hand-dyed threads the “old fashioned” way, you might take a look at the article on woad dyeing in the south of France that Andie wrote for Needle ‘n Thread last September. It’s interesting stuff!

Give-Away Instructions

Today’s eighth day of Christmas give-away winner will receive the Elizabethan Range of crewel wool from Renaissance Dyeing. Please follow these (simple) instructions to be eligible:

1. Leave a comment at the end of today’s article. If you click on this link, it will take you directly to the comment area, so that there are no mishaps! Comments delivered via e-mail or on other articles will not be included in the give-away.

2. In your comment, answer the following question:

So, do you want this range because you’re a 16th / 17th century embroidery fan? Or just because they’re nice wools in pretty colors? (It’s ok to admit either one – I would personally fall in the latter category, I think!)

3. Make sure you leave a recognizable name either in the body of your comment, or on the “name” line above the comment box. For example, if your name happens to be Elizabeth, you might include a last initial or a location to differentiate yourself from any other Elizabeth that might join in.

4. Leave your comment before January 9th, 2012, at 5:00 am Central Standard Time (Kansas, USA!). All winners for this series will be selected on January 9th, and announced that day here on Needle ‘n Thread. You’ll have to check back on January 9th to see if you’ve won, because the winners will need to contact me within 3 days to claim their prizes. The Give-Away is Now Closed. Thanks for your interest!

Merry Eighth Day of Christmas!

Please do not panic if your comment does not show up immediately. All comments are moderated in the order in which they come in, and they will eventually be posted. If you are looking for your comment, please use the “older comments” and “newer comments” links at the top of the comments section. These will take you through all the comments pages, from newest to oldest.

 
 

(1,188) Comments

  1. My local branch of the Embroiderers’ Guild has just started planning a Jacobean project. If I were fortunate to win these beautiful threads, they would go to this project.

    1
  2. These are gorgeous wools; color and texture, I’d love to use them. I went to the site and read through the description of the range. I laughed out loud at the final comment “We have spared you the dubious honour of producing your hand dyed wool or embroidery thread work in colours such as ‘puke’, ‘dead Spaniard’ and ‘goose-turd-green'”

    2
  3. I would like to enter this giveaway because they’re nice wools in pretty colors. I do think that they are gorgeous colors and I would love to work with them. Thanks.

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  4. What a wondelful wool collection , I would like to win this to make a gift for my consultant who is going on retirement.

    4
  5. I’m a fan of 16th/17th century embroidery fan and have beautiful patterns to use these beautiful wool threads! Thank you Mary and Renaissance Dyeing for offering this beautiful gift.

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  6. I love the softness of the range of colours. I have done some crewel work before and historical embroidery does interest me.

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  7. Oh, Mary! I am newer to embroidery, but am loving adding hand embroidery to my quilts, I am a huge history gal, would love to do a jobean reproduction quilt, and, ooh, ooh, love, love, love those colors! when folks ask me what my favorite color is, I usually reply, yes! I have never worked with wool, but might as well start with the best, yes?

    7
  8. Oh, Mary!

    I am a Jacobean style embroiderer (well, that’s the style that most appeal to me) and I absolutely love crewel embroidery. As a matter of fact I tried ordering from the Renaissance Embroidery website and kept getting an error.

    The wools are pretty, but I have to admit that I have bought countless of books on “Jacobean or Elizabethan” type embroidery and to that is what I dedicate myself the most.

    Best,

    Viv

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  9. I love crewel embroidery and it would be wonderful to have such a wide variety of threads to use. Thank you for the opportunity.

    9
  10. Wow!!!! Lovely wool threads in fabulous color range – sure to get you started on a crewel embroidery project of 16th or 17th century

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  11. I LOVE Jacobean designs and would very much enjoy these threads in order to begin a project I’ve had rumbling around in my brain for a while. Thanks for the exquisite photos you show us on your website. Ypu are not just an accomplished needlewoman but are computer and camera savvy.

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  12. All the colours are fabulous and I think any project worked with them would turn out great. I hope I get the oportunity to try them out.

    Thanks a lot.

    Gillian.

    12
  13. OK,honestly I would use this for purely medicinal purposes. Who wouldn’t get a lift viewing these or be calmed by gently stroking/touching the skeins. Winter can be long,cold, and dark. This rainbow gift is for the soul and mental well being of a stitcher–much better for the body than chocolate or red wine!

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  14. Bonjour Mary,
    YES,YES I am drooling over this giveaway…l6th -l7th century embroidery, not for me,,,color, wool, thread, all for me.
    I am a visuel person and colors are a magnet to me. I look at all the sites you mention and dream and dream…. excellent giveaway.
    Thanks Mary.
    France from Canada.

    14
  15. Swoon! I’m definitely in the love to own because of the colors category. I have hand dyed cotton fabric in a rainbow of colors and just looking at those gorgeous colors lifts my heart. I’m taking part in Sharon B’s TAST this year so having lots of different threads to work with is definitely on my list. Mary, your prizes just keep getting better and better. Thanks for the inspiration and fun!

    17
  16. Its the colours, just the colours, I could lie and say Im really into crewel work and this collection would enrich my designs, but it would be a big fat stinker of a lie. I want to win cos its sooo pretty. I would use the wools if I won though, I wouldnt just sit looking at them, honest!!

    18
  17. These are gorgeous–and I want them for both reasons–plus, I quilt and would love to use these for embellishing my wool quilts–thank you!

    Shari

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  18. Definitely a color junkie! I have used crewel embroidery thread to knit bookmarks and I would love the chance to use this fancy thread on a lace mini-masterpiece. Thanks for showing us the range of possibilities in the stitching world!

    20
  19. Beautiful threads. I would like to win these threads simply because they are wool. There is just something about stitching with wool. Like butter, I tell you! The colors are just an extra bonus and I appreciate the dyeing process.
    Thank you for an opportunity to win!
    Deb

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  20. Wow! This is like paint chips! Yes, the colors are awesome and I could do alot with them. Crewel embroidery is great but the colors are better. Would love to win the rainbow of wool threads! Happy New Year to all!

    22
  21. In answer to the question, I have to say both! But what I’m really interested in the natural vegetable dyes/mordants process. At one time, I decided to grow some different kinds of flowers that were going to produce dye for fabric. I planted and grew several kinds – but come to find out, not near enough!!! It takes a lot of plant material to produce dye! So, I finally had to admit defeat as I didn’t have acres, only a few flower beds and just admire them as flowers 🙂 Karen Gass

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  22. What yummy colours. I fall into the second category but I do like to knit socks. Not as elaborate as the ones in the kit though. They would be too hard on my wrists and I need to save them for crazy quilting stitching

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  23. Sincerely I only would like to touch a non DMC wool,I’m not fond of wool embroidery so far…
    don’t count with in this giveaway – I’ve not any wool project for next times

    25
  24. Mary,
    Have always liked the look of Jacobean stitching, but it’s not what I stitch. Yes, they are beautiful colors. Would love to try these threads on canvas.
    Took a brief look at the kits. Yummy! I knit and crochet,but have never knitted socks. This may be the year to start the Kilim socks caught my eye. And the Hall of Fire and Roman de la Rose tams…

    27
  25. I belong to both category,but more of latter.It would be such a pleasure to own some of those gorgeous wools!!

    A very happy new year to you..

    Deepa

    28
  26. Love, Love Love 16th/17th century embroidery and there is nothing as elegant as wool thread for this type of project. Wool thread gives the piece a rich and superior quality about it. Using wool thread shows there was much forethought and care given to the piece. The beautiful colors are equally important. The piece would not be complete without outstanding colors. It would be my greatest pleasure to try a piece like this with the beautiful range of colors available.

    29
  27. oh wow, I love this offering. I love wool, I love hand dyes, and I am in love with this collection since it is from the 17th century. thank you so much for the chance. Kathy in Missouri

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  28. What beautiful colors and it sounds like the yarn handles well. I would love to do an embroidery piece in the Elizabethan theme. I made a sampler using silk on old linen and it is lovely, my favorite piece. Using this yarn would by wonderful if not in a full coverlet, a pillow covering, something useful.

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  29. I would like them because they are range of colors and they are quality thread.. some day i like to a Jacobean flower.

    Joanie M in W. Tn

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  30. This is kismet!! Just moments ago I was looking at crewel woolens, having decided that January is going to be “crewel month” for me. I love the colors and feel of crewel wool, and one goal is to adapt some William Morris designs for crewel. I recently received Tanya Berlin’s pick and pounce set up and having these yarns to add to my projects would keep me very happy during the harsh winter months here in Maine.

    Doreen

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  31. The fact that they’re dyed using 16th century techniques draws me in. That they’re beautiful hooks me.

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  32. G’day Mary,
    Well, my interest quickens when I see any ‘older’ embroidery and I do love to squiz through books that have any semblance of embroidered costumery from the gracious ages. Also, the books on Elizabethan embroidery projects have me delightedly enthralled, so without realising it, I think I must be a fan of that era. Just simply, the colours rainbowed out like that, in all innocence of making any mental disturbance to the right side of my brain, are tantalizing me.
    Having said that though, the first item to catch my eye just now on the Renaissance Dyeing site was the Bohemian Rhapsody scarf/wrap in crochet. I so love it, colours, design, everything. Quite a time warp between the Eliz era and the Bohemian uprising. I’ve always maintained I am a contradiction so at least I seem to be consistant in being inconsistant!
    A very kindly thank you to Renaissance Dyeing and yourself, Mary for making this special giveaway possible.
    Cheers, Kath from Oz.

    ps: the scissors yesterday, I do have a nice few good, modern embroidery and dressmaking scissors. I was only thinking of the rustic ones as my only collectable ones now. Just didn’t want you to think they were all I have for my embroidery!

    37
  33. Ohmygosh, Mary, this just gets better and better! Those colors ARE luscious, but I also like the embroidery of the era and every era!

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  34. Can I pick both? I love this style and the warm colors. Pretty! Pretty! Pretty! Pick me!

    39
  35. I’ve not tried these wools but they look luscious. I want them because I love the colors. Although I like 16 th and 17th century embroidery I don’t do a lot of it.

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  36. I’m currently stitching a crewel needlecase (the one you’d advertised with the birds) and I love this wool. Would love to win the yarn and do more of this type of work.

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  37. Oh they are lovely and I want them both because they’re beautiful and I would love to make, say, something from Thistle Threads with them – like their Casket Needlecase or perhaps something smaller in keeping with the Jacobean era. Did I say they’re beautiful? The colours are astounding and it would be really satisfying to make something authentic with them. Did I say they’re beautiful? Oh please, please, please pick me!!!

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  38. Well, I am a fan of embroidery regardless of the century…but, the colors are my main draw. I have been wanting to do a wool crazy quilt project, and think that doing wool embroidery for that would be stupendous.
    Kathy

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  39. I want this range to add to my stash because of the colors. I really like having new “things and stuff” in my stash — never bored over here. Or, I would give them to a friend who is a history buff and crafter.

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  40. I love the wool because of the pretty colors. I would love to branch out into larger crewel projects and this would give me that jump start!

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  41. Hi Mary,
    These are beautiful colors…
    I have long been wanting to stitch a crewel firescreen – tree of life design and I would love to incorporate different types of wools …if I win this then perhaps it will be the impetus to design my piece and get started on it as my first new start for 2012!

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  42. Oh my! I’ve been wanting some of the Renaissance wools ever since I first heard of them. Such lovely colors! And while I do like the old embroideries immensely, it is the beautiful shades of these yarns thatI find most compelling.

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  43. I like the beautiful colors… would use to display on hearth and maybe try some needle work…

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  44. Hi Mary,
    Please consider me a 16th & 17th century gal.

    From one of my favourite books by Gail Marsh – 18th Century Embroidery Techniques (page 19)- ‘… And send mee a fine cotton for a gown with cinnamon of yellowish ground flowered very handsomely with shades of colours, & enough for another gown of fashionable cotton with a whole ground flowered with colours, of a crown a yard.’
    Elizabeth Purefoy to Anne Baxter, Linen Draper, 1753.

    So I would love you to send me such beautiful ‘shades of colours’! Ehat a fabulous opportunity, thanks
    Chris from Australia

    50
  45. My interest is the dyeing and colours achieved as I do like natural dyes. I do have a small floral Elizabethan sampler I could try this on.

    So yes I would like to win this beautiful set of Renaissance Dyeing wool skiens.

    thank you again Mary for another lovely lucky dip.

    51
  46. Just because they’re nice wools in pretty colors?

    And because on the back burner have a ren headpiece with embroidery ruminating in my head. Winning these awesome yarns might push that thought to the fron burner. 😀

    Thanks again for a delightful 12 day giveaway.

    52
  47. I would like these because they are beautiful colors and your description makes them sound lovely to work with. I am always eager to add to my thread stash for crazy quilting and other embroidery. I am attracted to Jacobian embroidery, too.

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  48. What beautiful yarn! I always look forward to receiving your emails each morning and can’t tell you how much I have learned. Thank you for sharing your talent and knowledge! Carolyn

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  49. Hi Mary, I so enjoy finding out what you are giving away every day. I have not joined all the give-aways, since some of the items are out of my range of interests.
    I love the colours of these crewel yarns, and I have done costuming for the SCA (Society for Creative Anachronisms). But mainly I am interested in the wool for the colours and the chance to try out crewel embroidery.
    Tania

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  50. I haven’t done a crewel project in years, but who wouldn’t be tempted by those beautiful colors!

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  51. It’s the eight day of christmas, my true love said to me…….that is what this competition does to me….makes me want to sing…….and I am.

    Being fascinated with natural fibres, as I am, this little collection makes me drool with envy at the lucky lady who wins this…. OHHHH the joy of getting a whole collection of delicious colours in one go.

    I don’t have a reason, as such for why I want to win because if I live to be 150 I still won’t have learnt all there is to learn about this beautiful “thing” we are all so passionate about. I am in the process of looking for embroidery designs from the internet, from the antique to the modern. I want to do it all. I am currently doing a sampler book of linen with each page and different technique, mostly silk on linen, but also cotton on linen and wool on linen…………..each page will be a bit of a story, it is very exciting……….

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  52. Thnaks so much for all the beautiful trips trough embroidery and not anyone. I am a fan of embroidery in general and the prestigious 16th and 17th one.The threds are so beautiful also.I hope I ‘ll be among the winners.

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  53. I’d love this set of wools. We can’t get them here in the UK so I would be one up on my stitching friends. Like you I love the feel of wools and love the colours. Gosh my mind is whirring now with thought as how to use them.

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  54. Thanks Mary, these 12 days of Christmas is so much fun I enjoy opening a new gift from you each day, even if I don’t win.

    For me Mary it would be, 16th / 17th century embroidery fan. I remember my dad telling me..
    “Betty I don’t know where we got you from, I think you were born to the wrong century.” They are also very nice wools in pretty colors.
    I just love them!

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  55. I am a 16th/17th Century embroidery fan, but I’d buy them for the colors. Lucious, to say the least!

    Thanks for the great giveaways!

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  56. Hi Mary!
    Good question!The colors are lovely!I must admit that I’m not a fan of 16th/17th century embroidery.But I like learning those techniques.I’ve started working with wool (embroidery)only recently.When I read some blogs/books about crewel embroidery each author prefers a particular brand than the others.I was confused,so I thought of trying out different brands and come to my own conclusion:).I’ve not yet worked with Renaissance Dyeing’s Elizabethan range of crewel wool.If I win this I’ll be so happy to work a Jacobean embroidery-a panel or a bell pull.keeping my fingers crossed.Thank you so much for these wonderful give-aways.

    Anita-MM

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  57. I would just love to try these threads. They are Beautiful. What a wonderful prize!!!!

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  58. Well, in all honesty, I’d like these wools because they are so very pretty BUT, I also have a hankering to try stitching the crewel rooster (I LOVE working french knots and I think they are really effective on the cocks comb) so these wools would give me a kick-start. The only problem is they look so beautiful laid out in the picture that I almost feel it would be a shame to break them open. Maybe I could just keep them as they are and look at them as a work of art in themselves… but that would be a terrible waste!

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  59. The wool threads are beautiful and the article on how they are dyed is very interesting. I like the threads because of the colors. I have never stitched with the Renaissance Crewel wool and would like to try it.

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  60. Ooohh yummm!! I would like to win these wools because of the gorgeous colours!! The wool sounds delicious as well – and look at the sheen in the photo…. swoon!

    Thank you yet again, Mary!!

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  61. I laugh when I think of all the broken resolutions for stitchers! If LIFE didn’t interfere, we might GET all our planned stitching done. But it never works out that way, and I think most of us end up the year with more UFO’s than we began!! For 2012, just keep your wonderful emails coming. We all love them very very much!!
    Joyce Harrison

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  62. i don’t know enough about this time period of embroidery. i have seen some jacobean kits that are gorgeous so it would be nice to do one eventually. I would like these threads as a starter point to someday doing one. plus, they’re lovely.

    d. altieri

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  63. Hi Mary,

    As I do like to work with my hands and create something – it doesnot matter if it is needlework or gardening.
    To me history is very interresting specially how things were done and created. I must atmit the coulors is very beatiful.

    Heleen Botha
    Zeerust
    South Africa

    76
  64. Good Morning! I’m a fan of crewel wool fibers but not necessarily 16th/17th century embroidery. Wool fibers are great to work with (I’m also a knitter) for both texture and color. Thank you.

    77
  65. Hi Mary and Happy New Year to all!

    I would desire to have this range of beautiful wools because I love Jacobean embroidery designs from the 16th century. The color palette of these wools is perfect for this type of needlework. It’s beautiful!

    Jan B. from Florida

    78
  66. Now these are awesome! As to which I would want them for, while I a big fan of 16th/17th century crewel, the colors are so beautiful, and what a range of them, this time I believe it is the colors that hit me! I have a couple of nice Jacobean designs that cry out for these colors. Barb

    80
  67. I am into Elizabethan Embroidery at present as I have always wanted to explore crewel work further, Howerer, the colour range is so beautiful that I could use a fine wool for any type of wool work. The colours give endless posibilities

    81
  68. Hi Mary,

    I would love to win this collection of wool threads. Although it would be fun to do, I am not as interested in working a 16/17 century piece as I am in working with the wools in all of those glorious colours.

    I enjoyed working with the wool in the Nesting Place class and would like to experiment more with wool embroidery.

    82
  69. Happy New Year !
    I would like to win these beautiful threads only because:
    – they are beautiful
    – I need them
    – I have room for them
    – wool threads are magical
    – you can never have too many

    83
  70. I’m not a fan of the 16th century embroidery. But I sure do love these colors. I just love looking at such pretty colors all in a row. And nothing feels better when stitching than good quality threads

    85
  71. I am too new to the wonderful world of embroidery to know whether or not I’m a 16th & 17th century embroidery fan. I am curious, though, to see some of the Taliaferro designs in these colors.

    86
  72. I was really struck by the beautiful colours of these wools. My fingers get itchy – raring to stitch with them – just by looking at them. What a superb collection for anyone’s thread stash! I have stitched using wool but not for quite some time now – maybe I should begin again!

    87
  73. Both! I *adore* Jacobean embroidery and want to do it, and the colors in the giveaway are just gorgeous! I am participating in TAST and CQJP this year,and those would make lovely additions to my work 🙂

    88
  74. I want this range because they’re nice wools in pretty colors, and they would offer the perfect chance to try jacobean embroidery, that is something that I’ve been dying to do.
    Thank you and have a wonderful day!!
    Libertad from Argentina

    89
  75. I am most definitely a fan of the Tudor,Jacobean,Stuart,Georgian styles of embroidery. Imagine if our clothes and furnishings today were embellished in such a way. Embroidery would not be an art form struggling to survive in a hectic word.

    90
  76. I can’t claim to know anything about 16th or 17th century embroidery – so I’m going with the pretty colours. I’m new to crewel and I love it, I’d love these wools so I can get going on more crewel projects once the kit I’m doing is finished

    91
  77. The socks and tam are beautiful but I cannot imagine putting so much time and efforts knitting items only to hide them in boots or coat pockets. So, I would prefer using these pretty colors for embroidery, perhaps a landscape or a bouquet of flowers. Thanks again for these wonderful gifts.

    92
  78. As I have said before, I have not done much handwork lately…but with this wonderful collection of wools, surely it would be an added incentive to start again. I do love the colors but have never worked with this type of threads.

    Debi in MS

    93
  79. Hi Mary,

    They’re BEAUTIFUL! I’m a bit of both – I like the techniques of 16/17th century embroidery, but while I love to look at genuine examples of it, I prefer to stitch somewhat more modern (and in perspective) pieces! So if I won I think I’d use the wools in a project using traditional crewel techniques, but not a traditional crewel picture. It would also be fun to experiment with them using needle-painting although obviously you wouldn’t get the painterly effect of stranded cotton or silk.

    94
  80. Oh, my goodness….these are beautiful! I want them because they are gorgeous colors!

    96
  81. Mary, I would love these because of their beauty and would incorporate them into a crewel or blanket embroidery type project. Have a great New Year

    97
  82. I’m a fan of traditional crewel embroidery, but I love the colors of this collection. I’m also a fan of hand dyed wool. My mother and I did some natural dying and spinning wool together in the early eighties.
    Thanks, again, for giving us an opportunity to try out these gorgeous needlework supplies
    Kathy Pennington

    98
  83. Trop belles ces couleurs on à envie de juste les prendre dans ses mains les toucher les carresser presque les accrocher au mur comme un tableau, mais si j’ai l’énorme chance de les gagner je réaliserait votre coq , il est magnifique et comme je n’ais encore jamais utilisé les fils de laine pour broder se serait un bon début;

    Chère Marie je suis une bonne tricoteuse et j’aime beaucoup tricoter si vous voulez je peux tricoter pour vous gratuitement , je le ferait avec plaisir !!

    99
  84. Hi Mary,

    We don’t get wool threads in my place. I was planning to start a collection during my next trip to Germany. Now I can start with this 🙂 and expand it during my next trip. 🙂

    Regards,
    -Viji.

    100
  85. I absolutely fall into the category of the beautiful colors I have a couple of needlepoint projects that these would look great used on.

    102
  86. I’m having difficulty getting my posts to go through so please forgive me if this is a repeat post.

    I want this range because because they’re nice wools in pretty colors but I love this style too! So hard to choose just one answer. Thanks!

    103
  87. Hi Mary,
    Oh COLOR is what I see – then comes the ideas flowing for use. This is sophisticated color –
    I went on the site you posted and it’s a wondeland. I checked out your PDF of the rooster – yes, I prefer the square version –
    I actually would make the rooster – This, to me, is in the silk thread category of – Beautiful – colorful – a treasure – but certainly a delicate priviledge to own.
    Mary – I am convinced that you are the most generous needleworker – not just now – but all
    of the time. Thank you and many blessings –
    Jane (I found Leah Day the most generous quilter) Do you know of her?

    104
  88. Ooooohhhhhh, Mary … I’m drooling over this one. I’m a fan of Elizabethan embroidery, but I’d love to have this gift most especially because it is BEAUTIFUL! I love the colors. I do a lot of crewel embroidery and it would give me great pleasure to work with these fibers. So, how are you able to part with this? 😮

    By the way, a very happy Eigth Day of Christmas to you. I hope it’s a great one.

    105
  89. Oh, I love to stitch 16th/17th century reproduction items and would love to receive the beautiful wools. Also, I love the colors!

    106
  90. Beautiful colors…..so many possibilities. Jacobean throw pillows come to mind. Just love the texture and colors of anything that is fiber. I have viewed these scissors before through your website and I too also dreamed of owning a pair. Wow, they are just like fine jewelry and yes I would use them for a special project, how else could anyone enjoy them?

    107
  91. Hi Mary, well, i’m both. I think I would do several projects. I’m thinking a beautiful embroidered belt and maybe a drawstring purse. I have made a drawstring bag out of silk and silk ribbon so I am feeling adventurous. Thanks Mary for all the fun giveaways!

    108
  92. Historic fan or color enthusiast? Both levels appeal to me. I like the idea of better understanding which colors were used in the E-era, and the colors in themselves are gorgeous! Would love to have this wool to use in a project…
    -Sharon in France

    109
  93. What gorgeous wools! Thank you, and thanks to Renaissance Dyeing for this special treat.

    Discovering your blog led me to Kathy Andrews’ “The Unbroken Thread,” and I’ve been marveling at her crewel embroideries and the beautiful yarns she uses. That, of course, got me into “me too” mode. It’s been years since I tried my hand at crewel embroidery, but I’ve been hankering to pick it up again. With my theater background I certainly have a love of all things Elizabethan, but mostly I think I fall into the second category of being drawn to the beautiful colors.

    Phyllis

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  94. When I was in college, I did an extensive paper on wool dyeing using mordants and natural dyes. I know what goes into the gathering of the sources to use to make the wonderful colors. I would love to have the opportunity to own some of the beautiful wools you are giving away. What a treasure to behold and have that chance!
    I literally drooled when I saw all the fabulous colors. If I could be chosen for any offerings you are giving all of us, these would be my pick.
    Thank you for all of your Christmas gifts you are giving us the chance to own.

    111
  95. I love the range of colours in this pack. When I stitch the patterns that seem to really catch my eye are those with many colours in it.

    112
  96. Stunning colours! Love the intricate embroidery so prevelant in Elizabethan England. The portraits of the time show remarkable details. But how ironic would it be to use Elizabethan style wool for modern designs

    113
  97. Those colors look amazing! And as a person who does historical reenactment, they would be perfect for an arts & sciences entry.

    114
  98. I think my answer to today’s question is – both: the wools are simply gorgeous colors but also because I have always been drawn to Jacobean Embroidery. So I love the 1600 period works. However, I have had Taliaferro – Royal Persian Blossom Crewel stitch guide on my radar ever since I first saw it on your site back in April. Now that is much older designs, right? medieval I believe, but I immediately thought of doing a Taliaferro design with these wools. I would also want to do a Jacobean pillow cover for my bed…and the Crewel Rooster…and a little pin cushion and …oh darn. Well – I would use them – that’s for sure!
    Mary Ann
    Beacon, New York

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  99. What beautiful wool! I loved your article regarding woad-dying and returned to watch the video more than once. I’m drawn to the lovely natural plant-dyed color, and although I like 16th/17th century embroidery, I have to say it’s the wool that I desire!
    P.S. I agree, Mary. The socks and tam are amazing!

    116
  100. I would love to win this collection because it is so beautiful. I do not have any wool threads and these would surely inspire me to do some crewel work. Thank you Mary for this wonderful and generous give-a-way.

    117
  101. OK OK…because they are pretty but also because I always wanted to try some crewel and this would definitely motivate me! Thanks for the opportunity!

    119
  102. Oh my gosh, what a wonderful prize! I would have to answer “both” — it is gorgeous wool and I love early embroidery work. I am a great fan of Renaissance Dyeing and their threads are wonderful. There is a red wool like no other. It is the strongest finest red I have ever used. Thanks again Mary,

    Shelia in Oklahoma

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  103. Hi Mary – I have been following your blog for months now. I am new to crewel, and your website and videos have been immensely helpful, so thank you for that! In answer to your question, for me it is equal parts both. I am an avid amateur historian and genealogist, and have been able to trace some of my ancestors back to 16th c. England. I love Elizabethan and Jacobean crewel, and have spent hours online drooling over embroideries from the period. As for the nice wools in pretty colors – I am a fiber junkie, and often joke that I took up knitting just as an excuse to work with beautiful yarns and colors! To be able to work with yarns dyed using the same methods as in the 16th-17th centuries is very intriguing to me as it combines my love for history with my love for beautiful fibers!

    121
  104. Yes, I am a fan of Jacobean crewelwork and that is certainly 16th century. I have mental plans for doing draperies for my dining room with the leading edges done in crewel reminiscent of Jacobean design. The flowers would be more realistic than Jacobean but 16th century would be the historical reference point. The colors ARE lovely, too, and I would love to try a new crewel thread.

    122
  105. I am a quilter and have become a big fan of folk art wool quilts. I would love to incorporate these wonderful colors in one of my wool quilts. Thank you for all your effort in putting together this wonderful promotion.

    123
  106. Oh My Mary , what a lovely color range.
    I had these and the woad dyes on my list of wishes!!!
    Thank you for your givawa
    nora jg

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  107. Hi Mary! I’d love to win this wool range – I am taking several historic embroidery classes, and have several projects planned for after they are done. One is a crewel pillow, and one is a klosterstich needle case. I’ve been wanting to learn that for a while, and finally printed out some tutorials. Having the threads on hand would be a huge help!

    Mary Martin
    Houston, TX

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  108. When I was in my 20’s ( now in 60″s) I bought raw sheep wool , washed, , carded , dyed and spun it for weaving and knitting. Wow, what a job it was to clean the bath tub after the washing! I would love to win today’s yarn for the sheer pleasure of just admiring the texture and colours and then move on to perhaps a William Morris design to use it with extreme delight!

    127
  109. I think I would fall into the latter category, although perhaps if I had all these beautiful Elizabethan colours, I might be tempted to try some embroidery from that period. Exploring Elizabethan Embroidery by Dorothy Clark has been a favourite book of mine for many years, but I have only ever done one small motive from it. This would be a perfect opportunity to expand my horizons. Thank you for the wonderful giveaways Mary.

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  110. I would absolutely love this set of wool threads because I have done some crewel work with wool and would love to do much more – I love this range of colors but also the old Victorian and Jacobean embroidery!

    129
  111. Ever since the articles on 16th – 17th century embroidered boxes and the Royal Persian Blossom, I have wanted to buy wool thread to make a sampler and try all the pretty colors. My grandson and I used a hammer to experiment smashing Morning Glorys’ and Marigolds on to white fabric to see if we could preserve the natural color dye. Then I went to a site to learn the right way to dye thread and fabric. LOL

    130
  112. I am definitely not a 16th/17th century embroidery fan but these are lovely yarns. I am curious if all the dyes used are of botanical origin, or not only?

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  113. Another outstanding giveaway, Mary! Thanks to you and Renaissance Dyeing for this chance. I want these threads because I’m a 16-17th century fan AND because they are just luscious!
    Not to mention the historic accuracy with which they are dyed. Thanks again for this fun game!
    Katherine

    132
  114. I must confess that I am an avid admirer of 16th and 17th century wool embroidery. I love the way naturally dyed wools never clash with each other. I love the soft warm glow of wool on crisp linen. I love the diversity of stitches used in that period of time. I love the flowers of the Elizabethan period, and fanciful designs of the Jacobean period. I love the aspect of using historical patterns and wools and making them fit in today’s homes. If I could only embroidery with one kind of thread for the rest of my life it would be wool, on linen of course!

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  115. Oh yes, I really am a 16th / 17th century embroidery fan ! Love those colours… again thanks Mary for the opportunity!!

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  116. I love these yarns. I used to do a lot of crewel and would love to start back again by using these threads to do a 17th century style sampler.

    135
  117. I would love to win them because they are beautiful! I have never used any floss other then DMC & this would be a wonderful way to try a new thread!
    Again, thanks for the opportunity to win such great prizes!!
    Diana in Sioux Falls

    136
  118. What a luscious array of colors. I don’t do 16th/17th century embroidery, but I can visualize these in a fall scene.

    137
  119. Well, I’m certainly no knitter, but these threads are absolutely gorgeous and I would love to have them for embroidery…I love Jacobean! I’m guessing that if they’d be good for hand embroidery/crewel that they would be perfect for needlepoint as well…maybe I’d try them in a little of both. Mary, you have had the best giveaways! Thanks so much.

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  120. Oh wow, Jacobean designs, Jacobbean embroidery (crewel work ala Erica Wilson was my first love), Jacobean clothing . . . all of these are favorites of mine. Once I found myself sketching the design on a lamp when I was away at a book retreat, I use the designs when painting pottery, the rich hues find their way into my quilt designs – oh, I am smitten! So once again, I love these wool threads for both reasons – the elaborate designs that call for color and more color and the color. Hmmm – sounds redundant, doesn’t it!

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  121. What lovely shades! Though I don’t do Elizabethan type embroidery, the threads could be used in more modern style stitching. Just have to use the creative muse!

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  122. I think I am like you – they are just beautiful colors. Although I love the Elizabethan period I still think they are just plain gorgious! I might even try my hand at your rooster. Who knows.

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  123. Hi Mary,
    My reason would be that they are nice wools in pretty colors. Actually they are in beautiful colors. I’m not an expert on 16th century embroidery or dyeing -yet- but these have gotten me interested. I have done some crewel work and would love to try them!
    Thanks so much.
    Vivian M.

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  124. I like anything Jacobean which is a later period than Elizabethan so I will have to say that I would like these wools for the colours.

    143
  125. Hi,

    I love the soft colors of the wool displayed. After checking the website, I did find these are suitable for canvas work which I’m doing more of these days. Not sure what project specifically but think they would be lovely to look at till inspiration hits.

    Violet

    144
  126. Good morning Mary, the wool threads are luscious, I have a Jacobean pattern that I have been wanting to do and these threads would be perfect for it.

    145
  127. Another project would be on the way should these beautiful threads drop into my sock.

    146
  128. In a word: YES!! I’m a total 16th century costume junkie, so more chances for embroidery with beautiful period-correct thread would be fantastic. I’d do something that uses every color, then use whatever was left to make a little swatchbook to compare to when I go fabric shopping.

    147
  129. What a fabulous colour range! I do like crewel embroidered items and while I have done very little in the past I have just started to get back into it by ordering a very special kit. I am a person who loves colour and texture. They speak to me!! I would love to have this very special gift. How fortunate you are to have so many suppliers of quality donating to this worthy process you are doing.

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  130. These are very nice wools in beautiful colors! Everything you are giving away is so-o-o beautiful!!! These wools would be so nice to win as well as any of the other items you are giving. Thank you.

    149
  131. I love the gorgeous colors. As I posted on an earlier day, crewel embroidery is what got me started on my needlework journey. I can definitely see some new dining room chair covers with these gorgeous threads!!!!

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  132. I would like to win the range of crewel wool for the both reasons: I love jacobean embroidery and the colors of these threads are gorgeous.
    Thank you for your giveaway, it makes me dream these last days

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  133. I have made one project with the wool thread. I love the feel and brilliant colors of the wool thread. The range of colors sets my mind to dream of many projects that you have aired on your website. Thanks for the chance to own such a fine gift.

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  134. I am totally in love with the beautiful colors of this wool! It doesn’t make that much of a difference to me how that color got there, but the idea of doing an authentic historical piece is very interesting now that you mention it…

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  135. Well! This is a wonderful way to start a Happy New Year — happyness, good health, peace, good will and the ability to do more of my favorite embroidery. What wonderful colors these are. I have done some Elizabethan crewel and it is difficult to see, touch, and explore all of the wonderful yarns beyond the “basics”. Would be thrilled to have them.
    Have a wonderful “second day of the new year”.

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  136. Ooooh,
    As an avid recreator of 16th and 17th Century period
    apparel and such I LOVE these colors! I was so excited
    to hear about Renaissance dyeing and their products.
    Wish I could own it all! Yum.

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  137. Besides loving the colors purely because they are beautiful, my son and his girlfriend are Renaissance Fair participants. While they are not reenactors, they do enjoy dressing up in period costume while visiting the fairs. The items they wear are homemade and very plain. It would be wonderful to make them new costumes with crewel embroidery using the threads from Renaissance Dying. Thank you Mary and Renaissance Dying for this generous giveaway.

    I have to admit, when I originally read the posting on woad dying, I thought it would be fun to try. After reading it again, I appreciate the technique, but I think it would be fun for someone else to try.

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  138. Oh my, oh my! I would be thrilled to win this selection of colors mainly because naturally dyed colors speak to me louder than synthetic colors. It’s not that synthetic colors aren’t beautiful… all colors have their beauty no matter the source. It’s just that, to me, it’s kind of the difference between music on a record vs. a CD; or film vs. digital photos. Both are beautiful, but to my eye, one has more heart and the other less. I have tried my own experiments with natural dyeing, but don’t really have the kind of space that allows working with them as I live in a small city apartment and must rely on others to do that kind of dyeing for me. Sigh.

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  139. I think both colors and history that goes along with the making of these give the wool more meaning. I know when I look at the crewel
    pictures my grandmother stitched I think of the wool that was used and how it has lasted all these
    years.
    Avis in VA

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  140. Could I say, I would absolutely use these gorgeous threads ( thank you so much for introducing the company) for a nineteenth century piece, rather than an earlier period.

    We just moved to North Carolina from Southern California and are planning to build a nineteenth century replica saltbox house (which will be completely earth friendly) but the inside will hopefully look like “hearth and home” with needlework abounding. =)

    Thanks for the fun!

    Cindi

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  141. I would love these threads because of there beautiful colors. As I said in my last post, I collect chickens. I would love to try your rooster pattern. I have saved every email on that project for future reference. Like when or if I can get the threads.

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  142. Mary, your links take me on unplanned adventures and I feel like I’ve been on vacation. Thank you! Though I have a strong interest in 16th century embroidery, I really love the colors.

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  143. oh those are beautiful and I want them because they’re nice wools in pretty colors!! 🙂

    thanks for another lovely giveaway!

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  144. I always have been fascinated by the rich textures, fabrics and needlework of the Elizabethan age. What I was most astonished to learn is that crewelwork was not solely an object of beauty in that period; rather, it was also to help protect the fabric from wear. When I look at these luscious wool threads, it transports me to a day and time when only a lucky few were able to afford such luxury. And it inspires me to want to recreate a pillow or foot stool or seat cover in the spirit of the Elizabethan period. These wool threads would be a marvelous jumpstart to my project — and it would provide me a little virtual time travel, as well!

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  145. I am an avid knitter and would love to make a lace shawl using two strands of the crewel wool, as suggested in the Renaissance Dyeing website. The colors are beautiful!

    167
  146. 16th / 17th Century Ecclesiastical work is amazing. I’m ever so grateful when people find/restore/share historical pieces with those of us who study particular eras. While I’m in awe of today’s designers (a “completely blank canvas” is NOT my thing!), I also love studying the designs and techniques of the past. It’s a tactile connection to our heritage,and it is extremely comforting — and invigorating at the same time.

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  147. Hi Mary,

    When I first started stitching, wool was the
    fiber to use and it has always remained my
    choice. I would love to win these wool threads, I love the colors.

    Teri Sanfilippo

    170
  148. How soothing color/textures are to my soul! Just admiring these threads brings joy! Crewel work was my first love and these threads are tempting me to return to my stitching roots. Thank you for the memories, and the opportunity to own these beautiful threads.

    Honey in Philly

    171
  149. Hi Mary,

    Natural fibers, beautiful shades that blend together so perfectly what a treat these would be to use for my stitching. I have done some crewel work and would love the chance to use this wonderful palette of colors.

    Thank you for another great gift set.

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  150. The colors are so YUMMY!! I want hold them and caress them! Oh my gosh!! I want these because they are nice wool in pretty colors! Though I have to admit the 16th/17th era aspect is pretty interesting too. These are so gorgeous I’ll be dreaming of flowers.

    174
  151. Hello: I really need to broaden my thread supply. I love crewel work and do like the colors alot. Not often am I able to get what I really need to do a project right, usually I compromise and use regular threads. What a great day it would be if I could use my crewel books with real crewel thread and do a project. Thanks, Paula.

    175
  152. I would love to win this range both because I’m a 16th / 17th century embroidery fan and because they’re nice wools in pretty colors. I really want to expand my embroidery skills, and these lovely wools would certainly encourage that! Thank you, Mary!

    176
  153. The colours are stunning, but the mention of that rooster, as you say, way back then, that’s what did it for me. That little rooster has been on my TO DO list for a loooong time, maybe it’s time to let him crow!

    177
  154. Love the colors. These would look beautiful on my new crazy quilt!! The various shades are just gorgeous.
    Gail

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  155. I do not see me making a 16th century bed coverlet. I would like to try my hand again at using wool thread.

    Would love to work on a Jacobean embroidery piece and play with these threads and all the lovely colors.

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  156. I want them because of the beautiful colors. I have been wanting to try crewel work but I’m not big on ordering things from the Internet and I do t know of anywhere near me to get something like this so winning this would be so nice!

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  157. I must admit that I love the colors. But then I’ve never had the opportunity to work with wool so I would love to try it. I’m pretty much a novice but am open to trying and would love the chance!

    182
  158. I love natural fibers and these wools are yummy. I also love the elaborate designs of the 16th and 17th centuries but would use the wools for something more less elaborate.

    183
  159. I was fascinated by your article on woad dyeing–a plant I never heard of before in English or in French 🙂 (le pastel), and I am from south of St-Paul-Cap-de-Joux–so I hope to visit it next time I go home! I would love the wool because I started a large tapestry painting (buffalo hunt) and ran out of wools when our embroidery store closed. With these wools I would be motivated to finish it. Thanks for all this. Jackie

    184
  160. Hi Mary
    Interesting project material and I had a look at the socks and tam – I used to knit all my husbands socks but all in one colour though but the hand washing became such a chore that I decided to buy socks so have not done it for some time. I would rather stitch with the wool I think as that sock and tam project was also in my mind really expensive – beautiful but expensive!! Yes I will fall into the luv the colours catagory! Thanks again, Eleanor Isle of Man

    185
  161. I would have to say I am a fan of the 16th and 17th century work. Women of this time created such wonderful things.

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  162. Another wonderful give away! I admit I am attracted to the beautiful colors and that it is wool just adds a bonus.

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  163. Another wonderful gift offer–thank you so much. I would like to have these because they are beautiful yarns and it’s so very hard to find nice crewel yarns where I live. I am working on a crewel project right now. It’s a class I’m taking at my embroidery guild. The teacher had to go to Dallas (abt. 1.5 hrs away) to get the yarns for us as they weren’t available here.

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  164. As I am not English, I know only a few things about Elizabethan style, so I fall into second category: I love the colors. It would be nice to use them in a new project.

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  165. To be perfectly honest, I would have to say yes to both parts of your question. Love some of the needle works done in the 16th/17th century, they are so detailed. And of course I love the colors. What even makes this more appealing is that natural dyes.

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  166. I would love to have these yarns because of rainbow of colors you’d have to work with. Absolutely stunning!

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  167. WOW! Jacobean is my best and this wool is lovely and the shade so nice. Thank you Mary.Louise Québec

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  168. I am definitely in category two. I love the colors and texture of wool embroidery. Many of my quilting friends have started making little applique quilts of felted wool. If I had these delicious colors, I might just give wool applique a try myself. Yum!

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  169. Morning Mary!
    Oh my, how pretty!! I do like the 16th/17th century needlework, but for me, it’s all about the colors. They are gorgeous and right up my alley.

    196
  170. I love the colors. They remind me of some Res Naturae wools I have for a crewel project in progress. I have done a little Jacobean style crewel but am still rather new to this work,

    198
  171. I love the beautiful wool colors, but I am also a fan of good historical reenactment. I’d love to make an Elizabethan pocket with these.

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  172. Hi Mary,
    Wow…this is a spectacular gift! I would like to win these wool threads because they are just gorgeous & because I have never worked with wool. I’ve been thinking about crewel work because I love Jacobean patterns & this would be a nice way to get started. Thank you,
    Sheila K in CA

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  173. I am afraid I wold fall into the latter category myself, they are just pretty. I have not done a lot crewel work in recent years but would love the opportunity to pick it up again as soon as I finish my silk and metallic thread embroidery project.

    201
  174. I just love wool and working with wool. I have never worked with this wool, although I would really like to try using it. I also love that it is dyed naturally. I love Jacobean embroidery and have done several pieces in this style.
    Sharon K.

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  175. I have in the past dyed wool I had spun, but never for embroidery, and I have just the right piece I am about to work in a Jacobean pattern. With pomegranites, leaves and a Wyvern I could use all the colours without straying into modern tones. A lovely gift to woo us with.

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  176. That’s what I love about your site – the little bits of history I learn while I’m oggling the pretty threads. I would definitely classify myself as a ‘pretty colors!’ person.
    And I remember that crewel rooster and all the problems he caused. Happy to see him again!

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  177. These wools would be wonderful for crewel work but I winder if they could be used for tapestry like needlepoint. I am working on a master craftsman designation in canvas work and would be interested in trying these wools in one of the designs I have to create.

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  178. Very beautiful colors! No problem finding something to do with these. Haven’t used wool in a very long time so that would be nice.

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  179. I want this thread because it is such yummy colors. I did crewel embroidery until Brazilian took over my passion; the thread would inspire me to do some crewel work again.

    209
  180. My sister turned me on to your site. She does beautiful hand embroidery as well as machine embroidery. I have saved every e-mail I receive from you telling myself I will have a fantastic resource to use when I’m ready to get started teaching myself to embroider. When I saw all the beautiful choice of colors in the lambs wool yarn and my desire to start a simple project which I thought would be a pillow done in a chain stitch pattern (Still looking for the pattern I would like to start). I could not resist sending you a note. Even if I don’t win the prize I just wanted to thank you for inspiring me.

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  181. These are certainly beautiful. I would like to try using them in my crazy quilting and since I’m also a knitter, it would be fun to try experimenting with them.

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  182. happy New Year, Mary.

    I would love to have the wool threads because of the colors and quality. I have printed alot of your PDF patters and would love to give one a try with these beautiful colors.

    Louise

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  183. Both. I’ve always loved traditional Jacobean embroidery and these are gorgeous colors. Happy New Year to you, Mary! Janet.

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  184. Hi Mary, Your 12 days of Christmas have been fun! My answer to your question is both! I also love using Renaissance wool.

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  185. Hi Mary,

    I do like the 16th/17th embroidery but like you the color attrack me more.

    Thank you. I wish you all the best for 2012.

    Francoise Y. Beauchamp
    Mafyb Créations Textiles
    Bois-des-Filion, Québec, Canada

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  186. They are beautiful colors and I do like 16th and 17th embroidery and would love to become an expert in embroidery like you!

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  187. Mary,
    Who could resist these lovely colors? I would try Jacobean work just to use these. Wow, are they pretty. I recently was given a book of Jacobean transfers (iron on, I think), so with these lovely threads I would just have to start one of them, don’t you think?
    Happy New Year to you,
    Vicki W., Ironwood, Michigan in the middle of a great snow storm today

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  188. How about..All of the Above. Love 16/17th C embroidery and love the amazing colors. Ok, probably I love the 16th C embroidery more..such amazing technique and detail..perhaps because time pressures were different at that time…but then again, life expectancy was shorter..hhmm…ok..magnificant colors wins out!

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  189. Well, I do have to admit that these are some wonderful wool threads. Gorgeous colors and I am sure that they would be great to work with. I could find many uses for them! Not sure if I would try the Jacobean patterns or not……!

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  190. Both! I love the natural approach to these yarns. The history and information is fascinating. On the other hand, the sight of these hues spread out across the spectrum is relaxing and inspiring at the same time.

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  191. I have a project I’ve been designing that is 16-17th century and plan to use gold and wool or silk. These wools are to “dye” for. Of all the 12 days this is the best.

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  192. Hi Mary,
    I’m really not after “brownie points” here but I actually fall into both your question categories. I think the color range for the wools is wonderful and I also am involved in historical demonstrations here in Va. Demonstrating hand spinning,embroidery and bobbin lace making at several museum venues! So these wools would be a welcome and well used prize 🙂

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  193. I love these colors. I started crewel embroidery from a kit I bought from the Avon lady, nearly forty years ago. It was a take anywhere hobby, and I did take it anywhere, especially when I had overnight duty (CQ) in the barracks, overseas. I am especially fond of Jacobean patterns.

    224
  194. One of my gifts for Christmas was a book on “English Crewel Designs” – I believe they span several centuries, so the answer is “yes” with a touch of “no” (because they are just really pretty colors!)

    225
  195. OOOhhh,pretty! “My” colors (and “my” fiber, too!). I long worked with restorations and maybe my color sense harks back to there, but either way these are both old and current favorites and this is an especially nice range. They are luscious indeed.

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  196. I’m a fan of 16 th and century needlework plus it is a beautiful range of colors.

    Thank you!

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  197. I have been buying threads similar to these one skein at a time. I’ve always used DMC,(still have some of my Mother’s), yarn from the sale shelf and some I find at needlework shop sales. I would like to have some that match so I could use patterns I have saved through the years and never done because they deserve to be done with the right materials.

    228
  198. I like the colors and the wool thread BUT although I have never done this type of stitching, I would like to try it.

    229
  199. Yes, the colors & the feel !!! It is inspiring to review Renaissance website. The socks should be worn without shoes to display their full glory.
    Thanks to you, Mary, for your sharing of information and enthusiasm.
    Thanks to Renaissance for their products and for sharing.

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  200. I want them, I want them, I neeeeed them!!
    I have so many projects in mind and the colours are beautiful. I’ve got a confession – I’ve got the whole range of DMC threads and sometimes spend hours (well, you know what I mean!) just looking at them!! Take care………..Sue – Good Old Blighty

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  201. Hi Mary, The wools are beautiful! I have done quite a bit of crewel work and love it. I can think of many different uses for the wool collection.Thank you.

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  202. What a beautiful range of colors of wool!! I love the feel of wool in my hands. I am interested in the 16th and 17th century designs, but haven’t any experience making them yet since I am a beginner. Color! Texture! The love of handwork! These are my motivations!
    Thanks for the opportunity, Jenny P. from Kansas City

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  203. I am a great fan of coverlet embroidery and have completed three so far. I have not attempted Jacobean embroidery but would love to as my next project. I have a coverlet sheet ready to be embroidered. Looking forward to receive this eight day of Christmas kit in beautiful colours.
    Thanks
    Dorothy

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  204. I was surfing the web hoping to find patterns to match those found on the curtains in one of America’s historic treasures, Casa del Herrero, Montecito CA. I found some on the Needlenthread website and was delighted to see the array of colors offered on this 8th day of Christmas. Lovely and appropriate for my task at hand.

    235
  205. I would like to win these wools because they are such nice wools in such pretty colors, and I don’t have any wools in my thread stash. I don’t have much variety in my threads as yet because I got interested in embroidery about 6months ago and didn’t know where to find such varieties. These are beautiful! Thank you, Mary, for this opportunity.

    Cheryl in San Diego

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  206. Ooh, the colors, the colors! Knowing how they are achieved just might tempt my all-things-RenFest daughter into trying her hand at embroidery. . . . But for myself, it’s the collection of colors, for sure.

    Happy New Year!

    Marilyn P. in Las Cruces, New Mexico

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  207. I am entralled with stitching from the 17th century. But, probably more from the 18th century. (I Don’t really know about 16th century, I don’t think.) Since I want to start something new, I would love to win anything you put up and then there would be a place to begin.

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  208. I’d like to win the wools because they are such pretty colors. Also because I’ve only used merino wool for embroidery and would like to see the difference between merino wool and lambswool.

    Thank-you for offering this giveaway and Happy New Year to you. Hugs.

    239
  209. I’m with Sue on this one…OOOH! I want them! I neeeed them! After all, what else would I spend hours rubbing my face on? (Besides the cat, who doesn’t always appreciate being rubbed on…)

    They are just plain GORGEOUS. I wouldn’t know 16-17C needlework if it bit me, so I’m definitely in category #2–they’re gloriously harmonious and one heck of a great start on crewel materials!

    Already plotting bunnies in those colors…and flowers to go with, of course.

    Mary, you are an enabler of the highest and finest caliber!

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  210. These are beautiful wools that I’m sure would add extra joy to the working of any crewel project.

    241
  211. I personally love the colors. I have not tried this type of stitching before. This would be a great opportunity to try something new for the new year.

    242
  212. Hi Mary!
    The wools are absolutely gorgeous. I am a fan of natural dyeing and I love the “people” element of history. It really makes our history come alive!
    However, I have to admit that if the colors weren’t wonderful then I wouldn’t have been so interested. So, label me as both your options plus one (a natural dyer, too).
    Loving this give-away and have a Very Very happy New Year!

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  213. I have yet to find a good needlework shop in my area, so I often feel as if I am missing out on fun threads like these that can’t be found in a Michaels or a Joanns. These threads sound like they would be a dream to work with, and I am quite curious about historical methods of sewing, embroidery, and the like. Happiest of holidays to you and thanks for the interesting articles and fabulous givaways!

    245
  214. How about because I’m totally in awe of and dazzled by the colors, by the stories behind them, by the artistic inspiration this company offers, and the bit of cheeky humor tucked in as well.

    246
  215. I am a history buff, especially for the Tudor period which makes for a good partnership with the embroidery of the period.

    247
  216. Wow, what beautiful colours!!! I have to admit I just love working with colours, and that is why I use all sorts of threads to create beautiful pieces of art. Thanks for the opportunity to win these skeins of wool. I hope I win. It would be a fantastic way to start off the New Year.

    248
  217. Oh, those colors make me swoon! I have been using Appleton wool on a project, but reading about other brands, and the Renaissance wools sound luscious!

    249
  218. Happy Eighth Day of Christmas!

    I have to admit that I “WOAD” love to have these yarns. Ever since the article from last summer telling the story of the woad dye, I get a chuckle thinking about these. I spent the weekend delving into 16th and 17 century Elizabethan and Jacobean embroidery. I’m rethinking the large central motif on my current ecclesiastical project and considering using wool threads. The color range would be perfect.

    Thanks for such a fun event!

    250
  219. I would love just to be able to handle these wools and to enjoy the beautiful colors.

    251
  220. Well, I fall in the 2nd category, but they are so truly beautiful. I’ve done some Crewel embroidery (My very first project was Crewel), but I would like to use these for another project – I’m doing a wool Crazy Quilt, so these threads would be wonderful on it! Anyway Mary, Happy New Year to you!

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  221. I would like them because they are lots of pretty colors. I have a wedding gift to make and would love to be able to use them to make it.

    253
  222. Oohlala…….these threads are beautiful! I have done a small amount of natural dyeing for knitting but to have some threads naturally dyed for needlework – what a thrill that would be! The colours are beautiful.

    254
  223. Sometimes I see something that makes me say Yes! I need that. The colors of these wools hit that button. They are beautiful!

    255
  224. Hi Mary,

    Thank you for your tips and give aways.

    I would love to have those wools because in my part of the world we do not have access to a variety of wools and they indeed do look very pretty.

    Regards,

    Anju

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  225. When I was working outside the home I would pick up threads just because they were pretty or felt wonderful when I touched them. I think silks and wool silk blends are my absolute favorites.
    I have to admit I’m probably not a 16th/17th century embroidery fan at least from the stitching perspective. I love looking at examples of all stitching no matter when it was created, but for actual stitching I prefer more modern traditional pieces.
    I

    257
  226. Nice wools in pretty colors…and could so see using them to do some very traditional flowers!

    258
  227. I like to look at the 16/17th century embroidery but I must admit I love the range of colors best. They are very pretty.

    259
  228. These wools are so wonderful!!! I’m a fan of anything historical, but I would love these wools for themselves too! THank you for the opportunity of knowing about them!

    260
  229. I’m like you Mary I love these wools because of the beautiful colours…These threads can be used in more than just in 16th 17th century embroidery…hat beautiful colours they are scrumptious…
    Thanks for the opportunity once again to win these beautiful threads…

    261
  230. Oh, these wools are beautiful. I’m just discovering the range/variety in crewel embroidery and would love to try these on a new project. On the other hand, I have taken numerous courses/classes in Elizabethan embroidery and these wools would work there. I’m envisioning an Elizabethan motif (fruit or insect) stitched in these wools for some sort of “small” — ornament, needle book cover, etc. So, I think I’m leaning in that direction — I’d love them because of the color range.

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  231. I have done several pieces in crewel embroidery. I would like to try and design a piece utilizing all the wool provided. The colors look gorgeous and would so much fun to work with
    Beryl B

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  232. I’m with you – I have no particular project in mind, but I can’t resist a rainbow!!

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  233. I am proud to admit that I love this range because its nice wool in pretty colors! As an avid knitter, I love a good bit of wool, and I’ve always wanted to try crewel embroidery (up to now I’ve stuck to cotton) so this would be a great chance to start! Thanks!

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  234. An embroidery fanatic from the Netherlands, I would love to get my hands on these lovely wool threads. My embroidery is not Elizabethan, but Skandinavian

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  235. Very intersting that someone take time to put together colors with an historic reference. I don’t have the chance to study real old peace to collect information to have those colors. It can be a wonderfull reference for futur works. Good idea. Thank you.

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  236. Ooooo the beautiful colors. The first thing I do when I go into a new needlework shop is wander the perimeter and just enjoy all the colors. The feeling is that “I want one of each, please”. It’s the same thing with fabric shops. So it’s colors for me, but I also do crewel work.

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  237. I would love to win these wools—-the colots are so beautiful and just want to be caressed

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  238. Mary,
    I would love this collection, not only to do crewel work, but also just to have and admire these beautiful threads. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity.

    272
  239. Love the colors, but I would love this to do a stomacher for a Living history gown. I just finished a crewel work pocket and was contemplating another crewel project. These colors would be amazing to use.

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  240. The colours of course. It’s always about the colour. Even if nothing is ever made, looking at the colours is enough. Touching them, holding them, dreaming them – it’s always about the colour. I do like the old though. And I have to say I kind of enjoy working with colour more than just looking at it but if I couldn’t work the yarn, if my hands couldn’t do it anymore I’d still like looking. My fingers are itching already!

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  241. I love the color range. It would be so much fun to work a project with them.
    I also like the antique needlework, and it is nice to have the colors preselected!
    Thanks, Sandi

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  242. I love the Renaissance, but I would have to say that I would love the wool for the wool itself, not just because of the color scheme. I can envision using these on some of the designs you have on your website. Great giveaway! Thanks.

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  243. Hi Mary,

    I’m a knitter so I love wool yarns. I especially today’s gift because the colors are so beautiful. It would be great fun to work with these yarns.

    And thanks for letting us know about this wonderful web site.

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  244. Oooooh, I just love the pretty colors!! They look like they’d be so much fun to work with.

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  245. I would love these wools as hand dyed wools produce such gorgeous colours, they look so natural and always tone in well. I do also enjoy wool embroidery.

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  246. i really believe it’s the colors. quite a bit i will see an elizabethan piece and be drawn to it. i’ll think that would be nice to make, but on furthur inspection i realize it’s the colors that first caught my eye. i do love crewel work and still have your rooster on my want to make list. it’s a beautiful collection. thank you so much for the chance.

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  247. Why would I love to have these threads? What’s not to love about crewel embroidery? And I have never tried this brand of thread and would love to do the crewel rooster.
    Thanks for the fun “Twelve Days”.
    Louise B.

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  248. The colours are stunning, but I’m a history nut, and have always loved the Tudor and Stuart periods. Having seen the Jacobean crewel wall hangings on the EGA blog, I think I’d want to combine them into a coverlet. What a fun project! Loving the 12 days of Christmas, thank you Mary.

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  249. So I have to say that I fall into both categories….my color preferences are in line with those that are seen here…..and I have always loved the designs and color schemes of this era. I would love to work with wool, usually too afraid to make the investment and I stick with DMC….but still get some great results. Thanks again for the 12 Days! Each day so far has been a great item(s).

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  250. How exciting. It is thru your knowledge that I have heard of these threads. Such an awesome opportunity to incorpoate these lovely threads in our projects. Thank you Mary. I look forward every day to opening your blog.
    Karen NC

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  251. I’ll admit it…I am greedy. I HAVE TO WIN these yarns. They are spectacular! I love, love, love Jacobean designs and have been wanting to do several pieces for my entryway. This gift would make it possible for me to do more than I imagined. The colors are beautiful and I can only dream about how they feel and how they would be to stitch with.

    287
  252. Dear Mary, I love crewelwork and have worked several pieces using other brands of wool, but I have never used Renaissance Wools. The colour range looks fantastic and it would be wonderful to win some of the yarns so I could try them on a new piece of work. Thank you for the opportunity.
    Barbara, UK

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  253. Hi Mary,
    Oh my, oh my………this is the one!!!! Yes I am a Jacobean Crewel Work enthusiast PLUS surface embroidery of many kinds…….so yes, I can see these colours in so many designs! I would love to win these marvelous threads. Thank you again for turning us on to a new source for materials too, I have bookmarked their website already.
    Dottie J.

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  254. Pretty colors…(say it like you’re watching fireworks). I do appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into handmade items such as hand dyed wools. I am intrigued by crewel work. I think it’s the swirlyness, grandeur and rich colors. It often incorporates wildlife too. This year I would like to start creating crewel projects. Nesting Place gave me the opportunity to work with wools for the first time and found wool to be quite enjoyable to work with. It’s forgiving and blends beautifully. This gift from Renaissance Dyeing would be a dream to have.

    Thank you,

    Wendi

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  255. Colors are gorgeous. I fall into the “general” category but would love to explore the “historical.

    291
  256. Hi Mary!
    Wow! You truly are outdoing yourself! I enjoy 16/17th century, however I just LOVE the colors and would be soo excited to use these in a project I have been saving…a crewel rooster for a friend. :)Thank you for the opportunity.
    Blessings,
    Jen B in Oregon

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  257. It’s both the colors and the quality of the yarn. I always struggle with knowing good quality before I use it – so I really like your endorsements! I don’t think I could do a Jacobean bed coverlet, but I would like to try a Jacobean piece and this yarn will give me the supply! Thanks so much and Happy New Year! Sharon C. Bethel,CT

    295
  258. Wow! You have done it again. I have been longing to use a wool thread on my soon to be Jacobean wall hanging (it is in the design stage). My desire is to learn how to use wool threads and this would be a great opportunity.

    Jane
    Georgia Gal

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  259. hello,
    My english is very bad, so I prefer say it in french, hoping that the automatic translator makes a approximatively understandable work.
    j’ai découvert la broderie à la laine sur toile de lin il y a un peu moins d’un an: J’ai trouvé par hasard une copie d’un morceau de la tapisserie de Bayeux à broder. Problème : je n’avais ni les fils, ni les couleurs, ni la technique. Après quelques recherches, j’ai trouvé une boutique à Bayeux même où j’ai pu apprendre le point de Bayeux, ou point viking, et acheter la laine nécessaire. Pour les couleurs, je me réfère à la livre reproduisant la tapisserie, mais c’est assez difficile, car elle a près de 1000 ans, et les coloris ont parfois bien palis, et il y a eu pas mal de restaurations, pas toujours très heureuse.
    j’aime bien ce type de broderie, même si la laine sur le lin est beaucoup moins douce que du coton à broder ou de la soie.
    Le seul défaut de cette tapisserie, c’est qu’elle n’utilise que 8 couleurs, ce qui est un peu frustrant, et votre gamme de couleurs me donne envie d’essayer d’autres motifs.
    J’espère que vous voudrez bien m’excuser d’écrire en français, et je comprendrais très bien que vous ne puissiez pas retenir ma candidature, car il est couteux et hasardeux d’envoyer un colis de chez vous vers la France
    Cordialement
    Isabelle from France

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  260. I absolutely LOVE Jacobean embroidery. I have been fascinated with it since I was a kid. The colors, the way things flow together – it’s just a treat for the eye. I think these would be great for a couple projects I have been thinking about taking up. Thank you so much for the opportunity to win a gorgeous set. (I’m also a renaissance fair fan so that doesn’t hurt either – LOL)

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  261. I love looking at the 17/18th century pieces but have no immediate plans to do crewel. However, I recently inherited crewel pieces done by my grandmother. So, it might be nice to do something to hang next to hers. And, these threads would be great start to that project.

    300
  262. Wow! What gorgeous colours! I am a fan of 16th century embroidery – The Plymouth Jacket! I have the PFD and look at it on a regular basis, the work is amazing!
    I have never tried crewel work but as with anything stitch I would LOVE to try! The fact that these yarns are naturally produced is a real boon too!
    Thank you Mary for another great give a way!

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  263. I am not yet familiar with the embroidery of the 16th and 17th centuries but the wool is beautiful. Crewel piques my interest and the fibers are so beautiful. It would be great to have them to try!

    Thanks!

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  264. I would love to have these threads just because they are beautiful and I am sure I can find a great project in which to use these threads.

    303
  265. It’s all about the pretty colors. Wouldn’t a wool lap blanket be pretty embroidered in these threads?

    Carole Krause

    304
  266. I would use these gorgeous wools to embroider a period jacket for a 16th century costume. My lace guild does demonstrations at various museums in the Ottawa area and I am working on a costume. I have the shift and cap made (handsewn) and embellished with torchon. I have the material for the skirt and waist. My grandfather wove linen that I will use for the apron, but I still had no idea what to do for the jacket. These would be perfect.

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  267. What luscious colors1 I love that they are naturally dyed and would love to do a Jacobean or early Penn. Dutch design with some of them. But after just handling and admiring them for awhile first! Thank you, again and again, for sharing your passion.

    306
  268. I have two unfinished 17th Century Samplers, one English and one Scottish, and would love the wools in the colors of the time to complete it. Thanks again for having this give-away.

    307
  269. Beautiful wool makes even a simple Jacobean design elegant. I would make it up into a tree of life using acorns and oak leaves…mmmm

    308
  270. Hello, Mary. I would love these simply because they are so beautiful. I wonder if they would be suitable for knitting… I think so.

    309
  271. I’m not sure what I would use thaws wools for. I’ve never liked crewel work because of the poor quality of the wool. Granted, I haven’t done any crewel work in years and I would love to see if the wool has improved any. Who knows, I might find another technique I’d have to do!

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  272. I would love these threads because of the colors. I’m not too “historical” but these colors are lovely.

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  273. the colors are absolutely beautiful. I would love to use them on an extensive bedcovering I am thinking about doing. Thank you for all of you gifts. Happy New Year

    312
  274. I admit it…it’s the lovely colors I like. Just like a child I’d love to just touch them and feel them and play with them in their skeins awhile before playing on fabric.

    Playing with threads is like playing with Barbie’s for adults. You get them out of their cases, arrange them in different ways, play with trying them in different “clothes” or combinations. What fun.

    Alice in Las Cruces

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  275. I would love these. Having the whole range would be great, just because they are such beautiful colors!

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  276. The colors are luscious. My favorite needlework shop in Los Angeles (closed now, alas) had hundreds of beautiful threads and yarns — silk, cotton, wool. I used to stop by and just OD on the beautiful array. Heavenly!

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  277. Good morning Mary,
    Happy Eighth day of Christmas.
    I would love to win anything almost.. But No, i am not necessarily a particular lover of the 16/17 the century stuff, but i do appreciate any
    needlework history. However, one is blind not to see those are beautiful colors despite the century they are from!!!
    I would like to win just because they are great wools!
    and yes, you should learn to KNIT!!
    Have a Happy Day!
    Chris

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  278. Ok, it’s the stunning colors! But almost as much, it’s the fact that its a natural dyeing peocess with which they’re made. I yearn to work with these!!!

    317
  279. I would LOVE this wool. I reenact a late 15th century personna and this would be wonderful to make examples for the classes that I teach.

    318
  280. I want the wool because they are so pretty. Not sure what I would use them for but I know they’d lead to plentyof daydreaming time.

    319
  281. I’ve just become intrigued with Elizabethan-style Jacobean embroidery after looking through a number of older texts on the Antique Patterns website. I even actually purchased a pattern book over the holiday weekend and have already transferred a simple design to practice with. How’s that for enthusiasm! However, I don’t have any threads suitable for crewel work yet, so this give away would be ideal.

    Thank you so much for hosting these 12 Days of Christmas. Your site is fabulous!

    Sue U

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  282. I’d put it this way – I could become a fan of 16th-17th century embroidery just based on the gorgeous colors!! Those knitting patterns are absolutely beautiful too – I tend to not usually do those intricate patterns but those colors (again) would bribe me into it!

    321
  283. I love the colors! I’m interested in history and would love to do several pieces, but my hands are considering a coup!

    322
  284. Tough question. First, I do love the rainbow of luscious colors in this give away – who doesn’t? But second, there are several colors in this grouping that would work well for some of the animals on a reproduction sampler I’m hoping to get started this year (Charlotte Clayton Sampler). If I were to win these “wooly wonders”, I’d sure put them to good use!

    Darlene Gorczyca
    Lake Stevens, WA

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  285. Well, my main focus is 18th and 19th centuries, but I adore historical stuff. I’m not 100% accurate yet (and probably will never fully be), but I appreciate places that help give us the knowledge and tools we need to achieve our goals. Bravo to them!

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  286. I neer had the luxury to embroider with hand dyed crewel wool. They look to be fun to embroider and dream with.
    Esther B

    325
  287. I am a fan of the old Jacobean embroideries. I would love to have this wool thread and create a picture in true Jacobean style and colors. So far, all my crewel work has been from kits, and none of them thrill me like the original items.

    326
  288. The beautiful colours. A superb range! I love crewel embroidery and it would be such fun to work with these wonderful colours.
    Thanks Mary for giving me the opportunity to dream!
    Lea S

    327
  289. I think these fabulous colors are perfect for Bargello embroidery, but I love your Crewel Rooster to.

    328
  290. Hello from the Pacific Northwest,
    I love wool – I love to sew with it, I love to knit with it, and I love to embroider with it (wool blanket). It is a fantastic fiber and very forgiving. In this case I love the colors. They are just awesome.

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  291. Mary, thank you once again. Not only am I appreciating your generosity, but also am learning so much from your site. I have recommended it to others as well.

    I am one of those who loves the beautiful colours of the wools and look forward to creating something of beauty from them.

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  292. I never embroidered using wool. But I like the coverage it gives. And the nice clors. Elizabathen range ad autumn colors are really good in wool.

    331
  293. I am definitely in the latter camp. The colors are breathtaking and I’d love to add them to my collection. Thank you for hosting such fun giveaways!

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  294. Good morning,
    What pretty colours! Since that is my first thought, I guess I belong firmly to the camp that likes pretty colours! It would also be nice to try out stitching with another brand of crewel wool. Which wool that I have used would it be most like? I bet the “girls” in my crewel class would like to see this prize.

    333
  295. Oh, because they’re nice colors and would be wonderful to stitch with. And the possiblities—-! Need I say more? Thank you, Mary. Yours is the one blog that I read everyday.

    334
  296. O.K. you got me. I just want them as they are nice wools and beautiful colors. I think they would make something yummy. Thanks

    335
  297. Both! Actually, I haven’t embroidered with wool before, but I have several projects that I was thinking about. This would help. It is so expensive when you try to learn a new type of embroidery!

    336
  298. I love working with wool…..and while I will use it for purposes other than creating a 16th century coverlet…would truly enjoy trying this brand as a comparison! The look gorgeous!! Leslie E

    338
  299. Oh I have wanted these threads for so long! I am a member of a historical recreation group and I would probably put them to use on a period piece, maybe some embroidery on a doublet or a favor for my husband. Or maybe, for once, something for me! Thank you for your generous offers and your website- I use it all the time.

    340
  300. I enjoyed following you on your Rooster embroidery and have an urge to do a Jacobean piece in crewel wool. These colours are lovely and would suit a number of projects – not sure I am up for a bed hanging just yet though!

    341
  301. I am in love with history, and embroidery so I’d both for me. And those colors, mmmmm! luxury!! It’s funny that you mentoned woad because that was the first thing that crossed my mind as I read the first few lines! Mary, you are and have very generous friends, I hope you will pass along our thanks to all of them. Even if I never win anyhting at all, I appreciate their generosity and graciousness to give such things away.

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  302. I just love the colors and crewel embroidery. My late father enjoyed crewel and I have a lovely picture that he made for me.
    Your rooster is fantastic – a bit out of my league at the moment but I’m getting there.

    345
  303. The colors are beautiful! With these wonderful choices it would be easy to get out my crewel work again. I am not talented enough to hand dye my own wool thread or fabrics but appreciate the work that it takes to create the colors and enjoy using them.

    I love your website. Each day is a new adventure in needlework. Thank you!

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  304. Ooooohhhhhhh! I fall into the second category. I just love all of the wonderful colors and the many projects it brings to mind! Brenda Day, Wilmington, Ohio

    347
  305. Oh I don’t know I love to look at those wonderful embroideries and thinking about the women and girls who sat in the firelight and created them. I have a fascination in looking at their detailing up close. I would love to be able to create just a fraction of a small one but don’t feel that I have the talent to live up to these ghosts of stitching past. But then again I really like the colors of these and could just enjoy them for that!

    348
  306. I love, love, love Jacobean designs, so it would be wonderful to have this beautiful selection of artisan wools. These would be perfect for some of the ‘Three Sheep Studio’ designs I’ve admired on Etsy.

    349
  307. Your newsletters are such an inspiration and always enjoyable. I love your links as it gives me new things to do and learn. I love working with wool threads as the embroidery takes on a whole new look. Thank you for your wonderful blog.

    350
  308. I confess, I would like to own these lovely threads just because they are so beautiful. I would also like to use them in a future crewel project.

    351
  309. Oh my….. because the colors are so beautiful! My stitching remained too neatly folded and unattended for much of 2011 while I worked on a graphic design degree. As I near the end of my program, my fingers are craving needles and beautiful threads!

    I’ve learned a lot from your blog. Thank you.

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  310. Well, now since I mentioned earlier that I want to reconnect with crewel embroidery after many years doing needlepoint, this assortment would make an excellent foundation for a Jacobian project. Thanks for doing this drawing. It’s been loads of fun waiting to see wht you come up with next!
    Robin Smith
    Virginia

    354
  311. I haven’t done any crewel work for a long time, but would love to own these gorgeous threads. I am working on a wool crazy quilt and wool thread embroidery would certainly be a nice touch!!
    Karen in Breezy Point

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  312. I fall into the second category–just the thought of a cold, damp house with less than bright light to stitch in (even with a few hot flashes thrown in to warm things up)isn’t quite my cup of tea. BUT those colors just call out to be used in a design along with some wool applique. Thanks for the giveaway opportunity.

    356
  313. I LOVE stitching with wool. I love the way wools blend. I suspect that I really am a 16th/17th century embroidery fan, but am not sure. In any event I love these colors and working with wool.

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  314. It is the colours that attracts me to this range but I can respect the historical connection with them.

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  315. Dear Mary –
    Both reasons apply. Even when I like a historical period for its techniques and designs, it doesn’t follow that I have to like its color palette, although I do like them for their own appeal in this case. In truth, if we study many museum-sponsored needlework replica kits, we see that the people who made up the kit often substitute subtle color changes so that they will appeal to our modern eyes and contemporary color sensibilities.

    Cheers, Shirley

    360
  316. Of course I admire the 16th/17th embroidery but not nearly as talented so I must say I enjoy looking at the beautiful colors of the yarns and of course the feel. The softer the better.

    Suzanne from The Woodlands

    361
  317. I’m very much into 16th and 17th century embroidery and have been wanting to make a petit point table carpet for quite some time. These would be perfect for that project. What a wonderful prize!

    362
  318. I have always loved Jacobean style embroidery. I used to do it back in the 60’s. I recently found a blouse pattern with the transfers in my stash of old patterns. I would love to recreate that blouse with these gorgeous threads. Thanks
    Carolw, Windsor, CA

    363
  319. Hi Mary. Like you I just love the colours of the wool. I have tried my hand at crewel work but only had old, second hand wool that really didn’t behave. I suppose I should really throw it away but I hate throwing anything away and maybe one day I’ll turn it into felt or use it some other way. I must confess I don’t know if it would turn into felt and I can’t think of another way of using it but maybe one day inspiration will come along.

    364
  320. I like them because of the pretty colors, and only have used Appleton wools so far. I would love to try these. Thanks again for such lovely give sways.

    365
  321. Both–if they weren’t so pretty I wouldn’t want to stitch up something very historical with them, which I do! I would definitely want to do an Elizabethan/Jacobean design–so exciting. 🙂

    366
  322. I would love these threads because the colors are beautiful, and they are some of the best wool threads out there. I have stitched a bit with them in the past.

    Thanks again for the chance to win.

    367
  323. Mary, I have Susan O’Connor’s book ‘Flowers for Elizabeth’ and would love to use these wools in this project! Thank you for this opportunity 🙂

    Tomi Jane

    368
  324. I love Jacobean embroidery designs, but frankly, I love the wool and the beautiful colors most! Wool is sumputuous and a pure delight to work with.

    370
  325. I admit it….I love the colors and would like to apply them to a more modern piece!
    Sandy O. from Wa State

    371
  326. Hi,
    I have not tried Jacobean embroidery yet but would love to. I have an idea how I would use those skeins already. Friend of mine is pregnant with her first one and I thought that I have 7 months to prepare a little bed cover for her baby’s bed (including learning and getting used to using wool). So I think I am more fan of that particular style rather than colours (and I like little bit of a challenge) but I think this range of colours would be perfect for such project.
    Happy New Year everyone.

    372
  327. Hi Mary,
    I have admired your Crewel Rooster project so much. He’s beautiful! I plan to tackle him but I don’t have the thread. I love the array of colors in this crewel thread collection. With that being said, I have a naked crewel rooster project crowing for his feathers as its getting cold outside. Hope he’s a lucky rooster ;)This is such a fun giveaway! Thanks Mary.
    Terese USA

    373
  328. I have used wool before on a Jacobean crewel purse and in a current miniature doll’s house rug, but the mfgr of those wools is no longer in business. It’s good to know of another and such a beautiful source. These colors are so soft and lovely. they make one itch to stitch.

    374
  329. Hi Mary, Merry Eighth Day of Christmas! Yes, I am a huge fan of 16th and 17th embroidery. I was learning to make bobbin lace, then came across the English embroidered jackets, then other embroidery from that time and now it’s a passion. I also like to do wool applique and find that playing with wool and wool threads is so much fun! Thanks! Lynn

    375
  330. Dear Marymentor:
    I am definitely a 16th 17th Century embroidery fan. I love love love crewel. I gravitated toward it immediately when I first picked up a needle because it has “depth” and “texture”. I ordered William Morris’s “Strawberry Thief” coverlet pattern from Australia. A bit pricey, as are the better materials, which, of course as one might expect, always turn out such magnificent pieces. It still holds true we cannot make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear ! 😀 I surely would love to win these wools so I may begin that coverlet. Thanks again and Happy New Year. Judy in Pittsburgh

    376
  331. Oh, this is my favorite day so far! I have drooled over this wool since I first read of it, but already had received a complete set of Appleton wools as a gift and couldn’t justify the expense of yet more fibers! But, I love the colors and am making a “hussif” with a Jacobean design on the front, which I was going to do in DMC because the Appleton is a little fuzzy. I would switch to the Renaissance wool if I won! I absolutley love the color range.

    377
  332. Oh WOW! This is the most heart-pounding prize you have posted yet Mary, Thank You! I love Jacobean embroidery. When I was 12 my new step-mother gave a copy of The Art of Crewel Embroidery (I think by Marion Davis?) and it still one of my favourite references. The color range is stunning too. I have always wanted to make a large casket, these would be so perfect for that. Or embellishing a Renaissance Faire costume.

    378
  333. Hi, merry 8th day of christmas. I’m mary varma from india. There are some designs i like from the 16th and 17 century design but i would’nt say i’m a fan of it and these are much more than just pretty wool threads; but 1 would go with the second option. I’ve always wanted to do your crewel rooster but for certain reasons i’m unable to do it, if i win this giveaway it would be a very big reason why i should do it. Thank you.

    379
  334. I want the pretty wools because I love the colors and I love the feel of fine fibers. It doesn’t matter what, cotton, linen, silk or wool. I think pulling them out on a dark, cold, grey day to feel and look would make the day a lot brighter. Diane

    380
  335. Both!, the colours are beautiful and i really like period embroideries. I am yet to make one myself but do have a couple of beautiful books on the subject with designs that these colours would suit perfectly.

    Thanks again for another fantastic opportunity Mary.

    381
  336. Beautiful colors! I am inspired to continue my education in crewelwork after completion of the Nesting Place needlebook. I have the RSN Crewelwork book and would love to use these beautiful wools to work a design based on one from the book. I am also intrigued by the work done during the 16th century especially after seeing it at the V & A in London!!

    382
  337. I would love to win them because they’re nice wools in pretty colors and I have never worked with wool threads before.

    384
  338. Oh, my. What is there not to love? I adore working with wool; knitting, sewing, embroidering. I have drooled over their knitting yarns for some time, the colors are to die for! having recently gotten back into embroidery, these yarns would be a joy to do some crewel work with.

    385
  339. It has been awhile since I have done crewel embroidery but with the beautiful colors of this wool I am ready to start a new project.

    386
  340. Thanks for the chance for this fabulous prize. I would like to have it for the beautiful colors for embroidering mt knitting. I have been wanting to try these yarns so what a great opportunity this would be.

    Susan R

    387
  341. Yup, I love Jacobean style embroidery & blackwork. Yup those colors are gorgeous. Would be great to use them in samplers of that period.

    388
  342. I definitely fall into the first category. I’ve tried all sorts of embroidery, but landed happily in my favorite 16th/17th century period. I blame Lorna Doone. I read the book as a child and was fascinated. I studied 17th century music in college and even learned to play the harpsichord of all things (Virginals were the earlier instrument in England in the 16th century). So, of course, the embroidery of that period would be my favorite, too — crewel, blackwork, stumpwork, goldwork — those are the things I most enjoy. I haven’t tried Renaissance dyeworks wools, but I’ve been wanting to try their Elizabethan colors for quite some time. This would get me away from silk and gold for a little while.

    389
  343. I love 16th/17th century embroidery and I love pretty colors and I love Renaissance’s products. Thanks, Mary!

    390
  344. I would love towing the Rennassaince wools. When you waxed rhapsodic about these threads last year, I knew that the day would come in which we would have to meet.

    391
  345. I wish all a happy and successful year ahead.

    I last used wool many years ago on an embroidery project which I still display in my “work” room. I would love to try something again with the beautiful wool give-away.
    Here’s hoping!

    392
  346. What a beautiful range of colors. I really fall into both categories. I love looking at historical stitching and trying my hand at it and I’m always tempted by threads whose colors are particularly appealing. These colors definitely fit that category and would be nice to have to try in a Jacobean design, though I suspect I would not attempt something so big as a bed coverlet.
    Lee C.

    393
  347. How could I not wish for these! It’s a rainbow, and I love rainbows whether in the sky or in my stash drawers. This would be a delightful addition to the rainbows in my life!

    Nancy

    394
  348. Wow… these are gorgeous! I am, indeed, a 16th century embroiderer, but I am also currently enamored by kloisterstitch, and would *love * to play with these for planned 14th and 16th century reproduction projects!

    395
  349. I would love these wools because they’re pretty colors AND I’ve always wanted to learn how to do crewel embroidery.

    398
  350. The colors are delightful and I would take them in a minute! I am not a crewel stitcher but I WOULD find a project to use these colors for sure!!!!!!!!!

    399
  351. I just love the colors! I’ve never had the chance to work with such lovely threads and would love the opportunity.

    400
  352. HI,
    Wow, I just love the look of the colors and I love wool. I have never tried this brand but I am learning to do crewel and stumpwork and I think these colors are amazing. I also love your newsletters. Thank you,
    Cathy

    401
  353. I am a 18th century person … I am huge fan of Jane Austen …. but I love Crewel work … and can work with proper threads to me will be GREAT!! … the range of colors is really amazing, so definetely I´ll be happy to win this Wool Set … Thank you !!
    Walfrida

    403
  354. I love 16th/17th century embroidery to look at but I love the colors of these wools and look forward to working with them when I win! Ha!

    404
  355. The colors are beautiful, and as well as being a novice thread junkie (I don’t have any wool yet), I originally got into embroidery and sewing through a medieval reenactment group, and I would love some historical embroidery materials.

    405
  356. Hi Mary!
    I love these threads. Actually, I need a refill…. I have the whole colour range and use them quit often. It’s wonderful to work with!!
    Gwen Kok, Dordrecht, the Netherlands.

    406
  357. I like the treads because of the beautiful colors and it’s a bonus that they are naturally dyed. I ordered this exact pack a few months ago and am currently stitching the “Flutterby” from “Beginner’s Guide to Crewel Embroidery”. Just last night I looked at your video of the Bullion knots. Thank you for making the video, because I almost lost it and was about to fill the area with another kind of stitches! But I manage to make them quite nice now.
    I am also working another project with the same wool, it’s one of their Lace Knitting kit’s, the Lily Lace Scarf (I received it as a Christmas gift). It’s going to take a lot of time till I complete it, but it already looks really nice and delicate and feels really soft.
    So in short I’m a big fan of this wool!

    407
  358. Hi Mary,
    I have to be honest, I just love the pretty colors and would love to win them. I still want to try and do your crewel rooster and this would sure give me a good reason to start. Once again thanks for a lovely giveaway.
    Joan Turrell from Canada

    408
  359. Oh, this one gives me goosebumps!! I would have to be in both categories. I LOVE these threads. I love the idea of the range (natural dyes done in the 16th cent). And I love that period/style of embroidery. There is something so earthly and “cozy” about it. Intriguing and naive. Colorful and flowing. Oohhhhh. Like I said: Goosebumps!! My fingers continue to be crossed!!!!

    409
  360. Good Morning Mary,

    I’m both interested in the Elizabethan period and I like the striking colours of the wool. I do enjoy crewel work and I have a bird pattern that would look beautiful in this wool.

    Once again thank you for this contest.
    Greta596

    410
  361. You’re killing me with all these wonderful give aways. I want everything! I love color, so I would have to say it is the color range that gets me on this eight day. I haven’t done any crewel work for years, but these colors make my fingers itch to do something!

    412
  362. What beautiful colors!!! I have been fascinated by string since I was a little girl. Would love to have this to sew with! Desiree, from Oregon.

    413
  363. I fit in both categories! I love historical embroidery, and I can’t get enough of these great colors!

    414
  364. I love the colors and the yarn. I love yarn to crewel, to knit. Yesterday, the question was about scissor collector – I am a yarn collector. I get very nervous if I don’t have a lot of yarn – I want to be able to do whatever project I want to do when I want to do it. We have to travel a little ways to get good yarn, so I have to order it, sooooooooo I kinda have a yarn store in my house:)

    415
  365. Gorgeous colours. I have always wanted to try crewel embroidery. The rooster you have made is just awesome! I will be going to that site to look at the knitting wools. Hope I will this!
    Patricia

    416
  366. How absolutely lovely. I’ve never tried wool for crewel work and desperately want to try. Am totally seduced by the old world – especially the exaggerated Jacobean images. Very wild wood out there! Well Elizabethan colours – I suspect they are much more subtle and I’d love to translate them into something in keeping with their history.
    Lynne Humphrey St Albans UK

    417
  367. Aloha Mary,
    I love the colors. I do like 16/17th century embroidery for 2 reasons:16th century proportions were totally out of cinque i.e.lions larger than people and bees as big as birds. Jump to the end of the 17th century and beautifully rendered and proportionally correct embroidery was the order of the day.
    Jacquelin Ihsan

    418
  368. I love the colours, but then I am also fascinated with 16th and 17th century embroidery. I am quite new to crewel embroidery so I don’t have a stash of yarn yet.

    419
  369. I just love the colors. I’ve been planning a crewel project which will be my first and these colors will work great. I really like the 16th/17th color combinations.

    421
  370. I would love to win them for many reasons: the pallete, the love for wool, the love for embroidery and knitting, and so on. However, the fact that I have never worked with thread that has been prepared in such a crafty manner with so much appreciation for the history of dyeing and textiles is perhaps the strongest motivation to submit this comment. Thanks. Happy New Year.

    422
  371. I would like to win this prize because I’m a retired senior English teacher – how’s that for an obscure connection? I love Elizabethan “anything” and have fallen in love with the newer (to me) yarns such as Crescent Colours and Weeks Dye Works yarns for the variation in color they present. I know I would enjoy using this gift.

    Patricia B., Wharton, TX

    423
  372. C. All of the above. I am history buff and a magpie collector of threads. I have recently returned to crewelwork after spending years exploring counted work of various kinds. It was the first type of embroidery I learned as a child, and it feels like comming home.

    424
  373. WOW This is certainly Christmas day all over again. Whoever receives this gift will be looking for the mailman each day. If I win, I might even give him a hug and kiss. Thanks for these chances to win great gifts
    Ann

    425
  374. The Elizabethan range of threads from Renaissance Dying look fantastic! They are not available where I live and to be able to stitch with these threads would be an amazing treat, thank you so much.
    Pam Rae

    426
  375. I love the colors of this wool thread. I have been doing crewel embroidery for about 25 years. I would love to work with thread this nice and beautiful! Thank you.

    427
  376. Although I love all needlework, I am addicted to completing reproduction 17th century wallets, especially in bargello. It is so special to complete a wonderful piece and look forward to my family enjoying these treasures in years to come. Thanks so much.
    Ann

    428
  377. Crewel is my favorite type of embroidery so needless to say I would have alot of uses for the wool 🙂

    I LOVE the colors..that is my favorite part of doing any type of needlework..color, color, and MORE color!

    I am familiar with using Renaissance Wool thanks to your website and it’s exceptional in every way!

    429
  378. I m a fan of these colours and would love to use them. I have been looking for wool that is nice to work with It would be great to win
    Melisa Bakos in saskatchewan

    430
  379. Oh these wools are gorgeous!
    I do embroidery and work with wool, so these are right up my alley.
    The colors are wonderful!

    432
  380. These wools are gorgeous! I’m especially drawn to them because they are naturally dyed. I’ve spent a good deal of time using natural dyes on my handspun yarn during the summer months. Then I use the yarns in my handweaving. I would love to use the Elizabethan range colors in my needlework.

    433
  381. My answer to the question of the day is “both”! I am a historical embroidery fan (16th/17th century and much earlier) and I have wanted to try Renaissance Dyeing wools for a long time because they are so beautiful as well as being historically appropriate.

    434
  382. I would love to have these wonderful hand dyed wools to use in doing the crewelwork Rooster that was on your website. Ever since I saw the Rooster article, I’ve wanted to stitch him but couldn’t decide on the colorway I liked best. These beautiful wool threads should take care of that indecision.

    435
  383. Hmmm. With these I think I’m a “want them because of the pretty colors” person.

    Crewel is really not my thing–although I suppose I wouldn’t have to do traditional crewel designs with them. There are some Japanese embroidery designs that I think would be interesting done with a different type of fiber and stitches–maybe these could be used for that.

    Carol S.

    436
  384. I fall into both categories. I think the reason knit is because I love the feel of the fibers and making luscious soft things to go against the skin, especially for babies who are also luscious and soft. But I love history and making art that is conistent with history or respectful of history. My current passion is blackwork and it’s pre 16th century influences from the Islamic world.

    If I won this prize I might be tempted to share some of it with my sister who is a War of 1812 re-enactor and enjoys doing crewel. These fibers would make some lovely “pockets” for her and my niece!

    437
  385. I would love this thread as I portray Bess of Hardwick at the Washington Midsummer Ren Faire here in Bonny Lake, WA.

    It would be fun to work with high quality threads as I make set pieces for the Royal Court.

    438
  386. I would love to use these wools to add texture to my current projects. I just love the beautiful colors.
    Merry 8th Day of Christmas
    Connie

    439
  387. These delicious colours would work perfectly with the crewel designs I have ready to start. I’ve used cotton threads for crewel so far, so I would like to try the Renaissance wools and expand my horizons.

    440
  388. These threads are gorgeous! I love the colors but I am also a big fan of the Tudor/Stewart dynasty of England … every dress Queen Elizabeth I wore in her protraits was full of elaborate stitching! Thank you for offering such treasures!

    441
  389. I love beautiful embroidery threads, have quite the collection, It’s wonderful to start a project, go to my stash and have the rainbow at my finger tips. Would like nothing more then to add to it with you fabulous give away.
    Theresa N.

    442
  390. Definitely a 16th–17th Century embroidery fan, and I would like to feel this wool in the hand.
    Happy New Year Mary.
    Joan

    443
  391. i would have to answer both for this one. the colors are amazing, but i also enjoy going to ren faires and these would complete a period costume by having a period craft to do 😀

    445
  392. Oh Boy! I am a 16/17th century enthusiast alright! I love the dress of the era, the embroidery, everything! I would like to live the era for just one day…mind you I said One day. Ok, maybe an hour at an embroidery frame:) I know what life was like back then and wouldn’t push it. And the colors of the wool are good enough to eat! So, I’d have to say both really. The fact that they are dyed with materials that would have been used then is fantastic.

    447
  393. I admit – they are pretty – I have all kinds of ideas for them! Wouldn’t they make a great children’s piece?

    448
  394. I love crewel embroidery and have used only the Elizabethan patterns. I would love to try this yarn both for the color range and because I do love the Elizabethan designs in this kind of wool,
    I took a look at the Natural Dye Garden on the Renaissance site and can’t wait to try this yarn

    449
  395. holy cow! Each of these giveaways is better than the last! I have been coveting the renaissance dyeing threads forever! I love 17th century embroidery but I am more a fan of these glorious shades that work so beautifully together. Thanks for the chance to win!

    450
  396. I love 16th C floral embroidery, particularly for its influence on what would become the Metis nations in Canada and their floral beadwork.

    These skeins look absolutely beautiful – just looking at them is causing wonderful things to bloom in my imagination!

    451
  397. Both? I am a huge fan of Tudor history, and as I have progressed in my new hobby, I have been planning more and more 16th and 17th century inspired projects. As I attend our local renn faire every year, and this previous year was blessed with my first nobility dress as a birthday gift, I am planning on making blackwork sleeves and partlet to go with it as my big summer project this year. Once I have the outfit, I want to work the Flowers for Elizabeth blanket…and these wools would be wonderful to carry around in my basket at faire as I work on the project!

    453
  398. The colors look quite lush and the smooth finish appeals to me. I’ve a number of crewel projects that are on my to-do list. Perhaps a new collection of wools will promote them to the top of the schedule.

    454
  399. This collection of wools seem to be perfect for colcha embroidery! It’s nice to see a new option for purchased yarns for colcha. It is so much fun to stitch, but not fun to process my own wool to stitch with.

    455
  400. Hi Mary!
    Well, besides the fact that wool is warm….last night at 6 pm it was 20 below at my house….this morning we are having a heat wave as it is 4 above!

    Back to the topic: I love wool. My favorite type of stitching is crewel work with wool. Don’t know why – I just like the texture and you can do so many things with it to create many different looks. Thanks for the chance to enhance my stash!

    456
  401. As I mentioned in a previous entry, this will be my “crewel year.” I am enrolled in a Judy Jeroy course (Jacobean), and I really enjoy trying my hand at very traditional needlework. I love this period of English history. My name is “Elizabeth,” and I began reading everything I could find about Elizabeth I when I was a preteen. From the Tudor period, my interest expanded outward to embrace all of English history and history in general. I believe that every child should be named for a real historical figure in order to spark a similar interest.

    457
  402. What exquisite colours in the Elizabethan range. I am a fanatic for Jacobean embroidery but so far have always mixed my yarns out of more necessity, it’s what I have. So it would be a great pleasure to do one of my designs, perhaps the large table runner in these crewel wools. I have to tell you that I love your Rooster, he really is gorgeous. Regards Mandy Currie (mandycurrie@googlemail.com)

    459
  403. Hi Mary
    I think they are beautiful colors but I really admire the folks doing this work….to keep the knowledge alive from the 16th century is really cool! In this fast paced world I just love that I can sit down and work on an embroidery project…..doing my part to keep this tradition alive…..and then there are the talented folks that keep all of us supplied with the history thru their artistry. Long thought but really awesome gifts. I didn’t know this existed.Thanks
    Lynn

    460
  404. I love the beautiful colors of wool, and would love to have them in my stash for use on a future project!

    461
  405. Well! It is embroidery thread, that in itself would be enough to make me want them … but add to that the beautiful colours.

    Also I have a crewel work design that would look stunning worked in that fabulous lambs wool!

    462
  406. I think I am in the latter group,too…I just love looking at the different colors and wondering what I could do with them…..

    463
  407. Although I admit to being a fan of admiring early woolen crewelwork, I do love to work with color and texture! The colors that are offered are scrumptious, and I would love to do a church piece based on a 19th C design!

    464
  408. Love the colors and historic embroidery! I have 2 of Gail Marsh’s books on my shelf and I love imagining my ancestors doing some of the embroidery.

    465
  409. I would like those wool threads because I used wool threads in crazyquilting. I’ve had a fulled wool block featured in AQS’s magazine in the past. It was even chosen for the large featured block and it is now professionally framed on my dining room wall. I LOVE working with fulled wool and wool threads!

    466
  410. Hmm – nice wools and beautiful colors! Thanks again for the chance to win a great product.

    Toni in Lakeview OR

    467
  411. I am a 16th and 17th century embroidery fan but that doesn’t mean I think I could take on a project like that! I love the pretty colors. I would love to use these for throw pillow covers.

    468
  412. I would love to win these wools because I have fallen into the Tudor/Jacobean age of embroidery and I can’t (won’t, don’t want to) climb out!

    469
  413. Hi Mary
    I´m attracted by beautiful colours so obviously this range would suit me perfectly – and would enable me to practise wool embroidery.

    470
  414. I was so e=delighted to see the thread and array of colors. I have used cotton thread which has all sorts of issues such as twisting. After reading the information about this thread I realized what a fool I was to be so frugal. All the time and work involved in doing needle work is somewhat wasted using less than quality thread. My work is worth quality thread.Judy

    471
  415. Actually, the former. I’m very much a 16th/17th century embroidery (and especially dying!) fan. I do medieval reenactment in my spare time, and most of what I spend my time on involves the fiber arts of the 14-16th centuries. 🙂

    473
  416. Happy New Year Mary,

    I am absolutely NOT a historical embroiderer 🙂 I am so in love with all the gorgeous rainbow of colors of this wool though; and the idea that it’s all natural dyes. The closest we get to hand dyeing anything here is we dye all our Easter eggs with onion skins; it makes the most lovely rich red brown color imaginable … If I were lucky enough to get these wools, they would be a gift for my daughter, who IS a highly skilled knitter, creating socks from dozens of colors … I think she could make a rainbow colored wedding ring lace shawl from these …

    Thanks for your generosity!

    Cathy in PA

    474
  417. I’d love to win this selection of threads for both reasons. I’m an avid lover of 16th / 17th century embroidery work. I’ve always been somewhat dissapointed in the crewel wools I’ve used long ago before changing direction in my craft. These wools seem to be a much higher quality, nicer wools in pretty colors. I really want to give them a try.

    475
  418. Well . . . I would probably mount the skeins as you have them displayed. For a few years even – then remorse at not having used them will set in and I’ll stitch like crazy. They are just so wonderful to look at in their pristine state. Ah…..

    478
  419. 8th Day of Christmas – Well, I can’t choose. I love the history of fiber arts and all period techniques are interesting. However, the color range here has such a beautiful array that they could be worked into modern style designs as well. So, I guess I’ll just have to be the winner of this lovely wool and then determine the perfect project for them.

    480
  420. I love the colors obtained from natural dyes. I’m feeling very drawn to these colors right now, and it’s almost impossible to find any garments in the wonderful colors obtained from natural dyeing. Plus I’d love to use this wool.
    Scrumptious.
    Thanks Mary!

    481
  421. Hello Mary,
    First of all, I would like to congratulate you for your so interesting messages that I read with great pleasure. According to your question,the colors are so beautiful that I can stay admiring them a very long time and (just) dream about a new project !! About your give-away, I select the second choice : pretty colors make me so happier !! Have a nice day.
    Annie (from France)

    482
  422. Happy New Year Mary!
    This is a beautiful range of lovely wool threads. I think- at least for awhile- I would have to play with them- you know, just enjoy the beautiful range of colors. Then I would learn some crewel embroidery- especially the 16th century style. By the way, does a completed 16th Century Jacobean spread come with them (smile).
    Thanks for this opportunity!
    Peg F. in NJ

    483
  423. Hi this is the first timme I entere a give away. I would really like to winn becouse I am a reenactress and those are perfect to embroider my garb. Also I really enjoy wandering through theese pages and learn about embroidery and more… keep on going !
    Tanja aka Elisabeth of Tuirstadt

    485
  424. I would have to admit that I like them because
    they are nice wools with pretty colors. I would love to have them. Thanks for the chance
    to win!!

    486
  425. I love the colors of these wools and I’m sure they would be fun to work with. How exciting.

    487
  426. I am Elizabethan. 🙂 My actual name is Elizabeth (Betsy is a nickname, like “Bess” that was sometimes used for the Queen), plus my maiden name starts with the letters “a” and “n.” Given the connection, I have been fascinated with that period most of my life. I know that Elizabeth 1st was an embroider, and I have loves flowing the progress of the Plimouth jacket project (styled in the Elizabethan fashion.) So I would truly love the wools in this wonderful giveaway, especially knowing how much a labor of love it was to create them!

    488
  427. I am a admirer of 16/17th century embroidery. That is what has inspired me to learn needlearts.
    The colors are wonderful. It would be a great starter kit for me on my journey to learn to do crewel work.

    Mary in Oregon

    489
  428. Hi Mary: I still have a crewel picture of sunflowers that I stitched in the 1970’s and would love to have these beautifully colored wools to work with again. I also would love to embroider the rooster from your site. Look forward to your daily blogs. Thanks.

    490
  429. I have found a pattern for a Spanish heraldry Project in one of my magazines that I am anxious to try. These wools would be the ideal yarn to use. Thank you once again for this fabulous contest.

    491
  430. Oh my – such BEAUTIFUL colors. I am most definitely a fan of the earthy colors and tones, and love knowing that they’re dyed with natural and age old techniques. Would love to get my fingers on these wools and begin to learn to embroider more 🙂

    492
  431. The depth of color, the richness and the ability to have needlework that is even more special than is normally found is found in these threads. I’m getting ready to start some new needlework, something that I’ve never done before. I’ve been doing needlework since a young child and through Mary Corbett and all of her tips, techniques, patterns, and contacts I have found a world I have never explored before. It is one of the things I’m thankful in this new year 2012.

    493
  432. Wow. I’d have to say because they are beautiful, luscious colors, because I don’t know what 16th and 17th century embroidery looks like, exactly. Anyway, They’d be wonderful to use for some crewel work.

    494
  433. I have to say that i’m more posting because the colors are amazing than I am because of my love for embroidery in general. I recently purchased the Embroidery Stitch Bible and I’m dying to create works using the new techniques I’ll learn.

    495
  434. I would definitely like these for the gorgeous colors! I’ve only tried Appelton yarn thus far and would love to see another brand.

    496
  435. I just love the colors of the wool. I can envision these on a wool blanket or a Jacobeon design for a pillow or wall hanging. One of my first projects were done in wool, the texture covers many mistakes. Love your blog.
    Barb from OR

    497
  436. I love looking at historical embroideries but prefer to make contemporary designs. But I would love these colours because they are all plant dyes and high quality wool.

    I really like the textures of crewel embroidery and am sure it has many uses in these modern days.

    Thank you and Renaissance Dyeing for the opportunity to win these wools.

    Annette

    498
  437. I embroider a lot of historical motifs and spent a significant amount of time researching 16th and 17th century embroidery in the last year. These colors would make a beautiful table carpet or pillow or curtains. One of the best things about researching historic embroidery is that you have to test your theories by embroidering the stitches and motifs in order to confirm your ideas. Thus your research feeds into your embroidery and your embroidery informs your research.

    499
  438. I want them because I am a fan of 16th/17th century embroidery AND because they are beautiful wools.

    500
  439. Since most of my embroidery is historical, these yarns would be right up my alley :). I already have some of the yarns, I’m currently doing a Pictish embroidery in woad-dyed crewel wool. I also bought some of the huge skeins for a Bayeux project.

    501
  440. My Mum has been talking about doing a crewel work fire screen ever since we took a Jacobean Crewel Work course together. I’d set her up with a design based around those lovely colours!

    502
  441. Wow! Since I read the article on woad dyeing I am looking to do some crewel embroidery. If I win these skeins I would do it right now.
    I see nature when I look at all those beautiful colors.

    Ginette of Mexico

    503
  442. I just love the colours and the fact that they are from natural dyes. I get great delight in just looking at them. Then would come another fun part – deciding what to do with them!

    504
  443. For both reasons!!!! Crewel embroidery is my very favourite technique although I usually do many others. When I come back to a crewel project and feel the wool threads and the precise stitches, I am always amazed at how relaxing the technique is. I have been a fan of the 16th century England since high school when I wrote an essay on Tudor furniture and followed that up with more studies on Elizabethan costume, and of course the embroideries!!!!

    505
  444. What beautiful thread! I just love the thread and the beautiful colors…..although pillows with Jacobean designs go with a beautiful quilt on on my bed–wow!

    506
  445. I would like these Renaissance wools just because they’re so pretty. I would also have the opportunity to try crewel embroidery.

    507
  446. I would love this, just because the colours are soooo beautiful!!! But if I won I would totally give Elizabethan embroidery a go!

    Thanks,

    Rach L.

    508
  447. Happy 8th Day of Christmas! The colors of this yard are BREATH-TAKING!!! And just perfect for the crewell rooster that you gave us the pattern for Mary. I have done three Jacobean pieces and really love the historical pieces. When I get two small projects finished, Rooster comes next! Thx so much for this exciting opportunity!!!
    Missy Palmer, Grand Junction, CO

    509
  448. Hi Mary,
    I would have to admit I love these wools because they are pretty. I’m a bit of a thread junky so these wools would be treasured and used with love in one project or another 🙂

    510
  449. Mary,
    O my,what great wools. I’m ready to do some crewel
    and lace knitting. Add to the list of things I want to do.
    Thanks again for all the fun, nancy r

    511
  450. I studied a LOT of medieval and renaissance history and Literature in college and have always dreamed of having proper, embroidered bed hangings! This bundle would be a great start!!!
    Joan from Gloucester

    512
  451. I do lots of crewel projects. Most of them are from old art museum books I find at me local used book store. Great inspiration!

    I would definitely use these threads.

    Elaine in New Mexico

    513
  452. I do not do 16th / 17th century embroidery exclusively, although I have done it occasionaly.

    Hower those wool colors would be perfect for my dragon project , and good as Cretaceous flowers in my dinosaur project. LOL Just stroking and looking at them would be fun.

    514
  453. I am attracted to pretty colors and wow are these pretty!
    And wool! Perfect fiber for my work.

    515
  454. I would love to win these threads because they are so pretty. I would be inclined to do some sort of embroidered wool blanket with them…but this would be a great reason to start a Jacobean piece!

    517
  455. Because I am a fan and they are beautiful threads, I would love to win all of the beautiful colors – I spend hours perusing the Elizabethan designs – I loved your Rooster!

    518
  456. This one is easy. I am working currently on an antique LANGLOIS a BLOIS tapestry piece and alas, I have run out of yarn. This would be perfect to finish it. I ‘found’ this piece at a thrift shop and feel like it ‘found’ me…it was just waiting for me to come along!! Cheers!

    519
  457. have to admit it’s the colors that attract me. it’s like lusting after that huge box of 64 crayola crayons when i was a kid!
    i think they’d be great combined with some future felting projects.

    521
  458. Hi Mary,

    I think the colours are beautiful, but I am also a 17th Century fan, being a follower of Jane Austen. I can’t wait to start stitching a crewel piece with these lovely wool threads if I win them.
    Thank you for the twelve days of Christmas.

    523
  459. Mainly because they are beautiful colors. I could have a lot of fun stitching something with them even if it isn’t traditional.

    524
  460. Do we have to talk about “century” It’s a new year and I already feel old. I’m all about color, color, color.

    525
  461. I love the idea of working with natural, historically accurate materials. I would love to try these!

    526
  462. What beautiful colors. I feel inspired to change some threads in a planned project to include them, or to design something just for these. Wool is underused these days.

    527
  463. I am a fan of 17th century art, and these colors exemplify that period beautifully! I am also relatively new at stitching, so adding these colors to my stash would exponentially increase my repertoire.

    528
  464. Would love to have these threads because the colors are beyond beautiful. I think they would be wonderful for traditional needlepoint or not so traditional.

    Fran Johnson
    Red Oak, TX

    531
  465. Oh, I love the look of crewel embroidery and have dabbled in it before. One of my favourite free ebooks on Project Gutenberg is Jacobean Embroidery. This book in combination with the Elizabethan range? Lots of project possibilities!

    532
  466. Mary,

    These colors are fabulous. I admittedly am coveting these threads for their colors and I would use them in some contemporary way, but having studied historical ecclesiastical dress and supplied a madrigal choir with some costumes at one point there is a little bit of both here. I have really done very little crewel work, but these threads are incentive to try something new.

    Out of curiosity, I would like to know how many people would just like to finish what was in the UFO bin from last year. I am still working on the same cross stitch I started last year. Just in case you needed a new question for later this week. Thanks again for all of these great gifts and notions. I am enjoying just seeing all of it, but will rejoice if you list my name on the 9th. Debbie Thompson, O’Fallon,IL

    533
  467. I admit to both catagories. I am a devoted fan of 16th & 17th century crewel embroidery! I began to embroider at age 50 after falling in love with crewel embroidery of this era in art books. The Elizabethan colors are absolutely divine. So far, I have only used Appleton wools, but I would really love to begin a new crewel project with the Renaissance wools.

    534
  468. Hello Mary,
    I am not a particular fan of 16th/17th century embroidery. But these colors are gorgeous. I tried vegetal dying and it is very difficult to obtain beautiful colors.
    I never tried crewel embroidery, and I think these wool skeins are perfect for this kind of embroidery, isn’t it ?

    535
  469. The colours are gorgeous!!!

    I have always been draw to Jacobean, Crewel & Wool embroidery. I guess I’m an old fashion kind of girl!

    536
  470. These are gorgeous fibres. I am definitely in the second category as I just love the colours. I adore working with different thread types in my projects and would have a blast planning a project (or two) with these if I were lucky enough to win.
    Heather from BC, Canada

    538
  471. I have done some Jacobean crewel work, but recently decided that I wanted to go with the more realistic long-and-short embroidery that I’ve seen being done these days. I love the range of colors in this set of wools.

    539
  472. I luuurve the tones of naturally dyed threads/yarns (although, any threads set out in a rainbow look pretty!) and I’m also a fan of Jacobean embroidery.

    540
  473. Literally, our local quilt shop carries about 10 different colors of wool skeins. That is it. Have to order over the internet which is fine with me but I’d rather win some. Yes the colors are so pretty. I mentioned to a friend one day that God loves color. They never thought about that but I have. I do think it is true. How about you Mary!

    542
  474. I read you article on the dying methods. Now I understand why the wool thread they sell doesn’t make my hand break out. Makes a big difference. Candy

    543
  475. Gorgeous! I’m particularly into pre-17th c. embroidery – so this is a little late for me but does fall within my preferred period (plus a lot of stuff appropriate for 16th/17th c is still very plausible for earlier…)

    544
  476. I love these wonderful colours. One could simply make a picture of them without stitching 🙂 I could not say, that I am a fan of XVI-XVII centuries crewel embroidery. But I like it very much (only looking; cannot find time to try something). But this wool looks so nice and I am dreaming about it for some time. I’d like to stitch something with it and also to try knitting (some nice mittens or wrist warmers).
    Agne (Lithuania)

    547
  477. I am a fan of both categories. I love looking at the 16th and 17th century embroideries and have signed up for a course at the EAC Seminar that focusses on stitches used in those centuries.
    I like crewel work, but am not enthralled with the wools I have used so far. Appleton crewel wool is the best, but I would rather do crewel work with embroidery floss. I would like to stitch with these wools to see if I like them better than the Appleton crewel wool. It may make a wool stitcher out of me yet.

    548
  478. I would simply love to have the wools because I love wools and these particular colors. I have been known to just have threads so I can “look” at them, even though I know they are to be stitched with. I love looking at my “thread wall” and enjoying all the colors and textures there.

    549
  479. I like the Renaissance wools because of the colors. Having such a nice assortment already picked out makes starting a creative project so much easier and exciting.

    550
  480. Good afternoon Mary, this is Lisette Root from Oregon. Oh how I love these wools! I am a fan of 16th and 17th century embroidery and I love beautiful colored threads. I have not used wools that fine, but I sure do want to try them:)I just want to say Thank You Mary, for being so dedicated with this giveaway. I see it is so very time intensive, and you have obviously had to work really hard to make this happen!Sincerely, Lisette

    551
  481. What a wonderful gift this would make – I love using beautiful wool for making babies wool blanket for the cot and also Jacobean embroidery. I have a piano stool that needs recovering and this would be an excellent choice of wool to use.

    552
  482. Holy guacamole I just love this give-away. I have no plans for any historical recreation; I just want them because they are truly beautiful threads. The person who wins this one, Mary, will be blessed indeed.

    Jana K

    553
  483. I’m all about the nice wools in the pretty colors! I’ve always wanted to try crewel embroidery. My Mom made a pillow in the 70’s with 4 different types of wild birds on it. I adore that pillow (sis has it now 🙁 ) and would love try to make something like it. Thanks for the opportunity to enter!

    554
  484. I love the Elizabethan era . And those colors here would be a perfect match to make a nice piece of embroidery representing this period! Crewel embroidery is a favorite of mine.

    555
  485. This is a great set definitely because of the coziness of the colors and the texture of the wool. I’m inspired to turn them into 2012 luxe Friendship Bracelets for my closest pals!

    556
  486. Hi Mary:

    Another winner! I love using crewel wools in embroidery but these look to be so special. If I won them I know they would make up into the most luscious piece of work.

    Thanks so much.

    Barbara Mamlet

    557
  487. How about both? I love old embroidery and would love these threads for my modern work.

    So, do you want this range because you’re a 16th / 17th century embroidery fan? Or just because they’re nice wools in pretty colors?

    558
  488. I am admitting to both – with no hesitation whatsoever! Beautiful colours just rock my socks and I absolutely love history and the Elizabethan era. Honestly, where would embroidery be without both of these things?

    559
  489. I would love to work with these wool threads in those beautiful colours. I could just let my creative juices run. Something Crewel, roses on a tea cosy, or even some so gorgious on my new plain navy sweater. Ana-Maria

    563
  490. I would love to use these beautiful wools for 17th century inspired needlework. I recently visited Williamsburg and saw the most beautiful 17th century needlework at the DeWit museum.

    564
  491. A little bit of both, though, admittedly, I’m a little more interested in the pretty colours. But, in learning about embroidery over the past few months, I’ve seen quite a bit of old embroidery or embroidery inspired by old traditions and techniques and the style, motifs, etc. fascinate me.

    566
  492. I think I’m a bit of both. Elizabethean won’t really fit into my house, but i’d sure love to try. I’d probably cover all the furniture and bedding in embroidery if my husband wouldn’t notice. But alas, I’ll have to settle for finding another outlet and the colors are absolutly wonderful.
    thanks for all of this mary, have a wonderful new year

    567
  493. I love historical embroidery, especially Jacobean designs with their large floral motifs. Because the colours in the surviving embroideries have often mellowed over the years, I suspect we would be quite surprised by some of the original color combinations embroiderers used. It would be lovely to use fibers that have been dyed naturally to see if they respond differently to the same fibers dyed with our modern chemicals.
    Ann M from Melbourne

    568
  494. The colors are beautiful and it would be fun to experiment with wool again. It has been many years since I have used it. This wool sounds soft to handle, so I would like to try it on some projects – maybe stumpwork. Thanks for giving us a chance to win. Kendra H.

    569
  495. Those are wonderful colors. I’m a Tudor/Elizabethan fan and also just enjoy quality fibers.
    My one foray into crewel embroidery ended in tears and masses of shredded wool, so I don’t think I’d use these, I would just pull them out and pet them from time to time.
    On the other hand, they’re very fine quality, so they might encourage me to try at least some simple embroidery on a child’s boiled wool jacket or a man’s doublet. They’d also be interesting colors to do some netting with.

    570
  496. I’m a 16th-17th century needlework fan for sure. And I have a special desire for these. I’ve found a vintage Elsa Williams piece, her “Stuart Series Design II” unstitched. It cries out for these colors.

    http://www.string-or-nothing.com/2009/07/28/REALISMANDAVAILABLEWALLSPACE.aspx

    But I work mostly with cottons and silks and have no wools to hand. I would love to get cracking on the Williams piece, but gathering the color assortment needed from scratch is an investment. So I covet your rainbow mightily!

    Thank you for making this available, -k.

    571
  497. Oh these threads are really lovely. I would love to win them. I have always wanted to try some Crewel work and these would be perfect. The only other time that I have used wool is in Needlepoint and I really enjoyed using it then.

    572
  498. I love stitching with wool. I’m not a huge crewel fan but I love working with any sort of natural fibers. I’ve got plans for a beautiful embroidered cardigan and the colours in this kit would be perfect!

    573
  499. I would love to use these threads for a 16th/17th century style design – they would be just perfect. The colours are so beautiful together.

    That said, they would be great for contemporary styles too.

    574
  500. Hi Mary
    I just love these colours. I don’t do a lot of 16th and 17th century wool embroidery. I tend to spin and dye my own wool for fine knitting (here in Brisbane there is not a great need for heavy garments) and the left over bits come in quite handy for wool embroidery. But the colours of these threads is just so beautifu. Would be great to be able to just sit and look at them and dream for a while about how best to use them.

    Thanks Mary

    Jenny

    577
  501. I LOVE traditional crewel. And these colors are amazing. They would truly be an inspiration to work with.

    578
  502. Oh, I remember the article about these threads! I was fascinated with the process and I thought they were just beautiful. (Your articles & pics sure make me drool alot!) I would love to win this prize and I will find something wonderful to use them on. Thanks, Mary!
    Christy (ChrisTea)

    579
  503. What beautiful colours! I would love to use them in a crewel work project. I read the articles you posted about a few months ago about natural dying and using woad and couldn’t imagine ever doing that so this would be the nearest I could get to using naturally dyed wools. Just beautiful.

    580
  504. I would fall into the latter category as well, but also love the fact that they’re dyed using natural dyes.

    581
  505. I love the pretty colors but I actually have a project lined up that needs wool. I found a late 19th century single kneeler at an estate sale and bought it for my someday-a-minister fiance. It needs new padding and a new needlepoint cover for the knee part though.

    582
  506. Sorry if I have posted on this topic before. I love all the colors, but am not sure what 16th and 17th century embroidery is yet. If it is Jacobean, I love it! Would love to do some crewel work this year.

    583
  507. Both! Yes, the colors are beautiful, but as a historic recreationist, I squealed (really!) when I saw these lovely wools dyed in colors of “my” time.

    584
  508. I love samplers, all kinds of samplers but especially early English ones. The wools are, in and of thenselves, beautiful and if I won, I would give them to my mother who does exquisite Jacobean style crewel. I think tHose woolS would be fabulous in one of her pieces

    585
  509. how bright those colors are I am working on my granddaughter’s (6yrs) drawing of bright heart balloons. Those would improve the the true colors she used

    587
  510. Yes, I’m a fan of 16th and 17th century embroidery techniques. And I love Renisiance’s wools. They are wonderful to work with and the colors are beautiful!

    589
  511. Oh, both categories! I’m currently working on a small Phillippa Turnbull project, a Jacobean fantasy flower. I love crewel work!

    590
  512. These are more than beautiful.
    Thank you so much for all the information on your site. I would not know about all these other inspiring sites if it were not for you putting them in your articles.
    I have been sitting here going thru all the sites and have enjoyed about 2 hours of splendor and joy just looking.
    The http://www.canevasfolies.ch site was so fantastic I did not want to leave it.
    Thank you for the enchanted 2 hours.

    591
  513. Dear Mary

    I didn’t think I was interested in Elizabethan embroidery but maybe I was fixated on bad photography and faded wools because this range is really lovely. I also think it is very modern and can just imagine working it.
    Cheers from down under
    RobynK

    592
  514. I’ve used other crewel wool, my favorite being Appelton, and this wool is new to me and looks yummy! Have a Jacobean project in my ‘projects to do’ and I think these beautiful colors would be perfect. Perhaps this is the reason why I’ve procrastinated; needed to be inspired!

    Lynn H Texas

    595
  515. Merry Christmas! I love Jacobean embroidery. I long to work with Renaissance crewel wool. Thank you for the opportunity to win this beautiful range.

    596
  516. I would love this range b/c they’re high quality wools in beautiful colors. I have mostly used threads meant for other crafts or used ones I’ve picked up at church fairs!

    597
  517. I just love the colors and can think of many patterns to use them with. It would be difficult to decide.

    Janiceb

    598
  518. Having recently discovered the pleasure of Crewel embroidery and having used both Appletons Wools and Strand which is a New Zealand blend of Mohair and wool I would like to try the Elizabethan Range of crewel wool, the colours attract me and are very beautiful.

    599
  519. I love the 16th century history l beautiful crewel work My first needlework over 50 yrs ago was crewel & I loved working on the project…I have to say that the beautiful colors are so wonderful and the idea of naturally dyed wool is my favorite part but I also love the beautiful work during that era so I would love to win todays items and would love the idea of being able to start a new project with the beautiful mixture of colors

    600
  520. I love the colors of the yarn. It really doesn’t matter to me what century they are from. I would use them in my embroidery.
    Gita L.

    602
  521. They say honesty is the best policy. I want them because they are great colors and nice wools. The wools I have are bits and pieces left over from when my mother did crewel embroidery. I’ve tried to learn about good sources for wools but this is the first real luck I’ve had.

    Robin

    603
  522. What a lovely price again! I am not a real fan of 16th and 17th age embroidery, but working with crewel wool is a joy that I experienced before and these colours are wonderful!

    604
  523. I would love to have these simply because the wools are in beautiful colors. This has been so much fun.

    605
  524. Like you said, ‘way back when’, when you were doing your crewel rooster I followed each day to see how it would come out and of course like all your work, because you work at perfection, it was beautiful. So I downloaded the pattern to try my hand at it and now it’s awaiting my hand to finish it. Where I live I don’t have ready access to many kinds of threads, such as the wool threads, and although I know I could order it online I’m the type of person who likes to see the product before buying it.Hands on so to speak. So “my” crewel rooster is still waiting, bless his heart.
    I like the wool threads because they are beautiful and colorful. I’m not so much into 16/17th century embroidery.
    Thanks Mary

    606
  525. I’d like to win this beautiful array of wool threads just because it’s nice to win free things so you can try them out with no expense. As much as I’d love to do this, there’s only so many hours in a day, so can’t do everything we’d like. I’d probably give this one to one of the youg ladies I am teaching.

    607
  526. Definitely nice wool and pretty colours! I could just sit and look at them (and maybe stroke them when no-one was watching).

    608
  527. Crewel embroidery is one of my earliest memories, seeing my mother’s careful stitches while sitting next to her. I remember the feel and the smell of the wool. These colors are delightful and I can only envision what a gift it would be for my 71 year-old mom who still enjoys needlework.

    609
  528. Thank you Mary & Renaissance for offering a chance at more crewel wool! The colors are divine but I must admit to a fondness for the vintage aspect. This is not difficult if, from time to time, you follow the progress of the Cromwell Counterpane reproduction at Stan Hywet, Akron, OH. Although this project is being worked in indigo on ivory, any similar motif would be over the top in the Renaissance Elizabethan range. Delicious possibilities!

    610
  529. I am a HUGE fan of Susan O’Connor’s Elizabeth designs, including her Flowers for Elizabeth blanket. Jacobean embroidery, not so much, so that said, I probably fit better into the “beautiful range of colours” category. I can think of any number of embroidered blankets I might use these for. Sure would love to have them!

    611
  530. I’m certainly a 16th/17th century embroidery fan but the wools are just so beautiful to look at I would want them anyway!

    612
  531. Dear Mary,

    I love the subtle sheen of the range. These hand-dyed lamb’s wool threads are great for any embroidery projects, I suppose.

    613
  532. OooooAhaaa…that’s all I can say about these b-u-t-ful yarns Mary! I’m a crewel embroiderer, but not into 16th nor 17th century art. I do have a Jacobean embroidery pattern that I am thinking about stitching up and making a pillow…these colors would make it stunning.

    614
  533. Mary, I’d have to say I’d love to win because of the wonderful colors. The wool would be perfect for several projects I’m planning this year. Thanks for the chance.

    616
  534. I am not a particularly a fan of the 16th/17th century embroidery. I love to look at it but have never made anything similar. I really just love the colors of the wool threads. I love bright colors and those are lovely. I would use them in a crewel piece. My first stitching project pillow was a crewel piece I made for my sister as a wedding gift some 34 years ago. I don’t think I’ve done crewel since but it was lovely and was appreciated.

    617
  535. I would have to say the second reason. They are beautiful colors. I also like all antique sewing, just not one particular era!

    618
  536. Hi – I’m an avid fan of dyed cottons, and have seen some wonderful projects done in wool of late. Haven’t ventured there, with a box full of the Cottage Garden Threads, I haven’t been game to trust myself with wools, but…. They are also a beautiful range of colours, so tempted. I do admire embroideries of the past but never imagined I could do that type of thing. Maybe start small and work my way up???
    Thankyou for these lovely giveaway opportunities.

    619
  537. I love the way embroidery carries the past forward and recognizes the skill and beauty of an era – but I also think it is important to reflect our own time and place so we have something of ourselves to pass on. These colours have a lot of potential for the Australian landscape.

    620
  538. I would love to have these beautiful yarns for both reasons. The colors are wonderful, and I really enjoy crewel work and needlepoint designs from the 16th and 17th centuries. What a joy it would be to win the Renaissance Elizabethan Range wools!

    622
  539. I love stitching with wool, love the colors the texture the look and everything else about it. I also love 16th and 17th Century needlework designs as I tend to go overboard on anything with a historical connection to it – love all the history and discovering how people lived and worked in past times. Would love the wools to create my own 16th Century piece.

    623
  540. I am really tuned into these colors for a crewel needlework design. I am always drawn to colors first but Jacobean Crewel work is also my favorite needlework. I really would love to win this collection of wool threads. What a grand way to start the New Year! Thanks for this great contest!
    Mary Ann H.

    624
  541. These wools are beautiful! I wish I could tell you that I am an accomplished crewel worker, but alas, I have three crewel projects that haven’t been started yet. They are so beautiful and I am so clumsy, I think I want to keep them beautiful in the package and in my mind’s eye. The reality will disappoint. So I would say thatI love the wool colors and that is why I would love to win this giveaway! Thanks for everything–giveaways and daily knowledge.

    625
  542. Oh I am indeed a fan of the 16th century, although I prefer silks over wools in general for threads. But this line of wool threads I have wanted for a few years now. The colors are lovely, and I am sure I could think of something historical to use them on, like a lovely cushion or panel.

    626
  543. Thank you for being able to enter again, No, I have not used these threads but would love them in my stash of beautiful embroidery goods to display and dream of using in my sewing room, they would make a beautiful cushion for my sewing room chair, the colours are soft, pretty and lovely to look at.

    628
  544. I just love the colors of the wool. I love looking at 16th and 17th century embroidery, but I just think the wool is beautiful. I also admire the process of wool dyeing. What an art.

    Thanks,
    Sheila

    629
  545. Happy New Year, Mary! And merry 8th day of Christmas too. I am a big fan of Jacobean crewel work and would so love to do a project using those glorious colours. Thanks for sharing all these wonderful gifts with us as well as the gift of your passion for needlework.

    630
  546. I am a little bit of both – I loved the guest posts on the woad dying, and I’m a bit of a history lover, so it would be great to see some of the products of a natural coloring process. But, at the same time, they are just beautiful colors and would be amazing to work with!!

    631
  547. What a beautiful range of colours. This is a crewel wool I have read about, but never had a chance to stitch with, so I would like to receive this wool to stitch a Jacobean design, just because I do love the colours.

    632
  548. Both! I’m a fan of 16th & 17th century crewel, but not the English kind… naturally the Italian kind. I have some Bandera fabric from Milan that I’m dying to try out with this technique but haven’t found the right wool. I have wondered if Renaissance Dying’s wool would be right for it and in fact, one of the Italian ladies told me it works wonderfully! Thanks for the giveaway, put me down! You can check out Bandera Embroidery here:
    http://www.ricamobandera.com/ing/bandera.htm

    633
  549. Hi Mary,
    Ooh these wools looks wonderful. I am a keen creweler and these threads are not available in australia, I would love to give them a try, I have lots of designs in waiting that they would be fantastic for.
    Happy New Year!
    Regards Susan

    634
  550. I like working with wool previously I work with Appleton thread and Medicis. I would like to work with those threads. I like the color and I like also 16th and 17th crewel embroidery, I done some.

    Thank you,

    Nicole Gelinas, Laval, Quebec

    635
  551. I love these colors-and am a lover of Jacobean crewel work. I keep thinking I should branch out with my own color combinations instead of always using the wools in kits I purchase. I am not a great embroiderer, but love it for peace of mind and a slight burst of creativity!

    636
  552. I have often dreamed about making an Elizabethen casket. The wonderful wools that are being given away would certainly bring my dream project to fruition. I have not worked very much in wool, but Inspirations magazine have shown many beautiful projects that could also be done in these wool threads.

    637
  553. I think, I’d want the wool because it is nice wool in pretty colors. 😉

    And I definitely had some ideas what to make of them… It has to be something appropriate for hand dyed thread, thats for sure.

    638
  554. These wools are so beautiful, I almost can’t find words. In answer to your question – Both. I love Jacobean embroidery and I want these wools because, well, who wouldn’t? I am sure that I could find or dream up a project that would use all of them.
    Hope you enjoyed your holidays,
    Karen in western NC

    639
  555. Since I do a lot of historical re-enactment, primarily in the 16th century, I have always been fond of Elizabethan and Jacobean embroidery and would like to venture more into that area to actually create some pieces. On the other hand, I have been known to pick up skeins just because the colours were so beautiful and not necessarily because I had a project in mind for them. These are really stunning!

    Thank you again so much for this fun contest — the variety is truly amazing!

    640
  556. These crewel yarn are beautiful — they would do well for any project. I think the older style of embroidery is my fanorite — not much of a “modern” art fan.

    642
  557. These embroidery wools are gorgeous! I am a fan of all types of embroidery and these are certainly very pretty colours! Thanks for the nice giveaway!

    643
  558. Oh, I love renaissance. I used to dance in a renaissance dance group and played renaissance music on my violin…And I also love colours, the more the better…But I have never put it together. So maybe the second reason but it might change…

    644
  559. Hello Mary,

    I Love, Love, Love Historical Embroidery Crewel work as well as Ecclisiastical. It’s amazing, Beautiful and Inspiring. I would love to give these wools a try. Thank you for the chance to enter.

    PBWY,
    Jennifer G.

    645
  560. I would really love to win this range of wools because I have long been attracted to historical needleworks, techniques and patterns. I created a rather lovely (if I do say so myself) Christmas stocking for a niece using Elizabethan crewel techniques some time ago. It cemented a love affair with techniques of long ago.It would add dimension and depth to my efforts; feeling a kinship with needle women of old. I hope to create a heritage based piece for my soon to be daughter-in-law to celebrate her marriage to my son this autumn. Their union will be a celebration of new and old. They understand that life today is best lived when respect is paid to the work of our ancestors. They will build their new life on a strong foundation of life, love and history.

    646
  561. I would love to have those lovely colours and nice wool. I’m not much on period reproductions, but some of the crewel pieces look like fun to do.

    647
  562. I would like to win it because they’re nice wools in pretty colors. Thanks for the giveaway!

    649
  563. I am a fan of this era and I love these colors. I have never worked with wool but would like to give it a try! If I won these I would use them to try colcha embroidery. Thank you for the give away!
    Ren. Mondragon Taos New Mexico

    651
  564. Oh, I have to confess that I would like to have them just because they’re nice wools in pretty colors. But one day i am going to try crewel embroidery:) If I’ll have luck in this give away it may happend sooner 🙂

    652
  565. I recently finished embroidering an 18th Century styled pocket, based on one of the many V & A’s free down loaded patterns. I ready to begin a more complex project, and have begun to sketch out the pattern of my 18th C stomacher. Your rainbow arrangement of the sceins has my prisma pencils’ humming to keep up with new ideas. Thank you for giving your fans’ such a delightful chance to try all of these wonderful products.

    653
  566. Dear Mary,
    I will say that I like this Elizabethan Range of crewel wool from Renaissance Dyeing for the beautiful wool colors.
    I have used a few other name brands of wool threads in my crazy quilt blocks and like to use them for some of my CQ embellishments and seam treatments.
    Thank you again Mary and Renaissance Dyeing for this great opportunity to hopefully own this wonderful set. Hugs!

    654
  567. Beautiful modern colours in 17th century designs.. what a challenge. Let’s bring embroidery into the 21st century and get some of those “young” people motivated to continue on this wonderful skill.

    656
  568. Hi Mary,

    The gorgeous colors just speak to me. But I also love the historical aspect of needlework. There is just not enough time for everything… These threads are beautiful!!

    658
  569. I must admit I would love to win these lovely threads because they are GORGEOUS! I do punchneedle and other types of needlework, and these would be fantastic in the designs I create. It is also wonderful that they are created naturally, which concerns me as well. I have recently started my own fiber-centric business called Raincrow Fiberarts, and if I win these colors one of the first things I’m going to do is create a punchneedle design around them and endorse this company’s thread. Thanks so much for doing this give-away, it’s really making the new year fun!

    659
  570. I confess, I have never embroidered in wool, ever. It’s always seemed slightly daunting to me. But they’re gorgeous, and I’d love to try.

    660
  571. I actually love to research the history behind the things we do. When things go came in and out of use, what sort of things were being made, how the skills were passed on, and what sort of uses it had in everyday life fascinate me! I think I like the idea that there was a time when you literally made everything you used, from clothes to bags to curtains to blankets! And decoration made them not only unique, but special to your family. anywho, that was a long post! 🙂

    662
  572. I would like them because of their colors. I like to use some of the old style with a new twist to it. Always looking for new threads that are soft to work with.
    Debra Puma

    663
  573. I fall into the latter yummy colors but trying my skill at Jacobean embroidery would be a good New Years resolution!

    664
  574. Hello Mary..Mmmmm.. I think I fall into both categories..I am fascinated with history and love Jacobean crewel style embroidery. But, I also covet the offered threads to have on dispaly in my sewing studio, just because they are so beautiful! Thanks for all the background info about how these gorgeous threads are connected to our stitching history.

    665
  575. I want to win this collection of thread because the colors are so beautiful. I do quite a bit of wool applique and would love to try a new brand.

    666
  576. Definately pretty colors and nice wool. I also like that they use a natural dye process as well.

    667
  577. I am very much a 16th/17th century embroidery fan! I also love the colors, absolutely lucious.

    669
  578. I really haven’t done any of 16/17 century embroidery, not to say I wouldn’t love to experiment with it. but I do love wool and this thread looks just gorgeous!

    670
  579. I’m a true fan of 16th/17th century embroidery. If fact, I’m sitting on a gorgeous pattern taken from an original museum piece that I would love to start with authentic wool!

    671
  580. I would use these threads because of the beautiful colors and I enjoy the calming effect those shades have on me

    672
  581. Gorgeous colours!. I would love to win this. Thanks for the giveaway opportunity.
    Patricia

    673
  582. I am fascinated with 16/17th century embroidery. I’ve done several reproduction samplers on linen with silk threads. These colors and the wool as described would make add an interesting texture to my stitching.

    674
  583. these colors are amazing! i couldn’t help myself – i had to go check out the socks. beautiful. i love reading your blog everyday. even when i can’t do any needlework, i still get to vicariously. thank you.

    676
  584. It’s the beautiful range of colours for me. I’d love to work in wool on a crewel project. Thanks for the possibility. Sue Savel

    677
  585. This is a great contest! I love the range of colors and the process of the dying is fascinating to read about. These yarns may make me try an Elizabethan style design!

    678
  586. Hi Mary, Well….I’m a great enthusiast of historical embroidery, but I have to say that these would go into my stash as just glorious colors to play with. The soft antique colors are favorites of mine. Thank you, again, for your great generosity in both time, talent and goodies!
    Victoria, Vancouver BC

    679
  587. Definately because they are nice wools in a pretty assortment of colors. I may participate in a wool BOM, so these would be great to go with them!

    680
  588. Hi Mary,

    These wools are GORGEOUS!!! I love Jacobean embroidery, but haven’t had the chance to actually embroider a piece. It is on list and trust me if I won these pretties I’d be sure to put it to the top of my list. Of course they’d look great in any project too!! Thanks again for an awesome giveaway and exposure to some great companies out there!!

    Natasha-CT

    682
  589. Oh, the range of colors is spectacular. I like to stitch with wool in a wide range of color, especially soft wool.

    684
  590. I would like this wool thread because I have been learning how to do crewel work. It would be fun to have this assortment to help build my stash.

    Cathie Bridwell

    686
  591. I haven’t use wool threads before. Loving them for their beautiful colours. Thank you for this generous giveaway!

    687
  592. Oh. My. God. Those colors are absolutely wonderful! I am a big fan of natural dyes, always wanted to try my hand at it. And I will some day! I’m a 16th century and earlier music buff who would love to do some embroidery in the style of that era – in my crazy quilt, of course! Gorgeous… oh my gosh, I think I’m going to have to go to embroidery fibers anonymous. I thought the fabric women were bad, I think perhaps we embroiderers are worse! After all, threads don’t take up as much room as fabric. Never mind the bins and bins of fabric I’ve got saved up for embroidery. They’re just an aside… uh-oh, denial is the first phase… : )

    688
  593. It is the colors……..to see them all together. It is like opening a new box of crayons! I can just see them now, hanging on my wall just begging to be touched. Chris Beresford from Michigan

    690
  594. Mary, I’d have to say I love the colors and that they’re wool which is even better. I am embroidering on a crazy quilt patchwork sweater that I finished knitting last year and the colors would work wonderfully with it–I selected colors that went close with what they recommended in the pattern and they are just too somber and the sweater needs some ‘oomph’ LOL

    691
  595. I’d like t o win the Elizabethan Range of hand dyed wool as I’m wanting to try my hand at crewel embroidery and I think the beautiful colors of the 100% lambs wool would be a great start.
    carolh

    692
  596. Beautiful colors, never tried crewel, but willing to give it a go. The colors are just too pretty not to use. lala

    696
  597. these are so beautiful. i love wool and i love crewel embroidery. I must confess though, these would live in small basket by my favorite chair for awhile-just to look at!! After they have had the proper amount of admiration and loving (you know, that holding and touching thing we all do with pretty threads and fibers) I would look for the perfect project!! Thank you for showing us these pretties!!!

    697
  598. Wool, beautiful wool, just can’t have too much of it. The colors of this selection are gorgeous! I have only embroidered with wool once, a bouquet of bullion roses on a wool eyeglass case, but keep meaning to do more of it. Country Bumpkin has some beautiful patterns in a number of publications of wool-embroidered blankets that I am longing to do. This beautiful selection would get me right on my way.

    698
  599. I have to admit I am addicted to threads (and other fibers) of varied colors. Lovely colors; lovely threads. This is a wonderful offering.

    699
  600. I’m a fan of natural dyes in general; they have a look you just can’t quite get with synthetic dyes. The historical aspect is an added bonus.

    700
  601. Well I must admit they are Beautiful! I would love to have this collection I have just started doing more crewel embroidery and do not have enough wool in my collection to start a new project

    Bernadette Garcia Albuquerque New Mexico

    701
  602. Wow! The prizes just keep getting awesomer – er, more awesome! Although I’d like to say I’m a fan of Elizabethan/Jacobean embroidery, it just isn’t so (I love everything else about the Tudors, tho). But, oh boy, am I in love with those colors!!

    702
  603. are u kidding? lol..these are gorgy! I want them becuz I love them and 2012 is the year I get back to mega stitchin…so so rich! good luck all! but really hoping you choose moi! ty for a chance

    704
  604. Oh it’s the colors!!!! I love the texture of crewel embroidery. That’s also why I like candle wicking. But the colors are so vibrant that I would love to be able to use them on my own rooster project. I also love Jacabean, Elizabethan, Edwardian and of course Victorian era handiwork.

    Thankyou!

    Melissa Bird

    705
  605. What a gorgeous array of colors! I would just LOVE to give them a try. I enjoy renaissance embroidery, but I would have to choose these for the colors. I am working on paraments for our church, and am so happy to put my love of crewel stitchery to use. Thank you for your designs!

    706
  606. Hi Mary,

    I am fairly new to embroidery, and am especially drawn to Jacobean Crewel embroidery. I’m really not sure if that falls w/in the 16th or 17th centuries. I’ll have to look into that! Anyway, I imagine using these beautiful wool threads in a Jacobean crewel project. Thanks for the opportunity to win these!

    ~Silvana

    707
  607. they are very pretty colors and hold up well also very easy to work with and will last so the items can be pasted down generations.thank you

    708
  608. Hi Mary,
    I went to the Woad dyeing site when you posted it sometime ago and found it interesting, as I stated in the earlier competition I love Crewel Embroidery and I do like working in wool, so to be lucky enough to win this would be a great joy.
    Cheers Flora

    709
  609. I love crewel work, I love Elizabethan embroidery and I love the beautiful colours too. Earlier in the year (oops I mean last year!) I finished a needle book with a crewel cover and I have been hoping to find some lovely wool threads to make an Elizabethan purse. I’m crossing my fingers for luck right now!

    710
  610. What gorgeous colors! What a treat it would be to stitch with these lovely threads. Thanks for the opportunity!

    711
  611. I like the threads just because they’re pretty! I like to keep things around me just because they’re nice to look at and fun to touch. Thank you for the nice giveaway!

    712
  612. The colour of those threads are beautiful. Just looking at them makes me happy!
    I am into England History,especially around Plantagenet-Tudor-Stuart period.Your Tudor rose will be on my new year’s resolution list.I wish you Happy new year.

    713
  613. What a beautiful range of colors! I would have to say that I’d like to use these colors for any wool project, though a Jacobean pattern would look great!

    714