Yesterday, during the afternoon work session at the studio, I did something that I consider a pretty good sign. When I show it to you below, I’ll completely understand if you aren’t too impressed.
But it is significant, and I’ll tell you why.
It means I’m getting very close to finishing something!
And what is that something?

I stitched a small section on this embroidery project called Plique-a-jour: An Art Nouveau Floral in Silk & Gold. You might remember this project from last year. You can see the finish here.
Why is this a good sign?
Because when I start going through a project one more time, stitching small sections like this, it’s to capture a photo or a concept that I’m missing for the instructions. And while this approach doesn’t sound very efficient, it happens!
The funny thing is, as I started stitching this little section, I suddenly wanted to stitch the whole entire project again!

(Actually, that’s probably not very funny at this point.)
Anyway, my point is this: It’s a good sign when I start stitching small bits because it means I’m very close to having the instructions finished, which means I’m close to launching the kit.
Yay!!!
We’re going to have a Huge Party in the studio the day this kit goes out the door! You’re welcome to celebrate with us!
Plique-a-Jour is a “limited run” embroidery kit that will be available in the not-too-distant future. It is a higher end kit compared to the smaller stitch-along kits and the like that you see more regularly here on Needle ‘n Thread. This kit features silk ground fabric, a range of gorgeous silk threads, goldwork threads, embellishments, and a printed instructional booklet. All the details will be forthcoming!
I was happy to finish that little section and get a few clear, up-close photos that demonstrate a couple key concepts.
This morning, I’ll move on to another little section that needs the same attention, and then I’ll get back to the computer! So exciting!
There’s a lot more going on in the studio these days, too! We’ve got some other project progress to share. But there’s also a lot of office-ish work happening behind the scenes. For example, we have a new shredder. Anna (she’s my work side-kick) is in shred-heaven. Nothing is safe here Everything is headed to the shredder these days.
I’m almost afraid for my clothes…
…not to mention my skin.
(It’s always the quiet ones, isn’t it?)
Happy Wednesday!






Hahaha to “Shredder Heaven!” I can relate. There is something so cathartic about shredding documents. Like letting go of heavy baggage so you can move forward with a lighter load!
I’m so happy to hear that the release of this kit is getting closer! It’s a beautiful piece, and I really want to stitch it!
Hi
It’s very lovely – are you planning to make the instructions and pattern available as a download? I’m in the UK so can’t buy full kits.
Thanks
Jacky
Hi, Jacky, After I release the kit, I’ll take stock of things and make that decision. Thanks for asking!
Ah, yes, I remember that design. It is striking. I’ve got an art nouveau appliqué quilt book. Perhaps I will take another gander through this style with your upcoming release plan. There’s just something about your creation that calls to me.
Beautiful.
I look forward to this project!! A real beauty and a design that makes my heart sing!!!
Very exciting!
I’ve been excitedly this project before! So glad to see it’s on the horizon!
Oooh I’m so excited
Yea!! I was hoping that one was getting close.
Mary what a fun trip for you & Anna!! The pics were gorgeous! Thank you for sharing!
hope this will be shippable to Canada. Have been waiting a long time for it.