WITH NEEDLE IN HAND

Do you get grumpy too if you aren't stitching daily?  I sure do....but, despite making it a priority, it doesn't always fit into the schedule.

My studio time has been somewhat limited these last few days, however there has been a VERY special project ongoing that I'll blog about as soon as I can. It's a Halloween costume for our new grandson....who will be 6 months old by that time.  DIL wanted it to be a surprise when she opens the package in San Francisco where they live so until it's finished an in CA, I'll have to keep it to myself.  I'm delighted they are anticipating it with excitement.  Soon, I'll share it with you......it's been such fun!

That leaves me with empty hands at tonight.  I looked for about an hour for the one and only project I have that needs finishing and I can't find it anywhere.  I know I took it along on one of my last teaching trips to show as before/after example of how beading can enhance a piece.  So......perhaps it found a new home that I'm not aware of....cause I don't remember selling it.  Though I may have gifted it, but I don't recall that either....geesh....

So......what does a gal do?  Well....she heads to her dwindling stash of resist dyed felted wool.

 ....and fondles them carefully, trying to decide which piece should be tackled next.  This little one (appx. 6" sq.) looks like a mask....or maybe an alien!  I'm partial to working with wool thread.......so I pulled colors that might work.

 Next of course, beads are selected.  Most of my beads are stored in clear storage containers....such as those used for embroidery floss or fishing lures.  The seed beads in one and bugles in another.....all organized by color.  My blues are overflowing so soon the greens will need to be moved to their own container.

It's a good idea to keep them away from bright light, and from heat and moisture.  A large walk in guest room closet is only steps away from my studio, so that's where they hang out.  Having them arranged by color allows me to grab several containers at a time so I can easily audition colors in my studio.  

If you've become bitten by the bead bug.....take the time to organize your beads and find a handy place to keep them that is accessible.  You won't use them if you have to dig in shoe boxes stored under the bed in your away at college kid's bedroom!