FlossTube Episode 27 - Why we stitch what we stitch, and a "scary" new start (February 21, 2024)

[@cathynanz9637]

Karen I just found your channel! I will be 76 in August. That being said I stitch what I want to stitch based upon what "speaks to me". I am working on "Shores of Hawk Run Hollow". I have that as my large piece and vary my time on smaller pieces. What a WONDERFUL tip about doing the squares with a full square every tenth stitch! I am working on the second block. What I have done to this point is marking along the border with regular sewing thread and making a loop to the side every tenth stitch. This is not a piece that I would want to make a mistake with those borders. Thank you so much! It will make this so much easier. I bought graph paper and plan to incorporate the initials of my husbands parents, my parents, and my son who passed away this past December.

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Cathy, I'm so glad you enjoyed the video and found the half cross/full cross every 10 stitches helpful. I know it has helped me as I'm stitching and wanted to share it. What a touching tribute to family how have passed on your Shores piece. I love that idea. Thank you for sharing it. 🙂

[@lorettahenderson8979]

Beautiful video Karen, with the best of instructions...best wishes ❤❤

[@karencombsstudio]

Thanks, Loretta! So glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for your nice note! 🙂

[@marydamico8552]

Thanks for such an informative flosstube episode! I learned so many new things!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Mary, I am so glad you enjoyed the episode today and found it helpful. I appreciate your nice note so much, thank you! 🙂

[@elainegavelek2488]

Thanks. Great video. Loved the Q & A.

[@karencombsstudio]

So glad you enjoyed the video and I appreciate your nice note, thank you! 🙂

[@bethhuisman1722]

Another great and informative video Karen! It's your neighbor over here in Murfreesboro. Sounds like I'll be seeing you again at 2 upcoming retreats this year. I thought about why I start a specific project...it's all the reasons you gave, plus when I need to de-stress I picked up a red sampler. One color its soothing and calming to me.

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Beth! Looking forward to the retreats this coming year. 🙂 So appreciate your nice note, and thank you for your comment about why you stitch what you stitch. I never thought about it but stitching a certain color can be calming. Never thought about it in that way, thank you for mentioning that. 🙂

[@das0421]

Karen, I just found your channel too! So, like you, I picked cross-stitch back up in the last two years after not having done any since the 80s! I've learned more tips on your Floss Tubes than I have in all of the other Floss Tubes combined! Thank you! I watched 3 of yours today (while I was doing laundry, cleaning house, etc.) and I wanted to answer one of your questions -- tho I'm not sure from which Floss Tube you asked. But I choose my projects based on gifts. I do cross-stitches for friends and I try to match them to their taste or interests. Beyond that, I'm strictly decor. I have to say tho that Im disappointed that so much of charts that are introduced are similar. My fav that I ever did was a botanical print Lily. I wish there were more of that type out there. In the meantime, I'm doing what's available! Right now: Tiny Modernist The Nutcracker Tree. Again, a gift.. Anyway I love your channel!

[@karencombsstudio]

I’m so glad you have enjoyed the videos and have found them helpful. Thank you for sharing your stitching journey, I enjoyed reading about it and also about what you love to stitch. Thank you again. 🙂

[@marysorensen220]

Thank you so much for the very informative video! I’m a 14-count Aida stitcher and I now know more than I did before! Really appreciate you. 😁

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Mary, so glad you enjoyed the video and that you found it helpful. Thank you so much for your nice note! 🙂

[@kade1699]

Oh, Karen! I have long admired Ann Tong Uffindel and seeing yours is an inspiration - I can see why you can't put it down!! Thank you for the pleasure of another flosstube from you!

[@karencombsstudio]

I’m so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for your nice note. I appreciate it so much. 🙂🙂

[@beckyess7399]

In response to your question, what I choose to stitch covers a lot of territory. One of my more recent starts had to do with color. I was ready to move on from Christmas/Winter and move to Spring colors. You mentioned a “connection.” I inadvertently started stitching a little project from inspiration I got from the 911 Stitcher. She had done a beautiful monochromatic sampler in red, so I wanted to do a red project as well. It turns out that I ended up stitching one to honor my sainted parents. It brought me so much joy to think of them, and the monochromatic reason became secondary. Sometimes I do start-alongs, and sometimes I even finish them! Thanks for keeping me company this evening! ❤ See you next time!

[@karencombsstudio]

@@beckyess7399 I loved reading your comment, thank you posting it. 🙂

[@sandranelson8445]

I just found you. You're a gem. Thanks for your teachings.

[@karencombsstudio]

@@sandranelson8445 Thanks, Sandra! 🙂

[@lisagallegos6842]

What a great and informative flosstube video! I'm also working on Ann Tong Uffindell. I have the border in but still need to add the all the flowers and the upper left corner completed. What a joy working with the silks...my first time using them.

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Lisa, thank you so much for your nice note and I’m so glad you enjoyed the video. I am really enjoying working on an in the silks, they just have such a beautiful sheen. . . 🙂 Thanks again

[@harrietmcsloy4512]

Love listening to your videos Karen. I continue to learn. Sometimes just the smallest, most obvious thing like a full cross every ten stitches when ‘one legging’ my way round a border! Thank you too for reminding me of plenty of other things I had also forgotten. Now as to how I choose which project to start next …. I follow my heart and pick up that chart that is singing loudest to me. Maybe it is the flowers, the colour, the memories it evokes, or just something different I want to try be it technique, a particular linen or thread. Having said that as I am currently stitching away from home and bought a limited selection with me, all hidden in a project bag, I keep surprising myself and my daughter by just starting the first one that gets pulled out of the bag. Each time my heart just says ‘Oh yessss, I really want to do that one’! There is something to be said for only seeing the one pattern. Thank you for all you contribute to this wonderful community and the happy hours I spend stitching with you.

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Harriet, so glad you enjoyed the video and found it helpful. Thank you also for your lovely comment. I appreciate it so much. 🙂

[@cricketsstudios]

What a fantastic flosstube! I will also be starting Shores of Hawk Run Hollow. Nancy, the Disorderly Stitcher on flosstube is hosting a stitchalong beginning Feb 29. I start what I like, and Nancy gave me the perfect "reason" to begin this large project. I am an 100% Aida stitcher and really appreciate your discussion on Aida-friendly charts. I also use the R&R floss winder and recycle all of my unused threads back into my stash for future use.

[@karencombsstudio]

I'm so glad you enjoyed the video and thanks so much for your note! I will have to check out the Shores SAL. Thanks for letting me now. 🙂

[@kathycullenstern9652]

Excellent flosstube. Your Q&A segment was terrific. I’ve been stitching since the 80’s. New stitchers now have so much more to learn than back then when fabric choices were white or cream, Aida was the mainstream fabric and DMC was king. No overdyes or variegated choices. Design and color are the two things that attract me to a potential project. I like samplers, historical designs and charts about home. I don’t do charts about holidays, except Christmas. The designers I’ve stitched the most lately have been Jean Farish and Judy Whitman. I’ll see you at Hobby House in October. I have purchased 2 HATS samplers but have not started them. I think my leap day start will be one of the designs Nicola sent us for homework. Happy Stitching!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Kathy! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you so much for your nice note! I will see you in October! It should be a fantastic weekend! 🙂🙂

[@KarenHammer-w6e]

Hi , I’m a Karen too. You had a lot of good info on Aida stitching. I’m new at counted cross stitch. Looking forward to watching more of you

[@karencombsstudio]

So glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for your nice note. 🙂🙂

[@MaryAnnArnold]

Karen, your tip about turning the needle around when threading has saved me a lot of aggravation. Thank you! Like you, there are many reasons I choose to stitch on a particular pattern - the designer, the colors on the chart, the subject matter - I stitch a lot of holiday smalls for my triangle table and three tier shelf in my foyer and sometimes connections. I will be stitching on My Funny Valentine soon since it is the first song my husband learned on the piano after his retirement.And Prairie Schooler's The Village Green looks a lot like a small Pennsylvania area that is close to where we live.

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Mary Ann, i’m so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for your nice note. I’m very happy to hear the tip about turning the needle was helpful. I know it has helped me numerous times and I’m glad it was helpful to you. I enjoyed reading your comment about your stitching, thank you for sharing it with me 🙂

[@michelemead841]

Thank you for sharing all the tips and tricks ❤ I love stitching things that make me feel happy and reminds me of memories growing up. My family roots are southern and I love my memories ❤

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Michele, so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for your comment. I do enjoy the memories that often accompany what I’m stitching, I guess I’m right there with you. 🙂

[@snowbirdgirl10]

Loved watching , listening and learning from you! I just found your floss tube and learned so much! I choose my stitching most often as gifts. I rarely make the time to stitch for me but have a few projects I want to do for my home soon. I’m stretching myself and trying linen rather than Aida on my personal projects.

[@karencombsstudio]

So glad you enjoyed the video and thanks so much for your nice note! I enjoyed reading it. 🙂

[@gia8070]

More & more it's process for me, but I need to love the piece. Interspersed with my primitives, I've been enjoying sampler motifs like flower bouquets where I get to use my silk collection, and typically make my own conversions. I'm currently stitching Susanna Eccles and will be starting a modified Jane Hearth. I love your videos!!!

[@SusanSmith-yh3ue]

You explain things very nicely..thank you

[@karencombsstudio]

Thank you, Susan! 🙂

[@barbarahouser]

Karen, I am a Night Owl, but doing a fabulous video at 10 PM..WOW! I love the Uffindel sisters but have yet to start a HATS Sampler. I will get there eventually... but as I'm finishing up one piece and know that something new is coming up, I look through all my kitted projects and when one screams "Pick Me!" I jump right in! I loved the egg basket sitting atop your DMC Thread Box! In my younger days, I made many baskets and gave them to family, but kept only a couple. I wish I had more but at this point with arthritic hands, holding a needle is much less painful and still brings me the joy of creative arts. Thanks for spending time with us and see you next time! xoxo

[@pbadger18]

Thanks Karen as always enjoyed your video.❤

[@karencombsstudio]

So glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for your note! 🙂

[@KayeTaylorE]

I'm a first time watcher and I wanted to say how much I enjoyed your tips and the answers to previous questions. It was very informative .

[@karencombsstudio]

So glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for your nice note, I appreciate it very much. 🙂

[@neilstephen6761]

Love your new start Happy stitching

[@karencombsstudio]

Thank you! 😊

[@conniehaas1039]

Such a good question Karen. I think my project driver is somewhat seasonal, but also, can I see it in my home? If it is really clear to me where it will go and what it will add to our home, I usually can't hardly wait to get it put together and start. I scour the second hand shops for old frames too. So sometimes I even have a finishing method before it gets started! Oh what fun this is and how you all inspire me!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Connie, thanks so much for your nice note and I'm so glad you enjoyed the video. 🙂🙂

[@lindarubano4562]

Wonderful flosstube..I learned so much…you are a wonderful teacher..also your work is so beautiful….I hope some day to be half as good as you with my stitching…I am the girl you recommended trying 25 count lugana to try to eventually try linen…I finished a small house which was actually a quilt shop..I enjoyed it so next I will try 28 count lugana..hopefully I will get there..happy stitching !

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Linda, so glad you enjoyed the video and I appreciate your sweet note very much. I’m so happy to hear that you enjoyed working on the Lugana!! That is wonderful!! Just keep stitching and trying new things. I’m amazed at the difference in my stitching from even a year ago. I think it’s just repetition, keep stitching and keep trying new things. . . . Thanks again for your note !🙂🙂

[@lindarubano4562]

@@karencombsstudio just keep stitching…just like quilting ..I tell people someone teaches you the quilting stitch and you practice it for the rest of your life…Thankyou again

[@owlbestitching8839]

Your video, Karen, was so full of information and tips. Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to share this! I enjoyed seeing all your projects and progresses. Happy Stitching❣️

[@karencombsstudio]

I’m so glad you enjoyed the video and found it helpful. Thanks so much for your nice comment, I appreciate it very much! 🙂

[@Norie8311]

I stitch charts that I feel a connection to and that bring me joy

[@karencombsstudio]

Thanks for your comment, Norie! 🙂

[@bonitaharms9429]

Hi Karen, Just want to thank you for a very educational flosstube. You explain things so simply and clear. I store all my floss (mostly DMC) in floss bags and I use an index card in the bag to help hold its shape. The floss color and/or number is written on this card as well as the front of the bag. I then put the floss on bobbins and all extra skeins of this floss is added to the bag. When I add the last skein to a bobbin I then write the number/color on my list so it can be restocked. Any leftover thread when done stitching is added to its color bag. The floss bags are stored by number or kind on floss rings in storage boxes. When I kit a project the floss bag is taken from the numbered group ring and added to a project ring. This is the only way I can keep my floss protected from being a knotted mess. Thanks again for your stitching lesson.

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Bonita, I’m so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for your nice note. I enjoyed reading about your DMC storage. Thank you for taking the time to share it with me.🙂 Thanks again for your note. 🙂

[@pat5840]

Enjoyed your video. Thank you for offering suggestions on where to find items and how you use them. That helps so much! Could I get a link for your brown floss tags, please? You’re a good and patient teacher!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Pat, So glad you enjoyed the video and I appreciate your note so much. I put links to many of the items I mentioned in the episode description. Here is a direct link to the Kraft Tags: amzn.to/48aoCfJ Thanks again!

[@sharonrobinson9958]

Thank you for another fabulous video! I love seeing your stitching!!💖✨💫💝

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Sharon, so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for your lovely note. 🙂

[@grmanat]

Starting Shores of Hawk Run Hollow on Leap Day as a SAL with The Disorderly Stitcher. My chart and fabric is arriving today! Many times what I stitch is the connection. I just finished Spring Has Sprung and when I was little my Grandma would say that verse. I stitched What A Friend We Have In Jesus because that was one of my mom’s favorite hymns. Then there are several others. Doing Shores of Hawk Run because I love the east coast.

[@karencombsstudio]

I’m so glad you enjoyed the video. And thank you for your note. I enjoyed reading about your stitching journey. I agree, Shores does remind me of the East Coast, I love that whole series. Thanks again.🙂

[@peterbrown2305]

Karen, you are such a wonderful teacher! Your calm pace and easy manner make listening and learning a wonderful experience. I loved the questions you answered. So often a question will be something I’ve wondered, and it is so nice to hear that someone else has wondered it too! Your answers are complete and you never make us feel silly for asking. You are undertaking a lot! I am a very slow stitcher, and if I see a pattern that catches my eye, I try to wait and see how I feel about it down the road. A time or two I’ve ordered quickly and when it comes time to stitch the item, I’m not so enchanted but feel obliged because I’ve purchased it. The several pieces I’m currently working on have been in the works for some time, but I still like them! Economy keeps me from buying a lot of fabric and patterns, but I love to see flosstubers purchase and share their pieces. I enjoy them vicariously! Carol in Texas

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Carol, thank you for your lovely note, I appreciate it so much. I’m so happy that you enjoyed the video and found it helpful. That made my day! I enjoyed reading your comment about your stitching process. Thank you for sharing it. 🙂

[@SusanSmith-yh3ue]

First time watching...I will be back I'm sure ..I'm a slow stitcher but love the things you showed they will inspire me

[@karencombsstudio]

@@SusanSmith-yh3ue Hi Susan, so glad you enjoyed the video and thanks so much for your note. 🙂

[@lorriemoreau8894]

I’m a newer subscriber and just wanted to say how much I enjoy your flosstubes. I’ve gone back and watched some older ones too. Xx

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Lorrie! Thank you so much for subscribing and I’m so glad you enjoyed the video. Thank you for your nice note, I appreciate it so much! 🙂

[@mm-qm9zh]

Hi, Karen. I just wanted to tell you how very much I enjoy your videos. Your calm, down-to-earth spirit, and the lovely way you have of sharing your knowledge and your beautiful projects is such a gift! I always learn something from you, and I really appreciate all your hard work and sharing all this goodness with us. Thank you! ☺️ Meline

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Meline, aw, thanks so much for your sweet comment. I’m so glad you enjoyed the video, thanks so much for letting me know. 🙂🙂

[@annadeplanna8297]

Karen!! I so enjoyed seeing all the possible projects and what you are stitching now! Especially appreciate the instruction and information such as theAida vs linen etc, and eye of the needle may need to rotate in order to thread!! You provide the lovely eye candy projects and inspiration! Enjoy all you can and thank you again!!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Ann, you are very welcome and I’m so glad you found the video helpful. I appreciate your comments so much.! 🙂

[@mariesaur753]

Love your flosstube videos. I always learn something and love looking at your projects. Thanks

[@karencombsstudio]

I'm so glad you enjoyed the video and thanks so much for your nice note!! 🙂

[@bethflorentino3169]

Thank Karen for another informative floss tube 🤩 You are one of my favorites 🥰

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Beth, so glad you enjoyed this video. Thank you so much for your sweet note, made my day! 🙂

[@Savannahstitcher]

Oh, I just found your Floss Tube and I am so glad I did. First I want to say that I was heavily into Crosstitch before during and a little after Covid. Of course during lockdown that’s all I did for days on end. Well, about six months ago, I got tired of it and put it away and Started doing a lot of English paper piecing and punch needle. Well, I’ve been missing Crosstitch and so I’ve decided to add that to the other two things I’m doing so that I can have something different to do each day. I just rotate one day, punch, needle, one day, EPP, one day Crosstitch. I was really excited when you started talking about Aida, because I am strictly an Aida stitcher and always have been. I mostly stitch on 16 count. I could do 18 count but I usually find that the things on Stitching are a little bit too small so I stick with 16 count. Anyway, I am now a subscriber and looking forward to more videos.

[@karencombsstudio]

I’m so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you so much for your nice note! 🙂

[@nancywright7343]

Thank you for such an informative flosstube. I enjoyed hearing your answers to questions people asked. Like you, I choose projects for many reasons, but mostly because the design speaks to me about myself or others. Your work on Anne is beautiful; so glad you worked up the courage to start her!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Nancy, so glad you enjoyed the video and I appreciate your nice note so much!! 🙂

[@SharonCarbine]

Karen, the basket sitting on top of your DMC floss box is gorgeous! Lucky you!!!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Sharon, I just found that basket at our local antique mall. I couldn’t resist it. I meant to show it up close in the video and forgot. It has the most interesting woven handle. I’ll have to try and remember to show it next time.🙂 Thanks so much for your note

[@Linda_James]

I do projects because a lot of the time it’s a gift. Sometimes it’s the colors in the piece. February 29th I’m starting my first SAL with Carolyn Zook. We’re starting The Hummingbird Garden from Just Cross Stitch

[@karencombsstudio]

Thanks for your note Linda, your SAL sounds lovely. 🙂

[@kckoehler1766]

Karen- I love your videos. I always learn something and come away inspired. Your method of outlining a box or frame by using 1/2 stitch is brilliant. Going back and completing the X after things match is great. Then to top it off with the every 10th stitch to make the X for keeping count was genius. THANK YOU. My selections to stitch are based totally on my ‘feelings’ with the occasional gift or holiday piece. Happy stitching.

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi KC, so glad you enjoyed the episode and found it helpful. The 1/2 cross with a full cross every 10 has been so helpful to me and I wanted to share it. It's all these little tricks and tips that often make such a difference. 🙂 Thanks so much for your note!

[@annieann99]

Hi Karen, just found your channel. I choose my stitches based on what I love, I look for dogs, Bears nature centered projects. Also I take into consideration if my kids would like it or would end up tossed in goodwill. I’m not really a sampler stitcher, just a few have caught my eye.

[@karencombsstudio]

So glad you’ve joined us, I appreciate your note so much. Thank you for your comment about what you like to stitch, I enjoyed reading it very much. 🙂

[@lisadolson6598]

Hi Karen! This was my first time watching your floss tube and I really enjoyed seeing your projects and listening to you! I had not stitched for a few years and now I’m playing catch up. I have soooo many things that I had kitted in the past and still love, and now have acquired new things as the industry has changed quite a bit. I’m choosing projects to work on for a lot of the reasons you talked about - a SAL, wanted to stitch it for a long time, saw something new, looked fun, etc. Thank you for sharing! Take care!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Lisa, welcome! I’m so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you so much for your comment! I appreciate it very much 🙂

[@paulettecurt-costa8902]

Thank you for another wonderful video! Your stitching and choice of patterns is right up my alley! I love all the tips and useful information as well. Take care! ❤

[@karencombsstudio]

Thanks, Paulette! So glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for your nice note! 🙂

[@angelasawyer6714]

For my bigger projects, I selected pieces I HAVE to do. Then I can add smaller items during or in between projects 😊

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Angela, thank you so much for your comment. 🙂 I I love this idea, do the pieces I simply HAVE to do. 👍👍

[@aredeemedsheep]

What a treasure trove of great information and tips! I need to go back and watch your other videos. 😊 Thank you!

[@karencombsstudio]

So glad you enjoyed it and very happy to hear it was helpful. 🙂🙂 Thank you for your nice note!

[@betsabeabarleycorn]

Hello! Thank you for another great flosstube! I like your flosstube because I always learn something and you don't waste time telling the numbers of stitching, percentage of work done and all those boring things... you don't change the colors very often and you always choose beautiful design. I will adopt your ideas for stitching the boxes, use half stitch and every ten do a full cross stitch. I think it's really useful. I think that I have Remember Me by Teresa Kogut that has a straight border that I have to tackle. About your question: for me the first thing when I choose a pattern is the design: I like quirk and weird sampler, mostly reproductions. I usually don't choose symmetrical design where you have to stitch two times the same motifs. I think they are lovely to have on my wall, but that are tedious to stitch. Second: i like big reproduction sampler, because they are complex, full of different motifs. Third: the colors. I prefer warm earhy colors, with dark greens, reds or burgundy, browns, ochras, dark blue. This is because I like folk style and that is why I do two over two. I like to see the colors! I don't really get the cold colors, and one over two on small counts. I am not drawn to teal, grey, or light greens. I like to have one muted design in my wips (I have Christmas Garden and I didn't change the colors), because I like the effect of muted colors on fabric. Sometime I found that some reproductions samplers have a selection of colors that are too bright and light, even if the designs are wonderful, so I might change some of the colors with darker ones. I can choose a design because of the origins: for example I would like to stitch Madame Tougat by Coleur Tourtourelle, because I like the history of it, as it was stitched by 17 gilrs in a french school, or I stitched the Squirrel Bristol Sampler because I liked the design, but also in honor of the kids that were in the Bristol Orphanage. I can choose a design because it speaks about a book that I love, like the Owl Forest Embroidery Treasure Island Sal... I think that there are many reasons to choose one pattern, but mostly is the design or the colors. I have one question for you, maybe, if you like, can address this your flosstubes: I want to know why do you stich on 40ct, because I have never used 40ct. I have 36ct and I like it, but it's not so easy to use for me as 30 or 32ct. I have to pay much more attention to counting. I know I can adapt to 40ct and I use a magnifier, so I don't think it will be so difficult, if not the first time. I like to know why you (and so many others stitchers) prefer to use higher counts. Thanks again & Happy Stitching!

[@karencombsstudio]

Thank you for your lovely comment, I enjoyed reading it so much!! I’m so glad you enjoyed this episode. It was fun to put together. 🙂 As to your question why I prefer 40 count linen. Hmmm, that is a good question. For me, I like the scale of the design on a higher count linen. I have no idea why, but I really do prefer the smaller scale. Let me ponder that a bit more, I may address that on a future floss tube. Great question! Thanks again for your wonderful comment!🙂

[@nfender3436]

Great flosstube! I just found you and thoroughly enjoyed stitching and listening. You had great tips ( loved the one legged border count!) and you have really tempted me to try a HAtS sampler ❤. To answer your question I pick my stitches by how it makes me feel. Stitching for me should be happy stuff.

[@karencombsstudio]

I'm so glad you enjoyed the video and I appreciate your note! I agree, we should stitch whatever it is (for us) that makes us happy. 🙂 Thanks again!

[@nancymarsh2540]

Love your videos! I have found that the new DMC bobbin stickers fall off. I have some that are really old and they stick well. I always use a Sharpie to write the number on the plastic bobbin.

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Nancy, I'm so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for your nice note! Thanks for the tip about the stickers. I will have to search my stash to see if Y have any of the older ones. Thanks again! 🙂

[@pkwallace8758]

First time watcher/subscriber and a new cross stitcher. I have crafted, quilted and sewn for years but have loved watching the flosstube community! Thank you for taking time to answer simple questions for us newbies. Your personality if very sweet and encouraging and obviously you have a wealth of information. I am trying to decide what to try first. Any thoughts on a designer for new stitchers?

[@karencombsstudio]

I'm so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for being a subscriber! I appreciate your nice note so much!🙂 As far as what to start first, hmm.... that is a hard one. I had the same problem when I returned back to cross stitch. I went to 123stitch.com and looked over their charts. I believe the first chart I purchased was a smaller Plum Street. I decided to get the linen and DMC floss all together when I ordered. I didn't try silk until sometime later. There are so many designers, it is hard to pick. You could always start with a small pillow to try a new count of linen or evenweave (if you wish to move from Aida). I found once I started, I wanted to try everything, different counts, different colors, different flosses. Doing some smalls is a good way to try things out. Of course, I started with a smaller piece and for my second start, went right a a large piece (Houses of Hawk Run Hollow!). . . which is fine. I work on it here and there, in-between my other projects. Bottom line, start with something that speaks to you. (Hope that helps. )🙂 Thanks again for your nice note!

[@pkwallace8758]

Thank you for taking the time to reply!

[@cindyathome]

A fabulous floss tube! Tons of information without a lot of cross stitch terms I don’t know yet. Thank you! ❤

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Cindy, i’m so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you so much for your nice note. 🙂

[@LorraineSmith-pz7eg]

Thanks so much for the information regarding the needle eye and difficulty with threading at times. Brilliant!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Lorraine, so glad the needle eye tip was helpful. Sometimes it’s the simplest things that make a huge difference, glad you enjoyed that tip. Thanks so much for your note! 🙂

[@ksenabacks3002]

Hello Karen, and thank you so much for your videos. I learned a lot from it. Greetings from Germany

[@karencombsstudio]

You are so welcome! I’m so glad you enjoyed it. 🙂🙂🙂

[@kckoehler1766]

Oh thank you Karen. Meanwhile-many happy stitches to you.

[@karencombsstudio]

Happy stitching, KC! 🙂🙂

[@lindaskinner5887]

Thank you for another wonderful and informative flosstube.

[@karencombsstudio]

Thanks Lynda, so glad you enjoyed it and thank you for your nice note! 🙂

[@craftylibrarian5709]

I always love to find you on Flosstube. This video did not disappoint! Your stitching and projects are exquisite. The Disorderly Stitcher is having a stitch along with The Shores of Hawk Run Hollow. I will be starting it soon. Stitching HRH is so much fun! Your two starts are the best!

[@karencombsstudio]

I’m so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for your nice note. I’ll have to check out the SAL for Shores. Thank you so much for letting me know! 🙂

[@madamevavra]

My decisions are based on what calls me the most joined with how much do I already have going and how big are they. Your full cross every ten stitches is genius. And it was me who asked about Ann Tong Uffindell and I’m buying the rest of my silks this week at Keepsakes. I’m debating between the color “linen” and “sand dollar” that I bought at Colorado Cross Stitch at Christmas unless I can find some Lakeside that makes my heart sing or maybe some Sleeping Bear like yours. WOW that’s pretty! I’m glad you are having such fun with it! I’ve been debating the Charlotte Warrington too but think I’m going to at least buy it and then see how long I can keep my hands off it! Sound familiar? 😂

[@karencombsstudio]

Thanks so much for your comment. I loved reading it and I’m right with you! 😂 I thought of your comment when I started Ann Tong. Said I hadn’t planned to start and yet, here we are. 😂😂😂 Let me know what you decide for your linen. I’m really pleased with Sleeping Bear. Thornfield is another N&F that I’ve used and is a favorite. So many lovely options. 🙂 So glad you found the video helpful and thanks again. For your note. 🙂

[@beckyess7399]

In response to your question, what I choose to stitch covers a lot of territory. One of my more recent starts had to do with color. I was ready to move on from Christmas/Winter and move to Spring colors. You mentioned a “connection.” I inadvertently ended up with a “connection” piece when I started stitching a little project from inspiration I got from the 911 Stitcher. She had done a beautiful monochromatic sampler in red, so I wanted to do a red project as well. It turns out that I ended up stitching one to honor my sainted parents. It brought me so much joy to think of them, and the monochromatic reason became secondary. Sometimes I do start-alongs, and sometimes I even finish them! Thanks for keeping me company this evening! ❤ See you next time!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Becky, so glad you enjoyed the video and thanks so much for your comment. I enjoyed reading it and hearing your thoughts very much! 🙂

[@reneedavey5010]

Karen, what a fantastic video! Always full of good info! For thread organization I use a combo of floss drops & bags similar to floss away bags but I’m too tight to buy the brand name. When working with DMC or fancy floss I keep them on a floss drop. For storage I keep them in a ziploc type bag with the Mfgr and name or number of the floss marked on the outside using a label maker. They are sorted by mfgr and in either numerical or alphabetical order on rings, but I think I may need to move to a fridge bin or drawer system. Having them in the bag allows me storage space for duplicate skeins and “scraps”. I don’t have the fancy DMC drawers, but if I did I think I would use that for a master set. Just thought I’d share that. I am curious how you keep things organized when you work with 103’s? I am getting ready to make my first attempt using them…any tips in general? Thanks!!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Renee, thanks so much for your lovely note and I'm glad you enjoyed the video! I enjoyed reading about your system. As far as my 100.3, the one's I'm currently using for Hannah Campbell and Sarah Milthrop are in a little antique 2-drawer chest. Each sampler has it's own drawer. For my extra 100.3 (which I don't have many yet), I keep them in an antique sewing thread chest. Right now they are fitting in a drawer. I may have to adjust as I get more. 🙂 (I've seen several FlossTubers using clear plastic make-up drawers and think that is quite a good idea as well. ) Thanks again for your note!

[@gourmettexas]

Love all your helpful hints 😊

[@karencombsstudio]

You are very welcome. I'm so glad you enjoyed the episode and thanks so much for your note! 🙂

[@jlprimitives7457]

I have watched your videos before but am a new subscriber. I really enjoyed your discussions today and the fact that you "dig in" lol. It's nice to get into the details. For me, it can be many sources of inspiration to why I start a project. Like you, I enjoy finding that connection with a piece. It can be the color palette, something that brings back a memory or a suggestion from a favorite Flosstuber. After stitching so many years I have favorite designers from bygone times that I enjoy going back to stitch too. It's like visiting an old friend lol.

[@karencombsstudio]

I'm so glad you enjoyed this episode and thank you for subscribing! Thank you so much for your note. I enjoyed reading it. I like the idea of visiting designers from the past. I find myself searching out designers/charts from the past as well. Some of them are now gone, but their wonderful work lives on. 🙂 Thanks again!

[@athenabesa380]

Thank you for your tip-I, too, order parts then forget what they are for 😂. Everything look wonderful.

[@karencombsstudio]

You are so welcome! So glad it was helpful. 🙂

[@daisysew1417]

Enjoyed your video so much especially the answers to questions and the help you gave. Many thanks and hope you managed to sleep.🎉

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Daisy, thanks so much for your nice note and I am so glad you found the video helpful. 🙂 I did manage to get some sleep . 🙂🙂 Thanks again!

[@sharonpatnode454]

Just joined your channel…really enjoyed this video…

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Sharon, so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for subscribing. I appreciate your nice note. 🙂

[@jackieahlstrom]

Wonderful video, as always. It warms my ❤ to know you have the acorn and needle book close by as you stitch. Since coming back to cross stitch just last year, I find myself drawn to certain designers who I seem to share a similar design aesthetic with. That said, I choose what I’m stitching based on a feeling. I love fonts/lettering so I did a marking sampler. I have a couple of Bristol-esque ones waiting in the wings. Right now I’m doing a pattern with birds that is more like Berlin-work-it’s beautiful and also I haven’t done anything like it before. I love the sense of discovery with each project, as well. I have found that I’m all about the process! I know floss drops are all the rage but I keep my DMC’s on bobbins and overdyed floss on their original tags. It helps me differentiate the brands. As well, I organize the overdyeds by brand, then color, rather than name. We all have to find what works best. Thanks so much for another informative video!

[@jackieahlstrom]

I almost forgot, I love anything that has a connection to history and a story to tell. Knowing who the original stitchers of a design might have been, and some of their story, gives us a connection to the past. I just love that.

[@paulap1237]

Thank you so much for the great content!! I learned so much. 😊

[@karencombsstudio]

You are so welcome! I’m so glad you enjoyed it and thank you for your nice note. 🙂

[@juliemiller6920]

"James and the Giant Peach!" I am so glad to hear that someone else has the same thought that I have whenever I see that! I don't have any plans to stitch that, but it is beautiful. This is the first time I have found you and this was certainly a pleasure to watch. Thank you for all of the wonderful information. I am an aida stitcher but a linen stitcher "wanna be!" I'm trying to move to lugana and am finding it difficult. I've watched countless videos on this and they all show the same thing - how to count from one stitch to the next - only side by side. Do you have any tips on how to count when stitches are farther apart? I always seem to be one or two off. Any help would be appreciated! Have a happy, stitchy week!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Julie, so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for your nice note. I did a little demo on one of my earlier videos about stitching on linen. I will have to look at my notes and see which one it was. I will either add it in this reply or mention it in my next video. I believe one of my demos about lugana is in my Flosstube #17 kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqevlJpta859rqs Thanks again for your note. 🙂

[@sharonbeck-hl7cf]

Sometimes I stitch what I have an urgency on. Let me share, two years ago I didn’t know what I didn’t know I was finishing one a month stitching monogamously. Then I purchased several or so charts that I didn’t realize just how really big they were. Stitching monogamously on Hoity Toity was brutal! Finally it got put aside and I started other charts, Blue Rhapsody,yep another big one then I grabbed some smaller ones….. this year I joined WIPCO. It has helped me sooo much, January 2 new starts ( which I finish in January and one other finish also in January. I also made great progress on Bewitched Swamp. February has put on my Lowry stand 12 days on Blue Rhapsody, finishing the alphabet, and then 12 Days on Hoity Toity, I am now at the half way point. I was glad to set it aside. I guess it’s that particular linen that doesn’t warm my heart. Today I am eagerly starting Lori Holts Home Town Neighborhood Tea House. I just kind of slipped that one in as it wasn’t on my WIPCO board. I alway allowed a few days to “play”. I have many I can’t wait to start and finish this year’s and I will fit them in, in a constructive manner because of my WIPCO board. My larger stitches come up frequently throughout the year. I hope to finish Hoity Toity this year (my husband laughs. I have left the last number on the finishing day blank, we shall see. I also want to finish Bewitched Swamp by Owl Forest this year and get her hanging on our wall to enjoy. Thank you so very much for sharing your time with us. I enjoyed having lunch with you today.

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Sharon, I’m so glad you enjoyed the video, it was fun to have lunch with you! 🙂🙂 Thank you so much for your comment. I loved reading about your stitching progress! Thanks again!

[@1856BrickHouse]

I don't keep records, don't use a planner or Book of Days, but I seem to have an unwritten list in my head about what gets started, "who's up next." I have a lot of fully kitted projects, big and small, I never let new releases pass by without buying and kitting what I love. But I always intuitively seem to know how long I've had them, and will start the older ones before the newer ones. They all get their turn eventually.

[@karencombsstudio]

Thanks so much for your note. Love your comment about “they will all get their turn.” 🙂

[@lindafrazier7850]

I love love loved your video! Thank u for the tip on stitching around the borders doing one leg and full cross every 10 th stitch!! I’m definitely going to try it. I have discovered a love for samplers and this will be so helpful. I am now going to go look at the Uffindel pattern. lol. Thank you for a wonderful flosstube! I just subscribed so I can’t wait till the next ones. I’ll be going back to view your previous posts too 😊

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Linda, so glad you enjoyed the video and found it helpful. I appreciate your note so very much. 🙂🙂

[@cynthiasalow6055]

Thank you for your video you have inspired me to start Ann Tong Unfindale. I am so glad you decided to stitch the shores. I stitched that in memory of my dad i put his name in the blue block. It makes me so happy when I look at it and when I was stitching it. I do have a question what fabric and count did you start yours on?

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Cynthia, so glad you enjoyed the video and thanks so much for your note. I’ve been working on Ann Tong and it is such a pretty sampler. Just love the colors in it. I love your idea of his name in the blue block of Shores. 🙂 I am using Lakeside Linen Sandune 40 count I believe. Thanks again! 🙂

[@ContentedNeedleworkerKim]

Hi Karen! I’m new here, and subscribed of course! Fruit Tree, are you going to start it? I’m loving it! I also just started GH as my leap year start. See you next video!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Kim! So glad you enjoyed the video, I enjoy your floss tube as well, one of my favorites! I haven’t started fruit tree yet, since it has so much over one, and I am already working on Ann Tong Uffindell with lots of one, I thought I’d wait a bit. 😉. (but I’m itching to start it.!) GH is such a lovely sampler, I just love the colors. I will be starting it closer to June, at least that’s the plan. Just never know when the itch to start something new will strike. Thanks so much for your nice note! 🙂🙂

[@AnneSTLMO]

Well, Karen, my KZbin algorithm finally decided to add you to my FlossTube mix. And I am so glad it did. Wonderful video. Informative and useful. BTW, I decide on a pattern because of colors, because of the geometry, because of symmetry and because of the overall artistic value (in my eyes). While I am sure flosses "fancier" than DMC are wonderful, I haven't branched out to them. Like you, I have a full set of all DMC colors. I purchase new skeins when I kit up a project. My full set is the reserve. Whatever I have left from a project I put back into its FlossAway bag in my full set stash. Now, I must admit, I have LOTS of B5200 white, but, well, I'm not worried. I usually order a pattern and fabric and floss in one order from an online vendor (I do have local LNS available, but my mobility makes online shopping the best option) so that when it arrives I know it all belongs together and I don't have to sort out floss project by project. I pay a little more in shipping, but with this vendor having low shipping costs, it works for me. Keep up the good work and I am SO HAPPY to have found you. :) Anne

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Anne, so glad you found us and I’m very happy you enjoyed the video. I enjoyed reading your comments so much, thank you for leaving it. I seem to have a lot of 310 DMC but that is OK, you can probably never have too much 310. 😂😂 Thanks again for your nice note. 🙂

[@AnneSTLMO]

You're welcome @@karencombsstudio And, yes, I have lots of 310, too!!

[@kathydecker889]

I’m not sure how I choose a project - just whichever one is yelling the loudest, I think. 😊 I’m working on His Eye Is On The Sparrow now, and my goal was one motif a day and then work on other things, but I’m having a hard time putting it down. I’m really enjoying the linen it’s on. I think linen choice has a lot to do with how much I love working on a project and on which ones I’m likely to pick up and work on.

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Kathy, So glad you enjoyed the episode and thank you so much for your comment. I love your comment “ whichever one is yelling”. That is wonderful! Love it!! Thanks again 🙂

[@misticrow4534]

The onward sampler...should the word be downward? It just caught my eye. What do you do, besides framing, with your gorgeous projects?

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Misti, thanks so much for your ire. The chart says “onward”. I couldn’t show you the sampler, because all I have is the chart, no photo. Will be able to show more once I’ve gone to the workshop. So far all my finished needle work has been framed, thinking of doing some smalls, so I can turn them into a little pillows. I love how they look. Thanks so much for your note 🙂

[@debrabrooks1790]

Nice to find your channel! I'm fairly new to stitching. Learned a lot just from watching this one video. I'll go back and watch your other videos. Where do I find a stitching stand? Do you use it on a table or your lap? Thank you!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Debra, so glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for your nice note. 🙂 The stand I often use is a Petoky mini stand. I do set it on a table to stitch. It is available at Hobby House, Needleworks, (when it is not sold out.). hobbyhouseneedleworks.com/products/velke-potoky-desktop-stand-mini-dark-wood-dw?pr_prod_strat=e5_desc&pr_rec_id=cd4cffcd0&pr_rec_pid=6710109667431&pr_ref_pid=6709899559015&pr_seq=uniform If it is sold out, you can be put on a waiting list and notified when it’s back in stock. I show a little more information about the stand in one of my previous videos, maybe 3 or 4 back??? Not sure which one. Thanks again for your note

[@vickybossom9957]

Hi Karen, your videos are always so informative. Thank you for them. This is probably a very novice question, but how do you get the Vickie Clayton thread packs -and how do you order them? I'm also interested in flower threads. Where do I get them? Thank you again for your helpful videos.

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Vicky, I'm so glad you enjoyed the video and thanks so much for your note. You can order the VC silks from her website: www.hand-dyedfibers.com/product-category/silk-floss-packets/ You can order separate colors or you can search by designer and see if there is a silk pack for a certain design. Right now, there are over 450 silk packs for different charts available. 🙂 I've ordered the Flower Thread directly from Ginny Thompson: www.flowerthread.com/ But, I believe Colorado Cross Stitch will also be carrying them. Looks like they are not quite available yet www.coloradocrossstitcher.com/collections/flower-thread Thanks again for your note!

[@sarawilson9155]

Isn’t it hard to say what makes us start a new stitch! It’s often spur of the moment, but I’m hooked on 17th century with lots of different stitches at the moment.

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Sarah, thanks so much for your nice comment. I am right with you on the 17th century samplers. I have two of them started and I’ve enjoyed working on them. Thanks again for your note. 🙂

[@desireepheister2633]

Thanks for another great time together! I learn something every time. I noticed you changed the color of the sun in one of your stitches. Do you do that often? It's that based on your fabric? Your whim? Preferences? I am stitching a designer right now who prefers warm colors and I prefer cool colors, so am trying to be brave and change colors! Anyway, I was just curious. Thank you!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Desiree, so glad you enjoyed the video and I appreciate you note so much! 🙂 Sometimes I change the colors so the floss does not "ghost" on the linen. I did that on Ann Tong and will try to remember to show it in my next FlossTube. On my Live on Little, I had to change a few colors because the called for was too light for my linen choice. On The Shores of HRH, I did reverse the sun colors. I really liked the richness of the darker gold and decided to go ahead and make it the "sun" color, rather than just the "ray" color. The "lips" of the sun face did disappear, so I do need to go back and change them to a darker color. I guess for the most part, I usually used the called for, changing when the called for threads ghost. Sometimes change them on a whim, but not often. . . and I just thought of something. When it is on a whim, it is usually a piece that is a scene. On reproduction samplers, I tend to stay with the sampler colors. . . .most of the time. Whew, long answer. Hope that is a little clear. Thanks again for your note. I may ponder this question a bit and address it on my next FlossTube. 🙂

[@georgiaobrien8393]

Another great flosstube, Karen! So, how do I decide what to stitch…usually, it’s because I am drawn to it but, I’m finding back to back BAPs are too much. I’m a monogamous stitcher, for the most part so, BAPs can be tough when you want finishes to come quickly. But, you have me really considering Ann Tong Uffindell!! Perhaps this is where I start her and do a small as well. Yours is beautiful and love that Sleeping Bear linen!

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Georgia, I agree about having the smalls in between the larger projects, gives us a little boost to keep us going when we have a quicker finish. I think you will really love the sleeping bear linen, it’s becoming one of my favorites quickly! Thanks so much for your sweet note ! 🙂

[@sandyp2485]

My tips for beginning stitchers are never leave you needle "parked" somewhere in your cloth and never leave your stitching in the hoop. Okay, if you just had to pause to pick up the phone to chat with someone, you're quite likely safe. But anything more than a few hours and either of these items will leave marks. Needles will make holes that are hard to remove; hoops will leave ridges in your fabric and work which can be hard if not impossible to remove. Hoops left in too long will also warp your stitches from which they may not recover. (Karen, don't know if you've covered this topic in another video. New subscriber so I've not seen all you've created.) Q-Snap users should release the tension on their cloth. Some people just twist the snaps so the fabric is loose. (Not user, not a fan.) People using scroll frames will release the tension on their work at the end of every day/session. Needle nannies come in all kinds of designs and prices. They are well worth it. Vicki Clayton silks....mmmm. Can't say enough nice things about her products. It is incredibly lovely to work with. I choose to stitch what I stitch usually because I've fallen in love with the colors. Sometimes I'll come across a design where I totally loathe the color choices and have no compunction in changing out the colors palette to suit what I like. Karen, could you address the benefits and methods of one stitch at a time? I've never gotten suitable stitch formation with this method. It's fine when it's just one like when they're sprinkled around. But to do an entire block such as for a chimney or a house is when my one stitch at a time is quite faulty.

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Sandy, thanks so much for your note, wonderful tips! I will share them in the next video. I agree about the VC silks. I really do love stitching with them. I don't know how much I can add to stitching one at a time. For me, I find my stitches are better if I do one full stitch and then move to the next. For some of my friends (who are amazing stitchers) they do the sewing method with a full cross and others do a row and them come back. I guess it comes back to stitching in whatever way you can work best. It is a good question and one I need to think about. . . thank you for asking it. I may address that in the next video. Thanks again for your note. I enjoyed reading it! 🙂

[@kckoehler1766]

Karen-I’d like to ask you a question if I may. You place your Vicky Clayton silks in the bobbin case - when you pull a bobbin out and cut a length of silk and use 1 strand… how do you deal with the remaining strand until it’s needed again? Thank you so much. K.C.

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi KC, I will share that on the next video. I think it will be easier to show thank to write. Great question! . . . writing it down now so I don't forget to share it next time. 🙂

[@nanahaney1625]

I Stitch personal to me. The project will be genealogy related- (Mayflower) or (Military), or part of my decor or to commemorate an event, birth, vacation, anniversary etc. Happy Stitches! Stitch what you love!

[@karencombsstudio]

Thanks, Nana! Happy stitching! 🙂

[@dianesutton9282]

I’m so excited to see you starting Charlotte ❤ and the GH 1857 💙 I’m joining in both those stitch a longs too 😂 love all the details you go into for each video 😊

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Diane, I'm so glad you enjoyed the video and thanks so much for your note. 🙂 Charlotte and GH 1857 are so pretty. I'm excited to be stitching on one and starting the other in a few months. Thanks again for your note!

[@VulcanStitcher1701]

Just found you today, it was lovely listening to you (I'm at work but wish I was stitching!) I really want one of those wooden things, I have been just pulling out the whole floss, fold it in half 3 times and cutting it, but to have a more uniform longer floss might be so nice! I want to start my own floss tube, but I don't know where to start, what program do you use to edit? (If you do edit!) Happy stitching!

[@karencombsstudio]

So glad you enjoyed the video and thanks so much for your note! 🙂 I think you will really enjoy the floss winder. It’s one of my favorite notions. As far as FlossTube, you need to do what is comfortable for you . . . and make it unique to you. There are all kinds of options, some people edit, others so not. It is purely personal choice. There is no one way to do it, as you watch FT, yiu will see all kinds of options. Best advice I can give, be yourself. You can always tape a FT just for yourself, then study it to see what you wish to change. It does take time to figure out what is best for you, so it’s okay to be patience with yourself as you figure it out. Hope that helps and thanks again. for your note. 🙂

[@VulcanStitcher1701]

@@karencombsstudio thank you!

[@SplintersandThreadsQuilts]

Your videos are always interesting. In response to the why I choose a stitching project, my answer is most of the reasons you mentioned except doing a SAL. I enjoy getting together with friends to stitch on individual projects. Life keeps that from happening in recent years. I like designing my own projects and/or going at my own pace rather than progressing with a group in large part because I prefer to focus on one major project at a time. I may work up a few smalls as inspiration strikes though.I am curious about the desire to have multiple large WIPs going at any one time. Doesn't that prolong the accomplishment and dilute the good feelings/memories obtained from the process and product we all enjoy?

[@karencombsstudio]

So glad you enjoyed the video and thank you so much for your comment. It is interesting to ponder why some people prefer monogamous stitching, and others prefer multiple projects at once. I guess it depends on how we’re wired. 🤷‍♀️ No right or wrong answer, but is an interesting thought to ponder.

[@vanessavantrease7719]

I purchased the stickers to label the bobbins but mine wouldn't stick so I use a fine tipped permanent marker to write the number on the bobbin. I've never used silk threads before, do you believe it is it worth the extra expense for silks and if so, what is your favorite brand/type? Thank you. Vanessa

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Vanessa, great tip, thank you for sharing it. I like that idea. 🙂 I have used silk for a few of my samplers and do enjoy using it. Most of the time I use DMC or hand-dyed, but occasionally will kit with silk. I love the sheen of silk and also how it feels as I use it. It also has a wonderful durability, many of the older samplers were done in silk. I do enjoy using the Vicky Clayton silks, they are a better price point, and are beautiful. I’ve used several different brands and do enjoy all of them. But it is a personal choice and most of the time I am kitting with cotton, silk is an occasional treat for me. Thanks again for your note 🙂

[@pattyshadle8749]

when stitching on 20 adia how many threads over how many threads

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Patty, I haven’t done much 20 count Aida, but I’m thinking you would use 2 strands. I think three stands would be too thick. In Aida you will stitch “hole” to “hole”. Thanks so much for your note! 🙂

[@jacquelinebilling8643]

Great flosstube, thank you Karen! What is in the little cabinet behind you right shoulder (to the left of the door as we look at your recording). I’ve been trying to figure it out since I started watching you…. 😵‍💫🤣🥰 x

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Jacqueline, So glad you enjoyed the episode and thank you so much for your comment 🙂 Could you be looking at the thread cabinet? The small cabinet that had the basket on it is my DMC cabinet. That might be another good topic for a floss tube, I can take you on a little tour of my sewing . . . 🤔. . . Will have to ponder that. Thanks again for your comment ! 🙂

[@jacquelinebilling8643]

@@karencombsstudio I would love a tour of your sewing room. The cabinet looks as if it holds metallic rings or similar. It has two pictures/cards on top - one is pink and one cream - I’m really just being curious and thank you so much for taking the time to post a reply already… 🥰

[@karencombsstudio]

@@jacquelinebilling8643 You’ve got me thinking about doing that tour. 😂👍 I think I know the cabinet you’re talking about, it is a wooden holder for my sewing machine feet. I wasn’t sure which one you meant, thank you for letting me know. 🙂

[@jacquelinebilling8643]

@@karencombsstudio thanks Karen! Looks a pretty way to store them! 🥰🥰🥰

[@maggiewatte7911]

Can you do speciality stitches on evenweave?

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Maggie, I believe you should be able to do a specialty stitches on Evenweave, just as you do on linen. I’ve done a few specially stitches on evenweave and didn’t have any trouble. I would suggest taking some scrap, evenweave and trying the stitches on it before you start an entire sampler, just to make sure it works. If I have any doubts, I often do a little “test run” just to make sure I like what I’ve selected. Thanks so much for your note 🙂

[@maggiewatte7911]

@@karencombsstudiothank you very much

[@patchy_pony_stitcher]

🐴🐴🐴

[@jodisstitchingadventure8252]

Would 100% LOVE for you to join the #gh1857sampler! I hope you will! I can't wait to see your progress on Ann U.!

[@karencombsstudio]

Isn’t the GH 1957 sampler lovely?!? Looking forward to starting it. 🙂 Enjoying the Ann U right now, such a beautiful sampler. 🙂🙂

[@heathershearer7889]

It's very easy to go back to watch,so I don't find a need to have you go slow❤❤❤❤

[@karencombsstudio]

Thanks, Heather. 🙂

[@shpete1562]

Have had Ann Tong forever. Time to start? Ummmm

[@karencombsstudio]

I’m enjoying working on it. . . . and it’s so pretty! 🙂

[@suzyqrunswithneedles]

Fabulous video! Fingers crossed that you join us for #gh1857samplersal. Cannot wait to see the Vikki Clayton silks! I just love how we come together to stitch the same pattern, but all of our pieces look different based on our choices. Happy stitching! 🧵🪡

[@karencombsstudio]

Hi Suzy, thank you so much for your nice note and I’m so glad you enjoyed the video. I am looking forward to the GH SAL! I had just purchased the chart and the silks a few weeks before I saw your announcement. I guess it was meant to be! Now, I need to decide on the linen. . . Thanks again for your note ! 🙂