Writing Articles

I can't tell you how exciting it is for me to see an article I have written in a magazine. I've written for many of the sewing magazines over the years, but it doesn't change how wonderful it is to open the page and see "written by Kandi L. Christian." This month I have an article that features one of my embroidery CDs called "Faux Madeira Applique" in Designs in Machine Embroidery magazine. I want to thank them for allowing me to share these photos. I've removed the article though - to read that you'll have to get the magazine. I bet a lot of you already subscribe.

 

These two jackets use the exact same embroidery design, but they couldn't look more different. Also, even though they use Madeira applique, which is an heirloom technique, they are modern because they're modern because of the fabric choices.

 

Let me know what you think. I hope you get a chance to try one or two of these jackets for your own wardrobe. - Kandi

Threading Needles

I was fixing some patio cushions today and as I was threading the needle with very thick thread, I thought I would share how I thread a needle. I know this is something very simple, but there is more than one way. In the book, "Tom Sawyer," Tom identity was discovered when he tried to disguise himself as a girl to attend his own funeral. It wasn't because of the way he looked, it was because he threaded a needle by bringing the needle to the thread instead of the thread to the needle. I digress. For years now, I have threaded a needle by folding about 1/3 of the thread down. Then you push the folded edge through the needle. This works for thick thread, like I was using today, or really, really small eye holes. The fold is stronger than a single thread and it really works. Also, you can hold the folded edge against your finger as you push it through the eye. Try it and let me know what you think.  Kandi

Growing from Seed - Amazing

I am always amazed with the first little leaves pop up from the garden after I've planted seeds. It's a miracle to me that I can plant a seed and grow food. After I plant the seeds, I find myself checking for signs of germination. Then one day, they start. I always grow from seeds, so my garden is usually a little behind. I'm catching up. My grape tomatoes are turning red (there's a lot of them). The regular tomatoes are getting bigger each day. This year, for the first time, I have peppers that are real size, not just miniatures. My carrots are already being harvested. They're a little small, but I couldn't wait.

I'd love to hear about what you're growing.