At long last my Denise rug is completed!  There are over 66,000 stitches in this little rug.  I decided to try a new style (new to me) of edging instead of using my usual overcast stitch.  I tried using a "braid" style stitch which is best described in this YouTube video.  I really enjoyed trying out this stitch and once I got the hang of it, it went very smoothly.  I like the square instead of rounded profile I got with this stitch and am very pleased with the results.  Unfortunately, I couldn't get a good picture of the edge due to the black floss.  Sometime when I finish another project with a lighter color I will try to get a good photo of it.

This is the first of my stitched rugs that I will be offering for sale in my Etsy shop and can be found HERE if interested.  Over time I may offer other stitched items as I make them but for now, this one has the honor of being my first!

I am happy to say I have now finished the main stitching on my rug!  Here it is still in its frame, awaiting the next stage of completion.  Now I will be blocking it for the next few weeks before finishing the sides of the rug.  I have decided not to put a fringe on this rug so will need to overcast all 4 sides.
Once this rug is fully completed, I will be offering it for sale on my Esty site.

Now that this one is finished, I will be taking a break from stitching rugs and will be working on a project of my own that I have been working on (off and on) for the last 3 years.  I am trying not to get distracted by thoughts of another rug.  However, since I always have to have at least 3 projects on the go at the same time, I will also be working on creating stitched upholstery for a miniature chair and some miniature cushions, all my own designs.

I am also in the process of determining the best designs for my CNC machine that will allow the mounting of stitching projects so will be cutting more room screens and fire screens.  Once the design is perfected, they will also be offered for sale on my Etsy store.  

​Stay tuned for more updates...

Since my last post, I have been dividing my time between creating fun things on my new CNC machine and working on my rug.  I finally feel as if I am on the homeward stretch now.  I am currently working the light blue background around the top half.  Once that is done, I will only have the center to finish.  It always feels good when I pass the halfway point on a particular project because I then know that I may soon start the next one.

I have also been having a lot of fun with my new machine and have been cutting out my new creations to see how they look.  So far, I haven't had to tweak much in my designs and it is so satisfying being able to create something out of my imagination and see it come to life. 
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I have decided to expand my blog from only stitching projects to include other projects I have created for my shop.  I think it gives a more well-rounded view of my activities and those of my daughters.  My youngest daughter has agreed to join me in my miniature venture and is currently working on writing a miniature book for me.  Heather absolutely loves to write and is currently working on a full-length book she wishes to publish eventually.  I am looking forward to seeing what she comes up with for me. 🙂