It's elementary, my dear Watson

I love alphabets - well, yes, I love AlphaBits the cereal, too - but I'm talking about the ABC kind of alphabet. Check out this too cute alphabet sampler from Alicia at Posie Gets Cozy . In addition to enjoying her lovely blog, you'll find information to order a kit and make this for yourself.

And a closeup:

[images Posie Gets Cozy]


 Now, if you also just LOVE this but are thinking, What! Are you out of your mind? That's hand embroidery - I don't know how to do that! - just get over yourself! Seriously, it uses only a few very basic stitches and clear instructions are included. The design is printed on the ground fabric - you just fill in with the stitches. Kinda like coloring inside the lines. Certainly easier than counted cross-stitch which you might have tried and abandoned after nearly landing in the loony bin. (Before anyone gets offended at my politically incorrect terminology, I'm bipolar - I'm entitled to say loony bin.)

Admittedly, this will not be a quick project, but did you know that doing handwork such as knitting, crocheting, hand embroidery, quilting, painting, sewing - you get the drift - is good for you? Seriously. Scientific studies have shown that an hour of such activity gives the same health benefits as an hour of yoga! It reduces stress, and even blood pressure. Plus, at the end you have a marvelous new addition to your home decor.

Way back in the day, and my day is really way back, I did all sorts of hand needlework and enjoyed it very much. At some point I migrated to painting, altered art, and mixed media collage as my creative outlets, with the occasional handmade purse or quilt thrown in. But this sampler is so fresh and fun, I may just have to go searching for my embroidery hoop. I know it's here somewhere...

PS: Thanks to Patty at The Snug Bug for her post of this sampler. If you're a lady with curves and like to sew your own clothes, or just love fashion for real figures, check out her wonderful blog.

Don't you just love modern technology?