Saturday, December 21, 2019

Santa's Finish

The needlepoint Santa arrived recently arrived home from the needlepoint finisher. This is the perfect week to introduce him in his completed form.  Some may remember that he was started this past summer.  A few stitches in place.
More progress was made mid-summer as Santa traveled on a mini-vacation.
Here he is finished and merrily resting on the mantle. Hopefully, later (after Christmas) I'll be able to take a photo with brighter lighting to better show stitching detail and my favorite sections.

Last week, Kathy of Kathy's Slow Sunday Stitching, asked her followers if they had a favorite hand stitched project that they enjoyed each year.  Although I have several favorites, this will be a newer favorite!

While joining others this Slow Sunday Stitching, I have a relaxing, no-thinking, hand project to work on during breaks from last-minute Christmas preparations.  I'll be crocheting an edge around a fleece blanket for a charity project.  

May you all have a blessed Christmas!

Jill







19 comments:

Created by Kathi said...

oh Jill... what a marvelous finish you have been holding out on us with!!! I see why it is your new favorite Christmas decoration!!! WOW... I love the background basketweave and I love Santa and the tree... looking forward to after Christmas now to see Santa in daylight... but he looks so enchanting in the lighting you are sharing here too. Have a blessed Christmas my friend! Kathi

Kim said...

Your Santa is beautiful, Jill! The colours dance merrily and the basketweave background is perfect. Love the sweet tassel on his hat, too. It would look fabulous on the mantel. Wishing you and your loved ones a beautiful Christmas.

Jill said...

Thanks, Kathi, for your kind words! Santa was hanging out with the finisher and needlepoint shop all fall. I was delighted to bring him home. Other photos will follow eventually. I can't decide if I am slower at blogging or stitching. Lol! Merry Christmas!

Kathy S. said...

Oh my! That is just gorgeous!!! I love the red background. I've never tried anything like that. Have a beautiful holiday season.

Deb A said...

He is just darling! Love the red background, he looks like a beautiful painting.

Karen - Quilts...etc. said...

I love that Santa!

Sarah said...

He is gorgeous. A fantastic finish!

Marie said...

Isn't he adorable! He will be a lovely addition to your holiday decor. I recently finished a cross stitched Santa that I had started over 30 years ago and I just love him too. So glad I stuck with it.

Jill said...

Santa was fun to stitch. His tassel was a new-to-me stitch and a deviation from the original sample Santa. The tassel added dimension on what would have been a flat piece. The intent was to place Santa on an end table, however, our foster feline (for 2-1/2 years) enjoyed pushing him on the floor. The mantle is safer - go figure! Your Christmas visit is appreciated during this busy time!

Jill said...

When I first saw a similar Santa in my local needlepoint shop, I also thought he was gorgeous. Therefore, I had to buy the needlepoint canvas and start stitching so a similar one could live at my house. Who'd of thunk a blue Santa on a burgandy-reddish background would be so fun. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

Jill said...

Wish I could take credit for designing the red background, however, that part was previously done by the needlepoint shop. I knew I could not improve on it. Thank you for stopping by during the last few days before the holiday!

Jill said...

I'm delighted that you love him! Thanks for taking the time to comment, Karen. Merry Christmas!

Jill said...

Admittedly, this is one project that I focused on from start to finish! That includes having him professionally trimmed with narrow braiding and mounted on a stand. This Santa would have been an UFO had I tried to finish him myself. Merry Christmas Sarah!

Jill said...

Although this Santa is wearing blue, he's a friendly one that will be welcomed every December. Cross stitched Santas are another favorite of mine! I'm so glad you finished your Santa. Your framer/finisher did a wonderful job. He is awesome! I appreciate your pre-Christmas visit!

stitchingirlblog.wordpress.com said...

I truly love your Santa! I am looking forward to seeing all the stitches you chose for each section.

Karrin Hurd said...

Love your Santa, he is beautiful! Have a Merry Christmas!

Alcea Rosea 31 said...

He is a charming Father Christmas. It is lovely to bring out familiar hand sewn decorations each year.

Jill said...

Thank you for admiring the Santa. I shall post photos of close-up stitches. Merry Christmas!

Jill said...

Thanks Karrin! The newest addition to my handmade Christmas items is taking top billing this year. May you and your family enjoy the Christmas holiday.