Christmas Exchange Ornament

This year, I decided I wanted to try and participate more in exchanges and in turn, to learn different finshing techniques. I joined a Christmas Ornament Exchange in my one group, Every Stitch Counts (ESC) and this is the fruits of my labors. The design is from the October 2006 preview issue of the Just Cross Stitch magazine by Val's Stuff.

I finished the stitching this evening (I had to finish up the coal eyes and smile of the snowman) and then Beth H. so graciously helped me by working on finishing an ornament she had to finish and showed me the steps. Surprisingly, it was really, really easy to make and we both were laughing about different things while we talked about college, stitching, friends, pets, houses, and other things.

Another first for me was stitching with silk, which I have fell in love with! The multicolored thread is The Thread Gatherer Silk 'n Colors called Belvedere Gardens and I then decided to use the multicolored trim to compliment it. I think the overall finished project turned out really cute and I hope my partner enjoys it as well.

Reading: I completed 'Shades of Earl Grey' and have started another book by Laura Childs called 'Gunpowder Green' which is still continuing the series starring Theodosia Browning. This is my 3rd book in my challenge list and is the 6th book either finished or started since the challenge began in September.