Penland School of Crafts has been in existence for over 75 years. In 1965 glass was introduced. This book, The Penland Book of Glass – Master Classes in Flamework Technique
s, profiles 10 exceptional artists whose specialty is lampwork also known as torchwork. With each artist profile they have provided a “hands on” section that takes you through a tutorial. Amazing. These are artists that are the best at what they do sharing their knowledge and expertise at the torch. I know I’m gushing about this book but it is warranted. As well as the profiles there are gallery sections that offer up an abundance of inspiration for anyone that works at a torch or have thought about trying it. I can’t recommend this book more. It’s truly a joy to look through.
Have you read?
Designer Spotlight: Knotty Bytes
There’s not much to say about Etsy seller Knotty yites other than if you like pop culture cross stitch patterns this is the place for you. It’s pretty much all they do, and there’s a wide range of fandoms and characters represented.
I first learned about this shop when I was doing Only Murders in the Building cross stitch patterns, and if you like that one the rest of their patterns are similar in vibe. They feature little characters in a lineup, sometimes labeled with the name of the show/movie they are from or with other text.
There’s everything from She-Ra to Ghostbusters, Lost to Xena, Game of Thrones to the MCU. While lots of the designs only cover a few characters, there are some larger ones as well.
Like this “space superhero” alphabet full of characters (and one spaceship!) from the Star Wars universe. The full design is 196 by 272 stitches and uses 81-86 colors (the range being because there are actually two alphabets with some different characters to choose from, or mix and match your favorites).
If you’ve ever wanted to stitch up Katniss and the mockingjay pin, an homage to Cersei Lannister or Jem and the Holograms, this shop has got you covered. Or you can try the X-Men, Guardians of the Galaxy or characters from the video game Mass Effect.
Like I said, there’s a wide variety.
If this sounds like the kind of shop you would like, check out all the options at Knotty Bytes. I’d love to hear if you make something from this shop (or if you have already!).
Know a designer who should be in the spotlight? Or are you a designer who wants to share your store? Leave a comment or fill out the form you get when you click on “suggest a craft” at the top of the page.
[Photo: Knotty Bytes]