Here is the "front" which I originally hoped would be the back...the "Spooky Jack" button is so charming! This is using DMC threads, and an unknown (probably charles craft 14ct) cream aida. I started this before I knew where to buy linen! The bead is actually from the same Japanese maker who does the Mill Hill beads, but in a larger size sold in as a Jewelry-making supply.
And the back--you can see why it became to busy for the button, eh? so on this side I simply used a a purple bead with a brassy orange shine.
My dear boyfriend is afraid of these spiders!! :D
I am in love with this bat!! >_<
I worked for a long while testing out stars, and in the end couldn't decide...
...So I used both styles!
It also looks good on a dusty plum ground!!
And this side, too!
And even keeping me company beside my PowerBook! As you can see, I am like a doting parent who takes WAY too many pictures! I had been thinking of this finish for a long time, but what finally motivated me to commit to it is a desire to join the HalloSal, which seems to be a French forum dedicated to the Halloween Stitch-a-long which was organized by GenCat after last Halloween (Get it--HalloSAL?) There are many SAL groups for things regarding Christmas (That most-stitchy of holidays), but nothing much for Haloween which is gaining popularity in the stitchy world, from what I understand. I first read about this group WAAAY back on Lili's Blog (just google for xstitch blog and she's one of the first hits as "Another Cross Stitch Addict"--along with Becky SC!) So, I am eagerly hoping to be a member at least until the end of the year-long group! I will have to shake Speed up to get something ready for the first of June, when the next ornament is due to be shown. As for the Tiny Treasures Exchange, I was a good girl and stitched up my project a few weeks ago--however I have had to wait on the finances for mailing and finishing! So, in case you have come here from that blog, fear not, I have not forgotten my commitment to you even though my blog falls silent on the subject!
Here is something else altogether, a current WIP: freebie from the Brooke's Books Interactive Yahoo group: "Winter Panty".
And one more for good measure!
P.S. Please visit Yuko's Be Happy Blog for a chance to win the lovely Lily of the Valley pin keep she has made to celebrate her 3rd Anniversary with Cross Stitch! The contest will be decided a week from Sunday, Japanese time.
P.P.S. Yuko has added yet another Lily of the Valley pinkeep in a drawing, so don't forget to enter both contests!
