This is the Valentine I made for my husband this year.

I wanted to try a collage effect. I incorporated parchment card stock, colored pencil, fabric, ribbon, paper cutouts, homemade paper and counted cross-stitch.

As one of Twisted Threads mini designs, the model was stitched on 32 ct linen over one with two shades of brown-toned overdyed sampler threads. They also have conversions for DMC and Anchor.

I changed that. First of all, I didn't care for their color schemes. I wanted something more traditional.

In addition, I hurt my hand and needed a few stitches in the index finger of my dominant hand right before I started stitching this piece. I didn't think my coordination was up to stitching over one.

So I stitched this pattern on an 18ct parchment-colored aida with two strands of Gentle Art Sampler Thread (from their Simply Shaker line). I chose Rhubarb for the heart and Grape Leaf for the words.

I think doing the finishing work on this piece took longer than the stitching! Even with a heavily bandaged finger, the stitching went quickly. I'm fairly satisfied with the result.

I know my husband will be pleased.

Stitched February 11 - February 12, 2005

Pattern name:	I Simply Love You
Designer:	Twisted Threads
Stitch Count:	65 x 36
Fabric:	18 ct parchment aida
Floss:	Gentle Arts Sampler Thread
Original Cost:	$3.00
Copyright year:	2004

Mine's for Sale!
Used. Excellent condition.
$1.50 for pattern + $0.50 shipping = $2.00
E-mail me for details.
International orders, add $.50 extra for shipping.

A portion of all sales goes to Oprah's Angel Network

Twisted Threads
Toll Free: (800) 434-7374
Fax: (314) 739-2776

The Gentle Art
4081 Bremo Recess
New Albany, OH  43054

Back to Cameo's Corner: 2005
On to next project: Blue on Blue Bookmark by Dunmani Designs