Red Work

I started the Plum Pudding Christmas Sampler in Red. Although it called for Aida (tea-dyed if you wanted, with instructions), I am using 38 ct Italian linen in cream and instead of the recommended Gentle Art cranberry, I am using Needlepoint Silks in one of the burgundy shades (I threw away the wrapper, so I'm not sure which one). Because I had the linen in my stash and the sampler only required one skein, it's a very thrifty project. Since one thing leads to another--isn't that always the way?--I found myself wandering the Christmas aisles in TJ Maxx (I went for inexpensive towels to take to the gym--yet another way that one thing leads to another. My office building has a free gym, and I never use it, but starting this week, I think I will, especially since I did my maiden-voyage walk in the new shoes this morning). Anyway, I love TJ Maxx for unexpected bargains and finds in their housewares/linens department. I found red transferware plates and bowls for about $7 apiece. Very Christmasy, especially considering my sampler work today. I didn't get them but think I will go back and pick them up later in the week. They had lots of fun Halloween and Thanksgiving stuff too. And I looked for a long time at ornaments and garlands and interesting artificial wreaths with fake fruit as big as a cat's head on them. Think I'll get one of those too. I can't tell you how out-of-character this behavior is. And all because of a Christmas Sampler!

And here's some more red work that I accomplished this afternoon.