Nestled in the edges of Austin in Lost Pines, Texas and among the blooming blue bonnets, the 3rd annual Blue Bonnet Studio Times Needle Arts Retreat was held last weekend.

I had heard rave reviews of it last year when Brenda Hart was part of the teaching staff. So of course I had to add it to my must do list! A quick weekend getaway with 2 days of classes and ooh so much fun. An official name tag and a gift of a Blue Bonnet magnet awaited us as we registered.

It did not disappoint! 100 ladies from all over the US attended in about a dozen classes. All the big name teachers along with a Japanese embroidery master led us through either 2 or 4 days of blissful learning.

The weekend started off with a trip to The Needle Works in Austin, Texas for a little stash enhancement. Colleen sure has a beautiful store and there was plenty of candy to tempt a stitcher! I showed a little restraint as I just bought a few threads and a couple new project bags. I like to collect the bags with the different shops name on them! My collection sure is growing.

The hotel was absolutely charming! This is the coffee shop, where you can get a Starbucks, a sandwhich, some sweets or an ice cream cone. The food in the hotel was superb, the beverages just grand, the service and the friendliness of the staff was above and beyond the call of duty, the rooms…oh well I think you get the idea.

The class was the best! two days of studio time with Meredith, my sistah in black cats. In this shot you can see her working on a Charlie Harper “Biodiversity in the Burbs.” She was demonstrating Turkey Work with a punch needle on the squirrel’s tail. I always learn so much from her. Meredith just oozes with her Southern charm and at the same time such a character and makes you laugh allot!

There were a few ladies that attended the Fab Four classes in San Antonio, Columbus and Philadelphia and will be headed to Southern California for the class again in August. It was great seeing everybody again and as always making new friends.

I started off with this canvas and begun with beading the letters. I am modeling the new Bead Buddies and Scissors Bling by Elizabeth Turner Collection.

A magnet on each side holds the bead buddie to your canvas. There is a slight stick to the paper that is within the box that holds the beads in place. I love it! Right now my bead buddie box is on its way to the studios of Needlepoint Now for its photo shoot. Hope I can survive without it.

Now you say, only 100 in attendance? well this retreat is in it’s infancy and is just starting to blossom! I will most definitely go back…and I have lots more to share with you about it. I want to take you all with me too.

Okay Sylvester, why are sleeping on a paper bag? There are blankets and quilts and all kinds of warm stuff, but a paper bag? Go figure! and until next time…keep on stitching