Fresh New Website

Greetings friends! It's been a while since my last visit, but with great reason - I have been busy behind the scenes designing a brand new website. Yep, I am a one woman show - and when my shopping cart provider raised their pricing 300% without warning and the customer service was the absolute worst, I decided it was time to start fresh. My web host made some suggestions and I began the tedious process of building a completely new website.  You can still find me at https://blueribbondesigns.com (my home for the last twenty years), but some of the page addresses have changed...so, if you have specific pages bookmarked, you will want to visit the new site and update your bookmarks. The new website loads faster and is easier to navigate...it has a much cleaner look on mobile devices and tablets...and has an overall fresh new look! This was a HUGE undertaking and time sucker, but I believe it was worth it. I hope you will stop by for a visit...

BLUE RIBBON DESIGNS WEBSITE

FlossTube Episode Ten - New Cross Stitch

Greetings friends...my latest FlossTube video has been posted - I hope you'll come visit with me! I share all the details for my two new cross stitch designs....plus I show some of my classic Valentine's Day needlework smalls and a sneak peek of some new Etsy items...I also share about the quilt classes I will be teaching. I look forward to seeing you.... Thank you to those who have subscribed to my channel and to those who have liked and commented on my videos - I appreciate your kind support! 

You can find my YouTube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/c/BelindaKarlsNace and I will post the latest video (https://youtu.be/pabbN8qDYzo) below:

I will be back soon to share my most recent projects (I've been busy in the studio). It has been difficult to find a balance with my new designs, Etsy projects, custom and finishing work, teaching, and my freelance designing...plus I am now in the process of building a brand new website...I am so busy, but it is truly a blessing! Thanks for making the time to stop by my blog today...💗

Two New Cross Stitch Designs

Greetings friends - I'm so happy you stopped by for a visit today! It is a cold and snowy day in Kansas...and I am slowly starting to feel better. I do have quite a few project photos to share with you...and I will do that soon, but today is all about my TWO new cross stitch designs! I released a couple new patterns today and this post showcases each one. These two new cross stitch designs are both available for digital download in my Etsy shop...but if you would really like to have a printed paper pattern, please send me an email (I will reply with the details, then send a PayPal invoice and ship them to you - you will be charged a little extra for printing and exact shipping fees). For now, let's get to the fun part - the new designs....

Flurry Friends (BRD-129)

This cheerful snow day project features a happy snowman and snowwoman...along with cardinals and a wintery farmyard. This chartpack includes a large design (the focus on the cover) that is flat-finished for an easel, but is also suitable for framing...and two BONUS smaller versions that are perfect for bowl fillers, small pillows, ornaments or even small frames. The focal model was stitched on 40-count Tin Roof by Weeks Dye Works (but your favorite darker fabric color and count will do - you want to be able to see the snow) with The Gentle Art Sampler Threads (DMC conversion included). The smaller bonus designs included were stitched on white kitchen towels and the pattern gives you an alternate floss color for the snow. The model uses a cotton quilt fabric for the back and twisted cord with gingham ribbon for an embellishment.  This ten page chartpack comes with charting for the large design and two smaller versions (in color and black/white) along with stitching and finishing instructions for the flat-finish. A perfect stitch for a snowy, wintery afternoon...

Additional details/purchasing information: 
https://www.etsy.com/listing/1146738494/flurry-friends-brd-129-counted-cross

Bluebird Boarding House (BRD-130)

This colorful floral design features a flock of joyful bluebirds, cottages and flowers in a traditional sampler style. The model is finished as a pillow/bowl filler, but is suitable for framing. I can also see it inserted into a project bag, in the base of a tray or on the top of a tin/box. The model was stitched on 40-count Angel Hair by Weeks Dye Works (but your favorite fabric color and count will do) with Weeks Dye Works Cotton Floss (DMC conversion included). The model uses a cotton quilt fabric for the back and Hand-dyed Lace (Wading Pool) and Hand-dyed Half Inch Rick Rack (Chianti) by Lady Dot Creates for embellishment.  This twelve page chartpack comes with charting and a personalization page (in color and black/white) along with stitching and finishing instructions for the pillow/bowl filler. A lovely springtime stitch to brighten a dreary day!

Additional details/purchasing information: 
https://www.etsy.com/listing/1160696529/bluebird-boarding-house-brd-130-counted

For now, I am off to add details from the new designs to my website...and I hope to film a FlossTube video next week when I am feeling better.

Thank you so much for visiting with me today and for the continued enthusiasm for my designs. I wouldn't be able to pursue my passion without your encouragement, love and support!

A Couple Class Announcements

Greeting friends! A quick post this evening, as I have been quite under the weather and I am still not feeling the best...but I wanted to get the details posted for a couple sewing/quilting classes I will be teaching in February and March. If you watched my last FlossTube video, then you heard me talking about teaching for The Quilted Sunflower, my local quilt shop. I now have all the details. Both of these classes will be held across the street from the quilt shop at The Creative Place in Spring Hill, KS. These classes are for beginner to intermediate sewists - you should be familiar with your sewing machine, have basic sewing skills, know how to read a pattern and know basic patchwork and quilting techniques. The class fee will include your pattern - you will need to provide your own fabrics/materials. Each student will bring their own sewing machine and basic sewing supplies/tools. A handout will be provided with the pattern containing specific details when you register for the class. Each class is limited to 15 students.

Pretty Posies Pouch
Date: Saturday, February 12th
Time: 9:00 - 3:30

Place: The Creative Place (118 S Main Street, Spring Hill, KS 66083 - across the street from The Quilted Sunflower)
Class Fee: $37.00 (includes pattern and wrist strap hardware)
Registration is through The Quilted Sunflower:
you can register online, call the shop at
(913) 592-0100, or stop in to get all the details.

Finish size is 9" W x 8" H x 2" D

Pouch front contains traditional quilt piecing.

Must have basic sewing and quilting knowledge.

I will teach you how to create this patchwork zippered pouch from start to finish, including how to insert the zipper, how to box the bottom of the bag and how to attach the wrist strap. If you have your materials cut and ready to sew, my plan is for you to complete the pouch during the class....and I hope you will learn to love zippers! The patchwork on the front of the bag is Mini Charm Pack friendly or you can easily cut the squares needed from scraps, Charm Packs or Jelly Rolls. This zippered pouch is a great size for a small project...or toiletries...or art supplies...or packing a lunch or snacks...and it would make a great gift. If you are in the Kansas City area, I hope you will join me for this event.

Forty-Five Tote Bag
Date: Saturday, March 5th
Time: 9:00 - 3:30

Place: The Creative Place (118 S Main Street, Spring Hill, KS 66083 - across the street from The Quilted Sunflower)
Class Fee: $37.00 (includes pattern)
Registration is through The Quilted Sunflower:
you can register online, call the shop at
(913) 592-0100, or stop in to get all the details.

Finish size is 14" W x 18" H x 4" D

Tote bag contains traditional quilt piecing.

Must have basic sewing and quilting knowledge.

I will teach you how to create the Forty-Five Tote Bag from start to finish, including how to create the handles, how to box the bottom of the bag and how to create/attach the pockets (there are two outer pockets and two inner pockets). If you have your materials cut and ready to sew, my plan is for you to complete the majority (if not all) of the tote bag in class. This over-sized tote bag is perfect for taking your projects on the go...or for a farmer's market...or overnight bag...or for a picnic or potluck. The outer patchwork is Charm Pack friendly and the supply list is minimal. Again, if you are in the Kansas City area, I hope you will join me for this class.

Leslie is now taking registrations at The Quilted Sunflower, so stop in and visit her (and see the fresh new look in the shop)...you can also register online at her website or call the shop for details (913) 592-0100. I have the patterns and class information sheets ready, along with  my samples to drop off at the shop later in the week (as soon as I am feeling up to it). The shop has an array of new fabrics that would work perfectly for these projects! If these classes are popular, we will look at scheduling more in the future. If you have additional questions, please feel free to send me an e-mail...

For now, I'm off to rest and regain my strength. Thank you for stopping by for a visit - I'll be back soon with a creative update!

FlossTube Episode Nine and 2021 Reflection

Happy last Friday of 2021 (almost the new year!) friends... My latest FlossTube video has been posted. This video is a holiday wrap-up, a general update and shows some holiday and personal sewing/quilting/stitching...I talk about my upcoming quilt class and show a couple sneak peeks of upcoming new cross stitch designs. Thank you to those who have subscribed to my channel and to those who have liked and commented on my videos - I appreciate the kind words! 

You can find my YouTube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/c/BelindaKarlsNace and I will post the latest video (https://youtu.be/LVbobG3ddoA) below:

In just a matter of hours, we will be welcoming the new year...and as 2021 comes to a close, I am reflecting on the last 365 days...it sure has been another busy and artistic year...2021 was full of achievements, challenges, advancement, self reflection, and new directions. Thank you for contributing to the success of Blue Ribbon Designs and for your support, encouragement, and loyalty - there are many talented designers/finishers/teachers out there...and a vast amount of needlework, sewing and quilting patterns to choose from - I sincerely thank you for welcoming my designs and allowing my dream to be a reality. I truly love sharing my creativity and I hope you will continue to receive my designs/patterns with open arms and share in my passion for all things done with needle and thread. As we move forward into 2022, I have many goals (too many to list) and a good amount of projects in the works...a pile of creative design ideas and (as always) exciting plans for the future. Thank you for allowing me to pursue my passion...

I would like to thank you for supporting Blue Ribbon Designs and my blogging journey. You continue to inspire me with your creativity, kindness, and generous spirits - BRD would not be possible without you and your patience as I explore new creative avenues and ideas. In preparation for 2022, take a moment to reflect on the past year and the many blessings bestowed upon you...and be sure to take a look at all the beautiful stitching, sewing, quilting, and crafting projects you have accomplished. I wish you a happy, healthy 2022 filled with joy, laughter, and creativity! HAPPY NEW YEAR....

The Holiday Rush and Wrap Up

Greetings friends - happy Wednesday! I am struggling to believe we are in the final few days of 2021 - for me, this year went by in a whirlwind. Things have felt almost out of control since my last post - but I think November and December feel that way for most.

I would like to thank everyone for the happy and positive response to my 2021 cross stitch Christmas ornament design! I really enjoy seeing all the "My Frosty Friend" finishes on social media and appreciate the kind notes and comments sent my way. To those of you who visited my shop or used the Buy Me A Coffee link (I replied to all of you personally) - I can't thank you enough - I am very grateful for your support.💗

On a personal level, we had a lovely Christmas. Since moving to Kansas City, my husband and I have started a few new traditions. For those of you who don't know, my husband is in management for UPS (the reason we moved to Kansas) and he always works on Christmas Eve...so when he gets home that night, we drive down to the Plaza to see the Christmas lights. The first year, it was almost 10:00 PM and the only place we could find open downtown was the Cheesecake Factory - so we stopped in, had a cocktail and appetizer and then walked around the Plaza area. This ritual has stuck around, so for the 3rd year I can't believe this was our 3rd Christmas in Kansas), we visited the Plaza, had a light late-night meal at the Cheesecake Factory (luckily, I had made reservations way in advance, because it was 65 degrees - unbelievable for December in the Midwest - and the Plaza was packed), then drove around and looked at some of the best light displays in the KC area. The photos below are my favorite houses. On Christmas Eve day, I watch our neighbor's dog Gus (a super sweet Golden Retriever)…they were kind enough to leave me a tray of fresh cinnamon rolls ready to rise and bake for Christmas morning - how thoughtful was that?! So, Christmas morning, we slept in - then had hot, fresh cinnamon rolls and French press coffee. That afternoon, we went to the movie theater, another Christmas tradition, to see a movie - this year we saw Spider-Man: No Way Home (which was excellent!). After the movie, we went home for our traditional Christmas dinner of flatbread pizza and wine. We also exchanged gifts and I opened a couple special packages that arrived from dear faraway friends. A wonderful, relaxing holiday.

As always, I made quite a few holiday gifts this year. I did a lot of sewing and quilting this year and I'll post a few photos below. I always enjoy making gifts for those in my life who appreciate them. I also took a few stress reliever evenings and made some small items, just to give myself a break - I made a mug rug and a pin cube that I adore - plus, a fabric bowl to hold my pin boxes and tomato pincushion...

I have been keeping busy with my Etsy shop (creating/sewing more items and slowly adding PDF versions of my classic cross stitch patterns), finishing several client orders, and working on new cross stitch designs (details coming soon). Here are just a few photos of projects I have been working on (as always, the cross stitch pieces shown below are for a client - they are just my finishing work, not my stitching or my designs)…

Over the last month, I spent several days helping my local quilt shop with inventory - I also took a quilt class and attended an open sew day (both firsts since we made the move and it has been enjoyable to meet other quilters/stitchers in the area). On a fun note - I will be teaching a quilt class for The Quilted Sunflower - the class will be for my Pretty Posies Pouch! We are still finalizing the details and a date with The Creative Place where it will be held, but as soon as I have definitive details, I will be sure to share them. The class fee will include the pattern and the hardware for the wrist strap and the class will be held on a Saturday. We have discussed future classes, as well, so I hope this one is well-received. Bottom photo below is of longarm bobbin containers gifted to me by my LQS owner and friend - they work perfectly for storing small items in my studio!

If  don't make it back for another post before 2022, thank you for spending another creative year with me! It is an incredible blessing to have stitching and quilting friends from all over the world that allow me to pursue my passion. Thank you for supporting my small business, encouraging me, and sharing my love of all things needle and thread.