Year in Review | 2018

This blog post originally appeared as the content for my January 2018 newsletter.

FEBRUARY

• The Modern Punch Etsy shop launched with a handful of wall hangings. The shop’s inventory has grown to include pillows, pendants, and punch needle supplies. In 2019, I plan to focus more on my online shop on my website. In addition to original work, I will carry supplies such as foundation cloth and frames.

MARCH

• First sale!

JULY

• Released gripper strips frames with a working area of approximately 12x12”. Frame production was suspended during the cold season (my “woodshop” is my screened-in porch and it’s too dang cold in Central New York).

SEPTEMBER

• Taught my first punch needle workshop at the Danby Gathery. Planning more workshops for 2019, including a full class at the Tompkins County Public Library. Newsletter subscribers will be the first to know about future workshops.

OCTOBER

• Attended a day-long rughooking class with the lovely Beth Miller of Parris House Woolworks at 1802 Beekman Mercantile. The Beekman Boys, who I had the privilege of meeting, know hospitality. We were treated to pastries and coffee in the morning and the most delicious sandwiches and sweet tea (above the Mason-Dixon) in the afternoon.

DECEMBER

• First holiday market at the Danby Gathery
• Macrame gift class at the Tompkins County Public Library

In the Shop
Earlier in December, serged cuts of monk’s cloth (loose weave) were listed in my Etsy shop. Serged cuts and yardage of primitive linen will be available in January. Cuts can be used on a gripper strip frame, stretched and stapled on a frame, or in a hoop. Subscribers can use the code PRIM20 for 20% off your order of primitive linen during January.

Listening
The 99% Invisible podcast put out a series called Articles of Interest. Each episode investigates an aspect of fashion, its history, and effect on society. Subjects include children’s clothing, pockets, and blue jeans, among others. Highly recommend.

One of my IG friends and fellow punch needle artist has started a podcast called Maker’s Chat. Andie, of Myra and Jean, is one of the most talented and kindest people around. I admire her curiousity and how, when she decides to do something, she just does it. I can’t wait to see where she takes her podcast.

Another must-listen is the episode of Collage Creative with Rose Pearlman. Many lovers of the craft, discovered punch needle through Rose. Host Amy Small (the woman behind the dreamy Knit Collage fibers) talks to Rose about her upbringing in an art camp (what a dream!) and how she found her way to rughooking.


Random Content
​This past holiday season, my go-to dish for gatherings was pimento (or pimiento) cheese spread. It is super easy to make. All measurements are approximate. You can add or substract anything to taste.

PIMENTO CHEESE SPREAD

1 cup shredded mild white cheddar
1 cup shredded sharp yellow cheddar
1 cup mayo (preferably Duke’s but any will do)
1 small jar diced pimientos, drained
Salt, pepper, other seasonings to taste (I like a bit of Trader Joe’s chili and lime seasoning)

Serve with white toast points or ritz crackers. Also good in grilled cheese sandwich, on a burger, or straight from a spoon.