A Needle Pulling Thread Issue 70 Sampler

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20Anniversary Issue th

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As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of A Needle Pulling Thread, I find myself filled with gratitude, wonder, and deep reflection. It’s hard to believe that two decades have passed since we launched this magazine with the simple intention of honouring all forms of needlework.

What began as a seasonal publication has evolved into a richly themed exploration of creativity and craftsmanship—thanks to you, our loyal readers.

To our readers, whether you've been with us since Issue 1 or just discovered us recently, thank you. You are the heartbeat of ANPTmag. Your enthusiasm, feedback, and continued support have sustained and inspired us every step of the way.

I’m also deeply grateful to the many brilliant designers who’ve contributed their time, artistry, and expertise.

Designers like Annette Janca, Margaret Sweete, Elaine Theriault, Paul Léger, Olesya Lebedenko, Ana Buzzalino, Julie Plotniko, Heather McArthur, Cynthia MacDougall, Nancy Lekx, Ruth I. Forbes, Jo Gatenby, Kim Beamish, Judith Marquis, Iryna Varabei, and Lorraine Thompson have helped shape the voice and vision of the magazine. Their loyalty has been a godsend, and our creative exchanges have brought immeasurable joy over the years.

To our advertisers—especially Husqvarna VIKING and PFAFF, who’ve been with us since the very beginning, and H.A. Kidd and Company Limited—thank you for believing in our mission and supporting the community we serve.

Eletter

ditor's

To my incredible team: Sondra Armas, Maria Corina Guillen, Joaquin Rojas, and my dear husband John De Fusco—you are the quiet force behind every issue.

Your creativity, patience, and unwavering support and work have made so many things possible.

I’m also deeply grateful to my biggest cheerleaders—my children, Alessia and Adriano De Fusco—whose love has meant the world to me throughout this journey.

Over the years, the magazine has grown in exciting ways. From our early days of celebrating the seasons to embracing expansive, theme-based issues, we’ve continuously sought new ways to engage and inspire. Along the way, we introduced digital editions, launched companion blogs and online magazines—QUILTsocial in 2014 and KNITmuch in 2015—and embraced new platforms to reach our audience.

This 20th Anniversary Issue is a celebration of both past and present, with a playful nod to the number 20.

You’ll find projects incorporating 20 stitches, 20 blocks, 20 methods—and a wealth of inspiration from our contributors who share 20 creative tips and lessons learned over their needlework journeys.

How do I express in a single letter the joys and challenges of publishing for 20 years? It’s difficult. But I can say that this journey has taught me much—about business, resilience, people, and my own capacity to adapt and grow. One of the greatest joys has been fostering a creative space where designers and readers can connect, share, and flourish.

And yes, there have been challenges—keeping pace with the social media revolution, the fastchanging digital landscape, and now artificial intelligence. Yet through it all, the heart of this magazine has remained constant: a genuine, thoughtful, creative connection.

Thank you for being part of this extraordinary journey.

With heartfelt appreciation,

20

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Julie Plotniko

quilting Eternal Love A Gem-Inspired Quilt for All Occasions

Annette Janca

quilting quilting Circles Galore Wall Art Quilt

Nancy Devine creative sewing Hands & Heart Quilted Tote

Olesya Lebedenko

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quilting 20 Faces of Whiskers Quilt Block Sampler

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Nancy Lekx

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knitting Madeira Cascade Wrap

Lorraine Thompson

knitting Yikes! A Moth Socks

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Ruth I. Forbes

crochet Dance of the Rainforest Lap Rug

Mark Your Calendars!

Advertiser Index Julie Plotniko

Stitches and Stories with Julie 20th anniversary gifts, symbolism, and a bit of history

Carla A. Canonico

20th Anniversary Special: Contributors

Elaine Theriault

20 things I Wish I Knew Before Quilting Took Over My Life

Ana Buzzalino

In The Studio with Ana Buzzalino Stitching Wisdom: 20 Gentle Reminders for Every Fibre Artist’s Journey

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Elizabeth Okeyele-Olatunji

Artist Review The Niginarian Community Quilt | Keep Telling Your Story, Elizabeth!

Cynthia MacDougall

Knit Together 20 Sound Knitting Tips Cynthia’s Tried-and-True Advice for Every Knitter

Jill Wolcott

Making Fit Accessible No Body is Perfect

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Jo Gatenby

embroidery 20-Part Harmony Sampler

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Iryna Varabei

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Kim Beamish

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6 6 10

Trapezoid

cross stitch Mokash Goddess A Cross Stitched Hanging Talisman embroidery Pulled Thread Embroidery: 20th Anniversary Mat

Judith Marquis

smocking Sampler Fan in Stitches: A Smocked Celebration of 20 Years

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MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

Advertiser Index

Fall | September 26-29, 2025 Spring | April 10-12, 2026 Haus of Stitches Knitting Retreat St. Peter’s Abbey, Muenster, Saskatchewan Imagine being able to knit without interruption?

Share the enthusiasm with other knitters, be inspired, discover new techniques, get fresh ideas and knit, knit, and knit some more! Forms and details at www.hausofstitches.ca or call 1.800.344.6024.

May 29 - June 4, 2026 Saskatchewan Stitches Conference St. Peter’s Abbey, Muenster, Saskatchewan The Saskatchewan Stitches Conference offers creative classes with renowned fibre and needle work artists and attracts participants from across Canada who love to sew, knit, quilt and rughook.

Forms and details at www.saskstitches.ca or call 1.800.344.6024.

15 Bohin 99 Business Directory 73 Canadian Quilters' Association 99 Crochet Designs by NanaRuth 48 Embroiderers' Association of Canada 55 Fabrikisto Stitching Frame Stand 55, 73 Gütermann Creativ 62 Haus of Stitches 27 Husqvarna Viking 06 Kelly's Creative Sewing 100 KNITmuch 99 Lowery Workstands 48 Odif 59 Ontario Hooking Craft Guild 06 Ottawa Sewing Centre 02 PFAFF 100 QUILTsocial 59 Rit 99 Rypan Designs 06 Sew Inspired 49 Singer 98 Spirit of Belarus 06 The Quilt Store 06 The Yarn Guy 97 Titech Pro 97 X's & Oh's 07 SUBSCRIPTIONS

902-435-7380

kellyscreativesewing@gmail.com Specialize in Sewing, Embroidery machines, Sergers and Long arm Quilting Systems

The Quilt Store West 1-888-853-7001 695 Plains Rd E #1,

Burlington, ON L7T 2E8 www.thequiltstore.ca

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905-631-0894 / 1-877-367-7070

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SOCIAL MEDIA Maria Corina Guillen I.T./Web ASSISTANT Joaquin Rojas

Facebook: ANPTmag Ravelry: ANPTmag

A Needle Pulling Thread (ISSN 1715-4650) is published three times per year. Subscribe online, by phone, or by mail.

Mailing Address: A Needle Pulling Thread Subscriber Services 1025 Rouge Valley Dr Pickering, ON L1V 4N8 Pay-as-you-go subscription rates: PRINT: Canada: CAD$16.95/issue USA: USD$16.95/issue.

DIGITAL: Canada: CAD$11.95/issue USA: USD$8.95/issue.

Applicable taxes extra. For back issues please visit our web site or call us for availability. Also available on iTunes and Google Play.

Designers and other contributors who would like to be considered for future issues please email Carla with a brief description of your work and your proposed project for the magazine.

SPECIAL THANKS TO

All the contributors, Omolara Keye, Alessia, Adriano, and to our mom.

Ottawa Sewing Centre Sales & Service of Baby Lock, Brother, and Elna sewing machines, and Q'nique longarm quilting machines

- - - NEWMARKET & BURLINGTON - - -

Website : www.ANPTmag.com Toll Free: 1.866.969.2678 SUBSCRIPTIONS

GRAPHICS ASSISTANT Sondra Armas

EDITORIAL

- - - NEWMARKET & BURLINGTON - - -

The Quilt Store, Evelyn’s Sewing Centre 17817 Leslie St #40, Newmarket, ON L3Y 8C6 905-853-7001 / 1-888-853-7001

QUILTING CONTRIBUTORS Julie Plotniko juliesquiltclass@gmail.com Elaine Theriault elainetheriault@gmail.com Paul Léger paullegerquilts@gmail.com KNITTING CONTRIBUTOR Cynthia MacDougall cynthia@ANPTmag.com

If you are interested in carrying A Needle Pulling Thread in your store, please call 1.866.969.2678 or email john@ANPTmag.com.

Also visit www.CRAFTalytics.com to find out about our new digital marketing services specially designed for craft retailers.

804 Main Street Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B2W 3V1

www.thequiltstore.ca

PUBLISHER, ADVERTISING SALES John De Fusco john@ANPTmag.com PHOTOGRAPHERS Carla A. Canonico, John De Fusco, Alessia Pelletier

RETAILERS

www.kellyscreativesewing.ca

1-888-853-7001

PUBLISHER, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, ART DIRECTOR Carla A. Canonico carla@ANPTmag.com

613-695-1386 www.ottawasewing.com 1390 Clyde Ave, #107, Ottawa, ON K2G 3H9 Your Authorized Dealer for:

A Needle Pulling Thread® is a registered trademark. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. ©2025 A Needle Pulling Thread. All rights reserved. Issue 70.

All designs, patterns, and information in this magazine are for private, non-commercial use only, and are copyrighted material owned by their respective creators or owners.

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QUILT SEW KNIT CROCHET CROSS STITCH EMBROIDER HOOK RUGS

NEW! A Needle Pulling Thread now conveniently reaches your doorstep with our flexible

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For inquiries call 1.855.ANPTmag (1.855.267.8624) or email: subscriptions@ANPTmag.com

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Eternal Love

A Gem-Inspired Quilt for All Occasions

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Circles Galore quilting

Wall Art Quilt

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Some of the many brilliant collaborators and designers I've had the privilege to work with over the years...

Jo Gatenby

Christine Baker

Erla Wilson

Claire Haillot

Annette Janca

Elaine Theriault

Margaret Sweete

Paul Léger

Evelyn Grimble & staff John De Fusco & Laura Coia

Evelyn Bouma

Ana Buzzalino

Ruth I. Forbes Rosalie I. Tennison Karen McCleary

Christine Allen

Rita Gramsch Kim Beamish Nellie Holmes Judith Marquis

Heather McArthur

Julie Plotniko

Luigina Baratto Cynthia MacDougall

Jacqueline Grice

Kate Atherley Olesya Lebendko

On this page are those with golden hands, whose needles dance through fabric and fibre to craft enduring works of art and heart.

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Gitta Al-basi & Kathrin Ellison

Alma Laidlaw Betty Biberdorf

Anna Stoklosa

Brandy Maslowski Brenda Franklin

Charles Voth Clodagh Coker Denise Powell

Trish Johnson Erica Nielsen Killins Jennifer Houlden Laura Gebhardt Laurie Russman

Lorraine Thompson Lucy Garvin Maria E. Gollek Maria Rypan

Cynthia, Fiona Ellis Marie Renee Otis Nancy Lekx Sarah Vanderburgh Tania Denyer

Nancy Devine, Michele Cheong, Iris Simpson Iryna Varabei

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Hands & Heart

Quilted Tote

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Faces

20 Whiskers of

Quilt Block Sampler

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Stitching Wisdom 20 Gentle Reminders

for Every Fibre Artist’s Journey

If I could sit down with my younger self – the one just starting out, elbows deep in fabric and ideas – I’d have a few things to say. It is not about techniques or tools (though those are important) but about the mindset, patience, and joy this path requires.

Back then, I often sought permission from others, compared my beginnings to someone else’s middle, and rushed toward finished pieces instead of enjoying the process. Over time, with stitches and many creative detours, I’ve learned to listen more closely – to my materials, my intuition, and the quiet voice that says, “this might be something.”

If I could sit down with my younger self, here are 20 things I’d whisper, gently and often. Whether you’re just beginning or deep into your fibre art practice, I hope something here resonates, reassures, or reignites a creative spark.

He sat and perched and nothing else

Tower Raven I

Stones unturned 2

In the Studio with 42

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Ana Buzzalino

On the Rooftops of the City where I Live

Pacific Dreams/Rêves du Pacifique May 5-10, 2026 Richmond, British Columbia

Pacific Dreams Rêves du Pacifique Seminar 2026

National Seminar

+ classes + shopping + friendships + exhibition + virtual classes + more + classes + shopping + friendships + exhibition + virtual classes + more + classes + shopping +

Registration opens September 1, 2025 EAC/ACB’s seminar features classes, an exhibition, prizes, stitchers’ boutique, a banquet and so much more!

Internationally renowned instructors include: • • • • • • •

Natalie Dupuis, CA Terri Bay, US Emma Boughton, UK Stephanie Bonneau, UK Wendy Innes, CA Heather Lewis, UK Kim Beamish, CA

More than 30 in-person and virtual classes to choose from!

Techniques include: • • • • • • • • •

box making goldwork boutis stumpwork canvas work punto-in-aria silk ribbon white work beading

See all the classes and instructors at

eac-acb.ca/seminar

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an in-person virtual exper and ience

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21!

Make a photo journal of your work Five years from now, let alone 20 years from now, there will be wonderful things you’ve created that might be lost to the unpredictability of human memory. Even a poor photo can act as a “memory jog” years later. While we’re discussing photos, with today’s digital tools, it’s very easy to keep backup copies of our photos–and I’m also referring to our treasured memories as well as our crafting records.

I have arranged to back up my photo memories onto a secure device like a memory card or USB drive and exchange it with someone I trust so we can safeguard each other’s memories. With the increasing frequency of natural disasters, having copies of our memories stored in a secure location outside our homes is a wise precaution.

You don’t need to use all 21 of these tips, but if you do, your knitting will benefit.

Improve your stitching experience with a Fabrikisto Stitching Frame Stand.

A versatile, well-made open-sided or two-sided stand and support to hold your stitching project while you work hands-free!

With a large stable base, this stand will stay in place while you work. You can use a single straight arm or the two provided arms to place your work just where you want it.

A large single-knob clamp will accommodate a wide variety of frames, hoops, or stretcher bars.

Cynthia MacDougall Knit Together Design Studio Orillia, Ontario ktogdesign@gmail.com ravelry name: macknitnow

Buy direct at https://stitchingstands.com Email: contact@stitchingstands.com Made in Canada.

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Madeira Cascade Wrap

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Yikes!

A Moth Socks 60

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APPLYING a SENSE of HUMOUR to

THE ART OF KNITTING SOCKS

Thoughtful Soles

Lorraine Thompson 64

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CLICK on the cart to purchase the pattern! or visit anpt.ca/thoughtful-soles

DARK MUSHROOMS

WIGGLE ROOM

WINTER IS COMING

COLOURWASH

WOOL STEW

HIGH FIBRE

BUMPS IN THE ROAD

T IS FOR TURN

TICK TOCK

GINGHAM APPLES

BALI POP

SIMPLY PUT

LAZY DAYS

SUNFLOWER

SMOOTH SAILING

MARS JARS

RED LEGS

BASEBALL FAN

A zany collection of 19 knitted sock patterns to tickle your funny bone every time you wear them.

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Dance of the

Rainforest Lap Rug

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-P ar

r e l p t Ha rmony Sam

Mokash

Goddess A Cross Stitched Hanging Talisman

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Photos by Iryna Varabei ●

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Pulled Thread Embroidery 20 Anniversary Mat th

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Sampler Fan in Stitches:

A Smocked Celebration of 88

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY To list your business please email john@aneedlepullingthread.com Bytowne Threads - Ottawa, ON  1.888.831.4095  bytownethreads.com  mlj@bytownethreads.com Featuring Aurifil thread from Italy. Long staple Egyptian cotton threads - 270 colours in 12, 28, 40 and 50 wt; 88 colours in 80 wt. Polyester Aurilux - 240 high sheen colours. Wool threads - 192 colours. Many kits available.

Check our website!

El Cajon Sew & Vac 1077 Broadway, El Cajon, CA 92021 619.442.2585, sewezr.com Gitta's 271 Lakeshore Rd E, Mississauga, ON L5G 1G8  905.274.7198  gittas.com  questions@gittas.com Nestled in the east village of Port Credit, Gitta's is the place where stitchers meet with their stitching friends, shop for stitching supplies and see the new stitching designs from Europe and the United States.

Haus of Stitches 626 Main Street, Humboldt, SK S0K 2A0  306.682.0772 or toll-free 1.800.344.6024  hausofstitches.ca Our one of a kind store offers everything you need for sewing, quilting, knitting, rug hooking and needlework.

Authorized dealers for Janome and Elna.

Kelly's Creative Sewing 804 Main St, Dartmouth, NS B2W 3V1  902.435.7380  kellyscreativesewing.ca  kellyscreativesewing@gmail.com We offer sales and on-site service of high-end domestic embroidery, sewing machines and sergers, as well as a variety of educational programs.

Ottawa Sewing Centre 1390 Clyde Ave, #107, Ottawa, ON K2G 3H9  613.695.1386  ottawasewing.com  ottawasewing@gmail.com Authorized Dealers for Brother, BabyLock, Elna, Q'nique & Grace quilting frames. Specialize in sales, parts & servicing for all makes & models of quilting/ embroidery/sewing/serger/overlock machines & cabinets by Sylvia Design.

Sew Productive 47 Mill St E, Acton, ON  519.853.0007  sewproductive.ca  melinda@sewproductive.ca Classes, clubs, fabric, thread, notions, crafting. Certified sales, service, and repair for Husqvarna VIKING®, PFAFF®, Singer®, and HandiQuilter®.

The Quilt Store / Evelyn's Sewing Centre 17817 Leslie St, Unit 40, Newmarket, ON L3Y 8C6  905.853.7001 or toll-free 1.888.853.7001 The Quilt Store West 695 Plains Rd E, Unit 6, Burlington, ON L7T 2E8  905.631.0894 or toll-free 1.877.367.7070  thequiltstore.ca Now with 2 locations to serve you, we are your Quilt Store Destination! The staff here at The Quilt Store is always on hand to provide Quilt Wisdom, Quilt Inspiration and most of all we pride ourselves as the place to make... All Your Quilt Dreams Come True!

Crochet Designs by NanaRuth 416-754-0998 www.NanaRuth.com NEW! Downloadable Book!

Main focus is traditional designs in crochet and knit for children.

All garments are designed and/ or handmade with discerning attention to comfort and finishing.

Baptismal sets, dresses, suits, blankets and shams, cardigans, hats and other items.

Rypan Designs 416.247.1993 www.rypandesigns.com NEW! Downloadable Patterns!

Maria Rypan is an international designer, researcher & instruction book publisher recognized for her ‘Gerdany’ beadwork and projects for many publications. Since 1995 Maria teaches, produces a kit line and presents on beading & global folk arts.

The Stitcher's Muse Needleart #101 - 890 Crace St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 2T3  250.591.6873  thestitchersmuse.com  info@thestitchersmuse.com A divine little shop with supplies for all your hand stitching needs! Friendly, knowledgeable, helpful staff. Cross stitch, canvaswork, needlepoint, embroidery, counted thread, lace making & more.

Books, patterns, fabric, threads, tools.

The Yarn Guy 15 Gower St, Toronto, ON M4B 1E3  416.752.1828 or toll-free 1.800.836.6536  theyarnguy.com  info@sewknit.ca See us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter! Knitting machines, sewing machines, repairs, parts for Passap, Studio, Singer, Silver Reed, Superba, White.

Sewing notions and supplies, books, ball yarns, coned yarns, TAMM yarns, Paton's yarns, Bernat yarns, Phentex yarns, Bernat kits & crafts.

Upper Canada Quiltworks – Quiltworks Studio PO Box 64, Brockville, ON K6V 5T7  613.865.7299  uppercanadaquiltworks.com  uppercanadaquiltworksstudio@gmail.com Quilt patterns and books, fabric and notions, felted wool, wool kits, punchneedle patterns and supplies and Valdani embroidery floss. Workshops in quilting, punchneedle, wool applique, rughooking, sewing, sign painting & more!

Lowery Workstands

The Strong Steel Workstands from England

www.workstands.com

Available in Canada from Tygarth Enterprises at 519-956-9632 or email to: tygarth@cogeco.ca

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2 BLOGS 2 follow!

KNITmuch O  UILTsocial free projects, essential tutorials, product reviews, quarterly magazines

EAT, SLEEP, QUILT, REPEAT!

Stitch, Press, Impress: quilting a cushion on the creative icon 2

visit QUILTsocial.com and download a FREE ebook: Elaine's Tech Tips, Quilting with Elaine Theriault!

* inspiring * informative * fun!

...to K, is to

Stick, Stitch, Soak: Transforming a Pullover with Sulky Fabri-Solvy

visit KNITmuch.com and download a FREE ebook: Cynthia MacDougall’s K Tog: Knitting Essentials!