Updated May 5, 2020.
I have used these die-cut monthly calendars for years. I have found them at Paper Source, in JapanTown in SF, and on Amazon. Made by Greeting Life, a Japanese company, these calendars feature simple outlines and heavy paper. I love this little cat and am planning some kitty needlepoints. I’m taking one card, copying and enlarging it and will use it as a line drawing for making some needlepoint.
Not only so they make cats in several positions, there are several breeds of dogs, and other birds and animals. Because the outlines are simple, think about copying one, adding the necessary details in Tent and then fill the outline with a great stitch.
Buy one of these calendars for someone and not only do they have a practical gift but the start of some great needlepoint.
Coloring books, if they aren’t too detailed, also make great sources for lovely needlepoint. If you know a Charley Harper fan, think about this Charley Harper coloring book. You’ll find many of his popular images, along with some that are less well-known. For stitching for yourself (others have commercial licenses), this is a real treat.
Consider coloring books and postcard books by other artists as well. A postcard of lovely fallen leaves from Japanese Maples was the starting point of an original needlepoint many years ago.
Another great place to look for inspiring books is books made for collectors of various kinds. These books usually feature lots of pictures of items, many of which are adaptable as needlepoint. My bookshelves here in the studio are full of them, including ones on vintage tablecloths, handkerchiefs and menus, one of Southwestern pottery, and one on Zulu telephone wire baskets (pictured above). The black cat free needlepoint design on the blog was taken from a book of vintage ads using cats.
So how do you know what to buy as a gift for a needlepointer? Look at the person’s likes and dislikes and find something unusual and inspiring.
About Janet M Perry
Janet Perry is the Internet's leading authority on needlepoint. She designs, teaches and writes, getting raves from her fans for her innovative techniques, extensive knowledge and generous teaching style. A leading writer of stitch guides, she blogs here and lives on an island in the northeast corner of the SF Bay with her family
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