(... or is it part of my evil plot to get you stitching this Summer?)
I'm so honored my friend, Natalie, asked me to be part of the blog tour for her first book, Cotton Floss. Natalie is an expert stitcher with such an unmistakeable style. I'm crazy for her work. And I know if you are not already a Cinderberry Stitches fan, you will be momentarily. You'll need to find out her other exciting news over at her blog, but here's a hint... she's has something in common with Monica, Lynette, Denise, Sarah, Meg, Brenda, Rosalie and moi.
But with out further Adieu... here it is! Do you love the owls as much as I do?
The dreamy cover leads to super fun projects that feature simple stitches and great ideas.
I particularly love the way Natalie tells a story with each of her designs. This is Lizzie. She's got a "cheeky" and charming personality like her adorable creator.
I couldn't resist diving right into this book. So I started with one of the blocks above. It is also featured as a cover you can make for your books, which is what I'm planning on doing with my block. I framed it with a little Paris Apartment ("le salle du Soleil" or "sun room" in the coral colorway).
I bet you'd love a copy of this book. Natalie generously sent one for me to give away. AND... I'm also throwing in a Paris Apartment charm pack, which by the by mixes quite nicely with our friend Monica's Happy Mochi Yum Yum. (M gave away a charm pack on her end of the tour... I totally copied her for this give-away. You can't blame me, can you? She's got some rockin' good ideas.)
Here's the dealy if you want to win... leave a comment here swearing on your life that if you don't already embroider, you'll start.
Alright. I'm just kidding. But really. Stitch, K? And leave a comment here to tell Natalie that she is the queen of stitches and you love her dearly and that if you don't win, you'll purchase the book straight away.
That's all. I'll pick a winner on Monday. Deal?
Thank you!
Oh, and also, go to all these stops on the blog tour if you haven't already. You'll find not just the tour but a slew of incredible talent.
Sunday 6/12 Monica
Monday 6/13 Amanda
Tuesday 6/14 Pam
Wednesday 6/15 Sarah
Thursday 6/16 Krista
Friday 6/17 Yours Truly... you are here already.
Saturday 6/18 Shari
Sunday 6/19 Paige
UPDATE: JUNE 20, 2011 -- The winner is #114
Indianna, please email me at bari at barijonline dot com to claim your prize!
A WINNER HAS BEEN PICKED. NO MORE ENTRIES, PLEASE.
I'll start! I'll start! Well, I'll restart - loved embroidery when I was in H.S. :)
Posted by: Karen a/k/a/ The Lazy Quilter | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 04:46 AM
I'm so drooling over this book because I LOVE to stitch! Natalies patterns are gorgeous and I'm so frustrated they are so hard to find here in the states :( I hope this changes!
Posted by: Elisa Richardson | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 04:46 AM
Natalie's embroidery patterns are so cute - I'd love to make them all!
Thank you for sharing your lovely fabric and the book with us!
Posted by: Duabe | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 04:59 AM
I do already stitch, but not nearly often enough. This looks like just the thing to inspire me to get back to it! Such loveliness!
Posted by: Mindy | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:14 AM
I love the whole idea of embroidery and want to start!!! The Birdie Quilt along got me interested...have the patterns, the jelly roll, the thread....just haven't dived into the embroidery yet! I'd love to win this book for some inspiration!
Posted by: Deb | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:20 AM
This book is so stinkin' cute! I do not stitch. But I should. I must. Really... this is too adorable not to!!
Posted by: Gypsy Thread | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:21 AM
I'd love to win a copy of Nat's book - her work is gorgeous and perfectly compliments your Paris Apartment fabric. I already embroider so all's good.
Posted by: TinaD | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:31 AM
Love these peeks at the book. Can't wait to get my hands on it. It is so seriously cute. I need to get started on those mushrooms and owls...
Posted by: Stephanie Lee | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:32 AM
I love Natalie's work, she is definitely my favorite designer. I have a few of Nat's pattern's but would really like to win the book. I would have trouble knowing where to start but I think the bag is a must.
Posted by: Debbie P | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:36 AM
I heart Natalie and her stitches! I am already a passionate stitcher and love to find new designs!
Posted by: Gretchen | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:37 AM
Wow, great book! Stitching is so relaxing as Natalie says she is amazing doing all of this with a toddler in tow.
Posted by: Casey | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:39 AM
I would love a chance to win this book
I love the colors Natalie uses - So vibrant & her patterns are incredible !!!
I really want to make the quilt - I already embroider so it's a perfect fit !!!!!
Thank you for the chance :)
Posted by: PattyC | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:40 AM
So glad Natalie has a book. It will be easier to fet ahold of than her patterns :)
Posted by: Julie | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:47 AM
I love embroidery! And such lovely patterns... Hooray!
Posted by: Jennifer | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:48 AM
Absolutely adorable & I love the intricate patterns! Yum!!! I DO embroider & would thoroughly enjoy working these pieces.
Posted by: Rita S | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:50 AM
Love stitcheries it is mind soothing to just sit and stitch with coffee and cake (or block of cadbury ;)
Posted by: Sharyn | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:56 AM
Wow! You are not kidding this special sneak peek of Natalie book looks amazing; like a must have book for creative types. I love the embroidered pattern squares just to fun. Pick me! Pick me! Pick me to WIN the book.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Smiles, Paula
Posted by: Paula Parrish | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:56 AM
i love Nat's designs and i already have quite a few of her patterns so i would dearly love her book to sit with them, ohh and that fabric is just devine,thankyou for a chance to win these lovely prizes,pick me,pick me,lol.
Posted by: Sheryl Scholte | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:58 AM
I love embroidery but am quite a beginner at it! These designs are adorable -- Looks like such a charming book!
Posted by: Susan | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 06:02 AM
I do love Natalie and I do love stitching...so that is easy! And if I do not win this book..boohoo...it is already in my cart over at Daisy Cottage Designs! Cannot wait to get started on this cute cute cute mushrooms!!
Posted by: Patricia | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 06:22 AM
I do some embroidery and would love to encorporate more into my quilts - this book looks incredibly awesome and it is very clear that Natalie is one uber talented lady!! Thanks for the chance!
Posted by: Mimi | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 06:26 AM
I love to embroider and I would love to try out some of Natalie's patterns. Thank you for the chance!
Posted by: Anita | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 06:26 AM
I have dabbled in embroidery a wee bit - it really is beautiful. Thank you for the chance to win this awesome book and those too sweet charms!
Posted by: Hanna | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 06:27 AM
I really adore Natalie's style. It is cute, sassy and fun all at the same time!
If I don't win you know I need another book by your group of Lecien sisters, you all are so creative and talented in your own unique ways!
Posted by: CaraQuilts | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 06:31 AM
Lizzy is so cute! I can't wait to get this book.
Posted by: Brie | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 06:34 AM
I've had an interest in embroidery since I inherited my great-aunt's embroidered linens. I have the materials (mostly), but no jumping off point. I've just signed up for a combo BOM at Clover & Violet that incorporates embroidery. I can't wait to learn! Then, I see these really FUN designs (not your traditional embroidery by any means!).... If I don't win, I will have to buy a copy! LOVE this book!
oh, and.....
I swear on my life that I will start embroidering, and, Natalie, you are the queen of stitches and I love you dearly and if I don't win, I'll purchase the book straight away.
:)
Posted by: Karyn Ashley-Smith | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 06:49 AM
I try and do what I'm told sooooooo Natalie you are the queen of stitches and I love you dearly and that if I don't win, I'll purchase the book straight away!
Hugs
Naomi
Posted by: Naomi Vela | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 06:50 AM
I've done alot of embroidery in the past, but after seeing these cute peeks, I know I'll be getting this book and restarting. Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Syd Olsen | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 06:51 AM
I will start embroidery.. I will, promise..
Natalie, you are the queen of stitches...*hugs*
Thanks for the chance...
I am following the tour..
Posted by: hueisei | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 06:55 AM
That book looks so fun! Love the cover! I dabble in embroidery and love it, although I don't know how to do any fancy stitches! -yet! Also, Natalie is totally the queen of stitches!!
Posted by: Lori Porten | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 06:59 AM
I used to embroider some little things on almost everything that I made. I will definitely use this new floss to return to my embellishments and my quilt labels.
Posted by: B | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 07:21 AM
Oh, I would love to win the "Cotton Floss" book. Just what I need to start embroidering. Love the floss too.
Posted by: Connie Teasley | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 07:32 AM
This has to be the BEST craft book ever! I am a huge Natalie fan and an currently working on "Sublime Season". This book is on order (hopefully to arrive as there is a mix-up on my order). I can't say enough good things about all the work that goes into designing: just that as a stitcher I really appreciate the beautiful patterns. Looking forward to more wonderful ideas from Natalie!!
Posted by: Deanna | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 07:35 AM
I do embroider and certainly will MORE with this book! love her designs. thanks for the great giveaway!
Posted by: Lee | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 07:37 AM
I adore embroidery and will put down what I'm currently working on to start and FINISH her adorable pattern/projects. Nothing better than sitting and stitching and her patterns are fresh and like nothing I've seen. Fingers tightly crossed!
Posted by: Polly | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 08:00 AM
I'm new to stitching so this book would be a great jumping off point for me.
Posted by: Ladybug | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 08:10 AM
I need to start embroidering. I've been a cross stitcher (before my kids came along). I swear if I win (and even if I don't)I will start. What an incredible book. I've got to stop buying at the moment, but as soon as I can again if I don't win I will buy this!
Posted by: Chiska | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 08:19 AM
I'm a smocker but I have been aching to try my hand at some of this type of embroidery. I hope to try in July after my daughter's wedding (no new projects allowed before the wedding clothes are finished)
Posted by: Jeanette Gretsch | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 08:38 AM
I would love to win this book! It looks fabulous!!
Posted by: Jennyroo | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 08:42 AM
I have embroidered but haven't touched it in a while. Looking at tge projects you are always working on inspires me to pick it ip again. :)
Posted by: Jennwith4 | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 08:50 AM
I have been in love with her work..for---ev---er..and, after a LONG hiatus from stitching (interrupted by scrapbooking, crochet, knitting, painting, craft-collecting..) I have finally returned to my very first love..embroidery! Easy, relaxing, portable, fun and fabulous..sort of like me...(!) Well, not so much the 'easy' part..Ahem...
Posted by: Colleen | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 08:53 AM
I swear I embroider. I enjoy it, too! Thanks for the giveaway. Love the book!
Posted by: Mary F | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 09:03 AM
I'm thinking some of these patterns would be fun to incorporate into a baby quilt. It's been awhile since I embroidered, but it may be time to pull out the needles....
Posted by: lwm | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 09:05 AM
LOVE YOUR BLOG!
LOVE NATALIE'S TOO+ALL HER STITCHERY!
WONDERFUL GIVEAWAY-THANKS SO FOR SHARING!
HAPPY SUMMER!
Posted by: Linda | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 09:24 AM
I do stitch already, so combining embroidery and quilting sounds like a fantastic idea. They are adorable patterns!
Posted by: Alexis | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 09:27 AM
i actually started adding embroidery to my quilt projects since finding her blog! now i'm wishing i could try some cosmo thread; thread on a spool that i don't have to separate? who could resist that?
Posted by: Tammy | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 09:31 AM
I would really like a copy of this book & will definitely buy it if I don't win. Also, love your fabric.
Posted by: Kay Mc | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 09:45 AM
Great book.. I use to embroider....Im certain this beautiful boook would motivate me to start again!!!! Thanks for the opportunity to win :D Nurse Payne
Posted by: cathy payne | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 10:03 AM
Natalie is the queen of stitches and I already do embroidery and have since I was a very little girl!
Posted by: Tammy Hensley | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 10:07 AM
Natalie really is the queen of stitches. I love her designs. I love to do embroidery and especially enjoy it in the hot weather when it is too hot to quilt. Thanks for the chance to win in your giveaway.
Posted by: Kathy H | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 10:20 AM
Me too, I just love Natalie's stitcheries! They are so sweet! I am a stitcherie fan since last year. It is so relaxing to stitch whereever I am! Thanks for the great give away!
Posted by: Martina | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 10:28 AM
Love the looks of this book. I need to do more embroidery. Owls are my favorite these days.
Posted by: Carol H | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 10:29 AM
yes, I do embroider but not as much as I used too. I'll get back into it, promise. I will add this book to my library one way or the other! Thanks for the chance to win it.
Posted by: Mary Ann | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 10:47 AM
I've been told to "tell Natalie that she is the queen of stitches and you love her dearly and that if you don't win, you'll purchase the book straight away." Well, I would have done that without any coaxing anyway!!!
Posted by: Jean | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 10:53 AM
This book looks amazing. I was a long time stitcher ... back when you had only 1 kind of floss to pick from. With all the games, practices & Dr. appt., I've been wanting to give it a go again, but I need INSPIRATION ... and here it is. Thanks for the change to win and for new inspiration.
Posted by: Char | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 10:54 AM
I already embroider, but mostly pastels on baby things. Would LOVE to have this book. And I love Paris Apt. Linda
Posted by: Linda Bloom | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 10:59 AM
Ever so cute! I NEED to get back into embroidery...
Posted by: Barbara G | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 11:06 AM
After seeing all of Natalie's wonderful work, I ordered two of her two patterns. I put two more on my running wish list, although I really wanted to add them all. I will be stitching soon.
Posted by: Dell | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 11:12 AM
I do stitch and will continue to do so. Natalie, you are the queen of stitches and I love you dearly and if I don't win, I'll purchase the book straight away.
Barj: I am officially the "Stitch Suck Up" :)
Nat: You know in your heart I meant every word I said. :)
Posted by: Jeanne Gwin | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 11:22 AM
I love to stitch and I have several of Natalie's patterns. They are the cutest and so sweet ~ I love them. Thanks for the chance to win this lovely little book.
Happy Stitching!!!
Posted by: edyB | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 11:40 AM
I love to hand stitch. I always have a hand project with me when I am in the car waiting for my kids to finish what they are doing! I want to win this book. It looks awesome!!!
Posted by: Cindy Farmer | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 11:41 AM
I will put my embroidery for a couple of minutes and send you this comment!! Would loove to be the winner of your draw. Fingers crossed.........
Posted by: Oriel | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 11:43 AM
I already stitch but I'm always looking for my next project. (Who works on just one at a time?haha). Natalie's book looks wonderful and it is on my "must have" list! If I don't win then I will be buying this book. What a great giveaway with Natalie's book and a Paris Apt charm pack. Beautiful Fabric !! Thank you for the chance to win.
Posted by: Jodi Guerrero | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 11:47 AM
I love Natalie's work. It's that perfect blend of whimsy and sweet. Hand embroidery is one of my favorite things to do. This book would be a perfect way to wile away the hours. :) Thanks for the chance.
Posted by: Karin | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 11:50 AM
Part 2... Natalie.. You are the Queen of Stitching and I love you dearly. If I don't win I will be purchasing this book right away. (see previous post haha) Thanks again!
Posted by: Jodi Guerrero | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 11:54 AM
Would love to win he book. It's so whimsical.
Posted by: Billie K | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 12:52 PM
Any friend of Bari's is a friend of mine, and I can tell that the book is one of those unique must haves for the stitching crowd. Thanks for introducing us Bari.
Posted by: Laura G | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 01:34 PM
I love to embroider and am a new discoverer of Natalie and just love all her things. I will definitely being buying this book if I don't win but I hope I do. This book fascinates me.
Posted by: Ramona | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 01:45 PM
Where do we find the book to purchase it? I know she lives in Australia. I couldn't find it on Amazon. Has it been released or will it be released later on? Would love to know how to purchase a copy! Thanks!
Posted by: Kathy | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 01:49 PM
The stitching did as a youngster looked nothing like this! Has completely inspired me to start learning again.
Posted by: Patti | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 01:53 PM
All hail the Queen of Embroidery.......thanks for such delightful characters to stitch!
From your royal jester
Designing_Sharon
Posted by: Sharon Scalise | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 02:20 PM
I will start stitching straight away! :)
This book looks fantastic - loving the patterns
Posted by: Manda | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 02:56 PM
I love Natalie's designs and I'd be thrilled to win a copy of her book. I so enjoy embroidery - this book is a winner!
Posted by: Pat S | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 03:16 PM
Natalie's designs are so full of color and are a treat for the eye! I used to stitch a LOT but haven't lately, but I think this grab bag of inspiration, I could get back to it again! Thanks for a great giveaway!
Posted by: Susan hahaj | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 03:30 PM
Everything is soooo cute!! I love it all.
Karen in Breezy Point
Posted by: Karen in Breezy Point | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 03:55 PM
Kathy fabric patch have it in Coolum Australia. The patchwork Angel in Forest Glen Australia.
You will find most of the Australian patchwork shops have it. The other thing you could do is contact Creative abundance they are her distributors.
Posted by: Debbie P | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 04:01 PM
This book is lovely! I think the toadstools are so cute! Please enter me in to your give away! Thanks!
Posted by: Joy | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 04:03 PM
Oh I so totally swear that (though I already embroider) how about I swear to keep on keepin on!
Posted by: Robyn Brown | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 04:26 PM
I have been embroidering pretty consistently for over 40 years. Can you tell that I love it? I think the patterns are great and they would look wonderful in a quilt (another one of my loves)
Posted by: Barbara Young | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 04:59 PM
Heehee... I love your voice and style! So easy and enjoyable to read!
Yes, Natalie *is* an awesome stitcher! I haven't done a lot of embroidery in my limited sewing experience but I do have the oh so gorgeous 'Sail Away' and 'Girls&Dolls' to get into, and my darling husband has been expressly informed that I am to receive 'Cotton Floss' for my birthday next month! :oD
x
Posted by: Heidee Hallam | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 05:10 PM
What a sweet book packed with pure fun! I neeeeed it! :)
Posted by: Mona | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 06:24 PM
I used to do embroidery, but haven't done it for many years. I want to make a wall hanging for my mom for Christmas. I think it would be neat to embroider her wedding anniversary on the wall hanging. The pattern I want to use is "Welcome Home" by Alex Anderson. I would love to win the book. Thanks for the opportunity!
Posted by: Tracey | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 06:24 PM
This looks a fun and creative book -- I would love to win -- thanks for the giveaway opportunity!
Posted by: Peggy | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 07:30 PM
I am stitching for my life - a bit of wool embroidery on a blanket and I'm up to the stem stitch in floss now. I love the flowers I'm doing, but I really, really, really want to try some of Natalies cutest designs. Thanks for the chance.
Posted by: quilary | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 08:04 PM
I've been a stitcher off and on since I was a kid. I've picked it back up and cannot wait to see this cute book!
Posted by: Angie | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 08:36 PM
i LOVE CINDERBERRY STITCHES. BOOK LOOKS WONDERFUL. liNDA gERIG
Posted by: LINDA GERIG | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 08:45 PM
Yes, I love them as much as you do.
Yes, I swear I'll start stitching.
No, I don't think I could quilt through such cute embroidery blocks.
Posted by: Lori | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 09:37 PM
I'm a Cinderberry Stitches fan. I'm teaching my Girl Scouts to do embroidery. This would be fun to show them and share.
Posted by: Sharrieboberry | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 09:57 PM
I have never stitched before but sure would like to give it a go. Natalie is a gem her work is so fresh and colorful.
Posted by: Amy | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 10:48 PM
I am enjoying this bloghop, seeing some lovely new blogs. Of course, to win a copy of Natalie's book would be a wonderful bonus.
Posted by: Kerry | Friday, June 17, 2011 at 11:34 PM
Natalie's work is definitely lovely! Who wouldn't want her book!? I certainly do!
Posted by: Janelle | Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 01:29 AM
Of course Natalie IS the queen...no the empress of stitches !!! I love so much her patterns that I will be very happy to win !!!
Florence
Posted by: Florence SCHNEIDER | Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 02:10 AM
she is indeed and that's why I want this book to complete my collection
keeping my fingers crossed
Posted by: Lil | Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 03:10 AM
Natalie's patterns are awesome. I have a couple I am getting ready to start for my grandchildren. I would love to win the book so I can keep on stitching.
Posted by: charlotte | Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 03:51 AM
Totally love embroidery and Natalie...brilliant giveaway! Thanks so much
Posted by: Corey | Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 05:07 AM
Natalie is the queen of stitches and I love her dearly and if I don't win, I'll purchase the book straight away!
Posted by: Mary Kolb | Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 07:09 AM
I'm loving this book.
Posted by: Jennifer | Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 08:21 AM
I love to stitch and I am dying for this book! The designs are so stinking cute!=) Thanks for the opportunity to win!
Posted by: Sandy Narayan | Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 09:06 AM
really i will start up again - I have always loved her designs but have never tried one. they are cute cute cute! So inspiring!
Posted by: Stephanie | Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 09:44 AM
you are very funny. i stitch, though i just rescued a bee from water and he stung me on my stitching middle finger so i have a copper penny taped to the finger and i am trying to figure out how i can stitch with that penny taped there. i will purchase the book if i cannot win one. cannot do without natalie's stuff. thank you for the chance.
Posted by: Scarlette | Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 01:58 PM