Lesson Two of our Friends Mystery Class is complete, and our quirky little kitty is really beginning to show off her personality!

This lesson was all about the cat—and yes, I did everything I could to make her look tall and thin. We all want that, right?

To create that illusion, we used two different Laid Filling Stitches that gently elongate her body while adding wonderful texture. It’s one of those subtle design decisions that makes a surprising difference.

Then came the polka dots.

She is covered in fabulous, colorful dots, and I couldn’t resist asking the question: How many ways can we stitch a dot?

Apparently… quite a few!

We mixed fun threads with playful pattern stitches, giving each dot its own personality. Some sparkle, some have texture, and some are wrapped rings that add even more dimension to the canvas. Combined with additional Jessicas, the surface is becoming wonderfully dimensional. Every time you look at it, another little detail catches your eye.

We also began the flowers, starting with a graceful tulip stitched in Color Dreams Petite Silk Lamé Braid. The soft sheen of the thread gives the petals just enough glow without overwhelming the design, and it’s the perfect introduction to the colorful garden that’s about to bloom.

Next lesson is July 19, and we’ll be diving into —the flowers and that adorable little birdie. Fingers crossed I can get everything stitched in time!

If you’ve been thinking about stitching this, canvases are in stock, you can even join the last class if you would like.   Here’s the link.

See you in the garden!