Slugs and snails everywhere!

We live in a fairly damp part of the UK on the western side of the country. The garden is surrounded by dry stone walls which are paradise for snails, and slugs and all other manner of things that eat my plants. I am in. Instant battle to keep a hosta that lasts past June.

But now, they've even invaded my stitching! In fact, this snail looks as though he's on a mission to demolish a particularly tasty specimen.

Snail in raised stem band.

He hasn't got his shell on yet but I padded the shape and worked raised stem band for his body. Here is the tasty specimen he fancies....

Silk and organza flower

It completes the bling corner of the piece. The petals were made in silk organza that I painted with water colour paints and one is done in single Brussels in silk thread. I've also coloured the lady's features. But repadded her 'hair' piece with some carpet felt under the felt. I then started to stitch her hair with straight stitches first and I will then add the curls later.

Working hair in straight stitches first

I just thought I would recommend the RSN Stumpwork book by Kate Sinton for anybody who is interested in developing this area of embroidery themselves. I have followed her instructions for making a face step by step. The book is really clear and there are plenty of step by step photographs to help you along. Definitely a worthwhile purchase.

Great book

So, butterfly, snail shell and some titivation and all done. Ready for mounting next week at Tracy's in Durham and assessment. Phew...!