By Kathryn Berman:  I’m a beginner needlepointer (I’ve done 3 projects total in my life), but lately I have been thinking that with a little extra free time on my hands during the coronavirus pandemic it would be fun to get to work on a new project. Stitching is like a good book that you can’t put down… let me finish just this one row, or this one color.  I find needlepointing relaxing yet addicting, and now seems like just the time to put my extra energy into a project as opposed to watching the news or worrying about family members.

Lemons make Lemonade Needlepoint Canvas

I wanted to work on a project that would feel positive, and one that I could hang up on a tiny wall space in my kitchen. I was trying to think of positive sayings that would be fun to stich, but also would look good as permanent artwork in my home. I’m a big believer in positive thinking, and an eternal optimist, but even I’ve gotten a little down lately, and what better way to brighten my day then to be stitching a positive saying.  I’ve always loved the saying “when life gives you lemons make lemonade”, and I asked the Needlepaint team (headed by my husband 🙂  to design a custom needlepoint canvas for me.  What seems more smile inducing than stitching a big juicy yellow lemon?

I love what they came up with!  The Lemons make Lemonade needlepoint canvas is now available on NeedlePaint. Hopefully I can finish it before summer.  Another really cool thing, is that I printed out my canvas preview and taped it to my kitchen wall where I intend to put the finished project.  I of course debated long and hard about what color the background checkers should be- but am sticking with blue for now. I love that I can easily change colors/design ideas with the help of the Needlepaint designers and get a good idea of what my canvas will look like before I get started on it.

What other ideas do you have for positive uplifting quotes that would make a fun needlepoint project?

Here are a few others I thought of: “Create your own sunshine” with a big yellow sun. “Stay positive” surrounded by a colorful rainbow.  “Be happy” surrounded by flowers. Stay positive and keep on stitching!