A notice about some needlework demonstrations led me to Parham House which has a collection of early needlework that might be worth a visit. Looks like there's a fairly convenient train-bus connection (changing at Havant) so I could get there without a car.
In the letters section 'From the Studio' is a letter suggesting embroideries for dolls houses, which I think would be an excellent suggestion for the magazine. Dolls houses are one of those craft areas that are enjoying a revival (like knitting) so would be a good selling point for a future issue. They're also something that experienced stitchers enjoy doing, since they often involve miniature pieces.
I liked the coloured hardanger accessories. I do like white hardanger, but I also enjoy seeing the effects achieved by using the variegated pearl cottons. One of the nice features in New Stitches is how they'll often do several samples in different colours, so you can get an idea of what you might like to use.
I might stitch the Clamshell bookmark, which would be quick, and is an elegant combination of blackwork and cross stitch. I was going to sign up for the Bookmark Swap in the Crafts Forum this year, but it's fallen at a busy time for me. Perhaps I'll just build up a selection of bookmarks for next year!
The Cross Stitch Gallery section was all geared towards babies. No new arrivals in the offing at the moment, but might be useful in the future.
The article on French Whitework had some lovely closeups, more pictures can be seen at Danielle Carl including the lovely wedding dress bodice (go to Creations - Clothing).
