Lines slow down, the noise grows quiet, Colors wander where thoughts once ran. In careful shades, the mind exhales, And calm returns, one hue at a time.

So I finished the grid for my perpetual wall calendar today. I’m excited! I will sew snaps in the days to attach the numbers. And I will add the month title above. There will also be two small art pieces each month. I will post the January pieces in the comments.

Dear stitching friend, You’re invited to participate in a fun, low-pressure, creativity-sparking event: The 2026 Fabric Flip Swap! 🎉🧵 If you love slow stitching, upcycling, and turning “hmm” fabrics into “how did you DO that?” keepsakes, this swap is for you. Watch the video posted under 'Classroom".

UPDATE: New process video and graphics added The theme will change monthly, but the spirit stays the same: gentle creativity, low pressure, and meaningful making. JANUARY'S THEME: Slow Beginnings. This month is about easing in—not starting over, not fixing anything, not racing toward goals. Just returning to your hands, your materials, and yourself at a pace that feels kind. There is no right way to participate. There is no expectation to finish anything. Showing up gently counts. As you move through January, let this question sit with you: What feels possible right now? You’ll find a few optional project ideas, colors, and invitations below. Take what fits. Leave the rest. JANUARY'S PROJECTS: Slow, Simple, Soft These are suggestions, not assignments. They’re meant to help you begin without pressure. Project Ideas - A scrap warm-up quilt block (no measuring, no rules) - A single junk journal page titled “What I’m Carrying In” - A small slow-stitched fabric square with one word or symbol - Sorting scraps and choosing just one to work with Optional Color Inspiration - Oatmeal - Soft gray - Winter white - Faded denim (Colors are here to inspire—not restrict. Use what you have.) JANUARY'S SELF-CARE SALAD: A simple, grounding reset you can make in minutes: - Spinach - Apple slices - Walnuts - Dried cranberries - Olive oil + fresh lemon + pinch of salt Think of this as nourishment, not a rule—just like our making WAYS TO PARTICIPATE THIS MONTH These small actions help keep the community warm and help you earn points—no pressure to do them all. Choose one or two: - 📸 Share a photo of your current creative space (mess welcome) - ✍️ Post a sentence or two about how you’re beginning this year creatively - 💬 Leave encouragement on at least 2 member posts - 🧵 Share one small thing you’re working on—or thinking about working on 🌿 Gentle Reminder Each month will bring a new theme, new inspiration, and new ways to engage—but always with the same cozy rhythm.

Lynda the paperclip pen holder is such a great idea. I always wish I had a pen clipped to my notebook. This idea really speaks to me. Thank you for adding it into the classroom.