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Mystic, CT - October 15-16, 2010
Belinda Karls-Nace
of Blue Ribbon Designs
I have an enormous passion for needlework ~ friends and family rarely see me without a needle, my sketch book, or a project of some sort.
I was never formally introduced to cross-stitch (at least that I remember). I would watch my grandmother do crewel embroidery and crochet. My family always encouraged my creativity and I remember doing many crafts and needlework at a very early age. I have vivid memories of my first crewel embroidery and stamped cross-stitch at the age of six. I remember at elementary age stitching on plastic canvas – I was also taught how to crochet by an elderly neighbor that lived on our street (a skill I have yet to master). I really did not start counted cross-stitching until I was in high school – and it was self-taught – using kits I found at a local hobby store. As time passed, I began trying more stitches and techniques, working with various types of fabrics and threads. I became entranced with all different types/styles of needlework and mediums. I started attending as many classes and retreats as I could fit in my schedule - soaking in as much knowledge of handwork as possible. Needlework quickly became my passion!
In 2003, my stitching circle of friends encouraged me to enter items in the Iowa State Fair. I decided to enter five pieces and ended up taking home eight different ribbons (including “Best of Show”). Having my needlework so well received definitely gave me the confidence boost I needed to pursue needlework as a career. The name “Blue Ribbon Designs” was born from my state fair winning blue ribbons. I started Blue Ribbon Designs in early 2004 – I was working full-time at a mortgage company and designing in the evenings and on weekends. Mid 2004, the company I worked for was sold and many of the employees were out of work – myself included. With my design business already underway and my first eight original designs ready for release, I decided to jump in and try to make Blue Ribbon Designs my career (and never looked back!).
I love early/antique needlework and historical samplers. My designs tend to combine the concept of historical samplers with the styles and colors of today. Personally, I enjoy specialty stitches and stitching over-one; therefore, many of my designs incorporate a touch of these elements. I encourage the needleworker to choose colors and materials that suit their personality and skill level…and try to provide options for personalization and making each piece “their own”. A stitcher will also find designs in my catalog with encouraging/inspirational words and phrases - along with many geared towards gift giving. The influence of antique needlework styles and techniques can be seen in all of my designs….just with a little contemporary twist.
My current design catalog now has almost 100 pieces and I have been featured in numerous publications. My teaching experiences includes: EGA, needlework shops, and private retreats. I am a life member of the EGA (and member of the local guild - The Valley Junction Chapter), a life patron of ANG, a member of NAN, and a member TNNA.
Personal information:
I was born and raised in small town Iowa and currently reside in West Des Moines, Iowa with my husband and one precious dog (a Shih Tzu named Simba).
Iowa has a special place in my heart; I really can’t imagine living anywhere else. We have beautiful (but extreme) and colorful seasons - we definitely have a spring, a summer, an autumn, and a winter. I get the best of both worlds living in West Des Moines – the convenience of the city, but the countryside is only miles away.
When I am not doing counted thread designing and/or teaching, I enjoy taking care of my home and yard, cooking, sketching, and reading about historical needlework, antiques, and textiles - I also like to do girlie things with my friends...like shopping or having tea. I love to attend/watch sporting events and would be thrilled to spend any free time at a baseball park. In recent years, I have ignited a new passion for sewing, quilting, and machine embroidery.
Website: http://www.blueribbondesigns.com
Blog: http://blueribbondesigns.blogspot.com/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/BlueRibbonXS
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