Melitastitches4fun's Blog

One of the books in Nanette Costa’s library was from one of my favorite teachers, Mary Shipp. It’s Exploring Pattern in Stitches which is a very interesting topic. I took two of my first three Correspondence Courses from Mary on Color and Design.

Mary grabbed me right from the beginning with her dedication by citing teachers she learned from. No big surprise that I have both the books she references.

In the introduction, Mary says she enjoys the process and does not need the product. That is probably why a number of my projects are completed but not finished. It may also account for why I have multiple projects started.

She provides a variety of patterns but gives tips on modifying them and creating your own. Any threads will work. Any color combination can be employed but color options are discussed including a review of The One-Three-Five Rule.

The coolest thing about the pattern project Mary includes is that beyond the Master Diagram marking off 5 areas, “you are on your own” for choosing patterns and colors. There is lots to read before tackling it (in 2026). Very exciting!!