The Exemplary 2025
3rd Place, Professional Non-Original without Instruction

Nutcrackers (the wooden type) have always been part of the holiday décor in our home. While we frequently attend a Christmas performance of the ballet, the Mouse King, a key figure, wasn’t a part of our décor…and it became apparent he needed to be added. Once I found a painted canvas, then the question was how simple or how many different stitches and threads should be used. Simplicity won! With basketweave, split stitches, metallic threads, Very Velvet, and beads, he became a welcome and attractive addition to our Christmas displays.