The Exemplary 2023:
1st Place, Non-Professional Non-Original with Instruction

Having always loved my Lyn Haney’ Santas and my Rebecca Wood Santa stockings done for my children and grandchildren, I was immediately drawn to this beautiful piece by Melissa Shirley for MYSELF! It was the “total package”: wonderful face and eyes, great coat, and a fabulous tree. I played around with many shades of Splendor and accent Kreinik for both the red and green sections. I wanted genuine leather buttons and bells and a great tassel. And the eyes twinkle! My instructor, Kathy Stolpin, encouraged me to use beads for all the ornaments, which was very daunting! I accepted the challenge and I believe it was worth it. I enjoyed adding a few more embellishments to the tree and beading to the roping. The red cardinal sits on a branch. The finishing is perfect, and it makes me smile every time I pass it.