By way of introduction, my name is Roberta ("Bobbi") Chase. Mention fine embroidery, crewel embroidery, ribbon embroidery; surface stitching, counted work, princess lace, cutwork, fine handsewing, historic costume, ribbon work, beads, buttons, or attachments, and I love it!! Involved since a very young age (remember those stamped napkins at the Woolworths?) at the knee of my Hungarian grandmother, needlework has always been (and continues to be) central in my life. I formally studied textiles, fashion and pattern drafting, but all the "by hand" aspects were the ones I craved. I found myself in many a museum’s vintage clothing collection as a "volunteer," soaking up all the information and texture that I could while I was "helping" them! After much learning, many classes, and wonderful experiences: Here I am!! Glad to meet you!

Pincushion Stand, as seen in Piecework magazine

Why "Embellishments"?

What is this all about? I am passionate about needlework, have taught fine handsewing classes for over 20 years, partnered in a retail needlework shop 4 years, and love to design, redesign, and experiment! "Embellishments" is what I began calling my business long ago because I just could not seem to limit myself to one particular type of needlework – and it occurred to me that what I loved to do was decorate (my house, my clothes, my friends) with embroidery, ergo: Embellishments.

What I hope to do with my little Web Shop is let you walk through my house and see what is going on! Offering you designs, kits, and "stuff" that you might find interesting, different, and even desirable!! I do not intend to be a thread shop, but will offer projects in a "kit" format to save you the trouble of having to search out obscure items. (That’s another thing I like to do: shop for obscure items!) Because vintage materials may be involved in some of the projects, the kit availability will be limited to first come, first served. Because of this – things will be changing. Be sure to check back often!

I have the Web Shop organized into "rooms" pertaining to general/specific types of things. (Not all of the rooms are filled yet.) Each room will contain appropriate kits, patterns, or projects pertaining to it. Toward the end of that page will be a listing of general supplies used for this type of work. These supplies will be available to order, as well

I am not responsible for everything in the Web Shop. I have a number of Very Talented Friends! that I am happy to represent and share with you. Nor does everything in the Web Shop have to do with embroidery and handwork. For example, "Embellishments for You and Your Home" contains things I have found (on those obscure shopping trips) that my needlework cohorts seem to like, such as the 3-Raspberry pin reminiscent of stumpwork, or the Chintz tea pot to go with your fancy tea cozy.

Thank you for stopping to meet me. Please feel free to contact me through email with any comments or questions. I understand the "order page" can be sometimes difficult to use, but just email me, tell me what you want, and we can work it out from there! [I have changed my shipping cost to reflect actual cost.] I’d love it if you would add me to your "Favorites" and come visit from time to time. I’d love to be of service.