The Mermaid - Getting Started

I'm getting ready to start on this beautifu, fun canvas - and have found zillions of really pretty shiny and sparkly things in my stash. However, I 'm resisting the urge for "overkill" on too many novelty threads, as this would ruin the overall effect of the patterns and colors - would be very distracting. She needs plenty of "sparkle and shine," but not on every square inch - just enough for emphasis of certain elements.

Gail attached the beads before she sent the canvas, and I will leave them in place - I don't want to remove them and risk misplacing or putting them back incorrectly. I think I can stitch around them - and I love the big bead in her navel. This is one glam mermaid!

I just returned from a shopping spree @ the LNS here in Austin - actually buying "refills" for my stash, and learned from Kimberly Smith, who is also a designer, that Sharpie now has a set of many colors of the ultra fine point drawing pen I like to use. She assures me it is safe, so this is exciting news. Previously, in the ultra fine point, there has been only black - or maybe a blue one or red. I believe they are available at Target.