Cross Stitching Addicts!

[Jane&Andy]

A place to chat about cross stitch and show off your work. :)

here's some pictures of various things I've made:
xmas potholder
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d801b3127cce9c1570e26c1000000016108AZN27Ny3btK
xmas towels
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d801b3127cce9c1570d3ed1100000016108AZN27Ny3btK
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d803b3127cce9c1570dddc7700000016108AZN27Ny3btK

[Jane&Andy]

more xmas towels
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d806b3127cce9c1570dba61500000016108AZN27Ny3btK
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d930b3127cce9c1570c760ee00000016108AZN27Ny3btK
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d935b3127cce9c1570c51a8800000016108AZN27Ny3btK
Wedding cross stitch
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d909b3127cce9c1570c324fa00000016108AZN27Ny3btK

[Jane&Andy]

xmas towel
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d911b3127cce9c1570c1687a00000016108AZN27Ny3btK
xmas pattern to be framed
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d620b3127cce9c1570cfae9300000026118AZN27Ny3btK
xmas towels
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4ce00b3127cce9c1570ad19a600000016108AZN27Ny3btK
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4ce05b3127cce9c1570ab63c400000016108AZN27Ny3btK

[Jane&Andy]

breadcloth
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4ce05b3127cce9c157096e2c900000016108AZN27Ny3btK
I cross stitch this on sweatshirts for my neices and nephews
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4ce10b3127cce9c157092118a00000016108AZN27Ny3btK
xmas potholder
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4ce10b3127cce9c157090118800000016108AZN27Ny3btK
xmas sweatshirt
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf39b3127cce9c15709cd0ed00000016108AZN27Ny3btK

[Jane&Andy]

ok, here's the last of it

giving this one to my MIL for xmas
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5db03b3127cce91e97114de6500000016108AZN27Ny3btK
and I made this one for my neice
http://images.snapfish.com/343%3C9%3C6723232%7Ffp63%3Dot%3E2328%3D%3C26%3D524 %3DXROQDF%3E2323587%3C8%3B836ot1lsi

[emschwar]

Hey, I'm here! I've been on a cross stitch hiatus for a while, but now I'm making this:
http://63.210.199.178/04/18/8/41882.jpg.fpx?qlt=70&wid=144&cvt=jpeg
for MIL for xmas

[KristyK]

Haven't done anything in quite awhile though. I love it, and still continue to buy books. The latest thing I've been working on is this "golf" thing for my dad. It's how I found out how really blind I am, I had to move to super strength reading glasses when I had to do a very light blue, one strand half stitches on about 1/3 of the picture. Yep, I'm blind as a bat!

Maybe when I'm done, I'll post it. We'll see! Jane, keep those beautiful pictures coming, you're very talented!

Kristy

[Jane&Andy]

pretty pattern Emily. :)

thanks Kristy. I haven't cross stitched much lately but I'll be sure to post pictures when I finish something else.

[mmeblue]

I do a lot of stitching! I have several projects going in a rotation - I work on one for 10 hours (using a stopwatch to time my stitching) and then move on to the next. I scan my progress at each 10-hour mark, so I'll probably be posting a lot of intermediate pics. But for now, here's a link to my most recent finish (the pic is pretty big):

Cedar Waxwings (http://mmeblue.home.comcast.net/images/cedarwax.jpg)

[mmeblue]

Just reached the 50-hour mark on one of my projects - it's a chart derived from this photo (http://mmeblue.home.comcast.net/images/FountainEdit.jpg), using the software Pattern Maker (http://www.hobbyware.com/). I'm stitching it one-over-one on 28-count linen, and TONS of confetti (stitches scattered all over the place). Here's the progress pic:

http://mmeblue.home.comcast.net/images/fountain50.jpg

[Brandles]

Jane&Andy--

I LOVE your projects! I've been working on a wedding one (sorry no pictures) for two of DH's friends who are getting married in September. It's almost done. Then, I'm going to start on a new baby one for a cousin who is due at the end of September.

[flygirl]

It's been so long since I posted here, er, I mean, in the "other" thread :D

No pics right now, but I recently finished a sunflower for my mom & I'm working on a "Welcome Baby" for my friend who's due in August. She's on the boards but I know she won't come in here :) I should be working on it now, but instead decided to join this damn board :D

mmeblue, that's amazing! I *love* doing complicated work like that...well, actually, I love *completing* complicated work; I get so frustrated while doing it sometimes! I don't have the patience to sit through it for very long.

[Jane&Andy]

gorgeous cross stitch mmeblue. :)

thanks Brandles. :)

[mmeblue]

Thanks flygirl and Jane&Andy!

I just started a new project last night, Stoney Creek's Rest Stop (http://www.stoneycreek.com/Leaflet_pages/lflt94.htm) - did about 45 minutes on it, not counting the time I spent pulling out about half the stitches because I'd made one little mistake. :rolleyes: But I'm going to concentrate my efforts this week on finishing a quilt, so the stitching is on hold until that's done. :)

[Jenean]

Oooh, you guys are inspiring me to start stitching again! We moved a few months ago and all my crafting things were in boxes in the basement until last week. And now I'm itching to get going on some proejcts again!

This was my favorite project so far, for my best friend's wedding:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b2cc03b3127cce9cb453225c4200000016109AZtmzRu4aO

And two of the baby bibs I've done (I do a couple of these for each of my friends who's having a baby:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4df01b3127cce9cb454ca69c800000016109AZtmzRu4aO

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4df01b3127cce9cb454cde8ff00000016109AZtmzRu4aO

I think I'll start again soon on a wall hanging I'm doing for my nephew. It was going to be a gift for when he was born, but he's 8 months old now..... so I'm a little behind! :p

[Jane&Andy]

gorgeous work Janean. :) I need to pull out my cross stitch and make a few things for my neice who's due to be born in August.

[Jenean]

Thanks, Jane! Right back at ya! I love the holiday stuff you've done. I want to do more things like that, especially since DH and I are hosting our first Thanksgiving this year for both our families. I'd love to do cute napkins or something.

I have a ton of baby patterns, especially for bibs like that, if you're ever looking for something new! I'm happy to scan 'em in a share them.

[Jane&Andy]

thanks Janean - I have a scanner too so I can easily share patterns if anyone wants them.

[mmeblue]

Hey guys, I'm not sure if you realized this, but almost all patterns (even freebies) are copyrighted. We don't have the right to scan & share patterns - the legal way to share them is to give them away or sell them, not keeping any copies for yourself. I think it would be much better for CC if we didn't discuss scanning & sharing patterns; I wouldn't want Katy and her DH to have to deal with complaints (or lawsuits!) from designers.

[Jane&Andy]

Send me a private message or email if you want a pattern. :)

[Ericka_Jarett]

Hi ladies,

All the work I have seen so far is gorgeous. I just finished a wedding one for a friend from church. She received it on Sunday at her shower and loves it. Was a cheapy pattern only from Walmart (they sell just the patterns for like $3 and you supply everything else)

I have a bunch of books was going to post on e-bay if any of you are interested in them, please let me know and we can work out a price.

[mrsliby2004]

Okay, I want to play too -- I need to dig up the pictures of the finished products -- I'll be back!!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Here are a few of the things I worked on for my baby over the years. I have made many others since these pieces, but these are the biggest so far. The 2 quilts were stamped and the Noah's Afghan was counted. The quilts are flannel backed with a coordinating fabric and the Afghan is backed with another blank afghan.

http://uglyduck.com/ericka/ebaypics/album01/March_28_2002_2.jpg http://uglyduck.com/ericka/ebaypics/album01/March_28_2002_3.jpg http://uglyduck.com/ericka/ebaypics/album01/March_28_2002_001.jpg

[Jenean]

Amanda, most copyrights protect against commercial resale or use, but if you purchase or otherwise obtain a pattern for personal use, there aren't as many limitations. If we posted the patterns online, that would be a problem, but sharing amongst friends most likely isn't. (I took a class on copyright law in law school.) But you're right, we definitely don't need to advertise our sharing!

Ericka, what beautiful work! I have a baby quilt I started so long ago for a friend's baby, but gave up on for a while. I'll probably pull it out again when DH and I someday get pregnant. It's a counted one. Can you tell me about the Funny Side Up book? I might be interested in that one!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Funny Side-Up : has 13 designs here are the sayings:

In the Beginning - 2 bears (like Adam and Eve) with an apple and the snake (shown on a pillow design)
Sew a Little Love - female bear sitting and quilting it looks like while the baby hide underneath also included is a spools border
unattended children will be sold to the zoo..- kids behind cage bars with an elephant and giraffee
Ain't nobody here, But us CHICKENS- 3 chickens are shown stitched on a wall hanging towel rack, also the towel has a chicken border
Happness is a...Cookie and grandma's - (shown on an oven mitt) bear with the 2 o's in cookir stitched like chocolate chips cookies. Accompanying mug has a jug of milk and cookie stitched on it
ring bell for maid service, if no answer do it yourself-rabbit with a kerchief on her head ringing a big black bell
Husband and cat (dog) missing 25 cents for return of cat (dog) - shows pattern for either the cat or a dog. Also included is a dog bone and paw print border
another day in paradise - female bear at the ironing board

Leaflet is by Leisure Arts and retailed for $5.00 Make an offer if interested though. It's brand new. It's a really cute leaflet, if I had more time and more space in my house would make them all, but not much room left in the house.
Thanks

[rebeccasmommy]

Hijacking this thread to say hi to Ericka! It's Shannon. Glad to see you around! :)

[katmg]

Yay for the cross-stitching thread!

I'm working on a Christmas tree skirt right now. I finally finished DH's stocking and my stocking. Once I finish that I may work on some baby things (although I should probably wait until I'm pg.) :rolleyes:

I'd also like to make MIL an angel cross-stitch. Just have to find the right one. I'll try to post pics of what I've been working on...

[lindybug]

Subscribing!

I haven't done any cross stitching in a while, but here are some I made in the last couple years:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4dd39b3127cce9cecc565ec8100000016108AcNXLhw3YtK

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d731b3127cce9cecc560d27100000016108AcNXLhw3YtK

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4dd39b3127cce9cecc579ec9d00000016108AcNXLhw3YtK

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4dd39b3127cce9cecc5646db000000015108AcNXLhw3YtK

[Jane&Andy]

gorgeous work lindybug! I love that last one. :)

[Brandles]

I just finished the wedding cross-stitch that'll go to DH's friends in Septemer. I even ironed it and matted it...I just need to buy a frame to frame it and it'll be all ready. My next project is another baby cross stitch (of feet, name and birthdate) for a baby due in late September.

[lindybug]

Thanks, Jane! That one was for my DH, LOL! ;)

Thinking of ordering this chart:
http://www.123stitch.com/pictures/01-2267.jpg

[Jane&Andy]

I like that one. :)

[Ki Ki Marcus]

Actually, I'm really stoked. This is my first post on CC. (Moved over from WC... where I never posted a lot. Have a feeling I will be posting more here. Certainly is more diverse in conversations.)

Anywho...

Something I've been wanting to try and really don't know how to do. I bought some baby onesies and wanted to X-Stitch some designs of my own. Has anyone done this on just regular material? Should I do it on Aida cloth and then just whip-stitch it onto the onesie?

Also, does anyone have any suggestions on how to map-out my designs? I wanted baby stuff but nothing too cutesie. Actually. I want them decidedly punk-baby. Byt still hand-stitched. Jeez... is my freak showing a bit much? :D

Thanks muchly,
-Ki Ki

[Ericka_Jarett]

You can stitch right onto onesies, just make sure to get waste canvas and use a hoop. I tried it without a hoop and I was getting frustrated with it. Make sure to wash the onesies, as they have a tendancy to go out of shape a little. Also try to get your stitches to lay as flat as possible on the wrong side, since they will be against the baby's chest.

As for mapping designs, they sell software that you can take any picture and it will calculate the colors and such, not sure where you can buy it off hand though. Also they sell grids that you place over any picture and can turn it into a cross-stitch design.

[mmeblue]

Ki Ki - I have a software program called Pattern Maker; it's made by HobbyWare (http://www.hobbyware.com/). It cost about $50, I think, and came from Michaels. If you don't want to invest money in software, just use some old-fashioned graph paper and go from there. :)

[Jane&Andy]

Ki Ki - I've done lots of onesies. I use waste canvas (when you're done you just pull the canvas out thread by thread - works best if you use tweezers to remove it). I either loosely stitch the edges to the cloth or I tape it down (if its a thinner fabric I don't want to leave holes in it). I've never used a hoop, but thats just a personal preference. I don't use a hoop for anything.

here's some I've done
http://images.snapfish.com/344465%3A%3B23232%7Ffp58%3Dot%3E2328%3D%3C26%3D524 %3D%3C57%3A5a36353732%3E23234%3B3%3C9484%3Aot1lsi
http://images.snapfish.com/344465%3A%3B23232%7Ffp58%3Dot%3E2323%3D5%3A5%3D453 %3D32325%3A5362345nua%3C2gi1lsi
here's a good upclose shot of something I did on sweatshirts for my neices and nephews
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4ce10b3127cce9c157092118a00000016108AZN27Ny3btK
and on a sweatshirt for me
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf39b3127cce9c15709cd0ed00000016108AZN27Ny3btK

[Ki Ki Marcus]

So many responses so quickly! I really appreciate it!

Now... er... What's "waste canvas" and can I get it at Jo Anne's Fabrics or even Wally-World (aka Wall-Mart Hell)? Obviously it has the same properties as Aida cloth... as in, evenly spaced holes for same-sized x's?
(Sorry, I feel so Stupid. I've been looking to do this for I don't know how long and just haven't found ANY kind of help out there in the real world.)

Erika_Jarett I know I'm not "supposed" to knot my threads when x-stitching, just run it under the stiches, but I've always knotted. I was certainly concernded about doing this against baby's skin. Have you found that with muliple washing the thread-ends start coming out from under the stitches and the entire thing starts unraveling?

mmeblue Thanks so much for providing the link to the software! I'm going to download it and give it a try. We have Michaels here so I can run right out and get it if I like the trial-run. Can you post some pictures of items you've made using that program?

Jane&Andy OMG!! Those look absolutly FANTASTIC! Thank you for sharing. I'm rally glad you showed the close-up of Santa. What else have you done with clothing? And, Also, the same questions I asked Erika_Jarett. Looks like you've had a lot of pratice with this. Do you find the threads unravel after many washings or do you knot?


-Ki Ki

[Ki Ki Marcus]

One more question. I'd love to post pictures of projects I've completed. (Or, at least, the projects that are still in this house as most get sent off as presents...)

Does anyone know if I can host pictures from SnapFish? I have an account there already. I could easy snap some pictures and upload them today if I can host the pictures from them.

Thanks again!

-Ki Ki

[mmeblue]

Here are a couple of things I've stitched using Pattern Maker to convert images into patterns (I didn't do any editing of the patterns it made). The biggest drawback is that since the program basically tries to convert the colors in the image into DMC colors, you end up with a lot of "confetti" - individual stitches of each color are spread out to get the same look as in the picture.

The first one is an ornament I made...it's the starship Voyager on the FiveMinute.net logo (yes, DH and I are big Star Trek fans).

http://mmeblue.home.comcast.net/images/5mvoyorn.jpg

I actually made five different ornaments like that one, and they're here (http://mmeblue.home.comcast.net/images/5mvOrnaments.jpg) - the pic is too big to post all of them. Those were done on 22-count aida. They weren't too bad, but just to give you an idea, on that one, with a design that was 2" x 2", I used 44 different colors. :eek:

The other one is made from a photo of the place where DH proposed to me. You can see the photo here (http://mmeblue.home.comcast.net/images/FountainEdit.jpg); I've only done the top left part of it:

http://mmeblue.home.comcast.net/images/fountain50.jpg

In order to get it to look decent, I'm using 28-count linen and stitching one-over-one. I think I'm going to like the finished product, but I know some people really don't like the way charted photos end up. I don't know that I'm going to attempt another design that big (stitch count is 224 x 133) from a photo, but I may still use it to make some designs of my own eventually. :)

[Hedgie]

Everybody's projects are wonderful!

I have a bad habit of working intensely for a week or two, then not touching it for months at a time. I'm currently working on a gargoyle in a garden. I just have to finish the gargloyle and outlining stuff.
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d934b3127cce929be929e57700000035118Abs2TlszYuR

[Jane&Andy]

KiKi - yes, snapfish works here. you can probably find waste canvas at Walmart - you should be able to find it at any craft store. It'll be hanging near the other cross stitch cloth or by the towels/bibs. I often knot my threads - especially when I'm stitching on clothing since it will be washed a lot. I've given cross stitched onesies to several people's babies and not one has complained about it irritating their skin. I know my sisters would have reported back to me if it was a problem. You could probably buy some iron backing to cover it with but I've never bothered with it.

I haven't cross stitched on clothing besides onesies or sweatshirts. I did do a small bear on a turtleneck (on the neck) for my nephew once but I've mostly done onesies.

looks great Hedgie!

[Ki Ki Marcus]

Jane&Andy - Thank you, thank you, thank you! I ran out today, DH in tow, and found the only frigging packet :rolleyes: of waste cloth at Jo Ann Fabrics. Quick trip to Michael's... they had NONE!! By the time I came home I was convinced I'd have to drive to Maryland, or some such place, to buy more! I'll give Wally-World a shot tomorrow.

I, of course, immediatly came home and started working on my first little project! :D I'll probably be up all night enthusiastically working to see one completed project! I feel better about knotting. I'm just not terribly convinced that laying thread under stitches will hold up. Especially when you consider how much laundering a baby's piece can receive. And if it doesn't irritate skin... Knots away!

As soon as I finish this little bad-boy I'll take pics of it and all other projects and post. I'm truely excited to finally have a group of gals to share projects and ideas with.

(Side note, Jo Ann's here in Richmond, VA is clearing out their cross-stitch stuff. I asked a clerk about it and she said it isn't "in" anymore. Everyone is knitting now. I REALLY felt like telling her she needed to check out constant chatter and snap back to reality!! ;) ) On the flip side, I was surprised at the selection at Michael's.

-Ki Ki

[Jane&Andy]

I just had this one framed
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d936b3127cce9289fd4e15de00000016108AZN27Ny3btK
Its a xmas present for my MIL.

[katmg]

Kiki - I've noticed the selection of patterns at my Michael's has really gone down. I used to find great patterns there and now I can't find anything that's my style. I've resorted to buying off the internet.

[Jane&Andy]

its been a long time since I've found any patterns at Micheal's that I really liked. I have better luck in small specialty shops or online.

I'm working on this one now:
http://stitchnframe.home.att.net/catol.jpg

I've already done this one by the same designer
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf35b3127cce9c1687aed6a900000025118AZN27Ny3btK

[Jane&Andy]

oh, Kiki - here's another tip for you to secure your thread without knotting - instead of using two separate pieces of floss cut one long piece - fold it in half and thread the cut ends through the needle. This leaves you with a loop at the end. Bring the needle up through the first hole and then down through the second without pulling the end through - on the back of your piece you will have a loop of thread - run the needle through the loop and pull tight. That locks it in place with no tail. The knots don't really cause any problems for me but this method is great for keeping the back of the piece neat - which is important when you are working on a light cloth and don't want the tails to show through.

[katmg]

Not sure if this is true everywhere, but I was in Hobby Lobby yesterday and they were clearancing *most* of their cross-stitching patterns, and sets.

They had some lovely Lavender & Lace patterns on sale. I picked up this one:

http://www.tiag.com/images/designs/LL-07.jpg

and I am trying to decide if I should go back and get these two. (one is a set and one is just the pattern)

http://www.tiag.com/images/designs/LL-36small.jpg

http://www.tiag.com/images/designs/LL-42.jpg

They also had a ton of other brands on clearance. I was really surprised. It seemed like they were clearing out the stuff. :(

[Ericka_Jarett]

It stinks that stores are clearancing all the cross-stitch stuff. Good for us for prices, but bad cause the selection that is out there now stinks something awful. I couldn't even find a cute wedding cross-stitch to do, I got a cheap $2 pattern at Walmart and bought all the supplies to do one that looked even somewhat nice. I have tons of books that I was looking at selling, since I will never do the projects in them. They are cute books, compared to what they carry now.

[Jane&Andy]

I haven't noticed any clearance sales in my area! I should check out some of my local craft stores this weekend.

[Jane&Andy]

just finished this one:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d600b3127cce93c7fa9709ea00000025118AZN27Ny3btK

[Jenean]

I can't believe I completely forgot about this thread! :eek: Well, I'm glad I found it again, especially since I'm FINALLY starting to cross stitch again after an eternity away from it. This weekend I got out a cute baby bib pattern to start tonight for a friend's baby shower next month. I'm doing two for her - one cute one that says "Little Angel" and another from my "Babies With Attitude" pattern booklet. I haven't decided between the "It's All About Me" bib or the "Are you sure these are my relatives?" one.

Jane, that last project came out so cute!

What else is everyone working on right now?

[Ericka_Jarett]

I haven't started them yet, but I will be working on squares for a quilt for hubby's grandmother's 90th b-day. Will have our names and wedding date on 1, the other will be for Rebekah with her b-day and an angel bear, the other will be for my stepson with some animal on it and his b-day if I need to make his

[jenji]

I don't cross-stitch, but I have a friend who does. When she and her husband were on vacation for their anniversary last year someone broke into their vehicle and stole all their things, including a cross stitch she'd been working on for a LONG time.
it was of this stamp http://www.rxtrek.net/STAMP.GIF because both she and her DH are pharmacists. she'd been working on it since before they graduated from pharmacy school and now she can't find another pattern anywhere.
I want to get her another pattern for Christmas but I don't even know where to begin looking. I've googled it and haven't found anything except other people looking for the same pattern

[amy_awesome]

Is this the one you're looking for? It looks very similar, but the colors appear a bit different on my monitor, so I can't be sure...

I must say, it's an odd kind of thief that steals cross-stitch supplies...I hope this is the pattern you're looking for. I know that I would hate to lose something that I had been working so hard on because some jerk broke into my car and just took everything in sight!

http://www.selmasyarns.com/page/SELMA/PROD/HD-3743

-A

[LadyD088]

I can't believe I haven't found this thread sooner. I was on the "other" sites thraed as well. I have stopped Cross Stitching for awhile now but will be starting again tonight. I have 2 projects I am in the middle of. I hope to post soon - both are gifts for my friend.

Glad to see everyone again, and the new faces as well. The projects are all beautiful.

I would like to do something grand for my cousin's baby boy due in November. A quilt or wall hanging would be great. Anyone have a GREAT site(s) for researching those? I have looked at Michaels (because I am in a new city and don't know my way around) and just can't find what I am looking for.

I have 2 friends that just had babies and would like to do a small Birth Info stitch for them...any thoughts on those? Need one for each sex.

Thanks in advance!!

Deb

[jenji]

AmyAwesome - thank you SOOO much!
she was so upset that someone would actually steal her cross-stitching.

[LadyD088]

I hope there is a LOT of cross stitching going on since we haven't posted for awhile now!!! LOL

Me? Not too much. I do have it out in the open now and work on it every now and then. Maybe get some done on the road this weekend since we are driving down to LA...so we'll see.

Enjoy your weekend.

Deb

[mrsdrummer]

Yippee, glad i re-found this thread. I'm broke for christmas this year so I though i'd whip out some cross stitch for some folks. I'm diong Last names and framing them. Simple block style lettering in a color that matches their decor. Working on one for my SIL now. The picture ones are too time consuming for me, I have 0 attention span and all those different colors would have me on Prozac for sure. y'alls sure do look good though. Nice work.

[mrsdrummer]

Where do you get the stockings to CS? I want to do a couple for DH and I. Just something simple.

[lady1297]

I found mine in books/magazines. Most of those are pretty simple. I made snowflake ones for a wedding present a few years ago that turned out great. They were on red and had just white and slightly blue snowflakes with the bride and grooms names on them. So simple and quick to make.

[katmg]

I ordered mine from a website - it came with the threads, fabric and pattern. Although - it was one of those "picture" ones and it took me 3 months to get 1 done. :rolleyes:

[twainny]

Hello!! First time poster in this thread. I have a question. I am (finally) almost done with a stocking I am making for DH. I have a question as to what the date should be. I will stitch in my initials and the date...now, there is the problem, I have been working on this freaking stocking for 4 years!!! Should I date it

1) XYZ 2001
2)XYZ 2005
3) XYZ 01-05

I know what I think I should put, but am wondering what you guys think.

Also, I am looking for another stocking for DS (hopefully it will be done before he goes to college!) Is e-bay the best place to buy kits? I guess you have to buy them in July at Michael's to get any.

TIA!

[LadyD088]

Hello!! First time poster in this thread. I have a question. I am (finally) almost done with a stocking I am making for DH. I have a question as to what the date should be. I will stitch in my initials and the date...now, there is the problem, I have been working on this freaking stocking for 4 years!!! Should I date it

1) XYZ 2001
2)XYZ 2005
3) XYZ 01-05

I know what I think I should put, but am wondering what you guys think.

TIA!

Twainny - In my opinion, I would put it when I gave it to the person. So if you give it for xmas...I would say XYZ 2005.

As for kits, I have purchased a few through ebay and have had no problem. Yeah, Michael's seems to be a bit of a pain!!! Sorry, I am not much help there. Have you tried searching Google for Cross Stitch Xmas Stockings? There might be a few discount places. Good luck.

Deb

[Jane&Andy]

I always date things for the year they were completed, not started.

I do it: JM '05

[katmg]

I've never dated anything but for my most recent stockings I really should!

I found my stockings and tree skirt kits on-line. I just did a search for x-stitch patterns and ordered them through one of the places that I found. So much more selection than at any of my craft stores.

[melandtim]

Anyone out there cross stitch?

This was my first project that I gave my niece for Christmas.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d630b3127cce9308c84ff0c900000015108AZsmLZwzbtZ

My current project is this Christmas stocking. I am almost 3/4 done with it (not counting back stitch)

http://www.123stitch.com/pictures/K8681.jpg

Mel

[lady1297]

OH!! I do!! I don't have any pics, but I've been stitching since is was 6! :) Glad to find this thread!

[melandtim]

I noticed there was no thread so I figured great time to start one. Welcome and I can't wait to see some pics!!

[Jane&Andy]

there is an old thread already started, its just buried deep in here. I'll dig it up for you.

[Jane&Andy]

bump :)

[Jane&Andy]

Mel - I merged your thread with this one.

The horses turned out beautiful. :)

[Jane&Andy]

here's a hooded towel I made:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf27b3127cce954343ef589200000016108AZN27Ny3btK
a onesie:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf06b3127cce95d575d891a100000026108AZN27Ny3btK

[lady1297]

Oh pretty, Jane!

[Jane&Andy]

thanks! :)

[melandtim]

Thanks Jane!!

I absolutely love the hooded towel you made!! Joey is going to be a well dressed baby :)

[Jane&Andy]

thanks. :)

I want to cross stitch on some more onesies for him but now I'm trying to get some crocheting done. So many crafts - so little time. :rolleyes:

[melandtim]

That's why I am starting before getting PG!

[Jane&Andy]

my neices and nephews kept me too busy to get a headstart. darn kids! :p

[katmg]

Melandtim - I did that same stocking for my DH! I was able to finish it up in time for Christmas and it came out gorgeous! I would recommend lining the cross-stitching before you sew the stocking together so that you don't snag the cross-stitch when you put something in it. I just used a piece of white muslin.

Jane - That hooded towel is TOO cute!

My next project are 4 pictures of ducks that my DH wants. He bought them for me for Christmas and would like to hang them in our home office.

[melandtim]

What a great suggestion! I hadn't thought of that! Thanks so much. So far it really looks gorgeous and I am very pleased but it is so tedious. I bought a day scene with a horse drawn sleigh for me :)

[katmg]

mel - I think there may be a picture I posted of the stocking (pre-sewing together) earlier in the thread...Oh and the stocking I made for myself suggested lining so I didn't think of it on my own! :D

[melandtim]

katmg - I didn't see it. If you find a picture of it I would love to see it!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Hi ladies,

Been a while since I have been in here. I haven't had much time to work on any projects. I do have several started though, that I really have to pick up again and finish. Also have to find a project for my Pastor's daughter's upcoming wedding.

[lisainpink]

I've got a quick question. I just completed a fairly large cross stitch of my sorority's crest. I'm going to make a t-shirt quilt with all my college t-shirts and wanted this cross stitch to be the center. Should I back it with something? If so, what? When I got to put the fabric on the edges- do I need to glue the cross stitch fabric so it doesn't unravel? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[Jane&Andy]

lisainpink - I don't line the back with anything when I cross stitch on clothing but you could always look into some iron on backing.

When I'm using 2 strands I just cut one long strand, fold it in half, thread the needle at the cut end and then after I make the first stitch I pull the needle through the loop in the back to lock it in place. If I'm backstitching with one thread I just knot it in place. I've never had any trouble with stitches coming loose.

[emschwar]

Does anyone know if waste canvas comes in anything higher than 14 count? And where I could get some?

[Jane&Andy]

nope, never seen it in anything but 14 count.

[amy_awesome]

I've seen waste canvas in 10 or 11, which I suppose you could rig into 20 or 22, if you didn't skip over two threads. I think I've also seen it in 16, but only rarely. I've only ever gotten it at regular craft/fabric stores (like Michael's or Joann's), but you could try a specialty shop, I suppose.

[al'sgirl]

I have something to finally share in here. I've been x-stitching for years, but rarely take pictures of the projects before I give them away.

This one I'm keeping for myself. It was finished about 8 years ago, and I just got around to faming it.

http://images.snapfish.com/346394%3A65%7Ffp335%3Enu%3D3267%3E76%3A%3E854%3EWS NRCG%3D3233546332%3C%3B7nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/346394%3A65%7Ffp335%3Enu%3D3267%3E76%3A%3E854%3EWS NRCG%3D3233546332%3C%3B8nu0mrj

[melandtim]

That is gorgeous Al's girl!

[al'sgirl]

Thanks melandtim ... I had a great time making it. :)

[Jane&Andy]

looks great al'sgirl! :)

[Jane&Andy]

hooded towel for my son
http://static.flickr.com/44/110956359_17dab0faa9.jpg?v=0

[al'sgirl]

Thanks Jane! :D

cute bear you made too!

[melandtim]

Jane - that's adorable!!

[Jane&Andy]

wedding cross stitch for my SIL
http://static.flickr.com/40/111954899_28f4cfc55f.jpg?v=0

thanks ladies. :) bedrest is good for my productivity. :p

[melandtim]

Wow you are getting tons done!! I got lots done on mine while I was recuperating but its still taking me forever. I am in the home stretch now on the Christmas stocking though and hope to have everything except the back stitch done this week!

[Jane&Andy]

that last one is quick and easy b/c it only uses one color. But its one my favorite wedding patterns. :)

[twainny]

melandtim- what christmas stocking are you doing? I am trying to work on the one for my son, but every time I pull it out my DH says "talk to you tomorrow..." he HATES that I cross stitch! But that is because his is the only stocking that is DONE! (oh, forget it, i just went back and saw the pattern you are doing)
I would post pics of mine, but 1)they aren't done and 2)i don't know how to post pics! hahaha

Jane- I see you had the baby!!! I thought you were due in April... your son's b-day is just two days before mine (well, and a year later!) CONGRATS!

[Jane&Andy]

thanks. twainny. :) I was due in early April - I ended up being induced at 37.5 weeks for high blood pressure.

I have a new neice/nephew on the way so its time for me to pull out my crafts and get started on some baby projects while my baby naps. :)

[melandtim]

twainny I am currently doing this one for me

http://www.salt-and-pepper.com/Dimensions/dm8712.JPG


I just finished this one for my DH

http://www.salt-and-pepper.com/Dimensions/dm8681.JPG

[Janey]

Melandtim, I got the one you are doing for yourself for my husband. :) I think it's beautiful. It's also my first project... hope I can do it without too much trouble.

[melandtim]

DH wanted that one but I claimed it first!! There are some complicated parts of it but I think its pretty straight forward.

[twainny]

this is the one I am making for my son.

http://www.123stitch.com/pictures/K8645.jpg


I can't find the ones I made for myself and my DH. I guess they are too old.

[emschwar]

Anyone have any good sites for looking for cross stitch kits? I'm thinking of cross stitching some farm stuff to go on pillows in my son's eventual big boy room.

[keska]

I like Dark Lilac (http://www.darklilac.com/category/counted-cross-stitch/1008).

[melandtim]

123stitch.com is a good one

[Jenean]

All Stitched Up (http://www.allstitchedup.com/) is good. I also look at Dimensions (http://www.dimensions-crafts.com/) and Herrschner's (http://www.herrschners.com/dept_3973.aspx?id=3973) and
The Stitchery (http://www.thestitchery.com/) for ideas. I often then just go and buy those kits at my local Michaels or AC Moore (love those coupons!).

[melandtim]

Great sites! I noticed the dark lilac site allows you to upload photos to make charts free of charge. Has anyone done anything like that?

[emschwar]

Thanks for the sites! Now I just have to manage to narrow it down :)

Another question - if I stitch some things for pillows for Noah's bed, is there a way to protect them? Scotch guard or something like that? Protection from spills would be #1, but protecting the stitches from damage would be nice too.

[beakersmom]

Oh man, I just bought a ton of stuff from allstitchedup and I still have to finish the baby blanket I'm working on. It's a good thing the hubby works at night-plenty of time to work on them. You ladies have some great completed projects. I can't wait to see more.

[Janey]

Good morning, Cross Stitchers! I'm going to be starting on my very fisrt ever cross-stitch project this week. I figure -- it is almost June... so that will give me a good six months to get this project done by Christmas. It is the Skater's Village Tree Skirt (http://dimensions-crafts.com/showproduct.asp?reqtype=1&colID=28&onPage=1&onItem=5&prodID=08641) by Dimensions... and it looks like this:

http://www.darklilac.com/images/products/needle/large/D8641.jpg

Anybody have any tips or tricks, or advice for a complete newbie?

[melandtim]

Mrs Hill - I love that tree skirt! That's one of the one's I have my eye on for us. Need to get those stockings done first though :D Ambitious for your first try but I am sure you are up to the challenge :)

My first project I did not separate the colors. Big mistake. Dimensions ususally provides you with color sorters - use them and label them!

I tend to get distracted on where I am going so what I have been doing with this project is I picked the middle and then mapped out where I was going. I used a sticky note and put the next 5 or 6 symbols I would be using as well as listing the colors. That way I don't have to figure out each time I am done with a color where i am going next. I also save time by not having to go back to the chart to look it up.

Good luck! I can't wait to see your progress :)

[amy_awesome]

My one piece of advice, especially on a project of that size, is not to start with the white thread. Seriously. My last big project, I started with white, and hours and hours, days and days later, it sure looked like I had spent a whole lot of time doing nothing :)

Have fun!

[Jane&Andy]

wow! thats quite a project!

Like Mel said - sort the floss first - if it didn't come with a sorter you can use notecards or cardstock and punch holes around the edges.

If you can get it done in six months I will be VERY impressed. I think something like that would take me a few years!

[Ericka_Jarett]

MrsHill - wow some project you chose for your first. GL with finishing it in 6 months. Don't get upset with yourself if you don't get it done by than though. Looks like it has a lot of detail and that also means a lot of backstitching, which also takes a lot of time.

I have a tree skirt with stockings to match, not sure I am going to do them though, may just sell the kits, since I will have a baby to be taking care of, as well as smaller projects to finish that I have started but never finished. Here is my newest project that I just got for $5.00 : http://www.janlynn.com/ahpimages/ACF213.jpg

[Janey]

Thanks, Everyone. I hope you all don't mind if i come in here with a bunch of dumb-newbie questions every so often. :)

[Brandles]

I'm back to working on a wedding cross-stitch I began a few weeks ago. I really worked on it while watching TV on Memorial Day. I've done several other different wedding cross-stitches, but I like this one the best. I've done 4 or 5 of them in this style. The wedding isn't until August and the invites haven't gone out yet, but I'm getting a head start. I hope to be done by the end of June, if not earlier.

[melandtim]

Ericka that is is so beautiful!

Mrs Hill - we never mind questions, I still ask them myself!!

[twainny]

Has anyone done a stamped counted cross stitch? I bought a Thomas Kinkaid to do for my MIL, but I didn't realize until now that it is stamped. Anything I need to be concerned about?

[Jenean]

Mrs Hill, what a beautiful project! Good luck with it. A hint from me = when I work on large projects like that, I like to take the pattern and photocopy it by sections, enlarging it so it's really easy to see. As I finish a row or section, I highlight it so I know I've already completed that. It makes it a lot easier to see what I have and haven't done. Also, if you're going to be working with a bunch of different colors at a time, it helps to have multiple needles already threaded with each color. There are items you can buy to help you keep track of what needle has what color (like this (http://www.allstitchedup.com/detail.php?idp=0604-03100003)). Have fun! :)

[Janey]

Jenean - How cool is that thing?? That looks awesome! :D And thank you for all of the advice. I still haven't started :o but I plan to very soon. Photocopying the instructions is a really good idea.

[BusyBee]

MrsHill - I hate to be a downer, but that is a seriously ambitious project, even for someone who does cross stitch a lot.

I would recommend that you try something small first, just to get the hang of it - so you're not pulling stitches out when you realize you didn't like how it turned out. Putting it off for a week won't delay your progress. Also, that sense of accomplishment to have something finished will help a lot to keep you going.
You can even stitch a part of that design on another piece of fabric - like the boy with the snowman - and make an ornament out of it.

I wonder how big is the design - how many stitches length and width?
...Hmm, 11 count, 45 inches - It's probably about 450 x 200 stitches. I usually keep my big projects to under 150 x 200 (I stitch on the train) so maybe it's not as huge as it seems. Probably a lot of outlining, though.
Is some of it printed, like the sky and shadows?

Good luck - it will be a wonderful piece to have when you're done!

[twiceasnice]

I've recently started on the Dolly Mama's series at michael's. This is the one I'm working on now:

http://www.michaels.com/online/images/product/large/nw0211.jpg

I think I'm going to do a handful of them and hang them in either my laundry room or a bathroom.

Good luck on the tree skirt, MrsHill. It will look great when you finish. I also like the idea of taking some of the pictures out of it and making ornaments.

[Janey]

MrsHill - I hate to be a downer, but that is a seriously ambitious project, even for someone who does cross stitch a lot.
You're not being a downer!! I'm glad for the input/advice. Taking a piece of the design for an ornament is a good idea.

I'm starting to think maybe I should do something small first to get my feet wet, and then start on the skirt & stocking after that. Here's my fear: I get about 1/3 (or even 1/5) done, and figure out I've done it all wrong, and have to rip everything out. That fear is partially what is keeping me from starting this project. And now it looks like it may be put off a bit further since Phase II of our remodel is ramping up, and I have mucho painting to do.

Eventually, though, I want to have stockings for each of us, and a tree skirt. That's the "Big Picture" goal. :)

[twiceasnice]

I'm starting to think maybe I should do something small first to get my feet wet, and then start on the skirt & stocking after that. Here's my fear: I get about 1/3 (or even 1/5) done, and figure out I've done it all wrong, and have to rip everything out. That fear is partially what is keeping me from starting this project.

That happened to me on my first ambitious project. I was making a baby pillow for a friend. Was about 75% done when I realized I hadn't started on the center of my fabric and was not going to have room for the border, which I had already started on the other side. I was so ticked. Nights of hard work down the drain.

I had a roommate in college who only did huge projects and she could spit one out in 2 months. She worked at Michael's and was always bringing home crossstitches to do.

[Ericka_Jarett]

Has anyone done a stamped counted cross stitch? I bought a Thomas Kinkaid to do for my MIL, but I didn't realize until now that it is stamped. Anything I need to be concerned about?

Is it one that just needs the detail done on it? Is it real aida cloth or just like a cotton material (personally I hate the cotton material like broadcloth for x-stitching) I have 1 or 2 Thomas Kincaid's that I haven't started but mine are both counted cross stitch.

Here is a pic of my Noah's Ark that I started last Tuesday (worked on it for 2 days straight while on bedrest) It's 28 count fabric and the main design has to be stitched over 2 threads, so it's time consuming.
http://images1.snapfish.com/3473436%3C8%7Ffp344%3Enu%3D3278%3E943%3E%3A57%3EWS NRCG%3D32338376594%3B%3Cnu0mrjhttp://www.janlynn.com/ahpimages/ACF213.jpg

[BusyBee]

twainnyHas anyone done a stamped counted cross stitch? I bought a Thomas Kinkaid to do for my MIL, but I didn't realize until now that it is stamped. Anything I need to be concerned about?

I think it's a plain cotton material that has blue x's stamped all over it that you're supposed to stitch over.
I tried it once, and did not enoy it as much as the aida. My stitches just were not as even, and you have to use a sharp instead of a cross stitch needle to get through the fabric.

I would recommend using a hoop for the stamped x-stitch, though - it will make it much easier. (I don't like using a hoop with aida.)

Ericka_Jarett, sorry to hear you're on bedrest, but you're making great progress! Your ark looks terrific. Is that a kit or just a pattern? I love the little animal blocks all around.

[Ericka_Jarett]

We bought it as a counted cross-stitch kit, it was only $5 Now that I am on full time bedrest I should have it done before the baby comes and hopefully will get the other baby projects I have started finished.

[lonestardawn]

I am so excited that found this thread and some other people who like to cross stitch. I have been stitching ever since I got bored the summer after 5th grade - and I still have that first project! I have done a couple of challenging projects that I will have to photograph and post here. This past Christmas I purchased a couple of projects at classiccrossstitch.com She has some beautiful and complicated projects. I selected this one to work on first. I've done about a 2x2 inch square. When it gets far enough along to tell what I am doing I'll post a picture of how it is coming out.

http://images1.snapfish.com/34763983%3A%7Ffp33%3B%3Enu%3D3238%3E288%3E5%3B5%3E WSNRCG%3D323395%3A747%3A8%3Anu0mrj

[melandtim]

lonestardawn - what a gorgeous cross stitch!! Iw ill have to check out that site!

I havent had much time lately to work on my stcoking but I am thrilled with how it looks so far. Need to get cracking if I want it done for Xmas :p

[endymion411]

I am so excited that found this thread and some other people who like to cross stitch. I have been stitching ever since I got bored the summer after 5th grade - and I still have that first project! I have done a couple of challenging projects that I will have to photograph and post here. This past Christmas I purchased a couple of projects at classiccrossstitch.com She has some beautiful and complicated projects. I selected this one to work on first. I've done about a 2x2 inch square. When it gets far enough along to tell what I am doing I'll post a picture of how it is coming out.

wow! the projects on this site are beautiful! how does it work once you buy the pattern to download? is there a list of what colours to buy, etc? how do you print the pattern out? (sorry for all the ?s!) :)

i am working on a cross-stitch of a waterlily that i bought off of ebay. it is taking FOREVER as i usually manage to find only about a half hour to an hour every few weeks to work on it. :rolleyes: once it actually looks like something, i'll post pics.

[lonestardawn]

Hi endymion411,

Once I paid for the patterns, she emailed me a link to the the pdf files containing the patterns. I just downloaded the files to my computer by clicking on them and then printed the pattern on my printer. Just like a pattern you buy in the store it has a page with all the symbols and the DMC colors they correspond to. Or another option is to pay a little more and she will print the pattern out and mail them to you.

I bought 3 patterns at once since it is a bit cheaper to buy more than one at once. That should keep me busy for years to come!

[endymion411]

thanks for the info, lonestardawn!

no kidding about the years to come---those patterns seem beautifully complicated! :)

[21daisygurl]

Just wondering if anyone else out there is cross-stiching obsessed. I have done tonnes of projects...but none for myself. SO I am currently working on a fairy for myself. I am about 1/2 done it. I love it
http://www.abcstitch.com/optioncart/image.php?image=http://www.abcstitch.com/images/fairydreams.gif&catalog=H96-937&item=Fairy%20Dreams&price=12.79&itemtype=chart

I have done these for family members:
http://www.abcstitch.com/optioncart/image.php?image=http://www.abcstitch.com/images/angeloffreedom.jpg&catalog=H3812&item=Angel%20of%20Freedom&price=10.59&itemtype=chart

http://www.abcstitch.com/optioncart/image.php?image=http://www.abcstitch.com/images/wedding.jpg&catalog=H4529&item=Wedding,%20The&price=10.79&itemtype=chart

http://www.tiag.com/designs/BR-04.html

[Ericka_Jarett]

Here is a whole thread on cross-stitching. Glad to see another stitcher on the boards

http://www.constantchatter.com/forum/showthread.php?t=145

[jennylou]

Threads merged. :)

[Ericka_Jarett]

Since Christmas is just around the corner, here is my new project for working on in November

Advent Calendar (http://www.dimensions-crafts.com/showproduct.asp?reqtype=0&subid=14&craftid=11&sizeid=1&perpage=64&submit=Search&onPage=1&onItem=30&prodID=08762)

[Foley42]

I cross stitched some back in middle school and really liked it. I'd like to get back into it once I finish school. DH is in the Army and I'd like to make something for him. Any links or suggestions for where I could find something for him?

Jane&Andy: the bear towel hoody is very cute! Did it take very long to finish?

[melandtim]

That's beautiful Ericka!

Foley - page 11 of the thread has a bunch of websites listed with great designs.

[Jane&Andy]

Foley24 - I think I did the bear towel in one day, but that was when I was on bedrest at the end of my pregnancy so I had nothing else to do.

[melandtim]

I have finally finished my 2 Xmas stockings. here is mine. I don't have a sewing machine so I had to hand stitch and then after the holidays are over I will take it to my stepmothers and sew it properly. Its a scanned pic so the whole things didn't fit. I will take pics of both hanging up and post them.

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j124/mharris44/stocking.jpg?t=1166715629

[Ericka_Jarett]

mel - that is very pretty.

My project is still a work in progress for another year. Just didn't have the time in November to get it done. Have a lot of the nativity done on it, and half the numbers, but still a ways to go plus all the little covers for the numbers. Will take it with me this week on vacation.

[melandtim]

Ericka - thanks! Did you ever finish the Noah's Ark for Easton?

[Janey]

Mel - that is awesome! That is the very same stocking I bought for B, and have not yet started it. I'm glad it turned out so well for you - it makes me look forward to the project even more.

I finally started working on our tree skirt; I haven't gotten very far yet but I'm plugging along when I can. I have a skater, a sledder, and half a pond done so far. :)

[melandtim]

Janey - thanks, that took me about 7 months to do with a constant 2 weeks of doing it while recovering from surgery :) Well worth it though!!

My next project is a tree skirt. I go tthe woodland santa one!

[Ericka_Jarett]

:::Hangs Head::::

Unfortunately I haven't picked it up for a while. Have to find it actually, with the move and Easton's birth it sort of got lost in the shuffle of things.

[melandtim]

wow you certainly have had your hands full with a new baby and moving :)

[Jane&Andy]

looks great Mel!!!

[melandtim]

Thanks!

[twainny]

Question: does everyone do as the instructions say and cut all their thread in half? Just wondering. I never have done this. Just wondering what others do. I usually take that long piece and double it, so it is easier to start. If I know I need a lot of thread for a certain area, I will use two long pieces.

I just started my 4th stocking. For our little one who is due to join us in July. I hope to have it done this year for the baby!! (lol, it will take me forever to do it!) I am really trying not to mess this one up (granted no one can tell where all the mistakes are on the others, but I am jsut trying hard!) Luckily, I think this pattern is 75% half sticthes, so they should go fast!! (I was thinking ahead when I bought the pattern! LOL)

Mel- the stocking is awesome!

[melandtim]

Thanks Twainny!!

I never cut mine in half, takes too long especially when you have large sections of one color to do!

Half stitches do make it easier!!!

[Jane&Andy]

twainny - I always double my thread over - keeps the thread more secure and the back neater.

[daisygrl]

I LOVE to cross stitch...although the backs of all my work could be tidier. My mother in law used to have such a clean looking back to all her projects...always cutting the thread perfectly. I don't think I have enough patience.

I'm learning to sew and crochet but have been cross stitching all my life. I'm sooo bad about getting more and more projects and never finishing the ones I have. The one I'm working on now is called "Flowers on a doorknob". For this project I DO cut my threads in half but usually I don't. I'll have to get pictures up when I'm finished!

[melandtim]

My latest project is done!

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j124/mharris44/piglet1.jpg?t=1182359189

This will hopefully be for our nursery at some point. I have pooh, tigger and eeyore still to do!

[Ericka_Jarett]

mel - piglet looks great, good job.

I picked up my advent calendar the other day, did some of the work on it. Mad at myself because I missed a line somewhere so I had to improvise how the shepherd looks since it's off a color due to a line missed.

I have a baby quilt my mom brought to me at Christmastime that I started at her house, haven't touched that at all though. Still looking for the Noah's Ark cross-stitch one I started.

Hoping that my mom's boarder finds the totes of baby items I made years ago. I have a Noah's Ark quilt, Precious Moments quilt and Noah's Ark afghan I made that have been missing since my dad put them at his place yrs ago.

[melandtim]

thanks Ericka! You'll have less time when the twins are born!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Oh I know it. I am trying to work on the calendar one as much as I can until they come in October. I really need to finish the projects I have started. About 3 yrs ago I went and got all the half finished or almost finished projects out and spent a few weeks finishing them all. I have our wedding one finished and hung in the living room. I got the rose cross-stitch that I had framed home from my mom's place, along with my Precious Moments piece I did.

[katmg]

I need to cross-stitch a stocking for DD. I have one for myself and my husband cross-stitched. I better start on it soon if want to have a shot at finishing it by Christmas time!! I still need to do the finishing for the tree skirt that I made. We didn't have tree up last year with my being 9 months pregnant so we are DEFINITELY having one this year and I'd like to have all of the things I've made ready to go.

[melandtim]

katmg - I was so happy to get my stockings done :p They took forever. My tree skirt is taking forever as well, just not enough time to work on it! Post a pic of yours when you are done!

Ericka - I am bad about starting things too and then I get bored and move to something else :)

[Pineknot]

Melandtim,

Which tree skirt are you doing? I've been looking at some, but since I'm very new at cross stitch, I'm afraid it's too big a job at this point.

Love that pooh!

[melandtim]

Pineknot - I am doing the woodland santa one, don't think its still available. it is a big job but after those stockings I did its a little easier its just so much fabric to work with at once.

[twainny]

I am working on a Christmas stocking for DS2, due in 3 weeks. I started it back in Jan. or Feb but only worked on it for a few weeks. I quickly get burned out. Plus, I think I made a big mistake and I didn't want to deal with ripping it all out! Now I am almost done!! YIPPIE. I am down to the toe part (well, plus backstitching) and the name (since we haven't picked one out yet). Hopefully I will have it done in the next 6 weeks, so that when my mom comes she can put it together!

As much as I love cross stiching and I love the end product, it really gets to be a drag when you are in the middle of a project and you just want it done! I am at the point that I don't want to sit in the chair, it is just too uncomfortable. But I do try to get 3-5 thread lengths done every night (though it doesn't always happen).

I will try to post pictures of all 4 stockings when I am done!

Mel- your piglet is too cute!!

[melandtim]

twainny - I was the same way with those stockings. I get bored by it. So I try to have a couple going at once so I can switch back and forth between them!

Can't wait to see them all!

[Jane&Andy]

here's a shirt I stitched on for my neice
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2070/2034501793_47185900f0.jpg?v=0
and a sweatshirt
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2370/2034504321_a41d8c5de3.jpg?v=1195152620

I MUCH prefer working on a thicker fabric like the sweatshirt.

[melandtim]

Fantastic Jane!

I am almost done with my Tigger cross stitch! Hope to have pics soon!

[HeatherFL]

Hi there...I used to cross stitch a whole lot in elementary school through early high school and made some pretty nice creations if I do say so myself... ;) Right now I have a pretty demanding schedule. So on to my point...

My mom has been in love with this pattern called "Playmates" by Karen Wood and Bonnie Marr (from their Best Friends collection) for as long as I can remember. I was about half way through it as a kid. We moved and it was lost. She has talked about wanting to find that pattern for years! Well, I just moved and dug through BOXES and boxes of stuff and I found it!!!! Right now, I honestly don't have the time to sit and do it (and I think I'd be pretty slow at it too UGH.) I'd love to find someone willing to do it so I can have it in time to give it to her for Christmas. I can email (I think if I can get it scanned) or snail mail the pattern & I'm willing to pay someone. Or if anyone knows of someone in the Tampa area, I'd love to be in touch with them. (The size for the bulletin board says 10"x12" with 7"x9" frame. I'll frame it myself. Just looking for someone to do the cross-stitching part.) :)

Thanks so much, everyone!

~H.

[melandtim]

Hi Heather welcome to the group! I would love to help you out but there is no way I could something done that quickly. I'm a bit slow :p

[HeatherFL]

Thanks, Ericka! I'll email you a picture of it. I can't find one online, so I have to take a picture of it. I'll recheck the measurements too.

~H.

[HeatherFL]

Ericka, I emailed you. :) For those who might be interested, this is what the pattern looks like. If you want a copy, I'd be happy to snail mail it. :)

~H.

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/HeatherJWFL76/MISC/IMGP7724.jpg

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/HeatherJWFL76/MISC/IMGP7723.jpg

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/HeatherJWFL76/MISC/IMGP7729.jpg

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/HeatherJWFL76/MISC/IMGP7727.jpg

[twainny]

HeatherFL - did your cross stitch get done in time to give to your mom for Christmas? Just wondering.

I see that I wrote back in June about being almost done with my last stocking. Alas, life with 2 LOs proved harder than I thought it would be, and I never touched the stocking :( But that is okay, DS1 didn't have a stocking for his first Christmas either!

Merry Christmas everyone!

[melandtim]

2 recently finished cross stitches

Tigger

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j124/mharris44/Picture005.jpg?t=1202752762

Eeyore

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j124/mharris44/Picture004.jpg?t=1202752794

now if I could just have a baby than I could use them!! Onto the pooh watercolor!

[Jane&Andy]

looks great Mel!

[melandtim]

finally got my last pooh cross stitch done!!

Now I really need to get booking on the pooh afghan. My stepmother has kindly agreed to do the second one since we are having twins. No way I could get both done!

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j124/mharris44/pooh.jpg?t=1208970580

[Ericka_Jarett]

They look great Mel. Love the Eeyore one. Now you can finally decorate the babies room with them. I have to do some serious digging in boxes to find the quilts I made, kids can use them next winter if I can find them.

[Jane&Andy]

adorable Mel!

[melandtim]

Thanks Jane and Ericka!! I am going to start painting this weekend!

[BusyBee]

Hi, need some cross stitching advice here! I've done lots of stiching on aida cloth, mostly 14 and 16 count, without using a hoop. My stitches/tension turned out even and nice easily for me.

I have a baby pattern that I'd love to do for my daughters (very late, I know) - now that I'm working, I have some "free" commuting time. I never started it because I just couldn't decide on a color fabric to use. The darker colors show through the stiches too much.

My question is about using linen or lugana, 28 count over 2 threads. How much tougher is it than aida? Do I really need a hoop? I discovered some dyed silvery fabric that looks great - but of course, it has to be comforable enough for me to actually finish.

Thanks for any advice!

Here is what I'd like to do:
http://inlinethumb13.webshots.com/35980/2669696380102161012S425x425Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2669696380102161012KyGVXo)

[amy_awesome]

I stitch on linen almost exclusively (28 count, over 2). Depending on the size of the pattern, I think you can get away without using a hoop/frame. The last things I did were huge (like 8.5x11" huge) and I needed the frame to keep myself sane while I worked on a color. It was really only my own sanity, though, not any difficulty in working the fabric.

[katmg]

Most of my stitching tends to be on linen and I find that it looks nicer if I did it in a hoop. I think because it keeps the tension even throughout but I'm kinda lazy so I need all the help I can get. :p

I don't find that linen is any harder to stitch than aida. My MIL says it hurts her eyes more though.

[Jane&Andy]

like amy_awesome, I pretty much exclusively stitch on linen (28 count over 2). I've never used a hoop. I've keep the backside as neat as possible to prevent any threads from showing through. I don't find it any harder.

[BusyBee]

Thanks for the advice. I have been working on a 28 count lugana over 2 for the past week and a half, and I really got the feel for it. Counting and re-counting is tough, but pretty smooth once some of the design is on the fabric. I have the moon almost done, and all of the white too.

But I have to put it aside now for another project, hope some of you can take a look at this and help me out:

It's for my friend's new baby. I just got this piece of hand-dyed blue and white opalescent fabric (28 ct), which seems perfect. I'm just trying to decide how to position it on the fabric.

Little Prince Cross Stitch (http://www.kodakgallery.com/Slideshow.jsp?Uc=eugy78a.g87u2vu&Uy=d6fb70&Upost_signin=Slideshow.jsp%3Fmode%3Dfromshare&Ux=0&UV=851979757278_11615507514&mode=fromshare&conn_speed=1)

I photocopied the pattern, scaled to the right stitch count and cut out the main parts to play around with it. I tried to cover the pattern in photoshop, to give a better idea how it will look. Stars and flowers will be added, and I'll put his name and birthday in the sky, too.

Thanks!

[melandtim]

busy bee that's beautiful!!

[melandtim]

just finished this pooh afghan for my twins.



http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j124/mharris44/pooh-1.jpg?t=1215100814

[Jane&Andy]

looks great Mel!

[silvergrey]

Joining. :) You guys stitch the cutest things! I used to cross-stitch like mad, then didn't have time for several years, then recently picked it up again.

I started this Santa years ago but had to set it aside. Just finished it up. I kind of regret doing it on the dark fabric now, but oh well.

http://i309.photobucket.com/albums/kk392/silvergrey_2008/santa.jpg

I just finished this for a friend's baby. This is the pic from the company...I modified the colors somewhat for a girl, and left the birds off. It's not my style, but it's what she wanted.

http://i309.photobucket.com/albums/kk392/silvergrey_2008/birth_record_for_baby.jpg

Does anyone do ribbon embroidery? It looks simple, but I think it's kind of hard! I did a small project or two, then gave up. I'd like to try it again though.

http://i309.photobucket.com/albums/kk392/silvergrey_2008/ribbon.jpg

[melandtim]

thanks Jane!

silvergrey - those are beautiful!