Innholdsfortegnelse for August 2016 i The World of Cross Stitching

Hope you’re making the most of the summery sunshine now it’s with us – I just adore this time of year to be outside stitching and enjoying the fresh air. It leaves me extra-inspired and ready to stitch up a new season of summertime projects. Like the gorgeous duck exclusive, new from Wrendale Designs. Hannah Dale’s the award-winning artist behind these adorable animals and I’m thrilled we’re the first to launch them in cross stitch for you. Rush over to page 10! For more summery goodness, I love this issue’s Cookie Bear freebie card kit. A cutie who’s easy-tomake and finish up in the fresh, illustrated mount… it’ll be fab to pop in my card stash ready for any occasion! We’ve also got an elegant geisha (p58), which’ll be great…

The saying ‘nice weather for ducks’ might be widely used, and whether rain or shine, this fellow clearly has plenty of energy for a good run about! Sending any unwanted waterdrops flying off his back – and quite a few feathers too, this clever design creates such a trueto-life sense of action and movement, any animal-lover is sure to adore it. Using rustic aida to add to the country, outdoors feel, you’ll use whole cross stitches in a rich range of natural shades to build up the realistic shading for this ruffled chap. There’s also plenty of backstitch within the piece too, so make sure you follow the chart carefully to achieve the perfect finish. With a scattering of fractionals and only a couple of French knots, this is one…

Sitting outside, feeling the warmth of the sun’s rays as you relax and unwind – what bliss! Or, maybe you prefer to potter about in your garden, making the most of a cloud-free sky by putting your green fingers to work? Either way, this gorgeous cushion is a celebration of those carefree summer days. Growing head and shoulders above the rest of the flora, the vibrant sunflower can reach over three metres tall, seemingly stretching as high as it can to reach its namesake. Loved by young and old alike, this striking plant makes the perfect focus for this uplifting design, a delightful wreath. You’ll love stitching these pretty petals into life, using whole cross stitches to create clever shading, and fractionals and backstitch to add definition and realistic detail…

Ruth Southorn Ruth, our Editor, has been a cross stitcher since she was tiny and is ready to share everything she knows Fiona Baker Fiona is our Technical Editor so she’s all ready to answer your problems on all things stitch and chart related Jenny Barton Design pro, Jenny has been creating projects for us for years and is ready to take on your design challenges Jo Stenlake All set to hunt down those elusive charts and products, Jo’s on hand to find shopping answers that you need Katriel Costello Stitching guru Katriel has worked in the industry for years, so has ample knowledge to answer any queries Just the right size needle Q I have been stitching for a while, but only recently have I started stitching on evenweave…

Joanna Young I put both my fabric and Soluble Canvas in a hoop to hold it in place as I don’t like using stitches to anchor the canvas. Chanda VanDuser When you’re starting out, be sure the design size measures one sheet of the canvas or smaller. Once you get the hang of it, you can work with larger sizes and add more than one canvas together. Robin Beket Arnhold In order to save time later, I always make sure that the waste canvas is basted down securely. Otherwise, it’s very easy for stitches to go awry which will mean unpicking and it’ll create a project that is less than professional. Rebecca Stephens If using Soluble Canvas, check how your threads react to water as you will need to get…

Sunflower ideas CLASSIC DESIGN SUNFLOWERS IN SUMMER Who wouldn’t want to live in this house, with sunflowers standing tall? Using whole stitches only, this sampler is great for confident beginners. The soft variegated effect of the recommended hand-dyed threads adds a lovely touch to the classic look. The chart (90029) by Country Cottage Needleworks is available from SewandSo*. Stitch count – 143 high x 143 wide, finished size 9.5x9.5cm (23¾x23¾in) on 30-count cocoa evenweave – could also substitute aida STITCHING FUN SUNFLOWERS The painterly quality of this floral study by Eva Rosenstand makes this kit (12-305) from Michael Whitaker Fabrics* a feast for the eyes. A single sunflower and smaller blooms are worked on rustic evenweave with pre-sorted quality threads. Ideal for first-time evenweave stitchers as it’s stitched over two threads…

“This issue is the August issue so it’s a good place to start… Peridot is a stone famed for its spring green hues. It was especially highly prized by the Ancient Egyptians. “September’s birthstone is the sapphire, traditionally linked to divine power. A great example is The Stewart Sapphire, in the British Crown Jewels. And more recently, the Duchess of Cambridge chose the sapphire and diamond cluster ring, as worn by Princess Diana, as her engagement ring. “Opal, October’s stone, is mainly sourced from Australia. A shimmering gem, it’s said to be a symbol of fidelity and assurance. October has another associated stone, too – the pretty tourmaline. “I think topaz, for November, is a fantastic gem, not only for its stunning colours but also because of its durability. At…

BLUE CROSS FOR PETS International Friendship Day is 7 August and we know that our furry friends can be some of our best pals. So, in honour of this special day, why not donate to Blue Cross for Pets and help unwanted dogs and cats to find forever friends of their own? For inspiration, see Pet of the Month on page 74 then stitch and sell your wares to donate the proceeds! MORE: To get involved, donate or download a fundraising pack, visit www.bluecross.org.uk WHERE AM I? We recently visited a beautiful medieval city with a lot of crafty heritage – it’s know for lace- and chocolate-making. On one of our leisurely strolls down the cobbled streets, we found a gorgeous needlecraft shop and I couldn’t resist getting a snap…

Full of delightful details, from birds and butterflies to a floral border that winds round the whole piece, this colourful scene is a joy from the first stitch to the last. While we love the look of crisp, white aida, sometimes there’s nothing better than black fabric to make your stitching pop, and with vibrant shades of pinks, oranges, greens and blues, Helz’s beautiful birdhouse design makes a striking case in point. It might seem intimidating to work with at first, but once you start stitching this pretty piece, you’re sure to start embracing your dark side! You’ll use a variety of techniques within this design, including fractionals and French knots, but stitchers with a bit more experience are sure to embrace the challenge. Filled with little touches that add…

Be on the panel! Get a sneak preview Appear in the magazine Receive a stitchy gift Sarah White who is a housewife from Nottingham How did you start stitching? About 18 years ago I was working at a care home and there were a group of us who would stitch and share tips. What’s your fave project style? I like giving handmade cards – they normally end up being treasured. Who’d play you in movie about cross stitching? Julie Walters as she has a sense of humour and is small in stature like me. I’d have Colin Firth be my husband! Who are your stitching pals? Despite numerous attempts to get my husband to stitch, he still refuses to join me. Favourite design? From issue 242, Emma Congdon’s 'Follow Your…

We love seeing your beautiful painting converted into cross stitch. Can you tell us more about your artistic background… I’ve always loved arts and crafts – I’ve been an avid sewer from a young age and was constantly making and creating things as a child. Drawing and painting was always a particular passion of mine and when I worked in London I missed having a creative outlet. So, when I moved back to my home county of Lincolnshire, I couldn’t wait to start painting again more seriously. I was thrilled that people wanted to buy my work and it encouraged me to start Wrendale Designs, based on my original watercolour paintings. Is your educational background in creative art studies? I actually studied zoology at university, and love animals and wildlife…

Fab florals GARDEN STITCHING The Cross Stitch Garden (ISBN 9781782213314) from Search Press* is an amazing book by Japanese embroiderer and author, Kazuko Aoki. Inspired by her love of wildflowers, this book contains over 70 cross stitch motifs and 20 stunning projects. Motifs include all your floral favourites such as violas, pansies, poppies and roses. They can be used on their own or to create traditional samplers, as well as bags, pincushions, pillows, coasters, aprons and tea towels. Instructions and charts are included plus step-by-step diagrams to create fantastically floral projects and gifts – perfect for beginners and more experienced stitchers alike! HOME STITCHING You’ll love this mini 'Home is Where the Heart is' sampler from Lifetime Samplers*. A design with attitude, this one has fantastic pink rayon threads as…

Crafty cards Q I make a lot of cards in cross stitch, but I prefer not to use standard size card blanks with apertures – I can customise the designs much better if I fold my own cards using cardstock. But then I struggle to find envelopes that fit. Do you have any tips on where to find unusualsized envelopes please? Karyn Higgsworth, via email A Sara says: I think we have just the answer for you, Karyn. The Ultimate Pro by Crafter’s Companion* is a fabulous tool that enables you to make custom-sized envelopes, in over 15 different options. There are even options for folding your own ‘enveloboxes’, which are created to fit cards with 3D elements or layered decoupage designs. There are scoring board lines and full instructions…

Keep calm and count! Q I’ve finally started stitching the hummingbird from issue 231. Having nearly finished the bird itself, I’m going to start on the blackwork… But WHERE to start? It’s imperative that it’s counted out right, so I don’t want to start on a edge… I’m thinking at the end of the beak into the middle of the lily? Advice welcome! Emily Baker, via Facebook A Fiona says: Don’t worry Emily! We always recommend that when stitching any kind of design, whether cross stitch or blackwork, or a combination, that you begin in the centre of the chart so it corresponds to the centre of your fabric. Not least because it makes counting easier, but also to ensure that your design’s centred and you don’t run short of…

With her big, beautiful eyes and dashing red bow, this pretty kitty is sure to win anyone over. Sitting up to attention, ready for her soft white fur to be stroked lovingly, we can’t think of a sweeter scene to have in your home, especially with that oh-so-true sentiment! Set against a charming country garden backdrop, those billowing poppies and daisies add a lovely burst of colour to tie the design together, while the subtle greens really make Durene’s gorgeous cat stand out. Using fewer than 20 thread shades, you’ll add interest and variety to the finished piece using several different techniques including backstitch, in both one and two strands, to create depth and texture in the background. Then, add the French knots for that twinkle in kitty’s eyes, and…

Transport yourself to a traditional Japense ima or ‘living space’ with a stunning mountain view. Listen to the songbird as you smell the fragrant blooms of the cherry tree and envision yourself in a beautiful kimono of the finest silk. Helen Brindley has captured just that in her stunning Japanese summer scene. Filled with beauty and grace, this geisha is a symbol of peace and calm and is a companion piece to Helen’s winter geisha in issue 210. Using whole cross stitches, half cross stitches and fractionals, you’ll enjoy stitching the smallest details. Plenty of backstitch will define this scene and a scattering of French knots will adorn the blossoms and colourful kimono pattern. Stitched on 28-count evenweave, this will be a finished project to behold. The subtle metallic shine…

Who can resist a good shopping spree? Not us, that’s for sure! This fantastic set features something for everyone, whether they love a stylish boutique or specialist bike shop, a tasty treat from the patisserie, or just stocking up on stash at the local craft store. With six designs to choose from, these alloccasion cards are a must-stitch! Packed full of detail, you’ll have great fun stitching each chart, adding little touches like hanging baskets, not to mention the goodies displayed in each store. There’s a pretty doll’s house in the toy shop window, a variety of bright beautiful blooms inside the florists, and a mouthwatering selection of scrummy cakes displayed in the darling little bakery. Using just whole cross stitches and backstitch, you’ll be done in no time, ready…

Find us online www.facebook.com/ theworldofcrossstitching www.pinterest.com/worldofxs www.twitter.com/woxscrossstitch www.youtube.com/crossstitchtv www.cross-stitching.com Join us on Facebook Chat 24/7 on our Facebook page – here’s what you’ve missed! OUR FAVOURITE POST Clare Brunyee: “I’m working on my version of 'Sleepy Kitten' from issue 238. It will be sent to Love Quilts UK so I have changed it quite a bit from the original chart to suit the child I have stitched it for.” 1,258 people like this YOU LIKED Elena Gh: ”My WIP is 'Buzzing by...' from Just Another Button Company. I’ve only been working on it for a couple of weeks after work, but it is so much fun to stitch, and it’s getting completed very quickly!” 1,180 people like this And the winner is… We asked you on Facebook: Which celebrity would…

Choosing just the right gift for a new baby isn’t always easy. Just image a bright and bold nursery, complete with a brand new baby asleep in the cot. What better to complete the room, than this gorgeous, vibrant sampler? The darling rabbit, deer, fox and raccoon are all ready to welcome the little one into the world. The wise owl and his birdie friend complete the design, surrounded by the pretty bright blooms. Be it a boy, or girl, this sampler will make the perfect gift. Stitched on 14-count white aida and using mostly whole stitches with some fractionals, this project is perfect, if you’ve a little stitching experience! With plenty of backstitch, to add detail to our forest friends, this will be fab practice. Plus, the project even…

CHOOSE YOUR ESSENTIALS… Start with these must-have items 1. FABRICS Begin with either aida or evenweave. Aida is best for beginners, with regular woven blocks and obvious holes. It’s stiffer than evenweave, but will soften slightly as you work. 14-count aida is the most common. It’s harder to work fractional stitches on aida, as you’ll need to make an extra hole in the fabric, in the centre of the aida block. Evenweave is a lovely fabric to work on when you have a little more experience. The fibres aren’t woven in blocks as with aida, so it’s softer and the fine weave has more threads-per-inch – the most commonly used is 28-count. One stitch is usually worked over two threads of the fabric so it has an equivalent design size…

Factbox Stitch for any occasion! Stitching Time Approx. 8 hours Type of Stitches Cross stitch, fractionals, backstitch Ease of Stitching Beginner TOP TIP Sort the threads in your kit carefully and in good daylight before starting to stitch – use an organiser and check colours to avoid unpicking later! Inside your kit... To help you sort your threads, here is a list of the colours and number of lengths inside your free kit: STITCH COUNT 35 high x 29 wide DESIGN AREA 14 HPI (28-count evenweave) – 6.5x5.5cm (2½x2in) This design was stitched using stranded cotton from your coverkit How to... mount your aperture card 1 Gently wash your finished stitching and press, face down into a fluffy towel. Adorable Cookie Bear’s aperture is pre-cut in the card blank in…

Star Letter I SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM Here’s my daughter, Eleanor, aged seven with her dad and the birthday card she made him from the kit with issue 241. She spent a week working on it while keeping it a secret from dad, and she can’t wait to make another one for her friend’s birthday. I’ve got a cross stitch addict in the making! Jenny Taylor, Lancashire Rachel: What a cute card, Jenny and Eleanor. I’m sure he was very impressed. Happy stitching! Wonderful wedding Almost a year ago, my husband and I had our magical Harry Potter-themed wedding. I’d like to share how we personalised our wedding using the art of cross stitch. When we first met on Halloween, AJ was dressed as a wizard and I was a witch.…

Q Could you design a chart of a Parson’s jack russell terrier? My mum and dad recently had to put their dog, Merlin, to sleep after many years of having him from a rescue home, so I’d love to stitch it as a memory for them. I hope you can help me! Claire Hudson, via email A Jenny says: Merlin looks like he was an adorable dog, Claire. I hope that my design captures this breed’s active personality and will be something for your parents to cherish. STITCH COUNT 29 high x 26 wide DESIGN AREA 14 HPI (28-count evenweave) – 5.5x5cm (2x1¾in) This design was stitched using DMC stranded cotton Please note: Jenny can only fit in fairly small designs and for copyright reasons she is unable to chart…

Paper perfection Q You sometimes use patterned papers when making up the cards – I love this idea, but I’m not sure how to pick patterns for my cards. Any tips? Frances Peterson, via email A Ruth says: No problem Frances. Enhancing your stitched cards with patterned papers is easy. Look out in craft shops for decorative papers, ideally in a 6x6in pad, as these are the best scale for cardmaking. A pad generally costs up to £6, and typically includes 36 sheets, so you’ll have plenty of options – the styles, themes and colourways are endless. Some of my faves are by DoCrafts*, also at Seven Hill Crafts* ones by Lawn Fawn, My Favorite Things and Echo Park. Take a look at these ideas, inspired by this issue’s tropical…

Create these stunning gemstone designs and share your treasures with your loved ones ✖ 44 quick-and-easy motifs ✖ Rhona Norrie’s design inspiration ✖ Stitches for every skill level ✖ Helpful tips and advice ✖ Unique present ideas for special someone BRILLIANT BIRTHDAY This precious gem (6) is fab, customised in a fave colour! Mount in a Craft Creations* square aperture card (AP10M), and decorate with stick-on gems from craft stores. TWINKLING TREASURE With a chest full of booty (42), recipients will be thrilled to see the treasure inside, great as a pirate party bag! Patch this motif onto a gift bag from high street stores. JUST SAY I DO! Decorate a jewellery box with this glam ring (4). Patch it onto a box from craft shops with double-sided tape and…

Design my pet! Q Hi Durene, I would love to stitch a picture of our pet Russian blue cat, Max. My son would just love it as he simply adores Max. Please, can you design a chart for me? Thanks so much – I can’t wait! Cherylyn, via email A Durene says: Thanks for your request, Cherylyn. I always love feline designs and Max looks like a very beautiful cat! Thanks for sending such a lovely photo. It was helpful in capturing the stunning ‘blue’ shade of this breed’s coat and his stunning emerald eyes. I designed this chart used mostly whole stitches with some fractionals to add some of the detail to his sleek coat. I then used backstitch for his cute little whiskers and for outline and definition.…

Getting started Where to buy your start-up kit – turn to page 96 to see exactly what you’ll need Ready, set, shop! ANCHOR www.makeitcoats.com 01484 681881 For kits, fabrics & threads CRAFT CREATIONS www.craftcreations.com 01992 781900 For blank & aperture cards DMC CREATIVE WORLD www.dmccreative.co.uk 0116 275 4000 For kits, fabrics, threads and more JOHN JAMES NEEDLES www.jjneedles.com 01527 830941 For needles & sewing essentials MADEIRA www.madeira.co.uk For fabrics, threads & accessories, buy in the UK from Barnyarns www.barnyarns.co.uk 01765 690069 THE WORLD OF CROSS STITCHING SUBSCRIPTIONS www.buysubscriptions.com/world 0844 815 0049 ZWEIGART www.zweigart.de For fabrics, buy in the UK from SewandSo www.sewandso.co.uk 01453 889988 Your projects Find all the charts, kits, threads & accessories featured in this issue BOTHY THREADS www.bothythreads.com BERTIE’S BOWS www.bertiesbows.co.uk COUNTRY DESIGNS www.country-designs.co.uk CRAFT DEPARTMENT www.craftdepartment.com…

Have you ever posted your tips on our Facebook page, for our Friendly Advice section in the mag? (This month’s advice on page 36 is about using waste canvas or Soluble Canvas, so take a look!) Meanwhile, here’s another tip I wanted to share… Marilee in Tucson, Arizona wrote about the Springtime Stitch Kit in our issue 241. She asked how to fit three card designs on the one piece of kit aida, whilst we’d recommended that three motifs from the Chartbook require a total of more fabric. True, we always suggest that any single motif needs aida measuring quite a bit larger than the stitch count in order to accommodate the extra needed for mounting in an aperture, and not least so it fits in your hoop while stitching.…