Innholdsfortegnelse for January 2022 i The World of Cross Stitching

This month we’re bringing you a fantastic collection of wintry designs that will keep you busy once the festive period is over! Amanda Butler’s heartwarming scene of geese migrating to warmer regions perfectly captures the cold season (p58). Jenny Van De Wiele’s folk-style winter sampler awaits you on page 84, or for a quicker stitch try Alyssa Westhoek’s Scandi animals (p20). Find thoughtful handmade thank you cards designed by Nia Rhind on page 36 – choose from three designs to suit the occasion. Have you heard about the brand new Paintbox Crafts Threads launched by LoveCrafts? We’ve got an exclusive project designed by Cheryl McKinnon using these lovely new stranded cotton threads on page 42. If you’re a fan of romantic vintage style then you won’t want to miss Maria…

Star Letter ROYAL BLOOD LINE I was astounded by the beauty of Kareen Taylerson’s design of Henry VIII in issue 285 (October 2019). I kept the issue close at hand for months because I couldn’t stop looking at the beautiful colours, but I wasn’t sure why, as an American, I would stitch this picture. Something else I like to do, besides cross stitching, is research my family history, so I decided to see if Henry VIII was in my family line. I used the Family Tree app and I now know that I’m 70% British, and that Henry VIII married my 13th great aunt, Catherine Parr. How exciting! I was so thrilled with this news that I set out to stitch him right away. Now he’ll hang in a place…

Fiona Baker Our Senior Technical Editor Fiona is ready to solve stitching dilemmas and answer technique questions Heather Nugent Heather is a cross stitch designer and multi-crafter – she’ll help you transform your stitching into finished items Hannah Erskine A lifelong stitcher, our Charting Assistant Hannah can answer any chart or stitching related questions Jenny Barton Design pro Jenny has been creating projects for us for years and is ready to take on your design challenges Hannah Fletcher All set to hunt down those elusive charts and products, Hannah’s here to find shopping answers that you need Dream house Get Tiny Modernist’s uber-cool ‘Modern Dollhouse’ Dream house Q I’m looking for a modern doll’s house design. Can you point me in the right direction? maywahsiew, via Instagram A Hannah F:…

× Katie Boyd: I keep a list of all the projects that I intend to gift and try my hardest to prioritise those first. × Debbie Webb: I tidy my craft room and bag up WIPs in case I want to do them later (never happens). I then buy lots of new kits! × Stephanie Johnson: I have a stitching diary where I log my progress on a monthly basis. At the end of the year I write up two lists: one of WIPs I’m carrying into the new year with a minimum goal for each project, and one of projects that are ready to start. It helps me focus and tackle those pieces first. × Emma Rose Watson-Horsewood: I have a diary with special dates in such as birthdays…

With the colder months upon them, these sublime birds are heading south for their annual migration to enjoy warmer regions. Canada geese are well known for their distinctive markings and can be seen flying in V-shape formations. They’re certainly a sight to behold in their vast numbers, primarily seen in skies across North America. This duo look like they’re just starting out on the journey, and they’re inviting you along for the ride as you stitch them in all their wonder. Amanda Butler has used 27 shades – and some blending – in cross stitch, half stitch and backstitch to recreate the delicate plumage of the striking creatures, as well as the delightful snowy landscape below. The pink sunset dazzles as it adds a contrasting splash of colour in the…

Regular readers will already be aware of just how obsessed this editorial team is with all things stitch. We love to learn about our talented worldwide community of crafters, so our interest was piqued when US-based Tom McCormick, who’s studying for a master’s in branding at the School for Visual Arts (SVA) in New York, got in touch. With a reputation for being leaders in the education of artists, and alumni that include Academy-Award winners, Emmy-Award winners, and Grammy winners as well as Guggenheim Fellows, the SVA is the first to offer this kind of branding programme in the US. According to chair, Debbie Millman, this one-year course “provides an innovative look at the relationship between design, branding, science and strategy, and focuses on how students can use learned skills…

JENNY BARTON Choose from seven sympathetic designs and send a caring card to a grieving loved one to let them know you’re there for them during their time of need (p78). RHONA NORRIE Rhona’s adorable collection of cosy animals wrapped in winter woollies in this month’s Design Library are sure to warm hearts and raise a smile (p47). MARIA DIAZ If you’re a fan of period dramas such as Downton Abbey, you’ll love Maria’s stylish couple dressed to impress in fashion from the 1930s on page 10.…

Materials × White 14-count aida measuring 14x8cm (5½x3in) × Stranded cotton as listed below × Printed tri-fold aperture card and envelope Inside your kit… Here are the colours and number of lengths of thread Blue x2 Dark red x1 Red x1 Light red x1 Dark brown x1 Brown x2 Light brown x2 Light cream x2 Cream x2 Pink x1 Light blue x2 Grey x2 Total: 19 lengths Give French knots a go Factbox × Stitching Time Approx. 8 hours × Type of Stitches Cross stitch, fractionals, backstitch, French knots × Ease of Stitching Advanced beginner/intermediate…

Scandi designs continue to grow in popularity and it’s not hard to see why – the pretty graphic patterns are easy to stitch and are a welcome addition to home dècor. This delightful contemporary collection of animals is no exception! The stylish set is designed by Alyssa Westhoek from Stitchonomy, who’s known for her modern take on traditional embroidery. Using whole stitches only and in a colour scheme perfect for this frosty time of year, Alyssa has cleverly shaped traditional geometric patterns to make a fox, owl, deer and narwhal – creatures who all make their home in the snowy landscapes of the Arctic. While beginners will appreciate the simplicity of the designs, more experienced stitchers will enjoy using dark-coloured aida and completing the set in just a few evenings.…

Let’s look at overstitch Q I’m currently working on the ‘Christmas Village Part One’ from issue 312 (November 2021). Can I ask what is meant by overstitch? You mention needing to overstitch the exposed edges but I have never done this kind of detail before. I’m looking forward to putting it all together but scared I will do it all wrong. Jennifer Cleave, via Facebook A Heather: Fear not, Jennifer – overstitching is just a form of whipstitching, except it’s used to cover the edges of the plastic canvas instead of joining pieces together. It’s used as a decorative finish, and in this case we’ve done it on the edges of roofs and around the bottom of each building. To overstitch, pick out the shade of thread next to the…

Start your new year by making a perfect token to show your appreciation for a special present you received or an act of kindness that really touched you. Simple to whip up and pop in the post box, let these sincere messages do the talking with sweet motifs to show how grateful you are. Saying thank you means so much more when we put pen to paper, and these are sure to be warmly received with their pretty pastel tones and warm words. Nia Rhind has created three adorable patterns in her signature style to choose from, making them a versatile set for sending your thanks in winter, as well as one that can be easily customised to use throughout the year. Designed with whole stitches and backstitch only, these…

This traditional Russian nesting doll (also known as a babushka or matryoshka doll) is dressed in an elaborate wardrobe of cool frosty colours. Normally consisting of a set of wooden figures, which separate in the middle to more of the same that decrease in size within, the artistry of the decoration is renowned for its charm and ornate appeal. This design pays homage to the tradition of these collectables, with bead embellishments, rich colours and a special stitch you’re sure to master in no time. Don’t be put off by the advanced level – turn to page 68 to learn the oh-sew pretty lazy daisy stitch, which will add a flourish to your work. You’re sure to enjoy the challenge as well as the blackwork-style features, swirling snowdrops, as well…

Design my pet! Q Would you be able to help me stitch the newest addition to our family, please? Phoebe is a miniature chocolate dachshund, and she is the reason all my projects are now taking longer than usual! She just loves attention and interrupts my stitching. Rob Mitchell, via email A Durene says: Phoebe looks like a real cutie, Rob! I bet you really enjoy giving her lots of love, despite the fact she distracts you from your stitching! Dogs really are such a fun addition to the family. I’ve used six shades of brown and ginger to create Phoebe’s beautifully glossy coat, with some backstitch in dark brown to add definition. Her eyes are two white French knots, to give her an alert, playful expression. I’ve then used…

It’s winter in the village and the pond has frozen over, attracting skaters to spin across the ice and show off their favourite tricks. Two children have built a jolly snowpal and are now enjoying a snowball fight, while horses clop across the ground and a mother takes her baby out to wonder at the snowy landscape… There’s so much detail to enjoy in Jenny Van De Wiele’s miniature world, from intricate buildings and people to the border of poinsettia and pine boughs. You’ll love working on each of the gorgeous motifs – our favourite is the church with its golden bell and tiny wreath on the door! The 28-count linen in a beautiful smokey shade gives this project a real heritage feel. The fabric choice is also ideal if…

CALL THE HOTLINE TODAY 03330 162 137 Wallace & Gromit are ready for the grand day! Enjoy part four of our seasonal sampler series and deck your halls with stunning tree hangings. There are quick-stitch mosaic tree decorations and a Design Library inspired by The Nutcracker. You’ll also find a stunning poinsettia table runner to dress up your table, traditional greeting cards, a festive ABC and winter robins. EXCLUSIVE GIFT: 3D Christmas elf decoration × Issue 313, Dec Forever FriendsTM calendar, Santa and his little helpers, dalmatian cards, bicycle greetings, Kids’ Nativity, festive fairy, retro baubles, snowpal stocking × Issue 312, Nov Merry mice gift tags, Margaret Sherry snowpal, a festive manor house, part 1 of our 3D village SAL, clever advent calendar, Diwali cards and Thanksgiving ABC × Issue…

Be on the panel! × Get a sneak preview × Appear in the magazine × Receive a stitchy gift Jayne Perkins works in finance and sales admin and is from Stourbridge How did you start stitching? In my teens I helped my mum finish off a tapestry kit and I enjoyed that so much that I looked into other types of sewing and discovered cross stitch. On my honeymoon (of all times) I discovered cross stitch magazines – I’ve been hooked ever since. What’s your favourite project style and why? I don’t have a fave style. I love all sorts, but I do make lots of cards so small motifs are always best, especially for Christmas cards – I make quite a few each year. Fave WOXS design? I adore…

Bright young things in a world full of possibilities, this chic couple look like they could have stepped straight from the pages of a novel, or even the set of a stylish period drama like Downton Abbey. You can just imagine them stood in the magnificent manicured grounds of the manor house they call home, with all their hopeful dreams for their future together embodied within. Maria Diaz has managed to capture the style of the era with some sophisticated references to 1930s high fashion. You’ll enjoy all the perfectly placed details, such as the gentleman’s pocket handkerchief and the lady’s fashionable patterned dress paired with pearls. Wearing her elegant overcoat and embroidered hat, her partner is perfectly matched in style in his dapper chequered jacket and fedora. Stitched on…

Winter can evoke all kinds of images of snow-capped landscapes and cold frosty nights, but nature finds a way to survive even the harshest of conditions and it manages to create spectacular sights like this magnificent red rose. Set against a vintage grey background, the vibrant reds look all the more glorious and would certainly brighten your day, no matter what the weather’s doing outside. The snow-tipped petals and metallic highlights add a sense of magic to this pattern, and with falling snow dotted around the outside it makes an eye-catching scene to stitch. Designer Jenny Barton has created the realistic shading using six shades of red thread, adding a real depth to the botanical splendour. The deep green leaves contrast with this exquisitely. We’ve finished it in a simple…

Q Hello, I wonder if you can help me. I’m trying to get a realistic pattern or kit depicting a shoebill crane. I’ll be most grateful for any help or advice that you can give. Sandra Heath, via email A Jenny: I’m happy to design one of these for you, Sandra. They’re such incredible birds – did you know they can grow up to five-feet tall with an eight-foot wing span? I’ve kept the chart simple using whole stitch and backstitch in eight shades, and it should make a perfect card. The dance of the crane Jenny’s designed this distinctive East-African bird for Sandra Please note: Jenny can only fit in fairly small designs and for copyright reasons she is unable to chart logos, or characters from films and TV.…

Can you tell me the correct DMC* shade for 19 Apricot used in the ‘Steampunk Clock’ by Susan Bates from issue 303 (February 2020)? Pamela Meyer, via Facebook Hannah E: DMC thread shade 19 is actually one of the 35 new colours launched a couple of years ago, so this is the correct shade listed. You’ll find it available from the official DMC website, as well as other suppliers or local stockists. If your preferred store doesn’t currently sell it, ask if they can order some in. New threads See page 90 for information on DMC and other stockists I am enquiring about any model stitching opportunities you may have available? I have previously stitched several pieces for another UK publication and recently stitched a model piece for another designer. Emily,…

We all stitch on PICK OF THE MONTH We all stitch on Get these iconic new The Beatles cross stitch kits at Hero Collector* BEATLEMANIA Inspired by some of The Beatles’ most iconic visuals, Hero Collector*, an imprint of Eaglemoss, have released a new range of official The Beatles cross stitch kits. The fab four designs named ‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts’ Club Band Drum’, ‘The Beatles Portholes’, ‘The Yellow Submarine’ and ‘Magical Mystery Tour Bus’, are set to be a huge hit with music lovers and stitchers alike. In a range of sizes, with prices from £24.99-£44.99, kits include a cross-stitch hoop and all the tools, guides and materials for creating these bright and playful patterns. We’re particularly fond of the vibrant colours and contemporary designs and we’re confident fans…

Designed for stitchers eager to master new techniques and set themselves regular and fun new challenges, welcome to this month’s workshop, which focuses on queen stitch – a traditional stitch that forms a pretty diamond shape. I’ve loved using it for this ‘Happy New Year’ design and hope you will too. I aim to cover a wide variety of styles and themes each issue and the patterns are small enough to be stitched over a weekend or in between larger projects. My patterns are simple to follow, and I’ll always be sure to give you lots of clear step-by-step instructions for any special stitches. I wish you all a very happy and stitchy 2022, and I hope you get to celebrate in style! FABY’S MASTERCLASS NEW SKILLS TOP TIP If…

During difficult times, our friends and family keep us going. Knowing you’re loved can be the best comfort of all, but it can be hard to find the right words to help others in their time of need. When someone you care for is grieving the death of a loved one it’s so important to acknowledge their pain and offer your heartfelt condolences. One way to show compassion is, of course, with a card, so Jenny Barton’s designed a set that includes Christian designs as well as some simple non-secular options. At 10x10cm (3¾x3¾in) these can be stitched in a weekend and are perfect for those with a little experience. You’ll use 25 soft thread shades to work cross stitch, fractionals, backstitch and French knots in this set of seven…

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ISSUE 316 ON SALE 28 DEC GROWN IN YOUR HEART An exclusive sampler to celebrate adoption designed by Lucie Heaton THE LANGUAGE OF LOVE Send stunning messages to show your affection in ten different dialects SUITS YOU You’ll simply adore all the detail in Maria Diaz’s delightful tailor’s shop BE MINE Jenny Barton’s sweet stitches will make great gifts for your Valentine A purr-fect pawtrait THE WORLD OF Cross Stitching EXCLUSIVE You’ll be absolutely wild about Hannah Dale’s majestic leopard in her tropical habitat stitched on speckled fabric HELLO TIGER A fierce new stitch for the Chinese New Year WEAR YOUR HOBBY Find six charming charts for making the most adorable floral stitchy accessories PLUS MUCH MORE StitchGail Bussi’s intricate birdhouses for your tweetheart Stepinto the new year with Rhona…