| like to jump right in when we're excited about | | | | because they may be too difficult, which may cause |
| something new, like a new hobby. Cross stitch is no | | | | you to become discouraged. Instead, look for easy |
| exception. Many of us try to tackle a project that's | | | | patterns. The question becomes, where should you |
| simply too big when we first start out. We overlook | | | | look? The internet is filled with cross stitch patterns, so |
| that we're a cross stitch beginner, and we buy a kit | | | | where should you start? |
| that overwhelms us. It's easy to end up with a | | | | Here's a tip--go to |
| half-completed project this way. Many kits have | | | | www(dot)cross-stitch-academy(dot)com/beginners |
| complicated patterns, a myriad of threads, and | | | | beginners(dot)html when you first start looking. This is a |
| complex stitches. Jumping into the deep end can | | | | great site with eight terrific patterns for beginners. |
| cause you to get discouraged almost immediately. | | | | Each pattern has a chart that shows you which colors |
| You need to be aware as someone starting out as a | | | | to use, directions on how to stitch the picture, and an |
| cross stitch beginner you need to master the basic | | | | illustration showing how the finished project will look. |
| elements of the craft first. Thankfully, websites exist | | | | What's nice about this site is that you can find all sorts |
| that can help you learn how to cross stitch correctly | | | | of patterns, including a pretty border, some holiday |
| so that you can create beautiful keepsakes. One such | | | | patterns, and lovely flowers. Even children who are |
| website is:www(dot)yarntree(dot)com | | | | just learning to stitch will be able to follow these |
| 007begin(dot)htm On this site, you'll find everything you | | | | patterns. If you're no longer a beginning stitcher, you'll |
| need to get started. The main page has a chart that's | | | | find patterns for you on the site as well. These |
| free. You'll also be glad to know there's a list of the | | | | patterns, like the ones for beginners, include |
| cross stitch items you need to buy. Spend some time | | | | easy-to-follow instructions. |
| exploring this site because you'll find information that | | | | When you get bored by this site, or just too good at |
| can help you learn more about cross stitch. For | | | | stitching, then you can also try |
| instance, you can learn about cross stitch fabric | | | | www(dot)dltk-kids(dot)com/type/crossstitch (dot)htm |
| choices, how many strands of floss to use, and what | | | | where there are loads of free beginner patterns to |
| tasks you should do before you begin a project. Even | | | | choose from. Technically this site is a children's site but |
| more advanced cross stitchers can pick up a few | | | | I regularly visit and download a couple of easy |
| ideas from this site.www(dot)caron-net(dot)com | | | | patterns for my cross stitch beginner daughter and the |
| patguide(dot)html This second site has loads of hints | | | | odd one for me. |
| and tips to help make counted cross stitch easier for | | | | The site has many lovely patterns, including favorites |
| all levels, not just beginners. After reading it I must | | | | such as a dog, a cute ladybug, a turtle, a cat, a chicken, |
| admit that I learnt a few new things and so this is the | | | | and a great frog. Your choices don't end there. You'll |
| perfect site for our newbie brothers and sisters. | | | | also find holiday patterns on this site, including a pattern |
| There's information on fabrics, flosses, basic stitches | | | | you can make to celebrate Mother's Day. |
| and more advanced ones and the bonus is that new | | | | The wonderful thing about cross stitch is it's a hobby |
| hints and tips are added every month making this site | | | | filled with possibilities. Even if you are a cross stitch |
| one to add to your favorites list. | | | | beginner, you'll easily be able to find terrific patterns to |
| After you've had a chance to learn some of the | | | | follow. As your skills increase, even more options will |
| basics, you'll want to find a great pattern for your first | | | | become available. With a little practice and patience, |
| project. When you're first starting out, you'll want to | | | | before you know it you'll soon be a cross stitch pro! |
| find a simple pattern. Avoid complicated patterns | | | | |