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Counted Cross Stitch Patterns, A Basis For Stitching Bliss

By: Julia Wigham

Anyone who loves to cross stitch knows they need the counted cross stitch patterns if they hope to enjoy their favorite past time. There are a variety of patterns available online, as well as countless companies that produce cross stitch kits. Depending upon what type of themes you like to complete, counted cross stitch patterns abound.

Just beginning your journey into this amazing craft? Here's a quick tip for you; there are two basic kinds of cross stitch patterns. One type is printed charts usually found in pattern books called leaflets. These patterns can be stitched on anything you want. You have total control with your project when using this kind of pattern. The other type is the stamped designs which are preprinted on items for you. These patterns are usually in blue, and can be found on several different items. Some things that may have preprinted patterns on them are a baby bib or a pillowcase. These items can be bought at most craft stores, and have the pattern already imprinted on the piece for you.

Personally I only tackled one stamped cross stitch project before I wanted something more challenging. My tablecloth had blue crosses printed on the fabric and a guide that showed me which color to use for each cross. Other printed cross stitch projects are worked on Aida and have some background areas printed in full color leaving other sections to be stitched.

When trying to develop your stitching skills, counted cross stitch patterns would be a good option to look into. They create more of a challenge than the stamped cross stitch items will. Of course, there is a greater margin for error with these patterns. Mistakes become evident usually after you've done several stitches and things don't line up the way they should. Locating these errors, and then fixing them is often times a stressful problem. However, as frustrating as re-stitching an area may be, it's a great learning experience. You'll be able to create a system of checks-and-balances for yourself to avoid a lot of the easier mistakes made in your earlier pieces.

Another creative benefit to counted cross stitch patterns is that you can create patterns that look exactly the way you want them to. You can personalize projects this way. Simply by changing some of the colors, or taking items from individual patterns and putting them together, you can make a whole new pattern. This is useful when making gifts or trying to match the dcor of the room the piece will be displayed in. Modifying patterns is also useful in many other situations.

So where can you start your search for the "perfect" pattern? Your local craft shop or discount store should have an assortment of kits for you to browse through. The chances are they will also have a selection of books or leaflets on various themes.

If you don't find what you like, check out what's available on the internet. You may be able to find just what you're looking for. Start by searching for a favorite artist such as Claude Monet or Vince Van Gogh; or, if you prefer modern artists like Thomas Kinkade. Cross stitch patterns are available by these artists and many more.

Starting a new hobby, especially one as diverse as cross stitch, can be exciting. Choosing the counted cross stitch patterns to stitch can be frustrating. Overcome the frustration by deciding upon the type of cross stitch pattern you would like, and then searching for it online. The door to the world of cross stitch is wide open, take the step through, and find the bliss of cross stitch.

Article Source: Main Articles

Julia Wigham is a professional writer and co-founder of Patterns Patch cross stitch forums. An online cross stitch club whose subscribers get free: patterns, articles and tutorials. Visit our colorful => cross stitch blogs today!

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