Rants, Tantrums, Savvy & Knowhow by Iona (the voice of Counted Cross Stitch) from her Lonely Mountain Retreat.

Are you a creature of habit? I know I am. When I buy threads (floss), I usually go for DMC or Anchor threads, occasionally supplemented with some metallic threads for Christmas or birthday projects.

I’ve recently been bolder in my choices, however, and the choices are very appealing. Here are just a few that have delighted me:

DMC’s Linen threads
This is a great choice for adding character or an aged effect to your latest project. Their subtle colour palette will enhance traditional projects as well as adding a touch of authenticity to sampler designs. If you’d like to develop this effect even further, try working on linen fabric or aida, both of which are also available from DMC.

Kreinik’s Blending Filament
Blending Filament is very versatile to use with cross stitch, and is available in an array of colours and finishes so the choices are huge. It is perfect for adding highlights, whether it’s to enhance a watery shimmer or add extra details. It’s an ultra-fine thread, which should be blended with another variety of thread, or alternatively you can work it over the top of you stitches instead.

Madeira’s Lana threads
These have a wonderful woolly texture that is ideal for adding a fluffy appearance to your design, being made of a mixture of wool and acrylic. The most popular designs that use this thread are wintry, snowy scenes or designs of animals where you want to recreate a furry effect.

Madeira’s Silk thread
These are beautifully soft to the touch and their characteristic sheen adds a great lustre to your work, making them perfect for a special project. They are made with 100% silk. They are made up of four divisable strands, instead of the usual six. To get the best results, use them together on a large area of the design so that their shine is enhanced.

DMC’s Light Effects
These add a sparkly sheen to a project, and can be used on their own or blended, according to the effect you want. Each strand is made of two threads twisted together, so tape these together at the end when not in use.

Anchor Variegated threads
The results of using these threads can be stunning. Each thread varies in shade, from light to dark. To get the best results, , pull each thread from the same cut length then regroup together, making sure that the colours match from end to end.. To achieve subtle colour change from one shade to the next, make your stitches individually X X X. alternatively, try making your crosses from the outside of a shape towards the centre. This can give a delicate colour washed finish that’s perfect for sea or sky.

Happy Stitching!

Iona

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A couple of years ago, a good friend of mine had an accident with an electric saw, losing three of his fingers. Since then, I have thought many times about how I often take my hands for granted. Hands are two of the most visible and useful parts of us, but they also take a lot of abuse. For many people with hand problems, stitching is not possible. Others are able to make adjustments, and manage to stitch under certain (often difficult) conditions.

Perhaps you have difficulties with your hands; maybe you have a skin condition, or possibly problems affecting the muscles, tendons, joints or bones. It’s likely that you will be using ways to make the most of your difficulties, and if you have any tips to pass on to others, please do so via this blog.
 
The anatomy of the hand is complex. Each hand contains over 25 bones. Arthritic problems in the hands can be painful, often causing visible deformity, impacting grip, strength and hand function.

Joint pain and stiffness can affect mobility and manual dexterity. Stitching can become difficult for people with arthritis. Severe arthritis can be very limiting.  Repetitive stress injuries can often result from repetitive motion, overuse, poor posture and fatigue.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. It can be caused by repetitive motion, injury, or inflammatory types of arthritis.

Skin disorders can often affect the hands, and for stitchers who have eczema, bleeding sores or flaking psoriasis, this can be a great challenge. Many people have found relief from wearing cotton gloves when stitching. These protect the skin from contact with rough fabric and allow the stitcher to use skin cream while stitching.

Some stitchers report that using a frame, instead of a hoop can be helpful. Also, if you are stitching a small project, such as a card, then stitching the motif on a large piece of fabric in a frame can prevent the fatigue that can be experienced when stitching on a small piece of fabric.

Handeze Energising and Therapeutic Support gloves have been specifically designed through ergonomic research and are user-proven to help alleviate the pain related to Repetitive Strain Injury, Hand Fatigue, Stress Related Injuries, Arthritis, Poor Circulation, Tendonitis and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. They even produce gloves (Flex-Fit) that have an adjustable wrist strap for extra wrist support.

We do need to take good care of our hands if we expect them to work as well as possible. So if you are experiencing pain or muscle fatigue, don’t hesitate to see your doctor to discuss your symptoms. You’ll be glad you did.

Happy Stitching!

Iona
 

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If you enjoy stitching gifts for family and friends, you may be familiar with that awful feeling that you are not going to have time complete the project in time for the recipient’s birthday, Christmas or other great occasion.

This can be stressful, and can potentially lead to panic-stricken evenings, rushed work, a bad temper and mistakes. This is not a good accompaniment to a gift that is supposed to demonstrate friendship and love.

One stitching friend of mine started making a wedding sampler for her sister – and by the time she had nearly finished the project, her sister was marrying for the second time round!

The key to getting projects completed on time is to plan ahead right from the start. This means borrowing some tips from time management skills, and applying them to your hobby, but without losing the fun element to your stitching, of course.

Here are some tips:

1. Give yourself plenty of time. This is stating the obvious, of course, but if you rush to meet a deadline, then you may lose that enjoyment that comes from a relaxed evening of stitching.

2. How much time will you need? We all overestimate the amount of spare time we have – so when considering how many hours will be needed - double that time.

3. Consider the design in detail. In estimating how much time you need, remember that some parts of a design get completed quickly; other parts take longer. Your stitches cover the fabric quickly when you are stitching blocks of the same colour, and only have a few colours to use. Time needs to be added for designs that have lots of subtle colour changes (eg. four shades of green for some foliage – so lots of counting to do). Remember too that French knots and exotic stitches take longer to do. The few extra seconds per stitch soon add up.

4. Write up a stitching plan. No, I don’t mean spreadsheets or flow charts. Just some target dates for various parts of the project. Then you will know if you are starting to lag behind.

5. Stitch in small chunks – a small amount frequently, rather than whole days of catching up. You can give yourself mini-targets – ‘I’ll finish stitching that teddy bear’s head this evening and then watch TV’ perhaps.

6. If you are planning to use professional framing services for your completed work, then you will have to add on extra time to incorporate that.

Ultimately, it is important to stitch a gift with love, and not in haste. So – what if you really cannot finish the gift in time? Tempting though it may be to think up excuses or even avoid seeing the recipient, it’s best to confess! In my experience, people do not mind too much if they receive a present late. After all, it’s the thought that counts.

If you have any associated tips, do share them with us.

Happy Stitching!

Iona

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Now that Summer is well and truly over, we’re being reminded that it’s never too early to start stitching our Christmas projects.

This can be tricky. Concentrating on icicles, snow scenes and Santa Claus when the sun is shining outside can seem unappealing.

I always resolve to make my family and friends cross stitched cards, but as Christmas looms nearer and nearer, my plans become less ambitious. I think this is because I always overestimate the amount of free time I shall have. Is it the same for you?

Furthermore, I am reading in magazines and on websites that this or that card ‘can easily be stitched in an evening’. This makes life seem uncomplicated. Let’s be realistic here. How many uninterrupted evenings do you have? With meals to cook, telephones ringing, TV programmes to lure you away from your stitching, one evening’s stitching can drift into three evenings. So that’s why I’m starting early.

As for my plans, this year, I resolve to choose a few simple motives, stitch them on some coloured aida and place them into home-made specially shaped aperture cards that can be turned into bookmarks.

I also plan to use motives that include: robins, hearts, angels, Hellebore (a flower) and stars.  I intend to exclude the obvious Christmas themes because I want these cards (bookmarks) to last longer than the Christmas season. Santa Claus looks rather tired by the first week of January, so although I want to extend my Christmas wishes to my family and friends, I like to choose a more enduring set of themes for my Christmas stitching so that my tokens of friendship are taken into the next year.

We’re never too far away from the thought that the credit crunch has dictated that we all have to be more frugal, and for stitchers, this may cause a great deal of frustration as we plan our Christmas purchases. We all know that it is the thought that counts when we give presents or cards, so cross stitch is a wonderful way to demonstrate loving thoughts without spending a fortune.

You can economise with your stitching in the following ways, in the countdown to Christmas:

1. Go through your stitching paraphernalia and see what fabrics, threads and other accessories you have stored away that you may have forgotten about. It’s surprising what may lurk in the bottom of that box! You may have lots of stitchery that you can make into cards, bookmarks or Christmas ornaments with a bit of ingenuity.

2. Swap any excess stitching possessions with those of stitching friends. Everyone can end up with something new – with no money spent.

3. Be realistic about how much you can achieve in pre-Christmas stitching. Buy accordingly, and look out for bargains along the way.

4. Christmas themes are, by definition, perennial. Check out motifs used last year, or in books/magazines stored away rather than splurging on new ones.

5. Buying fabric in large quantities is one way of getting more for your money. So get together with some stitching buddies and buy in bulk.

If you have any other tips for fellow stitchers, please don’t hesitate to share them with us.

Happy Planning – and Stitching!

Iona

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I’ve often felt so happy cross stitching that time has passed by without my being aware of it. That is one of the pleasures of cross stitch, as we all know.

Have ever felt as if your eyes were burning or aching after a stitching session? Perhaps you have a stitching deadline to meet and needed to finish a project by the end of the evening - or maybe you just got so carried away that you continued stitching into the night?

We know that looking after our eyes is very important. Eyestrain can produce painful headaches and stress. There are some tips, however, that can help us to look after that most precious stitching tool – eyesight – and save us from pain and tired eyes.

1. Eye Tests. Yes – you guessed this one! But just because it is obvious, that doesn’t mean that you can disregard it. As adults, our eyesight is likely to deteriorate over time, and we need to keep aware of other eye conditions that may affect out ability to see. Go for regular tests, and take advice from your eye specialist. A new eye-glasses prescription can work wonders for your stitching pleasure.

2. Light up your work. Either work in good daylight where that is possible, or invest in a daylight lamp. This is so much better than traditional home lighting. Daylight lamps are designed to reduce eyestrain and allow you to see the colours clearly, which is perfect for stitchers who need to see subtle differences between colours.

Now for two great exercises to soothe your eyes:

1. Far Distance Focus. Every few minutes, get up and move away from your stitching. Do some stretches, and make yourself a drink. Sit quietly, and look at four points in the farthest part of the room, or out of a window. Gaze softly, shifting from one point to the next. Avoid jerking your focus from one point to the next one; move your focus slowly and gently for a few minutes. Relax and enjoy these moments.

2. Palming. This is very relaxing. Sit at a table and prop up your elbows on cushions to relax your shoulders. Rub your hands together to warm them. Then place your palms on your cheekbones and put your hands over your eye orbits, placing the pressure on your elbows. This prevents the light from entering your eyes. Open your eyes into the darkness made by your cupped palms over them, and relax. Breathe deeply, and feel the tension go from your eyes.

These exercises are easy to incorporate into stitching sessions – and also for computer use, reading and other close craft work too. I hope you’ll find them helpful.

Happy Stitching!

Iona

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Here’s a question: If you could only have one book on Cross Stitch, which one would you choose?

I have an entire shelf of books about cross stitch. Some have been presents to me; some were bought on impulse, and others have been swapped with friends. Although I would never get rid of any of them, I confess that I do not open some of them from one month to the next. Are you similar to me in that respect? There are a precious few that I read and refer to, time and time again. These favourites include those written by Shirley Watts, Julie Hasler, Jane Greenoff and (the late) Jo Verso.

So – to answer my original question myself: after much thought, I have concluded that I would choose ‘The New Cross Stitcher’s Bible: The Definitive Manual of Essential Cross Stitch and Counted Thread Techniques’ (David & Charles) by Jane Greenoff.

This is a completely new and revised edition of the original best-seller, ‘Cross Stitcher’s Bible’, from the stitching guru and popular cross stitch designer, Jane Greenoff. It successfully serves the needs and interests of newbies and experienced stitchers alike.
 
Her down to earth words are supported by beautiful pictures on every page – from essential equipment to charts, a stitch library, inspiring projects, and techniques. From cards to cushions, there’s something for every stitcher here. This is a must-have reference for all cross stitchers to bring them up-to-date with the latest trends, materials and techniques.

As for inspiration, Jane has never forgotten her stitching roots. We are definitely not born as experts, and the hard work that she has invested is clear to see. She reflects on her first attempt to cross stitch: ‘Looking at blank fabric and not knowing what to do next was a bit scary – the secret is to take it in easy, bite-size pieces.’ When I first read that, I felt inspired to raise my stitching game. If she could be a great stitching expert, then so could I.

If you have any great favourites,  do share your favourite book ideas with us.

Happy Stitching!

Iona

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Have you noticed that when you are a newcomer to a club, a community or a hobby, everyone speaks in a special language – using words and expressions that take time to understand?

Cross stitching is no different. Check out chat forums, magazines and books, and there will be a selection of mumbo-jumbo that you will eventually come to understand the more time you invest. Once you tune into the language, then you start using that secret language yourself.

A friend of mine stated that she spent ages thinking that Aida was an opera by Verdi. Well, yes, it is… and I cannot think why the fabric that we’re all familiar with, has been given the same name.

For new stitchers, Patterns Patch has a full glossary of terms to access that will help you to understand the special vocabulary that comes with the hobby. This will save you a lot of worry, and help you to communicate with other stitchers.

I have put together a small list of stitching acronyms that can help newbies in the world of stitching. I bet you can think of more! Here is my list for starters:

WIP
Work In Progress. That refers to the stitching project you’re working on at this moment.

WISP
Work in Slow Progress
This means what it says, with the implication that the project has been worked on, on and off. Perhaps a newer project has taken over, and the WISP is placed – temporaily – to the bottom of your cupboard.

OAAT
One at a Time. This refers to projects being started and finished, in order. This flies in the face of stitchers having many projects on the go at any one time.

UFO
This means an UnFinished Object. We all have these lurking in our cupboards, and occasionaly these make us feel guilty.  

Of course, there are always the ‘American English’ versus ‘UK English’ confusions. For newbies, floss is the same as thread, the former being the American version of the word. Again, patterns are equal to charts, although these words are more often used interchangeably.

I would guess that you have some additional cross stitching terms that are familiar to those who  have stitched for a long time – but a complete mystery to newcomers. Let’s share these words and welcome new cross stitchers from everywhere in the world.

Happy Stitching!

Iona

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We are all familiar with ‘Forever Friends’ - a selection of little bears that appeal to the child in us all, whatever our ages. This Bear Collection yesterday celebrated its 21st birthday.

Since the 1980s, a lot has happened to this group of bears, probably reflecting the changing tastes of the public who fell in love with them originally.

After the little bears first appeared on artist Deborah Jones’s sketch pad in 1987, they were published in the very popular ‘Forever Friends’ greeting card range. The brand’s distinctive look soon became synonymous with giving a friend ‘a hug in an envelope’.

In 1997,  a special new range was launched called ‘Between Friends’ focusing on the closeness of friendship for younger people. For others, another range hit the shops, this time called ‘Blanc’ where the bears were painted with only a a hint of pastel colour, on heavier paper. While lots of popular trends emerged, the Forever Friends bears stayed as adorable as ever.

The year 2005 saw the relaunch of the Forever Friends bears – this time making their activities and surroundings more up to date. They found themselves as cross stitch charts and kits – and even on computer desktops.

The Forever Friends website includes games, polls (currently: What makes a good friend?), competitions,  treats for mobiles, gifts and wallpapers.

If you want to give someone special in your life a big bear hug, why not consider a Forever Friends kit or pattern?

Happy Stitching!

Iona

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Today is the last official day of Summer. If you live in the UK, you may well be asking, ‘What Summer?’ The weather has broken records for being wet and cold  - and many people’s holidays have been ruined by floods and airlines suddenly going bankrupt. On the other side of the Atlantic Ocean, it’s the hurricane season. Of course, if you have managed to enjoy a summer outdoors in beautiful conditions, then that is great!

For the time being, you can clear away those summertime blues by counting your stitching blessings.  We all have our own personal reasons for cross stitching.  Here are just a few reasons to be a cheerful stitcher:

1. Unlike many hobbies, cross stitching is a – mostly – indoor activity, so when the weather gets bad, you can enjoy a creative evening indoors, stitching the hours away.

2. The many designs available to stitch means that you will never be short of ideas of projects to stitch. Patterns Patch Club members have hundreds of free designs to choose from.

3. Cross stitching is a relatively inexpensive  hobby. Once you have a few basic essential tools, you are all set to go.

4. The pleasure you can get from the completion of a project is immeasurable. To look at a picture and think, ‘I did that’ is the best feeling.

5. You don’t have to be an expert to get great results. Anyone can learn how to cross stitch. Yes – there are some advanced stitches and techniques, but you can get a great sense of achievement from basic techniques alone.

6. Once involved with your stitchery, many people say that their worries seem to float away. It is relaxing, can give you confidence and quickly builds up to a great result.

7. Stitch for some supreme time by yourself – or make friends.  The choice is yours! Stitchers are a wonderfully friendly group of people – and you can meet up with fellow stitchers online, or join your local club. Options can be found at your local needlecraft shop.

8. You can become involved in your own particular choice of designs. Cute cartoons, traditional floral designs, samplers, abstract art or landscapes… the choice is yours to enjoy; to reproduce your artistic tastes onto fabric gives you a great buzz.

9. Are you feeling tired after a long day? Cross stitch is relaxing – not only because it demands little energy, but also because you can lose yourself in every stitch.

10. Habit-busting! Are you trying to diet, or stop smoking? Cross stitch can be helpful here. Busy fingers are not delving in the biscuit tin or cigarette packet. You soon lose your obsession with bad habits when you are focusing on the cross-stitched design that is growing before your eyes.

Whatever the reasons you started to cross-stitch, you are sure to discover new benefits of this hobby.

Happy stitching!

Iona

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