Cross Stitch Favourites Spring 2017

With that in mind, we’ve reached out to some of the UK’s most talented cross stitch designers to bring you the very best collection of alphabets that we know you’ll love to stitch. One of the great things about our abcs is that they’re pretty much suitable for any stitcher. So, if you’re a complete beginner, then start by stitching someone’s initial to make a customised card. Once you have gained confidence you can move on to creating whole names and inspiring phrases that can be turned into fantastic gifts for all your family and friends. Experienced stitchers can enjoy whipping up the simpler letters when you need a break from larger projects, and those after a challenge can tackle one of our gorgeous sampler designs that put whole alphabets…

“Pay careful attention to the key as you stitch this design, as the number of threads you use to bring this sweet scene to life changes all the time.” Fiona Baker, technical editor SHOPPING LIST Fabric 14-count white aida measuring 36x30cm (14x12in) Threads Stranded cotton as listed in the key Needle Size 24 tapestry needle Extras Blank canvas measuring 25x20cm (10x8in) Stitcher’s guide This adorable sampler is worked on 14-count white aida. You’ll whizz through the larger areas of colour using whole cross stitch and fractionals, while the backstitch and French knots will keep you busy adding detail and definition to this future heirloom. We think this is a great project for an advanced beginner to expand their skills with. How to stitch the baby sampler 1 Find the centre of your fabric by folding it in half both horizontally and vertically. Use…

Perfect for summer parties! Stitch Tip Make a birthday cake even more special, when you stitch our tempting abc onto aida band to wrap around it SHOPPING LIST Fabric 5cm (2in) wide 14-count white aida band with blue trim, cut to the required length Threads Stranded cotton as listed in the key Needle Size 24 tapestry needle Stitcher’s guide This mouth-watering alphabet is stitched onto aida band which you can cut to the length of your lettering or the object it is decorating. The letters are worked in whole cross stitch, backstitch and French knots, so it is a great project for confident beginners who are looking to take the next step. “I’m hosting a charity tea party this summer, so I’m going to stitch lots of strawberry-themed decorations to give my guests an extra treat!” Heather Nugent, charting assistant How to stitch…

Stitch bespoke gifts Stitch Tip If you’ve not worked backstitch or French knots before, then practise on some scrap aida first to build your confidence SHOPPING LIST Fabric 8cm (3in) wide 14-count white aida band with white trim, cut to the required length Threads Stranded cotton as listed in the key Needle Size 24 tapestry needle Extras Medium jute gift bag (IPN2) from www.craftdepartment.com Stitcher’s guide Our garden-themed letters are stitched onto 14-count aida band and contain whole cross stitch, backstitch and a few French knots, so are ideal for beginners who are wanting to learn new skills. “I take so much inspiration from my garden, so it’s nice to dedicate a project to my favourite place. An abc is the perfect way to show off the different elements of a garden, then you can put different letters together and watch how the design…

Quick & easy to stitch SHOPPING LIST Fabric 14-count white aida measuring 15cm (6in) high x the measurement of the name, plus 10cm (4in) for framing Threads Stranded cotton as listed in the key Needle Size 24 tapestry needle Extras Frame of your choice and cup screws from a hardware shop Stitcher’s guide Our fairies are brought to life on 14-count aida and contain whole cross stitch and backstitch only, so are ideal for beginners, although stitchers of all abilities will enjoy these magical quick makes. “I promised my niece I’d teach her how to stitch, and I think I’ve just found the perfect project! We’ll start with her initial and gradually build up to her whole name to hang on her bedroom door.” Abi Barker, special projects coordinator How to stitch the abc 1 Find the centre of your fabric by folding it…

Great for beginners SHOPPING LIST Fabric 14-count white aida measuring 15cm (6in) x the required length Threads Stranded cotton as listed in the key Needle Size 24 tapestry needle Extras Rice for filling the doorstop; backing fabric; mediumweight iron-on interfacing Stitcher’s guide Easy to work, our train letters are stitched onto 14-count aida and contain whole cross stitch and backstitch only, so are ideal for stitchers of any skill level. Bright idea Pick backing fabric in zingy shades to brighten up the play room. “I love designing kids’ projects as you can really go to town with colour. I used bold primary shades for these letters, which all sit on their own carriage. Just stitch the train, then choose your carriages and connect them to spell names or messages. It’s a really fun make!” Fiona Baker, designer Stitch Tip If you work this alphabet on coloured…