The World of Cross Stitching July 2020
Every issue is packed with the very best cross stitch designs, expert advice and in depth technical features, as well as product news, reader letters and stories, competitions and giveaways.
in this issue
welcome
Even if you can’t be outside to enjoy the sunny weather, this month’s projects should set the scene so that you can be surrounded by summer in your homes at all times! The tropical toucan by Kay Widdowson (p10) will transport you to a jungle paradise, head to the beach with Jenny Barton’s summery alphabet set (p29) and make Durene Jones’ vibrant roll-up placemats for indoor picnics or to use in the garden (p78). I am in awe of Maria Diaz’s elegant geisha gazing across the breathtaking landscape on page 38. There are so many wonderful details for you to enjoy from the gold metallics highlighting the intricate pattern of the kimono to the beads in the geisha’s hair pin! Look out for Maria’s complementary design in our next issue 296…
meet some of our designers…
IAN HALLOWS Celebrate the arrival of a new baby with Ian’s adorable bear (p64). Use the backstitch ABC to personalise with the baby’s name, date of birth and weight. SUSAN BATES Head to the skies with Susan’s collection of 43 fantastic airborne motifs (p47), featuring spaceships, balloons, kites, rockets, gliders, helicopters and more. KAY WIDDOWSON Kay’s lively toucan will add a splash of colour to your home (p10). You’ll love stitching the vibrant exotic plants and creating the texture on the bird’s plumage. Your chance to win! See page 77 to enter our competitions & be lucky…
meet our guests
Angie Walkery Fenyw is a data analyst from Newport When did you start stitching? I learned to cross stitch as a child when I was at school. My mum still uses the pincushion I made for her when I was nine years old. What are you working on? A huge magnolia that my daughter bought me. It’s so big I’m having to stitch it sideways on the frame and have to keep reminding myself which way the stitches lie! Fave WOXS design? ‘Hill Top Farm’ by Michael Powell in the January 2020 issue (289) was very tempting. I currently have a WIP of his ‘Secret Gardens’ design which I intend to finish next summer. What do you love and enjoy the most about cross stitch? Cross stitching brings me inner peace, it always has and always will. I…
furry tales
Unicorn Mouse key STITCH COUNT 40 high x 34 wide DESIGN AREA 14 HPI (28-count evenweave) – 7.5x6cm (2¾x2½in) This design was stitched using DMC stranded cotton Missed a chart? ISSUE 294 Stitch Monty practising his keepy-uppy skills for footiemad boys and girls. ISSUE 293 Make way for Her Royal Highness, Princess Lizzie of Furry Tales, in her ballgown. ISSUE 292 Here comes hardworking Monty with a lawnmower, ready to tackle the garden. For back issues, call ☎ 03330 162 139 or visit http://bit.ly/1NwX3Rv Flossie Mouse is wearing her favourite fancy dress outfit – she’s a magical unicorn! Stitch this sweet design of Flossie in her stripy dress, flower crown and spiral horn for a little one who loves unicorns as much as Flossie!…
your exclusive gift!
TOP TIP The backstitch is integral to bringing out the wonderful detail in the design so be sure to add this last and take your time Meet the designer Siobhan Harrison I loved putting my signature vintage twist on this garden scene. I hope you all enjoy stitching the delicate details as much as I enjoyed creating them. Be sure to find a quiet spot in your garden while you stitch it! Add gorgeous shading Factbox × Stitching Time Approx. 15 hours × Type of Stitches Cross stitch, half cross stitch, backstitch, French knots × Ease of Stitching Intermediate Shopping list × Zweigart 14-count white aida measuring 30x30cm (11¾x11¾in) × Stranded cotton as listed in the key × Size 24 tapestry needle × Frame of your choice with a minimum aperture of 15x15cm (6x6in) Thread & fabric cost Approximately £26…
welcome to paradise
Dig out your bold threads and get ready to stitch this vibrant backdrop of exotic plants and flowers. Nestled among the colourful jungle leaves lives a happy toucan, with his characteristic curved beak and sleek, black feathers. With a playful glint in his eye, this bird is ready to get this summer party started! Chock-full of fascinating features, this fun style has plenty of backstitch in one and two strands to draw the eye to the intricate shapes and patterns of the surrounding foliage, as well as drawing attention to the toucan’s detailed body plumage. All this texture adds an extra dimension to the piece and really takes this project to the next level. You’ll find pops of colour throughout in the form of French knots. Persevere if you find them tricky…
