Artsy Crafty Library: Cool cross stitching

When I'm a little bored or feeling the itch of creativity and want a break from my go-to hobby of knitting I revisit past crafting pleasures. I recently reacquainted myself with the joys of cross stitch. Patterns have come a long way from the classic "Home Sweet Home." You can find patterns of feminist icons, horror images, funky animals, funny and/or snarky sayings, candy skulls or whatever you're into. It's easy to find a pattern you like and escape into some simple stitching. 

The library has many wonderful resources that are sure to set your imagination on fire. I've highlighted several pattern book suggestions below. I also recommend browsing Creativebug online video classes for inspiration. Creativebug is free with your library card.

Try cross stitching and make something beautiful, funky, unique or hilarious!

Materials needed

Plastic hoop

Blank fabric

Needle

Floss

Scissors

Design pattern you like 

Prepare the hoop

1. Loosen the screen and separate the two rings.
2. Position the fabric panel over the inner ring making sure to center the design.
3. Press the outer ring on top making sure to keep the fabric tight and tighten the screw to hold the fabric in place.

Begin stitching

1. Begin by creating half stitch lines on your first row. From the back of the fabric start from the bottom left and move to the top right. Repeat this process for the number of stitches indicated on your pattern. 
2. When your row is complete you’ll move in the opposite direction, from the bottom right to the top left, to create a full cross stitch. Repeat this process until you are back to your first stitch. 
3. Repeat for all rows.
4. To end a stitch, thread your floss through a few stitches on the back of the fabric to hold in place and trim the excess. You can do this when you start a new section or color.