I love checking out new books and patterns, so when I picked up a copy of Heather Holland-Daly’s new book “Stitch Graffiti – Unexpected Cross-Stitch” I was definitely looking forward to it.

Stitch Graffiti is a fun, approachable introduction to the world of cross-stitch. There is a useful overview of threads, basic stitches, types of canvas and more.  The patterns are easy to follow and will definitely appeal to a younger audience, whether it’s a tween, 20 or 30-something.
The patterns are hip, colorful and great for anyone from a complete beginner to a more advance stitcher who wants to have fun …read more

This is such a cool technique for all you cross-stitch and needlepoint fans!
Unfortunately, I can’t post the video here, but you can follow this link to Youtube and watch it there.   Basically, the video is a tutorial on creating your own gridded needlework patterns using your own photo and a transparency sheet.
It’s definitely worth checking out – especially if you want to try making your own patterns

 Did you know that you can interchange needlepoint and cross-stitch patterns?   For instance, this needlepoint tapestry (from an out-of-print book by Stephanie Hedgepath) I did a few years back is actually from a pattern for cross-stitch:

As long as there aren’t a lot of half or quarter stitches (which you can’t do in needlepoint) you’re good to go!
Now there can be one little snag… most cross-stitch patterns call for DMC thread – but that won’t always work for needlepoint.
You’ve got two options at this point…  #1 at this point is what I used in the horse tapestry.  I used two …read more