Counted Cross Stitch Projects

Knitted Fabric Cross Stitching

As a versatile textile craft, cross stitch doesn't limit itself to pillows, framed pictures or accents on clothing. Knitters and crocheters are able to blend two or more crafts by cross stitching a design or name, suggests Jennifer Stern.

Tunisian crochet, also called afghan crochet, and knitting lend themselves well to adding cross stitched designs. Because knitting and Tunisian crochet stitches have evenly spaced holes, it is easy to place each stitch of a cross stitch design.

Cross stitch is a natural choice for items of home decor. Accent pillows, framed wall hangings, pictures, kitchen and bath towels, and tapestry-style work -- such as a seat cover for a dining room chair -- are all project possibilities.

Beginning cross stitchers should select fabrics with an obvious even weave pattern, such as Aida cloth. Gingham fabric is another good selection for a novice cross stitcher because of its two-color grid, which makes it easy to plan and place each cross stitch, says Nikki on the Craftsylish blog.

Cross stitch and weddings mix well. Small items such as the ring pillow, place cards and tiny wedding favors, can be cross stitched by several family members and friends of the bridal couple. As themes and color schemes are chosen, the bride, her groom-to-be and the bridal party can select embroidery floss colors for the different items used in the wedding.

From traditional to whimsical, the items that are stitched up can become treasured mementos for the newly married couple. The most talented cross stitcher should be chosen to crochet a special wedding day sampler, which is personalized with the names of the bride and groom, as well as the date and location of their wedding, suggests Janis Applegate of Patterns Patch.

Christmas, with its spiritual and secular themes, gives cross stitchers a wide choice of projects to make for homes, friends and family. On the secular side, cute snowmen with top hats, carrot noses and scarves; sprigs of holly; and children sledding down a snowy hill are all natural themes. Don't forget about nature and Christmas -- Christmas trees, red cardinals, reindeer and poinsettias are good cross stitch subjects.

Looking at the religious aspect of Christmas, cross stitched vignettes of the Holy Family, the lowly manger lying beneath the star, baby Jesus lying in His mother's arms, the three wise men or a trio of angels blowing glad tidings to all are good cross stitch pattern choices.

Cross stitchers can make tree ornaments, gift tags, Christmas stockings, tablecloths or Christmas tree skirts year-round so they are ready for display in the home before and during the Christmas season.