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We all like to jump right in when we're excited about something new, like a new hobby. Cross stitch is no exception. Many of us try to tackle a project that's simply too big when we first start out. We overlook that we're a cross stitch beginner, and we buy a kit that overwhelms us. It's easy to end up with a half-completed project this way. Many kits have complicated patterns, a myriad of threads, and complex stitches. Jumping into the deep end can cause you to get discouraged almost immediately. The best thing a cross stitch beginner can do is learn the basics before they attempt to stitch anything and the following two sites teach everything that you will need to know to stitch your first masterpiece: www(dot)yarntree(dot)com/007begin(dot)htm On this site, you'll find everything you need to get started. The main page has a chart that's free. You'll also be glad to know there's a list of the cross stitch items you need to buy. Spend some time exploring this site because you'll find information that can help you learn more about cross stitch. For instance, you can learn about cross stitch fabric choices, how many strands of floss to use, and what tasks you should do before you begin a project. Even more advanced cross stitchers can pick up a few ideas from this site. www(dot)caron-net(dot)com/patguide(dot)html Even if you are no longer a cross stitch beginner, you'll find this second site helpful. The site contains a wealth of cross stitch information. You can find tips about specific stitches, suggestions when it comes to fabric choices, and ideas on the best way to use various flosses. Moreover, every few weeks more information is added, so this is a site you'll want to visit on a regular basis. After you visit these sites, you'll have a better idea how to create your first cross stitch project. Your next step will be to locate a pattern you like. Your choices can seem endless when you first take a look around the internet. Actually, many of the patterns you'll find aren't suited to a beginner. You need to pick a pattern that is easy for someone who's just starting to cross stitch. Here's a tip--go to www(dot)cross-stitch-academy(dot)com/beginners/beginners(dot)html when you first start looking. This is a great site with eight terrific patterns for beginners. Each pattern has a chart that shows you which colors to use, directions on how to stitch the picture, and an illustration showing how the finished project will look. What's wonderful about this site is it's so easy and helpful that even children will find it fun. These great patterns are free for you to download and enjoy. Take a moment to look at each of them. You'll find a nice variety, with everything from flowers to a pretty border, plus some great holiday patterns. You'll also find a great little project to give Mom. Even if your skills are more advanced, you'll find fun patterns on this site. While you're exploring the internet for patterns, you'll want to look at several sites. One excellent site is www(dot)dltk-kids(dot)com/type/crossstitch(dot)htm where stitchers of all skill levels can find patterns they like. Although at first you may feel this site is for children, a quick look around will prove it has a lot to offer all stitchers, particularly a cross stitch beginner. The site has many lovely patterns, including favorites such as a dog, a cute ladybug, a turtle, a cat, a chicken, and a great frog. Your choices don't end there. You'll also find holiday patterns on this site, including a pattern you can make to celebrate Mother's Day. The wonderful thing about cross stitch is it's a hobby filled with possibilities. Even if you are a cross stitch beginner, you'll easily be able to find terrific patterns to follow. As your skills increase, even more options will become available. With a little practice and patience, before you know it you'll soon be a cross stitch pro!
Article Source: http://www.philvault.com
John Wigham is a highly experienced author and co-owner of Patterns Patch an online cross stitch club devoted to counted cross stitch and assisting every cross stitch beginner.
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