If you are looking for a pastime that is both creative and engrossing, then cross stitch may be just the thing for you. Cross stitch is a popular form of embroidery with counted threads – basically the idea is to create stitches on a regular grid. This might not sound like a lot of fun when explained in words, but as with so many things, some of the magic is lost in the transition from actions to words.
The name “cross stitch†comes from the fact that the basic stitch for each “square†in the pattern is made with a stitch that lays two diagonal lines across each other, making an x or cross. Sometimes the activity involving patterns and cross stitches is called “counted cross-stitchâ€, to differentiate it from other forms.
Cross stitch has its roots deep in embroidery, particularly those found in continental Europe and Asia. Originally, cross-stitching in Europe favored simple floral and geometric designs, with one or two colors. As one can imagine, these were elegant pieces, yet simple and limited, as our technologically-aligned eyes are likely to view it. The older pieces look “flat†and “two-dimensionalâ€.
The modern cross stitch took on a whole new life when we achieved means of producing high-quality thread and cloth in many colors and shades. It then became possible to produce different shades, but retain the same hue, thus leading to gradients and color transitions in embroidery. As a result, the new cross-stitch patterns can come out looking like paintings, albeit with a “pixelated†look. In fact, quite a few cross-stitch patterns are derived from popular works of art! Imagine doing Van Gogh’s Sunflowers or Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa without the need for messy oil paints!
If you are a bit of a geek or just like the pixelated look that older computer games had, then cross-stitch is a perfect medium for presenting your love for that stylistic movement. You get a natural 8-bit or 16-bit look, yet still get a richness and variety of colors beyond the 256-color palette.
For those who like complex geometric patterns, there aren’t many things that can beat the Celtic cross and Celtic knot cross-stitch patterns. These designs draw upon the rich and ingenious artistic heritage of the Celts to produce images that captivate the eye and inherit a sense of mystery.
Perhaps you prefer something that fits in with the holiday. Well, that’s no problem at all. You can work on a Valentine’s Day pattern for something special to give to your loved one. Or maybe you could stitch away on a Christmas pattern – perfect for those relaxed days spent bundling up and keeping warm.
If ever you get tired of following a pattern, you can try your hand at making your own designs too. It is the ultimate in cross-stitch creativity, and will prove to be a challenge with sweet rewards time and time again. Why not take a look through the countless designs available and look for the one that speaks to your soul, then get started on this creative hobby and pastime?
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