Table of contents for November 2019 in Cross Stitch Crazy

Katie Kegie Art Editor This month… “I’ll stitch my sister a fun Christmas card with one of the hats on page 39” Lou Smith Production Editor This month… “Those beautiful trees on page 44 have got my name all over them!” Emily Godwin Designer This month… “I’ll make fun party invites with the pretty celebration designs on page 36!” Fiona Baker Technical Editor This month… “I plan to update our Christmas tree with the bright ideas on page 22” Heather Nugent Charting Editor This month… “I might make cute cards using one side of Fiona’s merry sleighs on page 72” Hannah Erskine Charting Assistant This month… “The party hamster on page 58 will be a big hit with my young nephew!”…

GIFT AVAILABLE with print edition of issue 260 only CALL ☎ 03330 162 133* TO BUY Old Saint Nick’s back in town, and he’s pulling out all the stops to wish you a happy Christmas! Bursting from the centre of a wreath adorned with golden baubles, holly and a big red bow, this tiny Kris Kringle is the picture of festive cheer. His arms are spread wide with joy, ready to wrap your loved ones in a big holiday hug! This scene is full of fun details to stitch, from Santa’s twirly moustache to the wreath’s French knot berries. In this small but complex kit, you’ll work your way through a varied mix of whole stitches, fractionals, backstitch and French knots. And be sure to check the key carefully before…

From A to Z Fill your home with the luscious greenery of this trendy alphabet! Using the six skeins of threads, 18-count aida, needles, chart and instructions that come in this kit, you can grow your own nature-inspired nameplate, sign or quote – in stitches! The Leafy Letters kit costs £16 and is aimed at beginners. These beautiful designs use whole stitches only, so you’re sure to stitch them with ease. We be-leaf in you! To buy, visit www.woolandthegang.com Once upon a time Disney fans, rejoice! The magical world of fairytales meets the fun of our favourite craft in Disney Princess Cross-Stitch. The book features all 11 of Disney’s princesses – both classic and modern – in easy whole stitches. You’ll find step-by-step guides to get you started and clear…

Made to measure My uncle owns a tailoring shop in Malaysia that has been in our family for over 100 years! It was originally opened by my great-grandfather in 1915. And, since I’ve recently caught the biscornu and pincushion bug, I decided to put together this mattress pincushion to give to my uncle for his shop. I was looking through my stack of magazines for ideas when I came across the vintage sewing set by Rhona Norrie in the Spring 2018 issue of Cross Stitch Favourites. I adapted two of the designs to be the top and bottom of the pincushion, changing some of the colours to match what I had in my stash, and then used smaller motifs to decorate the sides. I can’t wait to surprise my uncle…

There’s something special about receiving a letter or card in the post, especially at Christmas time. And Lucie has captured that magical feeling in her set of vintage stamps, using details like dainty hearts and swirling snowflakes. You’ll make quick work of the whole stitches and fractionals that make up the main parts of each design. Then, have fun adding all the finishing flourishes using backstitch – that’s what gives these pretty designs their stamp-like appearance in the crimped border! When you’ve finished stitching, it’s easy to turn your work into an advent calendar, as we did – simply add envelopes, string and pegs. Or, make personalised cards and tags – you could even send a letter to Santa himself! And the numbers are great for special anniversary cards or…

You are a winner! Nikkita from Walsall “I’m Nikkita, and stitching helps me to relax with my mum after a hectic week of school and gymnastics, my other hobby. I mostly stitch on 14-count aida as I find it easier to see and the crosses form more quickly!” I’m a Crazy Kid stitcher! Are you a kid who’s mad about cross stitch? If so, fill out the form below and send it in to us, along with a photo of you and your stitching, for the chance to feature in Crazy! Fill in and cut out this coupon (or photocopy and send to: Crazy Kids… Cross Stitch Crazy, Immediate Media Company Bristol Ltd, Eagle House, Colston Avenue, Bristol BS1 4ST or email crazykids@cross-stitching.com Win! FISKARS…

Stitch the Scandi way! 1 Stitch horizontal blocks of simple repeating patterns, such as snowflakes, to create a knitted Fair Isle appearance. 2 Layering folky borders is great for creating customsized or shaped designs as you can use more or less of the repeats to suit your needs. 3 Small Scandi projects are great for speedy stash busting as they’re usually minimalist and often contain just one or two shades – perfect for Christmas cards! 4 Bring the cosy Danish concept of hygge – pronounced ‘hoo-ga’ – into your home by turning a larger Scandi design into a cushion cover and snuggling up! 5 Create a festive sampler by combining Scandi-style motifs such as fir trees and snowflakes. Plan your design on graph paper or charting software, then get stitching!…

AFGHAN – a woollen blanket or rug with areas for cross stitching AIDA – the most common cross stitching fabric, made up of thread woven in blocks rather than singly AIDA BAND – a thin strip of aida with a decorative edge, used to adorn towels, bookmarks, etc. Comes in various widths APERTURE – the space through which a design is shown (mainly on cards and in frames) BEADING NEEDLE – a long, fine needle that slides easily through seed and bugle beads DESIGN AREA – the measurement of the finished design, depending on the count of fabric used EVENWEAVE – fabric made from evenly-spaced woven threads. It’s softer and more flexible than aida FABRIC COUNT – the number of holes per inch (HPI) on your fabric. The higher the…

… to the 20th anniversary issue of Crazy! That’s right, it’s been 20 years since Crazy first appeared on the scene back in 1999. To celebrate, we’re hosting a mega-giveaway on page 56, with 20 prizes worth £100+ each. Plus, we have all you need to start your winter stitching! I love Emma Congdon’s Christmas greetings cushion on page 64, which features the phrase ‘Merry Christmas’ in 18 different languages. Or, if you’re looking for cards, try Maria Diaz’s classic poppy-themed designs on page 30 for Remembrance Day, or the pom-pom winter hats on page 39 for any winter holiday or event! And for a real festive treat, learn how to stitch and make your own plastic canvas Santa sleigh on page 72. Enjoy, and thanks for being part of…

She set trends as Purdey in 70s TV series The New Avengers and split sides as Patsy Stone in beloved 90s sitcom Absolutely Fabulous. Nowadays, you’ll find Joanna working to support her favourite charities or lending her iconic look and voice to documentaries and more. Gather the girls together for a night of stitching as you create this glam portrait – you’re sure to have a time worthy of Patsy and Eddy! Reader’s pick! Requested by DEBBY DUARTE Who would you like to see as a Crazy Celeb stitch? It might be your favourite actor, a Hollywood icon or even a sporting great! Email your requests to celebstitch@cross-stitching.com or post them to: Celeb stitch, Cross Stitch Crazy, Eagle House, Colston Avenue, Bristol BS1 4ST. If the celebrity you request is…

Whether the branches of this little tree are filled with the vibrant flowers of spring and summer, the fiery leaves of autumn or the icy snowflakes of winter, they’re a glorious sight to see – and stitch! Follow one tree’s abstract journey through the seasons as you create each design in just whole stitches and backstitch. Display all four as a full set, or exhibit just one and change for each season! Need to know Stitch Time 15-18 hours each (approx) Stitch Types Whole cross stitch, backstitch Shopping List… Threads - Stranded cotton as listed in the key Needle - Size 24 tapestry needle Fabric - Zweigart 14-count white aida measuring 23x23cm (9x9in) for each design. To buy, visit www.lakesideneedlecraft.co.uk or call ☎ 0333 050 1184 Extras - 6in wooden…

Spread joy to the world – or to anyone who visits your home – when you stitch the phrase ‘Merry Christmas’ in 18 different languages! Guests from near and far will feel right at home when they see it. Use easy whole stitches to fill in most of the lettering, then add the all-important swishes and strokes with backstitch. When you’re done, use panels of fun, festive fabric to turn your finish into a cosy cushion, as we did here. Now you have a beautiful decoration that you can proudly display to all each Christmas! Need to know Stitch Time 38 hours (approx) Stitch Types Whole cross stitch, backstitch Shopping List… Threads - Stranded cotton as listed in the key Needle - Size 24 tapestry needle Fabric - Zweigart 14-count…

Remember, remember, the fifth of November – it’s time to put down your toffee apple and pick up these colourful and clever stitches! Fun times £2, Furry Tales Fireworks Mouse by Lucie Heaton www.lucieheaton.com Lucie Heaton has created yet another adorable design! Here, her Furry Tales mouse is joining in on the celebrations. This 7.5x8cm (3x3in) stitch is just the right size for a card. What a wonder £3.84, Japanese Fireworks by Fifi Grace Designs www.fifigracedesigns.etsy.com The sky is alive in this sparkling design – it’s an impressive display! Stitch it on navy blue aida for added impact, using whole stitches and backstitch in 11 shades of thread. The design will measure 8.5x9.5cm (3½x3¾in) on 14-count aida. Light up the skies £5.11, Fourth of July Fireworks by Dandelion Stitchery www.dandelionstitchery.etsy.com…

Marilyn Wagner Leeds Who do you most like to stitch for? I enjoy stitching for my friends and family. They receive a lot of my projects as gifts! How would you describe your stitching style? My stitching style is mostly slow and sure, as I want to make sure I get the design right. How cross stitch crazy are you? I like to stitch for at least four hours a day! Which project are you most proud of? I’m most proud of the Nativity scene I did from one of the Christmas issues of Crazy. Which occasion gets your needle twitching? Birthdays, Christmas and anniversaries! When I’m not stitching, you’ll find me… Depending on the weather, I’m usually outside gardening or reading a good book. Alice Volpato Italy Which cross…

During the festive season, the whole world seems merry and bright – so turn your home in to a vibrant winter wonderland to match! Add these cheery and colourful designs to your decorations this year and watch your tree take on a brand-new look. Or, turn them into special gifts for all your friends! Send out bold baubles, captivating cards and stunning samplers – there’s something for everyone in this fab set! Need to know Stitch Time 1-6 hours each (approx) Stitch Types Whole cross stitch, backstitch Shopping List… Threads - Stranded cotton as listed in the key Needle - Size 24 tapestry needle Fabric - Zweigart 14-count white aida measuring a maximum of 15x15cm (6x6in) for most designs. To buy, visit www.lakesideneedlecraft.co.uk or call ☎ 0333 050 1184 Extras…

However you choose to honour the service of our brave soldiers, these striking designs are a wonderful way to share that remembrance with your friends and family. The delicate petals of the poppies, together with the sophisticated lettering, will look right at home on a dear one’s windowsill. And, as each chart uses whole stitches and backstitch only, you’ll find you can stitch them in no time at all. You could then take a small set to a local charity event and sell them to help raise funds for www.britishlegion.org.uk Need to know Stitch Time 2-6 hours each (approx) Stitch Types Whole cross stitch, backstitch Shopping List… Threads - Stranded cotton as listed in the key Needle - Size 24 tapestry needle Fabric - Zweigart 14-count white aida measuring 15x15cm…

Need to know Stitch Time 3-5 hours each (approx) Stitch Types Whole cross stitch, backstitch Shopping List… Threads - Stranded cotton as listed in the key Needle - Size 24 tapestry needle Fabric - Zweigart 14-count white aida measuring 12x12cm (4¾x4¾in) for each design. To buy, visit www.lakesideneedlecraft.co.uk or call ☎ 0333 050 1184 Extras - Single-fold cards, backing papers and pom-poms (optional) of your choice from local stores…

OVER £1,265 IN PRIZES TO BE WON! Festive Gift Fair tickets! The Festive Gift Fair will be at the NEC in Birmingham from 14th-17th November, and will be filled to the brim with new and creative ideas for your Christmas projects! We have 15 pairs of tickets up for grabs. Visit www.festivegiftfair.co.uk for details. For your chance to win, visit www.cross-stitching.com to enter for free, or send a postcard labelled ‘Festive Gift Fair 260 giveaway’ to the address listed below. 15 PRIZES WORTH £390 Bothy Threads Fairy Tales kit! Add a sprinkle of magic to your Christmas stitching in the form of sparkly sequins, beads and metallic threads. This enchanting Melody kit, part of Bothy Threads’ Fairy Tales series, comes with all you need to stitch and finish this charming scene –…

These wild cuties are throwing a party to celebrate 20 years of Crazy! Help them finish baking cakes and blowing up balloons as you work your way through easy whole stitches and simple backstitch. We stitched ours straight onto T-shirts using soluble canvas, adding patched-on pockets after. But little hands will have no problem working these fun stitches on aida then attaching them to a favourite jacket or backpack. So come and have a crazy party with your new furry and feathered friends! Need to know Stitch Time 8-10 hours each (approx) Stitch Types Whole cross stitch, backstitch Shopping List… Threads - Stranded cotton as listed in the key Needle - Size 24 tapestry needle Fabric - 14-count soluble canvas measuring 12x12cm (4¾x4¾in) for each design. To buy, visit www.lakesideneedlecraft.co.uk…

OUT OF THIS WORLD Stitch something sensational this year! Try the Fantasy Ornaments kit by Design Works Crafts. It’s available for £19.35 from Stitcher at www.stitcher.co.uk or when you call ☎ 0161 464 7310. HYGGES AND KISSES We love a bit of folky festiveness, so we’re big fans of these dandy Scandi baubles. The Christmas Hearts charts cost £4.95 from Creative Poppy Patterns at www.creativepoppypatterns.com CHRISTMAS CHEER For beautiful retro styling to make your tree turn heads, it has to be Satsuma Street. Download the set of six bright Christmas Ornaments charts for £7.07 at www.satsumastreet.etsy.com…

Dashing through the snow, full of festive goodies just for you, these sweet sleighs are bringing Christmas cheer through the holiday season. You’ll find yourself whizzing through the whole stitches, worked on plastic canvas, and before you know it, you’ll be watching your sleighs come to life as you follow the guide on page 76 for putting them together. And there’s plenty of fun to be had adding sparkly embellishments such as sequins, ribbon, tinsel and more for a fab finish. Need to know Stitch Time 25 hours per complete sleigh (approx) Stitch Types Whole cross stitch Shopping List… Threads - Stranded cotton and metallic thread as listed in the key Needle - Size 24 tapestry needle Fabric - 14-count clear plastic canvas measuring 12x16cm (4¾x6¼in) for each sleigh side panel…

Understanding charts and keys Follow the steps below for an introduction to getting started, then use the simple instructions opposite to learn each stitch! Reading the chart Our charts are printed with coloured squares containing symbols that represent squares to be stitched on the fabric. The key alongside the chart will tell you what colour thread each symbol corresponds to, so you know which one to thread your needle with (see right). Where to start The centres of our cross stitch charts are marked out using small arrows on the edge of each side of a chart. This is the best place to start stitching, so you end up with the design in the middle of the fabric. To find the centre of your fabric, fold it in half horizontally,…