I’ve decided to do something a little different with borrowed inspiration from now on. It’s one thing to just post pictures of fabulous project I’d like to do or wish I could do, or work that other people have done that looks fabulous. It’s another thing entirely to post how-tos of projects and skills that we can all follow and try out ourselves.
So, since we all have a little extra time in the summer (or at least pretend we do) I thought I’d give us all a little inspiration we can aspire to.
This first one I saw in an email from “The Making Spot” that looked so fabulous I can’t believe I haven’t heard of it or tried it before. Cross-stitch on paper, the best way to make the ultimate cross stitching cards.
The following tutorial is from The Making Spot website.
Step 1
Step 1 Begin with a scrap of aida – we’ve used a large 10 count aida, but you can use 14 count aida to create slightly smaller crosses than ours. Using your chart and a sharp pencil, draw crosses over each block to be stitched.
Step 2
Step 2 Using masking tape, attach the aida scrap on to your notebook or card. Place a few layers of felt or thick fabric underneath. Using a large needle with a sharp point, punch through only the holes to be stitched.
Step 3
Step 3 Remove the masking tape and aida swatch to reveal your design. You’ll notice that on the front side the perforations are smooth while on the back they’re rough and raised. Be sure to cross stitch on the front side.
Step 4
Step 4 Use a needle that’s smaller than the one you punched your holes with. Stitch just as you normally would, taking care not to pull or tug as you stitch. Place your finished piece under a heavy book to flatten if you like.
Simple enough right? There’s really no excuse for me to not try this on my next round of thank-you notes or Christmas cards. Let me know if you try this, or have tried it before!
