keep it simple, Stitchsperation cross stitch

woo hoo!! I'm happy to start the year with a finish. I was encouraged by Carolyn Friedlander's informal QAL and, while this isn't a quilt, I knew it would be the push I needed to get it done. The fact that I have purchased a new cross stitch pattern, specifically to stitch this year, also meant this one had to be finished. A woman with so many quilt projects on the go can't possibly work on two cross stitch projects - so not true - but I'm sticking to that because it will prevent a slippery slope. 

Keep it Simple is a kit from Stitchsperation - Charlie creates such a cool selection of modern cross stitch kits and the hand painted fabric makes them so unique! You can choose your colour / colours / or even rainbow too. I picked 28ct evenweave (she also has 14ct aida) and obviously I went for pink. The kits are so nicely packaged, with everything you need (I actually had a bobbin of thread left over) and I definitely recommend getting one of the snap frames. I got mine last year and love it, it's so easy to use and adjust. Great for embroidery and cross stitch.

keep it simple, Stitchsperation cross stitch kit

And not only did I finish stitching it, I actually framed it too!
I have an older finished project, still sitting around unframed and I didn't want that. My husband quite expertly (of course) picked out the frame from our gallery on the wall, took out a photo and replaced it with my cross stitch. We didn't even have to trim it down. Perfect!

keep it simple, Stitchsperation cross stitch framed Charm About You

Apologies for the slight glare in the pictures but I was so excited I didn't take any pictures before it got framed! I really enjoyed the kit, it was very easy to follow and it makes such a statement in the black frame. 

There is something so peaceful about the act of stitching each little cross; concentrating, mindful of each stitch, focusing on the pattern and seeing it emerge. I get quite lost in it. And when it's time to stop, it's hard not to just do one more stitch!

keep it simple, Stitchsperation cross stitch close up stitches, hand painted fabric

It's now up on the wall and it looks awesome. Even the kids each noticed and they love it too. It's a wonderful phrase, serving us as a great reminder to seek simplicity.

keep it simple, Stitchsperation cross stitch framed Charm About You