CHARM ABOUT YOU

I do always like to try something different and have found myself more drawn to incorporating vintage fabrics and re-purposing fabrics. Partly so that I can create something completely unique and also to use what already exists. I happened to discover a unique find that worked perfectly for this months Aurifil Artisan challenge! I've created a cross stitch piece using vintage lettering and a second hand embroidered cloth... yet it still has a modern flair!

While I was at Stitched Up my eagle fabric spying eyes were drawn to a dainty and beautiful cloth. Amongst a variety of left-over bits and fabric scraps that were being used to create peace banners; there was this piece of white cloth with intricate detail, floral appliqué, embroidery and weaving. I believe it is a small table cover or tray cloth. 

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.

And not only did I finish stitching it, I actually framed it too!