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The Embroidery Sampler, Issue #40, August 2010 -- Potholder and Towel Pattern, Cross Stitch Fabric
August 10, 2010
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August 10, 2010

Table of Contents
  • Sewing Circle -- 3 Sisters Native Dress

  • To the Point -- Cross Stitch Fabric Advice

  • Words of Wisdom

  • Find of the Month -- Cross Stitch Potholder or Towel

Sewing Circle

This month's featured photo is a 3 Sisters Native American Dress with crewel embroidery. The pattern was designed by Miriam in California. She used symbols to represent the traditional planting of squash, corn, and beans. When planted together, these 3 sisters help each other grow.

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To the Point

Many people begin embroidery by trying the cross stitch method. For beginner cross stitch, use aida cloth with a low fabric count number. There is no need to use an embroidery hoop if stitching on aida or linen. Advanced stitchers can experiment with different fabric colors and fibers. A high count fabric can be adapted for low count designs by stitching in every other hole. See the cross stitch fabric guide to learn fabric names.

You can also have fun using premade items that have an area of evenweave for cross stitch. There are towels available with a band of aida, in addition to potholders, afghans, baby bibs, tablecloths, and other fabric items.

Words of Wisdom

"My granddaughter came to spend a few weeks with me, and I decided to teach her to sew. After I had gone through a lengthy explanation of how to thread the machine, she stepped back, put her hands on her hips, and said in disbelief, 'You mean you can do all that, but you can't play my Game Boy?'" ~Author Unknown

Find of the Month

The free embroidery pattern link this month is for a cross stitch potholder or towel using the special fabric forms provided by Charles Craft. This is a .pdf file. It shows some delicious cross stitch peaches and grapes.

You're Invited: Please share your stitching stories, ideas, words of wisdom, find of the month, or questions. Just reply to this newsletter and tell me what you think! I'd love to hear from you.

Amy Conaway


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