If you think you know what cross stitch is, look again! Jamie Chalmers, aka Mr X Stitch, shows you how to cross stitch using simple step-by-step instructions and also takes you to the frontiers of cross stitch design. The book is aimed at stitchers of all abilities, from absolute beginners looking to learn a new craft to embroiderers and cross stitchers who want to do something different in cross stitching. For many, cross stitch conjures up images of cute kittens and country cottages, but this book shows people that theres a different side to cross stitching that its an art in its own right, and will encourage them to be a little braver with their art. Jamies writing style is fun, entertaining and highly inspirational. The book aims to appeal to men as well as women, encouraging one and all to take up the ancient craft. It teaches the basics of cross stitching, including information on materials, tools, techniques and colour blending, but also puts Jamies own individual spin on it, with urban flavours and the introduction of different materials such as glow-in-the-dark threads and stitching on metal. As well as providing exciting designs to stitch, there is guidance on how to create cross stitch designs of your own, for example by using photographs and other images for reference. Jamie also showcases the work of other contemporary cross stitchers who are pushing the boundaries of their craft, and introduces more than 20 stunning cutting-edge projects to make, showing that beauty, innovation and 'craftivism' are alive and kicking in this inspirational book.

Sometimes it's good to be a little improper. Profane, funny, and smart, Haley Pierson-Cox's book invites the modern crafter to bring personality and humour to their cross stitch projects. Her easy to follow instructions and colourful designs can make a cross stitcher out of anyone.

Make a statement—and smash the patriarchy, one stitch at a time—with these forty feminist-themed cross-stitching patterns! Crafty activists will love this snarky book with its forty irreverent, vintage-inspired cross-stitch patterns. Whether you want to proudly announce to the world that you’re a nasty woman or remind others that a woman’s place is in the revolution, you’ll find edgy slogans, sharp one-liners, and cheeky images that make fabulous wall art or wonderful handmade gifts. An illustrated basics section will get you started, with information on materials, tools, techniques, and framing your finished pieces. “[Rohr] truly understands the therapeutic value of reclaiming what was once traditional ‘women’s work’ as a modern, empowering medium. Her designs are spot-on and well executed with clear, encouraging instructions. There are very few people who really ‘get’ subversive cross-stitch the way Stephanie does.” —Julie Jackson, founder of Subversive Cross Stitch The patterns, ‘bold and fierce’ indeed, will speak to stitchers who share Rohr’s spirit and convictions.” —Publishers Weekly “Standouts here include a folk-art inspired ‘Don’t Tell Me to Smile’ and a sweet, floral pattern that proclaims ‘A woman’s place is in the Revolution’ . . . Feminist Cross-Stitch is very much on-trend as a new generation discovers the joys of needlework.” —Booklist

Cross-stitch, one of the oldest forms of embroidery, is captivating today's crafters everywhere with its simplicity, charm, and exquisite designs. If you've never tried this masterful art, or are already experienced at this craft, X-Stitch will teach you everything you need to know-- and then some--to complete 19 incredible, easy-to-make-and-gorgeous-to-look-at cross-stitch projects. Varying in difficulty, and designed to appeal to both female and male stitchers, these projects offer a cool, modern take on a traditional art form. The reader will learn to master cross-stitch basics and fundamental techniques, get comfortable with materials and tools of the trade, read a cross-stitch pattern, identify the many established designs as well as create your own from scratch, and more.

CROSS-STITCH GOES WITCHY WITH DARK AND ELEGANT DESIGNS From spooky skulls to ghoulish graveyards, Lindsay Swearingen of Tusk and Cardinal gives cross-stitch a dark yet whimsical update. Curious creatures like phantom felines, legendary fixtures from folklore like Baba Yaga and all manner of haunted houses make the perfect subjects for these needlework masterpieces. Fun and easy to learn, cross-stitch is an art form that truly anybody can master. Lindsay gives you a crash course in the basics to ensure you have all the materials and techniques you need to start off on the right foot. Then, dive into her incredible patterns and stitch yourself some oddities that range from quirky to downright eerie. Anyone with an appreciation for the macabre will swoon for patterns like Lovers’ Graves, which features twin headstones and a heart-shaped weeping willow. Meanwhile, the ghosts, ghouls and ghastly bats of Trick or Treat and Haunted Wings are perfect pieces to hang on your wall to keep the spirit of Halloween in your home year-round. With moody tones, muted hues and spooky subjects, this collection of bewitching patterns makes it easy to add a little subversive charm to your cross-stitch repertoire.

Needlework is America's most popular craft, with about 38 million stitchers according to the Hobby Industry of America. Subversive Cross Stitch puts a 21st-century spin to this age-old art. Step-by-step instructions for 35 hilarious projects are sure to appeal to the savvy stitch-n-bitch generation.

Stitch for a greener future with this stunning collection of environment and nature focused designs from leading cross stitch designer Emma Congdon. Whether it’s a plea to save the bees, clean up the oceans, appreciate nature, or unplug from technology, this celebration of the green movement in thread will remind us of the need to come together to build a brighter future, one stitch at a time. Emma's iconic designs are universally loved by her fans who have bought over 40,000 of her patterns on Etsy, and who have set up a dedicated fan group on Facebook, where they share their work in progress and proud finishes. This collection features 20 exclusive designs, each with an easy-to-read full colour and symbol chart. Alongside the designs, Emma shares her thoughts and inspirations for each one, with a detailed materials list and instructions for stitching. Beginners to cross stitch will find a helpful guide to the stitches and techniques used – and the beauty of cross stitch is that if you can sew one cross you can sew all these designs! The designs range in size from mini hoops to larger scale samplers, so there are options to suit everyone – and they all share Emma's skill with colour, typography and design which have made her one of the world's best-loved cross stitch designers. Sentiments include: We don't inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children Pardon the weeds, we're feeding the bees Leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time Live gently on the Earth Never underestimate the difference you make The Earth has music for those who listen All good things are wild and free Take care of the Earth and she will take care of you Between two pines is a doorway to a new world The world is full of magic Cross Stitch for the Earth is printed on FSC paper, is recyclable, and every purchase includes a donation to Friends of the Earth, an environmental campaigning community dedicated to the wellbeing and protection of the natural world.