"Stitch it right the first time, every time"--Cover.

This is a book that all ages will be able to teach yourself how to cross stitch. Be patient with yourself to get started. I hope you will enjoy doing it as much as I do.

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.

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.

An eye-catching collection of 27 handmade, cross-stitched greeting cards and gift tags to craft and share with friends and family, this carefully selected assortment of holiday and special occasion items provides hours of stitching and paper-crafting enjoyment. Simple stitching instructions and charts combine with clear, comprehensive card-making instructions to make it easy for crafters of all skill levels to enjoy this creative adventure. A helpful Getting Started section contains basic information for cross-stitch and card-making tools, terminology, and techniques, and detailed finishing instructions with step-by-step photographs are included for each project. Create stylish, meaningful gifts all year round with these impressive beginning to intermediate patterns.

All the basics of this popular and time-tested method of embroidery are compiled here in a full-color, easy-to-understand format. The introduction covers tools and general techniques, while a series of questions and answers outlines all the stitching basics, from cross-stitching with more than one color of floss to creating specialty stitches. Twenty delightful projects, geared to the beginner, will help you master each skill. Make a Bless This Home sign with a fundamental cross-stitch. Embellish a Native American-inspired Lone Wolf embroidery with beading. As you work through the chapters, the knowledge you gain will build upon itself, eventually enabling you to tackle any cross-stitch project.