The Cross Stitch Podcast: Recent Episodes
Hannah Braniff | Cross Stitcher and Creator at Hannah Hand Makes
Welcome to the podcast for cross stitchers and cake eaters. My name is Hannah; I am a UK cross stitcher, the creator of and at Hannah Hand Makes and your host!
This show aims to build a cross stitch community and help teach you the lovely art of cross stitch. In the show you will find some tutorials and hints and tips around cross stitch and I will be chatting about the benefits of cross stitch, any Stitch Along's (SALs) I am running and sharing my favourite cross stitch pattern or kit of the week.
In this episode, I share how to set the mood with you're stitching this Summer, which adds an extra layer of relaxation to your hobby time.
Read the show notes for this episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/setting-the-stitching-mood-this-summer/
In this episode, I share a quick tip from Joyce: store projects in tote bags.
You can read the show notes for this post here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/store-projects-in-tote-bags/
And join the Cross Stitch Club here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/the-cross-stitch-club
In this episode, I share why colour is important when cross stitching and how your mood/seasons/weather can affect what colours and designs you are drawn to.
You can find the post for this episode here and it includes photos of some of the designs I share in today's episode: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/why-colour-is-important-when-cross-stitching/
In this episode I share 10 ways cross stitch has changed and improved my life.
Join the new SAL here.
And get 10% off with code "PODCAST"
Read more about the Secret Garden SAL here:
https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/secret-garden-stitch-along
Join the Cross Stitch Club here:
https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/the-cross-stitch-club
In this episode I share some questions you can ask yourself to help you decide what pattern to stitch next if you are overwhelmed by all there is to choose from.
hannahhandmakes.com
Listen to the cross stitch and photography episode here (it's old but full of tips!): https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/s2e6/
In this episode, I share the books I've been reading and loving lately.
You can find links to all of the books mentioned here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/books-ive-been-reading-lately-october-2024/
In this episode, I share a quick tip to help you cross stitch more by flipping the order you do things when it comes to cross stitch.
Find the show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/flip-the-switch/
In this episode, I share 5 sosy, Autumn TV shows to watch while you cross stitch.
You can read the blog post for this episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/5-cosy-autumn-tv-shows/
Listen to all the details of the brand new That Time of Year Christmas Cross Stitch Along.
Join the SAL here
In this episode, I share some steps and ideas on how to make a cross stitch routine.
Read the blog post for this episode and download your free PDF here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/how-to-make-a-cross-stitch-routine/
In this episode, I share my current cross stitch routine. I'm not sharing when exactly I cross stitch but more about what projects I stitch and when.
You can read the blog post for this episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/my-current-cross-stitch-routine/
And join The Cross Stitch Club here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/the-cross-stitch-club
In this episode, I share a quick tip I have been trying to help me cross stitch more, particularly in the evening.
You can find the show notes/blog post for this episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/quick-tip-to-cross-stitch-more/
And DM me on Instagram for any topics you want to see discussed on the podcast in September. Have an amazing Summer/Winter and I'll be back soon.
In this episode, I share books I have read and loved lately (April - July 2024).
You can find all the books mentioned here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/books-ive-been-reading-lately-july-2024/
In this episode, I am sharing thoughts on something Sarah (a Cross Stitch Club member) mentioned in one of her comments about being a passive vs an active stitcher. I share what my take on these two are and when you might need to be one over the other.
You can read the blog post/show notes for this episode here:
In this episode, I share 5 summer rituals to help you seamlessly transition to a new season.
Find the full show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/5-summer-rituals/
In this episode, I am sharing 10 fiction audiobooks I have listened to and loved over the year and are perfect to listen to when cross stitching.
You can get all of the links/find the books from this episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/10-fiction-audiobooks/
In this episode, I share 5 tips for when you're overwhelmed by your hobby and I share some of your thoughts and tips too.
You can read the show notes and get all of the links here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/5-tips-for-when-youre-overwhelmed-by-your-hobby/
In this episode, I am sharing books I have read and loved lately (January - March 2024).
You can find links to all the books here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/what-ive-been-reading-lately-march-2024/
In this episode, I share 7 more things I wish I knew before I started cross stitching.
You can find all the links mentioned in today's episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/things-i-wish-i-knew-before-i-started-cross-stitching/
In this epsiode, I share some details about the brand new year-long Storybook Stitch Along.
You can find more details and join here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/storybook-stitch-along
In this episode, I share where to store your cross stitch supplies.
You can read the show notes and find the photos of my storage here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/where-to-store-your-cross-stitch-supplies/
In this episode, I share 5 spring rituals that you can apply to cross stitch and your other hobbies.
You can find all the links mentioned and the post for this episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/5-spring-rituals/
In this episode, I share some pros and cons of stitching small and large designs and when you might choose each.
You can find the show notes for today's episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/small-vs-large-cross-stitch-designs/
In this episode, I share 9 lessons I learnt when I set a 100-book goal in 2023.
You can get any links from today's episode and read the show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/9-lessons-from-setting-a-100-book-goal/
In this episode I am sharing day 5 of the 10 minute cross stitch challenge: glimmers.
You can read the show notes/get links for today here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/10-minute-cross-stitch-challenge-day-5/
In this episode, I share day 4 of the 10 minute cross stitch challenge: organising your projects.
You can read the show notes for today's episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/10-minute-cross-stitch-challenge-day-4/
And join The Cross Stitch Club here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/the-cross-stitch-club
In this episode, I share day 3 of the 10 minute cross stitch challenge: routines vs going with the flow.
And join The Cross Stitch Club here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/the-cross-stitch-club
You can read the show notes for this episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/10-minute-cross-stitch-challenge-day-3/
In this episode, I share day 2 of the 10 minute cross stitch challenge; 1 project at a time vs many projects.
You can read the show notes and get any links for today's episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/cross-stitch-challenge-day-2/
And join the Cross Stitch Club here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/the-cross-stitch-club
In this episode, I am sharing day 1 of the 10 minute cross stitch challenge.; 10 minutes vs 5 stitches a day.
You can read the notes and grab any links from today's episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/cross-stitch-challenge-day-1/
If you like coming together for some timed stitching then you will love the cross stitch club as we do this many times a month. You can join here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/the-cross-stitch-club
In this episode, I am sharing books I have read and loved lately (September - December 2023).
You can find all the books I mentioned today here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/what-ive-been-reading-lately-december-2023/
In this episode, I am sharing hobbies I'm planning this Christmas season to help keep me calm and stress-free.
You can read the blog post for this episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/hobbies-im-planning-this-christmas-season/
You can shop the Black Friday Sale here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/black-friday-sale-2023
In this episode I am talking all things books with Gab and Louise from The Cross Stitch Club.
You can find a list of all the books we mentioned here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/book-chat-with-louise-and-gab/
In this episode, I am sharing 5 ways to stay stress free this season and make sure you are taking time for yourself and your hobbies.
You can read the blog post and get all the links mentioned below:
https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/stay-stress-free-this-season/
In this episode, I am sharing my tips on how to plan your Christmas projects to make sure no WIP gets left behind.
You can read the blog post here which also includes the link to download your free planning sheets: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/plan-your-christmas-projects/
In this episode, I am chatting all about cross stitch software and when it might be time for you to invest in it (and when I don't recommend it).
You can read the full blog post for this episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/should-you-get-cross-stitch-software/
And get my PC Stitch Mini Course here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/pc-stitch-basics
Kawaii Cross Stitch Book* (affiliate link).
In this episode, I am sharing books I have read and loved lately (July-September 2023).
You can find all the books mentioned in this blog post: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/reading-lately-october-2023/
In this episode, I am sharing how to plan Autumn hobbies and why you should.
You can read the blog post/notes for this episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/how-to-plan-autumn-hobbies/
In this episode, I am sharing 10 must-have craft supplies and tools for finishing your cross stitch projects off.
Read the blog post/see the photos here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/10-must-have-craft-supplies-tools-for-finishing/
You can join the House Flip SAL here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/house-flip-2023-stitch-along-small-page
In this post, I am sharing 10 reasons to use your local library. I speak about the library a lot on here, but I still don't think many people use their local library. I know a few people who read as much as I do, but they never think to go to the library. You might be missing out!
Read the full post here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/10-reasons-to-use-your-local-library/
You can peek at the design and join the SAL here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/woodland-wander-stitch-along-small-page
In this episode, I am sharing 10 finishing ideas for your cross stitch designs. I don't have tutorials for them all yet, but keep an eye on the blog for them coming soon. This is like my "to-do" list of things to try and make the rest of the year.
You can view the photos and find links to anything I've spoken about today here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/10-finishing-ideas-for-cross-stitch-designs/
In this episode, I am sharing books I have read and loved lately (Spring/Summer 2023).
You can find links to all of the books here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/what-ive-been-reading-lately-july-2023/
In this episode, I am sharing reasons why you should stop feeling guilty for taking time for yourself and your hobbies and how you can make this happen.
You can find all the links for today's episode and the blog post here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/stop-feeling-guilty/
In this episode, I am sharing how to plan your Summer reading list and sharing some book lists with you at the end including my top 10 favourite Summer books (so far).
You can find all the links and notes for today's episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/plan-you-summer-reading-list/
In this episode, I am sharing some tips on how to get/use accountability in cross stitch.
Find the full post here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/accountability-in-cross-stitch/
In this episode, I am sharing some tips on how to organise your WIP projects.
You can find all the links and blog post for this episode here.
Join the Cross Stitch Club here.
Find all the links for the books I talk about here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/what-ive-been-reading-lately-may-2023/
Grab the links and your free PDF here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/100-days-of-cross-stitching-challenge/
In this episode, I am sharing some tips about what to do if you find yourself in a cross stitch rut.
You can read the full blog post and get the links here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/cross-stitch-rut/
In this episode, I am sharing some ideas on planning a crafting retreat day that you could run this Spring with friends.
You can read the full blog post here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/plan-a-crafting-retreat-day/
In this episode, I am sharing books I have read and loved lately.
Find all the books mentioned today here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/what-ive-been-reading-lately-january
In this podcast episode, I am sharing 3 random things that are helping me with my stitching right now, especially as we are in the Winter months.
Listen to my new podcast Mind Your Soul today!
In this episode, I share why I wrote my brand new book Cross Stitch One Oh One: 101 things every stitcher needs to know about cross stitch.
You can buy my book here.
In this episode, I interview Emma from The Makers Marks and we talk all things needlepoint!
You can check out Emma's website here and book here*. (Affiliate link, I may earn a small commission if you purchase through this link).
In this episode, I interview Louise from inside the Cross Stitch Club (which is currently open for new members to join!) and we talk all things cross stitch from starting stitching in lockdown 2020, how to fit stitching in and the guilt you can feel as a mum sometimes.
Follow Louise on Instagram @louiserebecca13
In this episode, I interview Laura from Cotton and Clay and we talk all things cross stitch from needleminders to finishing projects and the importance of having a hobby.
You can check out Laura's Etsy store here.
In this episode, I am sharing books I have read and loved lately.
You can find all the books I mentioned in today's episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/what-ive-been-reading-lately-s3e66/
In this episode, I am talking about how you might judge yourself when you sit down with your cross stitch and I want you to ask yourself if you're really relaxing when stitching?
You can read the full notes/blog post for this episode here.
In this episode, I am sharing some solutions to your biggest cross stitch struggles right now such as confidence, backstitching and stitching on black aida.
You can find the show notes and links mentioned in today's episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/your-biggest-cross-stitch-struggles-part-3/
You can join the Cross Stitch Club here.
You can read the show notes for this episode here.
You can sign up for the 10 minute cross stitch challenge here.
In this episode, I am sharing some solutions to your biggest cross stitch struggles right now. These struggles come from a recent Instagram post I did so if you ever want your question or struggle answered make sure you're following me over there. @hannahhandmakes
Or you can just send it to hannah@hannahhandmakes.com with the subject line as "podcast question".
In this episode, I am answering some of your recent questions about cross stitch such as hoop tension, how to work on multiple projects at once and how to "stitch over 1". You can join the Bloom 22 SAL here.
And listen to the theme day's episode here.
Find the full blog post for today's episode here.
In this episode, I am answering some of your recent questions about cross stitch such as how to store supplies and tips on converting a photo to a pattern.
You can read the full blog post here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/cross-stitch-questions-feb22/
You can join the Moon Cycle Self Care Programme here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/moon-cycle-self-care
You can join the challenge here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/self-care-challenge-sign-up
You can sign up for the challenge so you don't miss the updates here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/self-care-challenge-sign-up
You can sign up for the challenge so you don't miss the updates here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/self-care-challenge-sign-up
You can see the colours, read more about the SAL and join all right here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/mind-and-soul
In this episode, I am sharing something I do every year; take a Christmas Self Care Day.
You can read the blog post here.
I also chat about my brand new programme - Moon Cycle Self Care which closes its doors tomorrow!
In this episode, I am sharing how I plan my week so that I can fit lots of hobbies in my week as well as all the other things that need to get done.
You can get the full show notes and links mentioned here.
In this episode, I am sharing 7 non-fiction audiobooks you can listen to when stitching.
You can read the blog post here.
In this episode, I am sharing 3 tips for stitching with DMC neon and glow in the dark thread.
You can read the blog post and get the links mentioned in the episode here.
In this episode, I am sharing 3 reasons it's important to have a hobby.
You can read the full show notes/blog post here.
In this episode, I am sharing 10 favourites of the year so far. These things range from cross stitch supplies (of course) to TV shows.
Read the show notes and grab the links I talk about today here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/favourites-of-2021-so-far/
In this episode, I share my opinions on the differences between hobbies, interests, exercise and work and why it's important to separate the 4 out.
Read the show notes/blog post here.
Links mentioned
- Manifestation Babe Academy (16 week programme)
- Kathrin Zenkina's podcast episode on purpose
In this episode, I am chatting with Clare Albans from Hello Hooray blog about everything from book deals to picking colours for your project!
The Happy Stitch Project
DMC Colour Palette Guide
In this episode, I am sharing some tips on what to do with excess aida when stitching a large design and you have a lot of excess aida/evenweave hanging down around you.
You can read the full show notes here.
In this episode, I am explaining all of the different DMC threads for cross sitch that you can get and use.
You can read the full show notes and grab all the links mentioned here.
In this episode, I am sharing some of the reasons I stopped selling cross stitch kits and what I'm doing instead - I'm so excited to share this with you!
You can view the planned stitch alongs of the year here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/stitchalong
The Cosy Cross Stitch Corner 2021 Mystery Cross Stitch Along (SAL) is coming and this time you are making a clock to hang up in your favourite place to stitch!
You can join this new SAL here.
In this episode, I am sharing 10 ideas for finished cross stitch pieces that you can sell. I am sharing unique and simple things you can make and sell, not just the standard hoop or sampler.
You can read the full show notes here: S3E44
In this episode, I am sharing 7 things I wish I knew before I started a business so that my journey could have been a little smoother and easier.
You can get the links for this episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/things-i-wish-i-knew-before-i-started-a-business/
In this episode, I am sharing 7 ways you can make money from cross stitch and you can apply this to any other craft hobbies you may have as well.
You can find the links mentioned in this episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/ways-to-make-money-from-cross-stitch/
In this episode, I am talking all about how I started a business (this one - Hannah Hand Makes) and why I wanted to start one in the first place.
You can read the full show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/how-i-started-a-business/
In this episode, I am talking all about how to design cross stitch patterns with my guest Nicola from the Mindful Stitching Company.
You can read the show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/how-to-design-cross-stitch-patterns/
In this episode, I am sharing some tips and opinions about copyright and cross stitch. This is big, but important topic and I only scratch the surface here, but hopefully, it helps and informs you.
You can get the links and transcript here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/copyright-and-cross-stitch/
As it is the week of Valentine's Day I am sharing 14 of the reasons that I love cross stitch!
You can read the full show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/14-reasons-why-i-love-cross-stitch/
In this episode, I am sharing 12 tips for your daily well-being that you can incorporate into your everyday life.
You can find the links mentioned in the episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/tips-for-daily-well-being/
In this episode, I am sharing 2 lessons my kids taught me in 2020 about having a hobby for ourselves.
You can read the full blog post here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/lessons-about-having-a-hobby/
In this episode, I am sharing my updated cross stitch and reading routine and how I choose whether to cross stitch or read and fit them both into my days.
You can read the full blog post here which includes all the links to what I talk about today.
Today I am sharing the details all about my next stitch-a-long which starts in February but you can get early bird pricing this week only!
You can join the SAL here: https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/heart-of-the-home-sal
In this episode, I am sharing some tips on how you can find ways to make cross stitch a habit during your busy day.
I am not telling you to stitch at X time for X amount of minutes every day. We all lead such different lives and so hopefully this episode just helps you find ways you can build a cross stitch habit into your unique life situation.
In this episode, I am asking the question when do you cross stitch? And sharing some answers that people shared in my Facebook group.
You can read the full post with the links mentioned here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/?p=4589
In this episode, I am chatting with my sister all about our favourites of 2020; everything from our favourite beauty product to our favourite way to stay well throughout lockdown.
In this episode, I am sharing 5 finishing ideas for your Christmas cross stitch designs.
You can read the full blog post here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/finishing-ideas-for-christmas-cross-stitch/
In this post, I am going to share 10 fun and festive supplies for Christmas cross stitching. I love crafting over Christmas and of course, cross stitch is my favourite! These are the supplies that I always have out over Christmas.
You can read the full blog post/show notes here.
In this episode, I am talking all about enjoying the process when you are cross stitching and not worrying or comparing yourself to others.
You can read the full show notes here.
In this episode, I am answering some of the questions you have been asking me lately. Some are about cross stitch but most are about starting a business and what that entails.
In this episode, I am sharing 8 cross stitch books that you can gift this Christmas. Cross stitch books make great gifts for the stitcher in your life, or you can use the books yourself to stitch gifts for your loved ones.
You can read the full show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/cross-stitch-books-you-can-gift-this-christmas/
Today I am sharing a time-sensitive bundle sale. Please note this is an affiliate link so I earn a comission if you buy the bundle.
Get your Creative Projects at Home Bundle here - https://ultimatebundles.com/sale/chpb2020-main/#a_aid=5f5910ecb5afb&a_bid=b4a427d9 * until Friday 20th October 2020.
In this episode, I am sharing 10 tools to make cross stitch easier and help you along your cross stitch journey.
You can view the full show notes here.
In this episode, I am going to talk about how to get cosy with cross stitch and how cross stitch and getting cosy can lead to more peace and calm during your days.
You can find the full show notes over at Hannah Hand Makes website.
In this episode, I am talking about cross stitch theme days and how you can use these themes to fit in more cross stitch into your busy day!
You can join the Christmas SAL here.
Follow me on Instagram!
Enrol in the how to cross stitch course - https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/how-to-course
The Countdown to Christmas Cross Stitch-a-Long (SAL) 2020 is coming and this time we are making an advent calendar!
You can join the SAL here - https://hannahhandmakes.lpages.co/countdown-to-christmas-2020-stitch-a-long
In this post, I am sharing what a stitch-a-long (SAL) is and the 5 reasons why you might want to join one.
Read the full show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/blog/what-is-a-stitch-a-long-and-5-reasons-you-should-join-one/
The podcast is taking a short break throughout the rest of July and August to give me chance to catch up on all the episode ideas I have planned out. And of course, take an actual break while the kids are home.
I hope you have a lovely, relaxing Summer and I may pop back in with some bonus episodes for you (if my kids stay quiet enough for me to record haha!)
In this post, I am answering some questions that I got on Instagram about starting and running a craft and/or cross stitch business.
You can view the full show notes for this episode here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/craft-business-questions-and-answers
And grab your 40 free Etsy listings here: https://etsy.me/38y1HxC
In this post, I am sharing 5 things to do when you lose your motivation to cross stitch.
As always, these are just my own ideas and opinions and if you don't like them, you do you and just ignore. But hopefully, you find a nugget of helpful information here.
This episode is a bit different from my others, and I'm sharing my thoughts on the importance of cross stitch and community. And I am also asking if you have any stories about cross stitch that you would like to share right here on the blog. If you are interested you can sign up here and I will be in touch.
Music: Carefree Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
In this episode, I am talking about the links between Cross Stitch, Meditation, and Mindfulness and sharing some tips on how we can all reduce our stress using these 3 things.
In this post, I’m going to share 7 tips on how to have a creative retreat when you can’t leave your home and actually make it happen.
You can read the full show notes and grab all the links mentioned here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/how-to-have-a-creative-retreat-at-home
In this episode, I’m sharing how to prepare your cross stitch project before you even start stitching.
You can read the full show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/blog/preparing-for-cross-stitch/
In this episode, I’m sharing how to prepare your cross stitch project before you even start stitching.
You can read the full show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/blog/preparing-for-cross-stitch/
In this post/episode I am sharing 5 tips to stay calm during chaos. With the coronavirus outbreak, it is more important than ever that we find these ways to keep ourselves calm.
These 5 ways are all things we can do at home no matter our circumstances and they are things we can continue to do after the pandemic is over and we still have daily life stresses.
Read the full show notes here.
The world pandemic has us all anxious and worried.
This is why we need our hobbies now more than ever!
Don’t let the stress take over!
How would you like to join a stitch-a-long that is all about adding more peace and less stress to your days?
Join the Peace, Calm + Happiness SAL here.
In this post, I am answering some questions that you, the lovely community, have been asking.
You can read the full show notes here: Q&A
In this post, I am answering some questions that you, the lovely community, have been asking.
You can read the full show notes here: Q&A
In this post, I am sharing 3 tips for stitching with DMC
variations and variegated thread.
You can join the Galaxy SAL here.
And read the cross stitch storage hoop tutorial here.
In this epsiode, I am sharing 5 tips and tricks for stitching on black aida.
You can join the Galaxy SAL here.
Welcome to another episode of the cross stitch podcast! This week we are talking all about the reasons why we cross stitch.
I purposely put this episode out because it’s Valentine’s Day soon and I just thought this would be a great way to show our love for cross stitch.
You can read the full show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/?p=4257
In this episode, I am sharing some tips and tricks about how to do French Knots and Fractional Stitches in cross stitch.
You can enroll in the mini-class here where I teach you how to do French knots and Fractionals on both aida and evenweave.
Join the Galaxy SAL here - https://hannahhandmakes.com/products/space-stitch-a-long-2020/
Or read more about it here - https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/blog/the-galaxy-cross-stitch-a-long-2020/
In this episode, I am sharing my Winter Reading List for the year 2020!
You can read the full show notes, with all the links to the book here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/winter-reading-list-2020
In this episode, I’m going to share my opinions on whether you should worry about unfinished cross stitch projects.
- This episode of The Cross Stitch Podcast is sponsored by my signature How to Cross Stitch Course for Beginners which takes you through everything you need to know to learn to cross stitch step-by-step.
- Become a Patreon of Hannah Hand Makes and get some rewards!
- Join my Facebook group with over 1500 other stitchers.
- Should You Worry About the Back of Your Cross Stitch?
- Cross Stitch Clock Tutorial
- Cross Stitch Lampshade Tutorial
- Cross Stitch Banner Tutorial
- 5 Cross Stitch Finishing Ideas
Read the full show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/unfinished-cross-stitch-projects
In this post, I am sharing 13 lessons I learned from the book Big Magic from Elizabeth Gilbert. I love this book and try to read it every 6 months because I always take something new away from this book. And today I'm sharing some with you!
Sponsored by my How to Cross Stitch Course for Beginners. Enroll here: https://hannahhandmakesacademy.teachable.com/p/how-to-cross-stitch-for-beginners
Read the full show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/lessons-learned-from-big-magic
Follow my Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/hannahhandmakes1/
Join my Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hannahshandmakers
Buy the book here (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/2q4Crgz
In this post, I am sharing my 7 tips on teaching kids how to cross stitch and sharing my reasons why I think it's good to teach kids cross stitch.
When I say kids, I don't necessarily mean it has to be your child. Maybe you work with kids, you foster, you're planning kids, you have nieces, nephews or grandchildren, this is just some advice on what we can do make learning cross stitch even more fun and enjoyable (for you as well as the kids).
Read the full post here:https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/teaching-kids-how-to-cross-stitch
Sign up to the newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/dy8g4z
Join the Christmas SAL here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/products/north-pole-stitch-a-long/
In this episode, I am sharing my 2019 Autumn Reading List and update you on my Summer Reading List; what I managed to read and my favourite books.
Read the full post with links to all the books here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/autumn-reading-list-2019
In this post, I'm going to share my opinions on whether you should worry about the back of your cross stitch. And hopefully, it gives you a little encouragement if you're just starting out.
Read the full show notes here:
https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/blog/the-back-of-cross-stitch/
The next Christmas Stitch-a-Long has launched!
You can buy the PDFs or full kit for The North Pole SAL here - https://hannahhandmakes.com/products/north-pole-stitch-a-long/
View my "Retro Christmas Ideas" Pinterest board here - https://www.pinterest.co.uk/hannahhandmakes/retro-christmas-ideas/
Join the Facebook group here - https://www.facebook.com/groups/hannahshandmakers/
In this episode, I am sharing 5 finishing ideas for your cross stitch project.
- Make a lampshade
- Make a canvas frame
- Stitch on your clothes
- Make a banner
- Make a mug cosy
Full show notes will be available on hannahhandmakes.com next week.
In this episode, I’m going to compare 2 of my favourite collections of thread; DMC Light Effects and Étoile. Light Effects is a metallic thread and Étoile is a glitter one.
Is Light Effects or Étoile thread easier to stitch with? Which has the better range of colours? Is Light Effects or Étoile more sparkly? I answer all these questions in this episode as well as sharing my favourite of the 2!
Head over here to read the full show notes/blog post.
In this post, I'll be sharing my Summer reading list for 2019 and going over what I read in Spring 2019.
Head over to the show notes for links to all of the books I talk about in today's episode: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/motherhood-and-creativity/summer-reading-list-2019-2/
In this post, I’m going to share my best tips for travelling with your cross stitch projects! I'll answer questions such as "can I take my scissors on a plane?" and "what is the best travel bag for cross stitch?"
I also share this month's pattern of the month which is a 4th of July one!
Read the full post and show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/travelling-with-cross-stitch
In this post, I am going to share what evenweave is, how to cross stitch on evenweave and whether you should choose aida or evenweave for your cross stitch!
View the full show notes here: https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/how-to-cross-stitch-on-evenweave/
Join the stitch-a-long here -
https://hannahhandmakes.com/products/fantasy-fairytale-stitch-a-long/
Enrol in the course here:
https://hannahhandmakesacademy.teachable.com/p/how-to-cross-stitch-for-beginners
Download your free cross stitch materials cheat sheet via this blog post:
https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/how-to-cross-stitch-course-for-beginners/
In this episode/blog post, I am sharing 5 easy ways you can get creativity flowing and they're all things that can actually make us slightly bored or ie let our mind rest.
If you are new to cross stitch why not check out my brand new How to Cross Stitch Course for Beginners that's launching 29.04.19?
The 5 Ways: 1. Go for a walk 2. Turn off your phone 3. Clean/de-clutter 4. Craft! 5. Daydream
Extra Links and Resources:
- How to Cross Stitch Course for Beginners
- 7 Tips for Reading More
- Sign up to my Email list
- My Facebook Community
In this episode, I’m talking all about my own cross stitch routine as well as sharing your routines and the reasons it might be beneficial to have one.
Key links and resources:
- Sign up via iTunes
- Sign up to the newsletter
- My Facebook group
- 5 Ways to Cross Stitch More
- Hints and Tips to Make You a Professional Cross Stitcher
- 5 Tips for Living a Multi-Passionate Life
A bit of a bonus for my birthday month; 27 facts about me. There is nothing about cross stitch in here, just 27 random things about me.
The normal cross stitch episode will be back next week!
Today I'm talking about the 5 take aways I got from the book "What Do I Do When I Want to Do Everything" by Barbara Sher.
These 5 practical tips will help you if you want to live a multi-passionate life.
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Realise you have more time than you think you do.
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Set up your day on your terms
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Create a scanner day book
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Organise your projects
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Display your finished work
Click here to read the blog post that goes along with the episode.
Join my Hello Spring Stitch-A-Long 2019!
You can purchase the pattern or kit here.
Or read more about how the SAL works here.
Welcome back to another series of The Cross Stitch Podcast! This series is all about getting unstuck. I'll be sharing resources I use for getting my creative mojo back and how to do it when you’re so busy!
These resources will mostly be books, but sometimes it's an action I do. Now you don't need to be a reader to continue listening; I am just sharing the lessons and tips I have got from certain books. But if you do want to read the book for a point of reference I'll be sharing it at the end of podcast episodes, if the month after talks about a book.
Next month I am going to be talking about the book “What Do I Do When I Want to Do Everything” (*affiliate link). If you want to read this before I chat about it I highly recommend it. I can’t wait to be back next month to talk about this book and hopefully share something exciting! See you then!
Welcome back to another series of The Cross Stitch Podcast! This series is all about getting unstuck. I'll be sharing resources I use for getting my creative mojo back and how to do it when you’re so busy!
These resources will mostly be books, but sometimes it's an action I do. Now you don't need to be a reader to continue listening; I am just sharing the lessons and tips I have got from certain books. But if you do want to read the book for a point of reference I'll be sharing it at the end of podcast episodes, if the month after talks about a book.
Next month I am going to be talking about the book “What Do I Do When I Want to Do Everything” (*affiliate link). If you want to read this before I chat about it I highly recommend it. I can’t wait to be back next month to talk about this book and hopefully share something exciting! See you then!
Buy the full 'Tis The Season cross stitch kit here - https://hannahhandmakes.com/products/tis-the-season-cross-stitch-kit
This was the design used in my 2018 Christmas SAL. Keep an ear out for future SALs which will be announced on the podcast.
In this episode I'm talking all about how I plan and organise my craft/cross stitch projects and actually finish them ... well usually anyway.
Read the full show notes here:
https://hannahhandmakes.com/blogs/podcast/how-to-plan-and-organise-your-craft-projects
In this podcast episode I tell you all about how you can personalise your cross stitch pattern.
Personalising a cross stitch pattern can seem quite daunting but it adds such a lovely touch to your work and makes a thougtful gift. Hopefully these steps help break it down for you.
You will need: * Graph paper * A pattern to personalise (you can download the Teepee pattern used in this example) * An alphabet pattern, which you can also download * A pencil and rubber
Pattern of the month This months pattern is from Witchy Stitcher on Etsy and I knew as soon as I seen it, that it had to feature on Octobers podcast. It's called I Practice Stitch Craft and if stitched on 14 count aida measures 6.07 x 5.71 inches.
It has the words, with a skull, some bobbins and a crescent moon on it. She includes 2 versions of the pattern so you can stitch it on black or white aida. This is a great Halloween pattern to stitch this month.
Key Links and resources * My newsletter sign up form * My Cross Stitch Project Planner
The physical planner is now available for pre-order! You can buy your own personalised or non-personalised planner or give it as a gift this Christmas. There is a video of the inside of the planner on the sales page and you can join my Facebook group for regular updates.
In this episode I am talking all about the DMC colour palettes I have put together, and sharing the actual thread numbers that I use.
Have you ever looked at a photo on Instagram of beautiful DMC threads and wondered what the colours were? And you sometimes feel a little funny about asking what they are? I am guilty of this; both putting the photo on with no numbers showing, and wondering about other people's palettes. Why do we hide the numbers? I am breaking that trend today and sharing my most used palettes and sharing where you can find some colour palette inspiration.
I'm sharing 12 palettes:
- Rainbow
- My logo
- Halloween
- Autumn
- Traditional Christmas
- Winter Wonderland
- Cosy Christmas
- Valentine' Day
- Easter/Spring
- British Summer Time
- Tropical Fiesta
- Pastels
Pattern of the Month
With Halloween just around the corner, I am recommending my new Halloween Cat Cross Stitch Kit and pattern, which you can download on Etsy.
The Christmas SAL kit has now launched! We start stitching in my Facebook group on the 21.10.18. I hope to see you stitching along with us!
The launch of the A4 cross stitch project printable planner! You can get it as an instant download on Etsy or or a personalised one on the website. It's 100 pages and includes everything for your planning needs such as space to write your project goals, places to plan each pattern, take notes and write your shopping lists. You can also download the individual planning sheets, rather than getting the full planner. And these are free if you sign up to the newsletter!
Keep an eye (and ear) our for the launch of the physical planner coming September 2018.
In this episode I'm chatting all about my favourite brands for cross stitch supplies.
Where to buy *Affiliate link, but I only ever recommend products I use myself.
Sew and So
Cloud Craft
Hobby Craft*
Willow Fabrics
Your local craft stores.
Key Links and Resources How To Cross Stitch With Light Effects Thread blog post
Podcast Episode Guide
The Top 6 Things Needed For Cross Stitch blog post
It's A Material World blog post
Stitch People's Pattern Book
In this episode I share my thoughts on the benefits of cross stitch.
Some benefits include:
- Getting lost mentally
- Helping with dieting
- Giving you a sense of satisfaction
- Being part of a community
- It's easy
- It's time away from the screen
Key links and resources *Affiliate link. I may earn a small commission if you click this link but I never recommend anything that I don't use or read myself!
- My Facebook group
- Scrappy Little Nobody - Anna Kendrick*
- The Creative Habit - Twyla Tharp*
- Sign up to Hannah Hand Makes newsletter
- This months pattern - In The Jungle
- Shop my cross stitch kits
In this episode/blog post I am sharing all of my knowledge about taking photos of your cross stitch and needle craft pieces of work.
- Setting up your photo
- Backgrounds
- Props
- Camera/phone settings
- Editing
Recommendation of the month I get a lot of my photography inspiration from Instagram so today, instead of a pattern of the month I'm going to recommend 5 Instagram accounts I love.
- Holly Booth - a professional photographer who takes awesome lifestyle photos.
- Cloud Craft - a clever and inspirational feed full of needle craft supplies.
- Knitty Knotts - a cosy and warm feed that makes me feel homely and I just want to curl up with a cup of tea and cross stitch.
- Hello Hooray Blog - Clare's feed is just full of fun and colour and always puts a smile on my face.
- Devon Sun Yarns - I love seeing the seasons change on Daisy's feed and how her yarn colours change with each one.
Key links and resources *Affiliate link. If you click this link I may receive a small commission but I only ever recommend something I have used or read myself.
Tea Break Photography Podcast
Foam Boards from Hobbycraft
Capture By Lucy for back drops
Snapseed App for iPhone
PicMonkey App
Better Than Before book by Gretchen Rubin*
In this episode I will be chatting all about my process of making a cross stitch kit, using my Little Llama Cross Stitch Kit as an example.
What you will hear: I chat about the idea that creativity meaning problem solving.
My process for making a cross stitch kit, from the sketch to finished hoop.
This year's Summer Stitch Along that will run from 10th June 2018 - 12th August 2018.
This month isn't quite a pattern of the month but a WIP bag! I seen these bags on @coffeeandmaking Instagram feed and knew I had to have one (or 3), even though I sell WIP myself because these are amazing. They're from Sarah Ashford Studio on Etsy and cost just £7 or 3 for £20. They're see through and large enough for an 8" hoop and on the front are vinyl words such as stitch, WIP, magic happening.
Key Links And Resources Little Llama Cross Stitch Kit
Herding Tigers book
Less House More Home Pattern
All About The Stitch Along
WIP bags
Hannahs Hand Makers Facebook Group
In this episode I'm talking about the things I wish I knew about before I started cross stitching. Some of them might seem quite obvious but if you are a beginner these may be quite new to you.
This months comments from you:
@trufflemoo via Instagram commented; "I'm an accountant by day and a cross stitcher by night. It's a great way to unwind. I love using my creative side to make new designs and in the process of opening up an Etsy shop to see if other people like them too!"
The 7 Things
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Not to pull so hard when you are making your "X".
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That there are different counts of aida and what this means.
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To stitch contrasting colours of aida and thread on 16 count or higher aida.
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That you can buy cross stitch pattern software.
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That thread conditioner existed.
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That needle minders were actually a valuable addition to my supplies (and a pretty one too!)
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You can use a trick to cut your thread to the correct lengths.
Pattern of the month
This month's pattern is from Country Magic Stitch on Etsy and is 2 patterns in 1 download; "But First Coffee" and "But First Tea". It is a huge, black coffee cup with a bunch of flowers in and it has those 2 quotes on the mug. it uses 29 DMC colours and if stitched on 14 count aida it measures 10 x 10.4 inches. This pattern gives me a Gilmore Girls feeling and is one I want to stitch myself for the kitchen.
Key Links and Resources
The Cross Stitch Podcast newsletter
PCStitch
My Facebook group
Koru Clay Studio Etsy store
Heart shaped needle minders
Cloud Craft
Pattern of the Month
Subscribe via iTunes
Music by:
Carefree Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
In this episode I talk about the 5 most popular reasons for not wanting to cross stitch and solutions to help you over come them.
What you will hear:
I can’t afford it
I hear you! Sometimes it's easy to spend our money on the essentials (food, rent, clothes for the kids but not yourself) and less so to spend it on a treat for yourself. I'm not going to go into why my cross stitch kits are the prices that they are, but if you want to you can read more about the materials used in my kits. I'm also not going to tell you how much you need a cross stitch kit in your life. I know they're not an essential (unless you're a cross stitch fanatic like me) but you can read all about the benefits of cross stitch if you would like to know more about them.
Instead, I'm going to try and help you afford it. For example, I (as well as other cross stitch kit sellers) have various selling platforms; my website, Not On The High Street (NOTHS), Etsy and Folksy. Have a look around and see if there are any sales on these platforms; not everyone runs sales on every platform. For example, my sales are usually just on my website or Etsy. And of course there are high street shops that sell cross stitch kits, as well as Cloud Craft and Sew and So (two of my favourites). These shops and retailers run their own sales throughout the year.
Keep your eye on social media to see if there are any discounts especially around particular occasions sure as Black Friday, Bank Holidays etc.
Joining my Facebook Group is the best place to hear about any specials I'm running and I hold regular giveaways in here too!
You could ask for a kit as a present. Maybe you have a birthday or anniversary coming up or Valentine's/Christmas/Mother's Day etc. And if you can buy the kit on Amazon, pop it on your wish list.
Cross Stitch Magazines usually come with a free cross stitch gift and tend to cost around £5, and they are full of extra patterns too. Or if you are conscious of the paper use, digital subscriptions to some cross stitch magazines can cost as little as £35 a year and then you have access to all of the patterns on your phone, helping the planet, saving you money and saving you space! You could also buy the pattern through Etsy etc and buy your own supplies from a local craft shop. Sometimes this can work out cheaper than buying the full kit and saves on the cost of postage and packaging.
I don't have time to do it
My most used phrase; "I don't have time". Yet I still somehow manage to whip up around 20-30 hoops a year. As a busy, working mum of two I totally know that lack of time is a real problem. I could go off on a tangent about how we should all create "me time" but I know that isn't always practical (and I did this on last months episode a little bit).
The reason I create the kits you see in my shop is that they are small, easy and fun. They are hoops you can pick up and put down throughout the day so you don't have to concentrate too hard on them. They are easy to transport so you can take them on the commute to work with you or on holiday. They won't take too long to finish, so you get the satisfaction of creating something totally by hand even with little time to work on it.
Head over to this podcast episode if you would like more tips on finding the time to cross stitch or shop our smaller kits.
I don't know how to cross stitch
Although I always say "cross stitch is easy", when you are a complete beginner of course it isn't actually that easy. It can seem quite daunting! Especially if you have no experience of sewing at all. If this is you, then I will say that cross stitch is one of the easiest crafts to learn. Once you get the hang of the basic "X" cross stitch yo can make such beautiful pieces and you never need to learn another stitch if you don't want to.
My kits come with paper instructions but if you are still stuck then I break these instructions down further into short, individual videos you can keep referring back to.
I also have a couple of podcast episodes with a small cross stitch glossary to help you get started with the basic terms of cross stitch.
I'm not creative enough
As someone who originally studied law this is something I completely understand. I never really believed I was that creative. I liked colouring in and writing, but I was never great at drawing from my own imagination and like most people I believed that drawing was the only way to be creative.
However, I now know that creativity goes much deeper than being able to draw. Even if you use 90% of the left side of your brain, there is still 10% that craves something creative and cross stitch can definitely help with that. Once you have got the basics of threading your needle and making that "X" stitch, the only thing you need to do is count (pretty useful if you're left side dominant). You can have no creative experience at all and still create a beautiful hand stitched piece using cross stitch.
If you are not sure if you use the left or right side of your brain more, you can take this test. I am 49% right and 51% left and I run a creative business, proving you don't have to be super creative to do cross stitch and that it's OK if you like both cross stitch and more logical things. For example, I love doing accounts as much as I love doing cross stitch. I believe we need to stop putting ourselves in boxes, put down that label gun and start branching out to what our heart calls us to.
I'll lose the motivation to finish it
I'm not going to tell you this won't happen because it more than likely will. It happens to me a lot. This is why I love smaller projects because I can see the end and this keeps me motivated. But I have plenty of projects that I have started and not finished and one hoop took me about 3 years to finish.
This goes for any project, not just cross stitch and my advice, if it happens, is not to fight it. Some people like to plough through even if they don't feel like it, but I don't think this is necessary if you are doing cross stitch as a hobby because you should be enjoying it! Instead, I would give into the lack of motivation and take a break from the project.
When this happens to me I do something else and it's not always something creative. If I'm just struggling to get going, I find cleaning helps clear my head so I will start scrubbing the bathrooms. If I feel like it's going to be longer I will play a game on my phone and not feel guilty, or I will colour in or do some drawing. If I'm looking for something the total opposite though I will do some accounts for the business, but if you don't run a business you could try some puzzles such as Sudoku.
And most importantly, remember this will pass and your creative juices will start flowing again!
Pattern of the month
This months pattern is from Hello Hoop and is a lovely little design with a rabbit, the word "Spring" and a flower garland with little carrots in it. It costs just over £4 at the time of recording and if stitched on 14 count aida it measures 6.79 X 6.29 inches.
Key Links and Resources
My You Tube channel
A Cross Stitch Glossary
The Benefit of Cross Stitch blog post
S2 E2 - 5 Ways To Find More Time To Cross Stitch
Tea Break Tog photography podcast
Sommer Brain Test
My Facebook Group
Pattern of the Month
Sign up to the cross stitch podcast newsletter and get free cross stitch project planner sheets.
In this episode I give you 5 actionable tips to find more time to cross stitch and be creative, and I share the first pattern of the series.
What you will hear:
- Ella's comments - “I got started in cross stitch when I was around 14 I think, when a little club was started at school and they showed us the very basics. We did tiny designs and nothing fancy” Sounds like my kind of club. “I’m mostly self taught, I haven’t done any cross stitch in 14 odd years and picked it back up last year. For me it’s relaxing and mindless and I like that projects can take a long time to complete, so I can keep coming back to them. Currently I don’t have time to cross stitch. I have a 2 year old and our second was born at the end of October so me time is limited. I do try and make time each day ideally for said me time and to do some crafty outlet – so knit, crochet cross stitch etc”.
- Making more time to be creative is impossible. Everyone has 24 hours in a day and things need to get done, and some things may have to be sacrificed so you can be creative. I would much rather be stitching than cooking but unfortunately cooking is a necessity. So instead I watch less TV, I don't check my phone, I get up a bit earlier. It's important to find the reason why you want to cross stitch before you start sacrificing things as other wise you might start to resent stitching. Some of you may need to stitch because it's your job, others may do it for a hobby. For me, it's a bit of both. Although I have a business around cross stitch, this isn't the only reason I do it. I stitch to relax and de-stress. It takes my mind off my busy life and sometimes I have my best ideas while I'm lost in a cross stitch project. And of course the satisfaction of finishing a piece of work is an amazing feeling.
- Tip number 1 - Work on 2 or more projects at the same time. This might seem counter-productive but I promise it helps. I have 1 bigger project that needs my undivided attention, and a smaller ones that I can pick up and put down. I save the bigger one for an evening when the kids are in bed and I can sit and stitch with little distraction.
- Tip number 2 - Have your smaller projects out at all times. For me, this involves keeping it high up and out of reach of little hands and this is where project bags (link) come in handy. I keep it on windowsills and draws and the kitchen counters and whenever I have a spare 5 minutes I can grab it out and have a little stitch.
- Tip number 3 - Double up some tasks. For example, take your kit into your work and stitch on your breaks or lunch hour. Stitch in the bath, or while you're stood at the oven cooking (watch out for getting food on it though). Or maybe the kids are playing happily or you're watching a film together - take 10 minutes for a bit of stitching.
- Tip number 4 - Stitch while you're commuting. This could be while you're on the train or bus to work or maybe you're going on a road trip or flying abroad. Have your project bag handy and take it with you. Stitching in the car isn't the easiest but practice makes perfect here.
- Tip number 5 - Find ways to stitch without needing your pattern. This makes it much easier to stitch in those 5 minute gaps and while you're commuting. For example, stitch the outlines of the pattern first and then you can fill the insides without needing to look at your pattern. Or stitch the whole pattern in half stitches first and then you can go back over them to make the full stitches.
- The productivity-ist in me wants to batch everything including my creativity, and sometimes I do. But when you work at home with at least 1 child there 24/7 this isn't always possible so I need to stitch in those gaps that I get. And I don't feel guilty for taking those 5 or 10 minutes anymore because I know after it I will be calmer and happier.
- The pattern on the month this month is from Yeesam Art and was recommended from Ella in my Facenook group; “My favourite pattern is one you can find on Amazon called Rainbow Bubble Girl” and even better, it's actually a full kit.
I hope these tips have given you some ideas to help you find some time to get creative. And I would love to know if you have any other tips for how you find the time to cross stitch and craft? Get in touch via the contact page or through social media, I love hearing from you.
Key links and resources
Vote and nominate for the National Needle Craft Awards.
Sign up to the cross stitch podcast newsletter and get free cross stitch project planner sheets.
Subscribe to the podcast via iTunes.
Join my Facebook group and come and chat with other like minded cross stitchers.
In this episode I chat all about what you can expect in series two of The Cross Stitch Podcast.
What you will hear:
- I talk a little bit about what the podcast is all about; simplified cross stitch. I don't chat about complicated cross stitch because I don't really like or have time for complicated cross stitch.
- The podcast is moving from weekly to monthly episodes. Each episode will now go live on the second Monday of the month, so episode two will be available on the 15th February 2018. I have done this so I can put more effort and content into each episode, making them longer and hopefully more beneficial to you.
- I ask you, the listeners and followers, for your own stories, experiences and recommendations around cross stitch and crafts in general. Why do you cross stitch? What got you started? How do you find the time to create? If you have anything you would like me to read out on the show please get in touch at hannahhandmakes@gmail.com, contact me via social media or leave a review.
- I have set up a newsletter specifically for The Cross Stitch Podcast. If you sign up you will receive free, printable cross stitch project planner sheets and you will get a monthly email every time a new podcast episode goes live. The email will include some of the show notes and a link to listen to the episode. I will also be sending out some more freebies throughout the year that relate to each episode.
- I chat a little bit about me and how I got into cross stitch. I tell you how I used to be very academic until I had my first baby and got back into hand sewing and cross stich, and since then I have found the time to create or craft every single day. (This is a little hint of what you can expect to hear about in next months episode - finding time to cross stitch). I go through how I started the business and a quick run through if its journey so far.
Key links and resources:
My Facebook group where you can share your crafty makes and chat with like minded cross stitchers.
The podcast episode list to listen to past episodes.
In this episode I chat all about what you can expect in series two of The Cross Stitch Podcast.
What you will hear:
- I talk a little bit about what the podcast is all about; simplified cross stitch. I don't chat about complicated cross stitch because I don't really like or have time for complicated cross stitch.
- The podcast is moving from weekly to monthly episodes. Each episode will now go live on the second Monday of the month, so episode two will be available on the 15th February 2018. I have done this so I can put more effort and content into each episode, making them longer and hopefully more beneficial to you.
- I ask you, the listeners and followers, for your own stories, experiences and recommendations around cross stitch and crafts in general. Why do you cross stitch? What got you started? How do you find the time to create? If you have anything you would like me to read out on the show please get in touch at hannahhandmakes@gmail.com, contact me via social media or leave a review.
- I have set up a newsletter specifically for The Cross Stitch Podcast. If you sign up you will receive free, printable cross stitch project planner sheets and you will get a monthly email every time a new podcast episode goes live. The email will include some of the show notes and a link to listen to the episode. I will also be sending out some more freebies throughout the year that relate to each episode.
- I chat a little bit about me and how I got into cross stitch. I tell you how I used to be very academic until I had my first baby and got back into hand sewing and cross stich, and since then I have found the time to create or craft every single day. (This is a little hint of what you can expect to hear about in next months episode - finding time to cross stitch). I go through how I started the business and a quick run through if its journey so far.
Key links and resources:
My Facebook group where you can share your crafty makes and chat with like minded cross stitchers.
The podcast episode list to listen to past episodes.
In this episode I'm saying goodbye an having a chat about my plans and ideas for next series.
I talk about:
- Where I have hung my finished Deck The Halls hoop.
- When I will be back with Series 2.
- My plans for moving to monthly episodes.
- Some of my ideas for future episodes such as reviews on different brands of cross stitch supplies and/or diving deep into the benefits of cross stitch.
- My last kit of the week for this series.
Key links and resources:
- A blog post sharing the basic benefits of cross stitch.
- This weeks kit of the week; my very own Deck The Halls Cross Stitch Kit.
- My Facebook Group where you can come and join in some cross stitch conversations while you are waiting for series 2.
- The podcast's iTunes store where you can subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss out when I launch series 2.
In this episode I talk about the last week of the stitch along, share some cool things you can do once you have finished your cross stitch project and share a funky Christmas kit.
The Stitch Along
We are the eighth and final week of the stitch along and this week we are backing our hoops and finishing up any bits we need too. I haven't actually backed my own hoop yet so I'm on track with everyone this week.
Finishing touches
Obviously I love putting my finished pieces in simply in a hoop, add some ribbon and hang it up. But there are some things you can do to jazz your hoop up a little.
You could paint your hoop! This is something I do a lot. I just buy little tester pots of paint and you will need to do at least 2, sometimes 3 coats of paint and leave it to dry over night.
You can also add glitter! Before your paint dries, just dip it in some glitter (or you can buy glitter paint but I don't find this works as effectively). After you have dipped it in the glitter and left it to dry I like to add a layer of PVA glue which dries clear and keeps the glitter from getting all over the floor.
Putting pom poms on hoops is a new and fun decoration I've recently tried. I made mini pom poms with a Clover pom-pom maker. I used yarn from Devon Sun Yarns to make my pom poms! I also added some bells too so when you shake it, it sounds super Christmassy! You can see the video of the bells over on my Instagram.
Another way to use pom poms, is by putting pom pom trim around your hoop like Amy from Coffee Rings and Making Things did with her Geeky Stitching kit. You can buy red pom pom trim from Little Ts Haberdashery, perfect for those Christmas hoops and super easy to use, just trim it and glue it around your hoop.
A good way to use your scrap pieces of aida is to make cross stitch Christmas cards or bookmarks. I have a tutorial on how to make cross stitch cards.
And some other ways to use your finished pieces aside from putting them in a frame if to make cushions or blankets using them. Amy, who I mentioned before made this cushion using our (now discontinued) Teepee Cross Stitch Kit. She wrote a lovely blog post piece all about this kit.
Kit of the week
This weeks kit is a stitch-a-bauble from Stitchsperation. It is funky and modern and the perfect alternative decoration this ear. And it's personalised too!
In this episode I talk about week 7 of the stitch along (the last week of stitching the design), tell you how to back your hoop to hide your stitches at the back and share a kit of the week.
The Stitch Along
This week we are stitching the holly and the rest of the fairy lights on the design and it is the last week of actual cross stitching. If you are on track you should finish the front this week! So today in the podcast I'm talking about backing your hoop to get ready for next week.
Backing Your Hoop
To back your hoop you need a piece of felt and using your inner hoop, draw around it so you have the perfect sized piece. Then pop your finished piece in the hoop, pull it taught and tighten the screw. Then snip off the corners of your aida and do a running stitch around the edge so it scrunches up at the back. Then, using a blanket stitch, stitch your piece of felt onto the back. If you would like to see more instructions on how to back your hoop and do a running and blanket stitch then pop over to this blog post.
Pattern of the week
This weeks pattern of the week is from Red Bear Design and is called Be Jolly. It has robins, baubles in and lovely, muted colours. If stitched on 14 count aida it measure around 5" x 4.5" and will fit in a 6 inch hoop.
Key links
My Facebook group where you can come and join lots of crafty makers and share your projects.
iTunes store where you can subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode.
In this episode I chat a little bit about week 6 of the stitch along, I share some popular ways to organise your embroidery floss and share a pattern of the week.
Key links and resources
- My Facebook group where the stitch along is happening.
- My Pinterest board with some floss organisation pins.
- My Instagram profile.
- This weeks pattern of the week.
Inspiration for the episode
Over the past year I have been on a de-cluttering and organising mission of my home but I’ve neglected this aspect of my work. Now that the rush of Christmas is arriving I really need to get organised! Every Saturday I have dedicated a bit of time to organising my craft room and I share peeks in my Instagram story.
The Christmas Stitch Along We are up to week 6 and this week we are stitching the 4 gingerbread men. Stitching these has really made me want to bake some too! I’ve never baked gingerbread even though I worked in cake shops for 6 years. If you have a fool proof recipe I’d love to hear it! You can share it in the comments below or come and join my Facebook group! This is where the stitch along is taking place but we also chat about all things cross stitch and crafts. Organising your floss There are many ways to organise your floss and I don’t think there’s any perfect way; it totally depends on how much floss you have and how much space you have. I have a Pinterest board with lots of pins on what I’m about to talk about today. Organised floss photos make for a great pin! I’m going to start with my personal least favourite ways (which seem to be the most popular with everyone else) and that is winding around pegs and bobbins. The reason I don’t like organising this way is because first of all, it takes ages to wind all the floss around the bobbins or pegs. And secondly, it leaves kinks in your floss which doesn’t look very professional and as I sell my kits I need them to be as professional as possible.
However, this is a good way to organise your floss if you’re just storing it for personal use (and you have the time). It still stitches fine and they make for fabulous Instagram friendly photos - particularly the pegs which I know some people like to decorate with washi tape. I only use bobbins now myself for photo props.
Another good thing about using paper bobbins is that they then fit in a bobbin box. Bobbin boxes have little square compartments in them to store your wound up bobbins (any other mums got that song in your head yet?). But in lots of boxes you can take out the plastic insides of the box to make longer compartments which are the perfect size for storing full skeins of thread. Unfortunately there are usually only about 5 compartments but I tend to store 2 contrasting colours per compartment; so black and white in one, green and orange in another etc. However, this is currently how my bobbin box look so this isn’t the main way I organise my floss. The way I organise my floss now is tying it on to thick card stock. First I match the card to the floss colour so baby pink card is used for floss colour 3689 (also baby pink). Then I print the numbers down the sides of the card and hole punch where the numbers are and tie on the thread! This way makes it really easy for me to find the colour I need and keeps the floss straight and untangled which is perfect for my kits. A new way I want to try is organising it on a spool rack. I only recently seen this idea from Sublime Stitching and you can check out the photo on the Pinterest board I was chatting about earlier. The way this works is that you take the floss out of the plastic casing and wind it around your fingers and place it on the prongs on the rack. If you aren’t confident with the numbers and colours of floss you can put the plastic casings on the prongs too! I love this idea and it is something that would be quite easy to create at home. I am currently on the hunt for a spool rack! My dream vision of storing floss is on a peg board. This sounds simple but the one I have seen on Pinterest is huge and has metal poles in it full of hanging skeins of thread. This is the kind of thing you would expect to find in a needlecraft shop but it is also possible to create at home if you had the space. You could buy a few pegboards, paint them and hang them on a wall next to each other to create a bigger one. And of course, you could just throw all of your floss in a box which is actually what I used to do for a while but this is extremely time consuming when you have to dig through the pile of tangled thread to find the colour you need. Pattern of the week This weeks pattern is from Not So Modern Millie and is called Pinecone Monogram. It is quite a new pattern and is completely perfect for Autumn and Christmas. The colours are mustards, browns and reds and it has flowers, berry’s and of course pinecones in it. It works really well for table runners and stockings and you can see photos of this over on Etsy where your can download the pattern. I am really hoping to stitch this one over Christmas, I just need to decide what to stitch it on! If you like to live a simpler life and don’t like to store loads of floss, you can shop for my kits which have only the colours you need in for that kit, meaning you don’t have to buy and store all the floss - you will just have what you need! So, how do you organise and store your floss? Let me know in the comments below! Or share a photo over on social media and tag #hannahhandmakes so I can see. Happy stitching!
Hannah x