Stitches

How can I find complicated cross stitch patterns?

I like big projects...the more colours and the more fractional stitches the better. I also like backstitching. I know I'm amongst the minority. lol I am having a hard time finding online sources that get into such details about the stitching skill level of what they are selling. I don't want to order one, then get it and be disappointed because it's all full stitches or something.

Public Comments

1. I suggest that you don't shop for cross-stitching online. Go to your local craft shop or hobby shop or fabric store, even Walmart carries some, though very limited. Good luck in your search!
2. I like fractional stitches, too! I recommend the Dimensions Gold Collection kits. I'm usually not a huge fan of kits, but the Gold Collection patterns are high quality. Lots of rich colors, detail, etc. The kits usually run $25-$35, though.
3. Lavender & Lace makes some absolutely gorgeous patterns, I just finished "The Wedding" it measures 16x22. 9 skeins of white. Lots of combining colors, tiny detail work and small beads. I am also working on "The Maiden Voyage" by Bucilla. Its an old ship with cloud details in the background. A couple of years ago I did "Pansies" from DMC. The flowers were extremely detailed and all the grainwork in the background was tedious. http://www.bucilla.com http://www.craftystitching.com http://www.millhill.com if you like doing the beadwork. I like it as a nice change. But overall the Lavender and Lace is my favorite to work on. My wedding sampler took 5 years to complete. I also did a christmas tree skirt from Bucilla.
4. Have you tried Mirabilia Designs? Angels, fairies, mermaids--all with lots of colors, beading, and metallic threads. Gorgeous. They're at www.mirabilia.com. The deisgner's name is Nora Corbett, and her mother, Marilyn Leavitt-Imblum, designs somewhat similar things forher own company, Lavender & Lace, which can be found at www.tiag.com. If you're really brave, and you like stitching one over one, try the designs at Heaven and Earth Designs. (I can't recall their addy.) Their designs are very large, extremely detailed, and absolutely beautiful. If you like samplers with decorative stitches (not all full crosses), try the designs at Sweetheart Tree at www.sweethearttree.com. Their website is one of the few that lists skill level & the kinds of special stitches in each design. Have fun!