Needles & nations

A trip down memory lane

I have just finished the British Isles & Ireland SAL from last year. I missed one out and changed the layout. I loved waiting each month to see what the next ones were going to be. Doing them, some of them brought back memories of visiting them, and new ones to me had me googling to find out more about them and add them to my visiting list.

Jenny Soame, Woking, Surrey

We’re so pleased you’ve got so much out of doing the SAL, Jenny!

Martin & Susan, CrossStitcher Editors

Feline Friend

My version of Cat Amongst The Thistles (issue 405) using colours from my stash. Once pressed and framed it is a gift for my Mum’s birthday.

Deborah Ashley, via Facebook

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!

Courtesy of Willow Fabrics, our Star Letter writer will win a materials pack of their choice from those on offer for the projects in the current issue. Please note that packs for the Calendar, Mandala and British Houses SALs are not included in this prize selection. PLUS! The writers of every letter or tip featured each month will also receive a mystery prize!

Animal Magic

I had a very exciting start to the year when the February 2024 issue arrived in the post and I saw the cover pattern! I can't wait to get started on Silent Night, but as my sassy 11 year old told me, I have to finish Fox in Fall first! I don’t get a lot of time for crafting around work, parenting and life events, so the series is probably going to keep me busy for years; which brings a huge smile to my face!

I’m really looking forward to the next two in the series, and (eventually) being able to have them all in rotation in my house. Happy stitching!

Hannah Jackson, by email

READER TIP

Avoid marking your fabric"

To prevent your embroidery hoop from leaving a mark on your fabric, I’ve found it helpful to place a piece of felt or fabric between the hoop and the fabric. This helps me distribute the pressure evenly and prevents my hoop from leaving a stubborn impression on the fabric.

Karen Yee, Birmingham

Quick & Cute

I completed the blue tit bookmark that came with issue 406 at the weekend. A cute little blue tit, designed by Susan Penny.

Jo Jones, via Facebook

OVER TO YOU…

We asked our fans on Facebook, “What type of design do you turn to when you are feeling stressed?”

DAWN DREGERI’ve been working on Lo