This is a dimensions inc birdhouses cross stitch kit that means it has everything to finish the cross stitch
all what you have to buy later on the frame to frame it. Have fun.

I understand that you don't want the little beginner kits to stitch since you are a beginner. I would start with a smaller pattern first rather than this. This is not a pattern for someone just starting out learning cross stitch. This is one I would do after I had done several easier ones first. Don't want you to get frustrated while you are learning this great hobby.

This is just my opinion, I think dimensions pic are great but there thread is of poor quality and some times hard to separate .
there are some great teaching web sites you could look at to get you started. and you would more likely be happier if you would start with something smaller ,then by all means do the one you like best
just type in how to cross stitch and you will get a slew of info.
Mickey

Hi,
I agree with Syagel as to begin with a small pattern as you are learning. It doesn't have to be a kit, either. A suggestion is a pattern from Little House Needleworks or Lizzie Kate. They have wonderful, fun simple cross stitches that give you the experience AND can give you the confidence and experience to go onto bigger and more difficult projects. Another thought come to mind; if you REALLY like the pattern you showed us on the "chat messageboard", you might consider buying the pattern and putting it away till you feel confident in trying a more difficult pattern.
ALSO, the large number of HELPFUL, EXPERIENCED cross stitchers on this message board are excellent resource people to help when you have questions!! Don't be shy about asking questions!!
Most of all, have fun with your cross stitching!!!

I concur that you should start with a smaller project. If you can thread a needle you should be able to teach yourself in a short amount of time. You don't necessarily have to buy a kit. You can buy pattern, fabric and floss individually at a craft store. Pick something with only a few colors.

Welcome to the club

I definitely agree with the other stitchers here that the size of this project is ambitious for just starting out. If you really like this one, you would be best off starting with a few small patterns and then moving onto this after. Like someone else stated here, there are designers who make small stitches like ornament size beyond the little starter kits that you don't care to start with. Little House Needleworks is on sale for the month of February and has some nice ornament sized designs (I just ordered a bunch of these myself yesterday to work around larger projects), there's also Bent Creek, Lizzie Kate, Val's Stuff, among many other designers to pick from that make these size designs. I would just avoid any that require beading and get used to regular cross stitch first.

Best of luck in what you pick and check back to let us know how you are doing.

Take a look at "Unity Birdhouses"-- background not stitched, much simpler but not tiny kid's pattern. Khristi will get a supply list worked up if asked. Get a combination pack of tapestry needles. Size 24 is good for many projects.

When I first started cross stitch, I also used smaller patterns and looked for ones that had distinct color changes - I love Stoney Creek type patterns, however I would have never started with one as there are too many colors and I had to change floss too many times for that to be a beginners project