My daughter is getting married when she was very little I bought "through a mothers eyes" by Paula Vaughan and now my opportunity to do it. I've only ever done one cross stitch before about 20 years ago so I'm a bit nervous. It's quite big can I use a frame that will go across the stitches as I work it? Or do I need to buy a big sewing frame? Any advice from anyone? I only have 6 months to do is that doable?
Posted by: joe.ashford on 05/30/15
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How large is the picture? Honestly, if it is so large that you can't use a six inch embroidery hoop, I don't think you could finish it in six months. There are a lot of very sweet wedding projects that are on the smaller side. Try putting "wedding" in the search box. Perhaps you could give the big project to her on her first wedding anniversary?
Posted by: Cory on 05/30/15
I just looked at this pattern on line. It is gorgeous.
The description says "for the experienced stitcher." Therefore, I definitely would discourage you from attempting this.
It is on 32 ct linen. It is large 200 x 158 stitches. There are a lot of colors. There may or may not be fractional stitching. There is probably outlining.
It would be a beautiful gift Maybe you could find a print of this and have it framed.
DO NOT ATTEMPT - it will make you crazy! LOL
Posted by: NANCYE G on 05/30/15
Joe, I am with Nancye G on this. I believe I actually have this pattern somewhere in my stash from the days I was buying books from Leisure Arts. I was able to access a close up of the mirror she is standing in front of. The mirror has something we call "backstitching" all around it. This is usually with a single strand of floss you do backstitches around certain objects to give them dimension. It is easy, but time consuming. I would discourage you as well to attempt this, not that you CAN''T do it, but to do it with a six month window I believe isn't reasonable. Now, having said that, if I were you and I really loved this picture (which I do!), I would start working on it and give it as a gift...even as a first anniversary gift. I see absolutely nothing wrong with that. I gave something late to a dear friend of mine once. She was just thrilled to have something so beautiful that was hand made.
Posted by: jerseycrafter on 05/30/15
This is a densely stitched beautiful Paula Vaughan design. I think I may have this design in my stash as well and know that most of her designs include fractional stitches and backstitch which will add to your stitching time. Even for an experienced stitcher with this kind of detail and stitching density, 6 months is a small window and you would have to make a certain amount of progress everyday to meet your deadline. I think you should definitely start this piece since you purchased it many years ago with this special day in mind but with an open mind about when it will be finished and give it as a gift when you can comfortably finish it, so you can enjoy the stitching experience. That is what stitching is all about. I use a basic plastic embroidery hoop no larger than 6"-7" on everything I stitch even on very large pieces over 25". Good luck to you and come back to the chat to let us know how you are doing with this beautiful design.
Posted by: lbcatlovr001 on 05/30/15
Hi Joe! Welcome to the world of cross stitching!! It is a great hobby!
I do not wish to dissuade you in anyway! I agree with "catlover" I think you SHOULD do it! But, release yourself to ENJOY the journey of stitching this! Take away the time frame. Just work on it when you can, as much as you can; and while stitching remember your daughter growing up!
I, myself, prefer to use roll bars especially for larger pieces; it's easier to manage and doesn't pull or stretch the fabric or stitches. But everyone is different, and that's what I love about this page! We all have our own way of getting the "job" done, and also help each other!
I like back stitching! It adds dimension and for me is the easiest part of the project!