Cross stitch
I am trying to figure out how to put Christmas lights (strand) onto cross stitch fabrics. Any one every do this before?
Posted by: glider131 on 07/25/15
Do you mean like using a hardanger pattern to insert the bulbs through? Would need to know what type of project you're thinking of...a lot of ideas popped into my head but they probably aren't appropriate for what you have in mind.
by: VCESS on 07/25/15
One stitcher mentioned that she attached them to a Christmas stocking. Supposedly they were tiny. I don't know how she did it nor has she posted a picture. It sounds complicated. Battery operated lights come to mind but they would have to be the size of a bead so they can be pushed through the holes. May be possible on 11 ct Aida with the wiring on the inside. Maybe she'll post again and "shed light" on how she did it. LOL
by: Texas Stitcher on 07/25/15
I would guess you have to couch them like you do the new wire, or cording. ??
by: jlhewes on 07/25/15
I am trying to punch them through a 14 count fabric.
by: glider131 on 07/26/15
The only way I can think to do it would be to make some sort of "buttonhole" for the bulb, leaving the base and socket on the backside. Don't know how heat-proof aidas are; don't know how safe this idea would be. Makes me kind of nervous....could be very cute idea, but not worth endangering life and limb. :)
by: VCESS on 07/26/15
jll and VCESS, great ideas. I would never have thought to couch or do buttonholes but then it never occurred to me to attach lights to anything. The couching sounds like fun - buttonholes not so much.

VCESS is making a good point, be careful that you don't set your project on fire with all those lights.
by: Texas Stitcher on 07/26/15
I would be concerned about the lights overheating the fabric and starting a fire especially if you fall asleep while they're on......
by: Bermuda on 07/26/15
If you use tiny LED lights, they don't get hot like regular 'Christmas' lights do. They make real tiny lights, usually called 'seed lights' that might be possible to poke through an enlarged hole in the fabric. Might have better luck finding something closer to Christmas in the stores. Should be able to find something battery operated in one of the large hobby store chains. Cool idea, especially for Christmas designs. Would love to hear how it works out!
by: Bruce STL on 07/27/15