Pattern Comparison
I am working on my first really big (for me) project from Mystic Stitch (300 x 400 stitches). Just curious how other pattern design companies, such as Heaven and Earth Designs and Artecy compare to Mystic Stitch patterns with the large photo-like, full cross-stitch only and solid stitched type patterns. Really am impresssed with the pattern from Mystic Stitch and how the project is turning out. Thanks for all of your opinions.
Posted by: Bruce STL on 09/04/15
I have bought some Mystic Stitch patterns, but as yet have not tried one. I do have a close family member who is working on one (200 x 250), and I'm able to see the progress almost daily. It's absolutely beautiful.

Here are my personal comparisons:

Artecy--I finished a large one (300 x 218) a few months ago. I loved the experience and the finished product. People were also amazed at how detailed it was. My only regret? Since it was my first large one and I had only worked on 14 ct fabric up to that point, I did it on 14 ct. I've since started projects on 18 ct, which, to me, create a more seamless look. But of course, that's totally on me, not on Artecy.

Scarlet Quince--One of the 4 projects I'm currently rotating is from SQ. It's 405 x 288. Again, it's another breathtaking pattern. SQ is known for using blended threads, which creates an insane level of detail, but also an insane amount of color changes!! :) Regardless, seeing the piece come alive is such an amazing experience. It's going to take me forever to finish, but who cares?!?! :) The only "complaint" I have (which is not really a complaint) is that the regular-sized charts are small. My eyes (plus glasses) are fine but it's a lot of info to take in at one time. They do offer large-sized charts, which I'll probably buy the next time I get an SQ pattern.

Etsy--Naturally, Etsy is not a dedicated cross-stitch shop, but there are PLENTY of large patterns available there that are gorgeous. The one that I'm working on is 304 x 350. And it's actually my favorite one to do right now. The designer put the colors together beautifully and it's coming together so nicely.



Now for my simple opinion rather than experience (haha!) :)

HAED--Haven't worked on one, but I got a large 87 page freebie off their site recently and the pattern alone looks stunning. I can only imagine what the finished piece looks like.

StitchX--I started a medium-sized one, but didn't finish (for some reason I got bored with the project, but I intend to return to it one day). I love their patterns, but I don't always like the symbols--depends on the pattern. I have 7 new ones that I need to work on one day. Too much on my plate!!

Shinysun's--I've only seen a sample page of their patterns, but I'm going to bet, based on the patterns they offer on their site, and what I saw on their sample pattern page, that their large patterns are just as wonderful as some of the more major designers.


Ok! Phew! Long post! Sorry! But I do hope it helps!! :)
by: khtreasure on 09/04/15
Thanks, for all of the info KH! I have mostly worked on 14 ct Aida, so that is what I am using on this project. It just celebrated it's third birthday on June 11th, but there have been extended periods of it being stashed in the closet.

I don't know anyone else personally that cross-stitches, so I am rather isolated in having someone else to discuss this with. This chat board has given me a lot of great info and a chance to share my hobby. Thank you, everyone!

Would love to get other's opinions!
by: Bruce STL on 09/04/15
Hi Bruce,

Artecy: Through "chats" with others these are beautiful and finely detailed charts. Have 2 I'll be doing
in the near future but haven't stitched one yet. Have 6 or Artecy patterns in my Wish list.

Mystic Stitch: Have a small one "in progress" and though small, it has fine detail to it especially when
working on 28 and 32 count fabric.

Lavender and Lace: Beautiful and nicely detailed cross stitch patterns. I have done four of
their "angels", first one "Earth Angel" on 14 count (regret she's not on 28 count for
a finer textured background) and has other beautifully detailed designs. Check out
"Secret Santa", and the different Angels by L & L.

Scarlett Quiance: I have patterns, not stitched one yet. Have read wonderful reviews from others to
the excellent detail of charts and their method of the "Color keys" that come with
charts.

Heaven and Earth Designs: I have 2 of their designs in progress, "Sacred Hour" and "Loves Me Not."
Very detailed patterns! For experienced stitchers who don't mind that one '
pattern may take them from 8 months - 2 + years to complete. Many, if
not all, of their patterns recommend being done on 25 count OVER ONE!
I'm doing mine on 28 count over one square. I have at least a couple
smaller projects when I get "tired" of working on the big projects.

Many of the cross stitch projects offered by the above are not for the faint of heart. BUT they are truly "works" of art when completed!
by: Bermuda on 09/04/15
I really enjoy the challenge of working large, highly detailed, 50+ colors and thousands of color thread changes and have been doing so for years. Have done several of the Lavendar & Lace designs. I'm goind to have to check out some of these other companies (although I'm going to have to live for the next hundred years to get to all the charts that I currently have!!). There are some tricks and tools to help with these larger projects so if you need help/advice don't hesitate to ask one of us.
by: quilterangel123 on 09/08/15
My first "big" pattern/project is called "Lying in Wait" by Kustom Kraft. I am about a month away from finishing it. I love their patterns/symbols however I am very disappointed in the coloring of the finished project. They put a disclaimer on the bottom of the inside front cover stating "photos on the cover might vary slightly from the finished project". This is quite an understatement to say the least. On the photo on the cover the wolf is gorgeous shades of tans/browns however the finished wolf is dark shades of gray/navy blue. Not anything like the cover. Also the snow is blues and lavenders. I have lived in the snow belt of Northwestern Pennsylvania for 68 years and never seen lavender snow. The picture shows pretty white snow. I bought the pattern because I loved the colors on the cover. I don't think I will be making any more of their patterns. Too much work and time and love goes into it and not to end up with what you thought you were going to is frustrating. I have been working on this project for 6 months. I usually work on 14 ct aida as it is easier on these old eyes but won't do that again with any more large patterns I work. The DMC threads did not cover very well and there is a lot of the fabric showing through. I put my issue on DMC threads on an earlier chat so won't go there again. I will be going over to the Reading, Pa. area next week where there is a cross stitch shop and I am hoping to get several large pieces of fabric for my future big projects but think I will try for 16 or 18 count this time. A little more strain on the eyes but if my finished project is gorgeous it will be worth it. I have several Artecy patterns and Mystic Stitch patterns that I will be working on over the next couple of years. Of course, I will always be adding more to my stash as I see ones I like. This project was my "learning" project so now have a better idea of what size fabric etc. My next big project is going to be "Barn in Sugar Grove" by White Willow Stitching. I hope I like it better than this one I am working on now.
Have a great week.
cheryl
by: clpatt123 on 09/08/15
Some great info you all have provided. I am sure it will be helpful to others as well.

Cheryl, my Mystic Stitch project calls for 14 ct Aida with 2 strands of floss. I am using the 14 ct Aida as I like to work on that. I started with 2 strands, but ripped it out as I didn't like the coverage. Using 3 strands and I am much happier to the density. Sorry that your project didn't turn out as you had hoped. To spend that much time and effort is unfortunate. I wish the pattern makers would get their pictures to better represent the finished item. Live and learn. Better luck with the next project!
by: Bruce STL on 09/09/15