I haven’t posted anything crafty lately because most of my crafting energy has been focused on one lengthy project…
Cross Stitch Pillow Cases
I have been embroidering since I was 4 years old.
You know when you hear people say that you’re thinking, “Yeah right…”
Well, really I was. I have proof!
Our Granny taught me to embroider when I was just a little tike.
I have some pot holders that I made for her when I was 4.
She gave them back to me a few years ago… They’re rough. 🙂
About what you’d expect from a 4 year old girl. But I’m still kinda proud of them, so I saved them of course.
Anyway, this last Christmas my Nana (the other grandma) gave me a set of pillow cases with a cross stitch pattern on them and some thread.
Embroidery is one of those things that I tackle with a huge project, take a long break and then do another huge project awhile later. So I finally got around to those pillow cases! And their done!
Anyone can do a cross stitch. It’s so easy. Let me show you!!
Simply start with a set of embroidery hoops. You can get them for a couple bucks at any craft store. A pair of decent scissors. An embroidery needle.
An embroidery pattern. In this case, the pillow cases… And some thread.
First cut a long length of thread. Pull two strands from your thread (more than that is too thick usually, save the rest you’ll need it later if it’s a very big project.) Then thread your needle.
Now tie a knot in one end of the thread.
Place your pillow cases in the embroidery hoops at the point where you want to start stitching. You can’t see it here, but the side of the pillow case with the pattern is sandwiched between two hoops to hold it taut.
Place your pillow cases in the embroidery hoops at the point where you want to start stitching. You can’t see it here, but the side of the pillow case with the pattern is sandwiched between two hoops to hold it taut.
Start your stitching from the underside of your hoops. Then stitch a little cross or X following the pattern. They KEY is to follow the pattern as neatly as possible.
When you reach the end of your thread tie it off, again on the underside. Keep all knots on the inside of the pillow case where no one will be the wiser! 😉 When you’re ready to switch colors, again just tie it off on the inside.
This tutorial may have been unnecessary because it’s so easy and there’s
instructions on the package if you buy the pillow case sets…
instructions on the package if you buy the pillow case sets…
But it’s what I’ve been working on, so I thought I’d share!
So what do you think??
I know they’re not the most popular style… But I have some that my Granny made me that I will always cherish. And I think they’re pretty! 😉
Plus they take forever to finish… So as a gift, they are a lot of work!
My mom crochets an edge on all of hers… Adds a little something I think. Except I don’t really know how to crochet…
Any other ideas to spruce up the opening?
Or do you think they’re lovely as is??
Very nice! This would also make a great vintage pillow case dress. Thanks for sharing. I am your new follower. You can follow me back at http://showmemama.com. Make sure you leave a comment so I know you visited.
Good job! I actually did quite a bit of cross-stitching when I was younger. It's one of those things that I enjoyed but rarely found the time to do it so I just haven't in awhile. But you are inspiring me to give it another chance.
I think the pillowcases are lovely as is, but if you want to add anything, what about maybe a strip of small ribbon or some satin blanket binding on the edge?
this is so cute..you did it nicely..well done…
How pretty! I love these colors and the pattern!
Beautiful work, Kassi. I used to embroider years ago and you've inspired me to take it up again. It's the little details that really speak of "home" and your pillowcases make a lovely statement. Your grandma must be proud. Thanks for sharing.
Lynn at Cottage and Creek (www.cottageandcreek.com)
So pretty! I wish I had the patience to cross-stitch, I just have a terrible feeling I'd be horrible at it! YOU on the other hand are awesome! Thanks for linking up and being an all around great blog buddy!
These are so beautiful! Thank you so much for participating in the PILLOW FIGHT!
Carlee
http://www.ladybirdln.com
I think it's lovely! Come check out what we did for the Pillow Fight!
That is beautiful!!!!!!!