TATBit Tats notes that Febreze’s flameless luminaries are the perfect base for needlework such as tatting. Just add some tatted bits to the translucent shade. Or, if you’re sensitive to fragrances, replace the scented paper with some pretty scent-free handmade paper before you add your needlework. Lovely, flickering light; no fire danger. Brilliant. See the blog post.
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Cross Stitch for the Beach
This time of year I always start thinking about vacations, and while I don’t think I’ll be seeing the beach this year, I could stitch up one of these beach themed cross stitch patterns, which would be perfect if you live near the beach or have a beach house to decorate.
First there are these teeny projects from Bella Rose Craft. This set of minis includes a seagull and a starfish, and they are each shown in their own 1.5 by 2 inch/3.8 by 5 cm frames, though the pattern has them together on one chart. The gull is 17 by 20 stitches and the starfish is 16 by 16.
Speaking of seagulls, I love this little seagull sampler that also includes anchors, sailboats and a life preserver, among other summer symbols. This one is from Bees on Toast Shop (would love to know the story of that name!) and uses only full cross stitches and 8 colors. The sample is shown in a 6-inch hoop.
If you want to get literal with your beach stitching, try this project that says beach and includes sand, sea, sun and lots of other fun stuff within the letters. The design is from Stitchrovia and measures 252 by 85 stitches. On 14 count fabric that would be 18 by 6.1 inches, or 45.7 by 15.4 cm. Sizing for other fabric counts are included if you want to make yours smaller. The pattern uses 21 colors.
Stitch up a project that says “wish you were here” or “wish I were there” with this one from The Little Art Veranda. It shows two chairs on the beach in front of what I’ve decided is the sunset (which kind of looks like an egg, but I like it). It uses 9 colors and only full cross stitches. It’s 140 by 140 stitches and fits perfectly in a 10 inch hoop if stitched on 14 count fabric.
Or make the beach modern art with this fun wave design from Box and Fox worked in three shades of blue. It measures 110 by 10 stitches, which is 7.8 inches or 19.96 cm square on 14 count fabric. Despite the dramatic look this would be a great option for someone new to cross stitch.