Basic Resources

Discontinued DMC: Hard to Find Threads and Their Replacements

Before you click off of this article because you have already seen a dozen other articles listing discontinued DMC numbers — I have stitched samples! There are plenty of lists of discontinued DMC threads and suggestions for alternatives. But how close are the replacements really? What if you’re out of the replacement color too? Is… Read More Discontinued DMC: Hard to Find Threads and Their Replacements

Basic Resources

Can You Cross Stitch on a Plane? How to Check Airline Regulations

Here’s a question I (used to) see a lot. Can you cross stitch / do embroidery on a plane? Well the answer varies incredibly. It varies from country to country, of course. But also from airline to airline, and airport to airport! Generally speaking, though: Within the US, yes. Probably. Internationally, results may vary. Disclaimer:… Read More Can You Cross Stitch on a Plane? How to Check Airline Regulations

Basic Resources

Thread Conditioner: Should you use it for Embroidery & Cross Stitch?

Here’s a topic that’s I’ve seen brought up quite a bit lately: Thread conditioner. What is it, should you use it, and HOW do you use it anyway? For decades cross stitchers and embroidery artists alike have used a silicone-based substance called Thread Heaven to coat their threads while working. Plus the dozens of other… Read More Thread Conditioner: Should you use it for Embroidery & Cross Stitch?

Basic Resources

Gridding for Cross Stitch: Techniques to Help With Counting Stitches

In case you’re not familiar with the concept of gridding, it’s a technique mostly used on large cross stitch patterns to help the stitcher with counting and sizing. If you’ve ever seen an in progress photo of someone stitching where their fabric is covered in small squares, that’s gridding! There’s lots of different ways to… Read More Gridding for Cross Stitch: Techniques to Help With Counting Stitches