Steps to Recovery for a Cross Stitch Addict

Hi, my name is Kelly and I'm a cross stitch addict.  Even though I do get lots of pieces completed, I think I'm continually starting more than I really should be.  Especially when I need to be stitching models for my new pattern designs.  I'm taking the first steps towards recovery of my addiction... 

Step #1 - Take inventory of all my WIPs.  
Oh, I started that and it was just too overwhelming!  I gave up counting when I got to 15.

Step #2 - Separate WIPs between Stitchnmomma pattern models and pieces by other designers that are "just for me".
OK, I think this one is a little more manageable, although still a little overwhelming.

Step #3 - Pick one piece that will be a "thread a day" piece
Easy enough!  I picked for my first one "Wings and Things" by Ink Circles. (See photo and more info below)

Step #4 - Complete selected thread a day piece, return to step #3 and repeat. 


I've never done a "thread a day" piece, but I think it will be an easy way to start working through my huge stash of WIPs and actually see progress while still working on getting pattern models completed.  For those of you that haven't done this either, the process is an easy one...pick a piece and stitch one strand of thread a day on it.  You're always welcome to do more, but you need to do at least one.

Recently I started "Wings and Things" by Ink Circles.  I'm stitching using Weeks Dye Works chartreuse on my Very Dark Violet (DMC #550) aida fabric.

I'm not particularly fond of stitching on 14 ct. aida, but when I finally achieved this color of fabric (after over 1 year of trying to do it) I decided I needed to keep one piece out of the batch for myself.  At the time I didn't know what I was going to stitch on it, but knew I would eventually find something.   In all honesty I had wanted to do an Ink Circles piece, but all of them I liked were too large for this piece of fabric.  Then a few weeks ago, one of the ladies I stitch with on Saturdays showed me the "Wings and Things" chart.  I knew it was THE ONE!  I flipped the package over to look at the design dimensions and was beyond thrilled that it was small enough to fit.    And because y'all know I like bright, bold colors, I chose the charteuse floss to use.

This is my progress as of yesterday, August 1st.  I have almost 1/4 of the chartreuse stitched.  For the spider web in the center I'm using Grape Glow-in-the-dark #4 braid by Kreinik.  I'm also on the hunt for a super cute spider button or charm.  If you happen to know of one, please share the info with me.  :)

(close up of stitched progress)

I'll continue stitching and will do my best to post and update every week or two.  I'll have to see how much progress is made with doing just one thread per day.

Until the next time...Happy Stitching!