04/29/2026
It seems I have not posted since our last newsletter, yet I am posting twice today.
Did you hear of the "PUT DOWN THE PHONE" Movement?
This is something that Needlepoint Shops are promoting to get customers to start stitching needlepoint so they stay off their phones.
So how about our craft joining as Counted Cross Stitch is a lot cheaper than purchasing needlepoint supplies, and also is a craft that takes concentration.
Start by picking up a piece of your needlework and stay off the phone. I know many of you use a computer as well as phone for your chart - how about printing the patterns on paper, and staying off the phone or computer.
As you age, your eyes will appreciate it as well. Also, unless
you can multi-task, your concentration to one thing will eliminate ripping out or loosing your place. This is a common issue when not paying attention to what your are stitching as it is easy to go off track when constantly glancing at the computer to someone showing off their finished work or even showing new products. There is a time for everything - pick and choose what is more important - watching videos, going into chats, or social media or sitting and stitching and finishing your project without
distractions. Just don't try to stitch and listen if your get distracted. Limit your social media time.
Same goes for fabric and patterns choices. You might be persuaded to see something you love and was told the person stitched it on 40 Ct, but it might not be a fabric that you can see easily or even at all. Stitch on what you can see. It doesn't matter if it ends up a little bigger. Now adays there are so many hand-dyed fabrics, and these are more costly than regular Zweigart and Wichelt fabric - same goes for all the flosses used in patterns. Some pattern use cotton floss, others silk, and multi brands for one pattern. Our craft is European based - meaning all flosses, and fabric as well as most kits are now made overseas. With the tariffs that were not considered legal, as well as postage, prices increased with each shipment arriving in our country. Don't think now no tariffs will drop prices - think again.
Guaranteed that will never happen.
So stitch on what you can see, use what you can afford, and put down the phone and enjoy the project you picked. You will be surprised how much faster you will complete your project when not stressed and not distracted. Try it, you might like it.
Also, If you are lonely and want stitching friends, always try your local library as many now are offering a craft night, once a week. Some Panera Bread shops have stitching groups that meet once a month as well. You can always check these out with a few phone calls.
Happy Stitchin'
