Part 3 of 3.  After an intense bout of cross stitching, my interest waned a little. The pandemic was lifting, life was getting much busier again. I fell pregnant with my second which took over my life. I also got back into knitting. A lot was competing for my time!

Christmas Totoro

Completion Date: 7 December 2021

Specifications: Digital pattern on 14 count aida

This was one of my favourite pieces. Love Totoro and this is still hands down my favourite cross stitch pattern I’ve found of him (there are lots out there but they all kinda look a bit wonky). The background half-stitches gave it a cool sketchy look and the back stitches were simple but effective. Hung it behind a Christmas wreath on our front door!

 

“You Got a Moon!”

Completion Date: March 2022

Specifications: Digital pattern on 18 count aida

I bought the pattern after finishing Mario Odyssey, a very fun game. I also bought specially-dyed aida for the first time, and it looked gorgeous when it arrived and as I stitched it. The stitching itself was a bit dull (very simple design as you can see) but I thought it would make the background pop. Unfortunately, even after a quick rinse in cold water after stitching, the colours completely faded. Ugh, devastated!

 

Whale in a lightbulb

Completion Date: 27 April 2023

Specifications: Digital pattern on 14 count aida

Very cute pattern and satisfying stitch. First time doing blended threads which really gave the piece some depth. I started it while pregnant with my daughter but didn’t finish it until a while later! Have been meaning to get it hung up in her room.

 

The Great Wave bookmark

Completion Date: 11 September 2023

Specifications: Physical kit, on 18 count aida with adhesive felt backing

I love the Great Wave but didn’t think I’d have the time to do a full stitch of the painting, so a bookmark is a good compromise. The pattern calls for lots of little french knots to be added amongst the waves but after doing a few, I scrapped them as I felt it made the bookmark look cluttered.

To finish, I back stitched a simple black border, washed it and stuck the piece to black felt that was sticky on the back. Then I trimmed the excess materials and put anti-fraying stuff along the borders. Not completely happy with the piece as for some reason the bottom looks noticeably narrower than the top.