One Stitch Ahead
It’s finally summer! The days are sunny and warm, the evenings are full of fireflies and evening strolls, and the weekends are full of trips to the lake with my family. I just can’t get enough of these special times. The garden I started months ago is full of luscious greenery and growing fruits and veggies. Now it’s just a waiting game for that first delicious bite of tomatoes, squash and other tasty summer treats. What about you? Is your garden bursting with crisp flavors? How do you spend your summer weekends? Whatever your pleasure, I hope you’re enjoying the long days and star-filled nights.
My favorite aspects of summer are its long days and sun-filled weekends. These provide extra chances for me to stitch. Whether I’m sitting under a shade tree by the lake or in a comfy chair in my backyard, my stitching basket is never far away. I’m always on the lookout for my next “must-stitch” piece, and this issue is full of projects destined for that list. The delicate blooms of summer are heralded in The Blue Flowers Sampler on page 10, while the dazzling colors and style of Partridge & Pomegranates on page 7 are equally stunning. Bird lovers will be thrilled to see Exotic Birds & Flowers on page 20 with its trio of feathered friends.
A highlight of this issue is the Christmas Ornament Preview, which starts on page 34. With nine dazzling ornaments to inspire your holiday stitching, this section of the magazine is definitely one to earmark and get you started on your Christmas stitching. Sampler fans will delight in the rainbow-hued Margaret Moffat 1896 Sampler on page 47, complete with its borders, alphabet and flowers.
Summer’s patriotic holidays also get a stitching nod with multiple projects that will have you cheering for the red, white and blue. From the Majestic Eagle & Flags on page 50 to the bright Happy 4th of July bolster pillow on page 53, there are projects of all sizes to help you celebrate America’s birth and independence.
As you make plans for barbecues, fireworks and weekends of sitting in the sun and stitching, remember to enjoy your handiwork. Sit back with your needle and thread, and watch your work spring to life with each tiny X. Whether you’re a new stitcher or a seasoned veteran stitcher, there is something for your stitching basket in this issue.
Until next issue, friends.
“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Galatians 6:9 FIND US @ www.facebook.com/JustCrossStitchMagazine