2011 About.com Cross Stitch Calendar

January represents a time of renewal. It also means fun in the snow for many of us! For those of us who can't enjoy actual snow, we can still build a snow family with stitches.

February is all about love and, even better, candy. If, however, you'd rather avoid caloric confections, try out some new-to-you floss or fiber and stitch up this simple design.

In March, many of us celebrate St. Patrick's Day, one of the most imaginative holidays ever - green hats, green beer, and little men in green outfits. If green is not your thing, well, stitch up a design like the free Square Deal pattern that lets you use your imagination when it comes to color selection.

In April, the showers start. If you are wise, you stay indoors or wear your wellies if you must go out. If you are wise, you also listen to the wisdom of others. This Zulu proverb is both wise and easy to stitch. Share these wise stitches with someone as a nice "just-because" gift.

May flowers - brought on by those April showers - are fun to pick, but also to stitch. Brighten a corner in your home by stitching up this little design. Make an ornament or a small flat-fold display.

You may want to swoon in June as you bask in all the rays. Be sure to wear your sunscreen - or stitch up a sunny project instead. The free Happy Sun chart is sure to delight when stitched on a beach bag or cover up.

Celebrate Independence day with floss instead of fire-works as you stitch up this cute little motif for a decorative ornament or a pin. Three cheers for the red-white-and-blue! (Of course, you can change the colors as you like to fit whatever it is you want to cheer about.)

What is better than hanging out with friends on a hot August day? Stitching up this design for a true friend as a gift! Choose from two color variations or select your friend's favorite colors for the project.

Some nights in September are perfect for cuddling under the quilts. There are also, of course, perfect days for stitching mixed in the month. Stitch up this mini-quilt pattern to remind yourself of the four-seasons. Or, stitch all the maple leaves in the color of your choice to celebrate your favorite season.

October is the month the spooky sights start to pop up. Get thrills and chills as you stitch this batty project. Use variegated floss or stitch it all in black.

November - fall leaves, harvest time and for many of us, a time to be thankful. Stitch up a Thanksgiving Pumpkin for a table decoration or to add to a wreath to hang on your door. Welcome guests with stitchy style.

A holiday ornament that is not only festive, but allows you to try out some new stitches. Use the floss colors of your choice or follow Irene's lead and use a traditional holiday palette.