21. Wrap a Candle
Candles are an important part of the holiday season in many homes. My grandfather lights up the neighborhood with electric candles in all the windows. Now they have those battery operated ones too.One way to combine Cross Stitch and your holiday celebrations is to wrap a stitched band of Aida, linen, or vinyl Aida around a candle. This works for wax candles and the type in a jar. Just be careful if you actually intend to burn the candle!
Make some of your own candles to give as gifts. This will personalize the present even further.
Information on Making Candles from About.com Guide David Fisher:
22. Paint a Back Stitch Motif
Start small with the simple back stitch ornament design. Then graduate to some larger back stitch motifs. This might be a great way to get the kids involved in a crafty project.See also:
- Watercolor Painting and Cross Stitch Technique Video Demonstration from About.com Painting
- Fabric Painting Tips from About.com Painting
- Disney's Eeyore Stitch 'N Paint - Leisure Arts
- Leisure Art's DyeNamic Florals
- Stamp 'n Stitch Nature from Leisure Arts
23. Cross Stitch On Crochet
If you enjoy Crochet as well as Cross Stitch, did you realize that you can combine the two? You can add a small cross stitch design to Tunisian crochet squares or to single crochet. Make fun ornaments or even holiday potholders.24. Stitch a Bell Pull or Table Runner
One great Christmas decorating idea that involves Cross Stitch is a bell pull or table runner. Down Under Stitcher submitted a great example in her Tropical Bell Pull photo. You can easily substitute a holiday design and dress up your wall or table with your stitching.Suggested Designs to Incorporate in Your Table Runner:
25. Create Personalized Holiday Ornaments
One year I stitched up a bunch of ornaments that were very special. The little pattern was a beagle with a red ribbon who just happened to look just like our beloved beagle (may he rest in peace) Sam. I stitched the word "Sam" under the motif and gave the ornaments to friends and family. I still have people comment on those ornaments. Sam was much loved.Create your own special memory with a personalized ornament. Whether you use graph paper or computer software to create the ornament, the gifts will be much treasured by those who receive them. Stitch a representation of your pet, your home, or add your family name and the date to a simple motif. Start a holiday tradition that just may last a life-time.
How Do You Celebrate with Cross Stitch? Share Your Tips and Ideas.
Do you have a special way of combining your love of Cross Stitch and holiday celebrations? Submit a Cross Stitch Tip and let us know.
