Ellen Jackson

How do you locate the difficult to find cross stitch design, pattern or chart? Most cross stitchers, at the beginning of their hobby are completely content cross stitching the various patterns and designs found in local hobby stores. However, there are only so many of these cutesy kitschy designs that one's home can handle. Many cross stitchers eventually find themselves searching out hard to find designs, patterns they know will accent their homes or gifts that will suit a loved one perfectly. You might be interested to know there are several ways to expand your search that can make this much more successful.

Wish List

When I am looking for new and exciting projects to start, I usually consult my "Wish List". This is a list that I keep current with all the different design titles and their authors, so I have reference in one spot of the different patterns I have seen and would like to complete. It never matters how long my Wish List is, just that they are all projects I am interested in finding and attempting to complete. In addition to my Wish List, I also try to keep a picture of the projects I have added. This makes finding the pattern or specific chart for the pattern easier due to the fact that some people may not know the title of the pattern but may recognize a picture of it.

After you have compiled your wish list, you can post items on it to message boards or use it for reference when shopping in stores or online. I have had most of my luck finding the elusive design using the message boards, such as on PatternsPatch. It is usually someone who either has the design or knows where I can find it. Sometimes a fellow cross stitcher will offer to swap for a chart or pattern I am no longer using.

Online Auctions

Another popular place to look for hard to find patterns, designs, or charts are online auctions. Many times all you have to do is a simple key word search at an online auction and you will find many charts for very little money. Some of the sellers sell entire boxes at a time just to clear out their hobby closets. It can be fun to purchase a box of mismatch patterns. It's like Christmas; you never know what treasures you will find awaiting you within the new package.

When looking for that elusive pattern, it is important to keep your eyes open at all times. There are so many places you can find cross stitch patterns and charts that most people never think of. There are the obvious places to look, which of course you should always check out just in case they have your design in stock or can order it, such as the hobby stores both online and in your town. There are so many places to order from online you could spend days looking for your designs so make sure to do a search for the title or key words you are searching for. 

Other places to look 

Less obvious places to find those hard to find patterns are thrift stores and garage sales. You never know who else does cross stitch and you may just get lucky when driving through the neighborhood garage sale. Many church sales will have needlepoint or cross stitch charts, patterns and kits for sale or better yet for free as giveaways.

No matter where you look, always keep in mind that someone has the pattern you are looking for; you may just have to be a bit more patient than you are used to being, but good things do come to those who wait, and keep their eyes open of course.