Suzie Perry

Are you interested in connecting with other people who enjoy cross stitch? Meeting with other cross stitchers can really be fun. You can swap ideas and techniques, share patterns, and generally have a terrific time.

Of course, finding other cross stitchers is easy on the Internet. By subscribing to a cross stitch site, such as Patterns Patch, you constantly have access to other cross stitch lovers. You can ask questions, chat with other enthusiasts, and even find a pen pal.

Through the website, you may be able to find other cross stitchers who live near you. By connecting this way, you'll be certain you've found people who share your love of cross stitch.

In addition to using the Internet, here are some other options to consider when it comes to finding cross stitchers locally:

• Ask at your local craft store. Many craft stores sponsor craft groups. These groups meet weekly or monthly at the store to swap ideas and have fun.

• If your store doesn't sponsor a cross stitch group, ask if they know of one in your area. Often they will be aware of craft clubs that meet locally. Another option is to ask if they are willing to let you start a club. Some craft stores let groups meet in their building, so see if your local store will let you do this.

• Ask at your local community center. More and more towns and cities are creating community centers to involve the residents in a variety of activities. Community centers are a great place to meet other cross stitch fans. If your city has a community center, check to see if they have a cross stitch group. If they don't have one yet, ask about starting one at the center.

• If your city doesn't have a community center, ask at other cities nearby. Many cities don't have restrictions when it comes to clubs, so you may be able to join a cross stitch club in a neighboring city.

• Ask at your church. Often, churches will let groups meet and use their facilities. If a cross stitch group doesn't currently meet at your church, ask about starting one. Frequently, churches will allow members to meet in their buildings. They also may let you put an announcement in the church flyer and on their website.

• Ask at work. To help employees relax and reduce stress, many companies now sponsor clubs at work. Ask if you can put a notice on a bulletin board in the lunch room so you can meet other cross stitchers.

• Check with your local newspaper. Local newspapers sometimes let small groups and organizations run ads in the paper for free. You may find an ad for a local cross stitch group. If not, consider running an ad yourself.

• Start your own cross stitch group. As mentioned before, if you can't find a cross stitch group in your area, start your own. Why wait for someone else to come up with the idea? You can do this yourself.

Until you get to know the people who join your group, look for places to meet outside of your home. Many libraries have meeting rooms that local citizens can use. Remember, community centers, churches, and craft stores sometimes will let you use their facilities for your meetings.

When it comes to finding other cross stitchers locally, you sometimes have to take the initiative. Don't be discouraged if it takes a little while to get a cross stitch group formed. The effort will be more than worth it in the long run. Soon, you'll have a group of local cross stitch fans who share your interest in this fun and fascinating craft.