Cross Stitch Club: New Monthly Competition For Members!!
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"Cross Stitch Tips and News"
Brought to you by Patterns Patch Publishing
October 6th 2007

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CONTENTS:

- New Monthly Competition For Members!!
- A Top Tip for Cross Stitch Heaven... What to do With Scraps of Fabric
- Recent articles posted at PatternsPatch.com
- Cross Stitch Patterns Uploaded Since The Last Issue
- Recent "Cross Stitch" Forum Posts

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Subject: New Monthly Competition For Members!!

Hi [firstname]

I received an email from a friend recently (actually it's the guy doing the techy bits for our new blog ~ due to finally go live next week by the way) asking me to review a report he's just written on successful subscription websites. Tucked away in the middle was a brilliant idea, and so blindingly obvious, I mentally kicked myself hard for not thinking of it earlier.

Why not give a prize for the best post of the month in our cross stitch forum? Simple, huh? Doh! And so that's what we're going to do. Beginning in November, on the first of each month we're going to choose the 'Best' post from the previous month. The winner can choose the pattern of their choice from the Cross-Stich download library and we'll send that person all the thread, fabric and needles they need to stitch the pattern.

We have a small but enthusiastic bunch of posters in the forum and when browsing through yesterday, I came across a single post from Cassiem0221 ~ a fine post that was exactly in accord with what had gone before. My point here is, why stop at one? Cassiem! You've broken the ice, you've taken the plunge. Get stuck in girl, there's a $50 prize to be won here!

        ~X~
       
Occasionally we tell you a "warm" story. You know the type, one of these "touchy, feely" tales that after reading it you're left with that warm glow, and feeling in a much more positive and buoyant state of mind. Well, the following "true" story should be filed and left where you will see it often - and then every time you come across a situation or problem you think you cannot successfully handle or complete, read this story again!!

"Eight-year-old Glenn Cunningham raced into his burning school
to rescue his big brother. When he regained consciousness five
hours later, his brother was dead and Glenn's legs were horribly
burned. Specialists urged his parents to have Glenn's legs
amputated - he would never walk again - but Glenn pleaded against
them. Even though the toes of his left foot were gone and the
bone supporting the ball of his left foot practically destroyed,
Glenn was determined to walk again.

One week later Glenn announced he was ready to stand up.
His father lifted him out of bed, stood him upright and let go.
Glenn crumpled to the floor. Every day Glenn's parents carefully
rubbed his dead limbs. Every day for weeks, they repeated the
lifting-falling exercise. Then one day, for a few seconds,
Glenn Cunningham stood on his own.

A few days later Glenn took a few small, shaky steps. His parents
kept on rubbing his legs. He ate carefully and began to push
himself hard, running everywhere he went - to the fields, to
the store, to school.

Eleven years later, with no toes on his left foot and almost
missing a major bone, Glenn Cunningham set a high school record
for the one-mile run of 4:24.7. He enrolled in Kansas University
and two years later qualified for the Olympics with a United
States record-setting mile of 4:11.1.

Despite tonsillitis at the Los Angeles Olympics in 1932, he still finished fourth. He defeated milers around the world, repeatedly breaking his own records. In his early thirties he retired, holding the world mile record of 4:04.4."

From Little Books of Virtue

"Believe YOU can do anything."

        ~X~

Here's a tip for our British readers. Hobbeycraft has announced that it is giving 25% off all its Cross Stitch kits, while stocks last, from last Wednesday (October 3rd) through to October 14th 2007.

Go on the Internet and visit:    

http://www.hobbycraft.co.uk

... to find the location of your nearest store.

Remember Christmas is only 12 weeks away ~ a hint, dropped at the right time, could well reap its own reward.

        ~X~
       
Another competition we run for the members of Patterns Patch seems to have been forgotten. And that is a prize for the first photograph showing the successful stitching of any of our cross stitch patterns in the Members' Photo Gallery.

The first person to show such a photograph wins the full cross stitch kit of their choice. Since there's more than 170 patterns, this gives you plenty of choice, firstly in what to stitch and then which prize to choose.

Full details are given in the Members' Handbook.

        ~X~

*~*  MEMBERSHIP FOR FR^E  *~*

If you'd like to win a "Three months membership to Patterns Patch
for Free", go here and take a look (it's really easy to enter):

http://www.patternspatch.com/public/231.cfm

Don't forget to search for the mystery word in this letter. When
you've found the word, just put it in the subject line and email it
to me john@patternspatch.com ~ Good Luck!

The latest winner of our draw for "Three-months membership to
Patterns Patch for Free" is:

*~*  Charlotte Pierce  *~*

Congratulations to Charlotte and commiserations to those who didn't win this week. But hey, perseverance is a virtue; try again next week ~ it could be YOU!

And for those of you who didn't enter, why not? Don't you want this valuable gift?

You've got to be in it TO WIN IT!
 
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A TOP TIP FOR CROSS STITCH HEAVEN...
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   What to do with scraps of fabric

After all the material that you've cut to make a pillow cover, or bookmark, you're sure to have scraps of fabric left over scraps that you could perhaps use elsewhere. But how? Well, here's some help for you.

If you have a card sized piece of fabric, you could easily cut it neatly into an oblong shape and stitch on the "To" and "From" labels, and perhaps your message too! Take care that the edges aren't shabby and frayed, if they do look a bit untidy, fold the edges and stitch them in. Make it look colorful by using scraps of colored threads. You can test your color co-ordination here.

If you have the time, it's always a nice touch to create your own Christmas cards. To do this, buy blank cards that have a cut-out  for pictures. You personlize the card by stitching on a small motif that will fit inside the cut-out in the card. Secure the motif in place with a light weight glue.

Since Christmas is always a time when you need lots of such cards, how about starting out a few months in advance? Then, you'll have a stack of them when you need them.

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RECENT ARTICLES POSTED AT PATTERNS PATCH:
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1. Cross Stitch Archeology:  Digging for that Hard-to-Find Cross-Stitch Design.

Do you have a dream design?  You know the one.  It haunts you at night.  It's the one you look for every time you walk into a craft store.  It's the one that almost caused you to quit cross-stitching forever.  Well, there are some solutions to help you find that elusive cross-stitch pattern without sweating, screaming, or pulling your hair out...

Read the full article by going here:
< http://www.patternspatch.com/public/147.cfm >

   ~X~

2. The Never Ending Influence of Egypt on Cross Stitch.

Close your eyes and imagine Egypt… what wonderful images come to mind! Pyramids, pharaohs, camels, the River Nile, hieroglyphs…the list of colourful and interesting pictures seem endless. For someone who is interested in cross stitch, this country provides so many wonderful opportunities for imaginative stitching. The shapes, colours and sheer fascination of this country simply beg to be immortalised in cross stitch and given pride of place in your home...

Read the full article by going here:
< http://www.patternspatch.com/public/130.cfm  >

   ~X~

3. Cute Characters in Cross-Stitch:  Things that Make You Go, "Aww"

Some of the most popular cross-stitch patterns involve cute characters. These are definitely some of the better projects to choose if you are a beginner or someone notorious for not finishing projects. Whether it is creating a kitten sampler for a friend or adding to your dog collection, cute characters can be some of the most fun and entertaining cross-stitch patterns for everyone. ...

Read the full article by going here:
< http://www.patternspatch.com/public/164.cfm >

   ~X~

This is just a small sample of the more than 150 cross stitch
articles enjoyed by our members. If you'd like to read more,
go here to become a member
< https://www.patternspatch.com/public/5.cfm > joining is easy!

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CROSS STITCH PATTERNS UPLOADED SINCE THE LAST ISSUE
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We're giving EVERYONE who reads this letter a FREE Bonus cross
stitch pattern ~ Follow the download instructions carefully
and email me john@patternspatch.com if you have any problems.

To view full-sized illustrations of this week's FREE downloads (for
members), go here
< http://www.PatternsPatch.com/public/312.cfm >

You'll find additional information and can also leave comments
and rank (from 1 to 5) each download, if you wish.

   ~X~

 ** Patterns For Members Only **

- "Butterflies And Daisies"

- "Cute Christmas Puppies"
 
- "Day And Night Angels"

- "Sweet ChildLike Bride"

- "ThanksGiving Greetings"

 ** BONUS Download for ALL Readers **

- "Closing Our Eyes Together"

The download page for your bonus pattern is here:
< http://www.PatternsPatch.com/public/262.cfm >

Please note that you have until the next issue of your
"Cross Stitch Tips & News" letter to download the BONUS pattern.
After then it will be available only to Members in the
Download Library.

   ~X~

We're trying to introduce as wide a range as possible in the
download library to cater for all tastes. So if there's a
theme we've missed that you'd like to see patterns for, then
please drop me a quick email to the address towards the
bottom of this letter.

To view this week's gallery, here's the link again
< http://www.PatternsPatch.com/public/312.cfm >

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RECENT "CROSS STITCH FORUM" POSTS
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The newly renamed Cross Stitch forum has continued to post many
interesting threads. If you haven't taken part yet, why not
take a look and maybe join in. Hey! You might even enjoy it.

   ~X~
   
1. What Side Tracks YOU?
   
Member "mamab" posted this query, which, so far has
attracted 24 replies.
   
"I've been hoping to get back to cross stitching because I find it so relaxing (except when I goof, then I get frustrated). But, lately I've been side tracked by doing some freelance and ghost writing. I like the pay, but it takes up most of my time I could be cross stitching. What is it that side tracks you and keeps you from stitching?"...

 ------------------------------------

"The main thing that "detracts" from my stitching is having to work. Then there are the household chores. Uggh! Retirement would solve the work issue but only the lottery would resolve the problem of cleaning and laundry."

"I've also been doing a bit of writing which is enjoyable since I'm writing about stitching and other interests. In addition, I'm working on some original designs and I find that very time consuming even with the use of computer software."

"Recently my computer has been giving me headaches as well; that should be resolved shortly as my brother has built me a new one -- just have to find time when our schedules mesh to go pick it up."

"I too freelance but the majority of the time, it is my children who sidetrack me...and then my site doesn't help much either. I am considering cross-stitching a little each night after I shower, just to relax my nerves."
   
"I've decided that if I wait until I have time, I will never get any stitching done. I think the secret is just to jump right in, get a project started and work on it a little each day...then eventually it WILL get done whereas if I wait til I have lots of time, nothing will be accomplished!!!"

"The answer to that question is plain and simple.....LIFE ... But don't you all agree that "LIFE" is so much better than the alternative? ;-)"

"Seriously, my husband helps a lot by reminding me from time to time that it's perfectly okay for me to say, "No." People are always asking me to do things or make things for them and I love the fact that many times I can. However, it would take at least two "clones" to enable me to accomodate everyone who asks."

"Recently an acquaintance asked me to stitch something for her. It was a kit with 11 ct. fabric and I really didn't want to do it; she didn't bat an eye when she heard my price, much higher than usual. Needless to say, the project is completed except for attaching the beads. :-)"

Read the rest of the discussion here:
http://www.PatternsPatch.com/snip/146.htm  
 
    ~X~  

2. Which Magnifier?
   
If you'd like to try and win a fr*e membership, reply to
john@patternspatch.com with the word 'Ocean' in your email subject line.

Member "hislamb" posted this query, which, so far has
attracted 27 replies.

"I am considering buying a magnifier but was wondering if there are certain things that I should take into consideration..."

------------------------------------

"Are you talking about name brand, or type? I would suggest one that you can wear around your neck. I think having your hands free is important to you, so it might be the easiest. Of course, having a stand with a lighted magnifier might be good, too..."

"A magnifying glass that can be converted to free standing is always a plus. No matter what type you get, having a light in the frame itself is a must. That way, you can't cast a shadow over the piece you are trying to see."

"We are going through some large cities next week, so would I find a good magnifier at JoAnn's, Hobby Lobby or Michael's or would I have to order it?"

"Try looking at places that sell tools for jewelers. They have all sorts of magnifiers for fine, hard to see work."

"The magnifier I have is like the magnifiers here:

http://www.PatternsPatch.com/snip/147.htm

I can clamp it on any surface so I can use it for more than one craft."

"Have you chosen the model you like best yet? If you plan carefully, you could buy one every 6 months to a year and eventually have one for every room where you might feel like working. It would simplify things and the convenience would be priceless."

Read the rest of the discussion here:
http://www.PatternsPatch.com/snip/148.htm 

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Make sure your stitching friends know about Patterns Patch. Forward this email newsletter to them so that they can subscribe
(www.patternspatch.com) and  receive future copies directly to
their own mailbox.

Please do not reply to this email. It was sent to you by our
computer, which is splendid at sending emails but absolutely
useless at reading them! To get in touch with us, please send a
short email to john@patternspatch.com.

... and finally, if you have children, give them a hug and a
kiss, and tell them you love them.

Sincerely,

John Wigham

PS If you're not already a member, why not? You're missing out
on so much! go here to join now:

< https://www.patternspatch.com/public/5.cfm > joining is easy!

Your next "Cross Stitch Tips & News" letter will appear on
Saturday October 20th 2007.
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Missed an issue of our Cross Stitch Tips & News letter?  Find them all at:
< http://www.patternspatch.com/public/department27.cfm >
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