Cross Stitch Club: What these two virtues can do for YOU...
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"Cross Stitch Tips and News"
Brought to you by Patterns Patch Publishing
November 20th 2007

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CONTENTS:

- What these two virtues can do for YOU...
- A Top Tip for Cross Stitch Heaven... Is your cross stitch fabric stained?
- Recent articles posted at PatternsPatch.com
- Cross Stitch Patterns Uploaded Since The Last Issue
- Recent "Cross Stitch" Forum Posts

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Subject: What these two virtues can do for YOU... 

Hi

... if you just let them into your life. I can best illustrate what I'm talking about by telling you a little about the workshop I attended this past weekend. For those of you who read the previous issue, I mentioned I was making my debut as a guest speaker at an Internet Marketing workshop quite close to my home.

Now there'll be times when reading this editorial you'll think, what's this got to do with Cross Stitch? Initially the answer must be, "Not a lot". But one problem that seems common to many, if not all, stitchers is lack of time for stitching.

If you're saying, "Yup! That's me". Then by embracing these two virtues you'll certainly find more 'me' time to do with as you wish... and we've got a great story to round it off for you too.

OK! Back to the workshop, I was up second on the first day and spoke for a while about membership websites in general, and Patterns Patch in particular (and yes, Cross Stitch got a good airing too). My talk went down well with the audience, and the two hosts seemed pleased too, so I guess we can  call it a success. I have to confess to quite enjoying the experience, but won't be in too much of a hurry for a repeat performance. 

I thoroughly enjoyed all the guest speakers and what a diverse lot they were too: a successful author, an IT whizz, a Public Domain authority, and a successful songwriter, all appeared on the first two days. However, two relative youngsters spoke on the third day and in many ways the hosts had kept the best back for this final day.

Our guest speaker in the morning was a cheerful young woman who'd made huge progress in her life during the past 12 months. Janet simply refuses to let problems get in the way of achieving her goals.

She is SO focussed on what she's trying to achieve that if she cannot simply bulldoze a problem out of the way, she either tackles it from another angle or bypasses it altogether. She'd taken the time to figure out a simple procedure that was successful for her and then focussed on what worked and eliminated what didn't.

What probably impressed her audience the most was her obvious ability to ignore all distractions; a valuable lesson to us all. Her future looks to be exciting and assured ~ go Janet!

The afternoon slot was taken up by a quiet, thoughtful young man who's already made a great success of his business, but who warned us of the many pitfalls just waiting to catch the unwary. He told us a horrendous story of how his Internet business was 'cloned' and stolen from him. It took Max two full years to get his business back and the thief (scamster) out of his life.

When he first realized somebody else was operating 'his' business, he had no idea how to put a stop to it... and neither did any of the people he approached for advice. Oh, there was no shortage of legal firms willing to represent him for a multi thousand dollar retainer. However, he declined and determined to try and solve this one himself.

One wonders how many times he must have felt like giving up, stop wasting time on a hopeless cause and move on to something more rewarding. But not our Max, he was made of sterner stuff than that and kept on battling away determined to get back what was rightfully his and this parasite out of his life.

He persevered when at least 99% of others would have quit. However, with the help of a Government agency and the fact he'd registered his website with the correct body (so he could prove he was the original owner), meant he won in the end.  His perseverance and tenacity were awesome, and inspirational to all who heard his tale.

Max's lesson to those of us with a website of our own: register the website's copyright with a copyright agency. Don't rely on putting a copyright statement on your website, it's completely worthless!

I told this tale to Leni a few hours ago and she replied, "I received this yesterday, how's that for a coincidence."

Use this link to see what Leni meant:

http://www.PatternsPatch.com/snip/158.htm

So there we have it: FOCUS and PERSEVERANCE. Two fine bedfellows we should all welcome into our lives. If you pause and reflect for a couple of minutes, I'll bet YOU can recall occasions when had you tried a little harder and for a little longer you'd have turned something around and in your favor ~ it's never too late!!

        ~~XX~~
               
Every so often we give you one of these cute, warm stories that make you feel all warm and gooey inside, the sort that makes you go Aaw! We gave you a brilliant example of this in the last issue (remember the pilot and the guide dog), and promised to do the same in this issue too. Here goes:

In  1986, Mike Membre was on holiday in Kenya after graduating from  Northwestern University.

On  a hike through the bush, he came across a young bull elephant  standing with one leg raised in the air. The elephant seemed  distressed, so Membre approached it very carefully.

He got down on one knee and inspected the elephant's foot, and found a large piece of wood deeply embedded in it. As carefully and as gently as he could, Membre worked the wood out with his hunting knife, after which the elephant gingerly put down its foot.

The  elephant turned to face the man, and with a rather curious look on its face, stared at him for several tense moments. 

Membre stood frozen, thinking of nothing else but being trampled.  Eventually the elephant trumpeted loudly, turned, and walked away.

Membre never forgot that elephant or the events of that day.

Twenty years later, Membre was walking through the Chicago Zoo with his teenaged son. As they approached the elephant enclosure, one of the creatures turned and walked over to near where Membre and his son Cantri were standing.

The large bull elephant stared at Membre, lifted its front foot off the ground, then put it down. The elephant did that several times then trumpeted loudly, all the while staring at the man. 

Remembering the encounter in 1986, Membre couldn't help wondering if this was the same elephant. Membre summoned up his courage, climbed over the railing and made his way into the enclosure.
He walked right up to the elephant and stared back in wonder.

The elephant trumpeted again, wrapped its trunk around one of Membre's legs and raised him high into the air. And slammed him against the railing, killing him instantly.

Probably wasn't the same elephant, or perhaps someebody gave us the wrong ending.

You were warned last time that this one had a twist in it.

        ~~XX~~

*~*  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:

*~*  Donna Miller  *~*

Congratulations to Donna 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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   Is your cross stitch fabric stained?

Often, the older the stain, the more difficult it is to remove. To remove stains, you need 100% cotton swabs, deionized water, absorbent paper, a clean working surface, bright lighting and patience.

To remove stains, first tamp down with a sponge, but don't rub it or it could affect the fabric. But how you remove stains depends on the kind of stain it is. Here's a lowdown:

* Coffee, tea, fruit juice stains

You can get good results if your fabric is in good condition and you try getting the stain out when fresh. If you use diluted shampoo or dishwashing liquid alternately with white vinegar, you can get rid of the stain.

* Stains from protein foods--eggs, ice cream and milk

Since these foods contain proteins and complex chemical compounds, it's best to wait until the stain dries and then gently brush off the solids. You could use a diluted shampoo and dilute ammonia for good results.

* Stains from inks

Use solvents such as acetone or ethanol, followed by water-based reagents. After they are used separately, begin the water-based treatment, using a mild shampoo and white vinegar with a little glycerine for lubrication.

* Pencil marks

Make a solution of alcohol, water and dish detergent in the ratio of 3:1:1 and apply on the stained portion.
 
Finally, don't wring the fabric of water as this can ruin the weave and threads. Instead, roll it in a towel and let it absorb the excess water. This way, it won't leave any wrinkles.

There's further information on cleaning your cross stitch projects in one of the cross stitch articles below.

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RECENT ARTICLES POSTED AT PATTERNS PATCH:
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1. Decorate Your Home with Santa Claus Counted Cross Stitch Designs.

One of the most recognizable images of Christmas has to be Santa Claus. Counted cross stitch patterns featuring this merry gentleman in his cheery red and white suit are produced in great numbers. You may know Santa by one of his other names, however: Sinterklaas, Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas or Kris Kringle, depending on where in the world you live...

Read the full article by going here:
< http://www.patternspatch.com/public/321.cfm >

   ~X~

2. How To Wash Your Cross Stitch Piece.

Every completed project should be laundered before framing or finishing regardless of the care taken during stitching. Natural oils from your hands enter the fabric during stitching and will eventually appear as stains. Any fabric that isn't clean is also subject to discoloration within a few years...

Read the full article by going here:
< http://www.patternspatch.com/public/298.cfm  >

   ~X~

3. FREE Irish Cross Stitch Patterns: Top 5 Finds on the Internet.

When we think 'Ireland' we think 'Celtic' with its ornate crosses, beautiful calligraphy and intricate knot work. Cross stitching Celtic patterns can bring a sense of achievement like nothing else and the finished pieces always look so professional too...

Read the full article by going here:
< http://www.patternspatch.com/public/152.cfm >

   ~X~

This is just a small sample of the more than 180 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/342.cfm >

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

Some of you might remember we were a pattern short in the last issue, well to make up for it Leni's produced an extra pattern in this issue; so you've seven to check out this time.

   ~X~

 ** Patterns For Members Only **

- "A Little Afternoon Tea"

- "Saying Prayers With Her Guardian Angel"
 
- "Shall I Carry You?"

- "Sisters"

- "The Pink Roses Lady"

- "The Stalking Cheetah" by Riaan

 ** BONUS Download for ALL Readers **

- "Waiting For Santa"

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

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

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
Cross Stitch Library.

   ~X~

We're trying to introduce as wide a range as possible in the
cross stitch 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/342.cfm >

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RECENT "CROSS STITCH FORUM" POSTS
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The 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. Have "samplers" faded away??
   
Member "sagemother" posted this query, which, so far has
attracted 25 replies.
   
"Do people stitch samplers anymore or is it something that has faded into bygone days?"

 ------------------------------------

"I have several patterns for samplers but they are not the traditional ones. I think the purpose of the original ones was to teach the stitcher all the basis embroidery stitches... basically it was a training exercise."

"... they didn't have books with patterns back when samplers were "popular." The skill was something that was passed down from mother to daughter, and they were usually unique because of the person doing them. I think they're beautiful, and can be quite costly if you find an old one that was made in the 1800s or earlier."

"I believe I've seen them using other handicrafts besides just cross stitch, as well. They always amazed me because they were made with handmade, hand dyed threads. Just beautiful!"

"Probably one of the reasons they are not used much today to teach is that it is quite a long, involved project. Most beginners today want to start on smaller, simpler projects... we live in an 'instant society'!"

"... we do want instant gratification on most everything in life. My mom always told me anything worth having was worth working for, so I'm trying to teach that to my boys instead of learning that everything should be handed to them without effort. So far, so good. But they're still young!"
   
"Our society is structured so differently today as compared to 100 years ago... our priorities have definitely changed! There are so many distractions that there is never time to devote to projects (although there seems to be plenty of time to spend on computer games!) We also live at such a fast pace that children become bored if things take a while to complete. But I think it is so important to teach these skills to the younger generation."

"I foresee a time in the future when these skills might become vital again. With prices the way they are, and the way companies treat loyal employees, being able to work with your hands, creating items that you can sell, providing things for yourself and / or your family, and developing lost skills will improve the quality of life while creating an independence that is a hedge against changes in the workplace along with easing the financial burdens that are the result of aging..."

"... If my memory serves me right, Mothers used to teach their Daughters to "keep house", and one of things that needed done was sewing, and the best way to learn is to do, so the young women would pratice by making a sampler.....they were simple, mostly the alphabet and number, maybe a saying or Bible verse "

"You're memory is good! It was my good fortune to have a Mother who taught sewing to my sister and me. She also made sure all five of my brothers could do simple mending and replace lost buttons. What a shame that many mothers are too busy to teach their daughters to keep house and sew..."

"We stitchers need to make sure our craft isn't a dying art!..."

Read the full discussion here:
http://www.PatternsPatch.com/snip/157.htm  
 
    ~X~  

2. What Gets YOU Motivated?
   
Member "slckstitcher" posted this query, which, so far has
attracted 38 replies.

"when you're working on a piece that you just don't want to do, how do you stay motivated in order to complete it?"

"...Usually I try to do 3 needles worth of work on such a project before allowing myself to work on something more enjoyable. Just wondering if there's a better motivational system out there though, as this is getting old and I still feel like I'm getting nowhere on this piece..."

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

"Sometimes it's good to just chuck a project and, since it's a gift, you might substitute a different piece, assuming your friend doesn't have her heart set on what you have started."

... I know what you mean...that's one of my main problems....not enough time to do what I need to do let alone the things I want to do."

"... that's a great suggestion. I will definitely try that and see what happens. I've tried everything else I could think of, maybe this will be the one thing that works for me!! Thanks for the suggestions and for the other compliments you've been posting for me! They're all greatly appreciated! "

"It also seems to help when I think of giving the gift and the joy it will bring...Just set reachable (not overwhelming) goals and enjoy the feeling of accomplishment."

"I find that if I am making something to give as a gift and want to present it to the person for a certain occasion that I don't mind working on it more..."

"I wish I could give you the magic formula for helping to keep you motivated, I haven't had a lot of luck myself, so you're probably better off with other people's advice. However, I would say work on it when you feel your best, do what you can, then move on after a while."

"That is a good way to motivate yourself. It's doubly rewarding to finish a project and then have something self indulgent as a reward."

"Maybe I can implement more than one of the ideas here..."

"I want to have it done by the end of the summer. That's my first goal..."

"In the meantime, maybe I can set a goal for myself where if I stitch a certain amount of hours, I can get an extra special treat for myself (my favorite shortbread cookies, a cupcake, etc. something like that)..."

"That just might work for me!! I'll really really want the treat, so I'll have to do the work before I get to eat it!"

"I think I have a plan everyone! Now let's see how well I can stick to it. I'll fine tune the details over the weekend and then get started on Monday with it!!"

"I'll keep you posted. Thank you all so much for your wonderful ideas and your encouragement/support! I appreciate it so much!"

I'll get these Kitties done yet!"

Read the full discussion here:
http://www.PatternsPatch.com/snip/156.htm

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When our membership grows to a certain level we'll be able to
approach major suppliers and manufacturers and negotiate
discounts for our members. So please 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
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... 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
TUESDAY December 4th 2007.
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Missed an issue of our Cross Stitch Tips & News letter?  Find them
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< http://www.patternspatch.com/public/department27.cfm >
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