Kelly Morgan

Many people who love to cross stitch also love to read? All of the popular cross stitch magazines include free patterns as well as articles by professional stitchers and designers. Even the advertisements provide interesting reading for the stitcher who is always looking for the latest fabrics and floss or equipment to add to their stash. It is possible to combine cross stitch and reading with one magazine.

Several magazines are available for this wonderful cross stitch craft of ours. They are entertaining and informative. Many counted cross stitch magazines contain a regular column dedicated to different stitches and techniques. Learning a new stitch while browsing a magazine is a great alternative to paying for a needlework class.

There are magazines for all stitching levels. A good cross stitch magazine should be suitable for the novice stitcher as well as stitchers with more experience. The best ones include patterns, news articles, and tips. The varied content of cross stitch magazines makes them coveted additions to any stitcher's library.

Each cross stitch publication offers different features. To determine which is best, each stitcher should purchase different magazines to find the ones that closely match his or her interests. Browse through several magazines, comparing them until you find the one that speaks to you. This will reduce the chance of being disappointed with a subscription.

Many stitchers cannot afford a subscription just to evaluate a magazine. Those of us with limited funds would do well to find a stitching buddy who is willing to share. This eliminates having to make a purchase in order to review a magazine. Stitching one of the free patterns to return with the magazine would be a nice thank you to your friend.

Just as with other publications, cross stitch magazines contain articles featuring new products and designs in the market. Cross stitch tools are often compared to assist readers in deciding which ones to purchase. Frequently, there are contests for the best design on a specific theme or to encourage stitchers' creativity in the use of published designs, materials, or embellishments. Occasionally a special issue may include a free kit.

Combine cross stitch and reading with one magazine that entertains and inspires creativity. Read about new designers and techniques in the articles.  Stitch one of the free patterns and browse through the advertisements to discover new products. Subscribe to a magazine that combines your passion for counted cross stitch with your love of reading.