In some of my earlier guides for cross stitching, I mentioned that while there are plenty of beautiful patterns that you can purchase, you can actually find a lot of patterns for free with just a little bit of searching. Today, I wanted to share some of my favorite sites for free cross stitching patterns with you! Each of these sites have different kinds of patterns and all of them are available for download in PDF format. Here are some of my favorites: DMC Free Patterns - These ... [ Read More ]
Cross Stitch Pattern Walkthrough
Last Friday, I posted a brief introduction to the wonderful world of cross stitch. I have a passion for handmade crafts, and needlework in particular is something I've always enjoyed. Cross stitch is one of those super relaxing crafts that doesn't require all that much thought and you can make just about anything. The above image is the pattern I'm going to walk you through today. It's actually the first part of a homemade baby shower gift I'm working on, and once the little guy is born I ... [ Read More ]
Beginner Basic Cross Stitch Tutorial
I love cross stitch. Maybe it spawns from an interest in old-fashioned skills and needlwork, or maybe it's because I have so many fond memories of watching my mother sit in her comfy rocking chair in the evenings, working on some needlework craft or other. Either way, I have a deep love of cross stitch, and I wanted to share with you a brief tutorial on this old-fashioned hobby! Cross stitch is one of the oldest forms of embroidery and cross stitch samplers like the one shown above have been ... [ Read More ]
Melted Snowman Ornament DIY
I know Christmas is almost here, but I wanted to do one last craft post before the big day arrives! These adorable little guys spent way too much time enjoying all of the sunshine we've been getting down here but even melted, they're awfully cute! Here's what you'll need to make one of these ornaments for yourself: Clear plastic or glass ornament - you can buy these at most craft stores around the holidays 1/4 to 1/3 cup sugar or salt 2 - 3 T white glitter funnel that fits your ... [ Read More ]
Thanksgiving Decorations – Staying true to your Homesteading Roots with These HomeMade Decoration Ideas
Keeping in mind what thanksgiving is about, expensive and elaborate decorations seem all wrong, Thanksgiving is about a lot of different things but no less is it about remembering our roots and the ancestors that braved adversity to found our country. To me decorating for thanksgiving should be about getting back to those roots and creating a rustic and homey atmosphere that personifies all the things that we celebrate this holiday for. I have included a few ideas of how you can start your ... [ Read More ]