I finished the first motif and did six whole cross-stitches on the one below it.
Last week I had the Aida cloth in a hoop and had used binder clips to keep the extra fabric out of the way. That quickly got cumbersome and heavy so I ordered a scroll frame. The Aida cloth is 29"x25" so the scroll frame was even more cumbersome and heavy.
I returned the scroll frame and decided to try this for Plan B. I'm going to try and go back to the hoop (maybe a slightly larger one) and then I can use the "Universal Craft Stand" pictured below to hold the hoop. I may still have to pin the extra cloth out of the way, but I have high hopes that it will work because I won't have to hold the weight of the hoop myself.
I wanted something that would allow me to work on this piece because I really like it and wasn't quite ready to give up yet. It didn't even cost much from Amazon, so I hope to assemble the stand later today, get my sampler back in a hoop, and get back to stitching. Fingers crossed that Plan B works!
I hope you find a solution that works for you so you can do some more beautiful stitching!
ReplyDeleteI am nodding along with Sarah... I really hope you find a work around for your stitching!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful start to your stitching, Bonny! I hope your stand helps you stitch more comfortably. "Managing" all the fabric and a hoop can be so cumbersome. I'll bet once you find your sweet spot of comfort, you'll be flying on this project. It's such a gorgeous project!
ReplyDeleteThat's a good start! It takes me a while to find the perfect set up when I start a project. I think I have every size frame or stand they make and each one has its limitations. I have that stand and it does come in handy if you are using a hoop or a light frame. I'm using mine with my needlepoint project right now.
ReplyDeleteI tend to overthink things, but I didn't consider any details (size and that I really had no cross-stitch "equipment") when I bought this pattern. I did get the stand put together and I think it will work much better with the hoop now that I don't have to support any of the weight of the piece. We'll see ...
DeleteIt's so pretty! Back when I did a lot of counted cross stitch I never used a hoop, I would roll the fabric and hold it in my hand. It sounds like your project might be too big for that but I just thought I'd throw that out there.
ReplyDeleteThat's nice! I've been collecting needlework projects/cross stittch during the past few years but haven't started any yet. This looks helpful. Would love a post about the most helpful accessories any stitcher should have on hand.
ReplyDeleteAs you may have read above, I did get the stand together and it seems to work well so far. I'll keep your idea in mind for a future post about accessories. I'm no expert but I can certainly explain what items work for me.
DeleteI have saved that stand for the future. Thanks for considering a future post.
DeleteHere is hoping your Plan B works well for you. I do think it is important to be comfortable while stitching - regardless of the size of needles. The proper tools for the job are a worthwhile investment.
ReplyDeleteI hope it works for you! Your first motif looks nice!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Debbie! So far, so good!
DeleteI used to work on some pretty large pieces back in the day and was always rearranging/managing the "extra." I think I'd usually fold or roll it and use pins to keep it secured (if possible). That stand looks cool & I'm looking forward to hearing how you like it.
ReplyDeleteLovely work, by the way. ;)
I hope the stand works well for you, Bonny. Your motif is quite lovely. My workaround for using a frame is to prop it up in my lap and put a pillow under the far end so that I can stitch beneath it. I'm anxious to see how you like your stand after you have used it for a while. Report back!
ReplyDeletemay plan B be the solution and cure!!
ReplyDelete