34 The World of Cross Stitching http://www.cross-stitching.com
Your Questions Answered
In the spotlight
LINDA DAWSON, COTTAGE NEEDLECRAFTS
Military plaques
Q
I’m looking for a birth sampler with
an army theme. Can you help?
Anna K J, via FacebookA
Linda says: Here at Cottage
Needlecrafts*, we design cross
stitch samplers for many different
occasions such as births, christenings,
weddings and anniversaries. We cover a
wide selection of themes – including
military – and can chart any name, add a
personalised message or details such as
the birth weight and time, before
supplying it as a complete cross stitch kit.
As they are personalised, it means weTo hoop or not to hoop?
Q
I’ve never used evenweave before – should I use a hoop
for this, as I don’t ever use one with aida?
Hollyredfern, via InstagramA
Fiona says: Using a hoop or frame for stitching with
any fabric really just comes down to personal preference.
While I’d always recommend doing so myself, not all stitchers
get on with them. If you use the sewing method (where you
make each arm of the stitch in a single motion), then you can’t
use a hoop, as you won’t be able to fold the fabric in order to
make the stitches. The main benefit of using a hoop is to keep
your fabric’s tension even as you stitch, which is especially
helpful for evenweave, as the looser weave can easily become
distorted. Maybe give it a try though, and see how you get
on. Browse DMC* to see a range of embroidery hoops.Searching for Winnie the Pooh
Q
I am looking for a chart of Designer Stitches ‘Winnie the
Pooh and Friends’ (D117). I have had this kit for a long time
but only opened it today and unfortunately there is only the first
half of the chart enclosed. I know that the company no longer
exists but I am hoping that I can still get hold of the same kit?
Sheila Smith, via FacebookA
Hannah says: I’m afraid with discontinued kits such as
this, you’ll need to look for third party sellers, such as on
eBay. Always check the description for what you’re buying
though, to make sure it’s what you expect, and only purchase
from reputable sellers. Another option would be to ask our
fantastic Facebook group – just search for ‘cross-stitching.com’.can change the
colour of the
uniforms or include
any flags, appropriate military vehicles
and other little details. We also offer the
option of both British and American
armed service themes, as we do
worldwide delivery. The kits come with a
choice of DMC Ecru coloured fabric,
threads, a full colour chart, key, needle
and instructions. To order, email
[email protected]
with your requirements. We then send
you a quote and, once payment has
been received, will email you a preview
of the design to check, before sending.Military plaques
Cottage Needlecrafts produce personalised
charts, individually designed for any occasionQ
Are the DMC and
Anchor threads fade
resistant, even after washing?
30gingercookies,
via InstagramA
Heather says: Both
DMC and Anchor state
that their stranded cotton
threads are manufactured to
be washable and fade
resistant, as they use
colourfast dyes that shouldn’t
run when washed, or fade
with exposure to light. You do
need to take into account the
fabric it is stitched onto
however, as the same may not
be the case for that. The DMC
website recommends washing
with a mild soap, then to wrap
your stitching in a towel to
remove any excess water,
before drying flat on a clean
cloth. Whilst still damp, ironon the reverse side, making
sure the temperature is
suitable for the fabric. Another
thing to consider is the way in
which it is displayed as,
although the threads are fade
resistant, conditions such as
condensation (especially if
displayed under glass),
exposure to heat sources and
using non acid-free mount
board and tape can be
known to cause
discolouration.Fabulous fade-resistant threads
To hoop or not to hoop?
Using a hoop or frame can help
keep your fabric’s tensionFabulous fade-resistant threads
Your DMC and Anchor threads shouldn’t
fade if you follow the care instructions