From Idea to Stitch

Visual Thinking:

My art starts with a lot of visual thinking. These thoughts are translated to hand-drawn sketches, playing with ideas until one really speaks to me. At the same time, I work on creating a positive or inspirational message —something meaningful for both you and me.

Color Fun:

Once I have the right design and message, I begin to give life to the sketch with color through a variety of mediums. This is where the fun begins! I play around, adding color until it feels right, all while keeping my original vision in mind. My goal is to balance cute and pretty, so you end up with gentle color kindness smiling back at you.

Floss Selection:

DMC® is my floss of choice. Their huge color range can be a bit daunting at first, but I let my mind's eye and the sketch guide me. I aim to keep all my patterns to 10 colors or less (plus black) because I know both of us want to complete our stitching within a reasonable amount of time.

Technical Step:

Next, I import the colored sketch into one of my cross stitch apps to create a traceable pattern. My selected floss colors become my digital "paintbox." Using a stylus, I carefully match each stitch to its corresponding floss color, turning the blank screen into a digital painting. When I'm happy with the layout, I step away for a few days to clear my mind before coming back for a final review.

Hands On:

After making any revisions, it's time for me to stitch the pattern myself. This hands-on step is so important because I want to make sure the stitching experience is easy and enjoyable for both of us. With needle in one hand and pen in the other (for notes along the way), it's my time to experience that same mindful moment of self-care.

Charted Territory:

Finally, I complete the chart, incorporating any tweaks I made during stitching. Once the adjustments are done, I create the PDF and design the digital booklet, ready for you to enjoy.

Personal Touch:

For me, it’s not just about creating a pattern and calling it done. Each design is built around a carefully written affirmation to empower self-positive or promote mindfulness. To make it extra special, I include a letter page written from my heart, offering encouragement and kindness connected to the quote I chose. It’s my way of making sure the experience feels personal and meaningful —not just another project.

Be well. Be kind. Be a joyful cross stitcher.

Susan

Empower. Inspire. Nurture.

From Idea to Stitch

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