Stitch Along with Blackbird Designs

I've been enjoying working on this stitch along pattern from Blackbird Designs.  The pattern is available on their blog and is a free download.  The pattern is based on an antique sampler Alma purchased recently.  You can see the orginal here.  You will see why I was so excited to start this little jewel.  I have never done a stitch along, in fact I have not done cross stitch (of any significance) in 20+ years.  However, I love samplers... I love Blackbird Designs.. so I joined in!  Are you beginning to realize it doesn't take much for me to jump into projects! LOL

The four-sided stitches were new to me and a bit challenging.  Not because they are hard to do, they just take a lot of time compared to a cross stitch.  I am working this on 28 ct. linen, over two threads, with cotton floss.

I find it this to be very relaxing and a nice change of pace from my quilting projects... not that they are being ignored!  It also is easier on my hands. 

Here is my current progress on this little sampler.  I started this the first week in May.  I took the suggestion of Carol over at The Polka Dot Chicken and used a smyrna stitch for the larger alphabet rather than the eyelet stitch the pattern called for. You can't see it in this photo, but I liked the raised stitches.

 

I am looking forward to moving onto the floral border and the numbers.  I also want to personalize it in some way - just haven't decided what that would be...  a different color thread?, a different stitch?  Any suggestions from all you stitchers out there?  I am sure you are much more experienced with cross stitch patterns than I am!

Happy Stitching!

Deb