Naff cross stitching

[facesquirter]

I love cross stitching and find it relaxing, but hate that all the patterns and kits seem to be really twee and totally naff. Does anyone else have the same problem? I'd like to do more and cross stitch some presents for people, but would feel a bit embarrased handing over a cross-stitched dog/cat/bird etc .

do you have photoshop or gimp? have a serch for a tutorial on how to make a photo ito a cross stitch pattern.

i am going to do one of my sone for my mothers birthday. she will enjoy doing it sooooo much.

I love cross stitching but also hate cats, me to you, hedgehogs etc.

I have gone in the total opposite direction and am a fan of 'subversive cross stitch'

My favourite finished item is a traditional sampler with 'Fuck Cancer' lovingly stitched on it

Also have 'You cant make me' and 'whatever' among others.

Course not everyone would want one as a present.

I will see if I can track down the link (book available on amazon) but its been a while since I bought anything.

I understand your troubles, I spend a lot of time on christmas projects these days as so many patterns are naff.
Have you checked the sewandsew website, there's a lot of patterns/kits there.
American patterns tend to be a bit different although they tend towards a more scary sort of naffness.

I so know what you mean! Or should that be 'sew'?
Ones for babies are ok but that's about it.

Have you tried tapestry cushions? I did a nice one years ago - you can get some ok patters of those I think.

Tried JollyRed?

jollyred

I don't have patience for cross stitch but the designs are almost enough to tempt me!

i've been making my own patterns lately - you can see them on my blog - have just done Alice in Wonderland and Doctor Who - all you need is some graph paper to make up your own designs

blog here

chegirl is this the book you mean?
www.subversivecrossstitch.com/thebook.htm

Have you tried blackwork?
Some kits here but I'm sure there are more inspiring ones out there.