Over the lockdown period, we’ve all been looking for ways to fill our now expansive amount of spare time. This has leaned towards activities that will give us a much-needed break from screens.
From work and Zoom meetings, to bingeing the latest crop of Netflix releases, we are spending more time than ever staring at our devices and it’s not good for our general well being - let alone our eyes and skin.
From baking, to cycling, we have taken the opportunity to nail new skills that will see us through social distancing and beyond. One such craft that has seen a huge surge in popularity has been the art of cross stitching. The oldest form of embroidery dating back to the middle ages, it has had a major revamp where millennials are harking back to ancient traditions to counterbalance the ever-expanding digitalisation to create something with their hands.
So, what is cross stitching? It’s a type of sewing using needlepoint where you thread in X-shaped stitches to eventually form a design. It is set on a type of linen or aida cloth that has an even weave gridded construction.
While it was used to embellish the likes of tablecloths and linen, it has now become art work in its own right with fun, kitsch, novelty and even very adult designs. It is one of the easiest forms to learn where brands offer starter packs with simple patterns and all the tools you need to get crafting.
We have gathered our favourite starter sets for beginners and experts alike with eye-catching and playful patterns.
Shop now.
Cactus Mini Cross Stitch Craft Kit - The Make Arcade
For an ode to your plant babies, this cross stitch set helps you craft a cactus design with brightly coloured details and an easy pattern to follow. The mini size belongs in a frame and hung on the wall when you’re finished. The kit contains a needle, aida fabric, threads, hoop and felt.
Shop more designs from The Make Arcade
Stitch Up Look Sharp
We can’t resist a pun and this fun design will put a smile on your face. It’s easier than it looks and contains thread, instructions, a design chart, aida fabric and two needles.
The Make Arcade Mini Flamingo Cross Stitch Kit
Bring a subtle pop of colour to your wall art with your very own flamingo creation in a playful pink hue. The set comes with a wooden hoop, aida fabric, thread, a needle, the pattern and instructions.
Wine Lover Cross Stitch Kit
Pay tribute to your favourite beverage with this fun cross stitch design. The set includes the aida fabric, a needle, the cotton thread, the pattern and a helpful guide for beginners.
You're my Lobster Cross Stitch Kit
Get creative with your Valentine’s or anniversary gift with this Friends lobster analogy set created using cross stitching. The starter pack has everything you need including the fabric, needle, cotton, pattern and handy guide.
Bee Cross Stitch Kit
You won’t bee-lieve how easy it is to create this buzz-worthy design. Puns aside, this small design can be taken on-the-go to pass the time when travelling or when you are relaxing on the sofa. Create the playful pattern using the hoops, aida fabric, thread, needle, pattern and instructions provided.
£15.99 | Not on the High Street
The Make Arcade Mini Rainbow Cross Stitch Kit
A symbol of hope and optimism, bring the rainbow feels into your home with this cross stitch that beginners will nail. The box contains a wooden hoop, aida fabric, threat, needle and ‘how to’ guide.
Sloth Hang In There Cross Stitch Kit
More than ever in the lockdown period, we can find ourselves associating with the sloth. The adorable creature can be recreated in cross stitch form with this kit. Alongside a PDF download for the pattern, you will receive the cotton, needle and aida.
"Fresh Outta F-cks" Mature Cross Stitch Kit
For adults only, we love the contrast of the wholesome association of cross stitching with less than sweet designs like this “Fresh Outta” pattern. The eye-catching pattern is created using a needle, thread set on a handy organiser, aida fabric and an instructional guide, all contained within the kit.
Feminist Cross Stitch Kit
Whether you are gifting the set or the finished product to your closest pal, this Feminist design will be sure to go down a treat. The set contains a hoop, needle, thread, fabric, pattern and beginner’s guide.
Swimming School
As you begin to progress with your cross stitching expertise, you may be looking for a real challenge. Enter this adorable turtle design. The kit contains the bubble printed fabric as well as cotton, needles, a diagram and instructions.
DMC Tiger Pool Counted Cross Stitch Kit 36cm x 43cm
When you’ve nailed the patterns above, set yourself the task of completing this epic design with its intricate detailing. The pack contains instructions, a needle, aida fabric and thread. You will be left with a true work of art.
Embroidery Threads 50 Per Pack
Get creative with your own patterns by simply investing in this set that has 50 different vibrant shades of thread across a rainbow spectrum of colours as well as helpful additions like a pack of needles, a threader, an untwist tool and bobbins.
Verdict:
The Cactus Mini Cross Stitch Craft Kit is a great choice for those starting out in cross stitching and leaves you with a cute design you’ll want to showcase.
