X Stitch – Book Review

The UK seems way ahead of America with needle craft trends. There are so many amazing embroiderers and cross stitchers in the UK and one that I’ve admired for a long time is Sarah Fordham.
I was so excited when she wrote her first book X Stitch, and even more excited when I received a review copy!

Sarah shows that cross stitching can be fun and different and doesn’t have to be traditional samplers, you can do so much with cross stitch!

I love these graph paper drawn images of the different cross stitching supplies. Sarah does a great job adding in her own humor and personality, I love her description of the sewing box.

There are many fantastic patterns included, but I think one of the most valuable parts of this book are the instructions on designing your own pattern. There is graph paper of various count Aida cloth that you can copy and work on. I find this so helpful because it’s hard for me to visualize what a 14ct cross stitch will look like when I am designing it on 5ct graph paper.

There are various categories of patterns including but not limited to – Lumber Jack, Gentlemen, Nature, and Pop Art. This book has a jackalope, a narwhal, AND luchador masks? I think I’m in love!

There are different projects depending on your skill level – very easy, easy, and trickier. I really appreciate seeing Sarah’s designs being used in so many different applications, there are so many great ideas of different things you can add cross stitch to. The instructions are all very clear and well written. I really appreciate that there are full projects like sewing your own tote bag instead of just cross stitching on a store bought one.

Her cross stitched shoe project was what inspired me to stitch up a pair of shoes for Evie. I didn’t cross stitch the ones for Evie, but I bought myself a pair that I intend to stitch on.

Whether you are an experienced cross stitcher or hoping to learn a new craft, this book is a great resource. There’s a wide variety of different patterns and projects and you’re sure to find something that interests you. Plus, the humor and wit that Sarah has sprinkled throughout the book makes it a joy to read!