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Metallic thread is a notorious headache, but I have finally found a combination of things that makes it behave like regular thread. Here are my secrets. $$$ Try putting your metallic thread in the fridge before you stitch. I’m not entirely sure this helped, but it’s worth a try because I feel like it kind of did. $$$ Use a lot of Thread Heaven (or as I call it, Thread Lube). It’s a type of wax which will help your metallic thread glide smoother. $$$ I always pair a strand of metallic thread (I prefer this kind) with one strand...

WOW. How did they pull this off? Award-winning digital and direct marketing agency, LIDA created this direct mail campaign called IKEA Handcrafted. I am completely wowed! Surely it's machine stitching. More of the story here.

We have so many options for fall and Halloween. The most popular, taking the internet by storm, is this one - based on the hilarious McSweeney's article. But there's more! Available as kits and PDFs. Check the NEW page for all the latest. And in PDFs: Quite a collection! Get to it, time's a wastin'!

photo and stitching by Shannon Downey of Badass Cross Stitch. One of my favorite people, the awesome Shannon Downey of BadAss Cross Stitch, has created an amazing opportunity for you to participate in some craftivism to help End Gun Violence. And she's done it in that super-savvy, clever way that she is just so good at -- connecting craft and cause. As Shannon explains on her site: "I was simply stitching elaborate guns as a way to process my own feelings around the prevalence of gun violence both in our country and especially in the city I love, Chicago. I’ve...

Check out this gorgeous pattern! If stitched on 14-count material, it'll measure just over 9 inches square. I think it'd make a great pillow. I will be stitching it shortly, but I wanted to go ahead and get it out there as I think it's a challenge and just in time to while away the rest of the summer. How can you NOT? ;)