You may have heard that we have a brand spanking new class at Tea and Crafting - cross stitch yourself a contemporary cushion cover! This isn't your normal cross stitching pattern and materials - we've supersized the canvas and stitches making this a quick project to complete (and just in time for Christmas too).

Cross stitching goes way back! It is thought to be one of the oldest forms of embroidery and can be dated back to the 6th century (so just as old as a those tins in the back of the cupboard then). It’s a craft that has consistently been developing, it started in Asia and has been travelling the world ever since, with each community interpreting it in it’s own way - it’s even been found in an Egyptian crypt!

Cross stitch in Europe mainly evolved to have an educational role; it taught young girls their alphabet and numbers as well has how to decorate linens and cloths, something that would come in handy if/when employed into a household (don't even get me started ... ) and so because of this cross stitch somewhat evolved into a ‘woman’s activity’. 

But now cross-stitch is being completely re-hauled, with floss-tubers (I’ll come back to those), contemporary patterns and it even being integrated into fashion. This is a craft that has - quite literally - come from dark ages and been turned into a modern, unique and beautiful craft for everyone to enjoy. What more is there to love? Now, floss-tubers, let’s talk about those. Floss-tubers are the wonderful community on YouTube that dedicate many hours to making videos talking all about this wonderful craft, so if you’re keen to find out more then I urge you to find some floss-tubers to inspire you!

So if you want to be part of the next generation of cross-stitchers, come on down to our new class at our Covent Garden crafting haven and learn how to cross stitch yourself a cushion cover! You will get EVERYTHING you need to start and complete your kit (apart from the cushion insert). But once you know the basics this is a really enjoyable craft and once you've crossed stitched large - you won't want to go back to the traditional Aida cloth you may already be familiar with. For more information check out our workshop here.

And if you like the idea super sizing your crafting, have you checked out our Arm Knitting Workshop to knit a blanket with your arms? We use super sized wool and replace needles with your arms to complete a blanket within a couple of hours. Want to know more? Check out our Arm Knitting workshops here.