You know what? I absolutely love giving back to the world…especially the cross stitching world. It’s one of the reasons I maintain this small blog of free cross stitch patterns that is slowly expanding.
Although this past month I only managed two new free cross stitch patterns (see them below), I’ve got a long “wish list” waiting to be designed just for you. I’m trying to block out some extra time for designing. I’ve had more work lately than expected (which is good for the pocketbook) and had lots of extra end-of-summer activities with friends and family.
Charity Stitching and Giving Back
Outside of the free cross stitch designs in this blog, I also enjoy giving back in other ways. If you’ve ever wondered what to do with all your finished stitching projects, here are some fun ideas to stitch and give back! Check out these fantastic organizations. It’s like a great way to be someone’s stitching fairy godmother!
- The Linus Connection – This organization provides blankets and comfort items to children in need. Donating blankets or quilts with cross-stitched elements can be a unique way to support their efforts.
- Project Linus – Similar to The Linus Connection, Project Linus distributes handmade blankets to children in hospitals and shelters. They accept various types of handmade items, including blankets with cross-stitched pieces.
- From the Heart Stitchers – This charity focuses on providing handmade baby items to premature and ill babies in hospitals. Cross-stitched baby blankets or clothing could be a great contribution.
- World of Charity Stitching – This is a group of counted cross stitchers, quilters, and sewists from around the world that make lap quilts, therapy pillows, walker bags, tote bags, wheelchair bags, greeting cards and bookmarks to give to children in need and to the elderly in nursing homes.
- Love Quilts USA – This organization creates quilts for children with serious illnesses. They often incorporate blocks made from various types of needlework, including cross-stitch.
- Hearts for Hospice – According to their site: “When a resident passes away, a heart is placed on the door to remind passersby to be respectful of those mourning. The beautiful needlepoint heart is then given to a family member and becomes a cherished remembrance. Recipients have commented about the thoughtful gesture and the peace it provided.” A full coverage cross stitch heart in the correct size and on the proper canvas would be considered perfect!
- Operation Ornaments – While not specifically focused on cross-stitch, they may appreciate hand stitched holiday ornaments. Their sweet mission is to provide hand-crafted ornaments for people who have lost everything in a disaster such as hurricane, flood, fire, tornado, earthquake, etc.
Before starting any project, it’s a good idea to contact the charity directly to ensure they accept your cross-stitched items and to understand their specific needs and guidelines.
What Was New to the Site in August!
During the dog days of August, I couldn’t resist making a few more “subtle adjustments” to the website design. Let’s face it, I’ll probably never stop tweaking… I mean, who can resist the siren call of perfecting a space that’s user-friendly? And with the growing collection of free patterns, I’m bracing myself for even more design acrobatics. Here’s hoping that as autumn approaches, I’ll miraculously discover a secret stash of extra hours to lavish on the blog.
I was able to unveil two delightful new patterns in August. While I would have loved to create more, I’m not dwelling on it. Time spent hosting guests, enjoying evenings in the backyard by the fire pit, and tending to the flowers took up most of my free time, but in the most enjoyable way.
The New Patterns
Free Beach Front Fairy Hunt 01 Cross Stitch Pattern
New – Free Fairy Beach House 01 cross stitch pattern. Did you know fairies are like ancient celebrities?
Free Hummingbird Splendor 03 Cross Stitch Pattern
Free Hummingbird Splendor 03 cross stitch pattern. Did you know hummingbirds have tongues like the shape of a “W”?
Please Share!
If you found these free cross-stitch patterns and ideas for giving back inspiring, I’d love for you to help spread the word! Sharing this post with your friends, family, or on social media can make a big difference in encouraging more crafters to use their talents for meaningful causes. Together, we can create a ripple effect of generosity and creativity. Thank you for your support and for helping to make a positive impact through your stitching!
Goofin Off Around the Block 