Cross-Stitch Gets a Facelift!

Something I’ve been noticing a lot of lately is the popular craft of cross-stitching. It’s been popping up on everything from clothing, to home décor, to stationery and even jewelry. But what makes the cross stitch of today, different from that of the past? It’s the imagery. Modern patterns feature graphics taken from video games and pop culture, giving the craft a youthful, more vibrant flair. Most of what I’ve shown here is from the talented peeps over at Etsy. However, I’ve also included some items (below) from prepster retailers Stubbs & Wootton and Smathers & Branson who feature similar looks in their collections. My personal favorites are those sporting the Jolly Roger!


Images Top from {L to R}
Mustache Pin by Neawear
Watermelon Hearts Cross Stitch Earrings by thepinpals
Jolly Roger Cross-stitch by Futuregirl
Cross Stitch Monogram Initial Pocket Mirror by AdandBragButtonCo
Pinky Pin by stitchandplay
Retro Girl by DefiantDamsel
Yellow Bird on Robin's Egg Blue Cross Stitch Pin by thepinpals
Pink Camelia Counted Cross Stitch Pattern by WooHooCrossStitch
Images Bottom {L to R}
Jolly Roger (Black) from Smathers & Branson
Jolly Silver UK Slipper from Stubbs & Wootton

be BOLD this Season!

I am inspired by the cool fusion of a traditional color palette and bold modern design this holiday season. These beautiful, fearless designs make for some really fun holiday decor and shopping!



{burst rug from CB2.com}
{bird pillow from moderndose.com}
{flower arrangement form ovandony.com}
{red greeting by Checkerboard from eInvite.com}
{red pillow from lekkerhome.com}

Go Dutch!

Colorful designs, motifs and symbols reflective of traditional folk art are abundant as of late, on everything ranging from paper goods to home décor, fashion and beyond. Especially popular, are motifs reminiscent of “Pennsylvania Dutch” folk art, such as rosettes, tulips, hearts, doves and goldfinches.

In the 18th century, decorating everyday items with colorful designs was a common practice for the Pennsylvania Dutch. Everything from furniture, to clocks, to birth certificates were decorated with symbols that settlers had first been acquainted with in Europe. Over time, these motifs came to represent Pennsylvania Dutch ideology. They were often used as visual prayers that would protect the home and farm, bring good fortune, abundance and prosperity, or invite guests to be welcome.

Below, are some recurring motifs that I’ve been seeing everywhere this season. For fun, I’ve written a brief description of the Pennsylvania Dutch symbolism for each. So, that the next time you need to buy a house warming gift, order wedding favors, or decorate your home…you’ll be inspired to go Dutch!


• The goldfinch is the good luck bird of the early Pennsylvania Dutch. When shown alone it represents good luck and happiness. When two birds are shown together they symbolize a double measure of good fortune.

• The rosette offers good luck as well.

• Tulips represent faith and trust and when shown in a set of three, represent faith, hope, and charity.

• A heart ensures love and romance.

• A dove symbolizes peace and contentment.

• The eight-pointed star offers abundance.

• Scalloped borders represent smooth sailing.

• The Tree of Life symbolizes a happy life and joyful memories for all.


{Images from left to right: Fleet Red Organic Teatowel from Mibo; Cherry Picking screenprint by Ruth Green; Chicken Stock screenprint on wood panel also from Mibo; Wild Pods Mug by Fiona Howard; Dutch Woodcut Floral Gift Wrap from Papersource; New Wave Acapulco Dinner Plate from Villeroy & Boch; Ceylon Personalized stationery by Checkerboard; Tulip Wallpaper by ISAK; Cockerell two color vinylprint by Sarah Young; 100% Recycled Giftwrap from Rosehip Cards}

Love that Birdie!

Birds are everywhere this season and I’m loving these cute little silhouettes! These shapes are modern, bold and simply adorable.

Here is where I found some favorites:

{Bird whistle on DWR.com}

{Dove ornaments on CB2}

{Personalized stationery by Checkerboard on eInvite.com}

{Bird and tree pillows from soukshop.com}

{Gift tags by Hello Lucky on eInvite.com}

{Bird decals on etsy.com}