Unless you're a really quick cross-stitcher, you probably won't be able to make this Spring Flowers cross-stitch picture in time for Mother's Day. But if your mother, grandmother, godmother, aunt or other mother in your life is a stitcher, she's probably on the lookout for a new project. Why not put together a cross-stitch kit that she can enjoy long after the Mother's Day brunch dishes are cleared away?
To create your DIY cross-stitch kit, click here to download and print the Spring Flowers chart. (You can also find the link on my Printable Patterns page.) I recommend using card stock. It will hold up much better than regular printer paper.
Next, assemble the supplies your mom will need to complete the design. You should be able to find all of them at a craft or fabric store. The DMC embroidery floss colors are listed on the chart. You'll need #209 Dark Lavender, #552 Medium Violet, #702 Kelly Green, #726 Light Topaz, #742 Light Tangerine, #815 Medium Garnet, #3818 Ultra Very Dark Emerald Green, #3831 Dark Raspberry. You'll also need Aida fabric (14-count or 18-count) and tapestry needles. (I use size 24 or 26.)
When you've gathered all of your materials, prepare them for packaging. I wound my embroidery floss on cardboard bobbins marked with the color numbers. To make a simple needle minder, I cut a flower shape from lavender felt. An embroidery hoop or frame is another necessity. Although I didn't include them in this kit, a pair of embroidery scissors and a needle threader would also make thoughtful additions.
Now it's time to wrap it all up. I arranged my kit materials in a large plastic bag with a zipper closure. It may not be especially pretty, but it's definitely practical and will keep the floss and fabric clean and dry. When it's gift-giving time, just tuck the kit in a gift bag or large decorative envelope.
