An Interview with Cross Stitcher - Alice Reeves

Alice when did you first learn to cross stitch?

I've been stitching for over 20 years 

What speciality stitches do you know how to stitch?

I use the french knot,half stitch,quarter stitch,back stitch,railroading and hardanger stitches.

What are some of your favorite projects to stitch?

I enjoy almost every kind of design.Some of my favorite are mermaids, birds, flowers, fairies,elves and horses

Tell us a little about yourself and where you live?
 

I'm 54 years old, married with six children, 1 stepson and 5 grands.I started sewing clothes when I was nine years old. I continued in the arts all these years.I'm totally disabled in a wheelchair outside my home.My counted cross stitch helps me keep my sanity (or lose it at times).I enjoy making friends from all over the world. I started pen paling when I was 14 years old and have continued that through the years also.

Who are some of your favorite designers?

We've been blessed by having access to so many beautiful designs.I honestly don't have a favorite as I do such a wide variety of designs from different designers.

What future stitching projects do you have in mind?

Santa's Little Snowman stocking by Stoney Creek,8 more stockings don't know which designs yet,Nouveau Mermaid Series by Heaven and Earth Designs,all the designs in Snow Much Fun by Ursula Michael.I also want to do some landscapes (cottages with colorful flowers).

Why do you love to cross stitch?

Doing the counted cross stitch gives me items I can't purchase,and a feeling of accomplishment upon seeing the completed item. It makes great heirloom gifts for the family. 

What are you currently stitching?

 I'm currently stitching Mermaid Heaven by PINN

Is there any advice you can give our stitchers who are beginning to learn how to cross stitch?

I would suggest starting with small projects so you won't become fustrated with it taking to long to finish a project. As you become more comfortable with stitching get larger projects.I think sometimes because of the beautiful designs the difficult level is to high for beginners.

What is your favorite fabric to cross stitch on?

 I mainly stitch on 14 to 18 count aida cloth.My eye site doesn't work so good on the smaller size.

What type of floss do you like to stitch with and what cross stitch sites do you like to visit?

 I use DMC floss only. Some of the cross stitch sites I like to visit are Herrschners,www.abcstitch.com,www.stoneycreek.com, White Willow Stitching and last but not least Heaven and Earth Designs.