5 Cool Alternative Cross Stitch Uses

September 01, 2021

While cross stitch is a form of art expressed using fabric and thread, there are many different ways that this has been turned into something much more unique. Here are just some examples of the wonderful cross stitch uses out there in the world… 

CROSS STITCH TATTOOS

There’s nothing like expressing your love of cross stitch by getting something permanently inked into your skin with tiny crosses! This tattoo by @evakrbdk on Instagram is a tulip made up of a variety of pink cross stitches that really compliments the details in the stem and leaves, whilst adding a unique flair to the design. Combining both age-old traditions of body art and cross stitch really is a beautiful example of creativity.

CROSS STITCH CLOTHING

A less permanent way of displaying your love of cross stitch on your body is through the clothes you wear – check out this shirt by Oliver Bonas with a beautiful cross stitch border added to it. The choice of muted thread colours with a splash of red complements the denim blue of the shirt, while the floral border adds an edge of sophistication. Something that would ordinarily be a simple piece of clothing now looks like one of a kind, definitely making you stand out of the crowd. Why not have a go at upgrading some of your own shirts and be part of this fashion trend.

CROSS STITCH SHOES

Why not show off your hobby from your head to your toes with some cool cross stitch trainers? This pair of bright, tropical shoes was stitched up by u/the-alchymsyt on Reddit using motifs from a cross stitch magazine. The vibrant threads would bring together any outfit paired with these trainers, the perfect way to step into summer. Imagine stitching a pair of trainers for every occasion!

CROSS STITCH WALL ART

We all love to proudly hang up our finished cross stitch pieces on our walls, but how about painting on the walls instead? Eline Pellinkhof has a feature in Country Living which shares step-by-step instructions on creating this rose mural. The bright pinks and reds with the cool greens really pop against the white walls and furniture, with each individual cross helping to separate the colours.

You could even make like Sally and paint some cross stitches onto a peg board wall! Design any pattern on paper first, pick up some cheap sample paint pots from your local Wilkos or hardware store and go wild! Using a thin paint brush, simply paint on your half stitches and wait for them to dry before painting over them to complete the 'stitch!'

Instead of a whole wall, just grab one peg board from Ikea or Hobbycraft, paint on your design then use the board to hang your ribbon, hoops, scissors or other crafting supplies! Talk about adding another dimension to your craft room decor.

CROSS STITCH STREET ART

Aheneah has taken cross stitch wall art to a whole other level. Here’s a piece she has created in the city where she grew up in, Vila Franca de Xira, in Portugal. The meaning behind “Switch-over” is: “Every day, for many years, thousands of kids pass by this wall while going from home to school and from school to home. Most of the time just floating in their thoughts, lost in space, time, and routine. Until their paths have to change directions. This happened to me a few years ago.”

Using over 2300 screws and 700 metres of yarn, Aheneah has created a beautiful piece of art with a significant message. She has created many outdoor murals to achieve her goal of bringing together many cultures and generations, which is definitely the joy of cross stitch!

Feeling inspired? Why not shop our range of cross stitch kits and see where your inspiration takes you!

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