Stitch count: 196H x 136W
Model stitched on: 28 count cream Cashel Linen®
Model size: 14" x 9.75"


Description: A border of specialty stitch shells, foamy waves, and frolicking fishes surrounds the classic poem "Footprints in the Sand". Bands of specialty stitches and pearl beads separate the stanzas. The design is done predominantly in ocean blues, accented with ecru, shell pink and gold.

Background Information: The main challenge in designing this piece was trying to come up with something original! This poem has been done in cross stitch several times already, and I was hesitant to do it yet again. But, my publisher seemed to think it would be a good subject, so I took a deep breath and dove in. I decided to make the design a bit on the whimsical side: a foil to the very serious nature of the poem...thus the emphasis (in the border) on the ocean waves and the playful fish. To add interest to what could be alot of very-boring-to-stitch lettering, I designed it to be backstitched over-one, which gives it a bit more "character". The dividing bands break up the lettering and add textural interest...and give the stitcher something new to tackle. The colors for the piece are actually fairly limited, which makes the piece a departure from the norm for me (!).

Stitch count: 199H x 170W
Model stitched on: 14 count white Aida
Model size: 14" x 12"


Description: A colorful winged dragon encircles a medieval island fortress. Since dragons are intensely curious by nature, its attention is drawn to the lighted windows of the tall central tower. Who actually lives in that lonely isolated castle? An exiled king? An imprisoned maiden? Or maybe a wizard?

Background Information: Castles and dragons have always fascinated me, and, since they are both the stuff of legend, it seemed natural to combine the two. I tried to portray the dragon as I envision dragons to be: huge, curious, and totally inscrutable. I don't see them as threatening or evil... merely mysterious. Not everyone shares that view, however! Quite a bit of controvery surrounded this design when it was first released: it was thought by some to be demonic in nature because the dragon was designed with three-toed feet. Apparently, (and I had no idea that this was the case) three toes signify a demonic dragon, four toes means the dragon is of the mythical variety, and five toes identifies it as the Chinese type. Although I did redesign my dragon to have the fourth toe visible at the proper places, and altered the chart to reflect this, the leaflet cover photography was not redone. Hence, it would appear that my dragon's reputation remains in question...

Stitch count: 208H x 236W
Model stitched on: 28 count antique white Monaco from Charles Craft
Model size: @ 14.85" x 16.85"


Description: Two elusive woodland creatures converse amidst the ferns, ladyslippers, violets and mushrooms! The faerie's dress is done in shades of yellow; her multicolored wings have a hint of shimmer. The faerie's skin including face is stitched over-one. The almost solid-stitched design is finished with an airy floral border.


Background Information: I live in the mountains of north-central Pennsylvania, so am surrounded by beautiful woodland. All of the flora in this design is found in my own "backyard" (literally!)...as is the mouse. And although I've not seen her in person, I'm sure the faerie is there as well!

Stitch count: 167H x 167W
Model stitched on: 28 count antique white Monaco from Charles Craft
Model size: 13-3/8" x 13-3/8"


Description: This design features an elegant long-haired cat, probably a Birman, sitting quietly inside an elaborate Persian-inspired floral border. The dramatic blue eyes are stitched over-one, and stare back at you, following your every move.


Background Information: For all you cat lovers out there, a tribute to the self-contained elegance and regal superiority of which only a cat is capable! Fascinating creatures, cats of all sizes have captivated the hearts and imaginations of human beings for millennia. One of my favorite quotes involving cats goes something like this: "Thousands of years ago, cats were worshipped as gods. Cats have never forgotten this." Pretty much says it all, don't you think?

This design is from Dragon Dreams. I really want this chart, but have not been able to locate it. If you have this chart or know where I can purchase it then please contact me at hevstitch@gmail.com. Thanks.