stitch swap: pattern ideas

(Image by Rachel of Stitched in Color.)

Already so many of you have gotten started on your work for the Stitch Swap. It's really been so fun to see and hear about your progress! But for those still figuring out exactly what you're going to stitch (I'm in this group!), I thought I'd share some ideas and resources.

First of all, there were two favorite motifs that stood out because so many people listed them: owls and geometric designs. Have I mentioned that I have a new Little Owls embroidery pattern for just $2? No pressure though...wink, wink. Geometric designs are another thing. I've seen lots of inspiration, but not a ton of patterns available. But then, silly me...I forgot about how geometric Sashiko is!

The coasters pictured above are from Stitched in Color. Rachel is an amazing quilter, usually tackling large projects and completing them in record time. This is one of her smaller pieces, and one that I could actually handle! It inspired me to suggest that for those looking for some geometry in their embroidery, look to Sashiko! A google search will find some ideas, or here are some free patterns from About.com. You wouldn't even need to stitch them traditionally, but use them as a starting point and do some fill stitches or other favorites!

For those wanting to stitch something a bit different, without spending much, here are some more links:

Free patterns on Flickr

A new freebie from Sublime Stitching

Traditional style designs from Needle 'n Thread

Bad Bird's free patterns

Free embroidery designs from Cate Anevski

Every post with free Wild Olive patterns

Lots to choose from! Now it's time to choose and start stitching...

ALSO: I'm still looking for Helena from Australia! If you're Helena and you signed up for the swap, please email me!