The afternoon sun is lingering just a bit longer, the garden is in full bloom, and the evenings are finally warm enough to spend outside. Summer has officially arrived!
There is something deeply peaceful about this time of year. After a busy day, there is nothing better than retreating to the porch with a tall glass of iced tea, settling into a comfortable chair, and letting the rhythmic rhythm of needle and thread take over. As the twilight settles in and the crickets start their evening chorus, pulling up a beautiful design—perhaps a stunning, intricate landscape or a timeless masterpiece adaptation—feels like the ultimate way to unwind.
Summer also brings the wonderful chaos of visits with cherished friends and family. Whether you are hosting a casual backyard gathering, catching up over a cup of coffee, or sharing updates on life, these moments of connection feed the soul. And if you are lucky enough to have fellow creators in your circle, it is the perfect excuse to swap tips, admire each other's progress, and talk shop about our favorite passion.
With the change of season, it is hard to resist the pull of starting a fresh, new stitching project. A blank canvas or a crisp piece of fabric holds so much promise! Summer is also a fantastic time to challenge yourself and learn a new stitching technique. It keeps our craft exciting and gives us a whole new appreciation for what we can create with our own two hands.
Speaking of trying new things, here is a fun question for you: have you ever stitched a needlepoint project from a counted cross stitch pattern?
If you haven't tried it yet, it is an absolute game-changer! Because counted cross stitch patterns are worked from a grid, they translate beautifully onto needlepoint mesh canvas. You can use the exact same chart to create a rich, textured needlepoint piece using beautiful wools or silks. It is a wonderful way to breathe entirely new life into a design you love, play with different thread textures, and expand your stitching horizons.
So, as we head into these beautiful, sun-drenched months, I’d love to hear what is currently sitting in your project bag. Are you sticking with a beloved favorite, or are you ready to dive into something brand new on the porch tonight?
Whatever you are working on, I hope your summer is filled with warmth, laughter, and plenty of quiet hours with your needle and thread. Happy stitching!
Explore our Orenco Originals patterns and choose from a wide variety of subjects—from timeless fine art to cozy vintage illustrations—to find the perfect inspiration for your next project. All Orenco Originals Counted Cross Stitch Patterns are Fully compatible with the PATTERN KEEPER and Markup R-XP Apps.
