Review on Dimensions 35213 Gold Collection Hot Air Balloon Glow 🎈 Counted Cross Stitch Kit, 18 Count Ivory Aida, 12'' x 16'' by Linda Diaz

The Dimensions Gold Collection are my favorite cross stitch kits. I'm halfway through sewing Balloon Glow and it's beautiful - the details are rich and very deep. The two I've completed in the past (Cabin Fever, European Bistro) were equally beautiful and fun to sew. HOWEVER I gave in to one called Memory Lane because you had to use too many layers at once which made it difficult to stitch. I've found that some patterns recommend using stretch marks by hand to stretch the fabric as you sew. I personally would not recommend these sets. Includes 2 needles, 18 Aida, large pattern (half pattern on 2 sides) and presorted threads (I put them on my plastic sorter anyway and draw symbols next to each color so I don't have to keep checking the list. Cardboard thin and no holes - instead the threads are glued into the sorter so when you take it out you better have a place to put it back in. [Also I've tried punching holes in the cardboard sorter and it's not very good - too flimsy. Invest in a durable plastic sorter). It's not difficult if you know what you're doing. This is a big project: each took me about 2 years, but of course it depends on how often you embroider. I'm a student, so I sew a lot more during the summer and holidays. Most stitches are done in 2 layers, but some half stitches require 3, 4, or 5 layers. The 5-ply parts can be a bit of a chore, but they're worth the overall result.