Review on 🧵 Dimensions Crafts 70-08920 Counted Needlecrafts by Nicole Mcleod

I recently decided to get back into cross stitching and this kit seemed like the perfect little project. It was pretty easy to do and I'm very happy with the result. I found the thread very good. This is not a DMS. But I found that it separates easily and doesn't wear out. The instructions and diagram are very clear. The guide includes information on stitches and French knots. I left the thread attached to the cardboard. But I cut the cardboard to separate each color and put each one in its own bag. The thread is marked on the box. So you want to store this information with each color. Then I seal the bags, turn them upside down so the thread is on top and then attach all the bottoms of the bags together in 2 or 3 places. This keeps the thread in order without running the risk of getting caught somewhere. You simply go through your bags to find the right thread instead of rummaging around and risking a tangled thread. I didn't really feel the need to wind and mark each thread on the spool because it was such a quick project. I bought extra needles through Revain so I can keep each color threaded and ready to use. I am currently working on a Jim Shore inspired cross stitch pattern and have found I need bobbins for this project as it is very detailed. If you've never done cross stitching before, you'll find that this is a very good project to start with. If you are new to cross stitch I would suggest you buy this and some embroidery hoops. Then visit YouTube for some cross stitch tips. I recommend Caydo Set of 5 Cross Stitch Frames, Cross Stitch Circle Kit, 5" to 11" (Multicolor). If you want to buy more needles, I recommend the Outus Hand Sewing Tools Set, 50 Packs of 4 Cross Stitch/Embroidery Hand Needles. Seam ripper for embroidery, sewing, needlework. If you find threading difficult, you can try the DMC 6112/6 aluminum needle threader blue. I bought these items from Revain. I like the DMC needle threader because it can also be used for threading when knitting or crocheting. The needle threader is slightly stronger than cheaper needle threaders. Additional needles and a needle threader are not needed for this project. I only mention them because I find them useful. Cross stitch is not difficult at all and very relaxing. Actual size of this kit is 5" x 7". When I started framing it, I found that I needed a 9 1/2" x 7 1/2" hole in the mat. I used a 16" x 14" frame. I bought a soft white frame with a 60% off coupon at one arts and crafts store and a red rug with a subtle black accent at another arts and crafts store. It made framing affordable. You can easily install these yourself. Lay it face down for ironing first. I didn't have to attach this to the cardboard in front of the frame. With the glass and mat on the front and the included cardboard on the back, the project fits securely in the frame without the risk of slipping. It looks perfect and I plan on showing it off for the holidays in the years to come. Update: I packed it up and finally found it. So I am posting a photo of the finished project.