Hi there,
I hope you like our new issue and free gift, out in the shops right now.

The most important part of my job as editor is to make sure every issue is packed full of the things that you want to stitch and read. We love getting your feedback on the magazine through blogs, emails and letters - so keep them coming! We also run regular surveys to make sure you're happy with the content of the magazine. In fact we're doing one right now to a selection of readers (sorry, we couldn't ask all 65,000 of you - it would take us far too long!).

So rest assured, Cross Stitcher is by far the most popular magazine for cross stitchers, and that's exactly how we want it to stay - the best cross stitch designs, the best stitching advice and the best place to find out about all the new stitching products. It's your magazine, aimed at cross stitchers and put together by a team that love cross stitching too.

If you have any thoughts or suggestions about your magazine it would be really helpful if you could jot down your thoughts in a reply to this blog or you can write to me at Cross Stitcher magazine, 30 Monmouth Street, Bath BA1 2BW. I'd love to hear from you!
All the best,
Cathy

Even in this age of online retailers and mail order, there's still something wonderful about a local craft shop – somewhere you can go and browse kits, products and all those wonderful colours of threads, and get to know the staff and fellow crafters. 

I still have fond memories of my local stitching shop in Rhyl when I was a child, and I'm sure the wonderful products I saw there helped inspire me to become the professional crafter I am today!

At Quick&Easy Stitch&Craft we'd love to hear about your favourite craft shop. 

If you fell in love with Maria Diaz's folk art motifs in issue 184 we have a real treat for you. As promised, here are 15 more free for you to download. Enjoy!

Click here to download first set of charts

Click here to download second set of charts

We've featured a whole host of reader guests in many issues now and we have to say we love getting to know you all a bit better! If you've not take part yet then don't delay, get in touch!

Would you like to get a sneak preview at next month's projects, have your say on what you think of new designs or even pick our stitching winners? You can do all this and more as a reader guest and you'll receive a £15 voucher to spend on stitching goodies as a thank you too!

If you'd like to join us as our guest all you need to do is email dearcathy@futurenet.co.uk with your details and a photo of yourself.

Look forward to hearing from you!

Cross Stitcher