Our stitchable snowflake garland kit from issue 257 has certainly proved a hit with you guys - we've had countless emails and messages asking how you can get your hands on more!

Unfortunately the stars aren't available to buy, but it's easy to make your own. Choose some plain card that's not too thick, then follow our step-by-step guide to making it stitchable.

Step one: Begin with a scrap of aida  - use 11 count for as close a fit to our original template as possible. Using your chart and a sharp pencil, draw crosses over each block to be stitched.

For some stitchers, the thought of turning on a sewing machine or even choosing fabrics fills them with fear, but with our easy how-to guides you'll be stitching and sewing your way through these easy accessories - in no time at all!

We can't think of a better way to show off your cross stitched designs than on the front of a bag... can you?

In CrossStitcher issue 215 we featured a really cute set of Momiji dolls, which we finished as a trendy shoulder bag. Why not be creative and finish this design as a make-up bag instead? Here are the instructions - so give it a go!

Whether you're a first-time cross stitcher or just want
to brush up your skills, you'll find all you need in Technical Editor
Rebecca Preston's Back to Basics guide. 

Stitching is great fun,
isn't too hard to pick up, is somewhat addictive, and is the perfect
inexpensive hobby... oh, and did we mention it's great fun? Click here
to download Rebecca's guide, and don't forget to keep us posted on what
you've stitched.

If you're about to hit the shops to stock up on your threads why not print these thread lists out and take them with you so you can tell which threads you already have!

These thread lists are great if you're looking to design your own cross stitch pieces too!

Click here to download the Anchor threadlist

Click here to download the DMC threadlist

Lacing your work is a great way to make your design look neat and tidy before you frame it. Take a look below for a step-by-step guide...

If you'd like to have a go at framing your own designs but don't quite know where to start, look below for our simple step-by-step guide!

If you want to decorate a T-shirt or pillow case, using waste canvas is the easiest way to do it. It's simple to do with our step by step guide.

Taking photos of you and your work is a lovely way to remember all the different projects you've done – and it's simple to get the perfect photo if you bear the followings tips in mind...

1. Give your stitching a quick press before you photograph it to iron out fabric folds or creases, which can create shadows.

2. Take your photo before framing with glass to prevent reflections

3. A busy background to your stitching can detract from the design – keep it simple!

4. Natural light is flattering – take your photos outside when it's sunny.