Iris Paintbox cross stitch folk embroidery kit

$80.00 USD

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Format Kit Paper Pattern

The Iris Paintbox cross stitch folk embroidery kit has a wonderful origin story: a friend purchased an embroidered table scarf from a needleworker in the Agrinio area of mainland Greece in the 1970s, itself inspired by a folk costume, and when I first saw it, I was completely captivated--it was so historical yet so modern. As soon as I started stitching it, I could barely believe these simple little color boxes created this amazing geometric effect when set within a framework of traditional terra cotta and black. Several years later, I was delighted to travel to the Arachova region of Greece and see the regional folk costume from which this type of embroidery originated firsthand.

This is the folk embroidery I think of as my signature. The palette is truly unique, and the way those small geometric elements build into something truly magnificent is one of the great pleasures of folk embroidery.

What you'll make: A 17 x 28" table runner

What's in your kit:

One 19 x 30" piece of 26ct 100% cotton Traditional Groundcloth in natural
DMC 6-strand embroidery floss
John James size 24 cross stitch needle
Full color chart and instructions

Stitches used: Cross stitch, backstitch Skill level: Intermediate (if you're a beginner and would like to try this design in a smaller format, it is also available as BitKit Iris Paintbox) Stitch count: 18,831 cross stitches, 20,886 backstitches (190 x 341 stitch area)

What does "intermediate" mean for this kit?

It means you're ready to settle into a project that will give you many enjoyable stitching sessions. This is one of my larger, heirloom-worthy designs. None of my kits use advanced embroidery techniques, so intermediate here is about scale rather than difficulty.

Please note: the drawn thread hem finishing shown in the photos has to be done after the design is stitched; the fabric in your kit will come with the raw edges serged so they don't unravel while you are stitching.

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Historically-inspired, modern-made!

Avlea Folk Embroidery brings ancient beauty to the modern world with beautiful folk embroidery kits of the finest quality. I design and make each kit by hand in my Central Oregon studio, to give you a wonderful stitching experience no matter your skill level.

Why is folk fabric so special?

Folk fabrics have been used for hundreds of years to make folk costumes and household embroideries. When you work a cross stitch design on them, they give your stitching a beautiful texture and are a delight to stitch on, plus they're made to stand up to daily use. I source mine from a 3rd-generation family mill in Athens, Greece so you can have an authentic stitching experience.

What if I'm new to cross stitch?

One of the wonderful things about cross stitch folk embroidery is that you can learn how to do it in a couple of hours and enjoy it for a lifetime! If you're new, watch my How To Cross Stitch video to get started on your folk embroidery journey.

How to videos

So, you've been stitching a while now?

I can't wait to share traditional folk embroidery with you! The intricate designs, the unique color palettes, the wonderful texture of folk fabrics will provide you with stitching joy. I suggest browsing my Runners & Squares sections as they have the most intricate designs to appeal to an experienced stitcher and every design is available as a kit or a PDF pattern.

Cross stitch runners & squares

Such a relaxing project! I love the repetitive pattern. I did find that the length of the fabric was just a bit short if I want to allow 2" for the border. But part of the fun of needlework is to adjust the pattern when necessary.

I thought the colors in the pictures online were very pretty which is what drew me to the kit. But seeing the combo in person--and this is just the threads--makes me quite eager to complete a project in progress so I can begin this one. The fabric, as I've come to expect from Avlea, is also gorgeous.

The design is great. The materials, not so much. I have been doing cross stitch for decades, with all types of materials. 1) Choosing this "groundcloth" is not the best choice. The weave is so uneven that this experienced stitcher has to go very very slowly. 2) The color palette with the descriptive (but unhelpful) DMC names, and in a tiny print, was not an asset. Luckily I had enough DMC floss on hand that I could look up the color numbers and sort out which was which. A chart printed with symbol letters instead of confusing colors From your chart (too many similar reds, etc.) would be easier to follow. I like your concept and your designs. In future I will just order the pattern, and pick my own material and floss.

The Traditional Groundcloth that I use in this kit is a natural cotton groundcloth and is a modern reproduction of historic, hand-woven textiles that were used for this kind of embroidery. This natural texture is considered the whole reason to use this fabric, but I completely understand if you prefer smoother, Aida-type fabrics. You are always welcome to return your kit for a full refund and you can email me at avleaembroidery@gmail.com if you'd like to do that and I want you 100% happy with your purchase! Krista

I love this design and the color palette. I reached out for help with the chart and quickly received a response. I wish I had seen the advice on separating the floss because I made it much more complicated than it was.

Such a beautiful pattern and kit quality and presentation!

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Iris Paintbox cross stitch folk embroidery kit