• folk embroidery table runner with geometric pattern
  • folk embroidery table runner with geometric pattern
  • folk embroidery table runner with geometric pattern
  • folk embroidery table runner with geometric pattern
  • folk embroidery table runner with geometric pattern
  • folk embroidery table runner with geometric pattern
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Iris Paintbox cross stitch folk embroidery kit

Iris Paintbox cross stitch folk embroidery kit

$72.00 USD
$72.00 USD
Sale Sold out
Shipping calculated at checkout.

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: Confident Beginner to 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)

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