Cross stitch software makes it easy(er)

Have you ever wondered how those intricate cross-stitch patterns are designed? The vibrant colors, the meticulous stitches - it's almost like magic, isn't it?

But behind the scenes, there's a fascinating process that brings these works of art to life.

I'm often asked whether I use specialised software to convert photos into cross-stitch charts. While many programs do offer that feature, I don't believe it's the best approach. You see, cross-stitch design is an art form that requires a delicate balance of creativity and technical expertise.

Imagine trying to capture the subtleties of a breathtaking landscape or the nuances of a loved one's portrait with a simple photo conversion. It's nearly impossible to do justice to the depth and richness of the original image.

That's where the true artistry of cross-stitch design comes into play...

My early days of designing

I started designing on graph paper with coloured pencils

Back in the early 1990s, I stumbled upon a creative passion that would change the course of my life.

It started innocently enough - just doodling designs on graph paper with coloured pencils. Little did I know where this humble beginning would lead.

At first, it was merely a hobby to create commemorative samplers for friends and family.

I would painstakingly draw each tiny motif square-by-square, cutting and pasting them into place with scissors and glue sticks. The process was messy, sticky, and incredibly time-consuming. But I was hooked.

My designs started gaining attention from an unexpected quarter.

I had mustered up the courage to submit some of my early works to a needlework magazine on a whim. To my astonishment, they didn't just publish them - they asked me to start designing for them regularly!

Suddenly, what had seemed like a casual creative outlet was taking on a life of its own.

Those simple doodles on graph paper kicked off a professional design career that I could have never predicted. It just goes to show that you never know where a passion pursued may lead you.

My First Computer: A Reluctant Love Story

I never imagined I'd fall in love with a computer.

In fact, the very thought used to terrify me. When my presentation drafts didn't look professional enough, I simply asked my husband for an electric typewriter. Little did I know, he had bigger plans in mind.

He suggested getting a computer instead, certain it would be a worthwhile investment.

I was skeptical - could this cold, unfeeling machine really enhance my creative work? We struck a deal: if I didn't take to computing within three weeks, he'd swap it out, no questions asked.

Those three weeks passed in what felt like the blink of an eye.

By the end, you'd have had to pry that computer from my clenched fists! I had discovered the magic of cross stitch software, which allowed me to print crisp, precise charts instead of submitting my former hand drawn efforts.

From that point, there was no turning back.

I immersed myself in the world of pattern-making programs, always seeking out the latest and greatest. Each new device and app opened up thrilling new creative vistas.

Looking back, I can scarcely believe I once viewed computers as strange, intimidating objects. They've become an indispensable part of my artistic process, endless sources of inspiration.

Who could have predicted this former technophobe would end up head-over-heels for silicon and circuitry?

Me sat at my first computer. I had dark hair at that time!

Cross stitch software for the Mac

Eventually I converted from Windows to Mac computers. I sat the new machine on my desk and vowed not to touch the old one for a week, forcing myself to learn how to do things on the Mac instead.

There was only thing the Mac lacked at that time...

...finding the right cross stitch software was a challenge. It seemed the good ones were only available for Windows PCs. I scoured the internet, trying one program after another, but nothing quite fit the bill. Just when I was about to give up hope, I stumbled upon a hidden gem.

Deep in the recesses of a niche software site, I discovered MacStitch by Ursa Software. At first glance, it seemed too good to be true. A cross stitch program specifically designed for Mac? And not only that, but the company also offered versions for Windows and even the iPad, allowing me to design on-the-go.

With bated breath, I downloaded the trial version, and from the moment I opened it, I knew I had found my cross stitching soulmate. The interface was intuitive, the features comprehensive, and the patterns it produced were works of art.

Guess who's now a happy girl, able to pursue her passion with the perfect tools at her fingertips? This cross stitcher, thanks to the brilliant minds at Ursa Software.

Now for something exciting! Jeff at Ursa has kindly allowed me to offer both versions (Mac and Windows) to you at a discount price. You can use the button underneath to order a copy for yourself.

Do you have a question about charting or designing a pattern of your own?

If you are a budding designer, or just want to chart out a special poem or quote to hang on your wall, I am sure there are questions you would like answered. Unless you know another designer, it is difficult to find those answers isn't it? Well not any longer! You can ask me.

I don't profess to being the fount of all knowledge, but after having been a designer for many years I might just be able to steer you in the right direction. There is no harm in asking is there?...

Give your question a title

Please give me enough information so that I can help you [ ? ]

Upload 1-4 Pictures or Graphics (optional)[ ? ]

Add a Picture/Graphic Caption (optional)

Click here to upload more images (optional)

Author Information (optional)

To receive credit as the author, enter your information below.

Your Name	(first or full name)
Your Location	(e.g., City, State, Country)

Submit Your Contribution

Check box to agree to these submission guidelines.
I am at least 16 years of age.
I understand and accept the privacy policy.
I understand that you will display my submission on your website.

(You can preview and edit on the next page)

What Other Visitors Have Asked

Click below to see questions from other visitors to this page...

Basic 101 how to use Mac Stitch
Hi! My name is Gracie. I’m a budding new cross stitch designer. I have done the graphic paper technique and I wanted to do more. Especially, I want to …

how do I become a better cross stitch designer?
I have done cross stitch in the past, always enjoyed it. Recently i have a growing interested in digital design (not my background either) and someday …

Problem with where to start
16 years ago I made my first two blackwork patterns which happened to be your designs, I realised today: 1 Blackwork stitcher, 6"x4", Lacemaker with …

Cat family tree
Hi, I have cross stitched for many years but I have always used kits and have never designed anything. I have promised to give my sons and all nieces and …

Charting a digitized image
I am working on a design to be done in wool on 12 count Penelope canvas. I found the picture on the internet, it is of a famous icon in the monastery …

Design Libraries in MacStitch and WinStitch
Does the software allow you to create and save small design elements that can be pasted into a new design? As I see things that inspire me I create a …

converting a wedding invitation to cross stitch
I would like to take my niece's wedding invitation and turn it into a cross stitch pattern. Everything I read online says to select an image from your …

Backstitch and outlining in WinStitch
Hello, Carol, I have purchased a Winstitch software yesterday and am now trying to work on my first chart. - the Happiness Fairy. I seem to be having …

Bitten by the Designing Bug
I started cross stitching when I was in high school, back in the late 1970's. I wanted to stitch butterflies and moths but the only patterns I could …

Budding Cross Stitch Designer Needs Advice Not rated yet
Hi There - it was such a pleasure to read your article and your story…it gave me hope that I will find a solution to my design software search!! My …

Tips for exporting MacStitch's charts? Not rated yet
Hi there - I'm so glad I found your site~ YAY! I'm a new designer and have been playing with MacStitch on my iBook - and love it~ I am having some …

Click here to write your own.