I search the internet for free cross stitch patterns on a weekly basis. And with free I mean really free, not illegal copies. I have found several great patterns and full sites dedicated to patterns, and I would like to share some here.
The first site I would like to share is the Antique Pattern Library. This website shares scans and conversions of old, out of copyright, patterns. These patterns are not only for cross stitching, but also for knitting, crochet, embroidery, etc. There are a few gems on the website. My favourites are the DMC booklets (from around 1900), especially the Point de Croix Nouveau Designs, which are in an Art Nouveau/Art Deco style.
I am planning to use the Nouveau Designs booklet to make a piece consisting mainly of the beautiful borders featured there, they are too beautiful to not be used.
I am writing because you live in Horn. I visited there a few years ago and found a lovely shop that had needlework projects and card making supplies. A friend will be visiting Hoorn in a few weeks and I would like to be able to direct her to this shop. Can you help me? It wasn’t too far from the center of town. Thanks so much. Rosalie