When you first start out with a new hobby the tendency is to run before you can walk and cross stitch is no exception. I remember my first attempt, when a cross stitch beginner, it was a large wall hanging of some mice with a grandfather clock and although it was a complete kit, I still hadn't got a clue what I was doing! There were around 30 different colors and millions of stitches to do but I wanted something impressive. Needless to say it didn't take me long to give up on that particular design!

As a cross stitch beginner, you should take the time to learn the craft. Thankfully, it's easy to find the resources you need to learn this skill. A couple of great websites exist that can help you master the basics of cross stitch:

www(dot)yarntree(dot)com/007begin(dot)htm What a fun site this is. There's a cross stitch chart on this site that's free and comes with the directions you need to stitch the pattern. Moreover, the site lists what items you need to buy if you're new to cross stitch. As you explore, you'll discover information on lots of cross stitch topics. You can learn about such topics as fabric choices and how you make your first stitches. Even more advanced stitchers can find something of interest here.

www(dot)caron-net(dot)com/patguide(dot)html When it comes to learning about cross stitch, this second site has lots of valuable information. No matter whether you're new to cross stitch or have been stitching for some time, you'll find helpful hints and information. For instance, you can find ideas on selecting your floss and fabric, along with instructions on how the stitches are created. What's helpful is that new information is added on a regular basis, so you'll want to stop by frequently to find the latest hints.

After you've had a chance to learn some of the basics, you'll want to find a great pattern for your first project. When you're first starting out, you'll want to find a simple pattern. Avoid complicated patterns because they may be too difficult, which may cause you to become discouraged. Instead, look for easy patterns. The question becomes, where should you look? The internet is filled with cross stitch patterns, so where should you start?

Here's a tip--go to www(dot)cross-stitch-academy(dot)com/beginners/beginners(dot)html when you first start looking. This is a great site with eight terrific patterns for beginners. Each pattern has a chart that shows you which colors to use, directions on how to stitch the picture, and an illustration showing how the finished project will look.

The site is so easy to understand that it is suitable for children and what is more, all eight designs are absolutely free to download. There are a couple of simple motifs, a bouquet, a first border pattern, an Easter project, a Christmas project and a pretty little Mothers Day project as well which means there is something for everyone. Also the same site has a number of more advanced patterns for when our beginners gain their feet that include very clear instructions, and a self-explanatory symbol key.

When you get bored by this site, or just too good at stitching, then you can also try www(dot)dltk-kids(dot)com/type/crossstitch (dot)htm where there are loads of free beginner patterns to choose from. Technically this site is a children's site but I regularly visit and download a couple of easy patterns for my cross stitch beginner daughter and the odd one for me.

There are a number of animals to choose from including a dog, a cat, a chicken, a frog, a turtle and a little ladybug. There are also patterns for each of the seasons, a Christmas pattern, a mother's day pattern and a St Patrick's Day pattern. All of the patterns are printable as are the instructions and the floss charts.

The wonderful thing about cross stitch is it's a hobby filled with possibilities. Even if you are a cross stitch beginner, you'll easily be able to find terrific patterns to follow. As your skills increase, even more options will become available. With a little practice and patience, before you know it you'll soon be a cross stitch pro!