| The amount of valuable stitching time I must have | | | | Finished fabric size 3.5"x3.5" (9x9 cm) |
| wasted looking for my scissors. They had dropped | | | | Stranded Cotton |
| onto the floor or slid down the side of a cushion or | | | | Size 24 needle |
| under fabric in my workbox amazing the places I | | | | Backing fabric 3.5"x3.5" (9x9 cm) to match the cross |
| would find them. Since making my keep I have always | | | | stitch piece. |
| known where to find my scissors. | | | | Sewing needle and cotton |
| There are kits available on the market for counted | | | | 2oz wadding the same size as the finished cross |
| cross stitch keeps but it is more personal if you make | | | | stitch. |
| your own. Using leftover fabric and threads from the | | | | Ribbon 18" (46cm) |
| workbox is more economical. | | | | Making up the Scissor Keep: |
| When choosing your threads it is best to choose bold | | | | 1. With right sides facing stitch three sides of the keep. |
| colours so the keep stands out. | | | | This leaves one side open. |
| Fabric choice will depend on the counts you have | | | | 2. Turn the right sides out and gently press with a |
| available 28 count over two threads gives a more | | | | warm iron. |
| delicate finish to the design. When finishing it is more | | | | 3. Put the wadding in the centre and slip stitch the |
| flexible for stitching the seams. Instead of making one | | | | opening. |
| side in cross stitch both sides can be of matching or | | | | 4. At the corner double the ribbon and place the two |
| contrasting designs. This is an alternative to using a | | | | ends inside and complete the stitching. |
| backing fabric. | | | | Within a few hours you have achieved a useful |
| Materials required: | | | | addition to your workbox and should always be able to |
| 14 HPI aida fabric or 28 count eavenweave over two | | | | find your scissors. |
| threads. | | | | |