Heirloom Christmas Stockings in Cross-Stitch by Better Homes and Gardens Books, Better Homes and Gardens (1995, Paperback)

The finished result is indeed an heirloom. I stitiched 2 of the stockings, one for each sibling, when they were originally published in CS&CC. I still have those issues. The charts proved so popular that initially, they were reissued individually. The stitches used in these design are full cross, half-cross, and fractional stitches - a WHOLE LOT of fractional stitches due to the detail - but absolutely worth the effort. Also straight and back stitches, french knots and some very simple lazy daisy stitches. The original 1991 Music Room chart calls for limited use of Kreinik Balger. It is charted for Anchor and DMC and uses some blended threads as well. These charts are not for the rank beginner, but with just a little experience and patience, most stitchers should have few problems and enjoy the small challenges. You will want to make a working copy to increase the size of the grids to make the details easier to see and stitch. Of all the Christmas things I've made over the many years, these stockings have always been my favorite. I'd not hesitate to stitch another if the opportunity arose. Since my old magazines have yellowed and are well worn with age and handling, having a hardbound book with just the stocking charts would be a real treasure.

I stitched four of these stockings years ago, all different. Two were for my children and two were for a niece and a nephew. They are beautiful and of heirloom quality, and what I really like is they are not "cute" like so many other Christmas patterns for stockings. I knew that I wanted something that my children would love as they grew. Every year when they are brought out to display visitors and the now adult children are captivated by them. The details are incredible however, if you like quick results this is not for you. Definitely for the more experienced cross-stitcher.

I had all the patterns in my Cross Stitch & Country Crafts Magazines.
A friend of mine liked the patterns and when I saw this book, I thought
it would make a nice gift for her.

This book is wonderful. You will not find a better set of designs to make stockings from. The charts are very easy to read, and even though it is an "expert" book, the directions for the special stitches in the back were so clear that even I could pick this up after an almost 20 year cross stitch hiatus.

The designs are timeless and ageless. Your children, friends, and family will be able to use and enjoy these for their entire lives.