Planning ahead

[kuja.girl]

I like the idea of everyone doing the same pattern for the stitch-a-long; otherwise they're just like challenges with everyone choosing their own patterns.
I have some extra time at the start of this semester - BMH, feel free to hit me up for patterns/help. I can do a custom design if people like that idea too.

[blackmageheart]

Thank you kuja.girl - I might just have to consult you!

Alright, how about something along the lines of this:
We choose a theme, all use the same pattern and if you get that done, you can choose your own pattern but still within the theme. Something like this might accommodate the fast stitchers as well as the slower ones, and also be interesting for everyone. Thoughts?

Also, on another note (this seems like as good a place as any to put it), I was thinking of holding a UFO event, maybe regular events. For those who don't know, UFO = UnFinished Object! Like a weekend or something where we can all get out those unfinished pieces and do a little bit of work on them. Possibly with a prize for the most effort put in! (Although I'll have to work out what that would be )
Would anyone be interested in something like this?

[Knittenkitten]

I kinda like that idea BMH, but would it have to be strictly cross-stitch or game related? Cause I have a few UFOs that aren't either one.

[stitchingmama]

I only have 1 suggestion for the stitch-along. The pattern should have minimal colours (maybe 20?) so that those on a budget can participate. You could also include a pattern with more colours for those with more funds or who like a challenge.

[Pyper]

I like the idea of a(an?) UFO event. I have heaps of projects that I've finished or nearly finished stitching, but that are still waiting to get properly finished off.

I also like the idea of a stitchalong. Particularly based around a smaller size and colour count, with the option to do more if you have time.

[blackmageheart]

...would it have to be strictly cross-stitch or game related?

Nah, just anything you have that needs finishing

I only have 1 suggestion for the stitch-along. The pattern should have minimal colours (maybe 20?) so that those on a budget can participate. You could also include a pattern with more colours for those with more funds or who like a challenge.

I think that would be a good idea, thank you!

[lcockitt]

I really like the UFO event, as I usually have a couple of things that just need minor finishing touches (I knitted a scarf and needed to add 3 beads to it to finish it off - took me over 4 months to put those beads on!)

I also like the idea of a stitch along, although finding a pattern that everyone likes may be tricky! What if a pattern was released for everyone to stitch to, but without the thread colours? That way everyone will (hopefully) have different colours, and could use colours they already have, rather than spending on new ones? Of course, that may make finding a suitable pattern even trickier! Quick stitchers could then redo the pattern in different colours if they wished.

[katdun]

What if a pattern was released for everyone to stitch to, but without the thread colours? That way everyone will (hopefully) have different colours, and could use colours they already have, rather than spending on new ones?

That sounds fun! Same pattern, but everyone's would be unique!

The UFO challenge seems like a great idea. I have a drawer full of those... lol We would just take a picture when we started and after we finished it to judge the progress?

I have to admit I'd be a little sad to see the big swap not happen this year, but I understand all the reasons listed not to have one.

[Yurtle]

LOVE the UFO idea! Love it!! I'm often afraid to look in my cross-stitch drawers. I have projects that I intended to make for other people and now that I don't speak to those people, it's difficult for me to finish it, even though I love the design and would like it for myself. This might just motivate me to take it out and see if I can get over myself!

[Rumelygirl]

A stitch-a-long would be great to participate in!! It would be awesome to see what everyone comes up with if the colours aren't listed. It would also be great to have for those that don't participate in the monthly challenges, but want to be involved more in some way.

The UFO idea is pretty neat as well. I don't really have anything myself other than a plain sock and a sweater that I'm knitting, but I would love to watch how everyone else gets along.

This is such a wonderful community full of positive encouragement that anything that is done will be fun!!