Cross stitch and embroidery are close-up crafts: tiny stitches, dozens of thread colors and hours spent holding a hoop. The gifts that land are the ones that make that easier on the eyes and hands, or that add to the thread stash. This guide works for both crafts and is sorted by what each gift does.
Not sure which craft they do? Our guide to cross stitch vs embroidery explains the difference. For other crafts, see our gifts for crafters.
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Quick picks
- The big gift: the DMC 447-skein floss set.
- Hands-free stitching: the Daylight StitchSmart stand.
- For tired eyes: a Brightech or Daylight magnifier lamp.
- A frame they will use: Q-Snap 11 by 11 inch.
- Small add-ons: Gingher scissors and a magnetic needle minder.
Thread
DMC 447 Skeins Cotton Thread
The DMC 447-skein set is a full collection of DMC cotton floss, 447 skeins of 8 meters each. Many cross stitch patterns list DMC color numbers, so a full set means they can start almost any pattern without a trip to the store. Our guide to the best DMC thread colors explains the numbering.
For a smaller gift, the DMC special selection pack has 16 coordinating skeins of 100% cotton floss, each about 8.7 yards.
Seeing the work
Counting threads on fine fabric is hard on the eyes, especially in the evening. A good magnifier light is one of the most useful gifts for a stitcher.
- The Brightech LightView Pro magnifying floor lamp has a 6.5 by 4 inch glass lens on a 24-inch gooseneck, with LED light, and the height adjusts.
- The Daylight Halo Go magnifier lamp is a portable, USB-rechargeable desk magnifier with up to 8 hours per charge, two brightness levels and a 360-degree gooseneck, so it can go to a class or a stitching group.
- For a hands-free option, the YOCTOSUN head magnifier has five interchangeable lenses from 1x to 3.5x and two rechargeable LED lights, and can be worn as glasses or a headband.
Holding the work
The Daylight StitchSmart stand holds a hoop or frame so both hands are free. Its jaw grips the frame securely, the height adjusts, and the frame lifts and rotates a full 360 degrees to reach the back. It is the gift for someone who stitches for hours.
Frames and hoops are always useful, too. Q-Snap frames in 11 by 11 inches, and the smaller 8 by 8 inch Q-Snap, are light PVC tubes with clamps that snap over the fabric to hold it taut. For a classic look, the Nurge beech wood hoop is extra thick with a brass screw, and doubles as a frame for displaying finished work.
Organizing thread
Loose skeins tangle. The ArtBin Floss Finder box is a clear, latching case with compartments and 12 removable dividers, made in the USA, so colors stay sorted and visible. The Epesl floss organizer adds 120 floss bobbins, a bobbin winder and number stickers for every DMC color, in a 36-compartment box.
Small tools
- Gingher 4-inch embroidery scissors have hand-finished forged steel blades, double loop handles for right or left hand and a leather sheath.
- A Quilted Bear magnetic needle minder holds the needle on the fabric between stitches, so it does not get lost.
- Colonial size 24 tapestry needles are English-made tapestry needles, six to a pack.
A kit and a book
For the holidays, the Dimensions Holiday Farm stocking kit makes a 16-inch counted cross stitch stocking on 14-count Aida, with a farm scene, a red truck and a snowman, and an alphabet to add a name. It includes presorted thread, felt backing and wool for the hanger.
For embroiderers, Embroidery: A Step-by-Step Guide to More than 200 Stitches from DK is a reference to keep next to the hoop. Our guide to essential embroidery stitches covers the first ones to learn.
How to choose
If they stitch for long sessions, a stand or a magnifier lamp is the gift they will feel most. If they are always buying thread, the DMC set or an organizer fits. For a beginner, a kit is better than tools; our guide to the best cross stitch kits for beginners has options.
Frequently asked questions
What do you buy someone who does cross stitch?
Thread, light and comfort: a DMC floss set, a magnifier lamp or a hands-free stand. Small gifts such as good scissors and a needle minder are always used.
Are Q-Snap frames better than hoops?
Q-Snaps hold fabric taut with clamps and are square, which suits cross stitch charts. Wood hoops are round and also work as display frames. Many stitchers use both.
Is a magnifier lamp a good gift for an older stitcher?
Yes. Fine fabric and small stitches are easier to see with both light and magnification, and a lamp on a gooseneck stays out of the way of the hands.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice; consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any supplement. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
