Cross stitch is a traditional hobby - but your designs don't have to be! Approximately 175 patterns reflect a modern sensibility, with motifs ranging from trendy to vintage and kitschy. All are designed to fit into a 6-inch or smaller embroidery hoop, so they're quick projects that can be finished in an evening or weekend. Themes include holidays, cute critters, flowers, abstracts, birth announcements, and much more. AUTHOR: Cari Buziak mixes old techniques (handmade gesso, egg tempera, gold leaf) and new (several Mac computers) to re-create ancient manuscripts in painted and digital form for a wide variety of merchandising and fine art needs. Her illustrations have been published by Interweave Press, Penguin/Pearson Books, Llewellyn Publications, and Chronicle Books. She has also designed Irish dance dresses, jewellery, and other commissioned works.