On our series covering the best cross stitch magazines we review the newest, and most contemporary mag, XStitch Magazine.
To do this review we’ve compiled a series of reviews from industry leaders, as well as feefo reviews.
Traditionally cross stitch gets the rep of being about teddies, flowers and all things cottage, however, following the end of a few eminent cross stitch mags, Mr X Stitch, a previous pattern designer for the CrossStitcher magazine decided to take on a new challenge and make a cross stitch magazine for all the young contemporary stitchers. As a direct result, the mag has a very different edge to its competitors, offering stylish pages, well-written content, and a great heap of important cross stitchers (the first magazine had 12 designers from all over the world, including Jane Greenoff and Emily Peacock).
How has no one ever made a magazine like this before?! THIS is what I want.
Inside you’ll find only 20 patterns, but each will be crafted to a specific and topical theme each edition. Up to 50 designers submit patterns and only the best are chosen. These are then converted into 4 pattern types which are all downloadable with the mag. In addition to the usual content such as topical articles and reviews, there is also an online playlist chosen by the designers to listen to as you read.
The biggest thing you’ll notice, however, is there aren’t any adverts. The magazine has been put together for the readers, and it’s not full of filler.
As the only contemporary magazine on the market, it will either appeal or not, however, I think that’s its charm.
$6 per quarter; digital version only, downloadable patterns in 3 formats and online playlist
| ✓ Loads of patterns ✓ Lots of mainstream patterns ✓ Large readership |
╳ Not many modern patterns ╳ Digital only ╳ Not many freebies |
Score: 9/10
142 reviews on feefo
If you liked this review, but you’re looking for something a bit more traditional you might like our review of the CrossStitcher, or The World Of Cross Stitching review.