XXX Stitch

We’ve all heard of CrossFit, the intense workout that’s currently sweeping the nation. But have you heard of XXX Stitch (pronounced “cross-stitch”)? It’s an event designed to promote cross-stitching—but not like your grandma does it. The way the Urban Cross Stitch organizer folks think of it, it’s like graffiti but with a needle and thread instead of a spray can, combining the outlaw aspects of street art with the armchair-y goodness of knitting. Northern Irish artist Phil Davison is the Banksy of the cross-stitching world and will be showing some of his latest works (like the skull above) at the opening, as well as selling signed copies of his latest book, Twisted Stitches. The event also hopes to promote the art of cross-stitching as a modern, graphic medium, taking it as far away as possible from the twee Etsy images that are associated with it. So while you might not think of it as street art, occasions like these might change your whole perspective. Maybe you’ll even take up cross-stitching for yourself.