When starting cross stitch as a new hobby, just getting started can be mind-boggling. There's so much to learn which is why most people begin at their local craft store. However, it's amazing the amount of free counted cross stitch patterns and graphs that can be found online.

The biggest advantage to searching online before going to your local craft store is the variety that you'll find available. This will save you time of wandering around the store, and it will save you money by not filling up your cart with projects you're ultimately not interested in completing.

Instead of wasting time in long lines, dealing with traffic or finding a parking space you can find something for free online. If you are looking to design something unique, searching the Internet will provide more options than what is available in stores.

You can find free projects in just about any theme you can imagine. Take the time to research your topic, using specific keywords, and you'll find just what you're looking for.

Many websites exist just to offer free counted cross stitch patterns and graphs. Other sites offer the free tools, but also sell their own services or original cross stitch designs. There are also social network sites for cross stitching enthusiasts to find friends, collect information and obtain free patterns and graphs.

There are enough free patterns out there to keep you from ever having to pay for them again. Keep your money and gain thousands upon thousands of cross stitch design options.

It doesn't matter if you're a "newbie" when it comes to cross stitching, or you've been stitching for years, anyone can benefit from the free counted cross stitch patterns and graphs that you can find by spending a little bit of time online.

About the Author, Julia Wigham:

Julia Wigham is a professional author and co-owner of Patterns Patch cross stitch forums. An online cross stitch community whose subscribers get free: patterns, articles and tutorials. Visit our colorful - cross stitch blogs right now. Think and grow rich.