After successfully running a Threads and Tales Club at the Central Public Library in Floriana, Bernadette Felice Hare is organising a cross stitch course for beginners.
Here is what enticed Felice Hare, a senior manager responsible for projects at Malta Libraries, to start this new venture.
What inspired you to organise a cross stitch course?
The idea of creating a cross stitch course came naturally over time. I’ve been passionate about cross-stitching for over 25 years, and it’s been a constant source of creativity, relaxation and joy in my life.
Friends would often ask me to teach them, and I realised there’s a real hunger out there − not just for the craft itself, but for the sense of calm and accomplishment it brings.
Over the years, I saw how many people were intimidated by the idea of starting or didn’t know where to begin. That’s when it clicked: why not turn all these years of experience into a course that makes cross-stitching approachable, enjoyable and empowering for others?
Creating a course was a way for me to share not just techniques, but the whole experience of what stitching can offer.
What do you love most about cross stitch?
What I love most about cross stitch is how meditative and grounding it is. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching a design slowly come to life, one tiny stitch at a time. It’s like building a picture out of quiet moments. I love that it gives me space to slow down, focus and just be present.
I also love the creativity − choosing colours, adjusting patterns or even designing my own. And then there’s the joy of finishing a piece and knowing that it’s something made entirely by hand, with care and intention.
Whether it’s a gift, a decoration or just for myself, every piece feels personal and meaningful.
What does it involve?
Cross stitch is a form of embroidery where you use small ‘x’-shaped stitches to fill in a design on fabric − usually on a grid-like material called Aida.
Most beginners start by following pre-made patterns, which is a great way to learn the basics and build confidence. The pattern acts like a map or blueprint; it tells you where to place each stitch and what colour thread to use.
As they get more comfortable, many start customising colours or even combining elements from different patterns.
Eventually, yes − participants can learn to create their own patterns from scratch but that comes after a lot of experience and not everyone would be interested in the creation of a pattern from scratch.
In my courses, I guide students through this process step-by-step − from reading and following patterns too. It’s all about helping them grow.
How is it different to other needlework crafts?
Cross stitch is unique among needlework crafts because it’s based on a very simple, structured stitch on a grid.
Unlike embroidery, which often uses freehand stitches of different shapes and lengths, cross stitch is more geometric and pattern driven. You work on even-weave fabric like Aida, which makes it easy to count and place stitches accurately.
Other needlework styles might use a wide variety of stitches and techniques, often working more by eye or using printed fabric as a guide. Cross stitch, on the other hand, is very accessible to beginners because of its consistent structure.
You already run another needlework course, the Threads and Tales Club. What’s the feedback you received from participants?
It is such a wonderful experience, and the feedback from participants is really encouraging. Many told me they appreciated not just learning new stitching techniques but also the sense of community it creates. They love sharing stories behind their projects and connecting over a shared love of needlework.
Participants say the club helps them feel more confident and inspired to try new patterns, and they enjoy the relaxing pace and friendly atmosphere.
Who can join Stitch Happens?
The course is open to any age. I’ve designed it to be beginner-friendly, so no prior experience is needed.
If a younger person is especially interested and focused, I’m always happy to chat with a parent or guardian to see if it’s a good fit. The most important thing is that the participant is patient, enjoys creative work, and can follow step-by-step instructions.
The course starts on June 17 and will take place once weekly at the Central Public Library, Floriana. To reserve your spot, call or send Bernadette a message on +356 7953 9472 or via e-mail at stitch.happens.malta@gmail.com.