I will happily support the return of every so-called granny hobby, and cross stitch might be one of my favorites yet. It’s creative, inexpensive to get into, and exactly the kind of slow activity I want when I’m trying to spend less time staring at my phone. I’ve been seeing cross stitch everywhere lately, and I completely understand why it’s making a comeback.
But what really made me want to try it is seeing all the creative ways people are using cross stitch beyond the traditional embroidery hoop. People are stitching directly onto notebooks, clothes, hats, and paper, and even turning tiny designs into keychains and accessories.
So if you’ve been looking for a new craft to try, I rounded up 9 cross stitch ideas that go beyond the embroidery hoop and make this classic hobby feel fresh again. Some are quick little projects you could finish in an afternoon, while others are perfect for settling into when you want a slower, screen-free activity.
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1. Cross Stitched Photo Frame
@soph.diy cross stitching on photos is my newest hobby 
frame from @target embroidery thread and canvas from @Michaels Stores letters are from @pinterest #diy #crossstitch #anniversarygiftideas #artsandcrafts #embroidery ♬ the perfect pair - beabadoobee
I love how this turns a simple photo into something that feels completely one of a kind. Stitch a favorite phrase, date, initials, or a few words around the photo to create a keepsake that would also make such a thoughtful handmade gift.
2. Cross Stitched Notebook
@ameliaasays cross stitching a hardcover journal is not for the faint of heart, my fingers hurt but obsessed with how she turned out
time to customise everything I own #aesthetic #journal #crossstitch #embroidery #craft #journaling #inspo ♬ original sound -
This is such a cute way to personalize an otherwise simple notebook or journal. Stitch your initials, a monogram, or a tiny design directly onto the cover, and play with contrasting thread colors to make the pattern stand out.
3. Cross Stitched Paper
@arabelllarice First time cross stitching #crossstitching#embroidery#crafts#art#fiberart ♬ Ray Mysterio (Instrumental) - The Alchemist
Cross stitch doesn’t have to be limited to fabric! Heavyweight paper or cardstock works beautifully for small designs like this swan. I love the idea of turning these into handmade cards, mini art prints, or even personalized gift tags.
4. Cross Stitched on Clothing
@stichin.with.samantha Cross-stitch anyone can do!
♬ original sound - Tik TokerI have a printed pack or a digital download you can print on stabilizer yourself! Both come with a guide for the corresponding DMC colors and thread counts!
This is so fun! Let me know if you plan to try this method of cross-stitch!
Cross stitching directly onto clothing is such a fun way to make a basic piece feel completely custom. Try adding small motifs to a sweatshirt, T-shirt, jeans, or even a tote bag. I especially love the look of several tiny designs grouped together like patches.
5. Cross Stitched Button Pins
@asobibee make a cross stitch button with me ◝(ᵔᗜᵔ)◜ recently picked up cross stitch and when @caydo shop sent over their button maker i just knew i needed to combine the two and thankfully it worked!! if you want to get your hands on one too, it’s ’d in the bye-oh ! 🙂 these are so fun to make and so cute!! making buttons is so addicting!!! #hobbymaxxing #buttons #buttonmaker #crossstitcher #diy ♬ Refreshing cafe & bossa nova with flute(1249042) - Sumochi
Okay, this might be one of my favorites. Turn tiny cross stitch designs into fabric covered button pins that you can add to tote bags, jackets, backpacks, or even a camera strap. It’s also the perfect project for using smaller patterns that don’t need a full hoop.
6. Cross Stitched Bookmarks
@thebakerandtheboys This might be my favorite project This pattern is officially available on my Etsy shop! Let me know what you think
Cross stitch bookmarks are perfect for trying out smaller patterns, and they make the cutest gifts for readers. You can keep the design simple with flowers or fruit, personalize one with initials, or match the colors and pattern to someone’s favorite book.
7. Cross Stitched Keychains
@virkat.av.sofie Diy crosstitch frog keychain #diy #crosstitch #keychain #embroidery #frog ♬ Three Celtic Elves - Kley Kley
Tiny cross stitch patterns are basically made for keychains. Pick a cute motif like a frog, flower, fruit, or favorite character, then turn the finished piece into a charm for your keys, purse, or backpack.
8. Cross Stitched Hats
@duyguturgok It’s crazy how a tiny cross stitch can change everything. #crafttok #crossstitch #upcycledclothing ♬ Color Sky - Monster Rally
A tiny cross stitch design can completely transform a plain baseball cap. Flowers, fruit, initials, or other small motifs work especially well here, and I love how the stitching gives a basic hat that slightly vintage, handmade feel.
9. Cross Stitched Canvas
@rebekahonline If you think cross stitch on journals is cool, check this out. #crafting #crafty #girlhood #crafttok #whimsy ♬ Sit Around The Fire - Jon Hopkins & Ram Dass & East Forest
Instead of displaying your finished cross stitch in a traditional embroidery hoop, try stitching directly onto an art canvas. It turns the pattern into actual wall art and gives you so much freedom to go bigger with your design.
Once you start looking beyond traditional cross stitch patterns, there are so many things you can personalize with a needle and thread. You could also try stitching tote bags, greeting cards, denim pockets, fabric pouches, ornaments, or even thrifted pieces that could use a little update.