The cross stitch industry is going through a tough time right now -- shops are feeling the pinch as a result of several years of economic hardship following 9/11 and a huge amount of layoffs and uncertainty. There are a few other factors I've heard tossed around: a lack of PR on the part of the industry, a need for new design ideas, over-stashing by customers, and failing eyesight. A lot of other crafts get more TV and magazine space right now: scrap booking, stamping, quilting, knitting, and home decorating get much more publicity than stitching. Remember five or ten years ago how many cross stitch magazines there were? Where are they now?

There are probably a few other reasons that could be thrown into the equation: eBay, illegal photocopying of charts, discount web sites. And then a store closes, clears out its inventory, and then those customers have more stash than they know what to do with. Also, some shops get into inventory control problems (over-stocking or under-stocking).

The year is clearly divided between VERY busy and NOT VERY busy (or even slow). Whether or not a shop's sales are strong or sluggish, staples like rent, electricity, phone, Internet, wages, advertising and the like remain constant, which can make for some lean times during the year.

What's going to happen? How can we fix it? The industry is trying to figure out the cause of this slump and how to turn it around. A recent survey found that 20% of women say they cross stitch. My personal experience in the shop here is that 20% of women who walk in may talk about needlework, but a lot of those say they have projects started that they need to finish before they buy anything new.

You can support the industry by not sharing or photocopying designs, by making regular purchases (even if they're small), and by stitching. If your local shop carries gift items, cards, does custom framing, or sells anything else, make a point to get those items while you're there. Every little bit helps. If you don't have a local shop, be sure to shop at a reputable on-line shop which doesn't discount everything every day. Teach a friend, a family member, a child how to stitch. Take care of your eyes.

Be aware that a lot of shop owners are making a huge effort to stay open. I've made huge strides this year in keeping expenses down, so I can continue to do what I love. I'm off of a lot of my automatic shipments (I only get in what I know will sell well for me), and I've trimmed other expenses (cheaper phone, cheaper Internet, cheaper parking). It's a juggling act running a business -- appreciate your local shop owner!

I am optimistic. I've heard from at least one person every day so far this year whom I haven't heard from in a year or two. Maybe we're already coming back around?

Stay warm and stay tuned to my web site for the latest designs. I'll post new things as they come in. Can't wait! So excited! Talk to you soon!

© 2007 Theresa Venette. Articles on this site may be reproduced in needlework group newsletters or other handouts with permission of author and proper attribution. Send questions, comments and suggestions to: xspeddler@yahoo.com