A Cross Stitch Rose Pattern For That Special Person

By: John Wigham

Considered a favorite flower by many, roses have long enchanted people. Roses are available in a multitude of colors, shapes, and sizes. They provide drama and beauty to any garden. If you're looking for a wonderful heirloom-quality project, you can't really go wrong with a cross stitch rose pattern.

It has even been said that the rose provides a metaphor for life itself. Traditionally, they have thorny stems that rise to fragrant blossoms, indicating that if you struggle with problems you will eventually discover peace, harmony and beauty.

You'll be able to find the perfect cross stitch rose pattern with a little exploration. The patterns available include everything from standard rose bouquets to modern rose patterns by artists such as Rennie Mackintosh. You'll even find Art Deco rose designs. The choices may seen overwhelming at first, but consider the likes and dislikes of the recipient. Also, don't overlook the symbolic meaning of the various types of roses.

For instance, consider Venus and Aphrodite. These Greek goddesses of love were symbolized by roses. Another influence roses had on society is in the derivation of the term 'sub rosa.' In Italy when a secret meeting took place, they placed a rose on the door. The rose symbolized that the meeting was 'under the rose,' which meant they were keeping secrets.

Many centuries ago, Christians considered the five petals of the rose to symbolise the five wounds of Christ, and the red rose was used to symbolise the blood of Christian martyrs.

Many cultures feel the rose is symbolic. For both England and the United States, the rose is the national flower. For many people, social democracy and socialism are symbolized by red roses. Roses can be found on many coats of arm. Moreover, the English War of the Roses was fought by two groups, the House of Lancaster and the House of York, that were represented by roses. The House of Lancaster was represented by a red rose while the House of York was represented by a white rose.

According to the language of flowers, the color and shape of roses have great symbolic importance. These can communicate a message to the recipient of the rose.

* A red rose is a symbol of love. A red rosebud means purity and beauty. A red rose without thorns indicates love at first sight.

* Yellow roses depict a relationship based on friendship and love that's platonic. Some people feel yellow roses stand for starting over or beginning anew. In the case of a yellow rose that has petal tips highlighted with red, the flower symbolizes falling in love. Not all countries regard a yellow rose the same way. In Germany, and countries that speak German, a yellow rose depicts jealousy and infidelity.

* A pink rose symbolises grace and appreciation and a dark pink colour conveys gratitude. Light pink roses mean admiration and sympathy.

* An orange or peach coloured rose convey desire, passion, sensuality and fascination.

* A white rose symbolises purity and innocence, especially in white rosebud form. Typically, a bride will choose white roses; this may be interpreted as a new start in life. A white rose can also indicate reverence, humility and friendship.

The fun thing about utilizing a cross stitch rose pattern to create an heirloom for a special person is you can change the color of any of the roses. Simply alter the pattern to suit your needs.

Before you start, keep these hints in mind:

* Simply changing the color of the thread isn't enough. You should look for the same brand as the rest of the threads you'll be using. Sometimes different brands of thread look different, so always use the same brand.

* When you change the color of the rose, don't forget to add shading. Shading gives the flowers a three-dimensional appearance. Don't simply buy one color to stitch the rose.

* If you are unsure about which colors to use, take your kit to your local needlecrafts shop. There, you can place the threads together to check that they look good. Remember the other colors in your cross stitch rose pattern, for example, the stems, or maybe other flowers, and the fabric itself when you are choosing a new color. You will not wish for the colors to clash! Your friendly retailer may even enjoy helping you if he or she is not too busy.

If you consider the information above, you will be assured of choosing a great project -- and much appreciated gift for that special someone.

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Get your free quality-report from Patterns Patch cross stitch community. There are more than 150 cross stitch patterns available for John Wigham's club members with some suitable for a cross stitch rose pattern.

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