I love the way the countdown was done this year on the larger cards. I’m probably going to be the one off but I think searching for the new stitches is part of the fun and your videos fill in any needed information so I wouldn’t change a thing. Like you reading has always been my first love. I keep track of my books in my Book of Days right along side of my stitching. I’ve read or listened to 37 books this year, favorite one was maybe The Gown by Jennifer Robson but it’s incredibly difficult to choose!! Thanks to you and Jacob and Kerri for all the hard work involved in this SAL ❤
Just have to share that I have read Wheel of Time books twice! Loved them ! Am so enjoying stitching countdown! Have had to do some frogging but am now on track. Thanks for starting my day, so much fun!
Love your daily videos - they are so helpful. Great idea on the symbols. I usually have to take a magnifying glass to find the correct symbol for the day. D
It's a great idea to have the stitch of the day in a black and the rest in grey although I, like you, simply look for what has not yet been stitched. Oh YES to audiobooks. I love to read but don't always want to sacrifice my stitching, knitting etc. to a physical book. So audio books really are the way to go. My absolute favorite series are the books by Lincold Child and Lee Preston about Aloysius Pendergast. My mom and I read all the physical copies that were available then and afterwards we listened to all of the audiobooks. Fascinating.
Beautiful finishes in your home! I love Audible. I listen to something on it most every day. Loving the Holiday Countdown. I’m a day behind, but I have time today to stitch and get caught up. It’s a good day! 😊
I also loved to read and I have read all the Wheel of Time books and loved them. I don't listen to audios much as I love to look at the written word. I appreciate that it is hard to read with your busy schedule and I am thinking that I need to look at audios when I am at work. Also good talk about the chart and how to do it differently next year. I am okay with missing some of the stitching as I am happy to think I will have a finish at the end of this countdown.
I appreciate the size of the charts and do not need coloring. I agree with previous posts that your videos are the added check and balance for the day’s stitching. Thank you!
Great book discussion, Caroline. I am also a very eclectic reader, and also love audiobooks. I thought I was the only one who can’t tell you what a books about two days after I finish it (there are exceptions)! Merry Christmas!
Absolutely love the idea of the current days stitching symbol being darker than the previous days. I loved last year’s SAL and I am loving this year’s even more. I will definitely be in for next year. I love audiobooks as well. In case you didn’t now, the Red Rising series is now 6 books and a seventh scheduled for 2025. Have a great day!
Nothing is more my happy place than listening to a book and stitching. I struggle between my love of stitching and reading now I do not. I love the 8x11 cards. I think with watching you every morning I have not missed any bits. I have so enjoyed this event. I will definitely be buying 2024.
Your story of being an avid reader is very much like my own. When I was younger, I would literally hide with a book to get more reading time. I grew up on a small farm so there were always chores to do. To the frustration of my parents, I would sneak off any time I could to read. As I got older, with responsibilities, a home, 4 children, a career, it became difficult to carve out enough time for reading. Then 5 or 6 years ago I started cross stitching and discovered Audible. I still don't have enough time for both of my hobbies, but I am thrilled that I can accomplish both at the same time when I do find some time.
I am actually doing exactly what you are doing 😁 I am looking for the new elements in a new chart, not a new key sign.. So far I never missed anything, and I am stitching ahead of you because of the time difference. So as for me - no changes needed and I Loooove the cards! Although if some changes needed for people who have issues seeing symbols, your suggestion of making the new symbols darker is all you need. Audiobooks are a recent addition to my reading style: I use it when I stitch :)
Thanks for your insight about audio books, that is what I do too. I was thinking about the symbols problem but at the moment has not come up with a better way to
I like the idea of black for the new days stitching. I'm sure you've thought of this, but I use Pattern Keeper and would love to get my clues via PDF. Of course I know everyone doesn't feel that way... Thanks for all the work you, Jakob and your team do to make this so much fun.
I was listening to you talk about audiobooks counting as reading in your opinion. I couldn’t agree more. I always think of my audiobook participation as reading with my ears. And my husband would definitely agree with your opinion on Scott Brick as a must listen narrator. I like his voice, too. I would also throw Hilary Huber in as another voice to listen to. Like you and your husband, my husband and I have audible since they began. My mom gave me a gift subscription when they first came out as a birthday present and I’ve had a subscription ever since. They are fantastic and I can listen whenever it suits me. Thanks for your thoughts today.
If your thinking about the cost of printing , just go to printing on regular paper and just bold the new stitching for that day. I personally don't think I need to have card stock. I also look forward each day to watch your video. I am glad you also showed us the new stitching. I am really enjoying this chart!!! 😊
I love the idea of the current days stitching being a black square. That would make it easier, but I still love the way this year is laid out. Oh I did not see that being a bird! Oh that Jacob is sneaky. Lol
Books! Books! Books galore!!! I have always wanted a special room in my house that I call the library. I have seven (yes seven) full size bookcases (floor to ceiling) five foot wide bookcases jam full of books. I read anything and everything. Audible is now my best friend and has been for years. I use my credit every month and buy six or more credits a month. I just listened to the series about six sisters by Lucinda Riley. The charts have been great to work with. Enjoy your advent calendar 📅 ❤
I think these videos are the perfect substitute for the coloured printing suggestion! I have caught many things that I originally missed because of these videos - so thank you!
I also tend to see what is different on the two charts rather than look at the symbols. I have really appreciated the larger charts and that they show all the stitching to date. Makes my counting much easier. I have also appreciated the 7am videos. Thank you for all that you are doing.
I use my magnifiers to see the symbols correctly and I had seen the one in yesterday's stitching in the middle of the little squares in the lower inner corners.
I love audiobooks too! I’ve been reading the Armand Gamache series by Louise Penny. I love this series. I pretty much read anything except horror stuff. I love the larger charts this year. ❤
Great video again Books are my jam, and I, too, am all over the genre map. Even though I could not purchase this year, I love the new charting style. Brilliant! Thinking through many of the foibles of PDF charts. Might that be an option for the Advent box? Possibly with a full page chart at the last day? Your loss from unused products, mailing cost, etc. might also make it more affordable. How I love all that is done for this box! You all put do much thought into it! ❤❤❤❤❤
Love the idea of grey-scale for the old stitches & black boxes for the new! I also do what you do - ignore the symbols and look for the new stuff that wasn't on the previous day's card. I love the 8.5x11 size, so please keep that! But it would be really nice to have some way of "highlighting" the new day's stitching (personally I feel that can be done without adding colour, bc you're right, why have the extra expense!) Thanks for the daily company! :)
I love the chart being on one page this year, and I use my magnifiers to look at the chart to clearly differentiate between the past symbols when I am confirming I caught all of the stitches in a section. Keeping up with the pattern makes it easy to see where the new stitches are and I prefer to not have color on the chart. Perhaps the new day's stitches are printed with the symbol on a gray colored background? But if it gets confusing for me I do pull out my set of colored pencils and can highlight some stitches if need be.
I like the idea of the darker/greyscale - but only thing would be differentiating if there are 2 different colours on the same day like we had last time. Though i do love the charts this time. As for books - I used to hide my book in between my study books and pretend to be studying when I was in school. We lived in a joint family and if anyone was passing by and peeked in, they would assume I was studying 😂. Though I did get caught often enough. Didnt make me stop though. Now I am hooked on to Audiobooks. I do love reading from a physical book, but ebooks have made life so much easier and lighter. Lol. And listening to audiobooks while I stitch or do work around the house makes it more fun. I dont have to choose between stitching and reading.
I also like the idea of grey scale for the old stitches and black symbols for the new stitches. The PDF floss guide that you provided on your website has been a great help. I compare the previous day to the new day and then count the new stitches on the chart. If the numbers don't match, I know I have to look further. I'm so excited to see the Shop update ❤❤
I like the format of each day's cards this year. I just finished a novel call The Masterpiece by Fiona Davis. The setting of the story is Grand Central Station in New York City and an art school that was in the building in the early 1900s.
I’m really loving the SAL ! For me, the chart symbols are too small and hard to read. I absolutely love your videos and look forward to seeing your stitching every day. I couldn’t do this SAL without that. My thought about this is …. Could it be possible to divide the chart into 4 quadrants ? With instructions as to start in the upper left corner (or where ever you want). It definitely may mean repeating some of the colors throughout the chart progress. I personally would be ok with that because the symbols would be larger and for me clearer. I really appreciate the hard work that goes into this process . Thank you so much ! 💜
Sometimes I swear we must be related, I am blind as a bat, an eclectic reader and love my crafts. I have a book recommendation The Fourth Wing is a series with 2 books so far. They are even doing a dramatized reading on audible. I am eagerly awaiting the Valentine box as well!
Caroline, you are such an influencer! i went to my library and there is quite the waitlist for Red Rising, all formats! i'm calling it the "Caroline Effect" 😀 I am quite pleased with the format of the chart this year - part of the fun is comparing the charts and seeing what to stitch. I'm probably the odd person who is scanning the chart into a PDF and importing it into markup, tho, which does make it easier. it's because my near vision s*cks and it's easier to see the symbols. after cataract surgery, bringing the chart closer to my face is actually worse! making the day's symbol a black square messes up the symbol key; i think we'd have to wait for the symbol reveal the next day to complete the key. and then you'd have the expense of a 26th page with the entire chart revealed. oh the challenges. one other idea which probably wouldn't be too popular but i know several entities who issue "boxes" have a limit, if you want to consider that. i know that your very generous nature would get all twitchy about that, and i mean that in the nicest way 😊 I appreciate you and the entire team at evertote, and jacob and kerri! 💕💕(i live in bellingham wa and i consider you my LNS! there is only 1 store in all of washington, and it's in the seattle area.)
Not having participated last year, I am pleased that you went to full sized cards. I will try the process you use instead of looking at the symbols. I understand your process and will be participated again in 2024. Although I saw birds today, not glasses! 😳
I love holding an actual book in my hands. Have only listened to a few audiobooks and have not been hooked yet. But I will recommend the book “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt. I might try audio for this one to hear the voice of the main character. Soooooooooooo good!!
I too look for what's different each day. And sometimes I've chosen to postpone stitching part of the pattern that same day, as you suggested regarding the 20 23 and the pink shapes. I do like the size of the cards this year but I don't think I would like seeing the chart in color. I'm sure that's a great relief to you! I'm going back and forth on the grayscale/black scheme, though. Would the older portions of the chart show as undifferentiated gray squares? I think I would like the solid black squares for "new" stitches, but would also want at least one card (the last one?) showing the actual symbols. So i guess what I'm suggesting is a hybrid plan for next year. Or maybe not. I just noticed something else: adjacent solid black squares would melt together visually and would be hard to count because of that. I love audiobooks! I tend to read mostly mysteries. One of my favorite writers is Louise Penny. I have read all the Three Pines books multiple times. Ralph Cosham narrated the first 9 or 10, and after his passing Robert Bathurst took over. They're both marvelous. My favorite female narrator is Davina Porter, who reads the Outlander series.
I also tend to look for the differences but only because there is no point trying to read the symbols at that size. I even took a picture and zoomed in and many are just way too similar to others to tell what is what. I like your idea of black vs gray going forward. I also, personally, wouldn't mind a smaller chart overall. I didn't do last year's but I bought the pdf after the fact and this year's is a couple thousand stitches less than last years which is great! But I'm still struggling to keep up. No way i could have last year. So I would still advocate for going even smaller in regards to number of stitches. I also like that this year we don't reuse any colors it seems.
I have had a bit of issue with the print size of the symbols also. I also look at the previous days to see the difference. I was wondering if there are less complicated symbols since for instance the Cup(day10) and day 15 and 12 get a bit muddled to my older eyes. But I love the chart, and am not complaining, just answering your prompt! Loving the chart, the colors. Everything looks great
I like the idea of black and grey scale. My eyesight isn’t great either and I photograph the daily chart each day which lessens the clarity and then view the chart in GoodNotes and it’s sometimes hard to distinguish the symbols. So grey scale would be excellent. Although…like everything I’m sure there are some unintended consequences. Honestly, though, it’s been pretty easy to follow the charts so even with no changes I plan to join in next year❤️
I'm a recent convert to PDF files and stitching using my iphone so I can zoom. Perhaps next year automated emails can be a daily option. I personally wouldn't be keeping all of the large print outs
I’m with you, I just look for those areas that appear new! Your videos have been great to catch the odd one I may have missed. The idea of a gray scale with black for the new is a great one. Just put in today’s last stitch and thank you for all the work in putting these together for us 😊
I like the 8 1/2 x 11 cards you used this year. My suggestion is to keep the cards and just darken the symbol/s for that day. Leave the rest as a light gray. 😊
I like the idea of grayed out and dark. However, I would still like the symbols if possible. For me a daily .pdf would be even better, as I cross stitch using GoodNotes and each day. As a working copy, I take a picture of the chart and upload the daily stitching into the program so that I can mark off my stitches as I do them. At the end of the Countdown SAL, like last year I did last year, I will delete the working copy from GoodNotes. Thanks for asking. smile😊😊
Me again haha - totally with you on audiobooks!! My comfort audiobook listens are Agatha Christie! Hugh Fraser narrates a lot of them (he is the perfect Poirot!) and curling up on the couch listening while stitching or knitting is heaven!!
I am a pretty new stitcher and I didn't struggle with last year or this year. I think the larger sheets is an improvement on last year. There are pros and cons to all the options and I think you have to do what makes sense to the most people. I worry the black squares will be just as, or more confusing to people. Fun doesn't always have to equal easy- I've loved the tiny challenges, like the counting as a way to stretch and grow. I also look for differences, not symbols before then confirming what I'm stitching. With a mystery there is going to be an element of figuring things out that doesn't happen when you have the whole chart, and that's OK for me. I appreciate the conversation and your willingness to improve. I have no complaints so far this year 😊
I, too, am a big reader. However, it took me a LONG LONG time to get comfortable with the audiobooks. I solved it this way: I listened to an audiobook of a book I had read already. And, viola == I got it. I really am able to listen to ANY audiobook, now - even the AI read stuff. (this may help some people out there). Caroline, I love love love your dedication to stitching & it shows with the Christmas countdown. Thank you and thanks to your wonderful team and of course, Jacob. Blessings to all. Jeanette Sizzle
I also (methodically) compare the current chart with the days before to find the new stitches and it has worked really well. I missed a few stitches but it wasn’t that bad….we still have the flosses. That’s part of the enjoyment of cracking the mystery. It’s not much different than missing stitches on any chart….😂 You, Jacob, etc. actually did a great job!❤
Oh no, our panda turned into a raccoon. :) Catching up from 6 days behind to 4. Tomorrow will probably be another day of holiday preparation and no stitching but at least it is friday. I hope anyone reading this are on schedule with their plans and manage to avoid all the colds going around.
I worry about the grey out idea on if we miss stitching we’d have to flip back through the cards to tell the color. I see the trouble seeing symbols but maybe a daily pdf option for those who need a bigger view would save money and let people participate easier up to the end of the countdown? I know that would be more work for you to have an automated system but I’d love to have a pdf in the end and it may make packaging and shipping cheaper for those who prefer it.
You would also have to have a final version with symbols printed at the end too if you went with the grey/black version so we would have the completed pattern at the end. That would then add another chart to print.
Hi Caroline! I have been following the SAL every morning while I enjoy my first coffee. I am now regretting not joining in the fun this year. To be honest, the cost (not blaming you as there is great value there) is prohibitive ESPECIALLY when you have no idea if it will coordinate with your decor. Having watched the colour reveals to-date, 2023 would have worked very nicely in my home. Might there be a chance of showing the colours beforehand when the kit goes on sale? Just snippets of the palette perhaps not the colour name nor when it will be used. Keeping my fingers crossed! Merry Christmas!🎄
Great ideas! The daily PDF is an option that we have discussed and rejected the past two years for a few reasons. Firstly - setting up the auto system is fraught with customer service issues. email address errors being input incorrectly to begin with. (It happens all the time, just takes one keystroke) Then - as we find with our few pdf sales that we do now (and this isn't a huge issue because it might be one or two cutomer issues per week) but sometimes PDF's don't arrive, or they go into spam - and we have to take the time to correct each individual issue - daily x 25 days x upwards of 800 people who want their stitching NOW, when we're maybe at home having dinner with our family. I get messages on all social media platforms at all hours of the day when there is something missing and it's not a nice feeling to know that I've spoiled someones' daily treat. This would be on top of sometimes missing floss etc. So hard copies are really the best way from a logistics point of view for us. As far as missing stitches and having to go back for colour - I think that a combo of video and still having a symbol system but using grey scale is enough for the vast majority. I don't mind a few emails from stitchers if they're really struggling and need help, but that would not an overwhelming amount, I don't think. There is also a PLETHORA of posts throughout the month on IG - quick search would show others finish of colours. Thanks for the great ideas! We will continue to consider PDF's each year as we design the box - nothing is ever a hard no.
@@OfftheGridNeedlearts oh I totally assume you’ve gone through the pros and cons of each option. I have to just add I really love this year’s version. Sure the symbols are sometimes close but with the videos I think they are great. I don’t know if you’ll please more with changes but I’ll buy next year’s box either way. ;)
Hi, l m stitching like you, doing what was not there the previous day. Just to jump on the grey scale, great idea but I would prefer dots symbol instead of square, I have a chart with black squares and its really hard to count.
I love the idea of graying the already stitched areas, but please don't take away the symbols. Filled squares all black and / or gray would be hard on the eyes. One cost saver could be the quality of paper on the cards, maybe just regular paper for the dailies and no card stock until the end. What I felt like I missed was a final mock-up on the last day to show the finished piece "stitched." All of that said, one thing would have made this year perfect, and that's if the charts had been enlarged to fit the page. There are several symbols that look the same when they are so tiny. For example, the coffee mug symbol looked like a misshapen circle and was right next to an actual circle. There are 2 symbols next to each other that look both like bold x's when printed so small. One thing that has helped me is to highlight the previous stitching before starting a new day. Spend some time with it and flip through the previous cards and highlight real quick, and then you know what you have left to stitch for that day. Any way you turn it though I've loved it. Something that would have taken me forever to comp,ete broken down into 25 days was wonderful.
Another thought... Is a daily pdf email remotely an option? The last couple days I've been really burned out on stitching from paper as it's just not something I do and don't enjoy the process of. It could be a cost saving measure if people pre order it that way plus a much smaller package to ship.
Morning Caroline!!! I absolutely love your idea of greyed out vs. black (honestly I said that out loud before you said it). I love that Shepherd's Bush piece - I really want to try a chart that has specialty stitches do you have any suggestions? Also I cannot find what email you wanted us to use if we wanted to send comments about our order-I know you said it in one of the videos but can't find it.
I have been doing what you have been doing with the countdown and just looking at what is new on one card versus the next. Your daily videos are sufficient enough to help those of us who made need extra help. While yes the symbols are small you can see the difference between them if you take an extra second. I appreciate having it all on one page and it building each day. (So if I am a few days behind on stitching I just look at the most recent day and work off of that for all the previous days). I honestly think doing away with the symbols and just doing squares will cause other issues for people. My only suggestion would be is it necessary to have each day be on card stock? I have participated in another company’s advent in the past and they just used regular paper. This would help to bring down the cost of the box and you could just provide the final pattern in card stock. Regardless Caroline I have been enjoying the floss, the pattern and the process this year as much as last year.
I’d say this piece is definitely not a neutral palette. Really bummed. I did take the plunge as this was described as neutral. It’s a beautiful pattern but unfortunately these floss colors are way too bright and nothing goes together. Very disheartening as this was promised to be a neutral palette. So my suggestion would be to just state facts regarding next years advent. At day 20 and forcing myself to complete. 😢
I am really sorry to hear that you are not enjoying. I have to say that I never remember describing this as neutral colours which I would consider beiges/browns/tans/creams/greys. I’m fairly certain we used the terms “muted dirty jewel tones” back in February and the other few times we were asked about the colours. If compared to last years I would say it’s a more toned down palette. My memory of course is never perfect so if I did in fact say the word neutral, that was in error. The flosses themselves were planned to go together so that you would have tones that work together in your stash when finished. The blues, greens, purples etc. Hopefully you will enjoy your leftovers in a different manner. 🙂
As a further suggestion - why would you force yourself to complete something you dislike so much? It’s not a huge pattern, you could select a few of the shades that you do like and substitute them out for the stitched sections that you really don’t like and then maybe you’d like it a bit more. It would only take a little time to restitch it and then you’d have a piece that you liked.
@@OfftheGridNeedlearts I’m finishing so it’s not wasted and hoping a friend can enjoy it. Plus I treated myself to a project and it’s my first advent and wanted to experience it. Is that ok? Im sure your question wasn’t meant to be condescending and I’m hoping something is lost in translation of text. I still have hope for humanity but You asked for suggestions and I was sharing mine like others who did not receive such a question. As far as a February video I’m not aware. I ordered after this was spoken of during the summer. You would find your comment there.
Hi - I'm sorry that I don't know your name to respond properly to you. You're right - tone is impossible to convey. My question to you was absolutely meant as a conversational response to your statement saying that you were forcing yourself to finish. I honestly want everyone to enjoy their finish just as much as the process, and I hope that the effort I put forth in these videos and the amount of time spent focusing on details shows that to be true. I very much apologize that you found my question condescending - it was not intentional at all. Simply trying to come up with a way that you would enjoy your finish. I also, can totally see that the word neutral may have come out of my mouth, (or Kerri's) and as I said above - I very well could have, I wasn't denying it. From the beginning we tried to compare it to last years box which was VERY bright - super modern bright tones, and we knew when comparing then entire pack this year it was way more muted. If you look at our floss club subscriptions - Kerri uses the word "Neutrals" for one of our clubs - they are meant to be more traditional in tone than our Brights/Modern pack so if she or I used this word, it would have been a descriptive word based on opinion and trying very hard to differentiate it from last years floss pack WITHOUT being able to show anything physically, using only words. Your suggestion to me to "just state facts" when talking about opinions on colour is a lot trickier problem to fix when my opinion on muted/ traditional colours might differ from yours, than hey "these symbols on the chart are hard to read, or "how about a PDF option" My sincerest apologies if you feel misled by my previous descriptive words about the colour palette and in the future I will try to be more careful of my word choices. If this is a conversation you wish to continue at all, please feel free to email me directly as responses to youtube comments on older videos can sometimes get lost. caroline@evertote.ca
I enjoyed the conversation about expenses that go into providing such a quality box as this. I haven't participated; as I'm really working to reduce my stash after collecting for more years than I'd like to admit lol. But after hearing your discussion, I was reminded of something I saw in another advent video for a different box. What if you gave people a special code that would provide them access to a pdf version of the chart in your shop or a separate website for a pdf file with a version that has new symbols highlighted in color? I'm sure it would involve more effort and technology than I'm thinking, but thought it might be somehow doable. I completely agree with you - I would listen to Scott Brick read a dictionary if that was what was available. The plus side is that I've found some really enjoyable reads that I wouldn't have chosen otherwise, but picked because he was the narrator. 🪡👠
Good morning. You explain things so well. Thank you for the audible suggestions.
I love the way the countdown was done this year on the larger cards. I’m probably going to be the one off but I think searching for the new stitches is part of the fun and your videos fill in any needed information so I wouldn’t change a thing. Like you reading has always been my first love. I keep track of my books in my Book of Days right along side of my stitching. I’ve read or listened to 37 books this year, favorite one was maybe The Gown by Jennifer Robson but it’s incredibly difficult to choose!! Thanks to you and Jacob and Kerri for all the hard work involved in this SAL ❤
I like your idea of bulk squares for new grey for previous
I think the gray scaling is a great idea. So enjoying this 25 days of Christmas stitching.
Just have to share that I have read Wheel of Time books twice! Loved them ! Am so enjoying stitching countdown! Have had to do some frogging but am now on track. Thanks for starting my day, so much fun!
Love your daily videos - they are so helpful. Great idea on the symbols. I usually have to take a magnifying glass to find the correct symbol for the day. D
It's a great idea to have the stitch of the day in a black and the rest in grey although I, like you, simply look for what has not yet been stitched. Oh YES to audiobooks. I love to read but don't always want to sacrifice my stitching, knitting etc. to a physical book. So audio books really are the way to go. My absolute favorite series are the books by Lincold Child and Lee Preston about Aloysius Pendergast. My mom and I read all the physical copies that were available then and afterwards we listened to all of the audiobooks. Fascinating.
Beautiful finishes in your home! I love Audible. I listen to something on it most every day. Loving the Holiday Countdown. I’m a day behind, but I have time today to stitch and get caught up. It’s a good day! 😊
I also loved to read and I have read all the Wheel of Time books and loved them. I don't listen to audios much as I love to look at the written word. I appreciate that it is hard to read with your busy schedule and I am thinking that I need to look at audios when I am at work. Also good talk about the chart and how to do it differently next year. I am okay with missing some of the stitching as I am happy to think I will have a finish at the end of this countdown.
I like the grayed out option.
I appreciate the size of the charts and do not need coloring. I agree with previous posts that your videos are the added check and balance for the day’s stitching. Thank you!
I also like the card stock not paper charts. Thank you again.
I’m new to Evertote. I’m hoping to do the advent box next year. I’ve really enjoyed watching and seeing the progress.
Great book discussion, Caroline. I am also a very eclectic reader, and also love audiobooks. I thought I was the only one who can’t tell you what a books about two days after I finish it (there are exceptions)! Merry Christmas!
Absolutely love the idea of the current days stitching symbol being darker than the previous days. I loved last year’s SAL and I am loving this year’s even more. I will definitely be in for next year. I love audiobooks as well. In case you didn’t now, the Red Rising series is now 6 books and a seventh scheduled for 2025. Have a great day!
Nothing is more my happy place than listening to a book and stitching. I struggle between my love of stitching and reading now I do not. I love the 8x11 cards. I think with watching you every morning I have not missed any bits. I have so enjoyed this event. I will definitely be buying 2024.
Your story of being an avid reader is very much like my own. When I was younger, I would literally hide with a book to get more reading time. I grew up on a small farm so there were always chores to do. To the frustration of my parents, I would sneak off any time I could to read.
As I got older, with responsibilities, a home, 4 children, a career, it became difficult to carve out enough time for reading. Then 5 or 6 years ago I started cross stitching and discovered Audible. I still don't have enough time for both of my hobbies, but I am thrilled that I can accomplish both at the same time when I do find some time.
🎅🏽🎄🎁 I have come back to reading, listening as audio books are the next best thing to cross stitching. I'll be checking out your suggestions.
I am actually doing exactly what you are doing 😁 I am
looking for the new elements in a new chart, not a new key sign.. So far I never missed anything, and I am stitching ahead of you because of the time difference.
So as for me - no changes needed and I Loooove the cards! Although if some changes needed for people who have issues seeing symbols, your suggestion of making the new symbols darker is all you need.
Audiobooks are a recent addition to my reading style: I use it when I stitch :)
Thanks for your insight about audio books, that is what I do too. I was thinking about the symbols problem but at the moment has not come up with a better way to
I like the idea of black for the new days stitching. I'm sure you've thought of this, but I use Pattern Keeper and would love to get my clues via PDF. Of course I know everyone doesn't feel that way... Thanks for all the work you, Jakob and your team do to make this so much fun.
I was listening to you talk about audiobooks counting as reading in your opinion. I couldn’t agree more. I always think of my audiobook participation as reading with my ears. And my husband would definitely agree with your opinion on Scott Brick as a must listen narrator. I like his voice, too. I would also throw Hilary Huber in as another voice to listen to. Like you and your husband, my husband and I have audible since they began. My mom gave me a gift subscription when they first came out as a birthday present and I’ve had a subscription ever since. They are fantastic and I can listen whenever it suits me. Thanks for your thoughts today.
So spoilt with these daily videos. We will have withdrawals when December ends xx
If your thinking about the cost of printing , just go to printing on regular paper and just bold the new stitching for that day. I personally don't think I need to have card stock. I also look forward each day to watch your video. I am glad you also showed us the new stitching. I am really enjoying this chart!!! 😊
I need to read more ..... never thought about audio so I can stitch at the same time (have I been living under a rock?) ;)
I love the idea of the current days stitching being a black square. That would make it easier, but I still love the way this year is laid out. Oh I did not see that being a bird! Oh that Jacob is sneaky. Lol
Books! Books! Books galore!!! I have always wanted a special room in my house that I call the library. I have seven (yes seven) full size bookcases (floor to ceiling) five foot wide bookcases jam full of books. I read anything and everything. Audible is now my best friend and has been for years. I use my credit every month and buy six or more credits a month. I just listened to the series about six sisters by Lucinda Riley. The charts have been great to work with. Enjoy your advent calendar 📅 ❤
I use colored pencils each day for that days symbols.
I think these videos are the perfect substitute for the coloured printing suggestion! I have caught many things that I originally missed because of these videos - so thank you!
I agree! This is challenging enough to put together already - I don't think you need to do anything differently.
P.s. I am addicted to audiobooks! I can't imagine my crafting life without them!!
I also tend to see what is different on the two charts rather than look at the symbols. I have really appreciated the larger charts and that they show all the stitching to date. Makes my counting much easier. I have also appreciated the 7am videos. Thank you for all that you are doing.
I use my magnifiers to see the symbols correctly and I had seen the one in yesterday's stitching in the middle of the little squares in the lower inner corners.
I had a similar thought but instead the new symbols of the day would have a light grey highlight behind them.
I love audiobooks too! I’ve been reading the Armand Gamache series by Louise Penny. I love this series. I pretty much read anything except horror stuff. I love the larger charts this year. ❤
You did a great job of explaining the process of bringing the countdown together each year. Have a great day. See you tomorrow.
Great video again
Books are my jam, and I, too, am all over the genre map. Even though I could not purchase this year, I love the new charting style. Brilliant! Thinking through many of the foibles of PDF charts. Might that be an option for the Advent box? Possibly with a full page chart at the last day? Your loss from unused products, mailing cost, etc. might also make it more affordable. How I love all that is done for this box! You all put do much thought into it! ❤❤❤❤❤
Love the idea of grey-scale for the old stitches & black boxes for the new! I also do what you do - ignore the symbols and look for the new stuff that wasn't on the previous day's card. I love the 8.5x11 size, so please keep that! But it would be really nice to have some way of "highlighting" the new day's stitching (personally I feel that can be done without adding colour, bc you're right, why have the extra expense!) Thanks for the daily company! :)
I love the chart being on one page this year, and I use my magnifiers to look at the chart to clearly differentiate between the past symbols when I am confirming I caught all of the stitches in a section. Keeping up with the pattern makes it easy to see where the new stitches are and I prefer to not have color on the chart. Perhaps the new day's stitches are printed with the symbol on a gray colored background? But if it gets confusing for me I do pull out my set of colored pencils and can highlight some stitches if need be.
I like the idea of the darker/greyscale - but only thing would be differentiating if there are 2 different colours on the same day like we had last time. Though i do love the charts this time.
As for books - I used to hide my book in between my study books and pretend to be studying when I was in school. We lived in a joint family and if anyone was passing by and peeked in, they would assume I was studying 😂. Though I did get caught often enough. Didnt make me stop though. Now I am hooked on to Audiobooks. I do love reading from a physical book, but ebooks have made life so much easier and lighter. Lol. And listening to audiobooks while I stitch or do work around the house makes it more fun. I dont have to choose between stitching and reading.
I also like the idea of grey scale for the old stitches and black symbols for the new stitches. The PDF floss guide that you provided on your website has been a great help. I compare the previous day to the new day and then count the new stitches on the chart. If the numbers don't match, I know I have to look further. I'm so excited to see the Shop update ❤❤
I like the format of each day's cards this year. I just finished a novel call The Masterpiece by Fiona Davis. The setting of the story is Grand Central Station in New York City and an art school that was in the building in the early 1900s.
I’m really loving the SAL ! For me, the chart symbols are too small and hard to read. I absolutely love your videos and look forward to seeing your stitching every day. I couldn’t do this SAL without that. My thought about this is …. Could it be possible to divide the chart into 4 quadrants ? With instructions as to start in the upper left corner (or where ever you want). It definitely may mean repeating some of the colors throughout the chart progress. I personally would be ok with that because the symbols would be larger and for me clearer. I really appreciate the hard work that goes into this process . Thank you so much ! 💜
Caroline, my brother Stephen got me into the Robert Jordan series too…I would love to have a book discussion with you when you finish the series!
🎄🎄🎄
Sometimes I swear we must be related, I am blind as a bat, an eclectic reader and love my crafts. I have a book recommendation The Fourth Wing is a series with 2 books so far. They are even doing a dramatized reading on audible. I am eagerly awaiting the Valentine box as well!
Caroline, you are such an influencer! i went to my library and there is quite the waitlist for Red Rising, all formats! i'm calling it the "Caroline Effect" 😀
I am quite pleased with the format of the chart this year - part of the fun is comparing the charts and seeing what to stitch. I'm probably the odd person who is scanning the chart into a PDF and importing it into markup, tho, which does make it easier. it's because my near vision s*cks and it's easier to see the symbols. after cataract surgery, bringing the chart closer to my face is actually worse!
making the day's symbol a black square messes up the symbol key; i think we'd have to wait for the symbol reveal the next day to complete the key. and then you'd have the expense of a 26th page with the entire chart revealed. oh the challenges. one other idea which probably wouldn't be too popular but i know several entities who issue "boxes" have a limit, if you want to consider that. i know that your very generous nature would get all twitchy about that, and i mean that in the nicest way 😊
I appreciate you and the entire team at evertote, and jacob and kerri! 💕💕(i live in bellingham wa and i consider you my LNS! there is only 1 store in all of washington, and it's in the seattle area.)
Not having participated last year, I am pleased that you went to full sized cards. I will try the process you use instead of looking at the symbols. I understand your process and will be participated again in 2024. Although I saw birds today, not glasses! 😳
Good 🙂 I was teasing about the glasses 🤓 😜
Oooh! I thought a lady with pink eye can't be good! Whew! I am not senile yet! Lol! xx
I think I have a problem with stitch slings, I could not resist and ordered the valentine along Sal, in 40 ct
I love holding an actual book in my hands. Have only listened to a few audiobooks and have not been hooked yet. But I will recommend the book “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt. I might try audio for this one to hear the voice of the main character. Soooooooooooo good!!
I too look for what's different each day. And sometimes I've chosen to postpone stitching part of the pattern that same day, as you suggested regarding the 20 23 and the pink shapes.
I do like the size of the cards this year but I don't think I would like seeing the chart in color. I'm sure that's a great relief to you!
I'm going back and forth on the grayscale/black scheme, though. Would the older portions of the chart show as undifferentiated gray squares? I think I would like the solid black squares for "new" stitches, but would also want at least one card (the last one?) showing the actual symbols. So i guess what I'm suggesting is a hybrid plan for next year.
Or maybe not. I just noticed something else: adjacent solid black squares would melt together visually and would be hard to count because of that.
I love audiobooks! I tend to read mostly mysteries. One of my favorite writers is Louise Penny. I have read all the Three Pines books multiple times. Ralph Cosham narrated the first 9 or 10, and after his passing Robert Bathurst took over. They're both marvelous. My favorite female narrator is Davina Porter, who reads the Outlander series.
I also tend to look for the differences but only because there is no point trying to read the symbols at that size. I even took a picture and zoomed in and many are just way too similar to others to tell what is what. I like your idea of black vs gray going forward. I also, personally, wouldn't mind a smaller chart overall. I didn't do last year's but I bought the pdf after the fact and this year's is a couple thousand stitches less than last years which is great! But I'm still struggling to keep up. No way i could have last year. So I would still advocate for going even smaller in regards to number of stitches. I also like that this year we don't reuse any colors it seems.
Actually, I have been scanning mine and then blowing them up!
I have had a bit of issue with the print size of the symbols also. I also look at the previous days to see the difference. I was wondering if there are less complicated symbols since for instance the Cup(day10) and day 15 and 12 get a bit muddled to my older eyes. But I love the chart, and am not complaining, just answering your prompt! Loving the chart, the colors. Everything looks great
I like the idea of black and grey scale. My eyesight isn’t great either and I photograph the daily chart each day which lessens the clarity and then view the chart in GoodNotes and it’s sometimes hard to distinguish the symbols. So grey scale would be excellent. Although…like everything I’m sure there are some unintended consequences. Honestly, though, it’s been pretty easy to follow the charts so even with no changes I plan to join in next year❤️
I'm a recent convert to PDF files and stitching using my iphone so I can zoom. Perhaps next year automated emails can be a daily option. I personally wouldn't be keeping all of the large print outs
Yes, audiobooks and stitching - my happy place. Libby (from our public library) and I are good friends. Thanks for your videos.
I’m with you, I just look for those areas that appear new! Your videos have been great to catch the odd one I may have missed. The idea of a gray scale with black for the new is a great one. Just put in today’s last stitch and thank you for all the work in putting these together for us 😊
I like the 8 1/2 x 11 cards you used this year. My suggestion is to keep the cards and just darken the symbol/s for that day. Leave the rest as a light gray. 😊
I like the idea of grayed out and dark. However, I would still like the symbols if possible. For me a daily .pdf would be even better, as I cross stitch using GoodNotes and each day. As a working copy, I take a picture of the chart and upload the daily stitching into the program so that I can mark off my stitches as I do them. At the end of the Countdown SAL, like last year I did last year, I will delete the working copy from GoodNotes. Thanks for asking. smile😊😊
Me again haha - totally with you on audiobooks!! My comfort audiobook listens are Agatha Christie! Hugh Fraser narrates a lot of them (he is the perfect Poirot!) and curling up on the couch listening while stitching or knitting is heaven!!
I am a pretty new stitcher and I didn't struggle with last year or this year. I think the larger sheets is an improvement on last year. There are pros and cons to all the options and I think you have to do what makes sense to the most people. I worry the black squares will be just as, or more confusing to people. Fun doesn't always have to equal easy- I've loved the tiny challenges, like the counting as a way to stretch and grow. I also look for differences, not symbols before then confirming what I'm stitching. With a mystery there is going to be an element of figuring things out that doesn't happen when you have the whole chart, and that's OK for me. I appreciate the conversation and your willingness to improve. I have no complaints so far this year 😊
I, too, am a big reader. However, it took me a LONG LONG time to get comfortable with the audiobooks. I solved it this way: I listened to an audiobook of a book I had read already. And, viola == I got it. I really am able to listen to ANY audiobook, now - even the AI read stuff. (this may help some people out there). Caroline, I love love love your dedication to stitching & it shows with the Christmas countdown. Thank you and thanks to your wonderful team and of course, Jacob. Blessings to all. Jeanette Sizzle
I also (methodically) compare the current chart with the days before to find the new stitches and it has worked really well. I missed a few stitches but it wasn’t that bad….we still have the flosses. That’s part of the enjoyment of cracking the mystery. It’s not much different than missing stitches on any chart….😂 You, Jacob, etc. actually did a great job!❤
Oh no, our panda turned into a raccoon. :)
Catching up from 6 days behind to 4. Tomorrow will probably be another day of holiday preparation and no stitching but at least it is friday.
I hope anyone reading this are on schedule with their plans and manage to avoid all the colds going around.
I worry about the grey out idea on if we miss stitching we’d have to flip back through the cards to tell the color. I see the trouble seeing symbols but maybe a daily pdf option for those who need a bigger view would save money and let people participate easier up to the end of the countdown? I know that would be more work for you to have an automated system but I’d love to have a pdf in the end and it may make packaging and shipping cheaper for those who prefer it.
You would also have to have a final version with symbols printed at the end too if you went with the grey/black version so we would have the completed pattern at the end. That would then add another chart to print.
Hi Caroline! I have been following the SAL every morning while I enjoy my first coffee. I am now regretting not joining in the fun this year. To be honest, the cost (not blaming you as there is great value there) is prohibitive ESPECIALLY when you have no idea if it will coordinate with your decor. Having watched the colour reveals to-date, 2023 would have worked very nicely in my home. Might there be a chance of showing the colours beforehand when the kit goes on sale? Just snippets of the palette perhaps not the colour name nor when it will be used. Keeping my fingers crossed! Merry Christmas!🎄
Great ideas! The daily PDF is an option that we have discussed and rejected the past two years for a few reasons. Firstly - setting up the auto system is fraught with customer service issues. email address errors being input incorrectly to begin with. (It happens all the time, just takes one keystroke) Then - as we find with our few pdf sales that we do now (and this isn't a huge issue because it might be one or two cutomer issues per week) but sometimes PDF's don't arrive, or they go into spam - and we have to take the time to correct each individual issue - daily x 25 days x upwards of 800 people who want their stitching NOW, when we're maybe at home having dinner with our family. I get messages on all social media platforms at all hours of the day when there is something missing and it's not a nice feeling to know that I've spoiled someones' daily treat. This would be on top of sometimes missing floss etc. So hard copies are really the best way from a logistics point of view for us.
As far as missing stitches and having to go back for colour - I think that a combo of video and still having a symbol system but using grey scale is enough for the vast majority. I don't mind a few emails from stitchers if they're really struggling and need help, but that would not an overwhelming amount, I don't think. There is also a PLETHORA of posts throughout the month on IG - quick search would show others finish of colours.
Thanks for the great ideas! We will continue to consider PDF's each year as we design the box - nothing is ever a hard no.
@@OfftheGridNeedlearts oh I totally assume you’ve gone through the pros and cons of each option. I have to just add I really love this year’s version. Sure the symbols are sometimes close but with the videos I think they are great. I don’t know if you’ll please more with changes but I’ll buy next year’s box either way. ;)
Hi, l m stitching like you, doing what was not there the previous day. Just to jump on the grey scale, great idea but I would prefer dots symbol instead of square, I have a chart with black squares and its really hard to count.
I love the idea of graying the already stitched areas, but please don't take away the symbols. Filled squares all black and / or gray would be hard on the eyes. One cost saver could be the quality of paper on the cards, maybe just regular paper for the dailies and no card stock until the end. What I felt like I missed was a final mock-up on the last day to show the finished piece "stitched." All of that said, one thing would have made this year perfect, and that's if the charts had been enlarged to fit the page. There are several symbols that look the same when they are so tiny. For example, the coffee mug symbol looked like a misshapen circle and was right next to an actual circle. There are 2 symbols next to each other that look both like bold x's when printed so small. One thing that has helped me is to highlight the previous stitching before starting a new day. Spend some time with it and flip through the previous cards and highlight real quick, and then you know what you have left to stitch for that day. Any way you turn it though I've loved it. Something that would have taken me forever to comp,ete broken down into 25 days was wonderful.
Try Brandon Sanderson’s Way of Kings. You’re a girl after my own heart!
What if you made the current day's stitching in just a solid square of color?
Another thought... Is a daily pdf email remotely an option? The last couple days I've been really burned out on stitching from paper as it's just not something I do and don't enjoy the process of. It could be a cost saving measure if people pre order it that way plus a much smaller package to ship.
Morning Caroline!!! I absolutely love your idea of greyed out vs. black (honestly I said that out loud before you said it). I love that Shepherd's Bush piece - I really want to try a chart that has specialty stitches do you have any suggestions? Also I cannot find what email you wanted us to use if we wanted to send comments about our order-I know you said it in one of the videos but can't find it.
I had to look up what AN NO meant. .found out "year". Maybe mention that for other people who are watching and stitching and wondering the same thing.
Hi! I did 🙂 in the daily video part 2 from that day where I explained that I’d missed those stitches.
I have been doing what you have been doing with the countdown and just looking at what is new on one card versus the next. Your daily videos are sufficient enough to help those of us who made need extra help. While yes the symbols are small you can see the difference between them if you take an extra second. I appreciate having it all on one page and it building each day. (So if I am a few days behind on stitching I just look at the most recent day and work off of that for all the previous days). I honestly think doing away with the symbols and just doing squares will cause other issues for people. My only suggestion would be is it necessary to have each day be on card stock? I have participated in another company’s advent in the past and they just used regular paper. This would help to bring down the cost of the box and you could just provide the final pattern in card stock. Regardless Caroline I have been enjoying the floss, the pattern and the process this year as much as last year.
I’d say this piece is definitely not a neutral palette. Really bummed. I did take the plunge as this was described as neutral. It’s a beautiful pattern but unfortunately these floss colors are way too bright and nothing goes together. Very disheartening as this was promised to be a neutral palette. So my suggestion would be to just state facts regarding next years advent. At day 20 and forcing myself to complete. 😢
I am really sorry to hear that you are not enjoying. I have to say that I never remember describing this as neutral colours which I would consider beiges/browns/tans/creams/greys. I’m fairly certain we used the terms “muted dirty jewel tones” back in February and the other few times we were asked about the colours. If compared to last years I would say it’s a more toned down palette. My memory of course is never perfect so if I did in fact say the word neutral, that was in error. The flosses themselves were planned to go together so that you would have tones that work together in your stash when finished. The blues, greens, purples etc. Hopefully you will enjoy your leftovers in a different manner. 🙂
As a further suggestion - why would you force yourself to complete something you dislike so much? It’s not a huge pattern, you could select a few of the shades that you do like and substitute them out for the stitched sections that you really don’t like and then maybe you’d like it a bit more. It would only take a little time to restitch it and then you’d have a piece that you liked.
@@OfftheGridNeedlearts I’m finishing so it’s not wasted and hoping a friend can enjoy it. Plus I treated myself to a project and it’s my first advent and wanted to experience it. Is that ok?
Im sure your question wasn’t meant to be condescending and I’m hoping something is lost in translation of text. I still have hope for humanity but You asked for suggestions and I was sharing mine like others who did not receive such a question.
As far as a February video I’m not aware. I ordered after this was spoken of during the summer. You would find your comment there.
Hi - I'm sorry that I don't know your name to respond properly to you. You're right - tone is impossible to convey. My question to you was absolutely meant as a conversational response to your statement saying that you were forcing yourself to finish. I honestly want everyone to enjoy their finish just as much as the process, and I hope that the effort I put forth in these videos and the amount of time spent focusing on details shows that to be true. I very much apologize that you found my question condescending - it was not intentional at all. Simply trying to come up with a way that you would enjoy your finish.
I also, can totally see that the word neutral may have come out of my mouth, (or Kerri's) and as I said above - I very well could have, I wasn't denying it. From the beginning we tried to compare it to last years box which was VERY bright - super modern bright tones, and we knew when comparing then entire pack this year it was way more muted. If you look at our floss club subscriptions - Kerri uses the word "Neutrals" for one of our clubs - they are meant to be more traditional in tone than our Brights/Modern pack so if she or I used this word, it would have been a descriptive word based on opinion and trying very hard to differentiate it from last years floss pack WITHOUT being able to show anything physically, using only words. Your suggestion to me to "just state facts" when talking about opinions on colour is a lot trickier problem to fix when my opinion on muted/ traditional colours might differ from yours, than hey "these symbols on the chart are hard to read, or "how about a PDF option"
My sincerest apologies if you feel misled by my previous descriptive words about the colour palette and in the future I will try to be more careful of my word choices. If this is a conversation you wish to continue at all, please feel free to email me directly as responses to youtube comments on older videos can sometimes get lost.
caroline@evertote.ca
I enjoyed the conversation about expenses that go into providing such a quality box as this. I haven't participated; as I'm really working to reduce my stash after collecting for more years than I'd like to admit lol. But after hearing your discussion, I was reminded of something I saw in another advent video for a different box. What if you gave people a special code that would provide them access to a pdf version of the chart in your shop or a separate website for a pdf file with a version that has new symbols highlighted in color? I'm sure it would involve more effort and technology than I'm thinking, but thought it might be somehow doable.
I completely agree with you - I would listen to Scott Brick read a dictionary if that was what was available. The plus side is that I've found some really enjoyable reads that I wouldn't have chosen otherwise, but picked because he was the narrator. 🪡👠