Painted Cross Stitch Heart Dish Towel

If you saw my napkins, then you know that I'm continuing with my cross stitch heart theme, but this time there is no sewing necessary.  Using the check or large gingham as my grid, I painted on my X's.  I decided to use the ombre effect again to make it a little more interesting.  You always need dish towels (or tea towels as I call them), and if they are cute, even better.

I used Martha Stewart's craft paints in Pink Flamingo, Wedding Cake and Pink Carnation. The darkest color is the Pink Flamingo, the middle tone is Pink Carnation mixed with a little Pink Flamingo and the lightest color is Wedding Cake mixed with a little Pink Carnation.  Using a this detail paint brush, I started in the middle of the towel and painted the bottom X first.  My lines are far from perfect, but if you've ever painted on fabric, you know how tough this can be.  But, I really don't mind the imperfections, it's what makes this look handmade.  Some things you just don't want to look like a machine created it. I think the charm is in the uneven brush strokes.

I actually bought 2/3 of a yard of fabric and hemmed the fabric to make two towels, but you can also find cute pre-made gingham and check towels online, like these ones.

If you are in the LA area and would love to get your craft on with me, I'm hosting a Craft Workshop on Feb. 8th at the West Elm Los Angeles.  Get your ticket soon, there is limited space.  I'm making yummy treats for us to snack on and I've got some great goody/sway bags for all the guests.  I'd love to see you there.