I Love My Vintage Camper Cross-Stitch

1/17/2018

by Melody Gilmore
I have been having a wonderful time combining three passions of mine - cross-stitch, travel trailers, and postcards (see issue #4 of the Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine, October 2012: Greetings from Trailer Town Campground). Camping and visiting America's spectacular national parks is something else I love to do. Collecting vintage postcards of Yellowstone has been a popular hobby since my first trip in 1988. A lifetime resident of central Ohio, I always long for the days when I can discover a new trail or scenic campsite among the peaks and pines.

In 2012, some of my glamping gurus asked if I could create cross-stitch patterns of their vintage campers. I shared those designs on social media along with some other trailerite creations. After numerous nudgings from friends and family over the years, I finally decided to start a design business (facebook at openroadabode or email openroadabode@gmail.com). My initial series included small 4x6" patterns printed on postcards. This year will introduce several larger designs and "camper samplers" (to be released at the Nashville Needlework Market in March).

The timing couldn't seem to be more perfect as more and more Americans are hitting the open road and enjoying all the benefits that recreational living has to offer. Crafting while camping is also experiencing a surge in popularity...particularly needlework. Compact and portable, small projects can be packed in vehicles and trailers for your leisurely convenience. And they make great gifts for exchanges at gatherings or to add to your own lovely, camping décor.

Isango.com - Best Things to Do Around the World

I have created a special design for Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine readers that I hope you will enjoy stitching in whatever fabric and floss colors you desire- "making it your own." Not a cross-stitcher, but would love to learn this simple form of embroidery? There are many basic tutorials on the Internet to get you started. Just like hitching, take one step (or stitch) at a time and have fun with all the adventures that await you with a needle and thread!