
FAQs
Welcome to the land of tiny x's, endless skeins of floss, and more fabric than anyone could possibly use in a lifetime! I stitched up this FAQ to save you from unnecessary tsuris (that's Yiddish for stress).
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๐ General Questions
What is Shalom Needlecraft?
- This is a cozy, safe space dedicated to peaceful stitching.
- While I personally encourage all sorts of relaxing hobbies, this space is dedicated to handmade needlecraft items, unique cross-stitch patterns, nifty tools, and cute accessories.
Do I need to be an expert-level stitcher to shop here?
- Not at all! The vast majority of my patterns include full cross-stitches and simple backstitch only and are therefore very beginner friendly!
- You will also notice that I provide the recommended stitching level (beginner / all - intermediate - advanced - expert) on all my patterns as a guideline. However, if you are still unsure, feel free to contact me.
- As I add more kits to my shop, you will notice that they include most (if not all) you need to get started.
Do you only sell Jewish-themed designs?
- Nope! While Judaica is certainly the heart of my shop, you will also find pop-culture, more modern, and just-plain-funny patterns as well. Think of me as a popular bagel shop that also serves up a decadent apple pie occasionally. One could say that I have experienced a full and well-rounded life!
๐งต Digital Patterns
How do I get my pattern after purchase?
- Easy-peasy! Once your payment clears, you'll get an instant download link via email (and in your account if you make one). No waiting, no shipping, no carrier pigeons (as cute as they are).
What is included with my download purchase?
- A clear chart / pattern (both color and black & white versions).
- A full-size colored block rendering of the final image (with grid-lines and row / column numbers).
- A one-page BONUS reference guide for those who are new to cross-stitching. It includes a short "how to guide" and tips and tricks for best results.
- A little thank you note and a QR code link to join the exclusive VIP mailing list (for free)! Just scan it with the photo app on your smart phone and click on the link.
What does the digital pattern look like / what information does it contain?
- Click here to see actual examples of what these files look like...
Can I print the files out?
- Yes, absolutely! The files ending in .pdf are letter-sized (8.5 x 11-inch / 216 x 279 mm) and can be printed on a regular home printer (in either black & white or color).
- The file ending in .png is intended to be a single contiguous pattern that can be referenced on a tablet / smart phone. This is the file that you could potentially have printed in a larger size at a professional printing shop.
Are your digital patterns compatible with Pattern Keeper software?
- Yes. All my charts have been tested and are verified to work with Pattern Keeper. However, I am not affiliated with Pattern Keeper.
Can these patterns be used for other kinds of stitches or crafts?
- Yes, indeed! Counted cross-stitch patterns in this format lend themselves quite nicely to needlepoint, diamond painting, and perler beading. One symbol on the pattern represents one stitch / diamond / bead. Have fun with it and get creative (not that you NEED my permission)!
Do you stitch these all up yourself before photographing them?
- The truthful answer here is no. I mean, I would love to, but even with a bottomless coffee pot, I'd only release, roughly two patterns a year. Instead, I use digital mock-ups from my specialized software to give you a realistic preview. I also use this method to showcase a variety of creative ways you could adapt the pattern (if you were to stitch it on a piece of clothing or a fabric bag) if you dont want to hang all your finished pieces on the wall.
- While I do love to stitch many of my own designs, I will often do that after I have posted the pattern online. This is so that I can get them into your hands as soon as possible. Once I am done, I will then take photographs and go back to update the listing.
- I also do work with a small group of trusted test-stitchers who help me out here and there - which is why you will notice some variations in the listing photographs.
- However, I want you to know that I meticulously create my own designs stitch by stitch. No AI generated nothing over here. My software is specialized and very accurate and I go through multiple rounds of curating and iterating upon my own designs. I hope you will notice that attention to detail by the implicit high quality of these designs.
๐ Vinyl Stickers
Are your stickers waterproof?
- Yes - these stickers can handle a little bit of water, but probably not a dishwasher apocalypse.
Where can I stick them?
- Laptops, water bottles, notebooks, phone cases... anywhere that needs a little personality.
Do you ship these quickly?
- Yes! I keep low quantities of these stickers on-hand so that they are in-stock and available for sale.
- Unfortunately, that means that once they sell out, it will take me a while to restock them.
- But I typically ship these out within 2-3 business days.
Can I buy these as gifts?
- Of course! They make great little add-ons - like sprinkles on a cupcake. I personally love to add one or two to my gift-wrapping.
๐ฆ Kits & Supplies
What does a kit contain?
- More details coming soon...
๐ป Technical Issues
I cant find my download link - help!
- First and foremost, check your email spam folder. Once the order has been successfully processed, you will receive an email as confirmation and it should include a download link for your purchase.
- It is often also a good idea to create an account on this website via Shop because then you are able to reference all your historical purchases as well in one place.
- If you are still having trouble, please feel free to contact me and include your order number and I will resend the files to you.
The file won't open?
- The pattern files have a .pdf extension. Therefore, you will need a free PDF reader to open them. That software is available for free download here: http://get.adobe.com/reader/
- There are also a variety of phone / tablet apps that you can use. Just let me know if you are running into any trouble.
๐ Orders & Shipping
When will I receive my order?
- If you purchased an electronic download, the answer is immediately! As soon as payment clears, you will receive a link to download all your files and you could start right away.
- But if you purchased a physical item that requires shipping, it will take longer I am afraid. Processing orders usually takes around 2-3 business days and then you need to add on some time for shipping. In the U.S., most orders will arrive within one week after being shipped.
- Please click on your order tracking link to get the most updated information.
Do you ship internationally?
- Unfortunately, not at this time. But I do expect to in the not too distant future.
What if my order arrives damaged?
- Oy! I am sorry! But these things do occasionally happen. Please send me a message immediately with photo's of the issue and I will try my best to make it right.
๐ก Creative & Usage
Can I sell the items I make from your patterns?
- Yes. Finished pieces that you have hand-stitched from the exact pattern you have purchased from me may be sold.
- However, Shalom Needlecraft patterns and designs are copyright protected and may not be redistributed, reproduced, or shared in any manner.
- You do not have my implicit or explicit permission to machine-embroider any of my work.
- When sharing your finished work on social media, please always remember to credit me (Shalom Needlecraft) and provide a reference to this website.
Can I request custom edits to a pattern?
- Yes, you are welcome to contact me and ask. Depending on the extent of changes requested, I may need to charge an additional fee. But I will always try and make accommodations wherever possible.
๐
Fun Extras
Do I need to be Jewish to stitch these patterns?
- Nope! My patterns are for anyone who loves stitching. Whether you are Jewish, Jew-ish, or just here for the pretty designs, you are more than welcome! โค๏ธ
Why cross-stitch?
- Because it's arguably the best hobby! It is easy to learn, relaxing, portable, screen-free, and way more fun than doom-scrolling! Also, it keeps your hands busy so your can't text your ex.
Will this project take forever to complete?
- Well... that depends on your Netflix habits. If you are binge-watching a good show while stitching, the time will fly by. But if you are only cramming in a few stitches at a time between Zoom meetings... well, let's just say your grandchildren will treasure it! ๐