Web 2.0, including social networking sites, online forums and message boards, allow more open communication online than ever available. Friendships are formed and information is shared. Stitchers have the opportunity to learn from more advanced crafters in cross stitch patterns forums, and it gives you the opportunity to share your knowledge with others.
There are a variety of different cross stitch forums available to people online. A few cross stitch magazines host an online forum where members can share patterns, ask technique questions, and offer links to the best pattern websites.
The only downfall to the forums is that spending time reading and answering the different threads takes away from the time that you would be spending stitching.
Common categories on cross stitch patterns forums include: a trading section, an area to show-off your work, an area to ask questions, and an area to post links to patterns. Often people visiting cross stitching forums are seeking help to locate a hard-to-find pattern, and the experienced cross stitchers can point them in the right direction.
Like-minded people visit forums when they would like to discuss cross stitch dilemmas. It is unlikely you’ll find people to talk about cross stitching with when you’re at the company picnic or at a business dinner party. When you’re on a cross stitch patterns forum, however, you’ll be able to talk and discuss your favorite hobby and no one will think you’re strange!
Scheduling a certain time of day, or day of the week, to visit a forum is one way to have time for stitching while enjoying the camaraderie of the forum. Another way to limit your forum time is to limit the responses you make or the questions you ask. If you’re not careful, you may find you’re trying to find a pattern for someone else when you should be stitching on your own project.
Once you have browsed the cross stitch patterns forums and chosen one that interests you, don’t be afraid to jump right in on a conversation. The first post on a new message board can sometimes be intimidating, but you will soon discover that you fit right in with your fellow cross stitchers. It is the common interest that builds the relationships.
0 comments:
Post a Comment