Thread Heart Valentine

I'm not one to get all excited about Valentine's Day, but I do love a good opportunity to craft!  I have seen cards created like this before, and wanted to make my own version.  It only took about 15 minutes, so perfect for instant gratification!

 

The first step is to cut a piece of cardstock in half so you have two pieces that are each 8.5"x5.5".  Fold them in half to make a card shape. (Of course, you can use any size paper for this.)

Once you have the paper cut, you can draw your heart.  Do this on the inside of the card so that the pencil marks won't show.  Don't worry about getting it perfect, since you can't really tell when it's all just string! 

Add dots to the line, then start threading the heart!

I found it useful to punch all the holes with my needle first, so I could see them from the other side (where the threading was happening).  Just make a design that looks good to you!  If you don't like it, you can always pull out some of the thread and try again.

To finish the card, glue the second piece of paper to the inside to cover up the back of the heart.  Write your message, and gift!

Anatomical Heart Free Cross Stitch Pattern

 I first designed this pattern over a year ago and got about 50% done with the project before abandoning it (I have learned that I lose interest quick if there are huge swatches of color.).  I have tweaked it a little and put it into a fancy PDF for you. 

Anatomical hearts are cool, right?  As a biologist, I feel that I must present at least one organ pattern.  Though I must admit, my knowledge of anatomy and physiology is pretty basic because I am a Cell Biologist.  So expect some awesome cell patterns!

 Want a PDF of the pattern?  Here it is!  Just, you know, link back and whatnot. :)