Need First poject stitch and color count recommendations

[Flawed]

I've already gotten some great help here about how to get the final look I want in my first cross stitch project. Now, I'm wondering what the stitch and color count should be. I don't want to pick a project that I won't finish because I tend to get discouraged when I don't finish things. I'm going to be using 18 count Aida. As I stated in other my other post, I love crafts that use grid based patterns, and I only enjoy doing my own designs, so kits are out of the question. I've already designed a chart but it's 144x144 stitches with 12 colors. I'm wondering if that is a bit lofty for a first project. As always I highly value all personal insights on the topic.

[karen4bells]

I think that 12 colors should be a good start---not too complex from the sounds of it---the stitched area will be 8 inches square, so you should have fabric that is about 14 inches square so you can leave a 3 inch border all around---make sure to center it up too

[Allyn]

I agree with Karen. It's a small project, relatively speaking, and only 12 colors. It sounds quite manageable.

[richardandtracy]

You are taking a more sensible approach than I did. My first project was a kit 300 x 250, with 29 colours. Took me a year...

Regards,

Richard

[rcperryls]

I agree also. Sounds very reasonable and doable for a first project. Make sure you post progress pictures so we can cheer you on!

Carole

[crosstitcher1]

Sounds reasonable to "handle" for you to me.
I've been stitching for 31 yrs., this past July, and the "biggest" size projects I have ever done are 11" x 14"s. 1 was a Angel of Light, done for my late oldest sis for Christmas in 2010, and from 2011 up til now, 26, In Loving Memory Remembrances, 5 verse poem with 2 angels. I have "kitted" 8 afghans for the 8 family members and the 1st. one will be started later this year, after I get 6 more, In Loving Memory Remembrances done, and 2 b/d teacup posies, build my "own" afghan stand, "outdoor" stitching area and thread carousel, sometime in May.
Good luck on your "adventure" of working on "bigger" projects and like Carol said, please post pics. We "love" progress" pics. and cheering people on their progress.

HAPPY STITCHING IN STITCHING LAND.

[Brekkana]

You are taking a more sensible approach than I did. My first project was a kit 300 x 250, with 29 colours. Took me a year...

Regards,

Richard

My Colorful Kitten is 640x762 ... with 110 colors ... it will probably take me four years! My Fantasy Fairy is 640x458 ... with 87 colors ... another 2 or 3 years ... I almost envy you, Flawed What does your design look like? I can't wait to see pics!

[jillyann]

Yes for first project you should keep the number if colours low. My sistine chapel is aporox 120 solid colours and about 90 blended with half a million cross stitches.

[richardandtracy]

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

That's the most coherent comment I can come up with.

Regards,

Richard

[fccs]

I think your approach is very good. Twelve colors and 144x144 is a quite manageable. Cross stitch is a hobby to be loved and enjoyed; as long as you enjoy what you're doing, the size and complexity really don't matter.