The most famous of all stitches, cross-stitch is not just for your aunt anymore. Perhaps ’cause it’s easier and more versatile than knitting, this traditional form has become repopularized along with all things craftsy and granny-ish, even in Fashionland. This project can be done in a few hours, even if you’re scared of needles.

What you’ll need: Clear cell phone case, needle, different colours of thread, fabric, scissors, paper and pencil (to create a pattern), patience.

How we do:
1)   Start by finding a pattern. There are a million sites, give or take, that have free patterns and fonts. But try to be inspired. Our cross-stitch pattern was taken from the hilarious tweets of @JennyHolzerMom. (Just what it sounds like: a Twitter account based on Jenny Holzer if she were a sitcom mom.)

2)  Depending on what type of phone (and size of case) you have, cut your pattern and then the fabric accordingly.

3)   Use two or three strands of thread. Thread your needle and start stitching. For beginners, just use simple single stitches (best for doing lettering as well). Use cross stitching for images.

4)   Get frustrated when your cat starts playing with the thread.

5)   Go crazy. Switch colours. Write obscenities.

6)   When finished, attach to the back of the cell phone case and attach to your phone.

7)   Admire your work, show it to all your friends.

8)   Make more and sell them on Etsy for ridiculous prices.

Christina Welton is an intern at Toronto Standard.