As cross-stitch has become an increasingly popular form of craftwork in China, so Chinese culture has played a role of influence of cross-stitch, particularly in the patterns used for cross-stitch around the world. Chinese characters have become a trendy cross-stitch subject, with auspicious Chinese symbols used as cross-stitch patterns.
The types of Chinese characters popular in cross-stitch kits are generally auspicious symbols that represent good luck, fortune, peace, love, happiness and well-being. Since most Chinese people will hang these types of cross-stitch pictures in their homes, it is important that the symbols portrayed on the cross-stitches be auspicious in nature.
Popular Chinese cross-stitch symbols include:
Good fortune/luck – Fu – This most auspicious of symbols represents good luck, good fortune and general blessings. Often posted upside down for Chinese New Year, when inverted, the character “Fu” looks like “came”.
Love – Ai – This Chinese symbol for ‘love’ can refer to both romantic love and friendship love, and is a wonderful symbol to offer someone as a wish for love in their life.
Harmony – He – This character is an extremely auspicious symbol, for in Chinese culture, having harmonious relations with those around you is one of the most important things in life.
Double Happiness – Shuang Xi – This ancient character is often associated with weddings, and placed on wedding beds, invitations and in the homes of newlyweds. Cross-stitch patterns featuring a Double Happiness symbol would make wonderful wedding gifts, particularly if red thread colors are used.
Prosperity – Lu – This character is often used in fengshui decorating because it is said to bring wealth and riches.
Longevity – Shou – This Chinese character can mean “life”, “age” or even “birthday” and represents longevity and health. This would be an appropriate cross-stitch symbol to give someone to wish them a long life.
Cross-stitch pictures with auspicious Chinese symbols make wonderful gifts, especially housewarming presents or offerings to newlyweds to help adorn their home with lucky and fortunate sayings.
