cross stitch design close-up of Madeline Kahn as Mrs. White in “Clue” (1985) with “FLAMES” in background

make a scene

cross stitch, pop cultch, let's kvetch

by Justin L. Gibson


seen– stich-er/proper noun/hyphenated lowercase

/artist who appropriates (steals) attention via oddity, awe, and a ton of tiny-ass Xs


Cross your art and call me Oprah: designs and mashups paying tribute to this millennial’s favorite things. Usually relevant, rarely reverent, shop small and stimulate my economy.

setting the scene


mama-stitcher Lil with Li’l Red and Justin

Not your mama’s cross stitch, though scene‑stitcher is a tribute to my late mom’s crafty skills, loving legacy, and immigrant spirit. She taught me the fundamentals long ago for my first Tweety Bird cross stitch, and I requested a COVID-era refresher during what would be our last Thanksgiving together.

When I found black aida cloth I realized I could mimic film stills and combine cross stitch with my graphic design experience and pop culture obsessions: self-care for me, smiles all around.

Thank you for shopping locally, gifting thoughtfully, and supporting my guiding threads: comical, practical, radical.

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maybe I could email you sometime?