CROSS-STITCH, by Jazmina Barrera. Translated by Christina MacSweeney. Needlework is often depicted as a peaceful activity: feminine, unthreatening, decorative.

ALAMEDA, CA - AUGUST 13: Cross-stitch artist Olivia Basegio, of San Leandro, looks at different kind of floss at the Needle in a Haystack shop in Alameda, Calif., on Friday, Aug. 13, 2021.

As Athanas can attest, cross-stitching is all about connection. Just as it binds thread and cloth to create art, so, too, does it bond people from all walks of life who may never have met otherwise.

The beauty of counted cross stitch is that it is affordable and even a beginner can make something beautiful. “And you can do it for as little as $10,” Hronec said.