James Weldon Johnson, a prolific writer during the Harlem Renaissance, attorney, civil rights activist, school principal, and a leader of the NAACP is an example of Black Excellence. J. Weldon Johnson authored the timeless poem, “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” which is now known as the Black National Anthem.

J. Rosamond Johnson, Harlem Renaissance composer and performer, composed the music to, “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing.” The composition takes us on a journey through the challenges and the hopes of overcoming as a people. He too is a portrait of excellence as this song has been covered or referenced by artists such as, James Brown, Stephanie Mills, Anita Baker, Bebe and Cece Winans, and Beyonce just to name a few.

Please look forward to the companion stitch, “Lift Every Voice: A Cross Stitch Sampler.” Stay tuned to Miasia’s Flosstube for announcements, updates, and stitch-a-longs.

The portrait of James Weldon and J. Rosamond Johnson are the first of the stitched series, Portraits of Black Excellence. Influential figures of old who blazed the path for emerging excellence will be added to the series on an annual basis.

Cross stitch and other crafts, such as quilting are tangible reminders of the legacy you leave to your loved ones. When you use the fiber required to bring these patterns to life, you are Stitching in Color™.

Hardcopy Only 

James Weldon Johnson: Model stitched by Miasia King

Stitched 2 over 2 on 32 ct Linen
Linen: Vintage Beeswax by R & R Reproductions
Finished Size: 4” W x 7” H
Stitch Count: 51 W x 95 H

J. Rosamond Johnson: Model Stitched by Alexis Henderson (IG & Flosstube)

Stitched 2 over 2 on 28 ct Jobelan  
Evenweave: Queen Anne's Lace by Wichelt
Finished Size: 4 W” x 5” H
Stitch Count: 65 W x 71 H

Floss Colors:

• DMC ECRU
• DMC 738 Tan Very Light
• DMC 739 Tan Ultra Very Light
• DMC 840 Beige Brown Medium
• DMC 841 Beige Brown Light
• DMC 3371 Black Brown (2 Skeins per chart)
• DMC 3781 Mocha Brown Dark
• DMC 3790 Beige Grey Ultra Dark