I do both, but I like kits more!
I like both except the kits are usually much more expensive to buy. I usually buy patterns because I have all DMC thread colors plus a few others.
I prefer patterns because I often change the type of thread in a design.Sometimes I replace the DMC for a satin or metallic to add a little more glare, my personal touch... I cant do that with a kit b/c I would need additional floss.
I prefer pattern over kits too, only because I change the fabric and sometimes even the colors too. :)
Patterns for me, I like to choose what fabric I use and what floss. At christmas, I like to change standard threads for speciality threads :loveliness:
I think it all depends on the design. If I really fell in love with a particular design and it doesnt exist as a chart, I do buy the kit. And I agree with some of the comments, kits typically contain far too much tissue and/or thread. If Im not particulary happy with the choice of the tissue/thread colours in the kit, Ive no problem in switching it with some I like more and used the provided ones for other projects. But yes, I do think that half the fun is putting toghether all the materials and start picturing in my head how the final project will look like so if Im given the choice, for the same design, between chart and kit, Ill go for the chart.
Whichever you choose, just have fun:D
B.
i find there are alot more patterns available than kits so i love getting the patterns, and then it gives me a reason to go shopping for the rest :)
working from a pattern
If I buy a kit I always change the fabric and threads anyway. Sometimes the fabric and threads are not really good quality. So I guess the only benefit of buying kit would be to get the pattern.
patrones, sin duda