Intro
Hey there, artists! I hope you're doing well. I'm reaching out because I'm looking for pixel art submissions to create counted cross-stitch patterns. Cross-stitch is a form of embroidery that uses colored thread on square canvas to create beautiful art. It's like the analog version of pixel art! Cross stitch can take months or even years to complete, so there is a huge market for smaller patterns that are still colorful, detailed, and eye-catching. Plus, limited color palettes are especially popular, making it easier for newer stitchers to keep their supplies organized. I believe that pixel artists have much to offer to the world of cross-stitch, and I would love to see what you have on offer!

The Plan
The first goal is to build some bridges with artists and work on building a reasonable library of patterns to populate an online store. I am looking for submissions in 3 categories:

1. Original Art - Higher quality pieces with iconic imagery or popular themes. No copyrighted content
2. Background Art - Colorful pieces with room to add quotes. This is a popular subgenre in the stitching world
3. Fan Art - Due to copyright limitations, these pieces will pay the least as the patterns they are used for will be offered for free as a way of generating interest and drawing attention to the other two categories.

Compensation
As I'm starting this project from scratch, I want to be transparent about the compensation options I have in mind. Here are two options that we can discuss:

1. We can negotiate a price for the use of an existing piece of your pixel art, and I'll pay upfront. Any sales that result from the use of your art will be mine to keep.
2. Alternatively, we can negotiate a percentage cut so that you'll receive a portion of every pattern sold that features your art. Please note that this option is faith-based since sales won't happen until I have an online storefront and a library of patterns.

Regardless of which option we agree on, you'll receive full credit on the cover of the final product, including links to your homepage or online portfolio.

I want to emphasize that I'm not asking for new pieces specifically for this project. Instead, I'm seeking submissions of existing pixel art that you're already satisfied with. You'll also have the final say on whether you're happy with how your art is converted to DMC thread colors. If you submit art in the background category, please note that it may be transformed via the addition of text.

Thanks so much for considering this opportunity. I look forward to discussing compensation and collaborating with you!