Never Think About It; Or You Lose.
Every now and then I design a cross-stitch pattern that isn't just pretty to look at, but also carries a little wink of humour or nostalgia. My "The Game" pattern is exactly that. It's simple, cheeky, and if you know the reference… well, I'm sorry (but also not sorry).
So, what is "The Game"?
If you've never heard of it before, The Game is one of those early-internet mind pranks. The rules are simple:
- Don't think about The Game.
- The moment you do think about it, you lose.
- When you lose, you have to announce it: "I just lost The Game."
That's it! Completely ridiculous, totally unwinnable, and absolutely iconic. For years, people would randomly post "You just lost The Game" online, or shout it in classrooms and workplaces, instantly triggering groans and laughter from anyone in on the joke.
The Game itself is a wonderfully absurd mental challenge: you lose when you think about it. The catch? It's impossible not to. That moment of realization is the point — and you have to proclaim it, too.
Legend says it may have begun with a Cambridge University society poking fun at game logic — or with the "white bear" paradox seen in older psychology tales. Either way, the simplicity and absurdity of the rules made it an enduring meme — and now a crafty classic.
Here's a short video that explains it beautifully if you want a quick refresher (or to drag someone else into losing with you!):
Why I Stitched It
I love designing pieces that bring together two worlds: the cosy tradition of cross-stitch and the silliness of internet culture. To me, this pattern is a perfect example. It's a reminder that stitching doesn't always have to be serious or sentimental — it can be playful, too.
Hanging this piece on the wall is like a little trap: every time someone sees it, they lose The Game. And honestly? That's what makes it so much fun.
So if you want a project that sparks laughter (and maybe a few groans), "The Game" is the perfect stitch to add to your collection. After all, by reading this blog post… you just lost The Game. 😈
