Madeline on Stitched US
Hi Bethany! This is a cool concept. I think you may have merged Michigan's upper peninsula with Wisconsin, and also Maine with New Hampshire. I'm not sure how it would look, but did you try making the outer border only in single stitch (or even half or quarter stitch) increments (like you did with the state borders) to emphasize the cross-stitched-ness?
monica on Gypsophila
I love this Laura. I see why you are struggling because both are gorgeous! This one feels fun and a bit more unusual maybe but v1 (white on color) is to die for... feels more romantic. I think I prefer v1. I think the type is perfect but could use just a little room between the lines. :)
Ashley on Palm Springs Mod
The flow feels better on the vertical one but I think the horizontal layout suits this concept better, if that makes sense? I think the yellow frame could use some darkening so the text is more legible and make sure you have the 0.1 pt stroke on the j & g for maximum legibility!