These days, everyone can do with a hobby that gives them a creative distraction for a couple of hours a day. Cross stitch, while typically seen as an activity for homebodies, is a worthwhile activity for anyone. Considered one of the easiest forms of hand embroidery, it’s a fun activity to stretch your creative muscles.
What is Cross Stitch?
Cross stitch is a form of hand embroidery that uses carefully counted threads to create simple to elaborate images on fabric. It got its name from the X-shaped stitches sewn onto a special type of fabric that has a tiled, raster-like pattern, usually Aida cloth, evenweave, or linen. Experienced embroiderers develop the skills necessary to use different types of fabric for their cross-stitch projects.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Cross Stitch
Cross stitch is a highly accessible type of embroidery. Cross stitch sets are readily available in specialty shops. Stich4Art carries a wide selection of cross stitch products, including comprehensive kits that come complete with fabric, needles, threads, and a design guide. Once you’ve chosen the kit you want, you may start your cross stitch project.
Step 1: Understanding the Cross Stitch Chart
A cross stitch chart is your guide to accomplishing your desired design onto fabric. It uses different colors and symbols to indicate where you should sew. Each grid on the chart corresponds to a grid on the fabric. Before starting with your project, study the chart and make the necessary annotations. By following the designated color and number of stitches, you can easily recreate your chosen design onto the fabric. It will also help you avoid mistakes that can take time and more materials to remedy.
Step 2: Preparing Your Fabric for Stitching
The fabrics typically used in cross stitch are Aida and linen. Beginners are advised to use Aida because of the obvious grid-like pattern.
- Bind the edges. Both Aida and linen are known to fray at the edges. Before starting, you have to bind your chosen fabric to keep it from unraveling. Sew a zigzag stitch or fold masking tape over the edges to bind them.
- Find the center. Once you’ve bound the edges, you have to find the center. Fold the fabric in half and do the same in the other way. Open the fabric and place a pin at the center point made by the folds. (fig 1)
- Use an embroidery loop. Although this tool isn’t necessary, most beginners find it easier to carry out their cross stitch projects with an embroidery loop. To use one, simply place the fabric over the inner hoop. Then, fit the outer hoop to secure the fabric in place. Before fitting the hoops together, make sure to pull the fabric taut, then lock the hoops in place.
Step 3: Preparing Your Thread for Stitching
Most cross stitch design guides call for one to two strands of thread at a time. Additionally, experts advise using 18 inches of embroidery floss to prevent it from knotting in different places.
- Separate the thread. Once you’ve cut your floss, separate it to two strands at a time. Do this gently and slowly to prevent the strands from knotting with each other.
- Thread the needle. Cross stitch uses a round-end tapestry needle to protect the embroiderer’s fingers. Thread this needle the same way you would with a regular needle. But make sure not to knot the end as it will lead to lumps in the finished piece.
Step 4: Making Your Cross Stitches
As mentioned, a cross-stitch is visually known for its X-shaped stitches. Make sure your stitching is clean to avoid mistakes, like knotting and lumps, in the finished piece.
- Start with a row. After checking your stitching chart, pass end of the thread through the netting of the fabric (fig.2) and bring your needle up through the starting hole from the backside of the fabric. Then, pass your needle to the hole diagonal from where it entered. Leave an inch of the tail for closing and securing later. Next, pass the needle through the hole directly below the last to make your second half-cross. Before pulling the floss taut, make sure the tail is trapped in the stitch. Continue this until half your floss is gone. (fig.3)
- Make cross stitches. Once you’ve completed a row of half-cross stitches, you will repeat the process but in the opposite direction. This will create the individual cross stitches that will make up the finished piece. (fig.3)
Step 5: Closing Your Thread
When you have a half-inch of floss left on your needle, flip the fabric over. Pass the needle under two to three completed stitches to secure it. Make sure to pull the thread taut to keep it from loosening and unraveling. Once done, carefully trim off the remaining thread. (fig.8)
Tips and Tricks for Cross Stitch Beginners
Once you’ve started on your project, you will quickly realize how easy it is to cross-stitch. Use the tips below to improve your technique and to make the process more enjoyable.
- Make sure not to overdo it when pulling your fabric and floss taut. When either of these is too tight, it will warp and affect the quality of the finished piece.
- Use new floss when moving to a new area, especially when it’s far from where you last ended. Long jumps at the back of your fabric will likely show in the front.
- Let your needle and thread unwind by hanging it freely from the fabric. Use this time to review your chart and count your stitches.
- Clean your finished piece with clear shampoo. Take it out of the frame and gently wash it before hanging to dry. Iron the piece before framing it to get rid of creases.
- Practice your craft with free guides online. Just download a pattern and use spare thread and fabric to recreate the image.
Cross stitch is a fun hobby that allows you to explore your creative side. Stitch4Art is your source of high-quality cross-stitch kits that vary from beginner to expert. Browse our shop for a kit you like or talk to our team for any questions about our products.