For those wishing to learn how to cross stitch, it is advised that beginners begin with only basic projects, and they do not need to be finished necessarily; they are merely test projects, if you will. Make sure to have all of your supplies at hand: fabric, needle, floss, hoop, scissors, a good light source and a soft chair or comfortable work environment.
Remember that once the stitch is learned, you can tackle sought after projects with far less frustration and a better outcome. It is normal to take up cross stitching to create an item that you absolutely must have, but it is crucial that you are patient and begin with something simple before getting in over your head. Think of it as dating before becoming serious with someone when it comes to relationships; you want to make sure that the relationship will work before you commit. However, this hobby can be very, very entertaining and addicting!

If you search on the internet you can easily find many free stitching charts to help guide you. It would also be wise to begin with “whole stitches” while beginning to simplify cross stitching until it becomes less awkward for you.

To perform a basic cross stitch, one must follow these directions:

1. Thread the needle with the indicated number of floss strands and color. Note that the threading will be easier if the strand ends are delicately twisted together.
2. Pull 3 to 4 inches of the floss through the eye of the needle. Make sure this remains the same length throughout your project.
3. Place the needle at the back of the fabric and push the needle all the way through until the starting point is reached. Leave only 1 inch of floss at the back of your work.
4. Hold the thread at the back of the fabric and weave your first few stitches over it until it is secured.
5. Perform a half cross-stitch by pushing the needle through one hole in the fabric and then through the hole that sets diagonal and to the right of the first.
6. Create a cross-stitch by creating a half cross-stitch, and then another in the opposite direction. The second cross-stitch will overlap the first; creating an “X” shape.
7. Create a backstitch by pushing the needle upwards through one hole, and then going backwards over the pre-determined number of threads. Second, push the needle down through the proper hole, and finally, bring the needle upwards the same number of threads ahead of your starting point.

A few tips and precautions for the beginning cross-stitcher should be followed before beginning:

• The kind of stitch and color are to be used as the pattern says. Each square equals one stitch.
• Six strands make up each length of floss. You must separate these strands by holding a length of floss between two fingers and pulling one strand out at a time to avoid the floss from tangling.
• Keep your stitches even and light handed. This will prevent the thread from breaking and fabric from furrowing.

Tags: Cross Stitch Articles // Add Comment »