Cross stitch is one of the oldest needlework stitches and has been used constantly since prehistoric times. You’ll find working cross stitch to be an easy and rewarding for of needlework. These tips are designed to help beginners get started with cross stitch.
The Stitch
Cross stitches consist of two separate diagonal stitches which go over one block of the even weave fabric. One stitch slants in one direction, like this /, while the second stitch slants in the opposite direction, like this \. They meet and form an “x” over the block of the fabric.
The most important thing to remember about doing cross stitch is to be consistent. It doesn’t matter which way is on top, just pick one and stick with it. Always have all the stitches on top slanting in the same direction. Although it may not look as if this important, it is. Floss has what is called a “directional light” so that the color looks different if the stitch slants differently. Having random stitches going the “wrong” direction will show up.
Rarely is cross stitch done with a complete six-ply strand of floss, usually it uses two or three strands. Therefore, you must take out those strands from the full strand of floss. Do this by pulling individual strands straight out from the bundle. Don’t pull at an angle and don’t pull more than one ply (strand) at a time — this will cause knots.
You can form your stitches one of two ways. You can make each stitch completely (both slants). This must be done when you are using multicolored, overdyed or variegated threads. Or you can make a row of stitches slanting in one of the directions and then go back and cross them all — it’s up to you!
Reading a Chart
Cross stitch charts are done on gridded paper (graph paper) and consist of symbols, sometimes in several colors, in the squares. You will also have a key which will tell you what color and/or thread goes with which symbol. Some charts don’t use symbols but use colors to indicate the different colors of thread. Some use both.
Symbols fill up the entire space. Sometimes you will find
symbols covering only part of the square; these indicate half, quarter or three quarter stitches. You may also find straight or diagonal lines on your chart. These indicate backstitches (see below) which help define the stitching.
Often you will also find arrows indicating the vertical and horizontal center of the chart. These are to help you find the center of the design, which you should have in the center of your fabric. Most cross stitchers begin their projects in the center,
although that is not necessary.
Beginning and Ending Threads
I like to begin my threads with what is called a waste knot.
This is a knot which is on the FRONT of the fabric, an inch ort so
away from where you will begin stitching, in a direction so that your stitching will immediately begin to cover the tail. When you get close to the knot, pull it up and snip it off.
After you have areas of stitching done, you might want to begin and end your threads by running them through the backs of some stitches. This is an excellent way to begin and end threads, but don’t run your threads through the backs of stitches which are lighter than your working thread — they will show up as shadows on the front of your stitching.
Backstitching
Often on cross stitch charts you will see lines outlining
areas or added details, these are done in backstitch and add detail
and definition to your cross stitch. Backstitch is important in
cross stitch for several reasons. First, because the stitches almost “melt” into the fabric, backstitches give them harder edges. Second, they can smooth out the boxy look of curves and angled lines. Third, they can add much finer accents and details to your work.
Backstitches usually go over a single square of the fabric (but they can be longer or shorter). You form a backstitch by going backwards from the direction you are stitching. In other words, if you are stitching a line going to the right, you will bring the needle out of the fabric at the right end of the stitch and bring the needle into the fabric at the left end, for example 2_1 4_3 6_5 where the numbers are your thread entering and exiting the fabric and the “_” are the stitches themselves. The needle comes out of the fabric at the odd numbers and into the fabric at the even numbers.
Using a Hoop
Many stitchers prefer to work having the fabric taut inside an embroidery hoop. This helps keep an even tension on your work and can make it easier to stitch.
You do not have to use a hoop for your cross stitch. And any kind of embroidery hoop will work.
One tip for making your work look lovely, loosen the hoop and the fabric whenever you leave your work for a bit. This will keep the edges of the fabric in the hoop from getting dirty, you can’t remove those spots.
Blocking and Finishing
Cross stitch isn’t usually very distorted, so it doesn’t
require much blocking, just ironing.
Begin by laying a thick towel on top of your ironing board (I usually use two-four layers of towel). Have a pressing cloth nearby and set your iron for dry heat.
Dampen your needlework thoroughly and put it FACE DOWN on the towel. Having the towel there will make the stitches stand up nicely instead of flattening them.
Put the pressing cloth on top of the wet needlework and press it mostly dry. Don’t move your iron around much, put it up and set it down in a different place, this also help keep the stitches nice.
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