How to Stitch a Four-Sided Cross Stitch

The Four-Sided Cross Stitch is a cross stitch variation that simply outlines the squares on your Aida fabric. This is a very versatile stitch and can be used in samplers, borders or anywhere where you would like to replace the normal cross stitch. The steps below will walk you through completing a four-sided cross stitch.

Things You'll Need

• Embroidery floss
• Tapestry needle
• Aida fabric
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Prepare to begin stitching by threading your tapestry needle with your choice of color in embroidery floss and securing the working thread with a small knot, so your first stitch will be secured.

2. Bring the threaded needle up through the lower right corner of the square where you want to start stitching your four-sided cross stitches.

3. Insert the threaded needle back into upper right corner of the Aida fabric to form your first straight stitch.

4. Complete another straight stitch by coming up with the threaded needle in the lower left corner and inserting it back into the lower right corner.

5. Form a third straight stitch by bringing the threaded needle up through the upper left corner of the square and back down into the upper right corner.

6. Stitch your final straight stitch that will complete your first four-sided cross stitch by bringing the threaded needle up through the lower left corner and then into the lower right corner.

7. Continue stitching your row of four-sided cross stitches, stitching only one half stitch where two of the cross stitches meet and secure the thread with a knot when you are finished, snipping the extra embroidery floss.