How to Choose a Cross-Stitch Project

Cross-stitch is one of the oldest, yet simplest, forms of needlework. A charted design is transferred to even-weave fabric by placing X-shaped stitches onto indicated areas of the fabric. Cross-stitch kits and materials are readily available in a variety of designs, color schemes and levels of complexity.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cross-stitch Charts
• Cross-stitch Fabrics
• Cross-stitch Kits
• Embroidery Floss
• Embroidery Hoops
• Tapestry Needles
• Thimbles
• Scissors
• Scissors

1. Become acquainted with the cross-stitch kits, materials and resources available to you by visiting craft stores and exploring related Internet sites.

2. Consider your project goal when choosing a cross-stitch project. Are you making a gift? Do you want your project to match a certain color scheme or theme? Just want to try a new craft?

3. Consider the amount of time you're willing to invest in a project. Large, complex pieces are lovely and enticing but often take more time to complete than you may realize.

4. Choose a cross-stitch kit for convenience. All necessary materials, excluding embroidery hoop and scissors, are included in a kit. Some kits even come with a frame for your finished piece.

5. Choose to work your cross-stitch project from a purchased chart to allow for more flexibility and creativity. The chart's suggested thread colors and fabric types can be modified to adapt to any color scheme you have in mind.

Tips & Warnings

• If this is your first cross-stitch project, choose a small, simple piece. Move on to larger, more complex kits and projects once you've decided to further explore this style of needlework.
• Kits come with either a charted design and blank cross-stitch fabric or with the design stamped on the cross-stitch fabric. If you're a beginner, you may want to consider starting with the latter.
• One drawback of having the cross-stitch design stamped on the fabric is that the printed design may show even after you've stitched over it.
• Cross-stitch graphs can be found in fabric stores, craft stores and on related Internet sites.

[bcollier]

on 11/7/2008 Thank you for this very helpful information. I have some cross stitching projects that I have been wanting to start on but have been to scared to try.

[bubbles87]

on 4/1/2008 Beginners could look for also look for simple patterns on free websites. These patterns will allow for color changes and can offer really good practice before getting into the more complicated projects.

on 11/22/2005 It shouldn't have too many colors. The colors should be in blocks/sections rather than all inter-mixed. The more white space/unstitched squares, the fewer the stitches needed to complete the picture. Make sure there are no half or quarter stitches. While back stitching adds to the project, it can help to mask errors and uneven stitches.