How to Work a Cross-Stitch Project

Doing cross-stitch is easy, fun and relaxing. Keep these instructions in mind when you work a cross-stitch project.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cross-stitch Charts
• Cross-stitch Fabrics
• Cross-stitch Kits
• Cross-stitch Patterns
• Embroidery Floss
• Embroidery Hoops
• Sewing Baskets
• Tapestry Needles
• Scissors
• Scissors
• Highlighter Pens

1. Find the center of the cross-stitch chart and count the number of squares to the desired starting point.

2. Find the center of your cross-stitch fabric and count the same number of squares in the same direction.

3. Begin stitching at this point.

4. Secure the fabric in an embroidery hoop or frame.

5. Relax your arms and shoulders and sit in a comfortable, well-lighted area.

6. Begin your project by threading the needle and bringing it up through the starting point.

7. Secure the embroidery floss by holding the last inch or so behind the fabric and then working your first few stitches over it.

8. Work cross-stitches first.

9. Stitch one X at a time or work a horizontal row of half cross-stitches, then complete the other half of each X by making an equal number of half-stitches in the reverse direction.

10. Move from one area to another either by ending the floss strand or by carrying the strand behind the fabric to a new area.

11. End the floss strand if you're moving to an area more than 1 inch away. Dark colors that are carried over may show on the front.

12. End a floss strand by weaving it through a few stitches on the back of the work. Trim the excess with scissors.

13. Unwind taut, twisted floss strands by allowing the threaded needle to drop away from the fabric. Do this as often as needed.

14. Remove incorrect stitches by gently pulling them out with a needle. Do not cut them.

Tips & Warnings

• Follow the arrows printed on the chart to find the center of your design.
• Each square on the cross-stitch chart directly corresponds to a stitch location or intersection of threads on the cross-stitch fabric. Each square will also indicate which floss color to use. Keep track of stitched areas on your chart by highlighting them with a marker as they are completed.
• If you are stitching vertically, stitch one X at a time.
• Remove fabric from the embroidery hoop whenever you are not stitching. This step will help prevent distortion and staining of the fabric.
• Keep your hands clean when stitching to keep your work from being soiled.

[Susancnw]

on 3/26/2008 Save those little scraps of thread (OORTS) and put them in a clear Christmas ornament. Very unique.

on 11/22/2005 I use self-adhesive velcro(only remove one side) on the inside lid of my floss box to hold my needle. Just slide through velcro, it holds it flat so you can have several needles threaded ahead. This is ecspecially handy when using 2 colors at once.

on 11/22/2005 I use the loop method when beginning to stitch. I double my thread and insert the ends into my needle, pull the needle through the material, and catch the loop and tighten. You don't have so many loose threads in the back to get weave in later.

on 11/22/2005 To help keep small pieces of thread I have cut when I complete an area, I have a zip-lock bag next to me. I throw the scraps in the bag to help keep my area clean since I am usually working in my living room.

on 11/22/2005 After locating the object you wish to start on, count the correct number of squares to the left to begin at the very left edge of the project, working to the right then back. Working from left to right, use half stitches, then come back and "cross."