Types of Cross-Stitch Material
Counted cross-stitch is an enjoyable needlepoint craft. The needlework is all done in simple tiny crosses or X-shapes which combine to create a picture. Counted cross-stitch is used for wall hangings, clothing embellishment, greeting cards, Christmas ornaments and stuffed pillows or toys. A variety of cross-stitch kits are available for purchase and are usually found at crafts stores. Alternatively, buy pieces of cloth to make your cross-stitch projects with.
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Aida Cloth
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Cross-stitch on Aida cloth The most common material used for counted cross-stitch is Aida cotton or linen cloth. The weave in the cloth is made to allow the needlepoint to be done by inserting the needle into spaces that show up in the pattern. Aida cloth has thread counts per inch. The eight-count Aida cloth has room for eight stitches per inch of material. Six-count Aida is good for a beginner who is just learning how to cross-stitch. Aida cloth is sold in rectangular pieces in packages or by the yard on the bolt.
Linen
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A needlepoint artist with experience may choose to use linen for cross-stitch projects. A linen foundation will give you a thread count from 10 to 40. The advanced cross-stitch artist will be able to make the X-stitches without the aid of the tiny holes in the cloth weave, such as Aida has. Linen comes in dozens of colors, allowing you to choose a background effect with the dyed cloth. There are many different types of linen, including Irish linen, to choose from.
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Waste Canvas
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It also possible to cross-stitch designs onto clothing using waste canvas. The canvas is made up of a type of starch with threads woven through it. Cut out and baste an appropriately sized piece of waste canvas to the shirt, dress, jacket or jeans that you plan to cross-stitch on. Cross-stitch the design onto the waste canvas and directly through into the garment. When the design is completely stitched into the garment, wet the waste canvas thoroughly. Gently pull the canvas fibers out, thread by thread, with tweezers.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit embroidery 3 image by Kostyantyn Ivanyshen from Fotolia.com needlework image by 26kot from Fotolia.com
