You are here: Home / Archives for Cross Stitch Patterns

Learning How To Cross Stitch

February 4, 2012 By

Cross stitch is not new. In fact its been around for hundreds of years in one form or another. Today there is a wonderful variety of both modern and traditional cross stitch designs available for stitchers.

If you want to learn how to cross stitch and play a part in this tradition we invite you to take a look through our tutorial for beginners, and try it for yourself.

Some Cross Stitch Guidelines
Cross stitch is fun, and the range of kits available is now huge. It is best to follow the instructions in the kit, as the desiger will know best how to work it, to do justice to his or her original concept.

It is helpful however to have some general guidelines on the basics, and that is what we are hoping to provide for you here.

With stamped cross stitch the design is printed on the fabric for you to follow. However the vast majority of cross stitch is counted cross stitch. Here the fabric is blank, and you work the design by following a chart which shows you where to put the stitches.

The chart is normally divided up into a grid of squares. Each colour is represented by a symbol, and there is a colour key which shows you which symbol represents each colour.

Let us assume that the symbol for black is x and the symbol for green is o. If you see a line of 7 squares on the chart containing the symbols xxxxooo, you should make 4 stitches in black and 3 stitches in green.

To Start
It is best to centre the cross stitch design by starting in the middle so that your stitching fits onto the piece of fabric without going off to one side. An easy way to do this is to lightly fold the fabric in four to find the centre point.

This point should coincide with the centre of the chart, which is normally marked with arrows at the top, bottom and sides. The centre of the design is normally the best place to start stitching.

Most stranded cotton threads (floss) are made up of six strands. Seperate these out into the correct number of strands (as indicated on the chart instructions) for stitching. The colour key shows which shade of cotton to use for each symbol on the chart.

Start Stitching
To begin the cross stitch, thread your needle and bring it up through the fabric, leaving a short end of cotton at the back, and work over this with your first few stitches to secure it.

 
When there are enough stitches in place you can start off a new colour by first running it through the back of the existing stitches. To finish a colour, run your cotton under several stitches at the back to secure it.

Working a single cross stitch
The fabric shown in the diagram on the left is aida, and it is very popular for cross stitch. This is a block weave fabric, with a hole at the corners of each block, which is nice and easy to work.

Imagine that each block is represented by one square on the chart. To make one cross stitch: bring the needle up through hole 1, down through hole 2, then up through hole 3, and finally down through hole 4.

Working a row of cross stitch
To make a row of cross stitches: work across the fabric in the order shown on the top part of the diagram on the right, and then back to complete the crosses as shown on the bottom part. Always cross over in the same direction. It is quicker to work cross stitches in rows wherever possible.

Try not to join up separate areas of the same colour with long runs of thread at the back of the work. This is not only untidy and may show through the fabric at the front, but will probably mean you will run out of the thread supplied in the cross stitch kit.

It is better to cut and fasten off your thread at the back of the needle work as normal, and start again at the new area of the design.

Working a Row of Half Cross Stitch
Many projects now have areas worked in half cross stitch, for example to give a soft focus background. This stitch is literally half of a cross stitch (up through 1 and down through 2 etc.), as shown on the left.

Work a row of Back Stitch
To make a row of back stitches: bring the needle up at 1, down at 2, up at 3, and down at 4, and so on, as shown on the diagram on the left. Notice that 1 and 4 use the same hole.

Back stitch is used to great effect on many designs to delineate and bring out areas of stitching, adding drama and sharpness to the needle work. It is basically a row of stithes, maked on the chart by a row of lines. The back stitch is not normally worked until the cross stitch has been completed.

Back stitch is often worked with just a single strand of thread.

Working Part Stitches
It is sometimes necessary to have more than one colour on a single block of fabric. Imagine a cross stitch design with a dark grey sloping roof and a blue sky above it. If the roof slopes from the right up to the left the designer will often make a part stitch of blue in the top right of the fabric block and a grey part stitch in the bottom left of the same block.

Where two colours share one square on the chart, work a 3/4 stitch in the more prominent shade, and complete the block with a 1/4 stitch of the other shade, as shown in the diagram on the left. Make your own hole with the needle in the centre of the block.

The combination of 1/4 stitch and 3/4 stitch often looks better than two 3/4 stitches, where you end up with a bulky four strands across the middle of a block of fabric.

Evenweave Fabrics for Cross Stitch
Finer evenweave fabrics made up of threads instead of blocks, are often used in cross stitch kits. Normally these are worked over two threads, so when you are following the chart you would miss one hole and go into the next.

So for example if you wanted to work a 14 count (14 holes per inch) project on finer fabric, you could work it on 28 count (28 holes per inch) fabric, over two threads. The cross stitches would be exactly the same size, and therefore the complete design would be the same size.

This also has the advantage that part stitches are easier to do, as a hole already exists in the middle of each square.

The same applies in reverse. Say for example you have a design to be worked on 32 count evenweave fabric, but have difficulty seeing the holes on this finer fabric. Many stitchers use 16 count fabric instead, going into every hole instead of across two holes, and in this way the design will be the same size.

As you learn cross stitch and your confidence grows, you will feel more comfortable working with these finer fabrics.

Cross Stitch Needles and Threads
Good quality colour-fast stranded cottons such as Anchor or DMC are a great advantage. Most stitchers cut their threads into approximately 18 (1/2 metre) lengths, unless they are already supplied in pre-cut lengths.

This is a convenient amount of thread on the needle and avoids tangling and other problems.

Different cross stitch effects can be obtained by using different numbers of strands. However, on many projects you will find 3 or 4 strands used or 11 count fabric, 2 or 3 strands on 14 count, and 2 strands on 16 and 18 count fabrics to give a good coverage.

Tapestry needles are ideal for cross stitch. This is because they have a rounded point which goes easily through the holes without splitting the fabric. Use size 22 for 11-count fabric, size 24 for 14-count fabric, size 26 for 16-count and 18-count fabric, and size 28 for finer fabrics.

When you have finished, be sure to trim any long loose ends carefully, so that they do not show through the fabric when your picture is framed.

Hoops and Frames
Most people use an embroidery hoop or small tapestry frame to hold their cross stitch fabric. This keeps the fabric taut and makes the project easier to handle while being worked. Also the hoop or frame can be held in a stand, which leaves both your hands free.

This will allow you to work with one hand under the fabric and one over, which is generally more efficient, and saves the strain of having to hold the work while stitching it.

There are several advantages of a frame for cross stitch, as against an embroidery hoop. The top of the needle work is attached to the top bar, and the bottom to the bottom bar.

This makes it easy with larger projects, to roll up the next section for stitching, rather than having to remove the fabric from the hoop to reposition it. It also avoids the circular marks on the finished cross stitch project, which often result from handling the hoop.

Filed Under: Cross Stitch, Cross Stitch Articles, Cross Stitch Patterns Tagged With: , ,

Learn To Cross Stitch Guide

February 3, 2012 By

Most people find cross stitching straight forward to do, but you do generally need a few tips to help you get started with the right techniques. Here is an explanation of the main terms and cross stitch techniques.

To understand more about cross stitching and what kind of projects and options are available, below we review all the basics on Cross Stitching.

Cross stitch kits

A kit is a pack that contains all the material you need to make the illustrated design. It usually contains Aida or Evenweave fabric, stranded cotton thread in all the required colours, a needle and a cross stitch pattern or chart with instructions on how to complete the design.

Cross stitch chart (or pattern)

A chart is a diagrammatic description of how to complete your design. Codes (such as #, +,

Each square on the chart represents a square on the fabric. Charts are often sold on their own without cross stitch materials, this allows you to use thread and fabric that you may already have or to purchase these individually. Each chart has a clear list of the stranded cotton required to complete the design.

Aida fabric

The threads in Aida fabric are woven in a precise square-pattern which makes it easy to guide the needle in and out of the fabric, to obtain even stitches and to count squares. You usually stitch over 1 square. 11-count Aida means that there are 11 squares in each inch of fabric and 18-count Aida means that there are 18 squares in each inch and so on.

The count of the fabric will therefore determine the finished size of the design. The higher the count, the smaller the cross stitches and it is easier to cross stitch in lower count fabric, that is, 11-count is easier than 18-count. The most popular Aida fabrics to use are 14 and 16 count.

Evenweave fabric

Evenweave is any cotton, blended cotton/synthetic, linen or synthetic fabric woven so there is a hole for stitching between each single thread. On Aida, we tend to stitch over 1, however, on Evenweave, we usually stitch over 2 threads. Evenweave comes in a variety of threads counts, most common are 24, 28 and 32.

Stranded Cotton

Sometimes called floss, this thread is comprised of 6 easily separable strands so that you can vary your stitching results depending on the number of strands used. It is ideal for cross stitches, long stitches, short stitches and satin stitches.

Most cross stitching is done with 2 strands and the pattern always clearly states whether any stitches are to be completed with 1 or more than 2 strands.

Threads are colourfast; however, washing should only be undertaken if absolutely necessary. If you need to wash your work, do so gently using lukewarm water and a non-biological detergent. Rinse well and place face downwards on a thick lightly coloured towel and press with a warm iron.

Thread card or organiser

Many cross stitch kits already include a thread card with the stranded cotton pre-sorted onto the card. Where this has not been done, it is necessary for you to place your threads through the holes on the thread card and label them so that they will be easy to access when stitching your design.

Needle

A tapestry needle is used for cross stitching which has a blunt point and a large eye. A size 24 needle is used with 14 count Aida.

Embroidery hoop or frame

Frames can be helpful to hold your fabric while you stitch. Some people prefer to stitch holding their fabric in their hands and if their tension is good, this technique will work well.

 
Others may find that the holes are opening up or the fabric is puckering, this is when a frame of hoop should be used, if a hoop is used you will be pulling your needle straight up from the back and pushing it straight down toward the back which will require that you move one hand from the front to the back to pull the needle through and vice versa.

If you have a stand, you can stitch with one hand on top of the fabric and one underneath so that you dont have to move one hand from front to back over and over.

Starting your design

It is important to read through all the instructions before beginning with your design. It is a good idea to sew over the edges of the fabric by hand or with a zigzag stitch on a sewing machine to prevent fraying although this is not absolutely necessary. Pinking scissors can be used to create a non-fraying zigzag edge.

Iron your fabric if there are creases. Find the centre of the fabric by folding it in half vertically and again horizontally. It is a good idea to start from the centre of the design if this is convenient, although this is not essential.

Its a good idea to highlight your chart (yellow works very well) to mark off stitches or areas of stitching as you complete them. This allows you to clearly see which parts of your chart are complete.

Stitches

Cross stitch

Directions: A whole cross stitch is worked by stitching a line of half crosses first and then going back along the same line adding the top stitches. Bring your needle through at the bottom left corner of the square and insert diagonally at the top right.

Another method is to complete each stitch as you go; this is good for working vertical rows of cross stitches. It is very important to always work the lower left to upper right stitch first so that all the top threads have the same direction slant. This ensures an even consistency in your finished design.

Quarter cross stitch

Directions: Quarter stitches take up a quarter of the area of a whole cross stitch. You will have to split the centre threads on your Aida fabric with your needle.

French knots

Directions: Bring needle through where the knot is required; wind the thread round the needle twice. Twist the needle back into the fabric, very close to where you bought it through, but not in exactly the same place, and pull the needle through while keeping the thread taught.

Back stitch

Back stitching is a running stitch used to outline an area of the design to add definition or to create lettering. It should be worked after the design has been completed. 1 strand of thread is usually used for back stitching.

Directions: Bring needle through at (1), insert at (2). Bring needle through at (3) in front for the next stitch. The following stitch will begin at (1) and end in front of (3).

This diagram shows (1) the first line of diagonal stitches and then (2) the second line cross stitching back over the first.

This diagram shows (1) bringing the needle up through the fabric, (2) second placement of needle, (3) in front to end the stitch.

Cross Stitch Top Tips

Always work with clean hands.

Do not carry the thread across spaces where there are no cross stitches as this will show up when the design is complete. You should end off and start again instead.

Allow the threaded needle to dangle upside down from time to time to remove any twists in the thread.

Dont use a knot; instead bring the threaded needle through the back of the fabric leaving approximately 2cm to be secured by the next few stitches. To finish, run the needle through about 5 stitches on the back of the fabric.

Remove the needle from your sewing when you are not working or it will leave a mark. Alternatively, attach it to the extreme outer edge of the fabric.

Filed Under: Cross Stitch, Cross Stitch Articles, Cross Stitch Patterns Tagged With: , , ,

Learn How to Cross Stitch

January 31, 2012 By

Counted cross stitch transfers a design from a printed graph onto evenweave fabric. The stitcher uses embroidery floss to place Xs on the fabric corresponding to symbols on the chart.

Each symbol on the chart represents one X on the fabric. The different styles of symbols on the chart represent different colors of floss.Cross stitch is easy to learn and requires only a few supplies.

Graph. This is the pattern or design you chose to stitch. There are thousands to choose from.

Evenweave fabric. The fabric for cross stitch is woven in an even manner so that you know exactly where to place your needle. To keep the fabric from raveling either sew the edges on a sewing machine or use Fray Stop to prevent fraying.

Needle. A tapestry needle is used, usually a size 24 or 26 (size 26 is smaller than size 24). This type of needle has a blunt point and a large eye. Use a size 24 for stitching on 14 count fabric; use a size 26 for fabric with a stitch count greater than 14.

Floss. Embroidery floss is a cotton thread used for stitching. Floss has 6 strands, but usually you will use only 2 strands at a time for stitching and 1 strand for backstitching.

On Hardanger fabric (22 count) you usually will use only 1 strand; on 11 count Aida use 3 strands to stitch and 2 to backstitch. Most books and graphs suggest either DMC or Anchor brands.

Embroidery hoop. A plastic embroidery hoop is helpful to hold the fabric while you stitch. Remove the fabric from the hoop when you are not stitching to keep from getting hoop marks.

Scissors. You can start out with any pair of scissors, but pretty soon you will want to get a nice pair of small embroidery scissors. Get a good quality pair with sharp points. A good pair of scissors makes stitching a lot more fun.

Choosing Your Fabric
There are dozens of fabrics to choose from. They will all work, so you just have to decide on what you like. White or ivory Aida 14 is the most common and 14 count is an easy fabric to start on.

The number of stitches per inch will determine the finished size of the design. A design that is 28 stitches wide stitched on Aida 14 (14 stitches per inch fabric) will be 2 wide.

The same design will be 2 1/2 wide on Aida 11, and 1 1/4 stitched on hardanger (22 stitches per inch). Thankfully, most designs show design sizes for different counts of fabrics. Be sure to allow extra fabric for finishing (at least 4 extra on length and width).

To Begin
Find the center of the graph. For most patterns this is shown with arrows or a bold line. Next, find the center of your fabric. An easy way to do this is to fold the fabric in half vertically and pinch with your finger to make a small crease. Open the fabric, fold in half horizontally and make another pinch.

Open the fabric up. The two creases will mark the center of the fabric. Most stitchers like to start stitching close to the center of the design. For the I Like You graph, start with the pink balloon.

Knots on the back will show through, so do not use any knots to start or end. To begin stitching, bring the threaded needle up from the back of the fabric leaving about a 1 tail of thread behind the fabric. Stitch the next 5 or 6 stitches over the tail. Clip off extra thread. To end off, weave your needle back through the last 5 or 6 stitches and clip the thread short so as not to leave a loose tail.

Stitching
There are two methods. The first method is to work a row of half stitches (////), then work back (\\) to complete the Xs. Use this method for most stitching. The second method is to complete each X as you go. Use this method for vertical rows of stitches.

It is important that all the Xs are crossed in the same direction. That is, the top thread of the X should always slant in the same direction (either or /). It does not matter which way they slant, but if they are mixed the finished piece will look uneven.

Relax as you stitch. Your stitches should lay flat on your fabric and not distort the holes or the fabric.

Backstitching
Backstitching is a running stitch (not an X) used to outline an area or to form lettering. In the graph, the words I Like You and the strings on the balloons are done in backstitch. Normally you use one less strand of floss for backstitching than you use for cross stitching.

Carrying Your Thread
Sometimes a color will have only a few stitches and then jump to another area. Most of the time you should end off and start again, other times you can carry the thread along the back. Just jumping from area to area is easier than starting and stopping, but sometimes the thread will show through.

This can be a problem if you jump a dark thread over an unstitched area of light fabric. In general, you can carry the thread to another area if the jump is short, the floss color is light, and you are jumping over a previously stitched area.

In the I Like You graph, the white highlights on the three balloons can be done by starting at the top balloon, jumping to the middle balloon, and then jumping to the bottom balloon.

Finishing
When your stitching is complete, wash in cool water using a mild liquid detergent. Rinse well. Do not wring, but roll in a clean towel to absorb most of the water. While still damp, place face down on a terry towel. Place another cloth on top of the needlework and press lightly with a warm iron. Let dry.

Then frame or finish as desired. The I Like You design will fit nicely in a flat round, scalloped, or octagonal glass paperweight.

Filed Under: Crochet, Cross Stitch, Cross Stitch Articles, Cross Stitch Kits, Cross Stitch Patterns, Knitting Tagged With: , ,

Kinds of Cross Stitch Patterns

January 30, 2012 By

Kinds of Cross Stitch Patterns

Most cross-stitch is performed on Aida fabric, which is a specially woven fabric that allows you to see a grid pattern in the fabric. Each stitch makes up an x that is sewn from one corner to the other.

Cross-stitch patterns are designed to follow that pattern. In some cases the pattern is printed on the fabric itself, while other patterns are printed on paper. Still other patterns use a combination of both.

The patterns you buy in books are called counted cross-stitch, because you have to count the number of stitches used to follow the pattern. We are going to look more closely at this type of pattern, because it is the most commonly used.

Its a Grid
Counted cross-stitch patterns are easy to follow if you can read and count. Patterns are drawn on what looks like a large piece of graph paper. Each square represents one stitch. While there are a lot of tiny squares, there are darker lines that mark off 10 x 10 sections of the pattern.

These darker lines enable you to follow your pattern a little easier. Some cross-stitchers will mark these lines on their fabric so that they can follow the pattern more easily. If you choose to mark your fabric, make sure you use a water-soluble marking pen.

In the center of your pattern you will see some arrows. These point to the center of the design. Knowing where the center of your design is allows you to have proper placement of it on your project.

For instance, if you are cross-stitching a pillowcase, you will need to be able to center your design so that it fits properly on your pillowcase. You can count from the center of the design to your starting point on the fabric.

Reading the Key
While the grid makes it easy to count stitches and follow the pattern, you will notice that there are a lot of letters and symbols in each square on the pattern. Each of these symbols or letters represents a certain color of embroidery floss. That is the color you use to make that particular stitch.

Next to each pattern is a key to tell you which color embroidery floss corresponds to each symbol. The more complicated the pattern, the more colors and symbols will be used. In fact, some colors are so close to one another that it will be difficult to tell the difference. Therefore, it is a good idea to use marked bobbins for your floss.

The key will also tell you how many strands of embroidery floss to use for each stitch. It is important to follow those instructions so that your design comes out right. Otherwise you can end up with too thick or too thin lines and stitches. Also, the key will tell you about quarter stitches, half-squares, and French knots.

Other Details
The pattern will also give you an idea of the size of the finished product for the different types of fabric you can use. Aida fabric comes in different sizes, so make sure you pay attention to the fabric you are using before you pick out a design. You should always add three to six inches of extra fabric around the design, too.

Following a cross-stitch pattern is not rocket science, but you should look over all the elements before you get started. You want to make sure you are using the right pattern for your specific project and skill level.

Plus you want to make sure you have all the supplies you need, as it can be frustrating to have to stop stitching when you realize you are missing something.

Filed Under: Cross Stitch Patterns Tagged With: , , ,

How To Needle Point

January 27, 2012 By

Needlepoint kits have been around for many years, but there has never been more design choices on the market then what is on offer today. You are no longer restricted to traditional floral designs or somber scenes - needlepoint kits have come of age and there is sure to be a design available for everyone to enjoy; all in the one package.

A needlepoint kit will include everything you need to complete the design - no need to think about what type of thread or yarn to use; how much you will need; how to match the colors, and so on.

The kit manufacturer has done all this for you. They have created the design, pulled together all the relevant components, and then stitched it up to make sure it looks just so -- and so it can be photographed for the packaging.

Having a photo of the finished product allows you to see where you are going with the design. To have everything you need in the one package is a big help if you are a novice stitcher, or you do not have a lot of time on your hands and you want your project to be relaxing and not turn into one decision after another.

There are several different needlepoint kits on the market, ranging from reasonably affordable ones that you might find at a big box craft store, to quite expensive kits sold in needlepoint boutiques and online web stores. The cheaper varieties tend to be more traditional in style and are mostly kitted with cotton threads.

They are a good place to start if you are trying needlepoint for the first time and you do not want to invest a lot of money while you test the waters. However, first time stitchers can also manage most needlepoint kits that are sold through boutique outlets.

If you have found a design you love, you should be able to stitch it as a novice stitcher, as long as there is not a great deal of shading or color changing involved. It is usually best to start with a more basic design, perhaps on a larger mesh like 10 or 12 mesh, at least for your first project.

All needlepoint kits come with instructions for how to needlepoint. This means that even if you have not tried needlepoint before, you should be able to purchase any kit and learn from the instructions within. You will not get all the subtleties of needlepoint but you will certainly learn everything you need to complete the design and get a great finished product.

There are hundreds of kit styles on the market today. If you like traditional, floral designs then there are several brand choices. Some english needlepoint companies specialize in these more traditional designs. If modern or whimsical is more your style then there are manufacturers now who put out bright, fun, sassy designs.

Look for needlepoint kits by Buycrossstitch.com if you want a more contemporary feel. There is something for everyone.

You dont have tspend a lot of money when you learn how tneedlepoint. Look for free patriotic needlepoint patterns online, use some of your leftover yarn or floss from your craft stash, and create patriotic needlepoint designs that will add spice and spirit tyour homes decor all year long.

Needlepoint is easy tlearn, there is just one basic stitch tmaster in many designs, and your finished product can be anything from elegant twhimsical and beyond.

Free patriotic needlepoint can inspire others, too. Think about creating patriotic needlepoint bookmarks or pins, and send them ta service man or woman overseas thelp make their day a little brighter.

Or, give them as gifts tyour friends and family. Even better, create some extra tdonate tyour local nursing home or assisted living facility. Think how such a small item can make a big difference in a persons life, and youll start creating more and more needlepoint gifts tgive thospitals, service organizations, veterans groups, and more.

Some other ideas for free patriotic needlepoint patterns include:

Dog and cat collars. Show your patriotic spirit with a patriotic dog collar for your favorite pooch!

Place mats and table decorations. Find a free patriotic needlepoint design that fits your tabletop, and create custom place mats for Labor Day, July 4th, Memorial Day, and all through the year.

Pins and jewelry. Create patriotic jewelry for your friends and family tshow their love of their country.

Pictures and wall hangings. Create beautiful designs from free patriotic needlepoint patterns for your home. Patriotic designs are very popular home décor items, and you can create your own quickly and easily.

Welcome signs. Welcome everyone tyour home with a cheery patriotic needlepoint design on your front door or front porch.

Garden signs and decorations. If you use plastic canvas and plastic raffia or twine, you can create outdoor patriotic needlepoint garden signs. Whsays your garden cant be patriotic too?

Use your imagination. Just about any free patriotic needlepoint design can turn intthe inspiration for a new project. Create these designs on regular or plastic canvas, in true red, white, and blue spirit, and you can decorate your house, your yard, and give great gifts tyour friends, all with very little cash.

You might even try selling your designs traise a little cash, too.

What other materials will you need when you use your free patriotic needlepoint patterns? Youll need:

Needlepoint canvas (either fabric or plastic).

A tapestry needle (the right size tfit through your canvas and hold your yarn).

Yarn, embroidery floss, or twine (tstitch with).

Its not hard tget started in needlepoint, and free patriotic needlepoint designs are a great way tget started. Because they only use three basic colors, you dont have tinvest a lot of money tget started.

Once you start creating patriotic needlepoint, you just may find youre addicted tthis hobby. Its easy, fun, and you can create your own patriotic designs once you get the hang of it.

Filed Under: Cross Stitch, Cross Stitch Articles, Cross Stitch Kits, Cross Stitch Patterns, Knitting Tagged With: ,

How To Embroider

January 23, 2012 By

How To Embroider

Learning how to embroider begins with the tools or hardware that we need to use such as embroidery needles, embroidery floss, fabric, a pair of small and sharp scissors, and an embroidery hoop.

The embroidery hoop is composed of two rings wherein the fabric will be attached in order to make the embroidery process easier. As compared to normal needles, embroidery needles are composed of bigger eyes as they have to accommodate the size of the floss.

As for the fabric, we need to choose the one that we want best. Ideally, a simple quilting fabric will already do.

We dont need fabrics that are too stretchy or those that are loosely woven. Now that we know the materials needed, we now need to know how to embroider by familiarizing ourselves with some of the basic stitches.

The running stitch is the most basic embroidery stitch and it is the one used for regular sewing. With the running stitch, the stitches do not have to be of equal sizes.

There are times when the stitches have to be long while there are also times when stitches have to be short; this all depends on the design being done. If we are serious in learning how to embroider, the running stitch is the first type of stitch that we need to learn.

While the running stitch is mostly used for designs or speech bubbles, the backstitch is ideal for text as the stitches are more uniform, allowing the text to be more readable.

In doing the backstitch, the thread has to be pulled up first and then make a stitch either to the left or to the right, this all depends on the direction of the pattern. To avoid confusion, lets focus on making a stitch to the left.

So, from the left side, pull the thread up to the right with the length a little longer than the original stitch. After doing so, make a stitch again to the left just beside the original stitch made. The process just has to be repeated several times until the desired pattern is achieved.

If we learn how to embroider the backstitch way, then it will be easy for us to learn the split stitch since the strokes are almost similar. Its just that in most cases, the stitches used for split stitch are smaller than the backstitch.

While the backstitch is ideal for texts, the split stitch is ideal in creating a little texture to the design. Somehow, the split stitch is used for finishing touches such as to finish a cupcake design.

Those who are interested in learning how to embroider should start by familiarizing themselves with these three embroidery stitches before proceeding to learning the other types of stitches.

Handcrafted items sell like hotcakes today. And with online sales and marketing tools in abundance - and at affordable prices starting at FREE, its no wonder that embroidered towels can be made and sold to help you earn extra income - right from home.

No experience necessary. This article discusses the craft items youll need to make beautiful handmade towels for personal use and business use. And then well touch on business basics to get you up and selling in no time flat.

Ingredients for Successful Embroidery Business

First you need fabric or towels that are already made so that you can embroider on them. Head to the local sewing shop for help or online. Seek soft cloth like terry for your towels, and check stores like WalMart and Odd Lots for cheap blank towels in solid colors that you can use for your embroidering.

Next, if you are making yours form scratch, ask the sewing staff to help you choose a stabilizer that goes underneath the towels surface to provide a sort of foundation for your stitching. Store bought towels, dont worry. Use as-is; theyre ready to go.

Next you need sewing materials: embroidery hoop, needles, colored thread and pattern for your design. Most of these can be found online today. You can download patterns, print them out and use them. And some places, even locally, sell kits with everything you need for projects.

Seek help as needed form helpful online resources like article directories, chock full or how-to articles. And call around to local sewing centers for classes and help, too.

Successful Sewing Sales

Once your towels are ready to market, take some snap shots of them, if possible, with a digital camera. Then you can head to eBay, the worlds largest auction site, and set up shop immediately.

First search other similar auctions for ideas on what to say on your sales page and how to price your goods. Check shipping and handling, too, as you probably want to stay within your own country for starters, to save on shipping.

Then register for a free account at ebay.com. Complete your profile, and set up your first auction. Ebay has tutorials to walk you through all this step by step. They also have a Community of bulletin boards where you can post questions and communicate with other eBay sellers.

Learn and grow your business. Sell sets, package them with soaps you can buy in bulk then split up at ebay, and do other fun promotional campaigns. Read helpful articles on business and on growing business with eBay in particular.

If you are interested in learning embroidery, then the first step is to learn about the various stitches. Once you have learnt and understood each stitch, then no matter how complex a design maybe, it is not difficult to fill it up. Ideally, you must start with a simple design and the progress towards larger designs that also require more detailing.

In this guide of how to embroider for beginners we will take a look at various embroidery stitches...

The stitches:

The line stitch: This is the stitch usually done to create the outline of a design. This is the simplest and most basic stitch also used in sewing objects. There are various line stitches, which are as follows:

Running stitch:
This is also termed as the basic sewing stitch; and is also used as a decorative embroidery stitch. Right-handed individuals will work this stitch from the right to the left, or top to bottom, as required. The left-handers will ideally work from left to right, or bottom to top. This is a forward running, continuous stitch.

Whipped running stitch:
In this stitch the needle has to be brought up to the point where the running stitch began. Following this the needle has to be taken down through each of the running stitches. If a contrast thread is used then the line would look like a candy.

Back stitch:
This is also an outline stitch and is used for sewing objects. This is a tight stitch. With this stitch the gap in the running stitch is covered.

Outline stitch:
In this type of stitch the stitches form a solid rope-like line.

Stem stitch:
This is a stitch, which is tighter than the outline stitch. This stitch is ideal for creating embroidered leaves and flowers.

The other stitches include:

Coral stitch
Scroll stitch
Chained stitch
Fishbone stitch
Flat stitch
Satin stitch
Buttonhole stitch
Lazy-daisy stitch
French knot
Fly stitch

Filed Under: Cross Stitch Patterns Tagged With:

Cross Stitch Designs and Patterns

January 21, 2012 By

Cross Stitch Designs and Patterns

Cross stitching sayings or motifs on clothing is a great way to personalize your look, or promote your message, whether you want people to know your grandkids are the greatest, or that you like horses or cats. With these sewing tips you can use all sorts of cross stitch designs or create your own.

You can stitch directly on some fabrics if the weave is even enough not to warp the cross stitch patterns and the fabric is sturdy enough not to be pulled into warps and bubbles by the stitches, but it takes a good eye to count the individual threads and there are easier ways to get your design on the fabric.

Fabrics not suitable for cross stitch include any finely woven soft fabric like silk and its artificial imitators such as rayon. Some linens are sturdy enough to hold the stitches, but try a tiny piece first and see before you spend a lot of money on a great piece of fabric only to discover it buckles when you pull the threads.

These sewing techniques should help you learn how to start cross stitching. You can find cross stitch designs or create your own. Gather your cross stitch supplies and sewing tips and lets get started.

The best clothing items for cross stitch are sweatshirts and ball caps. And the best way to get an even-looking pattern is with a product called waste canvas.

Waste canvas can be bought in any craft shop and most fabric stores. It is a very loose, open-woven fabric that is very stiff with starch. In fact, the starch holds it together, which will become important later.

Waste canvas comes in all popular thread counts, but for stitching on sweats and caps, 8-count is a good size. You will have to use three or four threads in your needle to get enough coverage. (See How To Cross Stitch for a discussion of cloth thread counts.) While youre at the craft store, you may also want to check out cross stitch patterns.

Calculate the size of your design. If it is 50 stitches wide and you are planning to use 8-count canvas, your design will be 50/8 or 6.25 inches. If this is larger than you wanted, use a higher-count canvas and vice versa.

Cut a piece of canvas the size of your design plus an inch or two on all sides for basting. Baste the waste canvas to the clothing item, using big stitches.
Now find the center of your canvas and the center of the design.

Start working from the center out. If you try to start from a corner, you may get to the end of the project and find you have miscalculated and your design is off-center.

You are stitching through both the clothing item and the waste canvas, with the waste canvas being your stitching guide. Dont worry about the look yet, the canvas is getting in the way.

Once you have finished your design (and not before!), use a sponge and clear clean water, or a spray bottle filled with water, and saturate your work. Get it good and soaked--it is necessary that the entire waste canvas be well wetted, because this dissolves the starch that is holding it together.

Once the waste canvas is soaked and limp, you can now pull out individual strands of the canvas from beneath the stitches. You may have to pull them out one thread at a time, but usually you can pull two or three at a time.

Discard the strands of canvas and allow your clothing item to air-dry. Your stitched design should be machine-washable and dryable, if you have used good quality embroidery threads.

Now you understand the term waste canvas. The canvas, after serving its purpose, is thrown out, or wasted. Be careful not to spill anything on your work in progress--if you dissolve the starch in the canvas before you are through, nothing can make it stiffen again. These sewing techniques and cross stitch supplies will help you create cross stitch clothing.

Filed Under: Cross Stitch Patterns Tagged With: , , ,

Best Guide On How To Cross Stitch

January 21, 2012 By

Best Guide On How To Cross Stitch

Learning How to cross stitch is easy to learn! Counted cross stitch transfers a design from a printed graph onto Aida or evenweave fabric. The different styles of symbols on the chart represent different colors of floss. Cross stitch is easy to learn and requires only a few supplies.

A Look At Cross Stitch Supplies

Fabric
The fabric for cross stitch is woven in an even manner so that you know exactly where to place your needle. To keep the fabric from raveling, either stitch the edges on a sewing machine or use masking tape to prevent fraying.

Follow the easy-to-understand instructions, accompanying each spool of this product from Carolinas Crafty Corner. One can then easily see the grids on the fabric and can find where one is in relation to the pattern at any time with ease and comfort.

Counting more than once is a thing of the past. Mistakes are also avoided from the very beginning of the project.

Needle
A tapestry needle is used, usually a size 24 or 26 (size 26 is smaller than size 24). This type of needle has a blunt point and a large eye. Use a size 24 for stitching on 14 count fabric; use a size 26 for fabric with a stitch count greater than 14.

Floss
Embroidery floss is a cotton thread used for stitching. Floss has 6 strands, but usually you will use only 2 strands at a time for stitching and 1 strand for backstitching. On Hardanger fabric (22 count) you usually will use only 1 strand; on 11 count Aida use 3 strands to stitch and 2 to backstitch. Most books and graphs suggest either DMC or Anchor brands.

Embroidery Hoop
A plastic embroidery hoop is helpful to hold the fabric while you stitch. Remove the fabric from the hoop when you are not stitching to keep from getting hoop marks.

Scissors. You can start out with any pair of scissors, but pretty soon you will want to get a nice pair of small embroidery scissors. Get a good quality pair with sharp points. A good pair of scissors makes stitching a lot more fun.

Choosing Your Fabric. There are dozens of fabrics to choose from. They will all work, so you just have to decide on what you like. White or ivory Aida 14 is the most common and 14 count is an easy fabric to start on.

The number of stitches per inch will determine the finished size of the design. A design that is 28 stitches wide stitched on Aida 14 (14 stitches per inch fabric) will be 2 wide.

The same design will be 2-1/2 wide on Aida 11, and 1-1/4 stitched on hardanger (22 stitches per inch). Thankfully, most designs show design sizes for different counts of fabrics. Be sure to allow extra fabric for finishing (at least 4 extra on length and width).

To Begin

Find the center of the graph. For most patterns this is shown with arrows or a bold line. Next, find the center of your fabric. An easy way to do this is to fold the fabric in half vertically and pinch with your fingers to make a small crease.

Open the fabric, fold in half horizontally and make another pinch. Open the fabric up. The two creases will mark the center of the fabric. Most stitchers like to start stitching close to the center of the design.

Knots on the back will show through, so do not use any knots to start or end. To begin stitching, bring the threaded needle up from the back of the fabric leaving about a 1 tail of thread behind the fabric.

Stitch the next 5 or 6 stitches over the tail. Clip off extra thread. To end off, weave your needle back through the last 5 or 6 stitches and clip the thread short so as not to leave a loose tail.

Stitching

There are two methods. The first method is to work a row of half stitches (////), then work back (\\) to complete the Xs. Use this method for most stitching. The second method is to complete each X as you go. Use this method for vertical rows of stitches.

It is important that the Xs are crossed in the same direction. That is, the top thread of the X should always slant in the same direction (either or /). It does not matter which way they slant, but if they are mixed the finished piece will look uneven.

Relax as you stitch. Your stitches should lay flat on your fabric and not distort the holes or the fabric.

Backstitching

Backstitching is a running stitch (not an X) used to outline an area or to form lettering. Normally you use one less strand of floss for backstitching than you use for cross stitching.

Carrying Your Thread

Sometimes a color will have only a few stitches and then jump to another area. Most of the time a stitcher should end off and start again; other times you can carry the thread along the back.

Just jumping from area to area is easier than starting and stopping, but sometimes the thread will show through. This can be a problem if you jump a dark thread over an unstitched area.

Finishing

When you are finished with your stitching, pull the from your fabric and wash your project in cool water using a mild liquid detergent. Rinse well. Do not wring, but roll in a clean towel to absorb most of the water. While the fabric is still damp, place it face down on a terry towel. Place another cloth on top of the needlework and press lightly with a warm iron. Let dry.

Then frame or finish as desired.

You are ready to begin your stitching!! Good luck as you start a new learning experience!!

Technical Corner for Advanced Cross Stitchers

Graphed Designs

Cross stitch designs are graphed on a gridded background. Each square on the graph represents a single cross stitch.

Graphs usually have one or two extra grid rows surrounding the design.

Bold lines occur every ten grid squares.

Arrows indicate the center of the graph.

The stitch count for the width of the design is expressed first, then the height.

Each symbol, colored square, or combination of these elements on the design represents a single cross stitch in a particular floss color.

The key to the symbols is adjacent to the graph and indicates which floss color and the number of strands of floss to use for each stitch.

Fabrics

Cross stitch is worked on an evenweave fabric, which means that the same number of threads are woven horizontally (weft) as vertically (warp). This assumes that the same number of cross stitches will be created in each direction of the fabric and that each individual cross stitch is square and the same size as the others.

Evenweave fabrics come in a variety of thread counts, weave patterns, colors, and fiber content.

The thread count refers to the number of threads along one horizontal or vertical inch of the fabric for plain-weave fabrics, such as linen. For complex-weave fabrics, such as Aida or Hardanger, the count per inch is determined by squares created in the weave.

The thread count in an evenweave fabric determines the size of the design. The higher the number per inch, the smaller the design will be.

The most common evenweave fabrics are cotton Aida, linen, cotton and rayon plain-weave fabrics, plastic canvas, vinyl Aida, and perforated paper. The latter three items are not fabrics but foundation materials upon which cross stitch can be worked.

Aida

This fabric is the most popular cross stitch fabric for beginners. This cotton fabric is woven in a complex weave of groups of four threads, which form distinctive small squares with easily visible corner holes.

An individual cross stitch is formed from corner to corner over each small fabric square. The stitch count of Aida fabrics is based on the number of these squares per inch. Aida fabric is available in 11, 14, 16, and 18 count.

Linen

This is a plain-weave fabric made from flax. Plain-weave means that each fabric thread is woven in the typical over-under method. Normally each cross stitch is formed over an intersection of two of these fabric threads in both directions (horizontally and vertically). There are no obviously visible corner holes, so it takes a little more practice to learn to cross stitch on linen.

Linen fabric comes in a variety of thread counts and colors. The most common linen thread counts are 25, 28, 32, and 36 threads per inch. Because the cross stitches are formed over two threads of the linen, the stitch count is half the thread count. Therefore, if you are using 28-count fabric, then 14 cross stitches can be formed on one inch of fabric (28 divided by 2 = 14).

Plastic Canvas and Perforated Plastic. Plastic canvas is needlepoint canvas made from plastic and has large square holes. It is available in 8 ½ x 11 sheets, in three mesh sizes (7, 10, and 14) and in several colors. However, stitches normally use only the smallest mesh because floss covers this size of grid well.

Perforated plastic has smaller, punched out, round holes. It is available only in 14-count and in 8 ½ x 11 sheets. Both plastic canvas and perforated plastic does not ravel and is somewhat rigid. They can be used for three-dimensional items such as boxes, baskets, and ornaments.

Vinyl Aida. More flexible than plastic canvas, vinyl Aida resembles cotton Aida in appearance. It is available in 14-and 18-counts and in seven colors. Vinyl Aida is sold in sheets of several sizes and by the yard.

Because vinyl Aida will not rip, ravel, or tear easily, it can be cut to follow any design shape. This product is commonly used for flat items, such as place mats, coasters, and holiday ornaments, as well as dimensional items which are more rounded than those of plastic canvas.

Perforated Paper. This material has been used as a stitching surface for over a century and is still used today. It is available in 9 x 12 sheets and in several colors, but presently only in 14-count. Perforated paper is more fragile than the previous two products. This is used for holiday ornaments, bookmarks, and gift tags.

Needles

Cross stitch is done with a tapestry needle, which is characterized by a large eye and a blunt tip. This type of needle will slip between the threads and not pierce them.

The size of the needle to use is determined by the thread count of the fabric and the number of floss strands to be used. For tapestry needles, the higher the number, the smaller the needle is in length and diameter. Stitchers use size 22, 24, 26, and 28 tapestry needles for most of their work. A size 24 or 26 needle is usually used for cross stitching on 14-count fabrics.

Because the eye of the needle is made by the needle being struck by a die, one side is more concave than the other. This concave side is easier to thread because the thread is channeled into the hole.

If you are having difficulty threading a needle, turn it around and try again. If the difficulty still persists, then change to a larger needle or try a needle threader, which is available in several styles. Use a small emery bag, traditionally shaped like a strawberry, to clean needles. Push the needle into the bag several times.

However, if the needle is bent, discolored, or rough, throw it away, for damaged needles are difficult to stitch with and may discolor the fabric.

Embroidery Flosses and Threads

Cotton Floss
This is the most commonly used floss for cross stitch because of its vast color range, low cost, sheen, availability, and divisible nature. It is available in skeins of six-ply thread, which can be grouped into different numbers of plies as needed. There are several brands available. DMC brand floss colors will be indicated in each graph key.

Silk Floss
This floss is similar to cotton floss, except that it is made of 100% spun silk and is commonly available in either six-or seven-ply skeins. Silk floss has a luxurious sheen, is also divisible, and can be used similarly to cotton floss.

However, it is slightly thicker in diameter than cotton floss.

Flower Thread

This thread is made from cotton, has a fine twist, and comes in a matte finish. Flower thread was originally designed to be used as a single thread on 14-count fabrics. It is slightly thicker in diameter than a single strand of cotton floss. Flower thread is not divisible like cotton floss, so you will use it as it comes from the skein. One strand of flower thread equals two strands of cotton floss.

Rayon Thread
This thread is 100% rayon (viscose), available in four-or six-ply skeins, and extremely shiny. This thread is tricky to control, but by slightly moistening it with a barely damp, clean sponge you can straighten out any kinks and better control it.

Overdyed Cotton or Silk Floss. These flosses, regardless of fiber content, are irregularly dyed with several colors or several hues of the same color family.

Manufacturers of these overdyed flosses create many different color combinations. The changeable color patterns create a dramatic effect without the stitcher having to constantly change floss color in the needle. In order to avoid creating a tweedy effect, stitch each cross-stitch individually before proceeding to the next.

Metallics. Metal threads may be added to needlework for additional elegance and glitz. The earliest real metal threads were difficult to work with because of their stiff and fragile nature.

Now softer, more pliable, synthetic metallic threads are available in many weights and textures. Because they are made from acetate or a similar product, they are easier to work with and require less care, yet they add the same texture, dimension, and luster as the earlier real metal threads did.

The most popular of todays metallics are marketed as metallic embroidery threads and flosses, blending filaments, braids, ribbons, cords, and cables.

Blending filament is a one-ply metallic thread, which can be used alone or in combination with other threads to add sparkle to water, snow, stars, feathers and flowers. Braids and ribbons of various sizes may be used alone for a more textured metallic look. Cord is a one-ply, tightly twisted metallic thread, which can be used for outlining. Cable is a three-ply, heavy, metallic thread used for special effects.

Scissors

Embroidery Scissors. A pair of small, sharp-pointed scissors is a must-have accessory. They are used not only for cutting lengths of floss, but also come in handy for cutting out misplaced stitches and for trimming the floss ends on the back of the stitched fabric.

Fabric Scissors
A pair of 8-long shears is necessary for cutting the evenweave fabric.

Craft Scissors. Use a pair of craft scissors when cutting plastic or paper canvas.

Measuring Tools

Tape Measure
A flexible tape measure is useful for measuring dimensions longer than 18 and around curved items.

Ruler

Straight edged rulers of several lengths are a necessity. Plastic see-through rules of 1 x 6 and 2 x 18 lengths are generally the most useful for cross stitch projects. For measurements longer than 18 use a tape measure or a yardstick.

This tool allows the user to weave a grid on the fabric to match the grid on the pattern. An X and Y axis is marked with the Guideline and at each 10 space intervals. The guideline can remain in the fabric until the project is completed. It is easily removed by pulling the guideline from the fabric.

Miscellaneous Tools

Tweezers

Needlework tweezers are available in several sizes and shapes. They are used to help pick out unwanted stitches, to remove tiny fibers left behind on the fabric where stitches once resided, and to remove pet hair from stitched pieces.

Fabric-Stretching Devices

Although cross stitch can be worked with the fabric held only in the hands, many stitchers find that fabric-stretching devices are ideal for keeping the stitch size and tension consistent, and the design fabric clean.

Remember to add an extra inch or two to the total fabric size for this stapling or tacking process.

Filed Under: Cross Stitch Patterns Tagged With: , ,

Free Cross Stitch Patterns

January 18, 2012 By

Who uses free counted cross stitch patterns and graphs? Anyone who wants them, but there are many uses for these patterns. Free cross stitch patterns are often found on the Internet which is a great source for these patterns.

Some people use these patterns to incorporate and merge them with other patterns and motifs to create a brand new pattern idea. These customized patterns are then either used for personal use or are marketed and sold with a new name or title.

A designer who specializes in free cross stitch patterns is Caroline who presents patterns to the general public for personal use only.

Also, a site called Better Cross Stitch Patterns.com offers very nice, unique free patterns. The atmosphere is very friendly there, and they go out of their way to make a stitcher feel at home.

Large companies like DMC and many others offer patterns without cost on their websites for both beginners and experienced stitchers. Their patterns include alphabet charts, floral patterns and animal charts.

Here, the free patterns are used as an effective approach to get you into their site, download the free pattern(s), and perhaps they are hoping you might see other goodies you just cannot live without which leads to the anticipated purchase.

While some companies are very specific about your use of these patterns stating they are for personal use only, others will allow you to download the free pattern, stitch it, and then sell the finished stitched project for your own profit as long as you make the proper attribution to the seller by providing a link back to the sellers website.

However, those of you who download these free patterns are discouraged from re-selling the actual free pattern itself.

People who cross stitch and use free patterns also like to trade and switch back and forth with other stitchers on cross stitch blog sites, thus creating a network of patterns that can end up with interesting variations (in colors) depending on how creative you are.

As far as designing goes, there are even sites out there who have free graph paper for you to print off for use in designing your own patterns. Software such as PatternMaker has a library of free motifs for use in developing and designing a custom pattern.

Filed Under: Cross Stitch, Cross Stitch Articles, Cross Stitch Kits, Cross Stitch Patterns Tagged With: , , ,

Framing Your Cross Stitch Project

January 16, 2012 By

For many stitchers, the most exciting step of creating a cross stitch project is the final one  that of framing. Now! At last, you can finally think about showing off the results of your time and creative effort.

For the very best results, framing your project involves several steps and decisions. Heres my set of top tips for making this look as good as it can possibly be.

Choose a frame

Stitchers habitually like to take their completed project with them when selecting a frame. Having your project with you can make it easier for you to choose the style and the size. When choosing, take your time to select a style that compliments your design and a size that isnt overwhelming.

Then, after deciding on the best style and size, consider the material of the frame. And do bear in mind that some wood and plastic frames can leak acid over long periods of time. You may want to consult your local craft store for advice on the best way to prevent this damage from happening.

Decide if you want to use glass

If you use glass, use plain glass rather than non-reflective glass. And if youre hanging your project up high or have young children you might wish to consider toughened or safety glass; be aware of the extra cost though.

Also, make certain your frame is deep enough so the glass does not touch the stitching. To keep the glass away from the stitching, most stitchers use either multiple mats or spacers.

Select the mats

Mats not only give your work a polished, professional look, they also keep the glass from touching the stitches by using multiple mats. Select acid-free mats to protect your project. Experts suggest the borders of the bottom mat should be the same width or a little wider than the frame. The borders of the top mat should be smaller so you can see the bottom mat.

Generally, the best appearance is obtained by ensuring the bottom mat is a color that either matches a main thread in your project, or a color that coordinates with both the project and the frame. The bottom mat should always be your predominate color. The top mat should be a neutral color or a variation of the predominate color.

Attach your project to a mounting board.

In order to prevent damage to your project, select a board that is acid-free. Cut the board so it is slightly smaller than the frame, add batting if you wish, and then center your pattern and make certain the fabric is taut.

One handy way to make certain your project is correctly centered before you permanently attach it is to pin the overlapping fabric to the mounting board. By using pins, you can make adjustments until you are satisfied with the fitting.

When youve got the fabric taut and in place, attach it permanently to the mounting board either by stitching it to the board or by using a fabric adhesive. In general, the experts agree that the best approach is to stitch the overlapping sides to the mounting board using heavy thread.

Insert your project into the frame.

If you intend using glass in the frame and are using spacers, put them in place before inserting your project. If you dont have actual spacers and worry the stitches may touch the glass, you can use extra pieces from a mat. Simply place thin pieces of the mat along the edges so they are hidden by the frame. Then set your project on top of these pieces.

Next, secure your project in the frame. Glazier points work nicely, and most craft and hardware stores carry them. When you use glazier points, one end is secured into the back of the frame. The other end holds your project in place.

If your frame does not have a back cover, you should use acid-free paper, either brown or decorative, to protect your project.

Attach wire or a picture hanger to the frame.

Usually frames do not come with wire or a hanger. Picture hangers are easy to attach because you simply nail them in the center of the top side of the frame.

Picture hangers work well with small frames. If your frame is large, consider using wire instead. Remember to add a little extra wire so it isnt too tight, and an extra hook to hang it on too, if the frame is on the heavy side.

Now that youve framed your beautiful cross stitch project, the only remaining step is to sit back, admire your accomplishment, and bask in the praise of others.

Filed Under: Cross Stitch, Cross Stitch Articles, Cross Stitch Kits, Cross Stitch Patterns Tagged With: , , ,
« Older Posts