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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: , ,

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: ,

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: , , ,

Finding Quality Cross Stitch Kits

January 12, 2012 By

There are cross stitch kits available for anything from Halloween decorations to cartoon characters and much more.

The fourth of July always has a few stars and stripes cross stitching kits that assist you in getting into the season and creating a festive environment.

Even if you are simply creating a sock, pillow, or anything else that you may be creating, these cross stitch kits are easy to use and very inexpensive, providing all the needed materials and patterns in order to complete the project accurately.

Gifts for Family

Sometimes, there is nothing better as a gift from a loved one than something that was created with love and with cross stitch kits, you can easily create such a gift. You can create beautiful patterns and framed gifts that are great for any occasion.

Whether you are introducing a new member into the family through birth or marriage, offering a birthday or anniversary gift, or any other occasion, you can easily and quickly use a cross stitch kit to create the perfect way to express your care and joy of the occasion.

Easy to Find

There are cross stitch kits found just about in any crafts store online and locally. Most superstores will even offer small kits that are great for beginners or even the most advanced cross stitching masters.

You can create such beautiful art in such little time, learning as you go and getting more advanced kits as you continue to learn.

Once you get a great deal of experience, you can get the most advanced kits that will offer the thread, needle, and any other parts that are needed to create the image you are stitching. Enjoying your time while you create beautiful patterns is all contained in a kit so easy to find.

Cross stitching is a pastime that many people can enjoy both young and old. From creating beautiful framed works to providing gifts to your loved ones and embracing the holidays, you can get excellent cross stitch kits that provide everything that you will need to get started and carryout the entire project from start to finish.

With all the supplies provided and a great guide for completing the cross stitching, you will be able to complete your new project in no time, starting on the next for another great gift or decoration.

Cross stitching kits were a great invention for those who want to learn cross stitching. They make learning fun and easy because they provide all the supplies you need in a single kit so you can focus on learning.

After youve made your first kit project, you will find that you really do know how to cross stitch because there isnt much to this craft to begin with. What makes a stitching project more or less complicated is its size and some of the embellishments you can add to any project to enhance it.

There are two kinds of kits you should know about. Stamped cross stitch kits and counted cross stitch kits. The difference between these two is that in one the pattern is actually stamped or printed on the fabric, kind of like a coloring page. Counted cross stitch requires that you read a pattern and then stitch it on the fabric.

Typically stamped cross stitch is for beginners and is part of a kit. It makes it easier to focus on learning the handful of easy embroidery stitches that are considered cross stitching. The only additional skill you need to make counted kits is to be able to count and read a chart or pattern. Either kind of kit will teach you cross stitching.

The supplies in these kits include aida fabric, a needle, the DMC or embroidery floss for the design and sometimes a hoop as well as a design and instructions.

The patterns in these kits are typically very simple designs, though some are quite elaborate. Two very good brands for cross stitching kits are made by Bucilla and Janlynn. They both make all kinds of embroidery, needlepoint and cross stitch project kits.

If you have ever played tic tac toe then you already know how to make the main stitch used in cross stitch because it is just like drawing the x. You take your needle up from a top corner in the grid fabric called aida cloth, and take the needle down on the opposite corner of that same grid, just like the diagonal line you make when you are playing tic tac toe.

Then you bring your needle back up on the other top corner and diagonally back down at the other bottom corner of the grid to make the x. Its that simple.

Other than that you should know NOT to tie a knot in your cross stitch floss before you start stitching. Instead, leave a bit of a tail and old it so that as you make other stitches you kind of sew over it.

When you get to the end of your thread or need to change colors, just run your needle under some of the other stitches already there on the back. Thats sufficient for cross stitch to keep the end from coming undone.

You may find that placing your fabric in a embroidery hoop or frame will help hold it taught for you and make it easier to hold while you stitch.

When you are done you can frame it and hang it up or include it in some other larger project like a pillow, hand towels, bib or bookmaker.

These cross stitching kits make great gifts for wedding showers or baby showers too! Look for Disney designs or wedding themed kits.

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

Cross Stitch Tips and Ideas

December 30, 2011 By

The most exciting part about doing a cross stitch project other than starting it is actually finishing it. When your stitches are actually crossed and your final back stitch is placed its time to decide what you want to do to display the needlework youre so proud of.

A lot of people jump right to the thought of framing the piece. What size frame should they get? One matte or two mattes? Glass or plexi for protection? Standing frame or hanging frame?

But, the truth is there are so many options for your final finish other than a typical frame (or even a fancy frame.) Of course, a few of the options are going to depend on the size of your finished cross stitch, but dont be afraid to get creative to get the effect you want in the end.

One of the most popular framing alternatives is sewing the piece into a pillow or a sham. Of course, this lends well to small to medium sized cross stitch pieces and because it will be out on display you may want to use simple designs in this option because they might or might not washing at some point.

A similar option that I really enjoy for small pieces is to create a quilt block to be part of a larger wall hanging or even an actual quilt. It gives a nice personalized touch to the overall project and sets it apart from a typical quilting project.

So, lets talk about a few things you can do to jazz up that new project to make it a little more your own.

Blending Filaments - These are a sparkly shiny thread that you can purchase to give a bit of shimmer to your project. You can thread it into the needle with your floss and stitch that way, or you can thread the blending filament alone and just stitch over top of the current stitches to add a bit of shine in certain places. This adds a great touch to any piece.

Beads and Charms - You can use seed beads in place of french knots or place a few around the outer edge of a design for a nice depth of texture. Charms can also be bought and added anywhere on a piece for a little bit of added charm;-)

Specialty Threads - Silk, Rayon, Metallic, Hand Dyed, there are any number of floss types in addition to your regular standard embroidery floss.

Swapping out any standard color in your project and using one of these specialty threads in its place can make a huge difference in your finished project.

Take a minute or two today to look through your crafty stash and see what you can add to that work in progress cross stitch project to make it just a little more you. Get creative, have fun, and most of all enjoy what youre doing.

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

Machine Cross Stitching

December 28, 2011 By

Learning to cross stitch on an embroidery machine can be confusing and frustrating if you havent received the right instruction or what can be some very helpful hints and tips.

There are so many things that can go wrong if you dont take the right approach.

It is important to start out with the right information so you have a good experience. Machine cross stitching should be a fun and exciting new twist on your old hobby, however there are a few things that can really help you to succeed in your new machine endeavors.

One of the first mistakes most people make is that they refuse to stitch out their design on another scrap piece of fabric first.

This is important so you know how big the design will appear, whether or not you will have enough fabric, as well as if your fabric is going to be a difficult fabric to work with.

If you take this step and find that the fabric you are planning to use for your final project is a frustrating fabric to stitch on you have the option of choosing to switch before using up all your thread on the original fabric.

Stitching on scrap fabric, although it should be the same type of fabric you are going to use for your final piece, will show you what your design will look like when it is finished so you may make any adjustments before you start in on your real project fabric. But always remember using a different type of material or fabric will cause your design to be altered.

If you dont have the same type of fabric to test stitch on use a fabric that is similar, usually a lighter weight fabric will get a more accurate result than a fabric that is heaver than your original fabric.

Some step by step tips for machine cross stitching include rather obviously making sure there is enough thread on your bobbin before beginning.

As well as after you set your machine up for embroidery check to see if you need to insert a new needle. After selecting your thread colors, hoop your fabric firmly and dont forget to stabilize the fabric as well.

When hooping your fabric be sure not to pull the fabric so tight it acts as though you could take it along with you to drum practice.

If you hoop your fabric too tightly it will not lie flat after you have finished stitching and the unstitched fabric will tend to bounce back with its original elasticity as the stitched fabric will continue to lie pulled tight by the stitches that were made when the fabric was hooped.

After your fabric has been hooped firmly make several stitches to ensure that the thread is locked into place. Next you will simply stitch out the design you have chosen to work with.

After you have stitched out your design and are happy with the results of your work you will want to trim all the excess threads that may be hanging around as well as remove any excess stabilizer from the fabric or design.

This is a basic tutorial on getting started with your machine, and should be helpful in the early days; however there are other strange machine encounters we will discuss in the future I am sure!

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

Machine Cross Stitching Steps

December 27, 2011 By

Learning to cross stitch on an embroidery machine can be confusing and frustrating if you havent received the right instruction or what can be some very helpful hints and tips. There are so many things that can go wrong if you dont take the right approach.

It is important to start out with the right information so you have a good experience. Machine cross stitching should be a fun and exciting new twist on your old hobby, however there are a few things that can really help you to succeed in your new machine endeavors.

One of the first mistakes most people make is that they refuse to stitch out their design on another scrap piece of fabric first.

This is important so you know how big the design will appear, whether or not you will have enough fabric, as well as if your fabric is going to be a difficult fabric to work with.

If you take this step and find that the fabric you are planning to use for your final project is a frustrating fabric to stitch on you have the option of choosing to switch before using up all your thread on the original fabric.

Stitching on scrap fabric, although it should be the same type of fabric you are going to use for your final piece, will show you what your design will look like when it is finished so you may make any adjustments before you start in on your real project fabric. But always remember using a different type of material or fabric will cause your design to be altered.

If you dont have the same type of fabric to test stitch on use a fabric that is similar, usually a lighter weight fabric will get a more accurate result than a fabric that is heaver than your original fabric.

Some step by step tips for machine cross stitching include rather obviously making sure there is enough thread on your bobbin before beginning.

As well as after you set your machine up for embroidery check to see if you need to insert a new needle. After selecting your thread colors, hoop your fabric firmly and dont forget to stabilize the fabric as well.

When hooping your fabric be sure not to pull the fabric so tight it acts as though you could take it along with you to drum practice. If you hoop your fabric too tightly it will not lie flat after you have finished stitching and the unstitched fabric will tend to bounce back with its original elasticity as the stitched fabric will continue to lie pulled tight by the stitches that were made when the fabric was hooped.

After your fabric has been hooped firmly make several stitches to ensure that the thread is locked into place. Next you will simply stitch out the design you have chosen to work with.

After you have stitched out your design and are happy with the results of your work you will want to trim all the excess threads that may be hanging around as well as remove any excess stabilizer from the fabric or design.

This is a basic tutorial on getting started with your machine, and should be helpful in the early days; however there are other strange machine encounters we will discuss in the future I am sure!

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