Cross-stitch:
Cross-stitch is a form of embroidery or needlepoint in which stitches in the form of X's, are stitched to form a picture, design, or text.
Stitching:
There are two different methods to use when cross stitching. One is to make all of the ( / / / / / ) stitches and then go back making the ( \ \ \ \ \ ) stitches.
Step 1:
Step 2:
The second method is to make one X at a time, such as ( / ) then ( \ ) on the same square, then moving to the next square ( / ) then ( \). What is important here is that all your stitches lay the same way.
Either all of the ( / ) stitches are on top and all the ( \ ) stitches are on the bottom, or all the ( \ ) stitches are on top and all the ( / ) stitches are on the bottom throughout the entire pattern.
Cross-stitch fabric:
Cross-stitch patterns are typically stitched on aida cloth. Aida cloth is available in a variety of colors, the most common being white or ivory. The finished size of the pattern depends on the count of the cloth used.
The most popular count, 14 count aida fabric is the easiest to stitch on and will result in a larger size than a pattern stitched on a 16 count aida fabric, a 16 count aida cloth will result in a pattern size smaller than an 18 count aida cloth, etc...
Typical aida counts are 14, 16, 18, and 22. Most designs will list the finished size of the pattern for different counts of fabric. When choosing a fabric, make sure you leave 2 inches extra fabric on each side.
For example, if you are stitching a design that you would then to frame in an 7 by 5 frame, your fabric should be at least 11 to 9 inches.
Stamped Cross-stitch:
Sometimes, the pattern or design is stamped directly onto the fabric and the stitcher simply stitched over the printed design. This is called stamped cross-stitch.
Floss:
Floss is the embroidery thread used for cross-stitch. It is composed of six strands and is easily separated. Typically 2 strands are used for making the x's and 1 strand is used for backstitching, but this is variable depending on the count of the cloth used.
Scissors:
Any pair of scissors will do, but as you progress passed the beginner stage, you may want to invest in a pair of embroidery scissors.
Hoop:
A hoop is used to keep your fabric tight as you are stitching. When not stitching, the fabric should be removed from the hoop, so that permanent folds and wrinkles do not form on the fabric.
Tapestry Needle:
Usually a size 24 tapestry needle is used for 14 count aida cloth, and a 26 sized tapestry needle is used for smaller count aida cloth.
Cross-stitch pattern chart or graph:
This is the graph or chart that has all the instructions for how to stitch the pattern. There are a variety of cross stitch patterns available, both for free and for a fee. Many cross-stitch charts are available online for downloading.
