|
We have put together this guide to show you how to do Cross Stitch. We hope it helps to make your projects quicker and easier to complete. Should you have any comments, suggestions or improvements we could make to our How To guides please contact us.
What is Cross Stitch?
Cross-stitch is a popular form of counted-thread embroidery in which X-shaped stitches are used to form a picture. Cross-stitch is usually executed on easily countable evenweave fabric. The stitcher counts the threads in each direction so that the stitches are of uniform size and appearance. This form of cross-stitch is also called counted cross-stitch in order to distinguish it from other forms of cross-stitch. Sometimes cross-stitch is done on designs printed on the fabric (stamped cross-stitch); the stitcher simply stitches over the printed pattern.
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. 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.
Maries tip:- How to start a new thread. Cut the length of thread that you want not too long. Fold the thread in half and thread the needle with the two cut ends. Bring the needle up the back of the fabric in the bottom left hand corner of the stitch you want to complete. When you are half way through the fabric put the needle back through the top right hand hole, turn over your fabric and there will be a loop at the other end of the thread. Now put the needle through the loop and pull, this will secure the thread in place. You can now carry on stitching.
Stitching
There are two methods.
The first method (Step 1) is to work a row of half stitches (////), then work back (\\\\) to complete the X's. Use this method for most stitching.
The second method (Step 2) is to complete each X as you go. Use this method for vertical rows of stitches. It is important that all the X's 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.
|
