Cross-stitching is a method of embroidery that uses cross-shaped stitches to form patterns. Cross stitch kits typically consist of an embroidery pattern printed onto a card or fabric, thread (or floss) that will show you which colours to use for each section of the design and how many stitches to make for each colour. Using these instructions is relatively straightforward once you get the hang of it! Read on for more information on cross-stitching for beginners.
What is cross-stitching?
Cross-stitching involves stitching small Xs in a grid pattern on cloth or paper. The stitches are made by creating a row of Xs and then filling them in with colour. Cross-stitching is easy and relaxing, making it a great way to spend time with family and friends or express creativity.
How to read a cross-stitch chart
Once your pattern is laid out on the cloth, you need to connect the symbols. For example, if you see a sign of a cross with a dot in it and another sign that looks like an asterisk, you should go from one side of your cloth to the other, crossing over at each dot. To make this easy for yourself, use coloured pencils or pens to mark off where each symbol goes on your chart so that when it comes time for stitching, it will be evident which parts should go together.
Once all those connections have been made, and all threads have been threaded onto their respective needles (more on this later), use those same coloured markings as guides while stitching so that they don’t get lost amidst all else happening during an embroidery project!
How to find the centre of your cloth?
It’s always helpful to find the centre of your cloth so you know where to start your cross stitch. The best way to find the middle is by counting stitches along both sides of your cloth:
a) Count the number of stitches from one side to another (for example, from left to right corner). This will be your first number.
b) Count again from the top corner down and then the bottom corner up (repeat this for all four corners for a total of 4 numbers, one at each corner). These will be your last two numbers.
c) Divide these numbers by 2 to get an average.
Example: If there are 20 stitches across on my fabric, then you should divide 20 by 2, which gives you 10 stitches in between your corners’ edges; therefore, that would mean there are 10 stitches in between each side edge (each side edge being 10″ x 10″). Therefore your centre point is located at 5″.
Matching your fabric to the design.
You will also need to consider a few details about your fabric.
● Fabric colour: Is the design printed in white or black? The stitches will appear much more clearly if you’re stitching over a dark colour.
● Fabric type: Cross stitching can be done on different fibres such as cotton, linen, silk and rayon, to name a few. Your local needlework shop may sell speciality fibres for cross stitch, which are better suited for your project than others.
● Fabric size: If you’re using a kit that includes pre-cut pieces of fabric, then you can use it without worrying about the size.
What to consider while Buying Cross Stitch Kits
● The quality of the thread is important if you are looking for a long-lasting, high-quality product in cross stitch kits.
● You should also consider the design as well as the cloth material that’s included in the kit. If you choose something too intricate or difficult to stitch, it may not turn out well, and you won’t enjoy working on it.
● Look at the size of your chosen pattern before buying a kit so there aren’t any surprises when it arrives in your mailbox!
● Finally, consider how much money is spent on each item so that you can get exactly what fits into your budget without breaking the bank!
