Cross-stitching is very old type of embroidery. Although it really flourished in folk art designs where geometric and floral patterns were used to embellish household items. Today it is one of the most popular forms of embroidery, mainly because it has so many designs today and very easy to learn. There are two kinds of cross-stitching: counted cross-stitch and stamped cross-stitch. Counted cross stitch is worked on unprinted even-weave fabrics, with Aida and linen. Generally using cotton embroidery floss, the stitcher forms X’s by taking the needle and floss through the holes woven into the fabric. Fabric could have different colors and hole sizes.
Stamped cross stitch is similar to counted cross stitch in that X’s are already formed on the fabric. However, in stamped cross stitch, the X’s are printed on a tightly woven fabric and the stitcher forms the stitches by working over the printed X’s. Stamped cross-stitch is also popular but mostly in tablecloths, pillow-cases, baby bibs.
How to start your cross-stitch project:
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. Separate these out into the correct number of strands (the right amount is indicated in your design) for stitching. The floss key shows which shade of cotton to use for each symbol on the chart.
Single cross-stitch.
Please check the picture of this stitch.
How to work a row of cross-stitches:
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 color with long runs of thread at the back of the work. That could cause ugly shades at the front of your work and also you could be 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.
Half-stitch
Please check the picture of this stitch.
Three-quarters stitch
Please check the picture of this stitch.
Quarter stitch
Please check the picture of this stitch.
