Working with Dark-Colored Cross Stitch Fabric
Sunday January 7, 2007
In a recent email, Judi wrote:"Please help me. I am trying to work with black 14-count Aida. The black is so hard to work with and I am not sure how to begin. I found the center of the canvas and now I am trying to cross stitch with a pattern. I know there must be an easy way, but I don't have a clue. I would really appreciate your assistance."
I offered Judi some tips for working with dark colored fabric. Patience is one key to success!
Do you have any tips to add? What have you learned about working with black or dark colored Cross Stitch fabric? Use the comment button below to post your secrets for successful projects on dark fabric.
Photo © 2007 Connie G. Thomas, licensed to About.com, Inc.
Comments
To see where the holes are, put a lamp underneath work facing upwards and light up the holes. You then can see where your needle needs to go!
The other tip is to definitely grid the fabric with a light coloured thread. I worked a wolf picture on black aida and just about went nuts until I managed to find a way to uplight the back so the holes showed up in tiny pinpoints of light. I don’t find the lap lights work for me, since I don’t work bent over my lap, with the project down there, I work with mine more upright and in front of my face. So getting the right back light set up is really important and depends on how you stitch.
I found that placing a white cloth on my lap so that it was under the dark canvas helped to show the holes
I am currently stitching a beautiful design on black 16 ct Aida and it can be a pain… in the eyes. I use a large square of white fabric and lay it on my lap but sometimes that’s not enough. My trick is to have a lamp nearby shine down on the white fabric in my lap which illuminates it and makes it brighter since white reflects light. Then if I stitch into the evening, it’s still easy to see the holes in the fabric. Also, sometimes when my eyes get tired I will use a magnifier since I already wear glasses. It helps with focusing and lets me stitch longer. Of course, breaks are essential.
I have to sew an evening bag (A4 size) using 18ct black Aida with dark blue and copper colour Czech cut seed beads. I find it difficult to see the holes. Please advise on how to make it easier to sew.
Thank you.
For your evening bag project, I would definitely suggest in using a light under the fabric. And taking your time and resting your eyes frequently. I am sure the finished project will be worth the effort though.