How to Read a Cross Stitch Pattern - Understand a Cross Stitch Pattern

The first image is an enhanced version of the free Tiny Heart Cross Stitch pattern. Several elements make up a Cross Stitch Pattern. There is a grid made up of tiny squares. Each tiny square on the grid represents a square of Aida fabric, as shown in the third image.

Grid lines are darker in 10 x10 sections to make reading the pattern, counting the stitches, and keeping your place much easier. Some stitchers choose to mark their fabric according to the grid lines on the pattern with a water soluble marking pen.

The pattern also has arrows to indicate the center of the design.

In the grid, there are colors and symbols. These colors and symbols represent a certain color of embroidery floss. Some patterns use symbols only and are printed in black and white.

The key, as show in the second image, decodes the pattern. This key is very simple, listing the symbol, the number of strands used for a stitch, the type of floss used and the corresponding number of the color. The other symbols in the pattern such as the half squares, the outlines, and the blue dots represent quarter stitches, outline stitches, and French knots. This would be described in another part of the key, not shown.

Many times, the pattern also gives information about the publisher, the designer, and provides a stitched model of the finished project.

The size of the finished design on certain fabric counts is also generally provided. It is very important to not that the size given is the size of the finished design, not the size you should cut your fabric. Always increase the design size by three to six inches all the way around when cutting the fabric for a new project.

• Two Symbols in a Square on a Pattern
• Cross Stitch Design Dimensions
• Blended Needle
• Finished Design Size
• Finished Design Size Calculator