Cross Stitch Basics
From Connie G. Barwick, former About.com Guide
- Learn to Cross Stitch
- Five Basic Stitches Used in Cross Stitch Embroidery
- Fabrics and Stitching Surfaces
- Needles and Accessories
- Tools and Lighting
- Interpreting Patterns
- Stitching Techniques
- Suggested Patterns for Beginning Stitchers
- FAQs and Tips
- Learn the Lingo - Glossary
- Using Supplies
- Organizing Supplies
- Flosses and Fibers
- Embroidery Hoops and Needlework Frames
Learn to Cross Stitch
Follow the steps in these photo tutorials to learn the basic skills used in Cross Stitch embroidery. Information is provided in each lesson about the supplies needed.
- Stitch Your First Cross Stitch
- Stitch a Row of Cross Stitch
- Stitch a Block of Cross Stitch
- Stitch a Cross Stitch Colorblock
- Choose Basic Cross Stitch Supplies
- Learn to Back Stitch
- Learn to Stitch a Row of Half Stitches
- Stitch a Column of Cross Stitch
Five Basic Stitches Used in Cross Stitch Embroidery
Cross Stitch Embroidery is the style of embroidery based on the cross stitch, an x-shaped stitch.
Fabrics and Stitching Surfaces
A wide range of fabrics and other stitching surfaces may be used for Cross Stitch.
- Aida Fabric
- Caring for Aida Fabric
- Start a Stitch On Linen
- Waste Canvas
- Tips for Using Waste Canvas
- Plastic Canvas
- Prepare the Edge of Fabric Before Stitching
- Vinyl Aida
- Cross Stitch Fabric Calculator
- Perforated Paper
- Secure Floss With a Loop
- Change the Color of Fabrics
Needles and Accessories
The basic needle used in Cross Stitch is the tapestry needle. As your skills progress, however, you may find that adding a few special needles to your tool-kit is beneficial for your stitching projects.
- All About Cross Stitch Needles
- Do You Use a Thimble? Vote in the Poll and Let Us Know
- Petite Cross Stitch Needles
- Needles and Metal Allergies - Join the Discussion in the Cross Stitch Forum
- Tips About Needles
- Simple Needle Organizer
Tools and Lighting
These handy tools and gadgets will help make stitching easier and more enjoyable.
Interpreting Patterns
One of the basic skills necessary to Cross Stitch embroidery is learning to read a pattern.
- Read a Cross Stitch Pattern - Overview
- Read a Cross Stitch Pattern - Two Symbols in a Square
- What do these numbers - 140w by 63h - mean on a Cross Stitch chart?
Stitching Techniques
Beyond the basic skills, developing more specialized techniques and stitching methods leads to more successful projects.
- Stab and Sew Cross Stitch Methods
- Railroading Stitches
- Keep Your Place While Stitching Using Gridding
- Use a Waste Knot to Start a Stitch
Suggested Patterns for Beginning Stitchers
These patterns are perfect for a novice stitcher who is learning to Cross Stitch.
- Simple Cross Stitch Designs
- Patterns for Beginners - Practice the Five Basic Stitches
- Find More Free Patterns - A-Z Index of all Patterns at About.com Cross Stitch
FAQs and Tips
Common questions asked by stitchers from beginners to advanced and tips submitted by stitchers that offer solutions to common stitching issues. If you have a question about Cross Stitch or a related embroidery style, get the help you need by asking a question in the About.com Cross Stitch Forum. Or, email the About.com Cross Stitch Guide at crossstitch@aboutguide.com.
- How do I convert Linen to Aida?
- Should Floss Be Rinsed Before Stitching?
- What do these numbers - 140w by 63h - mean on a Cross Stitch chart?
- What Do Two Symbols in a Square on a Pattern Mean?
- Cross Stitch Tips Submitted by About.com Cross Stitch Members
- Submit a Cross Stitch Tip
- Post a Question in the About.com Cross Stitch Forum
Learn the Lingo - Glossary
Definitions of basic cross stitch terms clarify confusion for novice cross stitchers.
Using Supplies
Get ready to stitch by learning how to prepare and use Cross Stitch supplies.
- How to Separate Strands of Embroidery Floss
- How to Put Fabric in an Embroidery Hoop
- How to Put Fabric in a Ratchet Frame
- Quick and Easy Method for Finding the Center of Aida Fabric
Organizing Supplies
Keep your supplies organized. Not only will proper storage protect your stitching possessions, but it will also help you make more time for stitching.
- Simple Floss Organizer for Cross Stitch Kits and Projects
- Make Your Own Floss Storage System
- Bobbin Floss Storage System
- Bag Floss Storage Systems
Flosses and Fibers
Flosses and fibers put the fun in Cross Stitch. There is such a wide variety - from the sturdy standby, cotton embroidery floss, to specialty fibers such as silk, overdyed cottons, rayon, wool, and more.
- DMC Embroidery Floss
- J & P Coats Six-Strand Embroidery Floss
- Floss Conversion Charts
- Specialty Flosses and Fibers
Embroidery Hoops and Needlework Frames
Hoops and Frames are used to help maintain even tension on fabric.