From Connie G. Thomas,
Your Guide to Cross-Stitch.
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When stitching a large Cross Stitch project, one of the biggest frustrations is caused by making mistakes in placing stitches. One part of the design will end up being one space off. A row missed here will cause another part of the design to be askew.

To help avoid misplaced stitches, many stitchers baste a grid on the fabric that matches the 10x10 grid used for most Cross Stitch patterns.

Tips for successful gridding:

• Use a light-colored floss that will not leave fuzz or mar the fabric to create the grid. Many stitchers use quilting thread or silk floss. Another option is to use a product such as Easy Count Guideline that is specifically designed for gridding fabric.
• Make the grid as elaborate or as simple as you need. Mark the corners as shown in the graphic here or add more definition to the 10x10 box. You may even choose to grid your design in 5x5 boxes.
• Match the grid on your fabric to the grid on the pattern. If the pattern does not have a grid, place it in sheet protector and mark your own grid with a pencil or highlighter. (Take care not to get the marker on your fabric.)
• Some stitchers use a water soluble pen to mark the grid on fabric. Be very careful if you use this method. The pen may not all wash out. It may also fade over time if you are stitching a larger project.
• When removing gridding floss, use sharp scissors to snip away any strands of the grid which may have been pierced as you stitched.

Do you have a great tip about gridding Cross Stitch Fabric? Use the Cross Stitch Tip Submission Form to submit your Cross Stitch tips and share your experience with other stitchers.