- Use a crewel needle instead of a tapestry needle. The sharp point of the crewel needle will pierce fabric more easily while the eye of the crewel needle is still large enough to accommodate embroidery floss.
- Baste a piece of interfacing on the back of the fabric for additional support. Use a soft interfacing such as that used for machine embroidery if the item will be worn next to your skin.
- Stitches should "hold hands." There should not be gaps or spaces between stitches.
- Stitch into the middle of the square formed by the grid of the waste canvas. Keep the stitches uniform in size. This will be a little more difficult with waste canvas since the space between the grids can be fairly large, especially larger count canvas.
- Take your time when stitching on waste canvas. Position your stitches carefully for a better looking finished project.
- The canvas should be moistened, not doused, with water. Too much water sometimes makes it more difficult to remove the grids.
Cross Stitch Tips - Working with Waste Canvas
Tips for Working with Waste Canvas to make Stitching Easier and Enjoyable
By Connie G. Barwick, About.com Guide
Waste Canvas
Photo © Connie G. Barwick, licensed to About.com, Inc.
Tips for working with waste canvas:
Readers Respond: Working with Waste Canvas for Cross Stitch Projects
Helpful Cross Stitch Information
Explore Cross-Stitch
Must Reads
About.com Special Features
Holiday Central
What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >
Scrapbook Technique Gallery
Use these ideas to inspire your own uniquely beautiful pages. More >
©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.
All rights reserved.