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Readers Respond: Cross Stitch Tips for Stitching on Dark Fabric

Responses: 7

By Connie G. Barwick, About.com

Have you stitched on dark fabric? Got any great secrets for success with dark blue and black Aida and linen fabric? Add your tips for stitching on dark fabric below. Share Your Tips / Tricks

Stitchin on Dark Fabric

I put my white pillowcased bed pillow on my lap and find it much easier to see the holes. Also a nice place to rest my work and arms as I stitch.
—Guest Annie

White Light

I have a Verilux floor lamp that provides a more natural, daylight type-light than typical reading lamps. That makes it easier for me.
—Guest Judy

Daisy's Black Fabric Tip

I always use a white piece of paper on my lap with my overhead lamp, I can see the holes and don't have any problems. Hope this helps.
—Guest Karen Barnwell

Stitching on Black Fabric

I stitched a colorful pastel pillow top on black Aida, and it certainly is more difficult to see with the dark background. It's perhaps even more difficult when you need reading glasses for close work, as I do. What worked best for me was to stitch in fairly bright natural light and take my time. I didn't rush through the project, but worked on it steadily under I was finally done. With other craft projects I've done, I have noticed that a strong natural light seems to work better for me than working under artificial light, but I probably didn't have the proper artificial lighting.
—Guest Eva

I LOVE The Look!

I actually do what you recommend, so I don't have any other tips on actually doing the stitching, but I have to say that I LOVE the look of bright colors on dark blue fabric. I tend to choose the brightest yellows, oranges,and reds I can find (with a few other colors as accents) and the effect is stunning. Thanks for offering us all help with creating this amazing look!
—Guest Elizabeth

Stitch in Natural Sunlight

I think it's easiest to see the weave when I stitch in natural light. In the summertime, it's really pleasant to sit outside with my cross stitch. In the winter, I try to sit by the window when I'm working with difficult-to-see fabric.
—Guest Sandra

Head Torch

I use a head torch - admittedly it gives family and friends no end of amusement seeing me sat there looking like a miner - however it works really well for me! The bright light and the angle really helps me pick up hard to find stitches!
—Rubber_Stamping

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Cross Stitch Tips for Stitching on Dark Fabric

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