Cross Stitch Quick Start Guide for Beginners
To help new cross-stitchers, I wanted to create a tutorial and a video series. It will take some time, but I have created a quick-start guide anyone can use. Here are the top tips for getting you started with your first patterns. To jump to the appropriate section, click on the table. If you have ever done cross stitch but need some refresher information, this will also work. Enjoy!
What's a cross stitch?
Cross stitch, a type of counted-thread embroidery, is one of the most simple forms of embroidery. It consists primarily of X-shaped stitch done on fabric with an even, open weave such as Aida or linen. The grid is a lot more like a grid. There are more advanced stitches, which we won't cover in this beginner tutorial. You can choose from traditional designs or modern ones. Cross stitch embroidery has a interestinghistory. You can find out more about Tinkering Belles podcast -- I was there!
Cross stitch kits for beginners are now available. However, you can also buy basic supplies (listed below), to make a pattern that you purchased or downloaded from my website.
Cross stitch is a simple technique that can be learned by following the guide below.
Gather Your Materials
Cross stitching, like most DIYs has a supply list. These supplies can be used in almost every pattern, so I have listed them below. Other craft supplies may not always be necessary but are nice to have.
Always necessary
Pattern -- This chart shows the design and instructions. You can either create your own pattern, or choose from the many available in my library. Many are free and perfect to beginners. Plus, you can join my membership site to get even more patterns! Learn more about how to read charts further down.
Frame for embroidery hoop -- In order to stitch correctly and keep the fabric from bunching when you pull on it, you will need to keep the fabric taught. An embroidery hoop is what I use 100% of the time. However, some people prefer to use a frame or a lap stand. The purpose of the embroidery hoop is the same regardless of how you use it.
Needles Decorative stitching such as needlepoint and tapestries requires blunt-ended needles. They won't poke your fingers if you touch them accidentally and have an "eye" that allows you to slip the thread through. I've used sharp-pointed sewing needles. To find the right one for you, you can order an assortment such as this.
Cloth -- This cloth is most commonly Aida cloth, which is designed for cross stitch. However, it can also be linen or any other cloth with a weave. A 14 size is recommended. This refers to how many cross stitches are per inch. 16-18 and higher numbers mean smaller stitches. This means that even though a pattern is intended for 14 it will work on an 18-inch cloth. The overall pattern will be smaller because more stitches can fit in a smaller space. Evenweave fabric is even more thread-count than Aida but can be frustrating or difficult to sew. Cloth is available in many colors so you can be creative!
How do I read a cross stitch pattern or chart
Cross stitch patterns often have a chart that charts the entire design. The legend also includes a "color key" (or legend) that contains symbols for each color as well as the number code and name of each color. It also shows the total yardage per color. The colors are often specific to a brand, with DMC the most common (but not always). You can easily count the number stitches by marking the graph in groups of 10, counted crossing stitch. There is also an arrow at both the top and sides of the graph that indicates the center, in case you wish to work inwards. This is a popular choice for experienced and beginner stitchers. Some patterns come in color charts, which allow you to better visualize the finished piece and keep track of your progress. I have started adding color charts to all my patterns, and will continue to add to older ones.
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Prepare the Fabric
To keep your fabric looking nice and smooth, iron it. Aida fabric comes in tubes to prevent wrinkles and creases. It's best to not fold your fabric when you are storing it between days that you are working on it.
The ends of woven fabrics can fray. There are a few ways to prevent this from happening. 2) Use a serger or zigzag stitch to create a border around the edge.
Stretch the fabric in an embroidery frame or hoop to keep it taut. The embroidery hoops are very simple to use. Simply loosen the metal clasp until the top is loose. Next, sandwich the fabric between both the top and bottom hoops. The top should be pushed around the bottom hoop. Secure the fabric between them. As you tighten the clasp, pull the fabric inwards. Pull, tighten, pull, tighten. You want the fabric to be snug so it doesn't stretch when you pull it through. Because it tends to get looser with time, I like to tighten my threads as I stitch.
Make the Thread and Needle
My patterns use DMC floss colors. They are designed to take 2 strands of DMC floss per stitch. A skein of floss comes in six strands, which you will need to separate. I cut about my elbow length to my fingertips. This is a manageable length that doesn’t increase the number of knots and doesn’t get too long.
Once you have your thread prepared, slide one end through the eye. The size of the needle will depend on the fabric you are using. You don't want the needle to stretch the holes when you stitch.
How to Start Your First Row
The majority of stitches shown on charts are full cross stitches. Most beginners start with them, so we'll be focusing our attention first.
My grandmother taught me how to start my first row. I choose a row using the same color thread, pull the first thread through the hole in the fabric and leave about 2 inches as a tail. When I start my first stitches, I ensure that the tail is secured along the back of the row. I secure the thread end as I stitch along. So, no knots required!
Is it possible to make complete stitches?
Yes, it may be, but in certain places it might be easier. For example, if one color is scattered throughout the pattern. But, I think my finished pattern looks better if I stitch in rows.
How to Change Colors
Some people like to select a section of their piece and then stitch it with every color. Some people go row-by-row, which is the best way to switch colors IMO. Although I am a bit scattered, I prefer to use all colors before switching to the next.
I switch colors by flipping the piece to the back. I run my threaded needle along the back of each row until the tail is caught between the stitches. This is similar to starting the first stitch. So that nothing shows through the fabric onto my front, I try to use similar colors. ).
Finishing Your Project
Displaying patterns is easy when you keep the piece of stitched inside a wooden hooped. However, you will need to continue buying new embroidery hoops. This is how to finish your pattern. Pull the pattern up so it looks like you want it when hanging on the wall. Cut off any excess fabric. To keep the fabric tight, stitch these ends together. Hang.