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Learning How To Cross Stitch Can Be Fun And Easy
Basic Stitching
There are three basic stitches, when it comes to cross stitching. The main aim is to form an "x" pattern. This can easily be done by placing the needle on the underside of the fabric. Pull the needle and thread (floss) through, but do not tie a knot on the end of the floss. Once the stitch is through, hold it with your finger, to keep it in place. Next, simply repeat the process.
It is a simple matter to make half and quarter stitches. To make a half stitch, start in the manner that you do to make "x" patterns, but stop before making the "x". Quarter stitches are half stitches that are about half the normal size. The variance in stitches gives you more versatility with your designs.
Supplies Needed
Patterns that you use in projects are called graphs, and there are a number of different patterns that you may choose from. Fabric used is not ordinary fabric, but known as evenweave. This fabric is made just for cross stitching projects, and the easiest fabric for beginners is 14 thread count.
For your stitching, tapestry needles should be used. These needles have blunt points and very large eyes, and are perfect for the kind of stitching that you are doing. Best sizes are usually 26 or 24.
The other tools that you need are scissors, embroidering hoops and floss. Most floss is six stranded thread, but most of the time, you will only need to use two. For projects that require thinner fabric, you may need to use only one strand. Buy an embroidery hoop, as this works very well for holding your project in place. Remove the hoop when not working, to avoid hoop marks. Any good scissors will work, but buy embroidery scissors, if you are serious about your craft.
Summary
If you are interested in learning how to cross stitch, you will need fabric, hoop, needles, floss, graphs, and scissors. Basic stitches are made to form an "x" pattern. For half stitches, make half of an "x". Quarter stitches are made from partial half stitches. If you need more information, there are plenty of instructional videos and articles available on the Internet, free of charge.
Article submitted Saturday, July 23, 2011 & read 16 times.
Joanne Thambyah loves sharing her passion for Oolong Tea. Check out What is Oolong Tea for more information.
Having many years of creating cross stitch pieces, taught by her mother and now teaching her children, Joanne Thambyah loves this relaxing and enjoyable needlecraft. From brooches and bookmarks to wedding and birth samplers, cross stitch has provided her with years of joy and many more to come. Cross stitch basics, useful tips and other cross stitch resources are available at Easy Cross Stitch Patterns
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