Before you start stitching, let's cover a few basic techniques. Learning these fundamentals will help you understand how to cross stitch and create patterns.
materials
Cross stitch uses very little equipment, and most of it is reusable from project to project. Here's what each piece does and what to look for when you're buying your first set.
preparation
Locate the end of the floss sticking out of the skein and, with the label still attached, slowly pull it out and cut a 50cm (20in) length.
Separate the strands one at a time, then realign the number you need. Separating them first gives the thread more body and helps prevent knotting while stitching.
Fold your thread a short distance from the end, then insert the needle's end between the two layers of the fold. Press the needle against the fold to create a crease.
Pass the folded end through the eye of the needle.
Look for the holes in the Aida fabric — they form a perfect grid. Each hole is where your needle will pass through.
From the back, push your needle up through a hole where you want your first stitch to begin. Pull the thread until only a small tail remains on the back.
With the needle now at the front of the fabric, pull it down through the hole diagonally opposite (hole 2) to create your first half-stitch.
Bring the needle back up through hole 3 (diagonally adjacent to hole 2) and pull it through.
Complete your first X by pushing the needle down through hole 4 (diagonally opposite to hole 3). You've just made your first cross stitch!
Pull the thread gently but firmly — not too tight, not too loose. Your stitch should lay flat against the fabric.
Check the back of your fabric. The thread tail should be caught under the stitch, locking it in place.
You're now ready to continue stitching! Work your next stitch the same way, keeping consistent tension.
When you're nearing the end of your thread (leave about 5-7cm / 2-3in), it's time to finish it off.
Turn your work to the back (wrong side). Pass your needle under 4-5 completed stitches on the back, weaving it through the existing threads.
Pull the thread through gently — the friction from the surrounding stitches will hold it in place.
Trim the excess thread close to the fabric with your scissors. The tail is now securely anchored and invisible from the front.
try it
The photos to the right show the difference between using one and two strands of floss to stitch the same design. It's also worth noting that even if the same number of strands are used, the finished appearance of the design will change if the fabric count is different.