Cross Stitch Patterns & Instructional Media

Creating Your First Cross-Stitch Pattern

If you are looking for a fun, low-cost project that you can easily complete at home or on the go, then cross-stitch may be the perfect activity for you. Cross-stitch requires only a few basic stitches that you can easily master. The few supplies that you will need can easily be obtained. You will have hours of fun completing your masterpiece and be able to proclaim proudly that you made it yourself.

There are two different types of cross-stitch patterns available. Black-and-white charts have a different symbol for each color of embroidery thread that you will need to complete your project. They are usually easier to read than color charts because it is easier to see the shading. Since this is your first project, try to choose one that has a limited number of colors, as it will be easier to complete.

You can find all types of cross-stitch patterns. For your first project, you might want to choose a small one with a simple design. Select a project that takes a 14-count fabric that is easy to work with.

Possibilities for themes include:

• Holidays
• Animals and insects
• Babies and children
• Flowers and plants
• Landscapes and seascapes
• Religious
• Antiques and history
• Fantasy and magic
• Cross-stitch sampler

If you do not purchase a cross-stitch kit, you will need some other necessary supplies after you choose your pattern. These include:

• Fabric – Cross-stitch is done on Aida cloth. Look at your pattern and see what count of cloth you need, as the count tells you how many squares there are per inch. If you buy fabric with the wrong count, it will affect the size of your finished project.
• Floss – Your cross-stitch pattern will tell you the number of skeins you need of each color. Buy enough at one time. Otherwise, there could be subtle differences in lots that would show up in your finished work.
• Needles – You need a size 26 needle for 14-count fabric. If your fabric has a larger count, then increase the needle size slightly. If it has a smaller count, then decrease the number slightly.
• Scissors – You need sharp scissors to cut the floss. Never break the floss, as it will make your stitches look uneven.
• Hoop – You need an embroidery hoop to hold your project. Large hoops are more comfortable to hold than smaller ones.

There are some tips for reading a cross-stitch pattern that will make it easy to complete your project. These include:

1. Make a photocopy of your pattern from the pattern booklet.
2. Always start in the middle.
3. Place a row of highlighter tape across the row on the chart that you are working on.
4. Use a pencil to mark off where you have finished working.
5. Fix your mistakes as soon as you find them.