How to Cross Stitch

A guide to basic cross-stitching, which is also known as "counted cross-stitch". The pictures show the method as worked on plastic canvas with yarn, to help you easily identify the technique.

Steps   [edit]

  1. Cut your fabric to the size suggested on your pattern and mark the center.
  2. Cut approximately one yard (91 cm) of thread. Embroidery thread comes in skeins of six strands per thread, so you will need to separate out one strand. Thread your needle so that the ends are equal.
  3. Starting at the top left of the stitch, bring the needle through from the bottom, holding the tail at the back of the thread. Leave about an inch (2.5 cm) on the back for an anchor.
  4. Bring the thread down to the lower right corner, then back up through the upper right and down through the lower left, forming an "X". Each time you should pull the thread all the way through so that it is flush with the fabric surface.
  5. Start your next stitch so it uses two of the same holes as this one.
  6. Repeat, making sure your stitches overlap your anchor thread on the back of the fabric.


Tips   [edit]

  • You can thread your needle with two strands and leave a loose end to allow you to more easily undo mistakes; be aware, however, that this makes it easier to accidentally pull your needle off the thread entirely.
  • Patterns are available for free in many places on the internet. You can also find software to design your own, such as PCStitch or EasyCross.
  • When there are multiple stitches of the same color in one row, make the first half of the stitches for that row first, then go back and cross them all. This will save time, save thread, and give the finished project a smoother look.


Warnings   [edit]

  • Avoid pulling your thread all the way through the fabric on the first stitch. You need to leave enough to anchor the stitches on the back, or the end will pull through to the front.
  • Always fill in large areas of your pattern first.
  • Make sure to keep track of where you are on your pattern to avoid errors. If you have difficulty keeping count, photocopy and color in your pattern as you go.


Things You'll Need   [edit]

  • Embroidery thread
  • A pattern
  • Tapestry needle (or any other needle)
  • Cross-stitch fabric