Cross stitch is pretty much America’s number one embroidery craft. It’s super easy to get into, and the best part is that it’s not going to break the bank – or give you a nervous breakdown. If you want to whip up some awesome handmade presents, add some personal touch to your living space, or simply try something new to take your mind off things, learning how to cross stitch is a whole lot easier than you think.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll teach you the ropes: what cross stitch is, the basic supplies you need, step-by-step instructions, some common mistakes to watch out for, a real-life example of a beginner who’s got it down, and the pros and cons of taking up cross stitch.
What is Cross Stitch Anyway?
Cross stitch is basically a type of embroidery where you use X’s to create patterns and pictures on some nice, even fabric. The design comes from a chart that tells you where to put the thread, which colour to use, and so on.
Cross stitch projects can be anything from:
- Flowers
- Animals
- Some inspiring quotes
- Holiday decorations
- Home decor
- Personalized gifts
- And loads more
Loads of people get started with cross stitch because it’s not that complicated – just a few basic tools and some simple stitching skills are all you need.
What You Need to Get Started with Cross Stitch
Before you begin, get these basic supplies together.
Cross Stitch Fabric
Aida cloth is the go-to for most beginners. This fabric has little square holes that make it easy to count your stitches.
You can get this in different sizes:
- 11-count Aida
- 14-count Aida
- 16-count Aida
Embroidery Floss
There are loads of colours to choose from, and DMC floss is a super popular brand in the States.
Embroidery Needle
Cross stitch needles have flat tips that stop them from splitting the threads when you stick them through the fabric.
Embroidery Hoop
This little hoop keeps your fabric tight so it doesn’t wrinkle up while you’re stitching.
Scissors
Tiny scissors are brilliant for cutting thread neatly.
Pattern
Your pattern will tell you all the colours and stitches you need to do for your design.
How to Cross Stitch in Easy Steps
Cross stitch is a doddle when you break it down into a few simple steps.
1 – Get Your Fabric Ready
Cut your fabric a bit bigger than your design so you’ve got some extra room to play with.
Don’t forget to leave a bit of extra around the edges so you can frame or finish your project properly.
Place the fabric in the embroidery hoop and tighten it up gently.
2 – Get Your Needle Threaded
Take two strands of embroidery floss and thread them on to your needle – most beginner patterns use just two strands.
Leave a short bit of tail so it doesn’t get tangled up.
3 – Find the Centre
Fold your fabric in half both ways to find the middle – it’s usually best to start stitching from the centre of your design to make sure it’s all lined up properly.
4 – Get Stitching
Bring the needle up and through one of the holes in the fabric, then stick it diagonally through the other hole to make half an X.
Bring it back the other way to complete the cross.
Make sure all your stitches go the same way so they all look neat.
5 – Follow Your Pattern
Use your chart to figure out where the next colour goes and how many stitches you need to do.
Take it one colour section at a time so you don’t get confused and make a mess.
6 – Finish the Thread
When you’ve finished with a colour, slide the thread under a few stitches on the back of the fabric and then snip the excess with your scissors.
Tips for Beginners
Learning is heaps easier if you start with some simple designs and gradually work your way up to the bigger stuff.
Use Small Patterns
Small projects give you confidence to keep going.
Get Some Good Lighting
If you can, work in good lighting so it doesn’t hurt your eyes and you can see what you’re doing.
Keep Your Stuff Organized
Use thread cards or a box to keep all your threads tidy so you can focus on stitching.
Don’t Rush
Cross stitch is all about relaxing and enjoying the process – don’t get stressed about it.
Common Cross Stitch Mistakes to Watch Out For
Even experienced stitchers can make mistakes sometimes.
Pulling the Thread Too Tight
If you pull the thread too tight, you can end up distorting the fabric.
Keep your tension even so your stitches turn out smooth and neat.
Using Too Many Thread Strands
Most beginners stick to using two strands of thread – using more can make your stitches all lumpy.
Not Paying Attention to Pattern Symbols
Always double-check your symbols and colours before you start stitching – don’t get halfway through a project and then find out you’ve made a mistake.
Inconsistent Stitch Direction
Make sure all your stitches slant the same way so your project looks pro – not all over the place.
Real Life Example
Sarah, a teacher from Texas, tried out cross stitch as a way to unwind after work. She started with a beginner kit that came with a sunflower design.
She spent about 30 minutes each evening stitching while listening to music, and after two weeks, she had finished her first project and even framed it for her living room.
Cross stitch has since become one of her favourite things to do – she loves making personalized gifts for her friends and family.
This example shows that beginners can pick it up fast and have a great time doing it without needing to be experts.
Awesome Cross Stitch Projects to Make
Cross stitch is perfect for loads of creative projects.
Home Decorations
Get some inspiration from these cool ideas:
- Wall art
- Pillows
- Table runners
- Seasonal decorations
- And loads more
Personalized Gifts
Handmade gifts are always special – try making:
- Baby name samplers
- Wedding gifts
- Birthday designs
- Family portraits
- And loads more
Holiday Projects
There are loads of cool cross stitch patterns for:
- Xmas ornaments
- Halloween decorations
- Easter gifts
- Pros and Cons of Cross Stitch
Like practically any hobby, cross stitch has its share of pluses and minuses.
What We Love About Cross Stitch
Easy to Get Started
You don’t need to be a seasoned crafter to pick up cross stitch – its pretty straightforward.
Super Affordable
You can get started with the basics for hardly any money, and supplies are easy to find.
Great Stress Relief
Stitching can be super calming and enjoyable for many people.
Endless Options
There are thousands of patterns out there to choose from, whether you’re looking online or in a store.
Handmade Gifts Rock
Finished projects make awesome, personalized gifts that people really appreciate.
Some Challenges We Face
Takes a Lot of Time
Big projects can take weeks or even months to finish.
Requires Some Patience
Cross stitch needs careful counting and attention to detail, and mistakes can be a real bummer.
Eye Strain is a Thing
Long stitching sessions can make your eyes feel pretty tired.
Fixing Mistakes Can Be a Pain
If you make a mistake, it can sometimes mean pulling out several rows of stitches.
You Need Some Space
Threads, fabric and all those supplies need a bit of organization to keep them from getting the better of you.
Tips for Getting Better at Cross Stitch
Start Simple
Begin with some easy patterns – they’re easier to nail.
Get Your Threads Together
Using floss organizers will definitely keep those threads from getting all tangled up.
Wash Up Before Stitching
Clean hands can mean a brighter, stain-free finish.
Store Your Projects Properly
Keep unfinished projects out of the way of dust and sunlight.
Use Good Quality Supplies
Good fabric and thread make all the difference in the end result.
Why Cross Stitch Keeps On Going
Cross stitch has been a favorite for generations because it combines creativity with relaxation.
Lots of people enjoy things like:
- Making handmade decorations
- Creating personalized gifts
- Relieving stress and finding calm
- Learning new crafting skills and techniques
- Sharing projects with family and friends
And because of online communities and modern patterns, cross stitch keeps on drawing in beginners and experienced crafters alike.
Conclusion
The thing is, learning to cross stitch isn’t as intimidating as you might think. With a few basic supplies and some simple techniques, anyone can make some beautiful, handmade designs. Whether you want a hobby to relax to, a way to express yourself creatively or a way to make personalized gifts, cross stitch has a lot to offer.