Learn the Basics of Counted Cross Stitch: A Step-by-Step Guide

Counted cross stitch is a form of hand embroidery that's simple to learn and incredibly satisfying to master. At its core, it involves counting the threads of the fabric and following a pattern grid to create vivid images and designs. With this precise method, even beginners can produce professional-looking work that ranges from simple patterns to intricate tapestries.

Our approach begins with selecting the appropriate materials. Understanding the variety of needles, thread types, and fabrics is crucial for achieving the best results. Your cross-stitch journey will be more enjoyable if you start with the right tools. It’s important not to rush the process; take time to familiarise yourself with each element and how they interact.

As we progress into the stitching phase, patience and precision are key. The first stitch might seem challenging, but as we advance, each subsequent stitch becomes more intuitive. By adhering to the pattern and maintaining consistent tension, the image slowly emerges, stitch by stitch, into a work of art.

Key Takeaways

  • Counted cross stitch is accessible for beginners and offers a pathway to elaborate creations.
  • Selecting proper materials is essential for a successful cross stitch project.
  • Mastering the basic stitches forms the foundation for more complex designs.

Choosing Your Cross Stitch Supplies

Before we start our project, it's crucial to select the right materials. Our success in cross stitch hinges on the proper fabric, needles, and floss, so let's ensure we understand what we need.

Understanding Fabric Count

When we talk about fabric count in cross stitch, we're referring to the number of stitches per inch (2.54 cm) of fabric. The common choices are:

  • 14-count aida, which is great for beginners.
  • 18-count aida, offering more detail but can be more challenging.

Always remember, the higher the count, the smaller our stitches will be.

Needles, Needles, Neediles

For a hassle-free stitching experience, choose the correct needle size:

  • Size 24 needles are perfect for 14-count aida.
  • Size 28 needles are better suited for 18-count aida.

Make sure to use a rounded tip or 'tapestry' needle to avoid splitting the thread or damaging the fabric.

Make Sure You Understand Floss

The embroidery floss is made up of six strands, and we usually use two strands for the best coverage on the fabric. Here's how to choose the right floss:

  • DMC Brand: Known for its quality and wide range of colours.
  • Anchor Brand: Another reliable option with a rich palette of colours.

Ensure your floss is colourfast to prevent any colour bleeding during the washing process.

Stitching Your First Cross Stitch

Before we start, it's essential to understand that cross stitch is a form of counted thread embroidery where X-shaped stitches are made in a tiled pattern to form a picture. We begin with the basics: creating your first stitch, reading patterns, and completing your first project.

Your First Stitch

To make your first cross stitch, follow these steps:

  1. Prepare your fabric: We use evenweave fabric, holding it taut in an embroidery hoop.
  2. Thread the needle: Cut a length of embroidery floss about 45 centimetres long and separate it into strands as recommended by your pattern. Thread your needle with the appropriate number of strands.
  3. Find the centre: Fold your fabric in half twice to find the centre. This is where you will begin.
  4. Start from the back: Bring your needle up from the back of the fabric at the lower left corner of what will be your first cross stitch.
  5. Create the first half of the stitch: Insert the needle at the upper right corner of the same square.
  6. Complete the stitch: Bring the needle up again at the lower right corner and down at the upper left, forming an X.

Remember, all our stitches should be the same size for a neat finish.

Reading Cross Stitch Patterns

Cross stitch patterns are a grid of small squares, each representing one block of the fabric's weave. Here's how we read them:

  • Symbols: Each square on the pattern contains symbols that correspond to a specific colour of thread.
  • Colour Key: Accompanies the pattern, indicating which symbol matches which colour.
  • Arrows: Identify the centre of the pattern, which should align with the centre of your fabric.
  • Gridlines: Typically represent 10x10 blocks of stitches for easy counting.

Patterns may also contain backstitch lines for outlines or detail, which are usually represented by straight lines with arrows indicating the direction of the stitch.

Your First Cross Stitch Pattern

We'll start with a simple design:

  • Choose a small pattern with a limited colour palette.
  • Identify and thread the colour you will use first according to the pattern's colour key.
  • Begin at the centre of your fabric, matching it to the centre of the pattern.
  • Count the squares on the pattern and fabric to ensure accuracy.
  • Stitch in rows or columns, completing each cross stitch before moving on to the next.

Following these guidelines will help us complete our first cross stitch project successfully.