The Complete Guide to Cross Stitch, Patterns, & Helpful Tutorials
Everyday I get thousands of visitors looking at my free cross stitch patterns, a lot of them are suitable for beginners but if you’re new to this creative craft it can seem overwhelming. So that’s why I decided to write this complete guide to cross stitch, patterns and guide you to some helpful tutorials.
What is Cross Stitch?
Cross stitch is a form of embroidery that is stitched on even weave fabrics. (Those that have threads running regularly in both warp and weft giving a square formation to the gaps between the fabric threads) Fabrics such as aida and linen are popular choices.
The embroidery is formed of two over lapping diagonal stiches, the bottom arm slating from left to right and the top arm slanting from right to left forming the cross shape.
In addition to the crosses, back stitch and French knots are sometimes used to enhance the design.
Why Cross Stitching Is Perfect for Beginners
With only one main stitch to learn it is very easy for beginners to pick up this embroidery technique.
Cross stitching is a craft that is easy to learn and inexpensive. It’s also a great way to relax and unwind at the end of the day.
A hobby that anyone can enjoy and it doesn’t require any expensive equipment or supplies.
It’s also really easy to find patterns online, so you don’t have to worry about not being able to find something you like or having trouble finding materials in your area.
Different Types of Cross Stitches and How to Use Them
Top row from left to right
- cross stitch – the main basic stitch
- Three quarter stitch – used to give a rounder shaping to designs
- Quarter stitch – to fill in very small sections
- petit stitch – mainly used on even weave linen
Bottom row from left to right
- Upper left half stitch – good for shading
- Lower left half stitch – as above but in the opposite direction
- French knot – to add detail to eyes etc. and also for added texture
- Back stitch – for outlining shapes and stitching lettering
Cross Stitch Tutorials for Beginners
Cross stitch is an easy craft to learn and doesn’t require a lot of materials. These would be the basics
Materials:
2) Aida Fabric (14 count)
3) Embroidery Needle (the size depends on the thickness of your thread)
4) Scissors
6) Embroidery Hoop (optional, but recommended for beginners).
Next step to to check out these helpful posts:
- Beginners guide to cross stitch
- 23 perfect cross stitch patterns for beginners
- How to do back stitch embroidery
- How to do French knots
- How to frame cross stitch in a hoop
