Joanne Sanderson Cross Stitch - Cross Stitch Tips

Basic Instructions for stitching

1. Starting from the centre of the fabric, Use two strands for Cross Stitch, and 1 for Back Stitch (unless otherwise stated), over one block of fabric as stated in the key. Follow the chart stitching outwards from the centre.

2. A diagonal stitch is made (above left) for the first part of the cross stitch. All diagonal stitches need to be facing the same way, this will give the stitching neatness.

3. The needle is brought up through the fabric and then down diagonally (above right). The completed stitch is a 'cross'. Again all top stitches need to be lying in the same direction. Both pictures show a block of completed stitches, note there are no gaps between stitches.

Tip- It is easier to come up through the fabric in an unoccupied hole if possible and down through an unoccupied hole, as opposed to coming up through an occupied hole and down through an unoccupied one.

Tip- Complete each stitch fully before making the next as opposed to having a row of half cross stitches and then going back along the row to complete the cross stitch. This will give the fabric a more even tension.

4. Half Cross Stitches are simply a diagonal line (the first part of the cross stitch) without the top cross (above left). Alternatively it can be the top diagonal without the bottom stitch. As long as only one diagonal line is made then it doesn't really matter.

5. Once the Cross stitches are complete work the Back Stitches and then French Knots, add any beads or charms last (Usually after ironing the fabric).

Back Stitches (above left) are made by bringing the needle up a hole in front and then taking it back down through the previous hole, which makes a continuous line.

French Knots are made by bringing the needle up (above centre) wrapping the thread once around the needle and then pushing the needle down through the fabric just to the side of where you came up (above right) Take care not to go down through the hole you came up.

6. Use an iron to press the fabric by placing the stitching face down. If beads are used the fabric should be placed on a folded towel whilst ironing so that the beads aren't crushed, alternatively add these after ironing.

7. Trim the edges of the fabric and mount within a frame or card using double sided tape to secure the stitching to the inside of the card or mount board.

Tip- Using pinking shears to cut the fabric edges will help minimise fraying of the fabric.

Basic Equipment

Fabric - There are two main types of fabric used in cross stitch, the main one being Aida. The most popular is 14 count which has 14 x 14 holes per inch. Stitches are worked over one block of fabric, which corresponds to one block on the graph. The other is Evenweave fabric, for example Linen. 28 count linen will give the same size finished design as 14 count Aida, this is because stitches made on Evenweave are stitched over two threads of fabric. Always use fabric at least 3 inches larger than the finished design size, this allows for trimming and mounting. Larger designs that will require framing need to be even larger. To find the centre of the fabric, fold in half and in half again unfold to reveal a cross, the centre of the cross is the centre of the fabric, which is the starting point for stitching in most designs.

Needles - Tapestry needles are available in a range of sizes, 26 or 28 is used for 14 count Aida.

Thread - Embroidery cotton or floss consists of 6 strands. The thread is cut in to workable lengths no longer than 18 inches long. Separate the stranded cotton and recombine the number of strands indicated in the instructions; commonly 2 strands for Cross stitch and 1 for Back stitch on 14 count fabric.

Scissors - A sharp pair of embroidery scissors is recommended for snipping thread, and a pair of dressmaking scissors for cutting fabric.

You may find it easier to work with an embroidery hoop or frame as this will help achieve even tension of the stitches.

Tip - alternatively before stitching spray laundry starch on the back of the fabric and iron to activate, this will stiffen the fabric and help to ensure even tension without a hoop.

Further Tips and useful points to remember

1. Start from the centre of the chart (follow the centre arrows to find the point where they cross) unless. Following the chart start at the centre of the fabric and work areas of one colour. Each box on the grid contains a colour symbol and is identified in the key.

2. All top crosses should lie in the same direction. Work all cross stitches before completing the back stitch and French knots.

3. Ensure that your hands are clean and the fabric stored in a clean bag in between stitching sessions. Never store needles in the fabric as they have a nasty habit of leaving stains.

4. Finished stitched pieces can be hand washed and ironed if needed. This will also remove stubborn creases from the fabric.

For more tips see Joanne's blog at http://joannesanderson.blogspot.com/

Full printable instructions are available on our 'Free Chart' page.

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