What you will need to get started in Cross Stitch

What you will need to get started in Cross Stitch...

You will need the following: project, fabric, floss, hoop, needle and scissors.

Project...

Make sure you choose a project that is the right level for you. If you are a beginner, you would not want to start out with a huge project. Getting a few smaller projects stitched up before you tackle the big ones keeps you motivated to keep stitching.

And it always a good idea to read the pattern instructions and review the chart thoroughly before you begin stitching.

Fabric...

The most common fabric for cross stitching is Aida and Linen.

Aida cloth is a woven fabric which leaves perfect squares for making cross-stitch X's. Because Aida Cloth is loosely woven, the spaces where the stitches need to be made are readily apparent. Aida come in sizes ranging from 11 count up to 18 count. Most Aida Cloth is 100% cotton or a blend of cotton and linen fibers.

Linen or Evenweave Fabric is a smooth fabric because it is made of half-natural fiber and half a man-made fiber like polyester. Cross-stitching on linen is usually stitched with two fibers/threads over two fabric threads in every other hole (two over two). Linen comes in sizes ranging from 18 count to 40 count. Because it has the higher counts per inch, faces and hands are often sewn one over one for greater definition of the detail.

Floss...

The legend on each project will tell you what floss is needed. There are many different types of specialty floss available and pricing is increasing. Make sure you keep your supply organized and clean. Whether you choose to use bobbin & floss boxes or floss-a-way bags and rings, organization is essential. Remember your finished project is only as good as the materials you are using.

Hoop...

There are so many options available when it comes to your hoop.

The spring tension hoop is excellent for all types of needlework. The easy clamping feature keeps fabric tight (no slipping) and will not pull your fabric in the wrong direction. Just be sure to un-hoop it when you are done stitching-- you don’t want to get hoop burn.

The Q-Snap is interlocking PVC piping made especially for needlework. Q-Snap offers a sturdy but lightweight frame for embroidery. The Q-Snap frame comes apart in seconds to store or to carry in practically any tote. Four plastic C-shaped clamps hold the fabric onto the bars. Tension is easy to adjust.

And of course my favorite hooping option is the Scroll Frame or EZ Needlework Lap Stand. The scroll frames with the no basting system are so easy to use. With a scroll frame your hands hardly touch your fabric so there is low risk in getting it dirty from your hand oils. And the best of all is there will be no hoop burn as all of the fabric is secured around the rods. My favorite thing about a scroll frame is you can stitch with both hands.

Needles...

A blunt tapestry needle is best for cross-stitch. It is the most comfortable needle for passing back and forth through the holes in the fabric. Use a size 24 for 14-count Aida and a size 26 for 16- and 18-count Aida or 28-count Linen.

Scissors...

Use embroidery scissors to cut off the thread ends cleanly. These small scissors have very sharp points. You want to be able to snip and clip your way to a clean and beautiful result.

It doesn’t take much to get started cross stitching and you will find your own grove and what products that work for you to make it easy, comfortable and above all enjoyable.

So grab a project, fabric, floss, hoop, needle and scissors and get stitching!!!