WELCOME TO CROSS-STITCHING!
Cross-stitch is a ancient craft where simple x-shaped stitches (and a lot of counting) slowly transform into elaborate pieces of art - think of it as embroidery-by-number. The results are beautiful and undeniably rewarding; the process is mindfully meditative - a lovely way to unwind and express yourself.
We’re here to provide the essentials to get you started - who knows where you’ll go from there. Get your hands on one of our starter kits and dive in!
If you’re learning, Preparing For Your Project is the place to start.
If you’d like to jump to a specific section click a link below.
A note about process: As self-taught stitchers, we have learned that there are many ways to get to the end of your project. Seasoned crafters will point out that you can judge the quality of a piece by studying the neatness of the back of the canvas. We think they can mind their business.
It is with this energy that, whenever possible, we offer you 2 options for technique - the quick way and the clean way. You can decide what fits your purposes at each step.
On hoops: We don’t use them because these patterns are designed to come close to the edge. You may use one if you find it more comfortable, but it is unnecessary as long as you are gentle while stitching. You can also choose to tape the edges at the beginning of your project to protect them from fraying. If you do not choose to take this step, we have given an extra row of fabric on the outer edges of your piece so that you can trim it clean at the end.
You can choose to forge ahead once you nail the basic stitch and figure the rest out along the way (that’s what we did!), but if you want a little guidance, skim through the Basics or dive into the Tips & Tricks - with videos and illustrations where helpful.
PREPARING FOR YOUR PROJECT
Check the list in your package for specifics, but typically you should have:
Make sure you have a comfortable spot with good lighting (front and back.) Have your pattern (printed or digital) in reach.
The more you pay attention to your stitching the more you find patterns - patterns that create tangles and patterns that undo them. We encourage you to tune in while you tune out~
If you’re going to smudge your space, we recommend doing it both before you start your project to set the intention and again at the end to seal it. Follow instructions on your printed incantation.
Your pattern matches your fabric square for square, so you can count from any edge to start your stitching. There are three possible symbols on your pattern. An X indicates a full stitch a /&\ indicate half stitches. Half stitches are rare.
- The black border (inner) on your pattern indicates the final piece. If you don’t stitch too tightly, you can trim one row from each edge at the end and this will fit your frame exactly. More info here: Finishing Your Piece
- The pink border (outer) indicates the physical edge of your fabric. Count from any edge to start stitching or to verify your place.
- The large pink squares indicate 10 counts in either direction and help to simplify all the counting
The cleaner your hands when you stitch the less chance you have of staining or grubbing up your nice white fabric.
Depending on your piece’s stitch count (and your talent for untangling), you can expect to dedicate 3-6 hours to your project. It might feel slow going at first, but you’ll see your pattern emerge slowly, and then, bit by bit, become complete. If your message is meaningful to you, perhaps take this time to meditate on its meaning and impact. Visualize your life with the manifestation of your new sign.
Once you find your flow, cross-stitching is an amazing way to get into a zone and offers a great sense of productivity when you display your piece in the end.
Now that you’re in the right head and physical spaces, on to THE BASICS of stitching!