Cross Stitch Basics

Whether you’re brand new to cross stitching or you’re a pro, the most important thing to remember is that it should be fun!

It’s all too easy to get caught up in the details, so I’ve put together this list of top tips to help make sure that your cross stitching moments are relaxing and enjoyable.

Finding the middle of your fabric

With most counted cross stitch patterns it’s always easiest to start in the middle! This means that you’re working outwards towards the edges of the fabric and makes it less likely that you will run out of fabric, or find out too late that your stitching isn’t centred.

The easiest way to find the middle of your fabric is by folding it in half, and then half again. Once you’ve folded your fabric into quarters just pop the needle through the centre corner and unfold the fabric. This is where you want to start your stitching!

Of course this also means that you want to start in the middle of your pattern too.

Keep your fabric flat

This is where you will discover that your embroidery hoop or frame is your best friend! Every Innocent Bones standard cross stitch kit comes with an embroidery hoop included because keeping your fabric flat and tight is vital to making your cross stitch experience easier.

Once you’ve framed your fabric in your embroidery hoop, pull on the edges of the fabric to tighten it, then tighten the fastening on the hoop to secure the fabric in place. You might need to repeat this process a few times during your progress as the fabric can sometimes become loose while stitching.

Using the right embroidery needle

Just like there are different types of cross stitch fabric (Aida), there are different sizes of embroidery needles that work best. Every Innocent Bones cross stitch kit comes with the perfect sized needle included so that you don’t need to worry about that part. 

Cutting the best length of thread

I always advise that you should start with a piece of thread about the length of your forearm. Usually this is the magic length. However, some people find that they can happily cross stitch with slightly longer thread and some people need to go shorter.

Some of the reasons you might need to cut your thread lengths shorter are:

• Your thread is tangling up A LOT - your thread is too long.

• You find that your thread sheds too much - your thread is too long.

How to read a cross stitch pattern

Most counted cross stitch kits come with a pattern to follow, unless the pattern is actually printed onto the fabric. Your pattern will usually be printed onto a sheet of paper, or several depending on how large the pattern is, and sometimes they are even available as digital downloads!

The pattern will be made up of squares on a grid and the squares that are filled with a colour and a symbol are the ones that you’re going to stitch. The clue is in the name with this type of embroidery, because you simple need to count the squares on the pattern and stitch the same amount of squares onto your aida fabric.

Keep things neat and tidy

There’s nothing more frustrating than losing your needle, misplacing your embroidery scissors, or tangling your threads up in the middle of a project! So to save yourself from frustration its best to keep things nice and organised from the beginning.

Some people like to keep their bits and bobs in a handy carry pouch, and others prefer a sturdy storage box. Whatever your preference, just trust me and thank me later 😉

And most importantly…

Have fun! Cross stitching is a hobby that can help you focus, de-stress, and feel accomplished and creative. So, pop the kettle on, get cosy and enjoy!