Article: Cross Stitch Basics: Everything You Need to Get Started šŖ”
Cross Stitch Basics: Everything You Need to Get Started šŖ”
Whether you're totally new to cross stitching or just brushing up on the basics, hereās the one rule that matters most: it should be fun!
Thatās why weāve pulled together this no-stress guide filled with top beginner cross stitch tips. Whether you're starting your first kit or looking for a refresher, this is your go-to intro to cross stitch.
š§µ 1. Start from the Middle of Your Fabric
One of the first things to learn in cross stitch? Start in the middle. It makes counting easier, ensures your design is centred, and helps you avoid running out of space on your fabric.
How to find the middle of your Aida fabric:
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Fold your fabric in half horizontally.
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Fold it in half again vertically.
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Pop your needle through the corner of the foldsāthatās your centre point!
Now do the same with your pattern and begin stitching from the middle outwards. Easy.
šŖ” 2. Use an Embroidery Hoop to Keep Fabric Flat
A loose, wrinkled fabric? Nightmare. A tight, flat surface? Dreamy.
Every Innocent Bones cross stitch kit comes with a high-quality embroidery hoop because it makes a huge difference when stitching.
How to use your hoop:
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Place your fabric between the inner and outer rings.
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Tighten the hoop screw.
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Gently tug on the edges of your fabric to remove slack.
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Keep it taut as you goāadjust if needed!
This helps maintain tension in your stitches and keeps your design looking neat.
š§· 3. Choose the Right Needle
The best needle for cross stitch is a tapestry needleāit has a large eye for threading floss and a blunt tip to glide through Aida fabric without piercing it.
But size matters! (For needles, anyway.)
Not sure what size needle to use? Check out our blog:
š Which Cross Stitch Needle Is Right For You?
No need to stress thoughāevery Innocent Bones kit comes with the correct needle size included, so youāre always good to go.
āļø 4. Cut the Right Length of Thread
Wondering how long your thread should be? A good rule of thumb is roughly the length of your forearm.
Too long = knots, tangles, and fraying.
Too short = forever re-threading.
If your thread keeps tangling or feels fluffy before you've even finished a section, try using shorter strands.
š 5. How to Read a Cross Stitch Pattern
Most modern cross stitch kits (like ours!) are based on counted cross stitch patterns.
Hereās how they work:
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The pattern is printed on a grid, where each square = one stitch.
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Coloured squares and symbols = the thread colour youāll use.
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Just count the squares on your pattern and stitch the same amount onto your fabric.
š§° 6. Stay Organised
Nothing ruins a chill stitching sesh faster than a missing needle or tangled thread.
Hereās how to stay zen:
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Use a pouch or a storage box to keep everything together.
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Wind your thread onto bobbins or use a thread organiser.
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Keep your needle and scissors somewhere safe (and sharp!).
A tidy space = a happier stitcher.
ā 7. Most Importantlyā¦ Have Fun!
Cross stitch is more than just a craftāitās a way to unwind, focus, and get creative. So light a candle, brew a cuppa, and enjoy the process. Your moment of calm awaits.
Final Thoughts
If youāre just getting started, remember: you donāt need to know it all. Every cross stitch kit from Innocent Bones is beginner-friendly and includes all the tools (and guidance) you need to get stitching confidently.
