1. To keep needles sharp, store them in a bar of soap.
2. Having trouble threading the needle? Hold it so that
the eye is against something light-colored. This makes it much easier
to see.
3. If you don't have a needle-threader handy, try cutting
a tiny piece of paper and slipping the ends of the thread or yarn into
it. Fold it in half over the thread and insert it in to the eye. This
works especially well with yarn when you are working crewel, but I've
also used it with embroidery floss.
Thread
1. Use only around 18" of thread at a time. Anymore than this will cause your thread to knot.
2. After you have cut the strands of floss you are going
to use, pull them apart and put them back together before threading the
needle. Embroidery floss is already twisted; this will keep it from
getting worse as you use it.
Material
1. When working needlepoint or
cross-stitch patterns, it is a good idea to finish the edges with
masking tape. This will prevent the material from unraveling as you
work. 2. When working a large cross-stitch pattern, it is sometimes helpful to mark your grid on your fabric. Using needle and thread, simply back-stitch your grid using your thread count. In other words, if you are using 14-count Aida cloth, your grid squares would be 14 by 14.
Marking Patterns
1. If you don't have a marking pen handy, you can trace the design onto your material using carbon paper. However, always test this on a small area first to be sure the carbon will wash out.
2.
Transferring patterns to dark colors can be a little tricky and the
pattern is not always easy to see. Trace your pattern onto a piece of
paper and tack it in place on the material. You can now work your
pattern through the paper.
When you are done, simply use your needle to work the edges out of the
pattern and tear them off.
3. If you are using the paper method, do not use a hoop. Your stitches will turn out too loose.
4. Make a personal copy of your cross-stitch pattern. You can use this pattern to mark the stitches you have done. A high-lighter is handy for this.
Share your tips
Do you have a tip you would like to share? Send me an email
and I will add it to the Needlework Tips & Tricks page. Please
remember to include your first name and your state, so I can give you
credit for them.
