Cross Stitch Materials and Preparation
By Laura Anne Grey
Preparation
You should always cut the fabric you are going to stitch onto at least
8-10 cm larger than the finished size of the design, this will allow
you to turn up a seam, or to mount your work or make it into a gift. If
you are making a garment with a cross stitch design you should mark out
the pattern of the garment onto the fabric before you start stitching
to ensure you place it correctly. To prevent the fabric from fraying
you can either turn over the edge and machine stitch it or bind it
using tape. I find masking tape good for this job. You should always
start stitching from the center of the fabric. Fold the fabric in half
one way and then the other way to find the center point. Separate your
threads - If you are working from a kit the thread for the project will
likely be supplied. You should separate and mark the colours before you
start to make sure you identify each colour correctly. A floss
organizer is very handy for this job and you can pick one up for only a
few dollars these days.
Equipment
Very little equipment is actually needed for cross stitch. If you are
working from a kit the fabric, needle and threads will most likely be
supplied. You will need an embroidery hoop or frame to mount the fabric
on. Take a look at the cross stitch materials information below:
Hoops and Frames
If you mount the cross stitch fabric on a hoop or frame your work will
be easier to handle and stitches will be kept flat and smooth. You
should choose a frame that accommodates the whole design so you don't
have to fold or bend the fabric.
If you bind the outer ring of an embroidery hoop with white bias tape
it will prevent it from marking the fabric and prevent slipping.
Needles
You should stitch your design using a tapestry needle which has a large
eye and a blunt end to prevent damage to the fabric. Choose a size of
needles that slides easily through the holes of the fabric without
distorting or enlarging them.
Scissors
A sharp pair of embroidery or sewing sissors will make you floss cuts
neat and tidy.
Thimble
A thimble will help stop your finger hurting.
Threads
Cross stitch designs are worked with floss thread. These come in many
colours and clever use of colour creates wonderful cross stitch pieces.
Fabric
The Majority of cross stitch is worked on Aida fabric which comes in
several sizes. The most popular size is 14 count which means there are
14 threads to 1 inch.
Laura Anne Grey has been a cross stitcher and enthusiast for over ten
years. She owns a craft business in South Wales and is an expert in her
field. Find more information on Cross Stitch at http://www.lacrossstitch.com
