how to // cross-stitch (+ free template!)

To pass the time (& to get ready for Christmas) I've been doing some mad cross-stitching lately. It's super easy, & it's definitely the kind of craft that pairs well with TV-watching (Gilmore Girls ain't gonna watch itself, people). This is the kind of hobby that you can learn in a few minutes - if you can count, you can cross-stitch. I thought I'd share some tips & tricks I've gathered during my own cross-stitching adventures.

If this kind of crafting seems daunting to you (I mean, look at all those little x's!), start with something small that doesn't require a lot of stitches. I get bored with projects fairly quickly, so my cross-stitched pieces always have lots & lots of negative space, like the one shown above (my tribute to 'Yonce, of course). Once you get started, however, you'll be surprised at how quickly your projects get finished. Stick with it!

If you would like to make this Tribute to 'Yonce cross-stitch yourself, you can download the template by clicking here. 

| Have a Plan |

Unless you're channelling the spirit of Pollock through embroidery floss, you'll need a rough plan to begin with. If you're planning a specific design, sketch it out. I like using graph paper to figure out the spacing of my letters, having each square on the paper represent a square on my embroidery cloth. Keep in mind when using graph paper that the scale will be different. If you don't feel like planning the whole thing out, use a pattern (you can create one by using Photoshop).

| Use Less Thread |

Even though embroidery floss comes six strands to a thread, I prefer using three. If you're using a particularly thin fabric, use less. The imperfections on the back will show through more when you use excess strands.

Unlike sewing, you won't need to tie knots in your embroidery thread. Unless you're cross-stitching into a garment that will see some wear, avoid knotting as it shows up as a bulge.

You'll also want to use a tapestry needle, not a regular sewing needle. The tapestry needle comes to a blunt point, helping guide the needle into the openings in the mesh fabric.

| Lots of Little Xs |

Cross-stitching, much as the name implies, consists of lots of little stitched crossings. Cross-stitching, unlike embroidery, is based off a grid. Cross-stitching is done on aida cloth, also known as java canvas. This cloth is made of open mesh cotton.

Cross-stitching is made easier by use of an embroidery hoop, but is not necessary due to the rigidity of aida cloth.

| Frame It |

I love the look of cross-stitching framed in an embroidery hoop. Before finishing this piece, I laid a square of cotton fabric on the back of my finished cross-stitch & centered the two in this painted embroidery hoop. Making sure everything was secure & the hoop was as tight as possible, I trimmed the edges of both fabrics.

You can also frame your work in a picture frame behind glass, or use your work as a patch for a garment (making sure to hem the edges before hand).

Have any tips for prospective cross-stitchers you'd like to share? Leave me a comment!

xoxo,
-m.e.

Related // Try out this "Cats, Coffee, & Cardigans" mini sampler!