Diane Palmer asked: Counted Cross Stitch is a great relaxing hobby, and has been around for a very long time.
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You can purchase kits, that come complete with threads, stamped cross stitch fabric, and instructions, or you can create your own.
Cross stitch, is creating a picture using a cross stitch or counted “X”’s. It is easy to learn, and once you have it mastered, you can take it anywhere.
Traditionally, cross-stitch was used to decorate items like dishcloths, household linens, and doilies, and was taught to young girls, along with embroidery and other needlework. They would start their hope chest with these items from a very young age.
Although most cross stitchers, prefer to use it to create pictures that can be framed. The fabric consists of tiny holes that can be counted, and that is why it is called “Counted Cross Stitch” you basically stitch a “X” into each of these small square holes, with different colored threads.
You can also draw your own pictures on the cloth and get creative with color. There is no limit. There are many instructions books that teach you to cross stitch, but I found a video to be the best way to learn. It feels more hands on, than pictures in a book.
With all the great products and kits on the market now, you can create some very one of a kind art with cross stitch. Put with the right frame, this can be stunning. If you are a beginner, start with a simple cross stitch kit, and once practiced, move up to more detailed ones or create your own works of art.
Cross stitch is like painting a picture with thread.. it is beautiful.
learn to cross stitch
KELLY