Cross Stitch|
Nov
13
Filed Under (Hobbies) by Kert
Yiota Christodoulou asked:
Here are some cross stitch tips that will help you a lot with your cross stitch projects.
GETTING STARTED
Always start stitching from the center of your fabric. To find the center on your fabric, fold the fabric in half twice. The center will be at the intersection of the two folds.
Finding the center of your chart by following the two arrows. One arrow will be in the top center FABRIC
Put tissue paper in your hoop with your fabric then tear away the center where you are stitching. This will keep oils from getting onto your fabric and help your hands from being moist.
Use different qualities of fabric. Try cheaper fabric for quick designs, saving money so that you can splash out on the best fabric for heirloom projects.
You will want to allow 3 to 4 inches of fabric on each side of the design. This will help you framing your project easily.
THREADS
When stitching with 2 threads use only one strand of floss, put the ends together and thread them through the needle leaving a loop on one end. When you put the needle through on your second stitch, catch it through the loop. This keeps the material from getting bumby.
When ending your thread by running under other stitches, try to match colors. Never run a dark color under light stitched, it might show through to the front.
Back stitch should be added when all other stitching has been completed.
NEEDLES
Many of us we have the bad habit of leaving the needle into the fabric when we end a session. Be aware that this can leave a permanent stain or large hole in your fabric. Always store a needle properly.
TIPS
If you have pets or small children do not keep your cross stitch materials in a bag. Keeping your threads, needles and scissors in a box that shuts securely will prevent little fingers and paws from getting into things easily!
If you are working on a larger needlework project, invest in a set of stretcher bars. They keep the fabric from getting warped and it makes it easier to actually do the sewing. They come in several sizes, and are fairly inexpensive.
Using a highlighter in a light color - yellow works very well for marking off stitches or areas of stitching as you complete them. If your lighting make the yellow hard to see at night, you could use another color like green or blue or orange when stitching at night.
CLAYTON
Here are some cross stitch tips that will help you a lot with your cross stitch projects.
GETTING STARTED
Always start stitching from the center of your fabric. To find the center on your fabric, fold the fabric in half twice. The center will be at the intersection of the two folds.
Finding the center of your chart by following the two arrows. One arrow will be in the top center FABRIC
___________________________________________________________________
Put tissue paper in your hoop with your fabric then tear away the center where you are stitching. This will keep oils from getting onto your fabric and help your hands from being moist.
Use different qualities of fabric. Try cheaper fabric for quick designs, saving money so that you can splash out on the best fabric for heirloom projects.
You will want to allow 3 to 4 inches of fabric on each side of the design. This will help you framing your project easily.
THREADS
When stitching with 2 threads use only one strand of floss, put the ends together and thread them through the needle leaving a loop on one end. When you put the needle through on your second stitch, catch it through the loop. This keeps the material from getting bumby.
When ending your thread by running under other stitches, try to match colors. Never run a dark color under light stitched, it might show through to the front.
Back stitch should be added when all other stitching has been completed.
NEEDLES
Many of us we have the bad habit of leaving the needle into the fabric when we end a session. Be aware that this can leave a permanent stain or large hole in your fabric. Always store a needle properly.
TIPS
If you have pets or small children do not keep your cross stitch materials in a bag. Keeping your threads, needles and scissors in a box that shuts securely will prevent little fingers and paws from getting into things easily!
If you are working on a larger needlework project, invest in a set of stretcher bars. They keep the fabric from getting warped and it makes it easier to actually do the sewing. They come in several sizes, and are fairly inexpensive.
Using a highlighter in a light color - yellow works very well for marking off stitches or areas of stitching as you complete them. If your lighting make the yellow hard to see at night, you could use another color like green or blue or orange when stitching at night.
CLAYTON
Comments Off
Nov
08
Filed Under (Hobbies) by Kert
Sherry Frewerd asked:
The art or craft of cross stitch is one of the most popular hobbies in the world. Easy to learn and do, ‘cross stitch’ is simply embroidery stitched with lots of little ‘X’ stitches to create a lovely design. This fun craft is sometimes referred to as ‘counted cross-stitch’ because the pattern and fabric require the crafter to count the number spaces to know where to place the stitches.
Most often, cross stitch patterns are done using a woven fabric called Aida cloth. Some advanced stitchers create designs on other types of fabrics using a special backing to help keep the stitching uniform. The kind of fabric you use depends on your skill level and the type of design you’re creating. I’ve cross stitched designs on my children’s clothing, bedding and other items for my home and as gifts.
Skilled cross stitch crafters create beautiful projects by stitching on plastic and various different papers as well. Gift cards and scrapbook designs may be made by stitching on paper of varying thickness and fiber.
Of course you can’t cross stitch without the proper thread. The threads used in counted cross stitch range from basic cotton, to wool or silk threads. Usually very colorful, embroidery floss as it’s called, comes in all kinds of colors and textures for you to play with.
If you’re just beginning to consider learning to cross stitch, your best bet is to learn about the craft itself before you start buying supplies. Your local craft store, bookstore, or library will most likely have several books available that will teach you and provide easy patterns to start with.
Once you know what’s expected of you in the craft of cross stitching, you’ll want to find some easy projects to begin with that will allow you to learn as you go. You’ll want to start with a project that requires only a few colors of thread and a larger weave Aida cloth. By doing so, you’ll prevent a lot of unnecessary learner’s frustration.
When you sit down to start your first cross stitch project, you’ll want to have all of your materials available and easy to get to. Start out by reading through the project instructions. You’ll want to look over your pattern and make sure that you understand all of the jargon and markings that you may find on the pattern. There will be a color key that you’ll need to understand so that you use the correct thread color. Make sure to have a pencil handy to make notes or your own marks on the pattern for later reference.
Cross stitching requires you to use a six strand of floss or thread and separate it into individual threads. Your pattern will tell you how many threads you’ll use at a time. Most often, the larger the weave of your fabric, the more strands of embroidery floss you’ll need at a time. Don’t rewind your floss and by all means don’t let it get tangled or bunched up. Your end project will look flat and even if you take care of your floss.
One key factor in learning to cross stitch is remembering not to knot your thread. Knotting threads in a cross stitch project will make your end result look lumpy and uneven; not a good thing. Just pull your thread through your Aida cloth and make sure to leave a length of thread on the end in the back. You can keep the bit of tail from going completely through the fabric by holding onto it on the back of your fabric as you make your first couple of stitches; they will overlap and hold the thread in place. You may have to practice this easy technique a few times, but you’ll get the hang of it soon enough.
Another handy cross stitching tip is when you’re ready to change thread colors, just simply pull your needle through the stitches on the back of your fabric to hold your thread before you snip it off with scissors. Make sure to leave a little bit of thread so that it does not come loose and unstitched. Change your thread color and start on the next area of your project as you did before. And during the stitching process, remember to drop your needle every few stitches, meaning, just hold your project in one hand and let the attached needle and thread dangle from the fabric so that the thread unwinds and your next few stitches will be flat.
I can remember learning to cross stitch from a school librarian when I was a young girl. She eased my newbie anxiety with this phrase: ‘If you have one eye and half a brain you can cross stitch.’ Now, perhaps that may offend some avid cross stitchers, but she didn’t mean it in derogatory way. Only that cross stitching is an easy to learn and do craft that just about anyone can master. I mastered it in the 1980’s and stitched on anything I could get a needle through and even taught classes to school kids myself as an adult. The biggest problem I and most other cross stitchers have is the addiction of the craft. One thing to keep in mind is to control the number of kits you buy or you’ll find yourself with drawers of unfinished projects. Have fun and keep on stitchin’!
WARD
___________________________________________________________________
The art or craft of cross stitch is one of the most popular hobbies in the world. Easy to learn and do, ‘cross stitch’ is simply embroidery stitched with lots of little ‘X’ stitches to create a lovely design. This fun craft is sometimes referred to as ‘counted cross-stitch’ because the pattern and fabric require the crafter to count the number spaces to know where to place the stitches.
Most often, cross stitch patterns are done using a woven fabric called Aida cloth. Some advanced stitchers create designs on other types of fabrics using a special backing to help keep the stitching uniform. The kind of fabric you use depends on your skill level and the type of design you’re creating. I’ve cross stitched designs on my children’s clothing, bedding and other items for my home and as gifts.
Skilled cross stitch crafters create beautiful projects by stitching on plastic and various different papers as well. Gift cards and scrapbook designs may be made by stitching on paper of varying thickness and fiber.
Of course you can’t cross stitch without the proper thread. The threads used in counted cross stitch range from basic cotton, to wool or silk threads. Usually very colorful, embroidery floss as it’s called, comes in all kinds of colors and textures for you to play with.
If you’re just beginning to consider learning to cross stitch, your best bet is to learn about the craft itself before you start buying supplies. Your local craft store, bookstore, or library will most likely have several books available that will teach you and provide easy patterns to start with.
Once you know what’s expected of you in the craft of cross stitching, you’ll want to find some easy projects to begin with that will allow you to learn as you go. You’ll want to start with a project that requires only a few colors of thread and a larger weave Aida cloth. By doing so, you’ll prevent a lot of unnecessary learner’s frustration.
When you sit down to start your first cross stitch project, you’ll want to have all of your materials available and easy to get to. Start out by reading through the project instructions. You’ll want to look over your pattern and make sure that you understand all of the jargon and markings that you may find on the pattern. There will be a color key that you’ll need to understand so that you use the correct thread color. Make sure to have a pencil handy to make notes or your own marks on the pattern for later reference.
Cross stitching requires you to use a six strand of floss or thread and separate it into individual threads. Your pattern will tell you how many threads you’ll use at a time. Most often, the larger the weave of your fabric, the more strands of embroidery floss you’ll need at a time. Don’t rewind your floss and by all means don’t let it get tangled or bunched up. Your end project will look flat and even if you take care of your floss.
One key factor in learning to cross stitch is remembering not to knot your thread. Knotting threads in a cross stitch project will make your end result look lumpy and uneven; not a good thing. Just pull your thread through your Aida cloth and make sure to leave a length of thread on the end in the back. You can keep the bit of tail from going completely through the fabric by holding onto it on the back of your fabric as you make your first couple of stitches; they will overlap and hold the thread in place. You may have to practice this easy technique a few times, but you’ll get the hang of it soon enough.
Another handy cross stitching tip is when you’re ready to change thread colors, just simply pull your needle through the stitches on the back of your fabric to hold your thread before you snip it off with scissors. Make sure to leave a little bit of thread so that it does not come loose and unstitched. Change your thread color and start on the next area of your project as you did before. And during the stitching process, remember to drop your needle every few stitches, meaning, just hold your project in one hand and let the attached needle and thread dangle from the fabric so that the thread unwinds and your next few stitches will be flat.
I can remember learning to cross stitch from a school librarian when I was a young girl. She eased my newbie anxiety with this phrase: ‘If you have one eye and half a brain you can cross stitch.’ Now, perhaps that may offend some avid cross stitchers, but she didn’t mean it in derogatory way. Only that cross stitching is an easy to learn and do craft that just about anyone can master. I mastered it in the 1980’s and stitched on anything I could get a needle through and even taught classes to school kids myself as an adult. The biggest problem I and most other cross stitchers have is the addiction of the craft. One thing to keep in mind is to control the number of kits you buy or you’ll find yourself with drawers of unfinished projects. Have fun and keep on stitchin’!
WARD
Comments Off
Nov
05
Filed Under (Art And Entertainment) by Kert
John Wigham asked:
There are a numerous reasons for taking up the beguiling, blue-collar craft of cross stitch, ten of which are shown below. So continue reading then pay a visit to your local craft shop and start your cross stitching career today.
1. Why “blue-collar” you might ask? Well! When compared to most other pastimes, cross stitch is truly inexpensive; there’s no fancy or expensive machinery. When you have bought a kit or the thread and fabric for your own design that’s about it for outlay (well, until you buy the next one anyway). Simple kits start from a couple of dollars and you’re guaranteed something at the end of it to show for your efforts.
2. Whatever you produce, be it a tiny picture of a mere few inches in diameter, or a sampler that stretches the length of your wall, you will always have it to keep. You can even hand it down to your children, thereby creating an heirloom.
3. Even beginners can make cross stitch works that look both beautiful and professional. Starter kits don’t need any previous experience and as you develop your skills you can progress to evermore complex patterns. You will never have to scour the shops for that special gift again.
4. Everything you make will be unique and very personal; the perfect gift for every occasion.
5. Cross stitch is great for stress relief and relaxation. Just sit down with your favorite radio program or CD on and stitch away to your heart’s content.
6. Cross stitch is a truly “portable” hobby. You can stitch while sitting in your armchair watching the TV or alternatively you can take it with you on holiday or on long train journeys. Boredom will surely be a thing of the past.
7. The huge number of cross stitch designs available today means that there will always be something you like, regardless of your ability. Simple designs for beginners incorporate a small number of color threads and very basic stitches so that you don’t need to go and read a manual before you make a start. However, as you progress and learn a few more stitches and techniques you can attempt more complex patterns until you really are the professional cross stitcher.
8. There are literally hundreds of websites that offer free patterns to cross stitch. You will have to buy your own threads and fabric but that is half of the challenge! There is absolutely no way on this earth that you will ever run out of things to cross stitch; it really is a hobby for life.
9. As you become more confident and proficient, you can sell some of your creations so making a bit of pocket money while doing something that you love to do. You can even advertise your talents and design patterns for individual customers. Given a few years you could have a nice little business venture as well as a great hobby.
10. Outdoor hobbies such as hill walking and bird watching aren’t much fun in the rain or in the middle of winter, but cross stitch can be done at any time of the year regardless of the weather. In fact it’s a great feeling to sit in a nice warm, cozy house on a dull winter evening and happily stitch the hours away.
Overall, cross stitch really is a universal hobby anyone can master and if your curiosity does get the better of you, you will undoubtedly become hooked in no time. Historically, cross stitching has a rather vague stigma attached to it as being thought of by many as just a “pensioner” activity. But this couldn’t be further from the truth, people of all ages cross stitch, even teenagers and children… and yes men too! … and hey! If you don’t believe me, have a go yourself, you’ll soon find out why cross stitch really is universally popular.
LONNIE
There are a numerous reasons for taking up the beguiling, blue-collar craft of cross stitch, ten of which are shown below. So continue reading then pay a visit to your local craft shop and start your cross stitching career today.
___________________________________________________________________
1. Why “blue-collar” you might ask? Well! When compared to most other pastimes, cross stitch is truly inexpensive; there’s no fancy or expensive machinery. When you have bought a kit or the thread and fabric for your own design that’s about it for outlay (well, until you buy the next one anyway). Simple kits start from a couple of dollars and you’re guaranteed something at the end of it to show for your efforts.
2. Whatever you produce, be it a tiny picture of a mere few inches in diameter, or a sampler that stretches the length of your wall, you will always have it to keep. You can even hand it down to your children, thereby creating an heirloom.
3. Even beginners can make cross stitch works that look both beautiful and professional. Starter kits don’t need any previous experience and as you develop your skills you can progress to evermore complex patterns. You will never have to scour the shops for that special gift again.
4. Everything you make will be unique and very personal; the perfect gift for every occasion.
5. Cross stitch is great for stress relief and relaxation. Just sit down with your favorite radio program or CD on and stitch away to your heart’s content.
6. Cross stitch is a truly “portable” hobby. You can stitch while sitting in your armchair watching the TV or alternatively you can take it with you on holiday or on long train journeys. Boredom will surely be a thing of the past.
7. The huge number of cross stitch designs available today means that there will always be something you like, regardless of your ability. Simple designs for beginners incorporate a small number of color threads and very basic stitches so that you don’t need to go and read a manual before you make a start. However, as you progress and learn a few more stitches and techniques you can attempt more complex patterns until you really are the professional cross stitcher.
8. There are literally hundreds of websites that offer free patterns to cross stitch. You will have to buy your own threads and fabric but that is half of the challenge! There is absolutely no way on this earth that you will ever run out of things to cross stitch; it really is a hobby for life.
9. As you become more confident and proficient, you can sell some of your creations so making a bit of pocket money while doing something that you love to do. You can even advertise your talents and design patterns for individual customers. Given a few years you could have a nice little business venture as well as a great hobby.
10. Outdoor hobbies such as hill walking and bird watching aren’t much fun in the rain or in the middle of winter, but cross stitch can be done at any time of the year regardless of the weather. In fact it’s a great feeling to sit in a nice warm, cozy house on a dull winter evening and happily stitch the hours away.
Overall, cross stitch really is a universal hobby anyone can master and if your curiosity does get the better of you, you will undoubtedly become hooked in no time. Historically, cross stitching has a rather vague stigma attached to it as being thought of by many as just a “pensioner” activity. But this couldn’t be further from the truth, people of all ages cross stitch, even teenagers and children… and yes men too! … and hey! If you don’t believe me, have a go yourself, you’ll soon find out why cross stitch really is universally popular.
LONNIE
Comments Off
Oct
20
Filed Under (Art And Entertainment) by Kert
John Wigham asked:
Cross stitching is a great hobby for children. It can help to develop hand to eye coordination, shape and colour recognition, as well as encourage cooperative behavior, patience and creativity. Most of all, it can be good fun for you and your child — an interest to share together, and become a hobby that your child can enjoy without an adult being present, and a passion for life!
The first experience of cross stitching is important. You’ll want this to be a happy experience for both of you. If it isn’t, the child may be reluctant to start again. Children usually want to see fast results, and especially to finish their first sessions on a positive and successful note.
Let your child choose a simple design, perhaps a favourite animal or character that contains only two or three colours, and in whole stitches only. As for fabric, tiny hands may have difficulty with aida or evenweave, so you may want to consider using plastic canvas or 6-count Binca. As your child becomes more experienced, 11- and 14- count fabrics will be the next step.
You’ll also need to provide appropriately sized needles. A size 22 tapestry needle will do the job very well. An easier option is to choose a kit designed and manufactured for children (see below). Choosing a kit together can create a lot of pleasure and anticipation for the project ahead.
Gentle supervision will be necessary during the child’s first attempts. Make sure the child washes hands carefully before stitching begins. In the early days eating must be discouraged, as anyone who has tried to remove melted chocolate from fabric will testify.
Arrange things so that all items are within easy reach. The child must also appreciate the need to keep track of the needle and scissors, as these are potentially dangerous items to lose. You can stress the importance of returning the scissors to its special place, perhaps in the middle of the table.
Sessions should be short enough to keep the child’s attention and enthusiasm, but long enough to achieve some sort of noticeable progress. Starting the first stitches can be the most difficult part of the project, and it’s advisable to help your child by starting off the stitching yourself, anchoring the thread carefully at the back. It’s probably unnecessary to give too much information at first, but there are certain tips that can help your child enjoy stitching.
You may decide to let your child practise the basic cross-stitch on a piece of scrap material before attempting the real thing. You’ll need to explain and demonstrate that the square in the fabric matches the square in the design. You can also demonstrate allowing the needle to dangle and spin around, at regular intervals so that the thread untwists itself.
You may also encourage making each stitch in the same way, so that the top legs of the stitches go in the same direction. It’s also a good idea for children to complete each stitch before attempting the next one. The child can then see the picture growing in a satisfying way.
As with all new tasks, children learn best by having their efforts praised at regular intervals (don’t we all?). Stitching must be fun rather than being a test, a chore or a battle of wits. It’s rewarding for the child to finish the piece, rather than have you take over, even if this means that you may do some of the more difficult parts of the design and leave the last, easier stitches for the child to complete.
The finished article should be commented on in positive terms by all the family, and you could consider ironing the piece and then placing it in a frame and displaying it so that everyone can be reminded of the achievement. As well as giving the child added confidence, this can also mean that the next project will be eagerly anticipated.
Kits for children can be bought in the UK from:
Crafts Unlimited Link to: http://www.crafts-unlimited.co.uk/system/index.html
The Coleshill Collection Link to: http://www.coleshillcollection.co.uk/shop.asp?mode=cat&item=17
Chunky cross stitch for children by Pako Link to: http://www.sewandso.co.uk/ran1768-0.html
CLINTON
Cross stitching is a great hobby for children. It can help to develop hand to eye coordination, shape and colour recognition, as well as encourage cooperative behavior, patience and creativity. Most of all, it can be good fun for you and your child — an interest to share together, and become a hobby that your child can enjoy without an adult being present, and a passion for life!
The first experience of cross stitching is important. You’ll want this to be a happy experience for both of you. If it isn’t, the child may be reluctant to start again. Children usually want to see fast results, and especially to finish their first sessions on a positive and successful note.
Let your child choose a simple design, perhaps a favourite animal or character that contains only two or three colours, and in whole stitches only. As for fabric, tiny hands may have difficulty with aida or evenweave, so you may want to consider using plastic canvas or 6-count Binca. As your child becomes more experienced, 11- and 14- count fabrics will be the next step.
You’ll also need to provide appropriately sized needles. A size 22 tapestry needle will do the job very well. An easier option is to choose a kit designed and manufactured for children (see below). Choosing a kit together can create a lot of pleasure and anticipation for the project ahead.
Gentle supervision will be necessary during the child’s first attempts. Make sure the child washes hands carefully before stitching begins. In the early days eating must be discouraged, as anyone who has tried to remove melted chocolate from fabric will testify.
Arrange things so that all items are within easy reach. The child must also appreciate the need to keep track of the needle and scissors, as these are potentially dangerous items to lose. You can stress the importance of returning the scissors to its special place, perhaps in the middle of the table.
Sessions should be short enough to keep the child’s attention and enthusiasm, but long enough to achieve some sort of noticeable progress. Starting the first stitches can be the most difficult part of the project, and it’s advisable to help your child by starting off the stitching yourself, anchoring the thread carefully at the back. It’s probably unnecessary to give too much information at first, but there are certain tips that can help your child enjoy stitching.
You may decide to let your child practise the basic cross-stitch on a piece of scrap material before attempting the real thing. You’ll need to explain and demonstrate that the square in the fabric matches the square in the design. You can also demonstrate allowing the needle to dangle and spin around, at regular intervals so that the thread untwists itself.
You may also encourage making each stitch in the same way, so that the top legs of the stitches go in the same direction. It’s also a good idea for children to complete each stitch before attempting the next one. The child can then see the picture growing in a satisfying way.
As with all new tasks, children learn best by having their efforts praised at regular intervals (don’t we all?). Stitching must be fun rather than being a test, a chore or a battle of wits. It’s rewarding for the child to finish the piece, rather than have you take over, even if this means that you may do some of the more difficult parts of the design and leave the last, easier stitches for the child to complete.
The finished article should be commented on in positive terms by all the family, and you could consider ironing the piece and then placing it in a frame and displaying it so that everyone can be reminded of the achievement. As well as giving the child added confidence, this can also mean that the next project will be eagerly anticipated.
Kits for children can be bought in the UK from:
Crafts Unlimited Link to: http://www.crafts-unlimited.co.uk/system/index.html
The Coleshill Collection Link to: http://www.coleshillcollection.co.uk/shop.asp?mode=cat&item=17
Chunky cross stitch for children by Pako Link to: http://www.sewandso.co.uk/ran1768-0.html
CLINTON
Comments Off
Sep
26
Filed Under (Homeschooling) by Kert
Ling Tong asked:
You can use either Aida cloth or line for Celtic cross stitch, but Aida is the preferred fabric because the holes are already in the fabric for you. It is also bets for beginners and for those who may have poor eyesight. It is available in 8, 11, 14, 16 and 18 blocks per 2.5 cm. The fabric count will tell you how many blocks there are in a standard square of Aida cloth. This fabric also comes in many different colors and you can also dye it to your preferred color. Linen has very few holes counts, which is why it is a difficult fabric for beginners to use. However, there are irregularities in linen, which gives the finished product a more unique look.
The basic stitches you need to learn for this cross stitch design are:
* X. The X stitch is the basic stitch in any cross stitch pattern. To make this stitch you first have to make a small knot in the end of the thread. Bring the needle up through one of the holes from the wrong side of the fabric so that you now have the needle on the right side. Insert the needle in the hole in the diagonal corner of the square and then bring it back up through the opposite hole. When you once again pass the needle through the corresponding diagonal hole, you have an X pattern over the square.
* /. This is the half-sticth pattern and represents one half of the basic X stitch. You simply bring the needle up through a hole and then pass it down through the hole in the diagonal corner.
* The Quarter stitch pattern is one half of the half stitch. When you bring your needle up through the hole, put it down through the fabric halfway between the hole and the one in the diagonal corner.
* A three-quarter stitch is a combination of both the half and quarter stitch designs. First you make a half stitch and then you proceed as if you were going to make a full X. Instead of making the second half of the stitch you put the needle through the middle of the half stitch.
Once you know how to make these stitches, you can create your own Celtic designs that you can use for cross stitch. You do need to have graph paper for such a project. Using a felt tip open make prominent dots in the corners of the squares on the graph paper. Highlight every second dot with a pen. Once you trace out your design in this way for the length of the sheet of paper, then you can start doing the same thing horizontally.
Use one section of the graph paper where you have five regular dots and four highlighted dots. Make sure you measure so that your square is even. Each highlighted dot will be the place where the threads intersect, so you can place a small X over these dots. Continue marking these dots with an X all the way to the border but do not mark those that lie on the line of the border. When you have all the highlighted dots crisscrossed, you can join the knot lines along the sides. You will see how they bow out towards each other. Make a double line to connect them to make your circle.
SCOT
You can use either Aida cloth or line for Celtic cross stitch, but Aida is the preferred fabric because the holes are already in the fabric for you. It is also bets for beginners and for those who may have poor eyesight. It is available in 8, 11, 14, 16 and 18 blocks per 2.5 cm. The fabric count will tell you how many blocks there are in a standard square of Aida cloth. This fabric also comes in many different colors and you can also dye it to your preferred color. Linen has very few holes counts, which is why it is a difficult fabric for beginners to use. However, there are irregularities in linen, which gives the finished product a more unique look.
The basic stitches you need to learn for this cross stitch design are:
* X. The X stitch is the basic stitch in any cross stitch pattern. To make this stitch you first have to make a small knot in the end of the thread. Bring the needle up through one of the holes from the wrong side of the fabric so that you now have the needle on the right side. Insert the needle in the hole in the diagonal corner of the square and then bring it back up through the opposite hole. When you once again pass the needle through the corresponding diagonal hole, you have an X pattern over the square.
* /. This is the half-sticth pattern and represents one half of the basic X stitch. You simply bring the needle up through a hole and then pass it down through the hole in the diagonal corner.
* The Quarter stitch pattern is one half of the half stitch. When you bring your needle up through the hole, put it down through the fabric halfway between the hole and the one in the diagonal corner.
* A three-quarter stitch is a combination of both the half and quarter stitch designs. First you make a half stitch and then you proceed as if you were going to make a full X. Instead of making the second half of the stitch you put the needle through the middle of the half stitch.
Once you know how to make these stitches, you can create your own Celtic designs that you can use for cross stitch. You do need to have graph paper for such a project. Using a felt tip open make prominent dots in the corners of the squares on the graph paper. Highlight every second dot with a pen. Once you trace out your design in this way for the length of the sheet of paper, then you can start doing the same thing horizontally.
Use one section of the graph paper where you have five regular dots and four highlighted dots. Make sure you measure so that your square is even. Each highlighted dot will be the place where the threads intersect, so you can place a small X over these dots. Continue marking these dots with an X all the way to the border but do not mark those that lie on the line of the border. When you have all the highlighted dots crisscrossed, you can join the knot lines along the sides. You will see how they bow out towards each other. Make a double line to connect them to make your circle.
SCOT
Comments Off
Sep
18
Filed Under (Web Page) by Kert
Hamidah Gul asked:
If you are bored and feel that life is passing you by without you doing anything meaningful, it’s time to pick up a needle. Don’t worry it’s got nothing to do with acupuncture or scary injections. More or less, it’s a hobby with a wonderful list of therapeutic values.
Here are my top ten reasons why you should start cross stitching today!
1. It’s a great way to focus.
Have you ever seen a cross stitch fabric? Those squares are so small that if you don’t watch what you’re doing, your fingers are going to have some pretty neat holes in them. I’ve been doing cross stitching for years now and I still occasionally suffer from a stab but I do get better as time went by. You learn to know where your finger is at all times. And that my friends, lead to an increased level of focus.
2. It teaches you the art of patience.
Have you sewed a great many stitches on your Aida and after hours of it all, you realize something is off? Somehow this corner is supposed to be ten squares for this corner and strangely there’s only one square. Guess what? You’ve miscounted the squares! Then the process of undoing the crosses begins. I’ve undone so many stitches that sometimes I am tempted to bite those threads off but I breathe in breathe out and repeat the cross stitch mantra of “What can be stitched can be unstitched”. It takes a lot of strength and patience to undo a whole lot of mess and do them all over again.
3. You learn to cover up a mess.
Remember how your mother will scream at you to sweep the floor or clean up your room, and what you did instead was sweep the dust under the rug or cramp all your toys in your closet? Cross stitch is something like that. You see, you show your final piece to people and they go ooh aah what a beautiful design! But what you don’t show is the back side of your design. All that ugly knots and strands that are cut too short or long. Well, what people don’t know won’t hurt them right?
4. It teaches you the danger of misplacing sharp objects.
This is what happens to cross stitchers who cannot keep their needles at one place. This is also the reason why needles are sold six in a pack instead of one. The manufacturers know that within one cross stitch project you are most likely to forget where you stick that darn needle. Just try to remember not to stick it on the sofa that you sit on.
5. It teaches you Math.
How many strands are needed to do a cross stitch? Six or two? Yep, you have to count and you have to remember what is left. This is why we go to school. Math is all around us. If you want your kids to learn Math, tell them to cross stitch. Plus you have to count squares! Now that’s really hard Math.
6. It teaches you to be resourceful.
When the end is near, and you find that you are missing just one color thread to finish the job, what can you do? You only need so little. Forget about buying another skein. All you need to do is to take a look at all the threads you have collected from past projects and find the closest color to the missing thread. I’ve done this plenty of times and no one had been the wiser. This also involves having a good eye as you must be able to find the closest match. This does not work if you think pink is the new green.
7. It enhances your memory retention.
When you cross stitch, you have to look at the chart, remember how many squares and where to put them. This is called Memory Retention. If you don’t have this, you’ll be referring to the chart every 5 seconds and getting a neck cramp in the process. When I first started cross stitching, I had to highlight every few squares that I’ve done. Now I still do that but only after I’ve stitched a huge section. Your memory just keeps getting better and it’s amazing! Soon, all you see around you are squares. Sorry, got a little Matrix there.
8. It is something to look forward to.
When I’m in the middle of a project, I will do it whenever I have free time. I remember bringing it to work with me or doing it in the train. I even did it at the hospital once while waiting for a sick friend. It’s just an amazing hobby to fill the time. If I’m on the way home, just thinking of doing my stitching in front of the television is a cozy thought. It’s definitely something I always look forward to.
9. You save money on gifts.
Soon the number of completed cross stitches start piling up. What will you do with them? You can read my other article “Your Cross Stitch is done, Now What?” to get some ideas. You have pretty much made all your Christmas gifts! And it’s all super personal and sweet. Isn’t this better than getting a store bought card?
10. Overwhelming sense of achievement
This is how I feel every time I finished a cross stitch design. It doesn’t matter if it’s my first, second or twentieth cross stitch. Once I’ve knotted my last stitch, I take a deep breath, look at it and say Wow. It may not be the most perfect work, but it’s my work and that’s all that matters.
BRETT
If you are bored and feel that life is passing you by without you doing anything meaningful, it’s time to pick up a needle. Don’t worry it’s got nothing to do with acupuncture or scary injections. More or less, it’s a hobby with a wonderful list of therapeutic values.
Here are my top ten reasons why you should start cross stitching today!
1. It’s a great way to focus.
Have you ever seen a cross stitch fabric? Those squares are so small that if you don’t watch what you’re doing, your fingers are going to have some pretty neat holes in them. I’ve been doing cross stitching for years now and I still occasionally suffer from a stab but I do get better as time went by. You learn to know where your finger is at all times. And that my friends, lead to an increased level of focus.
2. It teaches you the art of patience.
Have you sewed a great many stitches on your Aida and after hours of it all, you realize something is off? Somehow this corner is supposed to be ten squares for this corner and strangely there’s only one square. Guess what? You’ve miscounted the squares! Then the process of undoing the crosses begins. I’ve undone so many stitches that sometimes I am tempted to bite those threads off but I breathe in breathe out and repeat the cross stitch mantra of “What can be stitched can be unstitched”. It takes a lot of strength and patience to undo a whole lot of mess and do them all over again.
3. You learn to cover up a mess.
Remember how your mother will scream at you to sweep the floor or clean up your room, and what you did instead was sweep the dust under the rug or cramp all your toys in your closet? Cross stitch is something like that. You see, you show your final piece to people and they go ooh aah what a beautiful design! But what you don’t show is the back side of your design. All that ugly knots and strands that are cut too short or long. Well, what people don’t know won’t hurt them right?
4. It teaches you the danger of misplacing sharp objects.
This is what happens to cross stitchers who cannot keep their needles at one place. This is also the reason why needles are sold six in a pack instead of one. The manufacturers know that within one cross stitch project you are most likely to forget where you stick that darn needle. Just try to remember not to stick it on the sofa that you sit on.
5. It teaches you Math.
How many strands are needed to do a cross stitch? Six or two? Yep, you have to count and you have to remember what is left. This is why we go to school. Math is all around us. If you want your kids to learn Math, tell them to cross stitch. Plus you have to count squares! Now that’s really hard Math.
6. It teaches you to be resourceful.
When the end is near, and you find that you are missing just one color thread to finish the job, what can you do? You only need so little. Forget about buying another skein. All you need to do is to take a look at all the threads you have collected from past projects and find the closest color to the missing thread. I’ve done this plenty of times and no one had been the wiser. This also involves having a good eye as you must be able to find the closest match. This does not work if you think pink is the new green.
7. It enhances your memory retention.
When you cross stitch, you have to look at the chart, remember how many squares and where to put them. This is called Memory Retention. If you don’t have this, you’ll be referring to the chart every 5 seconds and getting a neck cramp in the process. When I first started cross stitching, I had to highlight every few squares that I’ve done. Now I still do that but only after I’ve stitched a huge section. Your memory just keeps getting better and it’s amazing! Soon, all you see around you are squares. Sorry, got a little Matrix there.
8. It is something to look forward to.
When I’m in the middle of a project, I will do it whenever I have free time. I remember bringing it to work with me or doing it in the train. I even did it at the hospital once while waiting for a sick friend. It’s just an amazing hobby to fill the time. If I’m on the way home, just thinking of doing my stitching in front of the television is a cozy thought. It’s definitely something I always look forward to.
9. You save money on gifts.
Soon the number of completed cross stitches start piling up. What will you do with them? You can read my other article “Your Cross Stitch is done, Now What?” to get some ideas. You have pretty much made all your Christmas gifts! And it’s all super personal and sweet. Isn’t this better than getting a store bought card?
10. Overwhelming sense of achievement
This is how I feel every time I finished a cross stitch design. It doesn’t matter if it’s my first, second or twentieth cross stitch. Once I’ve knotted my last stitch, I take a deep breath, look at it and say Wow. It may not be the most perfect work, but it’s my work and that’s all that matters.
BRETT
Comments Off
Sep
13
Filed Under (Art And Entertainment) by Kert
John Wigham asked:
A cross-stitch sampler is an example of this beguiling craft that has been around for almost as long as cross-stitch itself. It is a decorative piece of work designed to showcase an eye catching variety of motifs, alphabets, and stitches, thereby displaying the stitcher’s skill and creativity. Samplers are “busy” patterns with their variety of colors and elements that, when well designed, blend seamlessly into a common theme.
However, many cross-stitch lovers may like some aspects of some samplers, but they really cannot find one that fits with what they want to do. If you are one of those people, then you might wish to consider making your own cross-stitch sampler. While the task may sound daunting, it’s nowhere near as difficult as it sounds.
Use Pre-Made Samplers
The easiest way to make a sampler your own is to use a pre-designed sampler and just change a couple of elements, such as the colors; whereby you can substitute your own colors for those listed in the pattern. You may also be able to change some wording or small design features.
However, if your need is in the design elements, you can actually use a combination of pre-designed samplers. Do some shopping on the internet and in your local craft store. You can take some of the best aspects of the designs to put them into your own sampler. You can accomplish this task in a variety of ways.
In order to compile your own designs, you can photocopy patterns and then cut and paste them onto a piece of paper, coming up with an accurate count for your pattern. You might need to fill in some blank spaces and make some adjustments. You can also take a piece of graph paper and copy down each design where you want it to create your own set of elements in your cross stitch pattern.
Create Your Own From Scratch
While using other elements in the cross-stitch pattern is one way to go, you can also create your own from scratch. You may decide that you want to draw your own sampler. If you are new to cross-stitch samplers, you might need to do some research first to see how other designers have incorporated elements that you are considering using in your own sampler. One way to get started is to use some graph paper and colored pencils to build your sampler that shows off your own skill and creativity. If you want to become even more advanced in designing your own cross-stitch samplers, you can also purchase programs that allows you to create them using your computer.
Using Computer Programs
Some cross-stitchers want elements of their samplers to come from photos or images that they have sitting around. In the past it would have been challenging to convert those photos to cross-stitch patterns. Today however there are several good software programs available that even match up the colors you are considering with name brands of floss. This makes the process much easier, and does not require the effort of going to the craft store to find your colors. Also, you can size your sampler to fit your needs by seeing how large or small your sampler will be using different cross-stitch fabrics.
These same computer programs that allow you to create cross-stitch patterns also allow you to convert scanned photos and images to patterns you can use in your samplers. However, remember that a sampler is just that: a sampler. You need to show off a little bit of everything you can do, so keep those images a small part of the big picture.
By following the advice given above you’ll soon have a beautiful sampler any stitcher would be proud of. A sampler designed to display your very own creative skills and cross stitch talents.
ERNEST
A cross-stitch sampler is an example of this beguiling craft that has been around for almost as long as cross-stitch itself. It is a decorative piece of work designed to showcase an eye catching variety of motifs, alphabets, and stitches, thereby displaying the stitcher’s skill and creativity. Samplers are “busy” patterns with their variety of colors and elements that, when well designed, blend seamlessly into a common theme.
However, many cross-stitch lovers may like some aspects of some samplers, but they really cannot find one that fits with what they want to do. If you are one of those people, then you might wish to consider making your own cross-stitch sampler. While the task may sound daunting, it’s nowhere near as difficult as it sounds.
Use Pre-Made Samplers
The easiest way to make a sampler your own is to use a pre-designed sampler and just change a couple of elements, such as the colors; whereby you can substitute your own colors for those listed in the pattern. You may also be able to change some wording or small design features.
However, if your need is in the design elements, you can actually use a combination of pre-designed samplers. Do some shopping on the internet and in your local craft store. You can take some of the best aspects of the designs to put them into your own sampler. You can accomplish this task in a variety of ways.
In order to compile your own designs, you can photocopy patterns and then cut and paste them onto a piece of paper, coming up with an accurate count for your pattern. You might need to fill in some blank spaces and make some adjustments. You can also take a piece of graph paper and copy down each design where you want it to create your own set of elements in your cross stitch pattern.
Create Your Own From Scratch
While using other elements in the cross-stitch pattern is one way to go, you can also create your own from scratch. You may decide that you want to draw your own sampler. If you are new to cross-stitch samplers, you might need to do some research first to see how other designers have incorporated elements that you are considering using in your own sampler. One way to get started is to use some graph paper and colored pencils to build your sampler that shows off your own skill and creativity. If you want to become even more advanced in designing your own cross-stitch samplers, you can also purchase programs that allows you to create them using your computer.
Using Computer Programs
Some cross-stitchers want elements of their samplers to come from photos or images that they have sitting around. In the past it would have been challenging to convert those photos to cross-stitch patterns. Today however there are several good software programs available that even match up the colors you are considering with name brands of floss. This makes the process much easier, and does not require the effort of going to the craft store to find your colors. Also, you can size your sampler to fit your needs by seeing how large or small your sampler will be using different cross-stitch fabrics.
These same computer programs that allow you to create cross-stitch patterns also allow you to convert scanned photos and images to patterns you can use in your samplers. However, remember that a sampler is just that: a sampler. You need to show off a little bit of everything you can do, so keep those images a small part of the big picture.
By following the advice given above you’ll soon have a beautiful sampler any stitcher would be proud of. A sampler designed to display your very own creative skills and cross stitch talents.
ERNEST
Comments Off
Aug
25
Filed Under (Hobbies) by Kert
Yiota Christodoulou asked:
What a great way of receiving cross stitch patterns on an email or a download! Saving on postage fees and the fact that you don’t have to wait for days to receive a cross stitch chart by post is absolutely great. The only thing you need is a printer!
As many online cross stitch stores offer amazing downloadble/printable products, buyers have a great opportunity and many choices.
However there are some guidelines to help buyers make the right choice and be certain that the cross stitch chart they chose is reaching their expectations.
First browse the seller’s website and read carefully what they offer. When purchasing a cross stitch pattern you must receive the following:
* Cross stitch chart in black & white symbols or chart in color
* List of threads required
* The picture/image used to make the pattern
* The finished picture of how your cross stitch project will look like when completed (either in virtual stitches or “real” stitches.
It is very important for the seller to offer all of the above. Another way to be certain of the product’s guality is to look for any free cross stitch charts. Search the seller’s website for any free cross stitch patterns to download. Try to download a few and check out the quality. Are you happy with the result? Satisfied with the chart? Are the symbols big enough to read them? Is the pattern clear and easy to read? Is there a complete list of threads? If you are satisfied with the free cross stitch chart, then it is most likely that you will be satisfied with the products this website has to offer.
Another good way of choosing a cross stitch pattern is to look for how many colors the pattern is offering. This might seem irrelevant but it is not. In my personal opinion taking into consideration my many years of experience, the more colors the chart offers the better quality and resolution in the picture. More colors in a cross stitch pattern, it means the chart offers you details and shades. Especially if you are looking for fine art cross stitch patterns, then you definitely need more colors in the chart. However, be careful on the amount of colors used in the chart. Too many colors might be difficult to keep up with and only experienced stitchers should go for it. My opinion is that a cross stitch pattern up to 60 colors can capture a detailed image. If you don’t feel comfortable stitching a project with 150 colors, then do not buy it.
I hope this simple guide will help buyers choose a downloadable/printable cross stitch pattern with confidence.
GILBERT
What a great way of receiving cross stitch patterns on an email or a download! Saving on postage fees and the fact that you don’t have to wait for days to receive a cross stitch chart by post is absolutely great. The only thing you need is a printer!
As many online cross stitch stores offer amazing downloadble/printable products, buyers have a great opportunity and many choices.
However there are some guidelines to help buyers make the right choice and be certain that the cross stitch chart they chose is reaching their expectations.
First browse the seller’s website and read carefully what they offer. When purchasing a cross stitch pattern you must receive the following:
* Cross stitch chart in black & white symbols or chart in color
* List of threads required
* The picture/image used to make the pattern
* The finished picture of how your cross stitch project will look like when completed (either in virtual stitches or “real” stitches.
It is very important for the seller to offer all of the above. Another way to be certain of the product’s guality is to look for any free cross stitch charts. Search the seller’s website for any free cross stitch patterns to download. Try to download a few and check out the quality. Are you happy with the result? Satisfied with the chart? Are the symbols big enough to read them? Is the pattern clear and easy to read? Is there a complete list of threads? If you are satisfied with the free cross stitch chart, then it is most likely that you will be satisfied with the products this website has to offer.
Another good way of choosing a cross stitch pattern is to look for how many colors the pattern is offering. This might seem irrelevant but it is not. In my personal opinion taking into consideration my many years of experience, the more colors the chart offers the better quality and resolution in the picture. More colors in a cross stitch pattern, it means the chart offers you details and shades. Especially if you are looking for fine art cross stitch patterns, then you definitely need more colors in the chart. However, be careful on the amount of colors used in the chart. Too many colors might be difficult to keep up with and only experienced stitchers should go for it. My opinion is that a cross stitch pattern up to 60 colors can capture a detailed image. If you don’t feel comfortable stitching a project with 150 colors, then do not buy it.
I hope this simple guide will help buyers choose a downloadable/printable cross stitch pattern with confidence.
GILBERT
Comments Off
Aug
15
Filed Under (Hobbies & Crafts) by Kert
smiley asked:
I am aware that it depends on the number of stitches.Anyone aware of how much per square stitch?
KENNETH
I am aware that it depends on the number of stitches.Anyone aware of how much per square stitch?
KENNETH
Comments Off
May
27
Filed Under (Hobbies & Crafts) by Kert
felines asked:
I have, and it’s actually fun to freestyle things. I could never do counted cross-stitch, and the plastic canvas is so bulky. This is just right for needle and double-strand embroidery thread.
z3mom07470 — I use iron-on adhesive to put fabric backing on. I’ve made ornaments and bookmarks and the most ambitious project was a lighthouse-shaped bookmark. I used blue and green thread in my needle to make the water and then brushed the thread when I was done to blur the stitches. It was neat. I was proud to give it as a gift.
THERON
I have, and it’s actually fun to freestyle things. I could never do counted cross-stitch, and the plastic canvas is so bulky. This is just right for needle and double-strand embroidery thread.
z3mom07470 — I use iron-on adhesive to put fabric backing on. I’ve made ornaments and bookmarks and the most ambitious project was a lighthouse-shaped bookmark. I used blue and green thread in my needle to make the water and then brushed the thread when I was done to blur the stitches. It was neat. I was proud to give it as a gift.
THERON
