by: Rini Goh
Personally, I enjoy cross stitching. It feels like I can
paint a picture using needles and threads instead of paint
and brush. And it makes me feel amazing (especially since I
know nothing about using paint and brush).
Cross stitching is easy to do. All you have to do is just to
pay attention on the charts, the symbol and your thread
color meticulously and as instructed.
When I was in the elementary school, I saw my sister doing
cross stitching. She was using canvas and synthetic wool,
and she had to cross stitch on the ront and on the
background as well for the best result.
Nowadays, we do not need to cross stitch on the
background. Fine fabrics are used these days for cross
stitching such as aida block, evenweave and linen. Fine
cotton threads, silk threads, metallic threads are also used
to add extra glamorous result on the cross stitch. There are
some more stitch techniques used for details such as French
knot, back stitch, half stitch, fractional stitch, etc.
Beads can be added too for elegance look.
What You Need for Cross Stitch
The materials you need to do cross stitching are:
1. Fabric
a. Aida Block
Aida Block is the most custom used fabric for cross
stitching. This fabric is quite stiff and forms blocks for
easy stitching and provides firm hold. It is most suitable
for beginners. Usually, the cross stitches are made over one
aida block.
b. Evenweave and Linen
Evenweave and Linen are woven in single threads, and usually
are stitched over two threads. It is perfect for detailed
designs.
c. Cross Stitch on Clothes
You can stitch on any clothes as your desire by using “waste
canvas”
2. Threads
There are several kind and brand of threads. The most common
used one is six strands cotton threads. There are also silk
threads, metallic threads, etc.
3. Needles.
The Tapestry needles are used and the size are random from
24 to 28 according to the fabric you use.
4. Scissors
You should use a sharp one to avoid damaging you fabrics and
threads.
5. Others
A pencil or marker will help you to mark your work.
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