Corner Stitch Designs
Cross Stitch
www.cornerstitchesigns.com
Instructions
If you bought our kit, it contains fabric, floss, and needle as described below. If you bought a chart, you supply the materials. Either way, the how-to’s are provided here.
FABRIC
The kit contains 14 count, 100% cotton, fabric. It is an even weave aida which is specifically designed for cross stitch. You’ll note the small holes at the corner of each “box”, which allows the needle to pass through easily.
FLOSS
The kit includes 100% cotton six stranded embroidery floss from DMC. Use the number of strands for stitching indicated in the instructions. When using more than one strand of floss, it should be separated from the “bundle” of six individually before stitching. Separate the colors of floss before you begin. The number of strands of each color are indicated to help in separation.
NEEDLE
Included in our kit is a number 24 tapestry needle.
HOOP OR FRAME
A hoop or frame is recommended as it will help keep consistent tension.
HOW TO START
Find the center of the fabric by folding it in quarters. Mark the center temporarily with a pin. Find the center of the chart by following the arrows on the sides of the chart. Start stitching as close to the center as possible. You may have to count stitches to one side of center to begin.
Choose the color of floss that is indicated by the symbol. Thread the correct number of strands through the needle, and begin. DO NOT KNOT THE THREAD. As you pull the thread through the fabric from back to front for the first time, keep a “tail” of about an inch on the back. Hold the tail with the index finger of your non-stitching hand until the first few stitches have caught and held it. As you finish the thread, weave or whip it through the last 4 or 5 stitches and clip the ends. Clip the ends of the floss as you go to avoid a jumble that may affect the appearance of the front of your work.
Full cross stitch - There are two methods. For most cross stitching work first a row of half stitches (diagonal - //////), then work back, slanting the diagonal in the opposite direction (\\\\\\\) to form an X. For vertical rows work each X as you go. It is important that the top stitch of the X slant the same direction throughout the piece. The general recommendation is that the bottom stitch be worked from lower left to upper right and return in the opposite direction. However you choose to stitch, be consistent.
Full Cross Stitch graphic:
Half Stitch is a single diagonal (/), or half a cross stitch.
Quarter Stitch is just that, 1/4 of an X. Come up in the corner indicated by the placement of the symbol, and go down through the fabric in the center of the box, making a new hole by separating the threads of the fabric.
Backstitching is used to outline, give definition, or for lettering. The chart below shows how each time you move forward, you back up one stitch. Backstitching may travel in any direction. When using a single strand for back stitch, catch the tail of your floss by bringing your needle up on opposite sides of the floss until secured.
FINISHING
When your stitching is complete, rinse in cool water with a mild liquid detergent. After rinsing thoroughly, place your work face down on a terry towel. Place another cloth on top and press with a warm iron. Let dry completely. Frame or finish as desired.