Glossary

a
Aida

The most common fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas. used for cross stitch, and the best one to use for your first project. It is woven into blocks marked out by regularly-spaced holes. Use these holes to work your cross stitches. AidaThe most common fabric used for cross stitch, and the best one to use for your first project. It is woven into blocks marked out by regularly-spaced holes. Use these holes to work your cross stitches. Aida is sold in various sizes or counts. The most popular size is 14-count. is sold in various sizes or counts. The most popular size is 14-count.

Aida Band

This is a narrow strip of aidaThe most common fabric used for cross stitch, and the best one to use for your first project. It is woven into blocks marked out by regularly-spaced holes. Use these holes to work your cross stitches. Aida is sold in various sizes or counts. The most popular size is 14-count. that has been finished off with a decorative trimming. It is handy for adding a cross stitch design to a towel or curtain tieback.

Assisi work

A type of stitching where the outline is stitched first and then the background is filled in with cross stitch, leaving the area inside the outline 'void' or unstitched.

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Backstitch

This is an outlining stitch that is used to add final details to a design over the top of the cross stitch. It is worked in a 'two steps forward, one step back' motion.

Balger

This was the name of a firm that made threads. Hence, many threads are known as BalgerThis was the name of a firm that made threads. Hence, many threads are known as Balger Filaments. Today Kreinik has the use of that name. Hence many Kreinik threads have a number starting with a "B". Often they are labeled BF which could stand for Blending Filament or Balger Filament. Others may be seen as, say, B5200. Filaments. Today Kreinik has the use of that name. Hence many Kreinik threads have a number starting with a "B". Often they are labeled BF which could stand for Blending Filament or Balger Filament. Others may be seen as, say, B5200.

Binca

A fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas. with a low stitch countThis refers to the number of holes there are per inch of fabric. It can vary from 6- to 55- count. The higher the number, the smaller your cross stitches will be, so choose a size that you're comfortable with. The most popular size in cross stitch is 14-count aida, and this is usually stitched in two strands. Try comparing this with 16- and 18-count to see which one you like best.. It is really useful for teaching children to stitch, as well as adults who may have problems with their eyesight and not be able to see very clearly.

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Chart

A grid or graph of symbols or colours that represents the stranded cottonThis is the most popular thread used for cross stitch and is sold as a skein. The thread is made up of six divisible strands. Pull out one, two or more strands to stitch a design, as directed in the key. colours, metallic threads, beads etc of the design. A key lists the symbols and the thread number used, as well as a list of materials and instructions.

Count

This refers to the number of holes there are per inch of fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas.. It can vary from 6- to 55- countThis refers to the number of holes there are per inch of fabric. It can vary from 6- to 55- count. The higher the number, the smaller your cross stitches will be, so choose a size that you're comfortable with. The most popular size in cross stitch is 14-count aida, and this is usually stitched in two strands. Try comparing this with 16- and 18-count to see which one you like best.. The higher the number, the smaller your cross stitches will be, so choose a size that you're comfortable with. The most popular size in cross stitch is 14-count aidaThe most common fabric used for cross stitch, and the best one to use for your first project. It is woven into blocks marked out by regularly-spaced holes. Use these holes to work your cross stitches. Aida is sold in various sizes or counts. The most popular size is 14-count., and this is usually stitched in two strands. Try comparing this with 16- and 18-count to see which one you like best.

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Daylight bulb

A special bulb that looks like an ordinary tungsten bulb but is moulded in blue glass which filters out the yellow light, thus giving a more natural light that is easier to stitch by.

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Ecru

This color is similar to the color of raw silk, cotton or linenLinen is an ideal fabric for creating an authentic-looking sampler or an heirloom piece you hope will last for years. It is an evenweave fabric that is woven from fibres found in the stem of the flax plant. The threads alternate between thick and thin throughout the weave. The thick part is known as the slub and gives the fabric a wonderful texture that sets off a cross stitch design really well..

Evenweave

A general term for fabrics that can be used for cross stitch instead of aidaThe most common fabric used for cross stitch, and the best one to use for your first project. It is woven into blocks marked out by regularly-spaced holes. Use these holes to work your cross stitches. Aida is sold in various sizes or counts. The most popular size is 14-count.. These are more loosely-woven and less stiff than aida, and come in a high countThis refers to the number of holes there are per inch of fabric. It can vary from 6- to 55- count. The higher the number, the smaller your cross stitches will be, so choose a size that you're comfortable with. The most popular size in cross stitch is 14-count aida, and this is usually stitched in two strands. Try comparing this with 16- and 18-count to see which one you like best. such as 28- or 32-count. They are stitched over two threads. LindaLinda is a 100% cotton evenweave fabric made by Zweigart for DMC that is available in 6 shades in a 27-count. It is an ideal fabric to choose for a first project on evenweave., jobelanJobelan is an evenweave fabric made from 51% cotton and 49% modal. It has very regularly spaced holes that are easy to see, making it ideal for a first project on evenweave. It drapes well and can be used for table linen as well as samplers and pictures. There are 53 shades to choose from in 28-count jobelan. You can buy it from Fabric Flair stockists. and linenLinen is an ideal fabric for creating an authentic-looking sampler or an heirloom piece you hope will last for years. It is an evenweave fabric that is woven from fibres found in the stem of the flax plant. The threads alternate between thick and thin throughout the weave. The thick part is known as the slub and gives the fabric a wonderful texture that sets off a cross stitch design really well. are three popular types of evenweaveA general term for fabrics that can be used for cross stitch instead of aida. These are more loosely-woven and less stiff than aida, and come in a high count such as 28- or 32-count. They are stitched over two threads. Linda, jobelan and linen are three popular types of evenweave..

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Fabric

The material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas. is aidaThe most common fabric used for cross stitch, and the best one to use for your first project. It is woven into blocks marked out by regularly-spaced holes. Use these holes to work your cross stitches. Aida is sold in various sizes or counts. The most popular size is 14-count. though evenweaveA general term for fabrics that can be used for cross stitch instead of aida. These are more loosely-woven and less stiff than aida, and come in a high count such as 28- or 32-count. They are stitched over two threads. Linda, jobelan and linen are three popular types of evenweave. and linenLinen is an ideal fabric for creating an authentic-looking sampler or an heirloom piece you hope will last for years. It is an evenweave fabric that is woven from fibres found in the stem of the flax plant. The threads alternate between thick and thin throughout the weave. The thick part is known as the slub and gives the fabric a wonderful texture that sets off a cross stitch design really well. can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paperPerforated paper is a thin card that is punched with a grid of holes. It is available in a 14-count and can be stitched just like aida. It is ideal for Victorian-style cards, tree decorations and children's mobiles. Use three strands for the best coverage and handle it gently because it can tear. or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvasUse waste canvas when you want to stitch a design on a non-stitching fabric, such as a tee-shirt or a hat. Tack the waste canvas over the area to be stitched, and stitch through the waste canvas holes onto the fabric beneath. Then pull out the waste canvas threads to reveal the design beneath..

Flexi-hoop

This is similar to an embroidery hoopAn embroidery hoop is a round frame made of wood or plastic. This has an outer and an inner ring that hold your fabric taut while you are stitching. Stitching with a hoop can help to keep your stitches neat and even.. It can be used either to hold your work while you stitch or as a simple plastic frame because it has a hanging loop at the top. You can buy round, square and oval flexi-hoops.

Flexi-hoop

This is similar to an embroidery hoopAn embroidery hoop is a round frame made of wood or plastic. This has an outer and an inner ring that hold your fabric taut while you are stitching. Stitching with a hoop can help to keep your stitches neat and even.. It can be used either to hold your work while you stitch or as a simple plastic frame because it has a hanging loop at the top. You can buy round, square and oval flexi-hoops.

Floss

This is the American term for stranded cottonThis is the most popular thread used for cross stitch and is sold as a skein. The thread is made up of six divisible strands. Pull out one, two or more strands to stitch a design, as directed in the key..

Flower thread

A fine cotton yarnCross stitch can be worked in yarn on a larger count fabric such as 6-count Binca. Any type of wool is ideal for introducing children to cross stitch, as the yarn is non divisible and can be threaded straight onto a needle. that is used to achieve a subtle effect in cross stitch, typically when stitching delicate designs of flowers. It cannot be divided into strands.

Fractional stitches

A modified form of cross stitch used by designers to create more natural-looking shapes and outlines on a chartA grid or graph of symbols or colours that represents the stranded cotton colours, metallic threads, beads etc of the design. A key lists the symbols and the thread number used, as well as a list of materials and instructions. . Look out for half, three-quarter and quarter stitches. Half cross stitches are usually given a separate symbol in the key; three-quarter and quarter stitches are shown by a tiny version of the cross stitch symbol in the corner of a square

French knot

A knot used in cross stitch to add detail to designs. They are particularly useful for such things as eyes, noses, punctuation and for adding detail to flowers.

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Graph paper

If you wish to design you own pictures then graph paperIf you wish to design you own pictures then graph paper is essential. You can buy ordinary graph paper from stationers or special cross stitching graph paper which comes in various counts such as 14- and 18-count. is essential. You can buy ordinary graph paper from stationers or special cross stitching graph paper which comes in various counts such as 14- and 18-count.

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Half cross stitch

Used by designers in addition to full cross stitch to add depth and dimension to their cross stitch designs. Half cross stitchUsed by designers in addition to full cross stitch to add depth and dimension to their cross stitch designs. Half cross stitch should be worked in the direction of the top arm of the cross stitch so that it ties in with the rest of the design. should be worked in the direction of the top arm of the cross stitch so that it ties in with the rest of the design.

Half cross stitch

Used by designers in addition to full cross stitch to add depth and dimension to their cross stitch designs. Half cross stitchUsed by designers in addition to full cross stitch to add depth and dimension to their cross stitch designs. Half cross stitch should be worked in the direction of the top arm of the cross stitch so that it ties in with the rest of the design. should be worked in the direction of the top arm of the cross stitch so that it ties in with the rest of the design.

Holbein stitch

Holbein stitchHolbein stitch is sometimes known as double running stitch. You work a row of running stitch in one direction and then work your way back, with a second row, filling in all the gaps. is sometimes known as double running stitch. You work a row of running stitch in one direction and then work your way back, with a second row, filling in all the gaps.

Hoop

An embroidery hoopAn embroidery hoop is a round frame made of wood or plastic. This has an outer and an inner ring that hold your fabric taut while you are stitching. Stitching with a hoop can help to keep your stitches neat and even. is a round frame made of wood or plastic. This has an outer and an inner ring that hold your fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas. taut while you are stitching. Stitching with a hoop can help to keep your stitches neat and even.

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Iron on vilene

A material used for backing finished cross stitch designs to stop fraying and make them easier to handle when mounting. Generally used for small items such as designs for handbag mirrors, coasters and keyrings.

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Jobelan

JobelanJobelan is an evenweave fabric made from 51% cotton and 49% modal. It has very regularly spaced holes that are easy to see, making it ideal for a first project on evenweave. It drapes well and can be used for table linen as well as samplers and pictures. There are 53 shades to choose from in 28-count jobelan. You can buy it from Fabric Flair stockists. is an evenweaveA general term for fabrics that can be used for cross stitch instead of aida. These are more loosely-woven and less stiff than aida, and come in a high count such as 28- or 32-count. They are stitched over two threads. Linda, jobelan and linen are three popular types of evenweave. fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas. made from 51% cotton and 49% modal. It has very regularly spaced holes that are easy to see, making it ideal for a first project on evenweave. It drapes well and can be used for table linenLinen is an ideal fabric for creating an authentic-looking sampler or an heirloom piece you hope will last for years. It is an evenweave fabric that is woven from fibres found in the stem of the flax plant. The threads alternate between thick and thin throughout the weave. The thick part is known as the slub and gives the fabric a wonderful texture that sets off a cross stitch design really well. as well as samplers and pictures. There are 53 shades to choose from in 28-countThis refers to the number of holes there are per inch of fabric. It can vary from 6- to 55- count. The higher the number, the smaller your cross stitches will be, so choose a size that you're comfortable with. The most popular size in cross stitch is 14-count aida, and this is usually stitched in two strands. Try comparing this with 16- and 18-count to see which one you like best. jobelan. You can buy it from Fabric Flair stockists.

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Knots

KnotsKnots can cause problems when you are stitching, suddenly appearing in your thread. In fact, they are not actually proper knots but just very tightly twisted thread. If one appears, take your needle and insert it into one of the loops of the knot and pull gently. You should find that this releases the 'knot' and you can carry on stitching. can cause problems when you are stitching, suddenly appearing in your thread. In fact, they are not actually proper knots but just very tightly twisted thread. If one appears, take your needle and insert it into one of the loops of the knot and pull gently. You should find that this releases the 'knot' and you can carry on stitching.

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Linda

LindaLinda is a 100% cotton evenweave fabric made by Zweigart for DMC that is available in 6 shades in a 27-count. It is an ideal fabric to choose for a first project on evenweave. is a 100% cotton evenweaveA general term for fabrics that can be used for cross stitch instead of aida. These are more loosely-woven and less stiff than aida, and come in a high count such as 28- or 32-count. They are stitched over two threads. Linda, jobelan and linen are three popular types of evenweave. fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas. made by ZweigartZweigart is a well known manufacturer of stitching fabric. There are a fantastic range of colours, fabrics and count. Visit your nearest stockist to ask about the range available. for DMC that is available in 6 shades in a 27-countThis refers to the number of holes there are per inch of fabric. It can vary from 6- to 55- count. The higher the number, the smaller your cross stitches will be, so choose a size that you're comfortable with. The most popular size in cross stitch is 14-count aida, and this is usually stitched in two strands. Try comparing this with 16- and 18-count to see which one you like best.. It is an ideal fabric to choose for a first project on evenweave.

Linen

LinenLinen is an ideal fabric for creating an authentic-looking sampler or an heirloom piece you hope will last for years. It is an evenweave fabric that is woven from fibres found in the stem of the flax plant. The threads alternate between thick and thin throughout the weave. The thick part is known as the slub and gives the fabric a wonderful texture that sets off a cross stitch design really well. is an ideal fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas. for creating an authentic-looking sampler or an heirloom piece you hope will last for years. It is an evenweaveA general term for fabrics that can be used for cross stitch instead of aida. These are more loosely-woven and less stiff than aida, and come in a high count such as 28- or 32-count. They are stitched over two threads. Linda, jobelan and linen are three popular types of evenweave. fabric that is woven from fibres found in the stem of the flax plant. The threads alternate between thick and thin throughout the weave. The thick part is known as the slub and gives the fabric a wonderful texture that sets off a cross stitch design really well.

Loop method

Try this method of starting off when stitching with an even number of strands. Fold the cotton in half to thread your needle, then bring the thread up through the fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas. to start. Take the needle down again and push it through the loop. Pull it taut and it will be secured.

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Metallic thread

This thread can be used to great effect alongside stranded cottonThis is the most popular thread used for cross stitch and is sold as a skein. The thread is made up of six divisible strands. Pull out one, two or more strands to stitch a design, as directed in the key. to highlight parts of a design. It is available in typical metallic colours - for example, gold, silver, or bronze - and is available as a stranded skein or on a reel.

Mount board

This is the best material to use when stretching your stitching ready to put in a frame. It consists of a strong card and is best used with the white side facing up. Ask your framer for acid-free mount boardThis is the best material to use when stretching your stitching ready to put in a frame. It consists of a strong card and is best used with the white side facing up. Ask your framer for acid-free mount board to protect your stitching from becoming stained over time. to protect your stitching from becoming stained over time.

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Needles

NeedlesNeedles are essential for cross stitching. It is a good idea to have a selection of tapestry needles in different sizes in your workbox for the different sizes of fabric you use. Other useful needles include a crewel needle for working with waste canvas, and beading needles, which are much finer for adding beads to your designs. are essential for cross stitching. It is a good idea to have a selection of tapestry needles in different sizes in your workbox for the different sizes of fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas. you use. Other useful needles include a crewel needle for working with waste canvasUse waste canvas when you want to stitch a design on a non-stitching fabric, such as a tee-shirt or a hat. Tack the waste canvas over the area to be stitched, and stitch through the waste canvas holes onto the fabric beneath. Then pull out the waste canvas threads to reveal the design beneath., and beading needles, which are much finer for adding beads to your designs.

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Overdyed threads

These are specialist threads where a pre-dyed single colour thread is taken and 'overdyed' with other colours with stunning results.

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Perforated paper

Perforated paperPerforated paper is a thin card that is punched with a grid of holes. It is available in a 14-count and can be stitched just like aida. It is ideal for Victorian-style cards, tree decorations and children's mobiles. Use three strands for the best coverage and handle it gently because it can tear. is a thin card that is punched with a grid of holes. It is available in a 14-countThis refers to the number of holes there are per inch of fabric. It can vary from 6- to 55- count. The higher the number, the smaller your cross stitches will be, so choose a size that you're comfortable with. The most popular size in cross stitch is 14-count aida, and this is usually stitched in two strands. Try comparing this with 16- and 18-count to see which one you like best. and can be stitched just like aidaThe most common fabric used for cross stitch, and the best one to use for your first project. It is woven into blocks marked out by regularly-spaced holes. Use these holes to work your cross stitches. Aida is sold in various sizes or counts. The most popular size is 14-count.. It is ideal for Victorian-style cards, tree decorations and children's mobiles. Use three strands for the best coverage and handle it gently because it can tear.

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Q & A

The best way to become a better stitcher is to ask lots of questions. If you have a stitching problem that really 'bugs you!' why not visit our Stitching forums and ask other stitchers to help you?

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Rice stitch

Rice stitchRice stitch is a variation on simple cross stitch. On an open or larger holed fabric it gives the appearance of denser cover, because the reverse side stitching shows through more. It can also be used to produce interesting textures using subtly different all highly contrasting colour. is a variation on simple cross stitch. On an open or larger holed fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas. it gives the appearance of denser cover, because the reverse side stitching shows through more. It can also be used to produce interesting textures using subtly different all highly contrasting colour.

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Stitching over two

When stitching a design on an evenweaveA general term for fabrics that can be used for cross stitch instead of aida. These are more loosely-woven and less stiff than aida, and come in a high count such as 28- or 32-count. They are stitched over two threads. Linda, jobelan and linen are three popular types of evenweave. fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas., such as 28-countThis refers to the number of holes there are per inch of fabric. It can vary from 6- to 55- count. The higher the number, the smaller your cross stitches will be, so choose a size that you're comfortable with. The most popular size in cross stitch is 14-count aida, and this is usually stitched in two strands. Try comparing this with 16- and 18-count to see which one you like best. jobelanJobelan is an evenweave fabric made from 51% cotton and 49% modal. It has very regularly spaced holes that are easy to see, making it ideal for a first project on evenweave. It drapes well and can be used for table linen as well as samplers and pictures. There are 53 shades to choose from in 28-count jobelan. You can buy it from Fabric Flair stockists., work each cross stitch over two threads of the fabric. This means you should count across and up two holes instead of only one to make each half of the stitch. This will make your design come out the same size as it would on 14-count aidaThe most common fabric used for cross stitch, and the best one to use for your first project. It is woven into blocks marked out by regularly-spaced holes. Use these holes to work your cross stitches. Aida is sold in various sizes or counts. The most popular size is 14-count.. Try counting 'one, two' each time you make a stitch until you get the hang of it.

Stranded cotton

This is the most popular thread used for cross stitch and is sold as a skein. The thread is made up of six divisible strands. Pull out one, two or more strands to stitch a design, as directed in the key.

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Tapestry needle

This is the best needle to use for stitching a design on aidaThe most common fabric used for cross stitch, and the best one to use for your first project. It is woven into blocks marked out by regularly-spaced holes. Use these holes to work your cross stitches. Aida is sold in various sizes or counts. The most popular size is 14-count. or evenweaveA general term for fabrics that can be used for cross stitch instead of aida. These are more loosely-woven and less stiff than aida, and come in a high count such as 28- or 32-count. They are stitched over two threads. Linda, jobelan and linen are three popular types of evenweave.. It has a blunt end that will pass smoothly through the holes of the fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas. without damaging it.

Tweeding

TweedingTweeding is a technique where two or more colours of thread are used in the needle at the same time to give a subtle blending of the colours. is a technique where two or more colours of thread are used in the needle at the same time to give a subtle blending of the colours.

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Unbleached

UnbleachedUnbleached threads are available for stitchers wishing to experiment at dying their own threads. threads are available for stitchers wishing to experiment at dying their own threads.

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Wadding

This is a spongy material that is used to stuff such items as a pin cushion or is put behind a design to make it stand out well in a card or frame. It is available in several weights and is also known as batting.

Waste canvas

Use waste canvasUse waste canvas when you want to stitch a design on a non-stitching fabric, such as a tee-shirt or a hat. Tack the waste canvas over the area to be stitched, and stitch through the waste canvas holes onto the fabric beneath. Then pull out the waste canvas threads to reveal the design beneath. when you want to stitch a design on a non-stitching fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas., such as a tee-shirt or a hat. Tack the waste canvasUse waste canvas when you want to stitch a design on a non-stitching fabric, such as a tee-shirt or a hat. Tack the waste canvas over the area to be stitched, and stitch through the waste canvas holes onto the fabric beneath. Then pull out the waste canvas threads to reveal the design beneath. over the area to be stitched, and stitch through the waste canvas holes onto the fabric beneath. Then pull out the waste canvas threads to reveal the design beneath.

Waste canvas

Use waste canvasUse waste canvas when you want to stitch a design on a non-stitching fabric, such as a tee-shirt or a hat. Tack the waste canvas over the area to be stitched, and stitch through the waste canvas holes onto the fabric beneath. Then pull out the waste canvas threads to reveal the design beneath. when you want to stitch a design on a non-stitching fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas., such as a tee-shirt or a hat. Tack the waste canvasUse waste canvas when you want to stitch a design on a non-stitching fabric, such as a tee-shirt or a hat. Tack the waste canvas over the area to be stitched, and stitch through the waste canvas holes onto the fabric beneath. Then pull out the waste canvas threads to reveal the design beneath. over the area to be stitched, and stitch through the waste canvas holes onto the fabric beneath. Then pull out the waste canvas threads to reveal the design beneath.

Waste knot

A method of starting your stitching when there is no where else to anchor your thread. Tie a small knot in the end of your thread and take the needle down through the fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas., slightly away from where you are going to start stitching. Now bring the needle up at the position on the fabric where you wish the first stitch to be and stitch as normal. The thread at the back of the work will be secured as you work your design and you will then be able to cut off the waste knotA method of starting your stitching when there is no where else to anchor your thread. Tie a small knot in the end of your thread and take the needle down through the fabric, slightly away from where you are going to start stitching. Now bring the needle up at the position on the fabric where you wish the first stitch to be and stitch as normal. The thread at the back of the work will be secured as you work your design and you will then be able to cut off the waste knot..

Waste knot

A method of starting your stitching when there is no where else to anchor your thread. Tie a small knot in the end of your thread and take the needle down through the fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas., slightly away from where you are going to start stitching. Now bring the needle up at the position on the fabric where you wish the first stitch to be and stitch as normal. The thread at the back of the work will be secured as you work your design and you will then be able to cut off the waste knotA method of starting your stitching when there is no where else to anchor your thread. Tie a small knot in the end of your thread and take the needle down through the fabric, slightly away from where you are going to start stitching. Now bring the needle up at the position on the fabric where you wish the first stitch to be and stitch as normal. The thread at the back of the work will be secured as you work your design and you will then be able to cut off the waste knot..

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X-stitch

Your favourite hobby!

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Yarn

Cross stitch can be worked in yarnCross stitch can be worked in yarn on a larger count fabric such as 6-count Binca. Any type of wool is ideal for introducing children to cross stitch, as the yarn is non divisible and can be threaded straight onto a needle. on a larger countThis refers to the number of holes there are per inch of fabric. It can vary from 6- to 55- count. The higher the number, the smaller your cross stitches will be, so choose a size that you're comfortable with. The most popular size in cross stitch is 14-count aida, and this is usually stitched in two strands. Try comparing this with 16- and 18-count to see which one you like best. fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas. such as 6-count BincaA fabric with a low stitch count. It is really useful for teaching children to stitch, as well as adults who may have problems with their eyesight and not be able to see very clearly. . Any type of wool is ideal for introducing children to cross stitch, as the yarn is non divisible and can be threaded straight onto a needle.

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Zweigart

ZweigartZweigart is a well known manufacturer of stitching fabric. There are a fantastic range of colours, fabrics and count. Visit your nearest stockist to ask about the range available. is a well known manufacturer of stitching fabricThe material on which cross stitch is made, of the fabric is aida though evenweave and linen can also be used. Fabrics come in many colours and many counts. It can also be made of perforated paper or plastic. Only fabric especially made for cross stitching should be used for stitching, because the even spacing of the threads is very important – each type of fabric is made up of holes of an even stitch count. To stitch on other fabrics you can use waste canvas.. There are a fantastic range of colours, fabrics and countThis refers to the number of holes there are per inch of fabric. It can vary from 6- to 55- count. The higher the number, the smaller your cross stitches will be, so choose a size that you're comfortable with. The most popular size in cross stitch is 14-count aida, and this is usually stitched in two strands. Try comparing this with 16- and 18-count to see which one you like best.. Visit your nearest stockist to ask about the range available.