I have no idea where to begin, but would like to learn how to cross stitch. Are there any kits out there that would teach me the basic steps? Or a video? Online classes?
2006-07-11 05:46:30 · 6 answers · asked by libraryn71 3 in Games & Recreation ➔ Hobbies & Crafts
i am an avid cross stitcher!!!
its so easy to do, just detail oriented.
go to any JoAnne's or Michaels, and you can get a little tiny thing for a few bucks...or you can get a pattern and buy what you need.
in the back of EVERY pattern book is instructions on how to do the stitches.
even if you start out with a pattern, read the instructions carefully....make sure there aren't any specialty stitches you don't know how to do (but there will be directions in the back if there are)....buy the right sized fabric 14 count is a good size to start on and very common. when you buy fabric, make sure you have an extra three inches on every side for framing purposes.
i use a hoop, but not everyone does...some people do whats called 'in hand' where they just hold the fabric. for something simple i guess that would work, but i do complicated things.
you won't need a video or classes....it really is just making little x's with string.
tips:
use a highlighter to mark your pattern after you've stitched, so you don't get lost in the pattern and so you can still see what the symbol is.
don't tie knots in your thread. to anchor it, start a stitch and pull it almost the whole way through, but leave 1/2 an inch or so, then gently finish the stitch (a whole x is best) and your string will be anchored.
don't use string any longer than 12 inches, it tends to knot up too much if you do that.
if you do get a know its usually a slip knot, pull on the loop and the loop will get smaller, then gently pull on each side of the knot and it'll come out.....you'll understand more after your first knot.
to end the string, flip over your project and wiggle the needle under some threads that have already been stitched, pull through and then snip the thread.
stay organized...always use bobbins to wrap up your thread and mark it with the number....you'll want to make sure you buy the right brand....you'll see in the pattern...DMC or Anchor are the most common and you'll usually get numbers for both.
embroidery floss comes 6 strands wrapped together, most projects require only 2 strands to be used. i have found that its best to pull out one strand at a time, though untwisting 2 at a time works too, just more knots occur that way, and you have to do it a bit slower.
have fun! its a great pasttime.
2006-07-11 06:02:24 · answer #1 · answered by ladylawyer26 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Someone suggested using a hoop to do the crosss stitch-don't use that unless you are planning to take it out of the hoop each night. The hoop will leave a ring if left in too long.
I've been cross stitching for about 15 yrs and am now using a scroll.. You can find one at JoAnn's or probably Michael's.
Have fun! Once you get started, you won't want to put it down.
2006-07-11 08:09:04 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is a cross stitch site on About.com - the link is listed below. There are lots of tutorials, plus you can email the person in charge of the site and ask questions or ask questions in the forum.
2006-07-17 03:49:43 · answer #3 · answered by IheartCrossStitch 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it really easy to do. They sell lots of kits at craft stores with simple instructions. Just pick one up and start... the more you do the better you will get
2006-07-11 05:51:15 · answer #4 · answered by lexie 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
check out about.com. They have tutorials on just about everything. You can do a search for "cross stich"
2006-07-11 05:50:40 · answer #5 · answered by victorygirl 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
go to the library and get some books on it
2006-07-11 05:51:18 · answer #6 · answered by wounderwoman44 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋