Cross Stitching issue with stretched aida?

Question

i recently compleated a cross stitching project. It was my first large one (11x18) and all I had to use was hoops. In the process of doing my stitches the aida stretched and now my design looks crooked. Is there any way I can get the fabric to go back into shape?

Answer 1

Best way to do it is to place the aida on a cloth, the drizzle warm water over it (don't soak it too much or the colours of the threads you used may run). Gently tug the aida to remove any crookedness then place another cloth over it... Finally, place the whole "sandwich" onto an ironing board and iron the aida flat.

Also, if you plan of framing your work, the framing process will help you get any imperfections out... Place a piece of thick card behind the design and then fold over the excess aida on each end... then use thread to make a tight "zig zag" pattern from one end to the other of the excess aida... this will pull the aida tight over the card and make it easier to frame.

I have to admit also that I used to use a hoop for larger designs, but found much the same problems... I invested in a small scroll frame and it really does make things easier and cause less damage.

Answer 2

The best way is to iron it ,from the wrong side ,with a dry iron. Don't use steam. It might make the colors run.
Next time you do a cross stitch don't leave it in the hoops when you are not stitching. Best to take out and roll up.

Answer 3

You can block the cross stitch. http://www.napanet.net/~janetp/nuts/cross.html (At the bottom of the article.) http://www.serve.com/marbeth/blocking.html http://www.yarns-and.com/BlockingBds/BBohio.htm

You also might look into scroll frames or Q-snaps. They don't tend to distort the work as much. I really like my Qs. http://www.qsnap.com/