by Shirley Glaze

Created on: July 22, 2008

Cross stitch is a special type of needlework that creates a design from a deliberate pattern of Xs. Cross stitch patterns serve as a guide for those who cross stitch. The pattern is one of the most important aspects of cross stitching. Patterns should be selected with care and followed carefully.

The pattern serves as your guide. It is similar to a map. So, you will need to learn to read your pattern in order to cross stitch effectively. Since, most patterns follow the same format (or contain instructions), once you learn to read a pattern you will be able to stitch countless designs.

Learn the Layout
Cross stitch patterns are written on grids that look like the graph paper that you used in school. Each square (or box) represents a complete stitch (which is one X).

Know the Difficulty
The characteristics of the pattern will allow you to determine its' difficulty. Patterns that have a lot of detail are generally more difficult. Patterns that cover many pages are usually difficult. If you are a beginner choose patterns that have squares that are bigger. These patterns are easier to read and easier to stitch.

Find the Middle
Always take the time to find the middle square of your pattern. The middle square is important because it gives you a place to come back to if you get lost. In order to do this you will first need to count the number of rows that you have in the pattern. Then divide the total number by two to find the middle row. Now count the number of columns in your pattern. Then divide the total number of columns by two to find the middle column. Find the middle column and middle row in your pattern. Trace the row and the pattern with your fingers until you reach one square. Shade that square with a pencil. This is the middle square.

Most patterns also designate the middle of the pattern with arrows that point toward the center. Simply follow the arrows that are displayed on the rows and columns to find the middle square. Please remember to shade the square that you are using as the middle. Sometimes patterns do not clearly designate the middle and it may be difficult to find the square that you used as the middle after you have started stitching.

Know Your Colors
The pattern will show you the colors that compose a design. If your pattern is in color each box will be shaded with the color that should be used for that particular stitch. If your pattern is not in color, symbols will be used to specify the color of thread that should be use for a stitch.

Determine

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