by Mouse

Created on: May 31, 2011   Last Updated: June 02, 2011

Cross stitch can be an incredibly satisfying craft. It grows quickly and looks amazing, while being an easy craft to pick up, yet provide just enough of a challenge to keep it interesting and fun. If you're new to cross stitch, then the best option to begin with, is to stitch a kit. Doing this will give you a better feel for the stitches and an idea of how different colours and shades and techniques fit together.

Most standard European kits are worked on 12 or 14 count Aida. This means that there are 12 (or 14 respectively) holes per linear inch. Now I know that sounds technical and if you're just wanting to give a prospective hobby a go, you're probably thinking 'why on Earth do I need to know this?' - well, it's basically so that you know that the higher the number Aida you go, the more holes to the linear inch and the smaller each individual cross stitch is going to turn out. Higher numbers are a bit harder to work because they're so small and it's easy to get your tension too tight and to go boss-eyed from the fabric if you're not used to it. Personally, I'd always recommend 12 Count Aida to anybody taking up cross stitch for the first time, certainly no smaller than 14 Count for a beginner, if you want to enjoy the experience without going insane.

A kit is extremely convenient for the beginner cross stitcher as it contains all the things you'll need - Aida; an embroidery needle; embroidery threads; Design chart. Now, the first thing that you need to do when you've checked that your kit is complete, is to sort your threads. Most kits come with a cardboard sorter. That being the case, you can simply write the symbol from the chart that applies to each individual colour on the inside of the card (so that you'll be able to see it later). When you've done that, separate all the threads into different piles matched by colour (you'll need really good light for this, and if you're not sure, ask someone for a second opinion - a little bit of time now will save ruining your piece later) and identify which pile relates to which colour on your chart. (Hopefully your chart will also tell you how many lengths of each colour you should have.)

When you have positively identified a colour, fold each length in half to make a loop. Thread the loop through the appropriate hole in the card and post the ends through the loop to loosely knot the thread to the card. Repeat this for all threads. NOTE: If for any reason your kit does not come with a thread sorter, you can improvise

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