Cross Stitch Tips: Beginner Lessons Learned

In my last post I wrote about my latest project, a very special special cross stitch project.  This is the first time I have experimented with cross stitch.  A few pin pricks and mistakes later I have learned a few things that would make cross stitch easier for a beginner.

• There are two main forms of cross stitch, the first is stamped cross stitch.  This is the type of project i am currently working on.  It is much easier for beginners as there is a print on the canvas to guide your stitches.  The other form counted cross stitch gives you more deign freedom but takes more skill.
• Separate the thread (typically comprised of 6 strands).  Depending on the tightness of the canvas weave you should divide the wider thread and make either 2 or 3 strand sets.  Straighten and unwind the threads before using.  If you leave them even slightly curly/kinky it is more likely a tangle will form when working.
• Buy a needle threader!  I can not emphasize this enough.  I try my best to conserve my resources when crafting so I tend to avoid some of the "make it easier" accessories.  On more than one occasion I have passed over a needle threader in craft stores.  Why spend even a few dollars on something I can do without. right? WRONG! It is easy to loose your sanity trying to thread a needle with the multiple strands cross stitch thread.  There was a needle threader in the bag with Donna's cross stitch and I never want to work without one again.
•  If a tangle begins to form, do not pull the thread taunt.  Use the needle to separate the threads and determine how to undo the tangle without pulling it into a knot. One way to limit tangles is to cut your thread to a reasonable length.  I have found that it is much easier to work with thread pieces 1 8inches or less.
• Use a hoop (also referred to as a fabric stretcher).  While some experienced cross stitchers can create a masterpiece without placing it in a loop, I think it is an important tool.  These loops are designed to pull the fabric taunt and allow for even well placed stitches.  Be careful not to pull the fabric so taunt that it tears or damages the threads, but it should be tight enough to bounce a penny on.
• When you are done working for the day remove the loop.  Leaving the work in the loop for too long can damage the stitches, fabric, and even warp the loops themselves.
• Make sure you can see... this seems like common sense but one of the first obstacles I came up against was poor lighting.  The patterns may seem easy to follow at first but as your eyes get tired low light can easily lead to a mistake.  Some people also find it helpful to purchase a lighted magnifying accessory in order to aid in completing these tiny stitches and patterns. 
• Our final tip was brought to us by our reader Bobbie: "Make sure all of your Xs are going in the same direction. That the top stitch is always tilted in the same direction. This is what makes a huge difference in the end result of your piece." (Thanks Bobbie for the advice).

I hope to share some more insight as I learn this new craft.  Please feel free to share any other tips and tricks you find helpful while cross stitching.  Here is a picture of my progress so far... I'm excited all those little blue Xs are starting to come to life.