Cross Stitch Blog
Tips, beginner guides and pattern ideas to help you stitch with confidence.
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How to Finish Cross Stitch in a Hoop: Step by Step
Turn a finished piece into a hanging hoop with a tidy back: choosing the hoop, centering, trimming, gathering and adding felt.
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How to Wash and Iron Cross Stitch Without Ruining It
A gentle wash that removes hoop marks and grime, what to do if a color runs, and how to iron so the…
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How to Backstitch in Cross Stitch (and Make French Knots)
Neat backstitch outlines step by step, the best thread to use, and how to make round French knots that stay put.
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Three-Quarter, Half and Quarter Stitches in Cross Stitch
How fractional stitches look on a chart and how to stitch three-quarter, half and quarter stitches neatly, even on Aida.
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Cross Stitch Fabric Count Explained: Aida 11, 14, 16 and 18
What the count on a piece of fabric means, how it changes the size of your design, and how to choose between…
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How to Read a Cross Stitch Pattern: A Beginner’s Guide
Grid, symbols, the key, the center arrows and multi-page charts, explained in plain words so you can start any pattern with confidence.
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Pattern Keeper App: What It Is, How to Use It, iPad, PC and Cost
Everything about the Pattern Keeper cross stitch app: features, iPhone and iPad, PC, price, which PDF patterns work, and how to start.
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Cross Stitch vs Embroidery vs Needlepoint: What’s the Difference?
Fabric, thread, stitches and coverage compared side by side, and which one is easiest for beginners.
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How Many Strands for Cross Stitch? A Chart for Every Fabric Count
The number of floss strands to use on 11, 14, 16, 18-count Aida and linen, for cross stitch, backstitch and French knots.