Cross Stitcher - UK (2017-02)

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Sharpen your stitching skills every month until

December with our stitch-alongclub. Join usfor our

mystery sampler! If you’re new to cross stitch, don’t

worry wehaveall the tipsyou needover the page...

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THE ESSENTIAL KIT YOU’LL NEEDTOSTART STITCHING

STRANDEDCOTTON

Embroidery thread is also called stranded cotton.

Each thread length is made up of six strands of

cotton twisted together. The chart key will tell you

how many strands you’ll need to stitch with.

EMBROIDERYSCISSORS

Embroidery scissors arean absolute must-have.

Keep yours sharp by only using themto cut threads.

NEEDLES

For basic stitching you’ll need a tapestry needle

that hasa blunttip and largeeye. Usea size 24

needle for most aidas, and a size 26 for evenweaves

and linens. Usea sharp embroidery needle for

fi ner details such as backstitch and French knots.

FABRICS

Aida is an ideal choice forcross stitch beginners.

14 countis the most common, although it’s

available in a huge variety of colours and counts.

Each cross stitch is worked over a singleaida

block, making counting and keeping your place

a cinch.

Evenweave is much simpler to work with

than you mightthink. Start with a 25 or 28count

evenweave, such as Zweigart Lugana. Once

you’re confident, try your hand at a linen version.

HOOPSANDFRAMES

Though not absolutely essential, wedo

recommend using an embroidery hoop or frame

to keep an even stitching tension.