So you want to learn to X Stitch.  Let's begin by deciding which type of material to use and what size. The majority of cross stitch patterns has 14 stitches per 1 inch and uses 2 strands of floss for the main picture while 1 strand of floss for the backstitch is used to outline a design or put in accent areas within the picture itself.  Most patterns encourage using 14 count Aida or 28 count linen and a size 24 tapestry needle.

Now you have your material, you will want to match the center of your pattern with the center of your material.  To determine where to begin X stitching, count the same number of pattern squares as the same number of fabric squares (remember 1 pattern square=1 Aida square or 2 threads of linen) to your starting point.

If you are using linen, start below and left of a vertical thread for the following reasons:  1. It has a larger hole and is easier to find.  2. The vertical thread gives the floss support and you will have a prettier stitch.  3.  If your needle is not beside a vertical thread, it may cause you to have a counting error and you will not be able to go back and correct it.

When working with your hoop, have the screw area positioned at 10:00 if you are right-handed; or at 2:00 if you are left-handed.  Always remove the hoop when you are not working on your X stitch, this will help decrease the possibility of creasing your design.  Also remember to remove the needle to avoid possible rust marks in your design.  You will want to roll excess linen in on itself in order to reach the area you are currently working in.

You can use one of 2 ways to begin or end the threads.  The first method is the Loop Method (only used when even numbers of floss strands are called for). Take one 30" long strand and fold it in half; put both ends through the eye of the needle and make the first half of a stitch.  Once you go back through your material, pull the needle and floss through the loop  and securely anchor the floss without wrinkling your fabric.  The second method is to hold the beginning end of the thread up out of the way and begin stitching. However remember to later go back and re-thread the beginning end thread and pull it under the vertical or horizontal stitches on the back of your fabric.   More instructions about How to Cross Stitch can be found on page 2.