Cross Stitch Beginner Guide to Basic Stitches
Any cross stitch beginner can quickly master the basic stitches in counted cross stitch. The simple x stitch forms the base of the entire design. Other stitches form accents.
Basic X Stitch
Make two diagonal lines to form an X. Be consistent about which diagonal is on the bottom and which is on top. If you do one backwards, your finished work won’t have a smooth finish.
You can do a whole row of bottom diagonals then come back and cross the tops.
Other Stitches
- Half Cross Stitch
Just do the bottom diagonal. This effect is sometimes used for shading because it allows more of the fabric to show.
- 3/4 Cross Stitch
Make the bottom diagonal. Make half of the top diagonal, ending where it crosses the bottom diagonal. This three quarter stitch is sometimes used to round corners.
- Backstitch or Outline Stitch
Make a straight stitch. Move a square ahead then stitch back to continue making a straight line. This stitch is used for outlining. Notice that the opposite side is showing than what you might call the right side
in crewelwork.
- French Knot
This is a
crewelwork stitch
sometimes used to add detail in cross stitch.
Aida fabric is easiest for a cross stitch beginner
because it's slightly stiff and has the squares clearly visible. On other evenweave fabrics and linens, cross stitches are usually worked over two threads.
For some more excellent cross stitch information and tips for beginners and enthusiasts, including free cross stitch
designs, please visit
Laura Anne's La Cross Stitch website.
She has lots of useful articles!
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