Stitch Life Magazine Issue 1

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GETTING STARTED WITH CROSS STITCH
The squares on a cross stitch chart correspond to
the grid created by the holes in the fabric. Each
coloured square represents a single cross stitch.
Sometimes symbols are also included. Use the chart
key to match the thread colours to the design.
Prepare your fabric by ironing it gently. Fold it in four
to locate the centre. It is helpful to mark the centre
with a pin, or small stitch. Then find the centre
square of your chart. This is where you should begin
stitching. One square of the chart represents one
stitch of the design.
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Use a frame or embroidery hoop to keep an even
tension while sewing.
Cut the thread to no more than 50cm in length.
Anchor stranded cotton embroidery thread is made
up of six individual strands. Separate the number of
strands needed as indicated on your chart.
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Work stitches of the same colour close together
and do not move to areas that are more than 2.5cm
away. Work sideways – from left to right or right to
left – and always stitch and complete the cross in
the same direction. Complete the cross stitches, and
then add backstitch if shown on the chart.
How to sew cross stitch
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1. Cross stitch is worked in rows going from left to
right. Beginning at the back of the fabric, bring your
needle up through a hole towards [10] the front. Then
pass your needle through a hole diagonally opposite
from where you started. This makes a half cross
stitch (/). Make a second half cross stitch by bringing
the needle back up through the hole that is directly
below the one you last used. Continue stitching
along the row.
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150 Stitch Life
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