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Have you always wanted to learn a
new craft?
Cross stitch is the perfect
solution! The projects can be done
anywhere; on a bus, binge-watching
TV or laying by the pool. It really
is the easiest to go needlework! You
can do small projects or large,
whimsical or more traditional. The
patterns and tools out there are
endless.
Learning to cross stitch doesn't have to be intimidating. If you know how to accomplish five basic stitches then you will be on your way to a bright and stitchy future. Once you have these stitches down you can build up and try more intermediate stitches. While these beginning stitches may seem like no-brainers, if you master them, you will have a beautiful end product.
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01 of 05
Cross Stitch
A cross stitch is an x-shaped embroidery stitch from which the name of Cross Stitch Embroidery is derived. It is easily accomplished by stitching two half stitches over each other. This stitch is the basis for all cross stitch. You will see it the most, and it is the most commonly used. This is the stitch with cross-stitch. You will base all other stitches on this first one. You will add and subtract to create other stitches and patterns.
You can use this stitch on any kind of fabric, but the most common is Aida cloth, which ranges in a variety of sizes. If you are just beginning, a larger weave of this fabric is the best. You can also use plastic canvas for practice. Don't limit yourself to just fabric with this stitch, branch out to nonconventional ideas such as wicker chairs, netting for screen doors or tennis rackets.
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02 of 05
Half Stitch
The cross stitch is made up of two half stitches. Half stitches are also stitched individually in some cross stitch projects and they can be used at times to create a sense of depth in a pattern. A half stitch is used a lot in outlining designs and making specific shapes. It's also used a lot to make corners and circles.
A half stitch, just one over can be used as a backstitch. A backstitch will go up and down instead of diagonal. Half stitches are used for more detail, such as eyes, rounded corners on flowers and creating spirals. A half stitch can create a nice flow to rounded patterns. They are used to create circles where just a normal stitch would create a box.
03 of 05