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A beginner's guide to cross stitch

A beginner's guide to cross stitch

Cross stitch is making a comeback among modern makers and crafters. Learning how to cross stitch is easy, and these instructions for beginners will get you stitching in no time!

What is cross stitch?

Cross stitch is a form of counted thread embroidery that has been around for ages, and it is one of the easiest forms of hand embroidery to learn. Cross stitch is comprised of X-shaped stitches done on fabric with an even and open weave like Aida or linen. Designs can be traditional or modern or anywhere in between.

Cross stitch projects are often sold as kits, but you can also purchase fabric, thread and basic supplies to come up with your own project.

Either way, follow these steps to learn the basics of cross stitch.

Step 1: Reading a cross stitch chart

A cross stitch chart tells you everything you need to know about where to stitch and what color to use. The grid on a cross stitch chart corresponds to the grid created by the weave of the fabric, and each colored square on the chart represents a cross stitch.

A combination of colors and symbols in the squares (or symbols only if the chart is black-and-white) tell you which color of floss to use. Use the chart legend to map the symbols to the floss colors.

how to read a cross stitch chart

When you begin a new cross stitch project, it is a good idea to start stitching in the middle of the design. That way you make sure your design is centered in the fabric. Small arrows at the edges of a cross stitch chart indicate the center points.

Take a look at your chart and find an area close to the center to start with. It can be easier to start with a large block of color instead of part of the pattern that changes color frequently.

Related: How to read a cross stitch pattern 

Step 2: Prepare your fabric

Cross stitch can be done on a number of different fabrics, but the most common are Aida and linen. Both are woven fabrics that have a tendency to fray when cut. Before you start stitching, it is a good idea to bind the edges particularly if you are stitching a large project that will require lots of handling.

To minimize fraying, sew the edges with a zig-zag stitch or use a serger if you have one. If you don’t want to sew the edges, you can also bind them with masking tape.

how to prepare fabric for cross stitch

Step 3: Find the center of your fabric

To find the center of your fabric, fold it in half one way and then fold it in half the other way. Pinch and crease the center point to mark it. You can place a pin in the center or make a small stitch to further mark the center point.

Step 4: Using a hoop or frame

There are lots of different styles of embroidery hoops and frames available. Whether you use one or not is up to you. Beginning stitchers may find it easier to put their fabric in an embroidery hoop.

To use a hoop, first loosen the screw and separate the two rounds. Place the round without the screw flat on a table or work surface. Lay the fabric over the hoop making sure the center of the fabric is in the center of the hoop. Place the other round over the fabric and press it down so the fabric is sandwiched between the two hoops. Gently pull the fabric taut as you tighten the screw on the hoop. Don’t pull the fabric too tight or it will distort the weave of the fabric.

Step 4: Prepare your thread

Pick the color of floss you are starting with and cut a length about 18 inches long. If you go much longer than this, the thread is more likely to get knotted when you stitch.

Most embroidery floss is made up of six strands of thread twisted together. Depending on the fabric you are using, you will typically stitch with only one or two strands at a time.

To separate out a strand, hold the floss with one hand and pinch the end of one strand with the other. Gently and slowly pull the strand up and out until it is separated from the remaining strands. Only pull one strand at a time. Pulling multiple strands may cause the floss to knot.

Step 5: Thread your needle

Cross stitch is typically done using a round-end tapestry needle. The size you use depends on your fabric. If you are stitching a kit, use the needle that came with it. If not, see this article on choosing a needle for cross stitch.

Thread your needle just as you would a needle for hand sewing. Don’t make a knot in the tail end. You will stitch over the tail as you work to secure it without needing a knot. As a general rule, you want to avoid using knots when cross stitching because they can leave lumps in the final piece.

Step 6: Making a row of cross stitches

Cross stitch is generally worked in rows going from left to right. Refer to your stitching chart to figure out where you want to begin stitching.

Starting from the back side of the fabric, bring your needle up through a hole toward the front, leaving about an inch of thread at the back. You will cover the tail with your stitches as you work to secure it.

Next pass your needle through a hole diagonally across from where you started to make a slanted half cross stitch (/). Be sure to hold on to the tail at the back of the fabric so it doesn’t slip through.

how to cross stitch steps

Start your second half cross stitch by bringing the needle back up through the hole that is directly below the one you last used. Before you pull this stitch tight, flip your fabric over to the back and make sure the thread tail will be trapped by the stitch.

how to start cross stitch

Continuing stitching along the row to make a series of half cross stitches (////).

how to cross stitch in a row

Next return across the row making a series of half cross stitches in the other direction (\\\\).

how to make cross stitches

Step 7: Making individual cross stitches

In some places on your design it may be easier to make a complete cross stitch before moving on to the next stitch instead of working in rows. Follow the diagram below to make individual cross stitches.

cross stitch diagram

Step 8: Ending your thread

Keep stitching until you reach the end of the thread or until you run out of stitches in your pattern. On the back side of the fabric, pass the needle under at least three completed stitches to secure the thread. Trim the remaining thread, being careful not to cut it too close.

cross stitch how to end thread

Tips & tricks

You will quickly get comfortable making basic cross stitches. Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind.

  • Aim for a nice easy tension on your stitches. Don’t pull them so tight that they warp the fabric or leave them so loose that they gap. The stitches should lie flat against the fabric without pulling against it.
  • Don’t make long jumps across the back of your fabric with the thread because they might show through on the front. When moving to a new area that is more than a few stitches away, you should end your thread and then begin it again in the new spot.
  • Buy all your supplies for a project at the start. Thread comes in dye lots that may vary slightly between batches.
  • As you stitch, the thread will tend to get twisted. Every once in a while, let your needle and thread hang freely to let it unwind.
  • Have fun! Cross stitch is a relaxing and rewarding craft. Don’t stress too much about the details and enjoy the process!

46 Responses

Jennifer Robinson

Jennifer Robinson

May 09, 2021

Does outline stitch always get done in black?

Taz

Taz

March 28, 2021

I have a chart that says 2 different colours for 1 symbol. Do I use both colours together and if so is the number of strands it says to use for both or for each colour.

Deborah D. Arrendale

Deborah D. Arrendale

February 16, 2021

I have a project that calls for a full stitch but says to use 2 different colors for that pattern. Do I use 3 strands of each?

Leslie

Leslie

February 10, 2021

I am doing my first cross stich, its Joy Sunday 32064 Colorful House By The water (no pattern on fabric) its 14CT 2, 52X44cm. There are 6 graph panels, 3 across top, 3 across the bottom. Per the graph there are 240 stitches across and 200 down. I’m not sure what I’m doing wrong, but the fabric is not big enough, am I counting wrong? If so I can not find anything to show me how to count correctly. If I follow the pattern, I assume each little square with a symbol or color code in it is considered 1 stitch? HELP! Thank you!

helper

helper

November 19, 2020

Nancy,
there are many free computer programs that will make a pattern from a photo :)

Xavia Sheffield

Xavia Sheffield

November 19, 2020

To answer Nancy Higgins. I have created several cross stitch patterns of both houses and churches from just a photo of them.

Xavia Sheffield

Xavia Sheffield

November 19, 2020

I read Nancy Higgins question about creating a house pattern from a photo. I have created several houses and churches from a photo on my cross stitch program on my computer. They take several hours. I would have to see the photo to determine the cost.

Alice Stitchman

Alice Stitchman

October 28, 2020

I never had instructions on how to cross stitch and I realize I have been doing the stitch backwards. I have a huge project I started a long time ago and was wondering if it would look funny if I finished it crossing in the correct direction. It is very fine material and doing it backwards makes the stitching very tight and uses a lot more thread. Thank you.

Nancy Higgins

Nancy Higgins

October 27, 2020

Do you know of anyone that will create a cross stitch pattern from a photo of a house?

Nancy Higgins

Nancy Higgins

October 27, 2020

Help! I completed and washed my cross stitch project. There are 3 rows in a solid patch of the same color where the holes are showing on the tops of the stitches. Shall I tear them out and restitch – OR – will the same thing happen again? My second problem is that somehow a very fine black fiber got caught in the white stiches in a couple of spots making it look dirty. Same thing – should I remove and restitch ?

Shelley

Shelley

August 08, 2020

This article was one of the first on my Google search engine when I typed in cross stitch. I am very relieved that I had to look no further for concise, clear information.

Also, thank you for putting in the links to the related articles. I’m off to the one about Needle selection now but before I go I want to make sure I say the main point of what I commented for in the first place..

Reading your other comments of late, it’s repulsive to see others posting advertisements to their websites on here. I’m boycotting them now and I hope others who read this do as well.

Lana Foladare

Lana Foladare

July 23, 2020

How do you keep the paper pattern in good shape on a long project? I am barely one fifth done and my pattern is tearing at edges. Thank you!

James Finck

James Finck

July 03, 2020

Hi there! thanks for the tutorial, what starter cross stitch kits would you recommend for beginners? i was browsing some online store i came across this website https://passioncrafts.co/ browsing their catalogue for beginner cross stitch, do you recommended some of their beginners cross stitches? https://passioncrafts.co/collections/cross-stitch-kits-beginner thanks!

Tamara Lee

Tamara Lee

July 03, 2020

nice tutorial! thanks for this <3 :)

Joel Passion

Joel Passion

July 03, 2020

Very nice tutorial for beginners like me that just got started in cross-stitching, i have a question, i’m browsing this website https://passioncrafts.co/ and i find their catalogue awesome, they have beginners cross stitch also.

Tamara

Tamara

June 05, 2020

@Karen – the blue lines may be meant to be washed out after completing the pattern – some cross stitch fabric is printed with inks that wash out easily when you wash the finished piece.

karen bell

karen bell

May 19, 2020

i have just got a cross stich pattern for the first time and it is on a graft but the background has graft patenen with blue lines the instructions dont say fill in the blank spaces . what shall i do
many thanks
karen

River

River

May 05, 2020

This was super helpful! I’m a beginner and am starting my 2nd project! This was super easy to understand!! Especially compared to the instructions on my beginners pattern which were confusing!! Thank you!!

Grace

Grace

April 25, 2020

As a person who has wanted to start for a while THANK YOU for this explanation! I feel like I’m ready to start experimenting now :)

Miranda

Miranda

April 04, 2020

THIS WAS A PERFECT BEGINNERS EXPLANATION! Thank you so much! (:

Wendy

Wendy

April 01, 2020

When I start cross stitch: I start with one color thread- do I complete all areas in that color then move on to the next color thread and complete all areas in that color. Or do I go back and forth with all color threads?

Rebbecah

Rebbecah

March 07, 2020

Hi, I am not a pro or a beginner on this but I do know how to do cross stich, your guide is clear and I just wanted to say. Congratulations. A beginner guide is hard to make because you have to think kind of like a beginner.

Jo

Jo

February 19, 2020

Some patterns are more difficult to read than others. How can you tell what color to use for half stitches?

Annie B.

Annie B.

February 07, 2020

I am slightly baffled by the numbering when making a complete cross stitch itself. Up to the front on 1, down on 2. Straight below 2coming up for 3, then over for 4. I pretty much get that part but why wouldnt u continue going to the left? I got lost when u went to the right for 5. If i start my pattern moving one direction i should prolly keep going that way right?

Denise Paterno

Denise Paterno

January 27, 2020

I am new to cross stitch and found your instructions clear. When I opened my kit I found the pattern to be on the instructions. I thought it would be imprinted on the fabric. I guess if I follow the diagram and start in the center. I’ll be okay. Anxious to try

Cheryl

Cheryl

January 25, 2020

I have cross stitched for 40 years. Your instructions are very clear and understandable. Because I make a lot of projects using afghan fabric, I stitch from right to left (which uses a lot more floss) but the back looks better to me. Do you know what that kind of stitching is called? I just learned about railroading yesterday. I guess you can always learn new techniques!

Horatio.Sally

Horatio.Sally

January 09, 2020

No one is so rich that they can not help others, and no one is too poor to help others in some way

Chrissy

Chrissy

January 04, 2020

I did a lot of research, and your directions where the best, so easy to understand, I am a knitter, sewing and regular needlepoint, but have never done cross stitch. Thanks my great granddaughter’s blanket will be beautiful. Chrissy

ericeberryy

ericeberryy

November 05, 2019

Thank you! im new to cross stitching and this was so helpful!

Margaret

Margaret

September 02, 2019

First time cross stitching in over 40 years…I have nobody left to ask and the M-I-L is up in Canada for a few days.
Entire row or parts of rows? I bought the Buttons & Beads MH14-1821 Enchanted Pumpkin as a RE-starter project and I can’t remember…ENTIRE row, or parts of rows before turning back to complete the cross-stitch? Treat me like a fourth grader, regardless of age.

Christy

Christy

August 23, 2019

I have seen some people leave long lengths of the floss on their work in progress . Why is that?

Susan Fitgerald

Susan Fitgerald

June 18, 2019

To the commenter below — To find the right hole, you will need to follow your cross stitch chart. I have some tips in this post that might help:
https://stitchedmodern.com/blogs/news/how-to-read-a-cross-stitch-pattern

I want to know in cross stitching  how u find the hole to come up through I have a hard time please help

I want to know in cross stitching how u find the hole to come up through I have a hard time please help

June 07, 2019

I have all ready gave my problem

Susan Fitgerald

Susan Fitgerald

May 28, 2019

@Mariah – So glad you’re giving cross stitch a try! Some of it comes down to practice, but the type of needle you use, as well as the number of threads, makes a difference. Tapestry needles are generally used in cross stitch because they have a blunt end that slides past fibers in the fabric and your stitches instead of piercing through them. Also make sure that you are stitching with an appropriate number of threads for the fabric you’re using. For example, stitching with 2 strands of embroidery floss on 14-count fabric will ensure there is enough room in each hole of the fabric to accommodate multiple passes. Finally, you want to make sure your tension is even. Don’t make your stitches super tight, but taut enough that they don’t pop up when you make adjacent stitches. Hope this helps!

Mariah

Mariah

May 21, 2019

Hello,

I’m fairly new to this craft, obviously since I’m reading a beginners guide, and I’m wondering how to help the issue of coming back through a hole that is already used. How do I stop the thread pulling/pushing/or just going through the middle of the thread? Is it just a finesse thing that will come with time?

Thank you for any help!

Susan

Susan

April 11, 2019

Hi Jennifer, there are a number of different ways to grid your fabric. Some stitchers use transfer pens (like theses: https://stitchedmodern.com/products/fine-tip-iron-on-transfer-pens) to draw lines on the fabric. I like gridding using a contrasting piece of floss. Do a running stitch over and under 10 threads (or 20 if you’re stitching over 2), both horizontal and vertical to create your grid. You can also use Easy Count Gridline (https://stitchedmodern.com/products/easy-count-gridline), which is super easy to pull out when you’re done stitching.

Susan

Susan

April 11, 2019

Hi Susan – You should do the back stitching (i.e., outlining) at the very end after you have done the rest of the stitching. That way the back stitches won’t get buried under the other stitches.

Jennifer

Jennifer

April 07, 2019

I have a question a little advanced… Ive been crossstitching for years but recently decided to start larger pieces. Is there an easy way to grid out my fabric?

Susan Antwine

Susan Antwine

March 31, 2019

When a pattern calls for outlining do you outline first before starting or wait until after you have completing your pattern?

Eric

Eric

March 17, 2019

I was just wondering how many cross stiches I should do at a time. From one end to the other the count is 142 stiches. Should o do ten at a time Ike is in the pattern boxes. Less or more

Nance in Reno

Nance in Reno

August 16, 2018

Very clear directions. When I stitch with an even number of threads, I double the length of the floss and use half the number of thread. I put both ends of the floss through the eye of the needle, leaving a loop on the other end. Start the first stitch and pull the thread through the loop for the first half of the stitch. Now I have half as many ends to weave in.

As far as converting 28 to 16 count, your project will be almost twice as big. 28÷16=1.75. Hope that helps.

Sharon Carpenter

Sharon Carpenter

August 04, 2018

If the pattern calls for 28 ct and I want to use 16 ct how do I know that is acceptable and what size the finished project will be?

Lisa

Lisa

May 30, 2018

I have a question. My pattern calls for Marlitt, which I understand is obsolete. I’ve read that I can substitute with dmc satin but how do I find the correct color? For example, if I need marlitt 1009, what would the corresponding number in dmc satin floss? Any help would be great. Thank you!
Lisa

Susan (Stitched Modern)

Susan (Stitched Modern)

March 20, 2018

@Lesley – Thanks for your question! There are a couple of ways to deal with this. One as you suggested is to stitch the row below, but that isn’t always an option. Here is what I generally do (refer to the final graphic in Step 6 above).

When making your return row of half-stitches and you reach the final stitch in the row, instead of going 6-7-8, I stitch 6-8-7. Then to start the row above, bring your needle up through the hole just above 6 and angle diagonally down to the left to make the first half stitch.

It’s a bit hard to describe without pictures, but does that help? Feel free to shoot me an email at hello (at) stitchedmodern (dot) com if not.

Lesley

Lesley

March 17, 2018

A newbie to cross stitch – followed the instruction above but when i come to do the second line of stitches above the first i have to come up on 9 and so undo the previous stitch. Should i continue by stitching the row below ? Thank you x

Beth Gibson

Beth Gibson

May 21, 2017

Very clear and complete introduction. tuvm.

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