Getting started!

When you get your project home, wash your hands before you open the package. Open your supplies and lay it out. Look at the instructions on your project to see if there are any special things of note. Get your floss and your sorter. Most instructions tell how many strands of each color are included in the kit. This is extremely helpful if you get started on a larger project with many colors. Sort your colors and put them into the floss sorter. I usually write the name of the color for ease of finding the color when you start to stitch. Some instructions will tell you to cut the strands in half. This is only necessary if they are extremely long.

You will begin by finding the center of the pattern and on the fabric. See which color goes in the 4 squares around the middle of the pattern. This will give you a starting point to count from. Add your stitches.

I still don't have a small project to share with you, but will have one soon.

Selecting your first project.

I am going to go out and buy a new small project because all I have here right now are large projects. Please check back and see what I have chosen. Then I will post pictures and tips to get us going.

Getting started on your cross stitch project

The first thing you want to do when you decide to learn cross stitching is to go to your local fabric or craft store and look at what they have to offer. The projects usually are offered in two main types. The first type comes in a pre-packaged project that includes fabric, threads, a needle, and instructions to complete the entire project. The other type has a pattern and a list of the threads you will need and how much is required to complete the project. Sometimes the fabric is included in this type, but not always. You can choose from counted cross stitch and stamped cross stitch. I prefer the counted cross stitch because it is on a fabric that already has holes for your needle to pass through and the stitches look more even than on a stamped cross stitch pattern.

It is usually better to start on a small project to get your feet wet. They have baby bibs, small single pictures, and other small items to start with. There are normally around 5 colors to use. This is good because you won't become confused by multiple colors in varying shades.

It is a good idea to set up a well lit area to do your stitching. Make sure you are comfortable. Always wash your hands before working on your project. This may not seem like a big deal, but there is oil on your hands and this collects even small amounts of dirt that will transfer to your project. This will save you from having to wash your cross stitch when you finish your project.

You may want to purchase a frame to keep your project stretched tightly and for ease of handling your project. There are rings that you can put lightweight fabrics in but I prefer the wooden frames that let you roll up the completed parts of your project.

There are thread sorters available where you purchase your projects. Read on the package of the project you have chosen to see if one is included. If not you may want to purchase a package of these sorters. If not you can use cardboard to make your own sorter.

I always keep the needles provided with each project in case of breakage. This doesn't happen often but if it does, you will want to have a spare needle.