Learn to Cross Stitch: Start Stitching

Explore stitching basics, where every thread weaves a tale of creativity! This chapter of our ongoing How to Cross Stitch Series will cover stitching basics. From the iconic cross stitch itself to a range of stitch types, this guide is your key to unlocking the world of cross stitching. Feel free to navigate our menu below for easy access to each section.

Basic Stitching for Beginners

At the heart of cross stitching lies the stitches themselves. To do a basic cross stitch, start by piercing your fabric from behind at the lower left of a square, guiding your needle diagonally, then sliding through the upper right. Next, your needle should travel from the lower right to the upper left, completing the iconic ‘X.’

There are two common stitching methods that we get asked about often, Danish and English. The Danish stitching method is to do a row of half stitches then come back and stitch the opposite way to close the ‘X’s. The English method is to do one cross stitch or “X” at a time. Which one you use is entirely up to your preference!

It’s important for the consistency of your project that all stitches match each other in direction. When starting, practicing on aida fabric can be incredibly helpful. Thanks to its clear grid, you can easily keep even spacing and alignment.

This basic technique, though simple, opens the door to a world of creative possibilities, laying the groundwork for more advanced stitches and methods. As you grow more used to the rhythm of stitching, your speed and accuracy will improve!

Remember, mastery comes with practice, so take your time to familiarize yourself with this essential stitch, setting a solid foundation for your cross-stitch journey.

Railroading and Confetti Stitches

Railroading and confetti stitches are more advanced techniques. Railroading involves splitting the threads of your stitch as you pull through, ensuring they lay flat and parallel. This is particularly useful for achieving a smooth, polished look, as it encourages even spacing and minimizes gaps between stitches. To railroad, insert your needle between the two strands of floss on your needle, gently separating them before completing your stitch.

On the other hand, confetti stitches are like sprinkles around your piece. To easily manage confetti stitches, consider using a loop start or a pin stitch to secure them. This approach helps minimize the potential mess on the backside of your project and ensures each colorful stitch stands out as intended.

Both railroading and confetti stitches demand precision and patience but are incredibly rewarding once mastered. They not only contribute to your designs but also challenge you to refine your technique and approach to stitching. As you incorporate them into your stitching arsenal, you’ll discover new ways to enhance your creations!

How to Change Color in Your Projects

Transitioning between colors in your cross stitch project can be smooth and straightforward with the right techniques. First, when you finish with one color, weave the tail end of your thread beneath several existing stitches on the reverse side of your fabric. This secures your thread in place and reduces the likelihood of creating knots or tangles.

Starting a new color presents an opportunity to implement a neat start, such as the tail start method. Leave a short tail of the new thread on the back of your work, and as you make your first few stitches, ensure they overlap this tail. Basically, you’re treating it like starting the cross stitch from the beginning with this new thread color.

How to Outline with Stitches

Outlining with stitches is typically done by backstitching. Starting the backstitch involves emerging the needle a stitch length ahead of your intended beginning, then inserting it back at the start point, and continuing this process to form a smooth, unbroken line.

This method allows you to outline shapes and better map your stitching route or stitch without always having your pattern out.

Next Up for Beginner Stitchers

We hope you continue to join us for our Learn to Cross Stitch Series by subscribing to this blog. On the desktop, you’ll find the Subscribe sign up near the top of the right-hand menu area, and on the phone, it’s near the bottom of the page.

We’ll be sharing everything you need to know about cross stitching throughout this series the first Tuesday and third Thursday of every month, until we reach the end! Check back June 4 because next up we’re covering our favorite stitching tips, tricks, and answer frequently asked question!

Drop a comment below and let us know… any questions you still have about stitching! Also, feel free to share your best tips and tricks that you’ve learned in your stitching so far, so we can share them along with ours next month.

Happy stitching!