If you are new to cross stitch, follow these tips to get you off to a good start.
 | Don't attempt to tackle a large project to begin
with! Start
off with perhaps a small card design preferably one designed using whole
stitches with backstitch.
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| Organise your threads, fabric, needles, scissors and
hoop BEFORE you start your chosen project
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| When gauging how much fabric to use, first use a
stitch guide, then add a generous amount to this measurement to allow for
framing/mounting your finished project.
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| When starting out with cross stitch you will find it
easier to use AIDA fabric. I would recommend 14 count hpi.
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| Cut your lengths of thread to about 12 inches
working length - this will reduce
tangles and knotting when you stitch
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| Count, count, COUNT!!!! Mistakes are easier to fix
if spotted early!
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| To find the centre of your fabric, fold the fabric
into ¼'s, where the fold lines cross will be the centre.
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| Keep your TOP stitches facing in the same direction
- this can be either \ or / but not BOTH. This
ensures a neat finish to your work.
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| Start stitching the largest area of colour first
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| Backstitches are always worked LAST
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| Never leave the needle in your work when putting it
away - this may mark or distort the fabric
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| If your thread gets twisted during stitching, simply
let the needle hang down loosely so that the twist unravels itself
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| Avoid Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) with good
posture when stitching.
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