How to make one cross stitch
A cross stitch is two diagonal stitches across one square of fabric. Aida fabric has a hole at every corner of every square, so the needle always comes up and goes down through those holes.
- Come up at the bottom left corner of the square.
- Go down at the top right corner. That is the first leg.
- Come up at the bottom right corner.
- Go down at the top left corner. This top leg crosses over the first one.
Stitching a row, there and back
For a row of the same colour, make all the first legs from left to right, then come back from right to left and cross each one. It uses less thread than finishing every cross on its own, and it keeps every top leg pointing the same way, which is what makes stitching look even.
Reading a cross stitch chart
Each square on the chart is one stitch on your fabric, and each symbol stands for one thread. The legend next to the chart pairs every symbol with a thread number, such as DMC 321. Small arrows on the edges mark the middle of the chart, which is where you start. Count the squares in a row before you stitch it; it saves unpicking later.
Questions beginners ask
What do I need to start cross stitching?
A piece of 14-count Aida fabric, a size 24 tapestry needle, stranded cotton thread (DMC or similar), a 10 cm hoop and small scissors. Everything for the five beginner lessons costs about €11.
How many strands do I use on 14-count Aida?
Two. Stranded cotton comes as six thin strands twisted together; separate two and thread those for full cross stitches on 14-count Aida.
Which way should the top leg of a cross stitch go?
Either way works, as long as every top leg in the piece goes the same way. Mixed directions catch the light differently and make the stitching look patchy.
Where do I start on a cross stitch chart?
In the middle. Small arrows on the edges of the chart mark the centre lines. Fold your fabric in half twice to find its middle, and start there so the design sits centred.
How do I start a thread without a knot?
Leave a tail of 2 to 3 cm at the back of the fabric and hold it there while you make your first few stitches, so they cover and secure it. Knots make lumps under the fabric and can pull through.
Is the lesson free?
Yes. The whole lesson works in your browser without an account, and your progress is kept in this browser so you can stop and come back.
Next: design your own
Turn a photo into a pattern or draw one stitch by stitch in the free KnytStudio editor, then track it the same way.
Open the editor