A hoop or frame will help keep your fabric taunt for stitching. If using a hoop, always remove your fabric when you are not stitching to prevent marks or stretching.
You will also need a pair of scissors and a good light source.
Making your first X
Once you have all the supplies, you are ready to start. It is a good idea to read any instructions that come with your chart or kit. I usually begin stitching at the center of the design, although others prefer to begin in the upper left or right of the design. Do what is best for you!
Each square on the design represents one stitch on the fabric. The symbols within the squares represent different floss colors. It's usually easier to work all of one color within an area at one time.
The center of the design is usually marked by arrows - one across the top row and one along the side. Follow the arrows until they meet and that square is the center.
Find the center of the fabric by measuring or by folding it in half two times, lengthwise and crosswise. If you are not starting in the center, count up and over the correct number of stitches to find the beginning square.
Separate your thread one strand at a time. Then combine the correct number of strands for your project. This will help your thread from getting twisted or tangled. Occasionally while stitching, let your needle hang down so the thread will unwind. This also helps your stitches stay neat.
Thread your needle, but don't knot the thread. Leave a short tail hanging on the back of the fabric, and secure it by working your first few stitches over it. Another technique to get started is the loop method. You must be using an even number of strands for this method. An important rule of thumb is to always cross your stitches in the same direction throughout the entire design.
I usually use a two step method to cross stitch. First, work the bottom leg of the X across the row, so it will look something like this: ///// (or \\\\\).
The direction you use for the bottom leg doesn't really matter as long as you are consistent for the entire project.
When you reach the end of the row, turn and come back, crossing the first stitches as you go and creating your X's.
Backstitching is used to outline or define the design. The backstitches are usually done last after all cross stitches are finished.
