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CROSS STITCH TECHNIQUES

Scroll down for descriptions of cross stitch techniques--embellished cross stitch, stamped cross stitch, no-count cross stitch, counted cross stitch.

To view any group of items click on the links below or the desired category link at left.  To view details or a larger image click on the item title.  To locate items within a certain theme type in a keyword in the search box.

CROSS STITCH LINKS:                              

The following links are to sections/categories with kits in varied techniques.  These kits should show up in their respective technique sections but if you're searching for a particular type such as baby or holiday this might be easier.  The kit detail should state the technique. 

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Counted Cross Stitch

Counted Cross Stitch is done on blank fabric, two opposing diagonal stitches taken to form an X.  Step One of a single stitch: /.   Step 2 of the same stitch: \.  End result: X. 

Fabric can be Aida or Fiddlers Cloth, which is woven in squares for easy counting and placement of stitches.  This comes in various "stitch counts" per inch such as 14-count (14 squares per inch) beginning at 6-count and going to 18-count.  Evenweave fabrics are woven fabric with no clear squares, like linen, and stitches are usually taken over two threads.  The higher the stitches per inch count, the finer the detail.  A design done on 18-count aida or 32-count linen will have more detail and intricacy than one stitched on 11-count aida or 28-count evenweave.

Embellished Cross Stitch

Embellished Cross Stitch is exactly that--strategically placed stitches, which "embellish" the full color design.  The design is printed in full color on the fabric (usually aida) and could be framed as is.  But the stitches give it texture, dimension, a finer detail, and when blending filament or metallic threads are used, some sparkle and magic.   The advantage to this technique is that you can stitch as little or as much as you wish to make the finished work uniquely your design.  A chart (to suggest stitch placement for good effect) and generous amount of floss is included in embellished cross stitch kits. In some kits--particularly some by Lanarte--only the background is preprinted for artistic shading.  Otherwise the design is counted cross stitch. This works well for intricately colored, shaded, and detailed designs (such as Thomas Kinkade and Christian Reise Lassen) and encompass everything from the very easy to very challenging.  How can you tell one from the other?  Look at the colors and detail.  Are a lot of the colors shades of one--like green or blue?  If so it is going to require patience.  The results are always worth it.  I've done quite a few of the intricate Kinkade's and found them to take less time than the Kinkades available in counted.  Most people will tackle anything if they like it enough.  You decide. 

Embellished Cross Stitch links:

UNDER CONSTRUCTION--INCLUDES THOMAS KINKADE KITS

Stamped Cross Stitch

Stam,ped Cross Stitch is a level simpler and faster to work than counted cross.  In stamped cross stitch the X'S are stamped on fabric such as sailcloth, muslin, or homespun and a chart--just as in counted cross--shows proper placement of colors and stitches.  This is particularly easy on the eyes, and I have done some pieces that are just beautiful.  Of note are Four Seasons Cats by Janlynn, and Cobblestone Retreat by Dimensions among manhy other really nice designs.  I confess I enjoy stamped cross especially when I'm tired or just want a change.  These generally do go faster as you "stitch between the lines," so to speak.   This technique is commonly used for baby quilts, bibs, lap quilts, wallhangings, table linens, pillowcases, dresser scarves, and doilies.

No-count Cross Stitch

No-count is another "stitch between the lines" technique that is one level easier and faster than stamped.  The design is preprinted in full color on aida with selected areas left blank (no printing or color) for stitching.  Each section is done in a specified color.  It's almost like paint by number only you just do parts of it.  There is literally "no counting involved, so aside from consulting the chart to see which color goes where, you can concentrate on something else whilke stiotching what will become a lovely piece.  I always have fun with no-count by adding a few of my own touches like some blending filament to give the illusion of light or metallic threads & beads for bling.

Big Stitch Cross Stitch

Worked the same as counted Cross stitch but on small count aida, anywhere from 6-count to 11-count.  Some Christmas tree skirts are designed for 11-count as well.  At present Janlynn is the only company I know of that offers Big Stitch, but I am hoping to see more as the results can be surprisingly elegant.  These work well for the impatient, the bifocal generation (like me :-)), and the beginner. 

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