Ready, set, cross stitch!

Ever wanted to try your hand at cross-stitch? Keen to treat introduce your loved one to a new hobby? Then check out this handy guide, to find out what you'll need to get started with this wonderful hobby!

What you'll need

There are a few basics you'll need before you can start any stitching: a needle, thread, canvas and scissors. You can also get some optional extras, like a thimble for protecting your finger, a threader to help you thread the needle, and a sewing hoop to hold your work taut.

•  Needles: It's a good idea to buy a pack of needles so you can find the size that suits you and your project.

•  Thread: You can buy the thread you need for each project, or get hold of a selection so you have stash for future work.

•  Canvas: Cross stitch canvas (also known as aida) comes in different 'counts': that's the number of stitches per inch. The more threads per inch, the finer and more detailed the project, so beginners are better off choosing a low-count canvas.

•  Scissors: Dressmaker scissors are essential for cutting the lengths of thread you need, and trimming off loose ends.

What to stitch

Beginners, the easiest way to get started with cross stitch is to buy a kit. Kits will include the canvas and thread you need, a picture guide pattern to show you exactly what to stitch, and a needle!

More experienced stitchers can expand their horizons by looking for patterns. You can find cool patterns in cross stitch books and, of course, on the internet; once you find one you like, you'll have to get the canvas and thread separately.

If you're feeling really adventurous, you could try designing your own! You could adapt an existing design, or find a free cross stitch converting program online, to turn images into pixelated pictures that you can stitch from.

Techniques

The basic cross-shaped stitch is used for the bulk of your work; this is what your image will be made from. Aida canvas contains small holes to keep your stitches consistent, so follow these holes to make your crosses.

Start by stitching little diagonal lines in one direction, then stitch back over them in the other direction to make crosses and you've mastered the basic stitch!

The other basic stitch you'll need is the backstitch. You can use the backstitch as an outline for your image and to add extra details, such as whiskers or flower stems. Again, follow the holes in the aida canvas and stitch a series of small lines to outline anything you like.

Bonus tips

There are a few things you can do to make your cross stitch even better, so your projects will be the envy of all your friends!

•  Make sure not to pull your stitches too tight as you work, just pull the thread as far as you need to, otherwise your project will get crumpled.

•  Wash your work after you have finished to make it really shine. Before you wash anything, though, you should check that your thread is colourfast, and only use very gentle soap.

•  Treat your finished piece to a beautiful frame and hang it on the wall for all to see!

Feeling inspired? DotComGiftShop has loads more goodies for you in our crafting department, or you can check out our guide about learning to paint!