Can't wait to get started stitching a cross stitch project? Well, before you find yourself in over your head, take some time to learn the basics. If you are a cross stitch beginner, don't start out by taking on a project that's too complicated for you. Pick a pattern that's suitable for your skill level. Start out with something easy, and then work your way up to the more complicated patterns.



The best thing a cross stitch beginner can do is learn the basics before they attempt to stitch anything and the following two sites teach everything that you will need to know to stitch your first masterpiece:

www(dot)yarntree(dot)com/007begin(dot)htm What a fun site this is. There's a cross stitch chart on this site that's free and comes with the directions you need to stitch the pattern. Moreover, the site lists what items you need to buy if you're new to cross stitch. As you explore, you'll discover information on lots of cross stitch topics. You can learn about such topics as fabric choices and how you make your first stitches. Even more advanced stitchers can find something of interest here.

www(dot)caron-net(dot)com/patguide(dot)html This second site has loads of hints and tips to help make counted cross stitch easier for all levels, not just beginners. After reading it I must admit that I learnt a few new things and so this is the perfect site for our newbie brothers and sisters. There's information on fabrics, flosses, basic stitches and more advanced ones and the bonus is that new hints and tips are added every month making this site one to add to your favorites list.

After you visit these sites, you'll have a better idea how to create your first cross stitch project. Your next step will be to locate a pattern you like. Your choices can seem endless when you first take a look around the internet. Actually, many of the patterns you'll find aren't suited to a beginner. You need to pick a pattern that is easy for someone who's just starting to cross stitch.

A great place to find cross stitch patterns is www(dot)cross-stitch-academy(dot)com/beginners/beginners(dot)html. This site has eight cute patterns that are made for beginners. For each pattern, you're given a chart that shows you how to stitch the design, a nice illustration that shows you what your completed project will look like, and instructions on the floss you'll need to stitch the pattern. To make things even easier, the instructions lead you through the steps, explaining carefully what color floss you use for each stitch.

What's wonderful about this site is it's so easy and helpful that even children will find it fun. These great patterns are free for you to download and enjoy. Take a moment to look at each of them. You'll find a nice variety, with everything from flowers to a pretty border, plus some great holiday patterns. You'll also find a great little project to give Mom. Even if your skills are more advanced, you'll find fun patterns on this site.

When you get bored by this site, or just too good at stitching, then you can also try www(dot)dltk-kids(dot)com/type/crossstitch (dot)htm where there are loads of free beginner patterns to choose from. Technically this site is a children's site but I regularly visit and download a couple of easy patterns for my cross stitch beginner daughter and the odd one for me.

There are a number of animals to choose from including a dog, a cat, a chicken, a frog, a turtle and a little ladybug. There are also patterns for each of the seasons, a Christmas pattern, a mother's day pattern and a St Patrick's Day pattern. All of the patterns are printable as are the instructions and the floss charts.

Each cross stitch beginner should be encouraged and congratulated for taking the first step in the long journey to becoming a master stitcher. Be warned though -- once you start, you just can't seem to stop!