When you understand the basics of cross stitch then it is time to start on your first project. Start by reading all of the instructions which came with your first project kit. Read and understand how many threads to use and about any special markings on the pattern.
When cross stitching you will take a traditional six strand embroidery thread and separate it into individual threads. You will then cross stitch using one to three of the threads at a time. Generally the larger the weave of your Aida cloth, the more strands of thread you will work with at a time. The best thing you can do for your end product is to separate each strand and then use the recommended number of threads together. Do not rewind them together, keep them separated. This helps for your thread to better cover the canvas and look flat and even.
Add beads to your cross stitch embroidery
You can purchase beads at your local drugstore, craft stores, fabric stores and even bead specialty shops. Bead shops can be found both online and through mail-order catalogues. Beads today come in an amazing variety of shapes, colors and sizes. Beads can be found made of many different materials and in just about any shape imaginable.
If you are looking to add some extra visual interest to your embroidery, you might want to add a more bold or opposite color to your work. An example would be adding red beads onto a Christmas tree you have embroidered.
Beading needles work the best for two reasons. The first is that they will not break your beads when you thread them on. The second is that they are usually longer than embroidery needles and will allow you to string on beads all at one time if you want to.
The most important thing for you to remember when you first start sewing is that "Rome was not built in a day." Start with a very simple project and take your time. Then start a more complex project and take some time to learn a new skill or two when completing it. As you progress through your various projects you will feel more and more confident in your sewing abilities. After all, you are learning to sew because it is functional and fun!
Beads can add a wonderful touch to your cross-stitch project. They bring dimension and beauty to any needlework. However, there are some things you need to know about beads so you can make sure they are appropriate for your project. There are also some tips you can use to ensure that cross stitching with beads is fun rather than frustrating.
1. Keep the Color Consistent When working with beads you may wonder which floss to use, and you actually have a number of options depending on your design. You can match the floss to the color of the bead. You can also match the floss to the color of the fabric. Your third option is to purchase a special thread that is clear and designed specifically for attaching beads.
2. Use the Right Needle Most of the beads you will use in your cross-stitch project are seed beads. These beads are very tiny and require a thinner needle. If your needle is too thick you will probably break a number of the glass beads. If you are using longer, bugle beads you can use a size10 beading needle.
These are long needles that allow you to string a number of beads on the needle at once. However, if poking yourself is an issue, use a size 10 tapestry needle. The ball-point will not stab you, but the needle is best for stitching on one bead at a time.
3. Use the Stitch That Works Best When you stitch your bead on your fabric, you actually have a number of ways to stitch the bead depending on how you want it to lay on the fabric. For instance, if you want your bead to lie diagonally, you should use a half stitch. You would come up from the back of the fabric in the bottom, left corner, slip on the bead, and then bring the needle down through the top right corner.
However, you may also want your bead to lie vertically, so you would use a full cross-stitch. For a full stitch you will start like you would for beading on diagonal, but once you complete the half stitch, you bring the needle back up through the bottom, right corner, slip the needle through the bead again, and bring the needle down through the top, left corner.
4. Test Your Beads Most of the beads you will use for your cross-stitch projects are glass beads where the color goes through the glass. Once in a while, though, you may like the look of another bead. You will need to check that bead to see if the color is in the glass or if it just has a coating on the outside of the bead. While the coating may look nice, it is not meant to last, and the color could chip off and ruin the effect of your project. Also, if you plan to wash your project, the beads will definitely lose the coating.
You can test the beads by putting them in your hands and rubbing your hands together. Check for flakes or pieces of color that come off. You can also put them into acid to see if the color comes off.
5. Check the Manufacturer's advice For the most part, the glass beads you use can be washed and ironed. However, you should always check with the manufacturer first. Still, if you do choose to iron your project, remember that glass can get very hot. So you should always use a thick towel under the project. Put your cross-stitch face down on the towel and cover it with a cloth. Make sure your iron is set correctly for your fabric.
Both Alson Maseko & John Wigham are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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