Cross-stitch articles
Short articles on cross-stitch: how to read a pattern, how to choose materials and what the reference tables mean. Each one links to the tables, tools and patterns it mentions.
Aida, evenweave and linen compared
How the three common cross-stitch fabrics differ in how the stitches are placed, how they look finished, and which one to start on.
Updated 30 Sep 2026 · 4 minCross-stitchFinding the centre and starting a chart
How to mark the middle of the fabric and the middle of the chart so the design sits square, and where to begin stitching.
Updated 30 Sep 2026 · 4 minCross-stitchHalf stitches, three-quarter stitches and backstitch
The partial stitches used for curves and fine detail in a chart, how to work them, and how to place backstitch outlines.
Updated 30 Sep 2026 · 4 minCross-stitchPressing and framing finished cross stitch
How to wash, press and mount a finished piece so the stitches stand proud and the frame fits, with cloth margins and mounting methods.
Updated 30 Sep 2026 · 4 minCross-stitchRow by row or cross by cross
The two ways to work a block of cross stitch, why the top stitches must all lie the same way, and how to park threads across a chart.
Updated 30 Sep 2026 · 4 minCross-stitchSubstituting thread colours
How to swap a colour on a chart, what to match besides the hue, and how to keep the change from flattening the design.
Updated 30 Sep 2026 · 4 minCross-stitchFabric count and strands
How aida count changes the size of a design, how many strands of floss to use, and how evenweave differs.
Updated 29 Sep 2026 · 2 minCross-stitchReading a cross-stitch chart
What the symbols, grid lines and legend on a counted chart mean and where to start stitching.
Updated 29 Sep 2026 · 2 minCross-stitchStarting and finishing threads
Ways to anchor a new length of floss without a knot and to finish the end so the back stays flat.
Updated 29 Sep 2026 · 2 min