Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.
Cross stitch is a craft that involves making a picture or other pattern of out of ‘X’ shaped stitches. It’s a type of embroidery.
What is Cross Stitch?
Cross stitch is a type of craft that involves X shaped stitches, often on fabric with a grid. It can be used to make cards, pictures, or other decorations.
How Does Cross Stitch Work?
Cross stitch is done on fabric that has a grid to follow. A special cloth known as Aida cloth is often used. The fabric used has small holes in it which are arranged in squares, and you use those holes to make a stitch.
You stitch one diagonal line in across each square, then you stitch another line in the opposite direction, on the same square. Together, these two stitches form an ‘X’ shape, hence the name ‘cross stitch’.
What Equipment Do You Need?
You may need the following items:
- Cross stitch fabric
- Embroidery thread
- Needle
- Hoop
- Scissors
- Pattern
Alternatively, complete beginners may consider buying a cross-stitch kit, such as this bookmark kit.
Is Cross Stitch Good For Beginners?
Yes, it’s a good option for beginners due to its simplicity. You don’t need to be a highly skilled painter or drawer or very artistic to cross stitch, you just have to be able to follow a chart and cope with repetition!
You can also pick up and put down your work very easily, as you would for other embroidery or knitting. Cross stitching doesn’t require messy glue, paint, or sequins, like other crafts, so doesn’t need a dedicated, protected table or craft corner.
Cross Stitch vs Embroidery
Cross stitch is a type of embroidery, but not all embroidery is classed as cross stitch. Embroidery encompasses a wide variety of stitches and techniques, and can be freeform in many cases, rather than following the grid pattern of cross stitch.
Is Cross Stitch the Same as Needlepoint?
No, although these are similar crafts, needlepoint and cross stitch are not the same.
Cross stitch consists of small X-shaped stitches that are used to make a picture or pattern. It usually is done on fabric that has a grid, such as Aida cloth. This makes it easy to count where each stitch needs to go.
Needle point, on the other hand, is done on a stiffer, open-weave canvas. It uses a diagonal stitch that is known as a ‘tent stitch’ to cover the canvas. Decorative stitches and different textures are also used.
What Can You Make with Cross Stitch?
There are several options for cross stitch projects, including:
- Framed designs
- Bookmarks
- Cards
- Decorations
Wrapping It Up
Cross stitch could be a good hobby to consider if you want a simple, beginner friendly hobby that can be picked up and put down as needed, and doesn’t need a lot of equipment or messy supplies.