Category
12 articles
Confetti stitches are isolated single stitches of different colours scattered across a pattern. Learn why they happen and how to reduce them.
Reducing the colour count in your cross stitch pattern makes it faster to stitch, cheaper to buy thread for, and often better looking. Here is how to do it.
Not every photo makes a good cross stitch pattern. Learn what to look for - contrast, lighting, composition - and how to prepare your image before converting.
A practical comparison of DMC and Anchor stranded cotton for cross stitch. Thread feel, colour range, availability in the UK, pricing, and when to use each.
Aida count is the number of stitchable squares per inch. Learn what 14-count, 16-count, and 18-count mean and which to choose for your project.
Realistic cross stitch time estimates based on pattern size and stitching speed. From small bookmarks to year-long projects, with tips to stitch faster.
An honest comparison of the main cross stitch pattern software: PCStitch, WinStitch, Stitch Fiddle, KG-Chart, and Xstitchify. Features, pricing, platforms, and which to choose.
Learn the formula for calculating cross stitch fabric size. Work out how much Aida or evenweave you need for any pattern, including margins for hoops and framing.
What is evenweave fabric and how does it compare to Aida for cross stitch? Covers thread counts, stitching over 2 threads, and when to choose evenweave.
A guide to cross stitch thread types: stranded cotton, metallic, silk, and more. Includes a comparison table, brand recommendations, and how to choose the right thread.
What does fabric count mean in cross stitch? Compare 14-count, 16-count, 18-count Aida and 28-count evenweave to choose the right fabric for your pattern.
Learn how to read a cross stitch pattern chart: symbols, colour keys, grid references, backstitch lines, and tips for tracking your progress.