Our goal in preparing designs for you is to "keep them simple" yet elegant and interesting. You will see that our models were stitched on AIDA fabric which is very "stitcher friendly." Our designs work beautifully on other fabrics, such as Hardanger or linen. Each design shown on our web site has a brief description that includes the type of fabric used for our model, the thread count, a computer generated chart, plus a color picture. We use basic cross stitches plus back stitching as needed. Chart enlargements for certain designs are also included.

Fabric: All of our models were stitched on AIDA fabric. It is the most popular fabric for counted cross stitch. It can be purchased in a variety of colors and stitch count sizes. The "count" for AIDA fabric goes from 6 to 18. What does that mean? The number relates to the number of stitches per square inch. If you are using 18 count AIDA fabric, there will be 18 stitches per inch. AIDA fabric is made from 100% cotton and is very washable. See washing instructions below.

How much fabric do I need for my design? A stitch count is given for every design. For example: 126 stitches wide x 98 high. If you are using 14-count AIDA fabric, divide each number by 14. 126 divided by 14 equals 9. 98 divided by 14 equals 7. Now add 3 inches to each number. Results: you will need a piece of 14-count AIDA fabric that is 12" x 10". This formula can be used for all the different sizes of AIDA fabric. Your local store will always help you obtain the correct amount of fabric for AIDA, linen, etc.

Preparing fabric. It is best not to wash AIDA fabric before you begin stitching. There is a sizing in the fabric that keeps it firm and fresh while you are stitching. It is suggested that you whipstitch or zig-zag the edges to prevent it from unraveling. Some stitchers prefer to tape the edges with masking tape that can be removed easily when your project is completed.

6-Strand Floss. Our designs were stitched with 6-strand 100% cotton floss. There are several companies that make this product and our designs indicate the color numbers needed for several of these companies. For example, if a design calls for black floss, the DMC number is 310, the J&PCoats number is 8403 and the Anchor number is 403—they are all black! How do you use 6-strand floss? Our designs require the use of 2 of the 6-strands when stitching (except for backstitching). Most stitchers prefer to work with an 18" pieces of floss. (A 36" piece of 1-strand floss folded in half can also be used.) Once you have cut your 18" piece of floss, hold the end and gently pull out one strand. Repeat.

Washing instructions: After stitching is complete, gently wash the fabric to remove any dirt, hoop marks or oil from hands. Use gentle cleaning agents such as baby soap or hand-wash products that do not contain chlorine bleach. Do not rub or wring out fabric. Rinse several times in cool water to remove all soap. Lay fabric face down on a white towel and roll up to remove excess water. Do not air dry stitched fabric. Cover wet fabric with a white cloth (towel, diaper) and press until dry.

Needles: Cross stitch needles are blunt and have a long narrow eye for ease in threading. It should slip easily through the threads of the fabric and not pierce it. I prefer using a #24 needle for the larger AIDA fabric (14 count or smaller) and a #26 needle for #16 count AIDA fabric or larger. You do not want the needle to be so large that it widens the gap between the threads as you stitch. Too large a needle can tire the hands as you try and push if between the threads.

Stitching Hints: Always cross all stitches in the same direction throughout the entire piece. Do no knot floss. Instead, thread your needle and at the fabric center, push the threaded needle up through the fabric back while holding the loose end of the floss underneath the fabric with your finger. Pull the floss up through the fabric. Push the needle down through the fabric and stitch over the fabric tail to secure it with the first few stitches. When you have finished with one color, weave it back through your last few stitches and clip it closely.

If it is necessary to skip a few spaces on the fabric in order to continue a row of stitches in the same color, it is not necessary to end off the thread. The floss can be carried across the back but not more than ¼" to ½". Never carry floss over an area that will remain unstitched as it may show through.