After studying all types of cross stitches. I had to try out all of them. But my first stop? Counted cross-stitch.
At first, it felt like a puzzle—
Counting squares, following patterns, and making sure every stitch landed just right. But counted cross stitch techniques aren’t that hard if you know what you are doing.
counted stitch techniques
To do counted cross-stitch by hand, follow a pattern, start from the center, make X-shaped stitches on even-weave fabric, and count carefully to keep the design accurate.
Sound the same as normal cross stitch by hand? But that’s not the case. Let me teach you Advanced counted cross stitch techniques.
Table of Contents
Counted Cross Stitch Techniques Step By Step
Counted cross stitch techniques are easy. You just need to follow 7 steps,
- Separate And Label
- Find The Center
- Load The Fabric Into Hoop
- Begin At The Center
- Follow The Design
- Stitch Outwards
- Secure Thread Ends
Separate and Label My Threads:
I’ll look at the pattern and start separating the threads by color, as instructed. Each thread has a symbol or number assigned to it, so I’ll label them on a thread organizer or index card. It makes it easier to keep track of which is which.
This trick also helps me do cross stitching vs embroidery.
Find the Center of My Design Chart
I’ll locate the arrows on my pattern chart, which show me where the center of my design is. That’s where I’ll start my stitching.
I’ll fold my fabric in half lengthwise, then in half again widthwise. The point where the folds meet is the center. I’ll mark this point with a pin or a temporary stitch.
Load the Fabric into My Hoop
I’ll place the larger hoop on top of my fabric and the smaller one underneath. I’ll adjust it so that the center of the fabric aligns with the center of the hoop.
Once it looks centered, I’ll tighten the hoop and make sure the fabric is taut but not too tight to distort the weave. This will also help you to fasten up a cross stitch.
Prepare My Thread for Stitching
I’ll check the instructions to see how many strands of thread I need for each color. Usually, floss has 6 strands, but I may only need two or more for certain colors.
I’ll carefully separate the number of strands I need for each color. I do this for every cross stitch method. I’ll take my time to avoid any tangles. I’ll thread the separated strands through the eye of the needle. If it’s tricky, I’ll dampen the end of the thread to make it easier to thread through the needle.
Begin At The Center
I’ll start at the centre point on my fabric (where I marked it earlier) and match it up with the centre of the pattern. That’s where I’ll begin my first stitch.
I won’t tie any knots. Instead, I’ll leave a short tail of thread on the back and stitch over it as I begin, securing the thread without adding any bulk.
Follow the Design Chart
I’ll refer to the symbols on the pattern and match them with the thread colors. I’ll carefully count the squares on the fabric to know exactly where to place each stitch. I’ll make sure the tension of my stitches is just right.
Not too tight (to avoid puckering) and not too loose (so the stitches stay neat and flat). If you are confused about the count, use the cross stitch count calculator.
Stitch Outwards from the Center
I’ll continue stitching outwards from the center of my fabric. This way, I can keep everything aligned and avoid the design getting off-center.
Every time I stitch, I’ll double-check my counting to ensure everything is accurate. I don’t want to mess up the design by missing a square!
Secure Thread Ends
Whenever I finish a section of stitches or run out of thread, I won’t tie knots. I’ll just weave the thread end under some existing stitches on the back of the fabric to secure it.
If the pattern calls for other stitches (like backstitching for outlines or half stitches for details), I’ll follow the instructions carefully to make sure the design looks great.
That’s how I’d do it! Following these steps carefully, I’m sure my first counted cross-stitch project will turn out beautifully.
Counted Cross Stitch Finishing Techniques
I ended the stitch normally back then, but when I was doing some cross stitch patterns, I used Waist Away Thread to finish them off.
Here is how I do it,
I start by leaving a small tail of thread as I near the end of my stitching. Instead of tying a knot, I lay the tail across the back of my stitches and stitch over it with a few regular cross stitches or running stitches.
Then,
I weave the remaining thread under the completed stitches to keep everything secure. Finally, I snip off any excess thread, making sure everything looks tidy on the back.
And that’s it! No knots, just a clean finish of the sewing project.
Counted Cross Stitch Tips And Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks that I’ve picked up along the way to make my stitching process easier, more efficient, and enjoyable:
- I always use a hoop or frame to ensure the fabric is tight enough to prevent wrinkles or puckering.
- I focus on keeping the back of my stitching clean and organized by weaving in threads and avoiding knots.
- A needle minder helps me keep my needle in place when I’m not using it.
- I’ll check my counts several times, especially for the first few stitches, to ensure the design is placed correctly.
- Cross-stitching for hours can strain my eyes. I always take breaks and rest my eyes every 20 minutes or so, especially if I’m working on fine details.
You can use those tips for your next project. Hope it will help you do the stitch faster.
How Difficult Is Counted Cross Stitch?
Counted cross stitch can vary in difficulty depending on the design and your experience level.
For beginners, it’s typically easy to start with simple patterns, as the technique itself is straightforward. Just making small X-shaped stitches in a grid following a chart.
The main challenges for beginners might be:
- Counting accurately: Keeping track of your stitch count can take practice.
- Thread tension: Getting the right balance of tension, not too tight or too loose, can be tricky at first.
- Design complexity: Larger or more detailed patterns with many color changes may feel overwhelming.
As you get more experienced, the process becomes smoother. Advanced designs with intricate details or specialty stitches can add complexity. But they’re not necessary for basic counted cross-stitch projects.
Overall, it’s a relaxing hobby once you’ve learned the basics, and the difficulty can be adjusted based on the complexity of the design you choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Way To Do Counted Cross Stitch?
The best way to do counted cross stitch is to start from the center of your fabric and design, work with good lighting, and keep your stitches consistent in direction. Using a hoop or frame helps keep the fabric taut.
How To Count Counted Cross Stitch Patterns?
To count a counted cross stitch pattern, locate the center of the design (usually marked with arrows on the chart), then count outward from there. Each square on the pattern represents one stitch on your fabric.
Have Any More Questions About Counted Cross Stitch Techniques?
That’s the counted cross stitch technique I follow, and at first, it may feel hard. But the more you practice, the more it will get easier.
So what do you think about it? Have you tried it yet?
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