I was doing embroidery that day when someone came and said, ‘oh you are doing cross stitch! It’s so beautiful!’ I got annoyed and said it was embroidery, not crossstitch. 😒 she looked confused and said, ‘what’s the difference between cross stitch vs embroidery? Isn’t the same?’
It’s not the same. There is a difference. For intense,
Cross-stitch is a type of stitch that uses X-shaped stitches on even-weave fabric, while embroidery is made with various stitching techniques.
She didn’t look very convinced, so I decided to sit down with her and have a clear discussion.
Main facts,
- Cross-stitch uses X-shaped stitches on a grid, while embroidery involves various freeform stitches.
- Cross-stitch takes longer because of its structured design, while embroidery can be quicker, depending on complexity.
- Many stitchers combine cross-stitch, embroidery, and needlepoint for unique effects.
Table of Contents
Cross Stitch Vs Embroidery: What Makes Them So Different From Each Other
Cross stitch works are stunning. And it looks like an artwork. That’s why people tend to mix it with embroidery. But the reality is different.
They differ on many levels. For intense,
Thread For Embroidery & Cross-Stitch
When I do hand embroidery, I love experimenting with different types of thread
- Cotton
- Silk
- Polyester
- Rayon
- Tapestry yarn
- Even wool.
The thread choice mainly varies depending on which type of stitch you choose to do embroidery.
For cross-stitch,
I mostly use stranded cotton thread. It comes in 6 strands, and I can separate them to adjust the thickness depending on the pattern.
Needle For Cross-Stitch & Embroidery
The general rule for choosing an embroidery needle is simple: use a larger needle for heavier fabrics like canvas and a smaller needle for lighter fabrics.
If I’m stitching small letters, I use a fine needle with a sharp point for precision. For dense fabrics like leather or suede, a sharp titanium needle works best to pierce through smoothly.
The needle size depends on the number of strands of fabric you are doing embroidery:
- 1-2 strands: Size 9-10 needles
- 3-4 strands: Size 7-9 needles
- 5-6 strands: Size 5-7 needles
For cross-stitch,
Tapestry needles are perfect for cross stitches. The most commonly used sizes are 24 and 26. But they also come in 20, 22, 24, 26, and 28. If I use a size 28 needle, I stick to just one strand of floss since the eye is delicate and can break easily.
Fabric For Embroidery And Cross-Stitch
The most commonly used fabrics for cross-stitching are 16 count Aida and Evenweave/linen.
Both come in the same counts but are made from different materials—Evenweave is a cotton-modal blend, while linen is linen! These fabrics are ideal for cross-stitching because of their evenly spaced weave.
For embroidery stitches,
If you’re just starting, go for plain 100% cotton—keep it simple! Woven cotton has a tight, even weave with a smooth surface. It’s easy to work with and gives your stitches a clean, polished look.
Hoop For Embroidery Vs Cross-Stitch
For embroidery,
I like to choose my hoop size based on the design. If I’m working on a small, detailed piece, I use a 4-inch or 6-inch hoop to keep my fabric taut without stretching it too much.
For cross-stitch,
The hoop size depends more on the fabric count and overall project size. Since Aida and Evenweave fabrics already have a structured weave.
I usually prefer a 6-inch to 8-inch hoop for most projects. If I’m working on something big. I might use a Q-snap frame instead of a hoop to avoid creases.
Definition Of Cross Stitch Vs Embroidery
Above are the material differences between both stitches. They both differ in general, too.
Cross-stitch is a type of counted thread embroidery where you create X-shaped stitches. It follows a grid pattern. It is great for detailed and symmetrical designs, such as samplers, landscapes, and decorative patterns.
On the other hand,
Embroidery is a broader term that covers many different stitching techniques. It includes freehand designs stitched onto fabric using various stitches like satin stitch, backstitch, and French knots.
In short, cross-stitch is structured and grid-based, while embroidery is more freeform and versatile.
Now you get the difference? I hope you did, but still, here is a glance at the difference between cross stitch vs embroidery.
| Feature | Cross-Stitch | Embroidery |
| Definition | A form of counted thread embroidery using X-shaped stitches on a grid. | A broad category of needlework using various stitches to create designs. |
| Stitching Style | Follows a grid pattern with uniform X-shaped stitches. | Can be freehand or structured, with different stitch types. |
| Fabric Used | Aida, Evenweave, and Linen (evenly woven fabrics). | Woven cotton, linen, silk, canvas, and other smooth fabrics. |
| Thread Used | Mostly stranded cotton (6-strand floss). | Cotton, silk, polyester, rayon, tapestry yarn, and even wool. |
| Needle Type | Tapestry needles (blunt tips) in sizes 20-28. | Sharp embroidery needles in sizes 5-10, depending on the fabric and thread. |
| Hoop Size | 6” to 8” hoops, or Q-snap frames for larger projects. | 4” to 10” hoops, depending on the design size. |
| Design Style | Symmetrical and detailed patterns, often pixel-like. | More flexible and artistic, with different stitch textures. |
| Best For | Samplers, decorative patterns, landscapes, and counted designs. | Floral designs, portraits, lettering, and detailed embellishments. |
Well, Then, What’s The Difference Between Cross Stitch Vs Embroidery Vs Needlepoint?
After clearing out the difference between cross-stitch and embroidery stitch. She shoots me with another stitching confusion. And that is Cross stitch vs embroidery vs needlepoint.
I laughed and said,
Just like cross-stitch and embroidery stitch differ. Needlepoint also stands on its kind too. All 3 are totally different from each other. Here is how,
Cross-stitch uses X-shaped stitches on gridded fabric for detailed designs. Embroidery is freeform, using various sitch. Needlepoint is stitched on a stiff canvas, fully covering it with dense stitches for a textured look.
What Takes Longer, Cross Stitch Or Embroidery?
Cross-stitch usually takes more time than embroidery. Cause creating the x effect takes more time than simple stitch work.
For example,
A small cross-stitch pattern, like a simple 2×2-inch design, can take 3-6 hours, while a medium-sized piece (around 5×7 inches) can take anywhere from 20 to 50 hours.
On the other hand,
Embroidery projects can be much quicker, especially for simple designs. A small outline or lettering piece might take me just 1-3 hours, while a moderate design with different stitches could take 10-30 hours.
So, embroidery is usually the way to go if I’m looking for a quick project. But if I want something super detailed and structured, I know cross-stitch will take more time!
Is It Easier To Cross Stitch Or Embroidery?
Personally, I find cross-stitch more beginner-friendly because it follows a simple grid pattern, and you’re only making X-shaped stitches. You’re good to go as long as you can count and follow a pattern.
The challenge comes with larger designs, color changes, and keeping stitches neat. But overall, it’s a repetitive and relaxing process.
And
Embroidery is more freeform and requires learning different stitches, like satin stitch, French knots, and chain stitch. So, it will be hard to handle if you are a beginner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Embroidery Thread For Cross-Stitch And Needlepoint?
Yes! Stranded embroidery floss works for all three, but for needlepoint, you may need thicker threads like wool or pearl cotton for better coverage.
Which One Takes The Longest To Finish?
Cross stitch designs and needlepoint often take longer because they involve filling in designs with small, precise stitches. Embroidery can be quicker, especially for simple patterns.
Can I Mix These Techniques In One Project?
Absolutely! Many stitchers combine cross-stitch with embroidery for added texture or use needlepoint backgrounds with embroidered details.
Closing
So yes, that’s what makes cross stitch vs embroidery different. I rest my case there. She nobbed with a happy face and left, saying, ‘I won’t confuse the 2 things again ever.’ 😁
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