Filling stitches
How to do cross stitch
Cross stitch is its own branch of needlework. It is worked on Aida or even-weave fabric, where every X sits in a square of the grid.
Use it forCounted designs on grid fabric such as aida
Strands2
LevelNext step
Step by step
- Come up at 1 and go down at 2 to make a half cross.
- Come up at 3 and go down at 4 to finish the X.
- Keep every top stitch slanting the same way.
Tip: Work a row of half crosses, then cross back along it.
Getting it right
You do not need cross stitch for either project in the Beginner Guide, but it is a wonderful bonus skill. Counted designs, samplers and simple alphabets are all built from it.
The golden rule: every top stitch slants the same way. That consistency is what makes a cross-stitch piece look smooth and professional.
For rows of the same color, work all the half crosses first, then come back along the row to complete each X. It is faster and more even.
Common mistakes
- Top stitches slanting in different directions.
- Carrying thread a long way on the back, which can show through light fabric.
