Counted Cross Stitch Patterns, A Basis For Stitching Bliss
By: Julia Wigham
Every cross stitcher, whether new to the craft or experienced, knows the most important tool needed is of course the counted cross stitch patterns. Without them, there would be nothing to stitch. You can find them individually in magazines, from
websites on the Internet or in a cross stitch kit. The kits offer the advantage of having all the materials necessary to stitch that particular project, including the pattern.
Just beginning your journey into this amazing craft? Here's a quick tip for you; there are two basic kinds of cross stitch patterns. One type is printed charts usually found in pattern books called leaflets. These patterns can be stitched on anything you want. You have total control with your project when using this kind of pattern. The other type is the stamped designs which are preprinted on items for you. These patterns are usually in blue, and can be found on several different items. Some things that may have preprinted patterns on them are a baby bib or a pillowcase. These items can be bought at most craft stores, and have the pattern already imprinted on the piece for you.
Many newcomers to the world of cross stitch choose to begin with a stamped cross stitch item. These can either have the entire pattern or just a portion of the design stamped onto the piece for you. It is very easy to follow because you can see exactly where the stitches should go. They even have some stamped cross stitch kits showing the preprinted designs in colors so you know exactly where the colors should be placed. While these items are great for beginners, eventually after mastering the basic cross stitch, many people choose to seek out a more challenging project.
Counted cross stitch patterns are worked from a chart, where each symbol represents a different colored thread. They are stitched on evenweave fabric ensuring that each stitch will be the same size as its neighbours and aligned perfectly. Large counted designs can include intricate details that require careful counting to avoid mistakes.
Another benefit to counted cross stitch patterns is that you can also make some modifications to the pattern. If you don't like the way a pattern looks, you can adjust it to suit your needs. You can also take components from one pattern and use it to create an entirely different design.
So where can you start your search for the "perfect" pattern? Your local craft shop or discount store should have an assortment of kits for you to browse through. The chances are they will also have a selection of books or leaflets on various themes.
If you cannot find just the right work of art locally, why not try searching the internet. Many of the great artists, including modern painters, have had their paintings turned into cross stitch patterns for you to recreate in stitches.
Starting a new hobby, especially one as diverse as cross stitch, can be exciting. Choosing the counted cross stitch patterns to stitch can be frustrating. Overcome the frustration by deciding upon the type of cross stitch pattern you would like, and then searching for it online. The door to the world of cross stitch is wide open, take the step through, and find the bliss of cross stitch.
Julia Wigham is a professional author and co-founder of Patterns Patch cross stitch forums. An online cross stitch club whose members get free: patterns, articles and tutorials. Come to our colorful cross stitch blogs today!
Article Source: http://www.rightarticle.com
BINDING STITCH
The Binding Stitch is used primarily to finish needlework. It may also be used to join two pieces of canvas. When complete it forms a braid-like appearance. The Binding Stitch is
Binding Stitch (Diagram 1):
Bring the needle up at A, move over the fold, bring the needle down at B. Bring the needle up at C, move over the fold and to the right three canvas threads, brng the needle down at D. Bring the needle up at B, move over the fold and to the right three canvas threads, bring the needle down at
E. Now, continue on to the Diagram 2...
Binding Stitch (Diagram 2):
To better illustrate this stitch, the stitching done in Diagram 1 is shown in dark blue. Beginning where we left off at E, bring the needle up at C, move over the fold and to the right four canvas threads, bring the needle down at G. Bring the needle up at F, move over the fold and to the right three canvas threads, bring the needle down at H. Now, continue on to Diagram 3...
Binding Stitch (Diagram 3):
Beginning where we left off at H, bring the needle up at I, move over the fold and to the right three canvas threads, bring the needle down at G. Bring the needle up at J, move over the fold and to the right three canvas threads, bring the needle down at K. Diagram 4 shows a complete Binding Stitch sample.
Binding Stitch (Diagram 4)
This diagram illustrates how the binding stitch should look when complete.
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similar to the Long-Armed Cross Stitch. In the diagrams below, the space showing no threads is where the canvas is folded. Four diagrams have been used to demonstrate this stitch. Clicking on the PRINTABLE VERSION icon, located at the end of the series of diagrams, will direct you to the page to print these instructions.
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Do you have a sample of this stitch that you would like to share? If so, click here...
***Stitch Index*** (Alphabetical)
A - I
***Stitch Index*** (Alphabetical)
I - Z
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Stitch-opedia
An encyclopedia of needlepoint Stitches...
