Hello, lovely stitchers! I’m delighted to share with you the magic of cross stitching, a craft that has been a significant part of my life for many years. Today, I want to take you on a journey into the heart of cross stitching, specifically focusing on how beginners can embark on this wonderful crafting adventure with the help of cross stitch kits.
At this point, I think it is important to highlight that “cross stitch” is the type of stitch that you make to create the picture, it is a form of embroidery that has grown away from the rest of the embroidery world and stands on its one, so to speak. There are lots and lots of kits available today, ranging from very simple through to huge, full cover with hundreds of colours and they take years to complete. Many stitches never move away from sewing kits, they are happy with the knowledge that once you have chosen your next project, it all arrives in one go and you are ready to start. Others like to buy the patterns, cloth (aida evenweave, linen etc) and thread separately and stitch from there, or your can do both!
Cross stitching has a rich tapestry of history, dating back centuries, through the Egyptians, South America and to China. Once, this was a simple form of creating decorative patterns on cloth, over the centuries it has evolved into a cherished hobby worldwide. Its simplicity and versatility have made it a timeless craft, loved by people of all ages. In recent years, we’ve seen a resurgence in its popularity, with modern designs and communities bringing new life to this traditional craft. The online platforms provide a huge range of kits and patterns from small and simple to huge and complex, and the social media world is full of wonderful groups, that will help the beginner and experienced through any problem.
For those new to cross stitching, kits are a blessing. These little bundles come with everything you need: a pattern, threads in all necessary colours, a suitable needle, and fabric. Perfect for beginners, they take away the guesswork of selecting the right materials and allow you to dive straight into the fun part – stitching!
When choosing a kit, especially with it being your first, please use a reputable supplier, it is well worth doing a bit of research first, check the reviews and make sure that previous buyers have been happy with the contents – sadly, some patterns and kits are not always what they seem and can be short of thread or the material provided is not suitable. There are so many to choose from now outside of the mainstream of Amazon ( lots on here too), I can suggest Etsy for kits, I have seem several fantastic small and simple kits perfect for beginners using the search “beginner cross stitch kit”, or try your local hobby store.
Selecting your first kit can be as exciting as it is daunting. Look for simple designs that appeal to you. Consider the type of fabric (I recommend Aida for starters, look for 14 count, as it gives nice size crosses and easy to see holes!) and the quality of threads. Ensure the instructions are clear – a good kit should guide you through the process seamlessly.
There are hundreds of fantastic kits out there perfect for beginners. Look for ones with positive reviews and appealing designs, with a low number of thread colours. Some kits focus on simple yet beautiful patterns, ideal for easing you into the world of cross stitching. It is worth noting, that not all kits will come with a “hoop” or “frame”. These items help hold the material whilst stitching, and although not essential, can be a help. These items are widely available from hobby stores thrift stores, online preloved sites etc, some kits will come with a frame/hoop included.
Once you’ve chosen your kit, it’s time to start! Begin by familiarising yourself with the pattern and sorting your threads. Threading the needle might be tricky at first, but with a bit of patience, you’ll get the hang of it. Remember, the back of your work needn’t be perfect – it’s the front that counts!
Getting set up can be the most difficult bit, so never be afraid to ask – reach out to your local sewing groups, online social media can often help or Google search if all else fails! Personally, I love to speak with a person, so groups would be my thing!!
Don’t be disheartened if you face challenges like tangled threads or uneven stitches – it’s all part of the learning curve. There are plenty of tips and tricks to overcome these, and remember, every stitcher started as a beginner.
After completing your first kit, the sky’s the limit! The process of cross stitching is the some, regardless of the size of the pattern – it’s your experience that makes it easier! You may choose to start experimenting with different fabric counts or colours and exploring the massive range of threads. It is also absolutely fine to buy another kit and sew that, I’ve stitched many kits, sewn from patterns on thrift store cloth and created and sewn my own patterns – cross stitch is as simple or as complex as you would like it to be.
Cross stitching con be much more than just a hobby; it’s a journey of creativity and self-expression. Whether you’re stitching to unwind or to create something beautiful for your home or a gift for someone close to you, each stitch brings its own joy. I encourage you to pick up a needle and thread and start this wonderful journey.
I’d love to hear about your cross stitching adventures! Feel free to share your experiences on my Facebook page or ask questions in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more tips, tricks, and patterns, do subscribe to the blog. Happy stitching!
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