Do I need to use cross stitch fabric

by Cyndal Keller
(North Carolina)

Can I use any fabric, like fabric that you just regularly sew on? Or do I need cross stitching fabric?

Carol answers...

If you are thinking of doing counted cross stitch then it is important to use a fabric which has the same number of threads in both directions. This is known as evenweave. If the thread counts are off, then your crosses will fill a rectangular area rather than a square and the whole picture will look stretched in one direction.

There are a number of fabrics designed especially for counted cross stitch, including Aida (which is know as a block weave), and the more expensive linens. Aida is ideal for beginners to the craft as it is easy to see the holes to take the needle down through.

If you are wanting to do stamped cross stitch, where the pattern is already printed onto the fabric (rather then following a chart) then you can use a wider variety of fabric. In fact here you want something where there are lots of threads per inch so that you can place the stitches exactly over the printed crosses. If you do not do this, the pattern will show and often the transfer ink will not wash out.

The choice of fabric to work on, therefore, depends on the type of embroidery you wish to undertake.

I hope this has been helpful.

Regards,

Carol