single cross stitch

by Kim
(IL)

How do I start and finish a single cross stitch, without running the floss over an empty area to start another x?



That is a great question, Kim.

Single stitches are often used in cross stitch patterns as stars in the sky or even tiny flowers scattered about. If you are stitching on a fine eveneweave or linen, taking the thread across the back is not advisable as it can show through the fabric, when the piece is framed.

There are a number of ways to tackle this situation and my favourite is as below.

If the work is to be stitched in two strands then I will actually thread the needle with a single strand. Start the stitch by leaving a loose tail on the back of the work. I complete the first half of the cross by stitching it twice (to give the two strand appearance) then I work the top leg of the stitch in the opposite direction.

When the stitches for this cross are complete I use a tiny knot to tie the beginning and ending threads together at the back of the work. As you are working with a single strand the knot will be tiny and won't create a bump. You may even wish to make two knots to ensure that stitch does not come undone.

Then I cut the thread and move across to the next single stitch and repeat.

I hope this helps.

Carol

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Kreinik
by: CE

What about confetti stitches using single strand of Kreinik braid? Struggling to anchor the stitches since the braid is prone to coming open. Any ideas?

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Cross stitch tip
by: Donna J

I have one thing to say about this—I LOVE IT!!!! Thank you so much. I’ve been cross-stitching for a while and this is the best tip I’ve ever had!!

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great idea
by: Anonymous

been trying to figure this problem out. this sounds like a great solution

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Pinstitch
by: Rick

I use the pin (or pin head) stitch:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StgebMPYTtU

I use a single strand of floss then just do the diagonals twice. That makes the stitch less bulky.

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Such a simple idea!!!
by: Anonymous

I have often struggled with these single stitches and seem to have it somewhere in my head that knots were a definite 'no no'. I'm quite happy now to start using this technique. Thanks

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single cross stitch
by: Geri

I understand this method when using double strands of thread, but my current project is single strand and there are a number of single stitches for the sky. I am concerned that if I complete the stitch by threading through the back of the stitch, it will not stay in place.

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It works!!
by: Stoler

Great idea. I work on linen and don't like threads run through the back. I am currently working on Ink Circles Garden Stars which has some single stitches in some of the motifs.

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single cross stitch tip
by: Anonymous

Fabulous Idea.
I am going to try it!
Jacinda

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What a great idea!
by: Melissa

I have started single stitches by folding a single strand and running the first half of the stitch through the loop I leave in the back, but am still left with the problem of how to finish it off. This is a perfect way to do it!

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Great Tip!
by: Anonymous

This is a very good tip and solved a problem I had stitching individual scattered snowflakes. Thank you!

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