Getting Started with Cross-Stitch: What You Need to Know

Here’s a simple guide to help you get started, step by step.

Step 1: Choose Your Design

Before anything else, pick a pattern you’ll actually enjoy stitching. Some stitchers love cute, simple cartoons or funny sayings. Others prefer intricate, museum-worthy artwork adapted into cross-stitch.

You’ll have two options:

Charts (Patterns Only): If you already have fabric, threads, and needles, this is a flexible and affordable way to go.

Kits: These include everything—fabric, threads, needle, and instructions—so you can start stitching immediately without a separate shopping list.

Both options will give you a beautiful finished piece, so it really depends on whether you prefer convenience or flexibility.

Step 2: Pick the Right Fabric

Every chart lists a recommended fabric count, such as 14, 18, 25, or 32. The count simply refers to how many stitches fit into one inch.

14- or 18-count Aida: Great for beginners or anyone who prefers larger, easier-to-see squares.

25- or 32-count evenweave: Smaller squares for a finer, more delicate finish. You can stitch “over two” threads to make it more manageable.

After more than a decade of stitching, I still reach for 18-count fabric most often—it strikes the perfect balance between detail and ease.

Step 3: Don’t Forget the Needle

A cross-stitch needle is not just any sewing needle. Tapestry needles have a blunt tip to avoid piercing your fabric and come in various sizes to match your fabric count.

Here’s a quick reference:

Size 18: 6-count Aida

Size 20: 8-count Aida

Size 22: 11-count Aida, 22–27 evenweave

Size 24: 14-count Aida, 28-count evenweave

Size 26: 16-count Aida, 32-count evenweave, 22-count Hardanger

Size 28: 18-count Aida, 36–55 evenweave

Using the correct size helps prevent fraying or stretching the holes in your fabric. And while you’re at it, consider stitching a biscornu (a quirky, decorative pin cushion) as one of your projects—it’s a fun way to store your needles. Trust me, finding a lost one with your foot is not the way you want to start your day.

Step 4: Choosing Threads (Floss)

Most stitchers stick to DMC or Anchor cotton floss, which comes in six strands you can separate to match your design. But there are other fun options to experiment with:

Kreinik Metallics for shimmer

DMC Variations for subtle, gradient color changes

Light Effects Metallics (some even glow in the dark!)

Pro Tip: Keep thread lengths manageable. Overly long strands twist, tangle, and knot, wasting your time and materials. To separate strands easily, pinch the top couple of inches and wiggle gently before pulling apart.

Step 5: The Right Scissors

While any pair of scissors can technically cut thread, embroidery scissors are designed for precision work. They make trimming easier and can even help remove stitches when you make a mistake. Many are beautifully made, with intricate designs or gold plating. They’re a luxury, but they do make the process smoother—and look gorgeous in your toolkit.

Step 6: To Hoop or Not to Hoop?

Embroidery hoops are completely optional. They keep your fabric taut, which helps make even stitches, but they can also leave creases or marks (especially wooden ones).

Personally, I stitch without one—it’s faster, and I prefer working row by row, completing all my half stitches first before going back to finish them. Try both methods and see which feels more natural to you.

Ready to Stitch?

That’s all you need to get started on your cross-stitch journey. It’s a simple, soothing craft that produces beautiful results, whether you’re making a gift, home décor, or just something relaxing to work on after a long day.