As seen in Cross Stitcher
Become an instant expert in cross stitch - even if you've never picked up a needle before, it's easy with our simple stitching guide...
 Step 1Cut a 40cm thread length to start and a piece of aida material to start. Take each strand of thread individually from this shorter length, before regrouping them together. Your chart key will always tell you how many strands you need. Now thread your tapestry needle. |
 Step 2Work from the centre of your fabric and chart, and make your first cross stitch. Bring your needle up at the bottom left of your aida block, then take it down diagonally at the top right of the same block. This is known as a half cross stitch. |
 Step 3Make a second diagonal stitch, from the bottom right to top left of the same aida block. It should sit directly on top of your first half cross stitch. Congratulations - you've completed your first cross stitch! |
 Step 4Now follow with more stitches using the same method. Work from the centre of your design upwards, and then from the centre downwards. And always refer to your chart to see where to make your next stitch. |
 Step 5Once all your cross stitched areas are complete, you can now work the backstitched outlines. Swap your tapestry needle for a sharp embroidery needle, and secure your thread on the back of the fabric. |
 Step 6Make a backstitch over a single aida block in the direction as shown on the chart. Now bring your needle up a block away from this stitch, before taking it down next to your previous stitch, and so on. Backstitch should always be stitched last, and gives a lovely crisp finishing touch to your cross stitch pictures. |