(Click on picture for demonstration)

(Click on picture for demonstration)

BACK STITCH

Back stitches are worked after cross stitches have been completed. They may slope in any direction and are occasionally worked over more than one square of fabric. (see diagram above) Thread comes up at odd numbers and down at even.

Only one strand of floss is normally used for backstitching

Bring your thread up where indicated on chart, wrap floss once around needle, and reinsert needle close to, but at least one thread away, from where thread first came up. (see diagram above) Hold wrapping thread tightly, close to surface of fabric. Pull needle through letting thread go just as knott is formed.

A straight stitch as above, is made like a long back stitch. Come up at one end of the stitch and down at the other.

Be sure to secure thread well at the beginning and ending of a group of straight stitches so they stay taut.

This stitch is used for things like a cats whiskers.

Standard embroidery floss consists of six threads twisted together. In general, lengths of 14"-18" are cut, then all the strands are separated. Usually, pulling one strand while holding the rest near the top will separate it without actually creating a knot (the rest of the strands will make loops under the held point). Once all the strands are loose, recombine them to the number specified in the instructions.

Note: When choosing or comparing colours, try natural light - fluorescents can be misleading.

(Click here for demonstration of how to separate threads)

TWISTED THREAD

As you stitch your floss may become twisted, if this happens just drop your needle and let it hang down. It will unwind by itself.

HYGIENE

To keep you aida and floss clean always wash your hands before starting to stitch. If your hands become sweaty whilst stitching rewash them.

It may be tempting but don't eat or drink whilst stitching. It is too easy to spill things on your work and spoil it. If you do need sustenance take a break, and put your work out of harms way. and remember to wash your hands again before resuming.

Better safe than sorry.

There are several ways of attaching beads, the above method is probably one of the easiest.

In this method you only complete one half of the cross stitch, threading the bead onto your needle as you go along.

Another method is to split the 2 strands of floss so they pass either side of the bead on the second part of the cross stitch. This is a good way of securing it in the middle of the cross.

Alternately if your not a very experienced stitcher you can add the beads afterwards with a single matching colour thread following the direction of the top cross stitch.

When your stitching is complete, wash in cool water using a mild liquid detergent. Rinse well. Do not wring, but roll in a clean towel to absorb most of the water. While still damp, place face down on a terry towel. Place another cloth on top of the needlework and press lightly with a warm iron. Let dry. Then frame or finish as desired.