Cross Stitch 101: Everything You Need to Get Started

Cross stitch is a satisfying craft that is both creative and calming. If you're looking for a new hobby or have seen all of the beautiful completed pieces on social media, this guide will get you started with confidence.

What is Cross Stitch?

Cross stitch is a form of thread embroidery that is counted and uses X-shaped stitches to create a picture from a pattern onto a piece of fabric. Some patterns also include half stitches and quarter stitches which are used to create smaller, more detailed designs.

Essential supplies that you will need:

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Fabric – Most beginners start with Aida cloth (14-count is standard). I still prefer to use Aida cloth.

Embroidery floss – DMC is a popular, widely available, and my preferred brand.

Needle – Size 24 or 26 tapestry needles work well for Cross Stitch. Funny Fact: Out of all the years I have been a Cross Stitcher, I have never purchased needles. I just keep the needles that come with the kits and I never run out.

Hoop or frame – Keeps your fabric taut and easier to stitch. I started out using a hoop and had such a hard time ironing out the creases. I finally switched to a Q-Snap and I absolutely love mine!

Scissors – Small, sharp scissors help with precise snipping.

Pattern – Start with a simple, beginner-friendly design and work your way up to a more detailed pattern. Patterns can be found in magazines and digitally from websites such as Etsy.

Here is a list of my absolute favorite must have supplies!

First Steps:

When choosing your pattern, look for small motifs like hearts, animals, or letters when you are first beginning to learn the technique. Click here for a few beginner patterns that you could try.

When cutting and prepping your fabric, leave at least 2 inches of extra fabric around the pattern area to give you plenty of space.

To find the starting point on your fabric, you will need to fold your fabric in half at the top and bottom to locate the center point. This is where you will start your stitches.

Now you can find the center of your pattern and start stitching! Most patterns will use two strands of floss for full stitches and one strand for backstitching. You will stitch from the bottom left over one square to the top right, then the bottom right to the top left.

For more details on how to Cross Stitch, here is a great tutorial video!

Helpful Tips:

Keep your floss organized using bobbins or a thread organizer. I prefer wrapping my floss on bobbins and storing them in storage boxes.

You can use a highlighter to mark your progress on printed patterns to keep from forgetting where you left off.

Don’t stress mistakes—most are easy to fix! Most of the time I will back my thread out of the wrong location so that I can reuse it... instead of cutting it.

Cross stitch is about enjoyment, not perfection. Take your time and celebrate the small wins—one stitch at a time.

How to Read a Cross Stitch Pattern (Without Feeling Overwhelmed).

At first glance, a cross stitch pattern can look like a chaotic grid of symbols—but don’t worry! Once you understand the layout, it’s easy to follow.

Understanding the Basics

A pattern is a grid. Each square equals one stitch. Each symbol or color inside those squares represent which thread color to use.

Key Parts of a Pattern:

Pattern/Chart: A visual map showing where each stitch goes.

Legend/Key: Lists symbols and the corresponding floss colors (e.g., ▲ = DMC 310).

Stitch Count: Tells you how large the design will be (e.g., 60w x 40h).

Steps to Read a Pattern:

Find the center: When looking at your pattern, you can find the center by finding the marks at the top and side of your pattern. If you follow the lines and connect them, you will find your starting point on your pattern.

Identify symbols: Match each one to the legend to know which color to use. Beside the symbol is a number that will match the number of the thread color that you are using.

Plan your approach: Work in small sections, usually starting in the center and working your way out.

Mark your progress: Use a pencil or highlighter to track what you’ve completed if you like. This will help you to pick up where you left off after putting your project away.

Tips for Success:

Photocopy your pattern if you're nervous about marking it up. This way you still have the original, but can work with the copy.

Use a magnetic board or app like Pattern Keeper for digital help. I use a wooden cookbook stand to hold my paper patterns.

Keep your working area well-lit to avoid eye strain. I use an LED desk light and it really helps me to see the pattern better.

With a little practice, reading a cross stitch pattern will become second nature—and even kind of fun and possibly addicting!

Happy Stitching!