The obligatory quality of a real lady is her ability to needlework. One of the most popular types of needlework is cross-stitch. The roots of this craft go deep into primitive culture. Initially, the cross was used for sewing clothes, later they began to decorate clothes with ornaments and create real works of art - embroidered canvases.

Embroidery different countries, eras and peoples are distinguished by ethnic characteristics. But this only emphasizes the versatility of this type of needlework. We have collected for you different schemes cross-stitch, which will suit both experienced craftswomen and beginner needlewomen, and completely free of charge.

Features of the cross stitch technique

• pattern width - 42 crosses;
• it is recommended to perform the scheme on canvas Aida 14;
• take the width of the canvas 11.6 cm, taking into account the allowance for the edges;
• in the ornaments, we made an allowance of 3 cm from the bottom and top;
• adjust the length of the canvas depending on the width of the proposed towel;
• for embroidery, use DMS threads in two colors;
• the best combination of colors is red and black;
• for a high-quality pattern, sew up the space between the elements of the ornament with crosses made with white threads.

Ornament with corner

Sometimes you need to decorate a frame with an ornament or sheathe a towel around the perimeter. Perfect for these purposes following diagram made in motives.

• ornament width - 70 crosses;
• there is a corner element;
• to complete the work you will need Aida 14 canvas;
• take a canvas 18.7 cm wide, taking into account the allowance for the edges of the ornament;
• we provided for an allowance of 3 cm from the bottom and top of the ornament;
• for embroidery, use floss threads of two colors;
• the pattern looks great with a combination of dark blue and blue threads;
• to make the work look decent, we recommend sewing up the gaps between the colored elements of the ornament with crosses made of white threads.

Butterfly

You can decorate postcards or souvenirs with a pattern. The cross stitch pattern for a beautiful butterfly is quite simple, anyone can handle it.

• picture size - 130x110 crosses;
• for work you will need canvas Aida 16;
• use a canvas measuring 26.6x23.4 cm, taking into account the allowance;
• the drawing is small, we provided for an allowance of 3 cm on each side;
• for embroidery, use DMS threads in 7 colors;
• All colors can be easily matched to the drawing.

hearts

These cute hearts will be a great decoration for a card or an independent gift for Valentine's Day. The drawing is simple, any novice craftswoman can handle it.

• picture dimensions - 47x47 crosses;
• for work, take canvas Aida 11;
• you need a canvas measuring 16.9x16.9 cm, taking into account the allowance;
• the picture is small, an allowance of 3 cm is calculated for the frame;
• you will need floss threads of 4 colors;
• you can choose the colors according to the picture, the gamma can be changed at will.

Snowflakes

This cross stitch pattern can be attributed to ornaments. It is quite possible to embroider pillows with such snowflakes. The pattern is simple in execution, but it looks very impressive, especially on a colored canvas.

• take FADE 14;
• the figure shows 5 snowflakes of different sizes;
• the size of the upper left: 37x37 crosses, on the canvas it occupies an area of ​​6.7x6.7 cm;
• two lower snowflakes measuring 35x35 crosses will occupy squares 6.3x6.3 cm;
• two small snowflakes measuring 17x17 crosses will occupy squares measuring 3.1x3.1 cm;
• white DMS thread is used for embroidery;
• you can use colored canvas.

Animals and plants

Here are selected several schemes depicting animals, birds and flowers, different in degree of complexity and size.

cute little sheep

Even a novice needlewoman can handle this little fun pattern.

• picture size - 50x50 crosses;
• you will need Aida 14 canvas;
• take a canvas measuring 15x15 cm with a frame;
• in the dimensions of the canvas, an allowance of 3 cm is taken into account on each side of the pattern;
• select floss threads according to the picture;
• you will need 9 colors in total.

Firebird

This miracle bird will decorate any pillow. The drawing is quite large, but beginner needlewomen can handle it - it is simple.

• picture size - 96x158 cells;
• the work looks good on canvas Aida 14;
• for work you will need a canvas measuring 23.5x34.7 cm, taking into account allowances;
• the picture is relatively small, a frame of 3 cm is taken into account on each side of the picture;
• DMS threads are required to work;
• use 6 colors matched from the picture;
• The range of colors can be changed to your liking.

• picture size - 250x300 crosses;
• We recommend using Aida 16 canvas;
• use a piece of canvas measuring 50.6x42.2 cm with allowances;
• the work is large, the size of the canvas includes an indent of 5 cm on each side;
• use floss threads of 120 colors;
• choose colors according to the picture.

prancing horse

This is very beautiful scheme for cross stitch. Recommended for needlewomen with experience.

• embroidery size - 300x236 crosses;
• the drawing made on canvas Aida 16 is good;
• take a canvas measuring 57.6x47.4 cm with a frame;
• the picture is quite large, the allowance for the frame is 5 cm on each side;
• you will need DMS threads in 75 colors;
• select all colors and shades according to the drawing.

Roses

This is a pattern of roses for cross stitch of medium complexity.

• picture size - 200x155 crosses;
• as a basis, take Aida 16 canvas;
• for the diagram, use a canvas measuring 41.74x34.6 cm, taking into account the frame;
• we took into account an indent of 5 cm on each side of the picture;
• take floss threads of 60 colors;
• All colors and shades can be easily selected from the picture.

Video with cross stitch master class lessons with patterns for beginners

This video shows the basics of the basics. It is told how to make crosses correctly, how to mark the canvas. The lesson uses a ready-made embroidery kit for beginners.

This video shows in detail one of the ways to cross stitch. It demonstrates in detail how to secure the thread using the loop method without turning the embroidery.

The video demonstrates in detail the "parking" cross stitch method. The essence and advantages of the method are described and shown in detail.

The video demonstrates two embroidery techniques: half-cross and tapestry stitch. Shows how to create both types of stitches and how they differ.

This video clearly shows how to embroider in two punctures. It tells about all the details of embroidery, shows how to quickly make half stitches.

Cross stitch as one of the types of needlework

Cross-stitch has always been considered a noble art. Society ladies in fashion houses more than once they spent their evenings embroidering their works in the company of other needlewomen. Possession of embroidery technique has always been considered something high, beautiful and was charged with the duties of every noble lady.

To date, there are a lot of embroidery patterns for every taste, color, size and any complexity of execution. You can buy embroidery kits, or you can choose any pattern and use a special program to develop a pattern for embroidery yourself. Share in the comments, do you like to embroider?

There are many types of embroidery. It is divided mainly into two varieties - satin stitch embroidery and cross stitch. Although there are still examples. Counted cross - one of the types of embroidery on the cells.

Embroidery embroidery strife

The counted cross is the oldest of all types of embroidery, in which the main element is a crosshair of threads. Today, needlewomen can also talk about printed cross-stitch or uncountable embroidery. This type of needlework came into being as a result of a desire to help needlewomen - why bother with the count, if you can just work on a canvas with a pattern applied to it. Change the thread to a different shade in time - and you do not need to constantly recalculate the elements in the diagram, and then compare them according to the work done. But the true counting cross is real pride in the result. And it is expensive. Moreover, for those who are truly passionate about embroidery, it is the counted cross that is real creativity, but embroidery based on a printed pattern on canvas is just pampering.

Where to begin? From theory

Counted cross stitch is based on the absolute precision of the embroiderer: one incorrectly stitched cross - and the work can go awry if the mistake is not found and corrected in time. This, of course, will cause large losses in time. Therefore, an important element of embroidery in the technique of counting cross - schemes. The drawing that makes you want to work is transferred to the scheme - multi-colored cells indicating piece crosses of a certain color. Such schemes were developed in abundance by embroiderers both independently and with the help of special computer programs.

Cross stitch technique

Counted cross stitch, the schemes of which can be the simplest, monochromatic, or contain many color shades, involves working with only one technical element - a cross. Most often, a simple cross is used, although there are several techniques for performing such an element. A simple cross is the most convenient way to work with an account. It is done like this:

• base - square;
• the first stitch is laid from one corner of the square to the diagonally opposite corner;
• the second stitch captures the next pair of diagonal corners, returning the needle to the side where you started work.

In order for the result to be of high quality and look as neat as possible, all crosses must be done in the same way. For example, first the diagonals are sewn from the upper left corner to the lower right, and then the diagonals from the upper right corner to the lower left. Each embroiderer decides for herself how it is more convenient for her to work - from right to left and from top to bottom or vice versa, it does not matter. It is important that all crosses look the same.

How to fill in the picture field?

Cross-stitch embroidery allows you to fill the body of the pattern with one color in the required areas without breaking the thread.

This is convenient for those who are very attentive to the count of stitches and know how to navigate the change of color on an empty pattern field. But it is much easier, according to many who have already mastered this type of needlework, to use the so-called row method. What is its essence? With a thread of the same color, crosses of the same row are completely stitched, that is, both in the forward and in the opposite direction, in a row. The thread changes to the next color, and the same row is stitched with the required number of crosses of a different color. If the distance between two separate sections of a row of the same color is small, then the thread can not be broken, but by counting the number of cells of a different color, continue working with the color of the thread that started the row. So, stitching row after row, they embroider a counted cross. The technique of cross-stitching using the in-line method is more convenient and simpler, it allows you to make fewer mistakes than if you first filled in areas of the same color on the entire field, then another, then the third, and so on.

To keep the thread from slipping

Any work with threads requires their fastening so that the thread does not slip during operation or operation of the product. For this, knots are made. But in this kind of needlework, like embroidery, knots are not made. Well, how to embroider a counted cross? The description of the beginning of work for those who are just getting acquainted with this type of needlework will begin with the rules for attaching a working thread. There are two of them:

• no knots;
• no "tails".

These seem to be completely impossible requirements. But in fact, everything is very simple. The working thread is held precisely by its "tail", but it must be hidden. And you can hide the tail of the working thread either from the inside of the work, or from the front side. On the “face”, it is convenient to hide the tip of the thread when the skein for embroidery is thick enough, then the tail is brought to the front side from the first stitch and, during work, is placed under several subsequent stitches until it disappears completely behind them. On the wrong side, things happen in exactly the same way, but the tail of the thread is hidden under the transition stitches. The wrong side as a place for attaching the working thread is most suitable when the skein is not too thick in relation to the size of the canvas cell, on the front side it will be visible through the stitches. But even a thick skein will give excessive volume to the stitches, so the wrong side for attaching the thread in this way is still more preferable than the front. Some embroiderers secure the end of the thread by tightening a loop on the canvas thread. What method is more convenient and practical to fasten the working "tail" - the embroiderer decides.

working material

Any work, including creative, requires material. In embroidery, a counted cross is:

• Canvas. It can serve as the basis of the work, its canvas. Such a canvas has a dense texture, the weave is elastic, rather rigid, the threads do not diverge from each other, but keep the shape of the cells. But there is another canvas - as a help. Such a canvas is applied to the base fabric for the uniformity of the crosses, and at the end of the embroidery, it is pulled out of the pattern line by line.
• Threads for cross stitch. Use different threads - silk, floss, polyester. The most important thing is that they do not shed, be slippery, but do not twist into knots in work. Usually, embroiderers prefer floss, since it meets all the requirements of this type of needlework, as it is created for it.
• Needles. Yes, there can be several identical needles in the work, so as not to pull out the thread every time there is a transition to another color. Needles should be of high quality - strong and straight, not too long, with a good, but not wide eye.
• hoop- special hoops between which the fabric is stretched (hooped). Depending on the size of the embroidery, the hoop is selected with a suitable diameter. After work, the base is processed and used for its intended purpose. Although there is a hoop that is suitable as a frame for an embroidered picture. They are textured, with a special lock with a patina - semi-antique. In them, medium-sized works look very impressive.
• Scissors- some with thin blades for thread, others are ordinary tailor's - for working with canvas.

foundation of the foundations

As an artist uses a canvas or sheet of paper, so an embroiderer uses fabric. And to make it convenient to work on it, it is hooped in a hoop. How to do this so that the counted cross embroidery is organized correctly? The principle of cross stitch is the uniformity of all elements, which is achieved with the help of canvas. Therefore, the base must be stretched evenly:

• the smaller hoop ring should be placed on a flat surface;
• expand the fabric on top of the ring, straighten it;
• cover with a second ring and fasten the clip so that the rings hold tight enough, but the fabric can be pulled through;
• supporting the ends of the fabric, align its weave so that it has the correct geometric shape, and all cells were square;
• tighten the rings to the end so that the fabric does not bend or slip.

You can embroider.

Finishing touches

The counting cross involves working with only one main element - a cross. But other elements help to give the work more grace. So, in simple pictures, you can use an embroidery tool that passes the contours of the depicted objects and their parts. Small details that you want to highlight, for example, leaf buds or flower buds, raisins on a cake are embroidered with knots, giving the work some volume. Cross-stitch is not very democratic, it rarely allows you to complement the work with other techniques so that the result is amazing. Most often, contour additions are used to give greater clarity.

How beautiful!

Anyone who evaluates the work done, sees only the result. And it will consist not only of the plot, but also of painstaking accuracy. If the work is done carelessly, then no matter how beautiful the scheme is, no one will praise it. Therefore, accuracy in the technique of cross-stitching is the basis of a quality result. And in order for the work to bring satisfaction, you need to know how to embroider with a counted cross according to the pattern, observing a few rules:

• Choose quality materials. If the threads in the process of work are shaggy, cling to knots, and then shed, then all the work will go down the drain. Needles should also be good - straight, so that it is convenient to work with them, with a narrow eye so as not to disturb the structure of the fabric.
• The fabric should be hooped into the hoop evenly, avoiding distortions.
• Knots in embroidery are not made! The tail of the thread is neatly hidden during operation.
• The most important thing is to accurately calculate the number of crosses in one section of the same color, the pattern depends on this.
• Absolutely all crosses should "look" in one direction. This is due not only to the rules of the counting cross, but also to the play of light on the finished work.
• The finished embroidery must be moistened and allowed to dry. Steam the embroidery from the wrong side without pressing the iron.

Counted cross stitch allows you to do both small pictures, single items or simple patterns, but it can also become the basis for a large-scale canvas - a whole plot picture. Schemes for such work, of course, are very different. If used finished circuit, then you should choose the threads in accordance with the specified ruler. If it is developed independently, then the colors are taken at will, a sense of harmony. For greater realism of the plot picture, one should not forget about halftones, because it is the shades that give liveliness and naturalness to the finished work.

Embroidery in the technique of a counted cross is a fascinating art that is accessible to people different ages. It develops and maintains mindfulness, the ability to see the perspective of one's work, fine motor skills hands, which is also good for brain activity. Well, there is no need to talk about the result of labor - high-quality embroidery will serve as a source of pride. Good luck!

Do you want to learn how to cross stitch? We will help! Let's figure out where to start and what materials to choose, what methods and styles of embroidery exist and which ones are most suitable for you. So, in order not to turn this soothing activity into real hardships with the wrong tools and the wrong technique, let's first get acquainted with the basics of this needlework art.

1. Materials and tools for work

Before you sign up as an embroiderer, you will need to stock up on basic tools and materials. The minimum set of items that every craftswoman should have includes:

• needles;
• a needle bed or a pillow for needles;
• hoop or machine;
• threads;
• thimble;
• scissors (large, small and medium);
• ruler.

Why so many? Believe me, everything will come in handy! Now about each point in more detail.

Needles

The needle bar is needed primarily in order not to lose one of the needles on the table, sofa or somewhere else. In addition, it is very convenient. As for the needles themselves, there will be much less lyrics here. The selection of needles is a rather complicated matter; Firstly, each type of fabric requires its own specific needle of the desired thickness and length. The thinner and airier the fabric itself on which you are going to work (cambric, voile, canvas or linen), the thinner the needle is needed. Accordingly, a thick needle is suitable for a rougher type of material, such as wool.

Dimensions of tapestry needles (in mm)

Best to use tapestry needles- a large eye will not fray the thread in the process, and a blunt end will not damage the warp itself. A set of quality needles will serve you more than one embroidery.

In order to prevent the fabric from shrinking under the pattern, craftswomen from time immemorial use the hoop in the process of embroidery. With this device, you can tightly fasten the fabric. Skilled embroiderers choose wooden hoops, as they hold the fabric more securely and do not spoil the material, unlike their plastic counterparts. Another tip: choose a hoop with a smooth and flat surface, because any roughness and unevenness can damage the fabric.

Threads

The choice of threads is a whole art, because the effect of the finished pattern depends on it. The most popular and common are these types (we advise you to choose from them, since they are easier to buy and easier to work with):

Muline- such threads are very easy to connect with each other to get the desired color. Each thread consists of 6 twisted fibers. This type of thread is the most popular in embroidery and is used in almost all ready-made kits. They don't tangle or lose color over time.

- you can combine this interesting material with cotton floss or woolen threads for a shiny, sparkling effect.

- made of very soft threads. An excellent choice for tapestry or satin stitch embroidery.

fine wool- such a thread can be used in combination with other materials, and separately. Such threads are indispensable in embroidery with wool on fabric.

Thimble

The thimble not only protects your fingers from punctures, but also helps to better push the needle through thick and unruly fabric. Before you buy it, you first need to try on the product on the middle finger - it should sit like a glove and not cause any discomfort. Only in this case, you can be sure that it will become a faithful assistant in embroidery, and feel free to buy it.

Scissors

Buy several types of scissors at once, which will help you out in different situations. For example:

• Small scissors will help to delicately cut a thin thread and remove unnecessary marks.
• Medium will be comfortable during fabric processing.
• Large ones will be indispensable in the cutting process.

Additional accessories

Of the additional tools, we also recommend stocking up for marking the canvas, and for threads. Markers or pencils are more convenient than traditional soaps or chalk, as they can be easily washed off when hand washing the product. In addition, they can be used on any type of fabric and with their help you can draw more accurate and elegant sketches.

A magnifier is needed in order not to strain your eyes while embroidering the smallest curls, and a thread organizer will allow you to distribute colors according to a natural gradient, building a clear palette. This will make it as easy as possible to choose the right shade, and you can easily find out which color to use in your product.

Ready set for beginners

Of course, you can try to pick up all the “ingredients” for beautiful and high-quality embroidery on your own. But still, this stage scares away many, and they stop being interested in this type of needlework. Therefore, we advise you to purchase already. Firstly, it is very convenient, since any such set already contains everything you need in the right amount. Secondly, you do not have to select each material and tool for a long time, which will save you a lot of time. Dedicate it better to studying patterns or the embroidery process itself.

2. Choice of canvas

Canvas is our basis for embroidery. It is produced from different materials- linen, cotton, hemp, acrylic, wool and even plastic. We advise you to choose a canvas from a material that is ideal for your idea.

• hemp fabric most often chosen because of its strength. You don't even have to use a hoop to embroider on it. This fabric is very dense and retains its shape for a very long time.
• Plastic- This is a new hit among craftswomen. Such a canvas can turn your product into anything, as it easily changes shape. Just cut out the shape you need - and the base is ready. Children especially like to embroider on plastic, as it is easy and fun.
• For those who want to add volume and texture to their embroidery, we recommend using wool canvas. But no matter how beautiful it looks ready product on such a basis, it is still not very convenient to embroider on wool because of the numerous protruding fluffy threads.
• Cotton is a true classic of the art of embroidery. And all because this material is very even and smooth. It is a pleasure to embroider with such material.
• It is difficult to work with wool, but still want a little volume? Then choose acrylic. Despite its unnatural origin, it is much easier to embroider on it than on wool, and besides, it is not as fluffy.
• Linen also popular with craftsmen. But if you decide to ennoble any piece of clothing with a beautiful ornament, then it is better to check how such a fabric behaves after washing it.

For beginners, we recommend choosing cotton canvas Aida. This brand is famous for its versatility. Everyone can choose for themselves the material with the desired cell size. This canvas is used by both beginners and already skilled embroiderers.

Canvas Aida is divided into cells, which greatly simplifies the process of cross stitching.

Another equally popular canvas is produced by the brand hardanger. Do you want to embroider in the technique of tapestry or satin stitch? Such material is the best basis. But, unfortunately, it will not suit you as a beginner. If this is your first time taking a needle and thread in hand, then it is better to start with canvas No. 8. It is actively used for teaching embroidery.

3. Step by step learning to cross stitch

First of all, you need to prepare your workplace. Make sure that you are comfortable embroidering. Most a good place for needlework - this is a soft, comfortable chair. You should also take care of the lighting, as your eyes can quickly get tired in low light. For such cases, use a table lamp, which will be your lifesaver in the evening, at night and during the day, in poor natural light. Lay out all the materials and tools in the way that suits you, and it is better to put the diagram in the most visible and illuminated place.

Working with fabric is the next step in the beginning of embroidery. Do not be afraid, it will take you only four steps - and you can start the main work.

1. Measure and cut as much fabric as you need for embroidery, as they say, "with a margin." To do this, leave about 7 - 10 cm allowances on each side to stretch the canvas on the hoop.
2. Then work the edges so that they do not bulge and do not bloom. Can be used clear nail polish or special glue.
3. Count the number of crosses on the diagram and on your canvas.
4. Time to lay out your base before embroidery. Measure out 10x10mm squares (use the crosses on the fabric as the unit of measurement. 10 crosses on each side of the square is 10x10mm). We draw the markings with a washable marker or soap.

Video how to mark the canvas:

Then you should decide which method you will embroider. Choose from the following:

• Traditional (cross stitch)- embroider one cross after another separately. Make sure that the working length of the thread is 25-30 cm, a maximum of 50 if the pattern is quite large. Make two stitches - and the cross is ready. To do this, move the needle from the upper right to the lower left corner of the cell. The second stitch goes from the top left corner to the bottom right.
• Danish embroidery method- first you close the row with only the first stitches (top right and bottom left or vice versa), and then return, closing the remaining halves of the crosses.
• Stitch skipping method- it is used when you need to skip a few cells on the tissue. To do this, the thread runs in a cross along the wrong side of the fabric.
• simple diagonal- do stitches diagonally. First you need to move from top to bottom, and then from bottom to top.

Video how to start embroidering:

Now let's take a look at the schema. It shows the required number of crosses and their location on the marking of the fabric. By the way, the schemes are both color and black and white. It is easier to work with colored ones, since you immediately see the desired color, but if the color scheme of the picture is diverse, then many cells will be highlighted with symbols or numbers corresponding to some color in the decoding.

Carefully read the decryption key of your particular scheme and especially pay attention to empty cells, which are most often not filled with anything. Working with the scheme is quite simple, because all the necessary data is written there.

Video how to work with the scheme:

4. Types of embroidery and technique

There is a huge variety of techniques and styles of embroidery. It remains to choose the one that suits you best:

• counted cross- Do you want to embroider the image on the diagram exactly the same? Then this type of embroidery will suit you. This method is used on fabrics with regular weaving and differs in the count of threads on the fabric.
• Another one simple technique- this is countless cross. Embroider everything that is highlighted in colors, clearly following the pattern.
• printed cross performed on a canvas with crosses already applied.
• Tapestry technique very reminiscent of a half-cross, but the wrong side should match with front side drawing.
• Smooth surface. To embellish your piece with this technique, simply transfer the design to the fabric and carefully fill in all the space within the design with straight stitches.

5. Advantages and features of ready-made kits

The main advantage of working with ready-made kits is that you do not need to spend a lot of time and effort searching for all the tools and materials. Just choose the set you like, and all the components (threads, needles, pattern) will already be there.

Sets are different, and you can choose according to the type of canvas and pattern. The most commonly available options are:

• The drawing is applied directly to the material and there is a diagram
• The drawing is not applied
• Canvas tinted and applied background
• Only the diagram is drawn
• The material has a water-soluble pattern.

Difficult? No, if you follow our advice:

• To begin with, it is worth choosing drawings with not large quantity colors, with predominant large details in the pattern. The more details, the more difficult it is to embroider, and a simple drawing will not take much time.
• Choose kits with Aida canvas for large size embroidery; No. 14 is suitable for any beginner.
• Don't throw away leftovers! Some materials from the kit may be useful in other needlework.

Embroidery is not difficult and even interesting if you embroider what you like and what you love. It is easy to learn this craft, and there are many benefits from it too. So use our tips, and soon you will move from a beginner to an embroidery master!

This is a method of embroidering a design on canvas using a needle and colored floss or other threads. It is not known exactly where cross stitching was first started. It is believed that cross-stitch appeared along with the appearance of the first stitch. It was first made by primitive people using stone needles while making clothes from animal skins. The following materials were used for cross-stitching: hemp, flax threads, animal veins, wool and cotton, widely used natural hair. Until now, cross-stitch is used to decorate homes, clothes, shoes. Over time, there has been an improvement in the art of decorating fabrics with the help of threads and needles. Today, embroidery can be realized not only manually, but also with the help of machines. Progress is also observed in the artistic design of embroidery. Increasingly, ornament and plot drawing are used.

In Russia cross-stitch was considered to be the occupation of close associates. They included representatives of the nobility and monks. For embroidery, expensive materials were used, such as pearls, gems, gold and silver threads, velvet, silk. Expensive embroidery adorned the clothes of members royal family, boyars and clergy. Only women embroidered in Russia. Girls from 5-6 years old began to accustom to this difficult craft. By the age of 12-13, the young lady had to independently embroider a dowry for herself. It included bedding, headwear, tablecloths. Before the wedding, all the works were shown in public. The richer the bride's attire was, the more she was valued.

Cross stitch kits.

Sets for thecross stitch- this is a set of devices necessary for embroidery, that is, what will be used in the process of work. It includes a canvas with a pattern, special threads of certain colors, a needle and instructions. The kits are suitable for both advanced and beginner needlewomen. The difference between simple embroidery is the presence in the set of up to 10 floss colors and drawing the pattern only in the middle of the canvas. Simple children's embroidery is one of these sets. Embroidery kits for advanced craftswomen include a variety of shades of floss threads, as well as embroidery techniques such as half-cross, cross, backstitch. Cross stitch kits distinguished by other criteria. For example, the quality of threads. In cheaper versions, synthetic floss may be found. The best choice be cotton or wool. Closer attention should be paid to this nuance, since the quality of the thread affects the result of the work done. The schemes in the sets are divided into color, black and white and color iconic. It will be easier for beginner needlewomen to work with a color iconic scheme, because details are better visible on it.

These are auxiliary drawings to speed up and simplify the needlework process. They, as mentioned above, are conditionally divided into several types: color patterns for cross stitch, black and white iconic patterns for embroidery, color iconic patterns.

In size, the schemes are large (30X40cm), medium (20X30cm), small (10X15cm). To understand how much you are interested in needlework, try to embroider a small simple embroidery pattern. If the process itself seems tedious, boring and mundane, then you should do something else, less monotonous.

Consider cross stitch patterns in more detail. There are several types of patterns: light patterns for embroidery with one element, medium simple patterns with a small plot and complex cross stitch patterns which include landscape, people and animals. The background in the case of using a complex scheme is completely filled with small details and elements. Cross stitch patterns are subdivided according to the amount of floss used. AT simple circuits, the number of floss reaches 10 colors, the average includes 10-20 colors, complex schemes use about 20 or more floss colors. When buying a scheme, pay attention to the drawing. It should not have too many halftones, otherwise you will have a hard time in the needlework process.

According to the density of the threads, embroidery patterns come with the same thread count for the entire embroidery, embroidery of the plot and background of the pattern with threads of different density of addition, and embroidery of individual elements in the pattern and the background of the pattern with different additions of floss. Kit manufacturers indicate how much to fold floss when embroidering certain details. Work when embroidering in several threads seems more voluminous, when embroidering in one thread, vice versa. If there is an alternation of embroidery styles, then the pattern, as it were, plays with highlights, constantly shimmering.

By number of stitches cross stitch patterns are divided into several types of stitches, a couple of types of stitch and one type of stitch. For beginners, it is better to use a pattern with one or a couple of types of stitches. Otherwise, interest in work is lost.

We list the main types of embroidery: three-dimensional embroidery, beadwork, satin stitch embroidery, ribbon embroidery, cross-stitch. Most simple views embroideries that can be recommended for beginner needlewomen are volumetric embroidery, beadwork and cross-stitch. Often there is a combination of different types of embroidery. For example, beadwork and cross-stitch.

The most important thing is to start the embroidery process! It may seem very exciting, entertaining and interesting to you. Try to acquire the necessary skills for the job. If something is not clear, you can always read the forum on the Internet or find the article you need.

Greetings to everyone in my blog "All about embroidery"! Often girls who just want to learn how to embroider turn to me, they say, tell me how to do it. Therefore, today I am publishing basic tips for beginners to embroider with a cross - so to speak, a hot twenty. Because in fact, there can be a lot of these tips - my entire blog talks about what and what news is in. 😉 But today my article is dedicated to those who have never embroidered at all, but want to try their hand at this relaxing kind of creativity.

Cross-stitch for those who have not yet had time to get acquainted with it should not seem like something very difficult. I suggest studying these tips - despite the abundance of information below, I assure you - embroidering is not difficult! 🙂

Buy a ready-made embroidery kit instead of downloading a pattern. The fact is that the ready-made kit already has everything you need - canvas, threads, a pattern, a needle. And, or using from a magazine, you will have to independently calculate the required amount of floss and canvas, select a needle. This may turn you away from the process.

Don't take it right away big set with a lot of colors and different types of stitches.

First, than larger size embroidery, the higher the price of the finished set, and if you do not complete the process, it will be a pity for the money spent. Secondly, the result on a small job will be obtained faster, which will give motivation for the next embroidery exploits. Thirdly, you will be able to work out the correct execution of crosses, both on the face and on.

I do not advise beginners to take on sets with a dark canvas - this is quite a difficult job. About all the subtleties and tricks with, I previously told.

In embroidery kits, the canvas is quite dense due to the special composition, which gives it rigidity, but the edges of the canvas, as a rule, are not processed, therefore, so that the canvas does not crumble during embroidery, .

If you still decide to take a larger embroidery kit, purchase. With which you can draw the fabric into squares so that you don’t go astray while working on the diagram. The rules for working with markers are usually indicated on the packaging, and in my article I talked about different types markers and how to use them.

Traditionally, beginners are advised to start embroidery from the middle of the pattern. But really, start where you feel most comfortable.

I start every time new project from different places. 🙂 I can from the center, I can from the bottom left, I can from the top right...

Study carefully the scheme and the key. , I have already told in detail. Pay attention to what types of stitches are used, the number of threads to work with (that is, how many threads to embroider).

Try to monitor the quality of lighting while embroidering. If you do not embroider during the day, use various additional light sources, or floor lamps.

It has been experimentally established that, on average, the working length of the thread should be about 30 cm, but not longer than 50 .

If you use a floss of a shorter length, there will be too much consumption, but if you take it longer than 50 cm, the floss will get confused and “twisted”.

Correct cross stitch is when all the top stitches are done in one direction (either \ or /). To ensure that all the crosses are exactly the same, try to insert the needle strictly into the same holes on the canvas.

Before you start embroidering, read the instructions to understand how to “put” a cross. I also advise you to read about the technique, methods and. Remember that knots are not allowed in cross stitch (unless it is, of course).

If you are afraid of getting confused and losing your place on the diagram where you left off, you can use a text highlighter that can be used to mark already embroidered icons. This is especially true for black and white schemes, in which it is difficult to distinguish characters.

Why is a highlighter better? So that if you suddenly find an error in an already embroidered fragment, then you can read the characters and correct it. Some embroiderers in general original scheme cherish and make a photocopy of it, on which the sewn fragments are marked with a felt-tip pen or pen.

If you are using a hoop for the time when you are not embroidering, remove the canvas from them. Also, try not to over-tighten the fabric with the hoop.

The traces left by the hoop can damage already sewn crosses.

Remember that around the embroidered pattern, the free canvas should be at least 5-7 centimeters on each side. This is necessary in order to be able to properly straighten the fabric into the hoop and then fill it into a baguette.

Despite the fact that a needle with a blunt end is used for embroidery, still take care of the place where it is stored. Use a needle bar or .

Firstly, this way the needle will not be lost, and secondly, if you leave it in the canvas, you will get too large a hole, which will be too noticeable against the general background.

Try not to make long broaches on the wrong side, especially in those places where there are no crosses. Three reasons to avoid stretching:

1. high floss consumption;
2. broaches, as a rule, are very noticeable on the front side;
3. a far-stretched thread creates excessive tension in the fabric, which can lead to deformation of the entire work.

If you mixed up one or two crosses when embroidering the background, then you can not unpick the threads, starting to alter. Errors in minor fragments are not noticeable in the big picture. But if you mixed up colors or deviated from the scheme when creating a face or contour, you will definitely have to. What are the errors, you can in more detail.

As a rule, ready-made embroidery kits for beginners usually include light or white canvas. During the embroidery, the fabric gets dusty, sometimes it gets dirty, so after finishing the embroidery, do not forget to wash it . All rules for washing embroidery. After the embroidery is finished and washed, it needs to be properly ironed. I have not talked about this in detail yet, but I promise to improve in the future. 😉

Pay attention to the design of your chosen pattern. Often designers who develop a story forget about the whole. And as a result, not critical, but still unpleasant incidents are obtained ... The issue of “formatting the picture”, that is, creating the correct visual concept, I considered in detail in a separate article.

It is advisable to think about the design of the finished work even before starting embroidery. Will it be, or will it be, embroidered, or, or, or?

Actually, in my opinion, these are the main tips for beginners to embroider with a cross. After reviewing the information in this article and following the links I provided, you will have the bare minimum required to be armed and prepared for the process. Although, in all honesty, sometimes it’s more interesting to study everything in the process of work, making small mistakes (well, big ones too 😉), after all, they learn from mistakes!

I wish all cross-stitch lovers inspiration and easy, pleasant processes!