Cross Stitch Parking Method 101 for Beginners | Caterpillar Cross Stitch

In this week's video, learn the parking method for cross stitch! Save time and easily complete full coverage pieces. Discover our top parking method tips for your floss and thread as we demonstrate a beginner-friendly, step-by-step tutorial and help you gain confidence to stitch a pattern that requires use of this more advanced stitch.
If you're new to flosstube and cross stitch, or more experienced, you'll find plenty of stitching ideas and inspiration here!
NEW? Please SUBSCRIBE here so you don't miss out: www.youtube.co... Don't forget to hit the BELL!
Shop the Piece of Cake bakery theme cross stitch kit (coming soon) and other products here: www.caterpilla...
DreamBox - $100 off, Use Code - CATERPILLAR
SHOP DREAMBOX: www.createroom...
Download your FREE eBook of 8 digital cross stitch patterns when you join the VIP Stitch Club for free here: manage.kmail-l...
Leave me a COMMENT below - have you ever tried this method and what experience do you have that could help others?
I post NEW VIDEOS every Monday at 7pm London time.
------------------------------------------------------------------
S O C I A L M E D I A:
💚 FACEBOOK GROUP: / caterpillarxs
📸 INSTAGRAM: / caterpillarcrossstitch
💻 FACEBOOK: / caterpillarcrossstitch
📧 EMAIL: [e-mail]
Please SHARE this video with any friends or family who might find it interesting!
------------------------------------------------------------------
POPULAR VIDEOS:
✿ CROSS STITCH FOR BEGINNERS: • Cross Stitch Basics | ...
✿ HOW TO IRON CROSS STITCH: • How to Iron Your Finis...
✿ HOW TO WASH CROSS STITCH: • HOW TO WASH CROSS STIT...
ABOUT ME:
Thanks for visiting my channel, I hope you enjoyed the video! I founded Caterpillar Cross Stitch in 2015 when I tried desperately for months to find a modern baby sampler my mum could stitch for new baby Felicity that would fit in with her simple, contemporary nursery. I love cross stitch, running, baking fruit cakes, drinking gin, eating salted caramel ice cream and most crafts!
See you soon and happy stitching! Sally x

[@marilynmehit1666]

I've watched several videos on the parking method and they left me more confused and befuddled than ever. This is, by far, the best explanation and demonstration ever. You are soft spoken, calm, and methodical. I've learned so much from every one of your videos. Thank you so very much.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

You're very welcome!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Hi Marylin, Marie here - thank you so much for your kind words, I'm so grateful for your lovely comment. I am so glad that I could help. Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@alorablevins4529]

I completely agree! ❤

[@sleepycalico]

I've just discovered flosstube. I'm 73, I've cross stitched for decades, and I've never seen that way of tying off. Wow! So cool and tidy! Thank you! I had been snaking through multiple rows on the back.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

We're glad you found us! Thank you for watching!

[@Appellonia]

Ive been cross stitching for years but its amazing how even someone that's intermediate can learn from a beginner video! I never thought of just making DOTS for gridding my aida or linen....oh my gosh. You have just saved me HOURS OF WORK, not to mention the urge to cut up my linen or aida with a pair of scissors and or spontaneously light it on fire! 🤣THANK YOU SO MUCH !!💓 ❤🎉🎉

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

We're so pleased to hear this! Thank you for watching!

[@lindagribbin16]

This was a great video and I now understand how this method is done. I would have loved to see what the back looks like with all of the threads that had "traveled" across the back. I guess they were covered by the cross stitches, but I would have liked to have seen the back. I love your videos. Thanks so much for this one.

[@howelldien4965]

I started a large project (48,450 stitches) and I've been learning so many techniques. The back of my work is going to be a visual timeline of my learning process 😄

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

That's amazing! Something you can treasure as part of your process :)

[@amandasupak]

I've been stitching for over 10 years and this is the first video on parking method that I've ever seen that I actually understood 😂 thanks

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

So glad we could help!

[@theessentialherbalist4544]

This is the first time, in over 50 years of stitching, the parking method has been explained to me in such an easy to understand way. I get it now! I started my first HAED and have had many people try to explain it but I found it confusing. Having you explain the "why" behind doing things helped to make it clear - I'm also a very methodical thinker and your explanation was spot on. This is my first time watching one of your videos...I have subscribed and bookmarked this channel and look forward to learning more from you. Thank you so much for such a great tutorial!!!!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for watching and for your feedback! We're so pleased this tutorial helped!

[@patriciatreslove4449]

I had no idea about this method, thank you for sharing your talent.

[@Whiskyunicorn]

I started using this method after this video and it’s turning my nightmare project into a manageable, fun project! ❤

[@betz6507]

Thank you for this explaination. I work 100% in hand and only do huge full coverage. I use paper patterns and for each symbol I assigned a marker color that I mark with the color as I stitch it. I prop up my pattern so I can look at it as I work. I don't do the block approach. I work sections and do one color at a time. I start with colors that have the most coverage, then work my way through the colors. I don't think I could handle the parking method working in hand .. too many strands all over the place. When I "travel" I turn over my piece and weave the travelling through through other threads. If it's too long a distance, I start and stop the thread.

[@annebartells777]

Ive been cross stitching for over forty years. I never was taught how to stich. I learned by reading and stitching. What I find fascinating is I do these things naturally. Its cool to learn it has names. Thanks for posting. I'm always looking for ideas and tips on how to improve my skill

[@sherrystewart3347]

I have cross stitched for over 50 years on and off. I've seen the parking method shown on different examples of work but had absolutely no idea what it was called. I'm very happy to learn about the parking method and that my whole piece doesn't have to use the method. It's a real eye opener for me! I also am going to take the time to learn how to end a thread by pin stitching. Also another new term for me! I love to learn new ways of doing things and am very happy today. Thanks for such a great tutorial.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching Sherry, I am so happy it was helpful and I could share some new tips with you ☺️ Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@007sCatwoman]

I have stitched for 40 some yrars of my 52 yrs of life. I learned something new today when I stumbled upon thos video! What a wonderfully useful tool!!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

That's such great news!

[@cecribbs]

Cross stitch is simple, no need to follow any methods but your own. It’s a very relaxing hobby that helps if you have an anxiety disorder. I’ve been cross stitching since 1st introduced a 6th grade crafting class. I’ve completed dozens of patterns. The back of my work is a hot mess and I could care less. I stitch all my crosses in the same way, left to right, then right to left. Just buy a small kitand give it a go 🥰

[@kerripatterson7117]

I'm doing my first large full coverage piece after many, many years of cross stitching. I've always been mystified by the parking method but am so very glad that I have your tutorial. Thank you!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching Kerri - so happy you found it helpful ☺️ good luck with your first large full coverage, I hope you'll love it ☺️ Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@amberrodriguez5697]

I’m just now starting to learn and this makes so much more sense to me. I’m so glad I came across this video!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

We're happy to hear this has helped! Good luck!

[@OliviaAlexandra27]

I have no words!! No, I’m kidding, I have a ton. Lol. I am pretty new to cross stitch, I’ve done hand embroidery for years but new to X stitching. I have watched many videos on parking as I really wanted to love it and I always left the videos with more questions and just not getting the entire picture! This was FANTASTIC! I am so grateful for this video! Thank you, thank you, thank you!! I can not wait to try it!!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

That is awesome!

[@MelissaVercoe-iv2rl]

I am just beginning to embark on a full coverage piece and this video was so helpful. I found the camera situated close to the stitching to be perfect, and your voice and explanations were so relaxing and easy to follow. Very very enjoyable! Thank you!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you! Pleased to hear this was helpful!

[@deniseeisele8403]

This was super. I hate constantly turning over my work to end threads and start threads. Thanks.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thanks for watching!

[@suerussell2590]

Thank you for explaining this so well, I have watched lots of videos and couldn't get to grips with the parking method, I will now give it a go

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Great to hear!

[@karenjones4982]

Another wonderful tutorial Marie! I thought I understood the parking method, but your tips have really helped solidified that knowledge. I was particularly happy at the end to hear you mention you can just do the parking method for certain areas instead of the whole piece, as that is where I can see particular value in my own stitching!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words Karen 💕 so glad you found it helpful 😊 Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@melissabunn7453]

I am interested in starting to crosstitch...you are a wonderful teacher and have a lovely voice.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for watching and for your kind words :)

[@marylou5209]

Thank you for video. I am only a couple years into cross stitch and this is the first time I have seen it explained

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching - so glad it was helpful! ☺️ Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@lindaekpo3991]

I've learned so much from this one video. Your explanation is clear and precise. There is one thing though that I would have liked seeing and that is the back of the work to see what that looks like compared to always finishing the threads.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Great suggestion!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Hi Linda, Marie here. We'll be posting a photo of the back of the project tomorrow in the Community tab section on our channel. Feel free to check back in if you're interested 😊 so glad you enjoyed the video x Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@KyrieCoultas-rx6sg]

I'm just starting my first large full coverage project. I would pull it out and just stare at it because I wasn't sure what would be the best way to start. Your tutorial is an absolute game changer for me. The clarity of your explanation made me feel like I can do it without feeling overwhelmed. Thank you so much 😃 happy stitching!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching Kyrie, so glad it was helpful ☺️ First full coverage is always intimidating but once you find your rhythm, you'll love it! Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@Cristallynx]

I’ve yet to try the parking method, but I’ve been watching several demonstration videos of the technique and been quite intimidated by them … until this one of yours! Your demonstration and explanation of the technique is so well done and relatable! Well done, and thank you for this!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for the feedback, we're pleased to hear that this has helped :)

[@ninjacat1ify]

Such a clear explanation….I had never heard of this method at all……you have encouraged me to take up cross stitching again! Thank you so much🙂

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

That is great news! Happy stitching :)

[@aimeeweaver8364]

Thank you! I’m starting my first huge full-coverage project, and this video is super helpful for understanding how to use the parking method.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

You are so welcome!

[@ein1985]

Thanks Marie! This was an excellent video, very informative. You have a lovely voice and it’s very soothing to listen to during your demonstrations.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words 💕 so glad you found it helpful 😊 Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@MimiSew-Sew]

I have been cross stitching for many years. I mark the corners on the grid, but never thought of parking my threads. I will definitely try it when I stitch tonight! Thanks for the tips.

[@terichambliss4154]

I'm doing a very small piece where the angel is full coverage. I learned so much from this video. Thanks for sharing.

[@beckyacosta2090]

Very good video! As another stitcher mentioned, I want to order this pattern and give parking a try! Thank you!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

You are so welcome! You can get the "Piece of Cake" patter or full kit here : www.caterpillarcrossstitch.com/products/piece-of-cake-bakery-cross-stitch-kit-or-pattern

[@beckyacosta2090]

@@CaterpillarCrossStitch It looks like you have a few complete coverage kits; Book Shop, Florist, Toy Shop. Do you sell the stands they are displayed on? And, is there a Tutorial for finishing the back of the hoop for display? Thank you so much!

[@TheBibliophilePuzzler]

I learned methods from a Korean KZbin channel without the benefit of explanations in English. Just watched several of her videos and began imitating her style. This video here has clarified so much! Thank you! ❤

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for watching!

[@molliemcmaker]

Thank you for this video, this is the first video where I actually understand the parking method, the others I watched I just didn’t get it. ❤️❤️

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching, so glad it was helpful 😊 Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@user-tv5rn8yi6v]

I’ve done small cross stitch projects in the past but did a lot more embroidery over the years. I’m about to embark on a project involving 4 seasons. I can’t wait to try the parking method you have shown! You are an amazing instructor!!!

[@gabi_jay93]

I'm a first time cross stitcher 😊, and your very first description of "cross country" stitching is what I did. This video is very helpful for first timers like myself. Thank you ma'am!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

So pleased you found this helpful :)

[@debsmith9332]

So glad I found your video on parking. I’ve kitted up my first full coverage piece, but didn’t fully understand parking. Also, I’ve watched others deal with confetti stitches (which I’d never heard of til a couple months ago), but couldn’t grasp the pin stitches. Thank you for showing the pin stitch in this video. And thanks for briefly explaining the various methods to tackle full coverage pieces. Sooo much seems to have changed from 45 years ago!☺ I’ve learned so much in a short amount of time. I’ve subscribed and will be watching more of your videos. Many thanks!!

[@adayl8frnd571]

Thank you very much for your clear instructions!

[@snowbirdgirl10]

The best tutorial I’ve watched on the parking method. You are a very talented communicator!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for your lovely feedback

[@LynnStarofDestinyKreations]

I always learn more methods and names. I used the parking method on my own self taught, but never worked a 10x10 before. I am currently working on my largest pattern ever. This will helps so much. I def use the Danish stitching and I guess some cross country. Lolz. I never knew they had names. I will try this complete method. I have 8 more pages to do. Tysm for sharing!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thanks for watching!

[@beckyacosta2090]

What is Dutch stitching? 😊

[@beckyacosta2090]

Oops, sorry! I mis-read. I know what the Danish Method is. 😋

[@AlwaysEatBagels]

This video is REALLY REALLY HELPFUL to learn how to do a parking method. Thank you!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

You're very welcome!

[@emmajars58]

I’m doing my literal first piece ever and it’s massive (movie poster size). I have been feeling super inefficient because I’m a cross country stitcher too. This video is AMAZING!! Thank you!!!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for watching!

[@francesrivera3569]

Thank you, thank you, thank you! This short video will be a great resource to go back to when needed!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching Frances, glad it was helpful! 😊 Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@lizamendez41]

Getting back into cross stitch and loved how you explained the process so clearly and with great visual. Extremely helpful!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

We're pleased to hear this helped! Welcome back to the world of Cross Stitch!

[@themorrigansnest]

Thank you so much! I'm new at parking (have been stitching for a couple decades), so this was wonderful to see.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mariwhitmer5377]

FINALLY parking explained and I get it! Thank you. I think starting on a smaller full coverage would also help me too. I've got 2 larger full coverage that I'm stalled on. This really helps.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

So pleased to hear this tutorial was helpful!

[@Sara-vn2kz]

Wow. I just started watching cross stitch videos last night, though I've been stitching for 18 years. This year, I'm working on my first project that requires standing to display. It's that big. I essentially have been using the parking method, though I'd never heard of it before. It just seemed like the logical way to approach such a big piece.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Wow! That sounds like a huge project! Thank you for watching!

[@laurawilliams9098]

I have cross stitched for years and am just now hearing about the parking method and so much more. I am working on a project now that has a lot of color changes and have started over 3 times and taken floss out numerous times on those tries. This has led me to Pinterest and finding any help I could find. Your video is absolutely awesome! I can see what you're doing, your explanations are complete, and you are easy to listen to. I am going to watch some more of your videos before I try my project again, and I'm just sure things will go better. Thank you so much!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for such great feedback :)

[@anncampbell2521]

I learned a lot from this video. Thank you

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching - so glad you found it helpful ☺️ Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@marilynmckenzie2111]

Thank you for your great video!! I need to get back to my first med.full coverage piece and was doing cross country, but will try the parking method now. I had gridded my Aida, but also realized I was putting the blue dots on top of the 11th fabric stitch but can now see my error that the dots should be right in between 10&11th stitch. I also revisited the “ pin stitch” . Tks so much! Your video set up and quiet slower speaking voice was so helpful too! Greetings from Canada 👋🧑🏻‍🦰🇨🇦

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for watching!

[@minajones1635]

What a wonderful tutorial! You are articulate and detailed and I really appreciate the information. Thank you!!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for your feedback. We're glad to hear you have found this helpful.

[@valerieohora6648]

I've learned so much in this video. Thank you.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching Valerie - so glad it was helpful! ☺️ Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@lolapeterocks]

Ive done 2 pieces of cross stitch that are over 20 inches both lengths long, and for some reason I wish I could do this method, but my way of cross stitching is organised chaos! I feel like other people would see my mess of a project and have a heart attack but it somehow works for me 😂 You are very good at teaching and the way you speak is so clear!

[@nancyevans7609]

This was very informative. I had no idea what parking was and the different ways of approaching the stitching of a full coverage pattern. Thank you for this great video and the thorough explanation and tips it gave. I will be happier approaching a full coverage pattern after viewing this video😀

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for watching! Happy to hear that this has helped remove some fears around full coverage patterns!

[@nat_does_crochet]

Mind blown! I have been cross-stitching for years, but this will change the game for me. Will pick up my latest project again that I put to the side cause it was a little daunting. Thanks for the easy explanation!!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Wonderful!

[@lauriemyers3]

Huh…very interesting! It’s cool to see how different everyone stitches. I complete each stitch one at a time because I prefer hand-dyed threads and it looks weird if you don’t. I also LIKE the process of completing an “X”! I do not, however, like bulk in the back that pushes the stitches up in the front. This might be something I try!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Try it and let us know how you get on! :)

[@jannajacob219]

This is the first time I've heard about this method. I'm a self-taught crafter so there are techniques I'm lacking. I love this because it's logical all the way. I wish I had thought of it, lol.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for watching and good luck!

[@melissaphillips3912]

I've been cross stitching for many, many years, but never heard of this method before now. Wow! What a revelation. Your explanation is terrific. What kind of stand are you using. Could you make a video about that? Explaining some ways and tools to use. Thank you. Lovely stitches by the way.

[@MariaHlad]

I finally had some time to watch this! I started my first Mirabilia at the beginning of the year and have been wondering about this method. This was great! am going to try this on her.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Good luck :)

[@rosemaryeuresti7132]

Just coming back to cross stitching and have been watching a few tutorials. I have to admit I was a bit overwhelmed but you have captured my attention. I will try your method…I have already started a pattern before watching your tutorial…maybe I can put it to use on this project. If not I can always start a new pattern 😂. Thank you for your time and method. 🤞🏼🤞🏼

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for watching :)

[@kathy1896]

I really enjoyed watching this video and learned a lot - thank you! I am getting up my courage to start a full coverage piece!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

We're happy to hear this helped!

[@warmandpugly]

Fantastic tutorial for me as a beginner ❤ really helpful and easy to understand. Thank you 🙏🏼

[@cherimayer6617]

I loved this video, thank you for helping me understand this method.❤❤❤

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching, so happy it was helpful ☺️ Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@margaret5197]

This is so helpful. I was hesitant to try it but you’re so thorough, I will give it a try

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Let us know how you get on!

[@argheimrobb]

Thank you so much for these very clear explanations 👍 I fear I won't use this technique though, since I could only imagine the waste of thread behind the fabric 🫣 But if one day I need to remember, I will definitely go back to your video. Thank you!!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

You're very welcome!

[@mamabear090]

Thank you for this clear explanation!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jeannettegodwin4268]

Fantastic tutorial, I had no idea about the parking method and i could have used it on several projects. Thank you so much for your sharing. Hugs

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

You're very welcome! Glad to hear you found it helpful!

[@ishankastrand5344]

Thank you for explaining really well. ❤❤

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sharenmccrabb2512]

Thank you for this very informative video.

[@TheonaYates-qz6hr]

Thank you, this was very informative and I now understand what the parking method means.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching, so glad it was helpful ☺️ Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@kathyaschenbach8081]

Thank you! You did a very good job of explaining it. I really love how you grid your fabric. I love the dot idea! Thank you so much.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

You are so welcome!

[@ivonep8166]

Very well explained, thank you Marie your videos are brilliant ❤

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching Ivone, so glad you found it helpful! ☺️ Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@yvette366]

I’ve been cross stitching for over 25 years off and on. This was the first time (and first video) I’ve heard of parking method. Thank you for explaining it so clearly. What frame are you using? Thank you!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching Yvette, I'm honoured I could teach such a seasoned stitcher something new! I am using a no-brand stand from Amazon, it's handy for tutorials but can get a bit fiddly. If you like stitching when sitting by the table, it could be a good stand for you (or to take with to retreats). Here's the link if you'd like to check it out: amzn.to/3ZLLA8y Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@yvette366]

Thank you!

[@lisaboban]

Thank you! This is the first tutorial I've seen with an explanation of why you would use the parking method. Since I don't do full coverage pieces, it never made any sense to me at all!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thanks so much for watching Lisa, glad it helped! Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@susanmiller2370]

This is a very helpful tutorial. I especially appreciated the cadence of your voice.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@katesansom3841]

This was SO helpful! I wanted to try the parking method for once and this video answered this and other questions I had in the world of cross stitching (like why people care about grids).

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

You're so welcome! We're glad to hear this was helpful

[@tammywisecup774]

Thank you so much for this amazing tutorial, it helped me to understand this method completely.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Great to hear!

[@CadenzaVvi]

I've started cross stitching 6 months ago. To get the hang of things, try a few different techniques and get some experience before delving into big pieces, I decided to do a series of bookmarks. First one was fully counted, no gridding, quite simple (5 elements; pixel art). Second, I bought heat erasable markers (after, I learnt it reappears in the cold, which is bad in this case, so I put them aside for now). Then I tried gridding with floss, being very aware of the potential issue, so I was very careful. Then sulky sliver. Then water soluble pen. Now, I'm testing parking over this. I've asked for some advice around, because I see some pros and cons. I like the fact that I can stitch in a less crowded aida. I hate stitching when all the stitches around are done. I find it difficult to find the hole. Parking alleviate that. But always managing my threads, pulling them on the side, rolling them under my needle minder, ... It's tedious. Also the fact that the thread gets in the way when doing other stitches is annoying as well. For that second point, I've been suggested to switch my way of approaching my work. I'm going left to right, up to down, parking in the lower left corner. For my next work, I will try going right to left, up to down, parking in the lower left corner. This way, the thread shouldn't be in the way. As for the first problem, I realize watching your video that my main problem is that my work is too small. Parking on a bookmark leaves very little room to bring the thread away, so yes, I have to roll it and roll it and roll it under my needle minder and it takes quite some time. And also, the thread can mix a bit together. I just bought my first bigger pattern (110 stitches diameter circle pattern), so I'm curious to test it when I'll get there! (I still have a week or so to finish my bookmark. I'm really excited for this other project, so I'm impatient to finish my bookmark ahah. Just one week. I can do it!).

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thanks for sharing your journey so far!

[@GeeBee111]

I guess I've been doing this for a long time, and never knew it had a name!!! I'm a senior and have a hard time seeing the patterns, especially when they have lots of colors. Even with a magnifying glass, it's difficult. Now, I take a picture of the pattern on my phone and then I can enlarge the part I'm working on... works great! I don't have a copy machine that will enlarge, but that is also a great option. Thanks for this very good tutorial! (*^*)

[@debbiescrafts76]

Never heard of this method thank you for a great video explaining. Will definitely be trying it ❤

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Glad it was helpful!

[@hooksbookspodcast]

This video was SO helpful! I’m looking to get back into cross stitching and there are so many new terms I have no clue about! I also really want to try and confetti HAED piece but seemed daunting to change colors every other stitch!! Thank you for the wonderful explanation!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for watching! We're so pleased you found the video helpful :)

[@shelbyhurd]

It's so smart that you fold your pattern to the exact column you're working on. That will help me keep my place more easily when I'm doing normal stitching. May I ask what kind of thread you're using? It looks high quality!

[@lynmcmahill8238]

I would love to what the back of the project looks like doing this method. Also have never seen anyone thread the needle like you do n would love to see how you do that. Thank you

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Noted!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Hi Lyn, Marie here. We'll be posting a photo of the back of the project tomorrow in the Community tab section on our channel. Feel free to check back in if you're interested 😊 Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@joannesalerno1384]

Great video, you explained it wonderfully. I can wait to try it now, I would travel my threads. Thank you

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for watching! :)

[@jadziaschillzone]

I"ve literally been doing a small christmas tree cross stitch for (this is the) 2 years. i need these videos lmfao

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

You can do it!

[@debbieoconnor7054]

G'day I just found your channel. I have always wondered how you do the parking method, it looked very complicated to me. This video is great you explain and show us so clearly. On my next full coverage I will consider trying it. Thanks again look forward to seeing your other videos. Watching from New Zealand

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for watching, happy stitching!

[@nerllybird]

This is so helpful and well explained. Thank you!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you for watching!

[@robinhughes2198]

Fantastic instructions! I’m starting my first full coverage in Oct. Thank you!

[@camechoiam]

I am still a cross country girl. Parking method makes me crazy. My brain just doesn't enjoy this style. Cross Stitch is my relaxation time-and Parking makes me so anxious! It uses more thread and it makes the back lumpy and messy! Yicks! I do large Full Coverage all the time and never use Parking. So, thank you for the video, but parking is not "an essential skill" for Full Coverage. 😁

[@SoCalJS]

I couldn't do it either, having to constantly pay attention to all the threads 'parked.' It's very interesting because she uses the word 'methodically' very often and perhaps that might be the difference between the styles? I think I approach cross-stitch in general more 'naturally' and 'relaxed' versus so 'grid-like.' As such, the cross country method has always been my natural go-to without even thinking about it. I do find it fascinating that people approach cross-stitch in different ways and appreciate her very clear cut and thorough explanations. She's a very good teacher =)

[@kasiaa9165]

This method might help me with my cross stitch as I quite often make mistakes as I’ve miscounted stitches because they’re too far away. Doing blocks like this eliminates that problem.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

That's great to hear!

[@carrotcakestitcher]

Thanks for this clear, easy to follow video Marie 💕💖 The parking method finally makes sense to me! I'm going to try it on my Piece of Cake pattern and will see how I get on. Thanks as always for fantastic content on this channel. Happy Easter to all the CCS team 🐣🐇😘

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words Alice, glad it was helpful 😊 Hope you'll enjoy working on your first parking method piece ☺️ Happy stitching 🌸 Marie

[@MariaMartinez-jb3zn]

I have such a small piece to do and the counted cross stitch was beyond me but I like your explanation of this method to save time…of course it helps to have table clamps or lap stand to hold your work. It’s nice to not have to keep turning to the back to end threads. Do you have all threads on a needle? Wow! Thank you for encouraging us to find our way with your interpretation of the parking method. It seems simpler already! 🙏🏽🙋🏻‍♀️👍🏽 Mia

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@amandahaynes2194]

THis was a wonderful explanation and video, thank you so much

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

You're very welcome!

[@isaae194]

Wow superb video!❤️ I'm new to cross stitching and I have a (big) projet right now that I'll be able to use this technique to save time. Thank you so much for passing on your knowledge is such an easy way to understand, even for beginner in this craft.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

So glad we could help! Enjoy your big project :)

[@lisaverizzi6272]

Thanks, I’ve always wondered how this worked.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Glad to help!

[@MsGabmc]

This is a really helpful explanation ... thanks ... I have just started my first coverage piece with lots and lots of similar colours and this method would be perfect.

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thank you so much for watching, so glad you found it helpful 😊 Happy stitching and good luck with your first full coverage 🌸 Marie

[@terid3569]

New subscriber I love this

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Thanks for being here! We hope you enjoy the rest of the videos!

[@alward599]

Fabulous explanation!

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Glad it was helpful!

[@wendycash54]

Very clear explanation of parking, however I have very similar colored threads and I would not know which was which, so I don't feel I can do this.

[@bethe9072]

Thank you so much for such a great video. Every question I had along the way was eventually answered, and I appreciate your precise explanations! I have just started my first full coverage project, and am excited to give this a try :)

[@CaterpillarCrossStitch]

Good luck!