Cross Stitch Tutorial for Beginners #2 - Stitching a Cross Stitch

This video is about how to start cross stitching a project, and how to form the x of the cross stitch. This is a cross stitch tutorial for beginners, and it will get you started on your journey to cross stitch happiness in no time at all!
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[@joycebanks7728]

Thank you for doing this. I used to cross stitch years ago. Unfortunately life got busy and I didn't have time to continue. When I wanted to start again, the person who helped me when I first started was no longer around. So I am very thankful you have videos on here to help me get started again. Just like riding a bike right?

[@peacockandfig]

Haha yes exactly Joyce, when I started stitching again I had to relearn everything, I hadn't stitched since I was a teenager and I was self taught. It's funny how quickly you pick things back up again. 🙂

[@우유-f3v]

These types of hobbies can be stressful but also stress relieving HAHAHA

[@peacockandfig]

Haha very true 🙂

[@yodelissosa7791]

Yup. Just learned that from Embroidery. Lol 😅😅🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️💕💕

[@myrahhhhhhhhhh]

Agreed😆

[@sameeraansar1343]

Agree...in phase of stress now😁

[@soggyfriesz]

Ah, new hobby during quarantine. Update 5 days later: i quit. The threads r difficult to be put in the needle, my fingers are in pain, SO TIRED OF IT (but i do managed to finish a simple mini design tho)

[@peacockandfig]

Ahaha right? Come for the pandemic, stay for the stabby relaxation... 🙂

[@normanfgrockwell950]

Agree ! This is pure ART. i wish im good at drawing too so i could make it better at lest. But im not :

[@YS-eu4ne]

Same. Today is only my 1st day of Self Isolation but I already feel super bored😂

[@mintyx6795]

Sameeee! beginner :(

[@thekidswallace]

Absolutely 😂

[@CassieSmart365]

Just learning to cross stitch..... I learned how to crochet MANY THINGS from KZbin. Now I’m interested to learn how to cross stitch. I’ve ALWAYS been amazed by it!

[@peacockandfig]

Haha yeah if you can crochet, I think you'll find cross stitch really easy, there's basically only two main stitches (cross stitch and backstitch), and a few variations on those. And French knots are sometimes used too. 🙂

[@CassieSmart365]

How about embroidery..... I want to do a picture on a large piece of fabric of an umbrella cockatoo..... with its crest up. I wish I could share the picture! I can also free hand draw..... do you think free hand drawing the picture on the fabric would be the best way to go?

[@katriona]

haha, i am literally digging a knot out as i'm listening to this :-)

[@peacockandfig]

Ahahhaa that's hilarious, of course you are. 😂 That's one thing about cross stitch, those little suckers are going to show up every now and then just for "entertainment." 🙂

[@Zarrah711]

Thanks for doing these tutorials. Been wanting to do something for my son's room and cross stitching is wonderful for decorations. This has been a big help!

[@peacockandfig]

Haha you're very welcome Zarrah! Cross stitch is a great hobby, you can do so much with it. Happy stitching! :)

[@isabeloliveira3237]

Tanks for teaching the right way lots people teach the wrong way and it's no fair for people to learning the wrong way I'm very happy

[@peacockandfig]

You are very welcome Isabel! 🙂

[@flamingbridges1649]

I love cross stitching but I have a habit of starting and then never finishing them

[@peacockandfig]

You might be choosing projects that are too big, try with smaller ones. Or set yourself a limit, and work on one for a while, then the next, then the next, then back to the first. It's normal to have several WIPs at once, you might just need to come up with a way to make sure that eventually you do finish them. 🙂

[@yodelissosa7791]

@@peacockandfig Thanks for This Advice!! I've also struggled with this. I started with Embroidery recently & I just (literally), just opened up a small cross stitch kit. Gonna see how it ends up. I'll try and go back and finish my other projects as well!! It's even harder when you're a Perfectionist 😅😅💕💕

[@JESUSISLORDforevermore888]

You should choose SMALLER PROJECTS

[@5877user]

Very generous of you to share all this info for beginners. With the big box stores barely having cross stitching stuff in only one aisle flosstube is keeping this craft alive.

[@peacockandfig]

Awww thanks so much for that, that made my day. :) I really like cross stitch as it's so accessible to anyone. I like how pattern designers have had to get more creative to keep up with changing tastes -- it's not as great for shops that don't know what to stock, but if you can find a good local needlework shop they are so knowledgeable. That's why I'm doing this, many people don't have a LNS near them so I want as many people to learn stitching as possible. It's so easy to pick up, it's such a relaxing hobby, and it has so many health benefits too! :)

[@Jonesfamily3]

Thanks so much! I've been interested in this for awhile, but could never find any good tutorials, but yours are perfect! You're a great teacher and are very thorough without being long winded. I can't wait to get started in this.

[@peacockandfig]

Awww thanks so much Pamela! There are a couple of others in the beginner's playlist as well, including this one showing you how to read a pattern - kzbin.info/www/bejne/eGXCeGdmiN6dbJo. That one also has a free mini-pattern to practice with, just go to the blog post that's listed in the video description. It's such a relaxing hobby, and it is actually really simple once you know what to do! Once you get the hang of it I have other freebie patterns in my shop as well, they're at the bottom of the main shop page. Happy stitching, and let me know if you have any other questions! :) Dana

[@trinah1148]

Thank you. I'm returning to cross stitch. Last stitched in the 1980s. This is a great refresher. 🌻

[@annabellaknavel7998]

I started cross-stitching a little while ago, I don’t know much but I want to learn a lot more!

[@peacockandfig]

Awesome, have fun learning Annabella! 🙂

[@viv4843]

Thanks for such a great video. I purchased my first beginner kit and this has really helped me understand.

[@peacockandfig]

Awesome, I'm glad it helped Viv! Happy stitching! 🙂

[@SallyKing-ns3uu]

I love It ❤❤cool when you get a little bit more of it and you have 🎉🎉🎉

[@peacockandfig]

Glad you enjoyed it Sally 😊

[@nancyann4309]

Thank you. I sew, crochet and do crewel but felt I couldn't do cross stitch. This video really helps. Thanks

[@peacockandfig]

You're very welcome Nancy Ann, glad it helped! :)

[@margaretlyons2600]

great but where do I start the next row

[@breedocx]

This is a great tutorial! We have a project in school where we have to do the three stitches; running stitch, back stitch and cross stitch! I'm ♡♡

[@peacockandfig]

Awesome, that sounds like a great class! And Bree is my middle name, how funny is that. 🙂

[@xx_madison2.0_xx75]

omg same! i have to do running stitch, cross stitch and blanket stitch

[@akiiiio.o]

This is our project at school it’s really complicated to me to understand but when i watched this tutorial i already knew how to cross stitch thanks!

[@peacockandfig]

Glad it helped! I hope your project goes well! 🙂

[@puffyjo]

i thank you for the refresher , I am not new to cross stitch but haven't touched it in years . I could not remember which to go , now I know why my work was looking a little weird . lol

[@peacockandfig]

Haha I'm glad it helped! I'm sure your work isn't weird. "Unique," maybe, but I'm sure it's not weird. 😂

[@tsuki_simp1150]

Thank u for your video. It helps me for my sewing project. Stay safe in quarinetine!!

[@peacockandfig]

You are so welcome! 🙂

[@pepethephrog1117]

No cap, you taught it better than our teacher.

[@peacockandfig]

Haha awesome, glad to help! :)

[@giselle5563]

Thank you so much for this video now I’ll definitely be able to make my sister the gift I wanted to!

[@peacockandfig]

Awesome, I'm glad it helped Kim! 🙂

[@adobocom873]

Thank you for the great vedio... During quarantine I have a new cross-stitch design...

[@peacockandfig]

Sounds great! 🙂

[@shawn1320]

Our Art teacher asking us to stitch, this video really helps me 👍

[@peacockandfig]

Awesome, glad it helped Shawn! If you want to see something neat, a friend of mine makes really cool collages using printed paper, gel prints of her own, drawing, and then overstitches the paper on some of them, so she's combining a lot of different medias which is really neat. One of her collages actually was on the cover of the Uppercase Magazine this past April. 🙂 Here's her Instagram -- instagram.com/lucieduclos/

[@Jessica-YT1]

Tysm teacher me how to do it and now I’m a good at it

[@peacockandfig]

Awesome, glad to hear it! 😊

[@eironasejun8565]

Gonna try this again after 15yrs

[@peacockandfig]

Good luck, happy stitching! 😊

[@nancycordeiro5760]

Thank you so much you are golden and you helped me and my family so much

[@peacockandfig]

You are so welcome Nancy! 🙂

[@jasaniaa]

Hi this really helped me I’m in grade5 and we’re doing this at school ky teacher showed the video to us thx

[@peacockandfig]

Awww I'm so glad you found it helpful Jasania! Happy stitching! 🙂

[@AReallySpookyPybro]

I needed this for my school project, Very helpful! I thank you very much!

[@peacockandfig]

You're very welcome! :)

[@hello._tina145]

Me aswell

[@taespacito8335]

Hi thank you so much for teaching me this I’m grade 4 and I’m learning this thank you so much for teaching us

[@peacockandfig]

You are so welcome! Happy stitching! 🙂

[@elenaantoniadou7059]

Thank you so much so glad I found you, have just started cross stitch, your voice is amazingly clear and so are your videos. So happy!

[@peacockandfig]

Awesome, so glad they're helping Elena! :)

[@samrob167]

I’ve been cross stitching for 20 years and I still do the knot 🤷‍♀️

[@peacockandfig]

Haha yep, some stitchers get soooo bent out of shape if you tell them you use knots, but as long as it's not creating a giant lump on the back and you know that very occasionally your needle might get caught on a knot, who cares. Life is too short, stitching is meant to be fun. 🙂

[@samrob167]

Peacock & Fig exactly! And my stitching is so good it looks the same on the back as it does on the front. Knots are perfectly 👌 😂

[@pearkore6821]

Ohhhh this makes so much more sense that what I was doing

[@peacockandfig]

Ahaha awesome, glad it helped Parker! 🙂

[@rowenaflores7442]

I Loved cross stitching and framing for 1996 until now this also my business until now I'm very interested happy to watch this video

[@peacockandfig]

Wonderful, glad you enjoyed it Rowena! 🙂

[@clarisalopez1579]

I was watching a video were a lady did a cross stitch but instead of doing a full cross stitch she did a half stitch for a full project can you do a half stitch for the hole project and also can you do it on a printed canvas

[@peacockandfig]

That's called a half cross stitch or tent stitch, it's usually done in tapestry and needlepoint (with the painted canvases). But that's quite different than cross stitch, the fabric is different. You can do tent stitch for cross stitch, but it usually won't look right as the design is meant to be stitched with "square" X stitches, not angled / stitches only. Plus you'll need a lot more floss, your coverage won't be enough if you only do half of the cross for a normal cross stitch project. Some projects do have half crosses, but that's indicated in the pattern, because the look is quite different than full crosses. 😊

[@chethmamapatuna4533]

I learn how to do my cross stitch properly thanks

[@peacockandfig]

You’re welcome! 😊

[@Joyce-ff7ms]

My parents are tailors and I found it really weird it takes me 22 years to realize that I have a passion for tailoring as well as knitting and cross stitching as well 😂😂 well better late than never

[@peacockandfig]

Ahahahah that's hilarious, at least you've figured it out now! 😂❤

[@Joyce-ff7ms]

@@peacockandfig I know right, cuz they never made me to do anything to help with the family business and they should have had haha

[@peacockandfig]

Aahahahahahaha 😂

[@maxyy9874]

i remember doing this in 5th grade HAHAHA. it was really fun so i decided to do it again this quarantine

[@peacockandfig]

Haha awesome! Come for the quarantine, stay for the stitchy relaxation... 😂🙂

[@wilcommaster]

very very nice frame work❤❤❤

[@peacockandfig]

Thanks a lot 😊

[@thebasecadet4474]

My first 3 projects were super small and were a pusheen kit. I was completing each X each stitch, I didn't go //// I went XXXX because the kit never explained (or I totally misread) this technique ! Lol I feel like this may be easier

[@peacockandfig]

Both methods are accurate, I have a whole separate tutorial on that (XXX = English method, /// \\\ = Danish method). 😊 Glad you found a technique that works for you! 😊

[@thebasecadet4474]

@Peacock & Fig OHH thank you. I'm still learning so much! Appreciate this comment a lot!

[@peacockandfig]

You can dooooo it 😁

[@damianadiwidodo8adiwidodo884]

So easy for me make crosstich,but difficult make line one yarn ...or back Stitch and Knot stich

[@peacockandfig]

Sorry Damian I'm not sure what you mean by "one yarn," and I do have separate tutorials for backstitch and French knots and Colonial knots. 😊

[@aylxron475]

hey there! may i ask what fabric/cloth you use to stitch? thanks a lot!

[@peacockandfig]

Hi there! I usually use 14 count Aida in most of my tutorials, unless I'm specifically using another fabric like linen or evenweave for a special demonstration. You can tell it's Aida, it's very blocky with very visible holes in the fabric. 😊

[@aylxron475]

@@peacockandfig Thanks a lot! I really need this video for my project! Thanks again!😊😊

[@peacockandfig]

Welcome! 😊

[@Jnt2252]

How can I get the X to look exactly the same size? Some look smaller than others on mine. I usually use an 11 cnt cloth. 3 skiens. Of floss.

[@peacockandfig]

Do you mean 3 strands? 3 skeins would be a lot. 😊And the stitches shouldn't be any different size at all, unless something is wrong with your fabric, or your tension is reallllllly tight on some and loose on others (which shouldn't happen if you stitch in a hoop or stitching frame). That's the point of the fabric, to keep your stitches the same size, 11 count means 11 stitches to the inch (vertically and horizontally). If your fabric looks ok, then your tension as you're stitching might need work, and that's just practice and really trying to keep your stitches just tight enough the X is formed, but not so tight the fabric starts to buckle. Hope that helps! 😊

[@Jnt2252]

@@peacockandfig yes 3 strands for 11count. Thank u for the advice. I will practice the tension in the floss.

[@stitchlife9104]

This video and a few more of yours on cross stitch have honestly given me so much more confidence to start cross stitching. I usually knit and make felt plushies, but I might have a new hobby to add to those now :)

[@peacockandfig]

Awesome, I'm so glad to hear it Paige! If you can count to ten and thread a needle you can cross stitch, it's one of the simplest needlecrafts out there. Have fun with your new hobby! 🙂

[@megastitches]

How is your set up to record stitch with me or closeup videos?

[@peacockandfig]

I just had my phone on a small stand right in front of my hands, that's it. 😊

[@susananderson4428]

I think I’d prefer to make each complete each X before moving to next stitch maybe because this is my first attempt at this

[@peacockandfig]

Do whatever is easiest for you Susan! :) You can mix them up once you feel more comfortable, or just always use that method (called the English method, of doing each stitch fully before moving onto the next, I have another tutorial on that actually). Just do what works for you, that's the only real "rule" in cross stitch. :)

[@Ash223]

Thanks this video really helped me learn to cross stitch :) 😁

[@peacockandfig]

You're very welcome! 🙂

[@bxgal347]

New subby!! Want to get back into learning g cross stitching

[@peacockandfig]

Awesome, enjoy! 😁

[@FC360D]

Do you need one of those circle tool things? I just got a cross stitch from Amazon and the instructions are virtually non existent but I finally figured out where to start from but I don't have 1 of those circular tools so was wondering do I need one? Also it's interesting seeing several half cross done at a time then the second half done after, I've never seen it done that way before.

[@peacockandfig]

You mean an embroidery hoop? Technically no, but if you're a beginner it helps hold the fabric taut so you get an even tension with your stitches. Without a hoop your stitches can end up pulling the fabric into a buckled shape, especially as a beginner. And yes, going half out then coming back to finish the cross is called the Danish method, doing each stitch individually is the English method. I have another video just on that, and when to use each style. 🙂

[@FC360D]

@@peacockandfig Oh right cool, I'll have to order myself a embroidery hoop then. I did cross stitching way back in the late 90's at school but when I moved to the UK and went to school here boys only did wood and metal work while the girls did sewing, needle work and cooking. Going to be ordering a different cross stitch kit though as the one I have seems too complicated for a beginner like me lol.

[@Stephanie.Kost1]

Newbie here trying to learn.

[@peacockandfig]

Hopefully the tutorials help Stephanie! 😊

[@Stephanie.Kost1]

Very helpful.

[@sandysolis1366]

Complete newbie here - how do you know where to start?

[@peacockandfig]

Hi Sandy! I have a whole playlist on KZbin for beginners, so that may help too. 😊 Depending on the pattern and whether it's full coverage or whether there is fabric visible in the design like a lot of my patterns, some people start in the upper left of the first page, others will start in the middle of the pattern and work their way out. I do have a tutorial in my channel about how to start in the middle (and make sure you have enough border of fabric so you don't run out of fabric while stitching). Or if you want to do a full class from beginning to end, I do have a Cross Stitch Fundamentals class on Skillshare -- it takes you all the way through your first project from beginning to end, including finishing the hoop, and comes with a free pattern as well. If you don't have a Skillshare account already, my link will give you a 30 days free trial, which is pleeeenty of time to do that class (and even several others I teach). So do check that out if you're interested, many people find going through a whole class is a lot easier to learn from than bouncing through a bunch of individual tutorials that don't involve the same project. Here's the link to that class -- skl.sh/2PBuPuv Happy stitching! 😊❤️

[@biancacordova5250]

Stupid Coronavirus has me over getting frustrated ugh 😫 and trying to do this

[@peacockandfig]

Just slow down if you're getting frustrated, it's totally normal to be edgy right now. 💖 You'll get it, just go slow, and keeping pausing the video if you need. You can do this, and once you get the hang of it, you'll go from frustration to "omg this is soooo relaxing". ❤️

[@jacinth8268]

This is was helpful!

[@peacockandfig]

You're very welcome! 😊

[@shonarkutir912]

Where will we get this fabric?we live in Bangladesh.

[@peacockandfig]

I have no idea, I don't live there sorry. Try and see if places like Amazon or 123stitch.com can ship there, but it may be expensive and there may be duties. Just search "buy Aida in Bangladesh" and see what comes up. 😊

[@trinaportner4125]

When I started to Crosstitch what I put on my 14 count it looks smaller than what is shown on the pattering that I am doing is that normal

[@peacockandfig]

Hi Trina! I'm not sure what you mean by smaller, smaller compared to what? The picture on the front of the pattern? 🙂

[@bridgetharrison103]

@@peacockandfig I think that's what she is referring too

[@jolenedegrandpre6031]

I’m so new to cross stitch. I watched your video about drawing the grid on your fabric, but now there is no grid on the project. Can you see over the grid? Is there such a tutorial?

[@peacockandfig]

Usually you only grid for really big or dense projects, this tutorial doesn't use gridding as you don't need it for such a small area. 🙂

[@terrymazur8905]

Hi I'm new to your video My name is terryann I'm doing a table running It already has the picture on it

[@peacockandfig]

Hi Terry! That's stamped cross stitch, I don't have any tutorials specifically on how to follow those patterns as they're not as common as printed or digital patterns these days. The stitches are all exactly the same as how I teach, but you'd just stitch according to the colours on the fabric, it's basically paint by numbers but with thread. 😊

[@terrymazur8905]

That's OK Thank you for your tips They are very helpful Know I understand how to find the middle

[@medewesi5778]

Nagyon jó videjo lett és aszt mondta anyám hogy majd ha nagy leszek majd én is fogok ijet csinálni

[@peacockandfig]

Sorry I don't speak your language ❤️

[@uthoughtnidrei]

I need this from my homework 🤣

[@peacockandfig]

Ahahah good luck with it Andrei! 😂

[@ceji9942]

ughh samee

[@jolenedegrandpre6031]

I meant can you sew/stitch over the grid?

[@peacockandfig]

Yes, you can, assuming that if you stitched the lines in you used a non-penetrable thread like nylon. Otherwise you won't be able to remove them if your stitching happens to catch the grid lines and pierce it. 😊

[@ilkererduran1367]

So thank you for the viedo

[@peacockandfig]

You're very welcome 😊

[@ji.couple]

Hi, how many strands should be, 2 or 3?

[@peacockandfig]

For what fabric? I use two strands for 14 or 16 count, and 3 for 11 count. You don't want too many strands otherwise you can create a lot of friction when you pull the threads through (and friction will create a lot of issues with knotting, maybe shredding your floss, etc), and you want to be able to see the beautiful "x" shape of the stitch and not just a lump of floss. 😊

[@ji.couple]

Thankyou soOo much for the tips, 11 count ❤ I was doing crosstitch 11yrs ago already 😊 so just trying to recall, research, ask, everything now. Thanks 😍

[@monicamajor3954]

Do you have to use a hoop or a frame when you do cross stitch or can you just hold the fabric in your hand

[@peacockandfig]

You can just hold the fabric in your hand, you can see more about that in my video about the sewing method of stitching. You just have to be more careful about your stitch tension when you stitch in hand, or your fabric may buckle a bit. :)

[@PNWFAE]

Say a row is 20 cross stitches long (just as an example) do you cross stitch your lower stitch the entire row then come back the entire row for your upper stitch? I’ve been seeing some differing advice online. Some people say do 5 at a time but that doesn’t make sense to me.

[@peacockandfig]

Yeah that makes zero sense, I don't know why someone would say that... in reality, it's rare you'll get long runs of one colour anyway. It happens with certain types of patterns, especially ones with geometric borders or whatnot, but yeah, just stitch as many in a row as your little heart desires. :)

[@peacockandfig]

The only time you'll want to do a longer run one stitch fully at a time (called the English method, I have another tutorial on that) is if you're using variegated thread. Your stitches can look super funky if you go out and then come back, as the colour changes in the floss will look odd. :)

[@EATUPfailos]

Hi what is the use of 14ct and 11ct? Thank you

[@peacockandfig]

Hi Sunshine, the use? They're cross stitch fabrics, the count is how many stitches to the inch you'll get (14 count = 14 stitches to one inch, 11 count = 11 stitches to one inch). So 11 count is going to end up with bigger stitches than 14 count, you can start with 11 count if you're a beginner but I usually recommend 14 count, it's the most common for Aida fabric (with the big holes like you can see in the video). 🙂

[@abbeyp8834]

Can I place the hoop over previous stitches or will it ruin them?

[@peacockandfig]

Totally fine Abbey, just leave 3D stitches like French knots or beading until last so you don't squish them. :)

[@abbeyp8834]

@@peacockandfig Thanks again sorry for all the questions! 💕

[@bibin0606]

Loved it!!! Tysm!

[@peacockandfig]

You're very welcome! 😊

[@martynw9166]

I hope this is not a silly question, but are there any gentlemen who cross-stitch?

[@peacockandfig]

Haha hi Martyn! No, that's not a silly question at all, and yes there are so many men that stitch! I actually did a video about "manbroiderers" a while ago celebrating men who stitch, there are so many out there. Particularly now on forums like Reddit or Subversive Cross Stitch's page, there are tons of men doing all kinds of patterns from pop culture inspired ones to full-on artworks. Like I have a friend who adores doing wolf patterns (we were in Wolfe Squadron together in military training), and he does so well at them. One really well-known man who I didn't find out about until after I did the video is Rosey Grier, the ex-NFL player. He even wrote a book for men stitchers in the 70s (complete with football patterns), and he's said in interviews he has to get his wife to thread his needle for him as his hands are so big. :D Here's a link to the video I did, I hope you enjoy it! And thanks for popping in, I'd love to see more men stitching! :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/fquXoGZ4d7ODm7c

[@martynw9166]

Many thanks!

[@peacockandfig]

Haha you're very welcome Martyn, and happy stitching! :)

[@dovahkitsune]

I do

[@peacockandfig]

Awesome! :) Have you seen my "manbroiderers" video? Stitcher Moose is hilarious.

[@adriennesamantha]

Hello i was wondering if you had any advice for me. I am doing a cross stitch and the holes are very close together and small so the fabric gets thick and it is hard to get the needle through. Do you have any advice?

[@peacockandfig]

Hi Adrienne! I'm not sure what thread count you're using (how many stitches to the inch), but you could try using a smaller tapestry needle. Also make sure you're not using too many strands of floss -- like if you're using 14 count fabric, you'll usually only use 2 strands of floss at a time (or else you'll not be able to get the needle through the holes repeatedly). Hope that helps! :)

[@puspopuspo4746]

what is the fabric?

[@peacockandfig]

It's 14 count Aida fabric. 😊

[@ValkyrieTiara]

Sorry if you answer this in a later video, but why do you start three stitches and then finish them backwards? As opposed to starting a bottom stitch, finishing the top stitch, and moving on to the next cross (as you do in the preview video with the heart pattern)? How do I know if I should be completing stitches as I go, or using the "over and back" method that you do here?

[@peacockandfig]

Haha that's a great question Tiara! Actually, you can do either, it's completely up to you. I tend to do a mix of both -- if it's a long stretch of the same colour, I'll do the Danish style (like I show in the video, doing one way first then coming back and doing the other way). If there's lots of random stitches all over the place, I use the English style (doing one stitch fully then moving on to the next). There is no right or wrong, it's completely personal preference and what you feel comfortable with. I just did it that way in the video to really show the diagonal lines going each direction. :) Does that help?

[@ValkyrieTiara]

Yeah, thanks! Follow up question: How much does the back of the project matter? Is it better to try to have your stitching travel around in a logical manner, or is it OK if thread is jumping all over the back every which way? Does that make sense? Thanks so much for your time!

[@peacockandfig]

Haha I'm actually going to be doing a video specifically about that once I get my new collection launched (on Oct 18, wooot!), but here's the basic viewpoint I'm going to talk about. There are only a few reasons you ever really want to worry about what the back looks like. If you're entering it into a fair or competition to be judged, they'll want the back very neat and tidy. If you're using very fine and delicate fabric with dark floss colours, you'll want to not carry your floss too far across open areas or it will be seen from the front. And you don't want giant lumps of knots and tangles at the back, as they'll make the front look lumpy when the piece is framed. Other than that, don't even worry about what the back looks like, it's not worth the stress. Some stitchers really enjoy getting the back to look super neat, but for most it's more of a hassle than it's worth and completely sucks the joy out of stitching (which is kind of the whole point). If you travel really far between stitches without ending and restarting your thread, you may find you use up more floss (which may be a problem if you have a kit with a limited amount of each colour), but as long as you're happy stitching, just do what you like. I never worry about the back, I actually really love how the back becomes a "diary" of your journey to create the piece. It's like it has its own personality. :)

[@ValkyrieTiara]

Excellent! Thanks again~

[@peacockandfig]

You're welcome Tiara! :)

[@chuckswain8299]

I have an 💡. Make a chess board from #11 cross stich fabric. 2" squares with an inch or two boarder on each side. Makes a great hand made gift for you or a special someone that played chess

[@peacockandfig]

Yep you could absolutely do that Chuck, that'd be really easy to chart out on graph paper so you get the size you want. 😊❤️

[@mousumisembroiderystitch5533]

What is the name of those clothes??🥰🥰

[@peacockandfig]

You mean the fabric? It's called Aida, it's 14 count (14 stitches to the inch). 🙂

[@lairenvanmanaligod8581]

How do you lock the thread tho?

[@peacockandfig]

What do you mean lock the thread Lairen? You mean anchor it at the beginning? You can use the loop method or pin stitch (I have a whole tutorial on those techniques), or simply a small knot. To finish your thread, you can use a small knot, a pin stitch, or run your needle under a few previous stitches to anchor the thread end. :)

[@princessangel4839]

i love cross stitch 💕

[@peacockandfig]

Glad to hear it, it's great isn't it! 🙂

[@designersaroj9041]

Beautiful.stay connected

[@peacockandfig]

Happy stitching 😊

[@MissFlux]

Hi :) I know a little about embroidery but only did cross stitch in kindergarten. Loooooong ... looong time ago lmao. So what you showed looked very straight forward but when I went back the other way all you can see is the top stitch slants? Not the X. So I tried spacing it out by one hole .. I got 3 X X X , but VERY spaced out. Is this just a matter of thread size? Perhaps the initial one that just looked like lumps &/or the top stitch slants, was I using to many stands? I guess I should split the floss & find out lol. But any tips & info you can give would be so appreciate🙏 Also, is there such a thing as using stamps in a light ink to do your work over?? It occurred to me & I just don't know if that's going to work or not. I don't have much supplies so I'd rather try & get help than use up floss & aida 😊 Thanks Dana 🤔. 🙌

[@peacockandfig]

Hi there! Yes, if you're using a full strand of embroidery floss (6 strands), that's way too many for most cross stitch fabrics. What I'm using in the tutorial is two strands (or one strand folded in half). If you use too many strands, you won't see the X which is what makes cross stitch so beautiful. 🙂 For 14 count fabric (14 stitches to the inch) which is what I'm using in the tutorial, two strands is what's recommended. And you can get stamped cross stitch kits (where the pattern is stamped onto the fabric and you stitch over it), but it's near impossible to do that yourself, and those patterns are hard to find these days (they're usually from Asia or kind of traditional looking patterns). Normally you just follow the grid on your pattern, one grid on the pattern = one stitch on your fabric. Hope that helps! 🙂

[@MissFlux]

Peacock & Fig Thankyou you're a doll! I was successful using 3 stands but this must be really high count aida, so I think 2 stands would be the go. It's great cause it will make my floss stash last MUCCCHHHH longer 😊 All us crafters can appreciate that ;) Ok, onto the next stitch to learn. I think there are like 1/2 stitches & apart from straight straight stitch there doesn't seem to BE any other stitches to learn?? Thankyou for your timely help🙌😊👍🌺

[@peacockandfig]

Haha glad it helped! And yep, there's fractional stitches and backstitch, those are the two most common other stitches (and I have tutorials for them in my channel). You'll also come across French knots in cross stitch, my tutorial will really help if you struggle with those, a ton of people have said OMG NOW I CAN DO THEM AFTER 30 YEARS..... 😂 Some patterns also use beading and/or metallics as well, and I have tutorials for all that too. 🙂

[@peacockandfig]

Ahahah glad you got it sorted out! I still use knots sometimes, especially if I'm working on black fabric which can be a pain at the best of times. I always tell people not to stress about knots, as long as they don't leave lumps when framing then it's not worth losing your mind over. :) And here's that piece I was working on finished, I called it "Shades of Grace" -- peacockandfig.com/product/shades-of-grace-cross-stitch-pattern/ :)

[@MissFlux]

Peacock & Fig thanks doll :) Oh I'm totally versed in French knots & bullions knots. I do a little embroidery so I know quite a few stitches. But that just sort of comes naturally to me, like I can figure out how to "draw" / embroider what I want. But cross stitch is more geometric in the planning of designs, in that it seems , you work in these little squares. I'm interested in following my first pattern, & then take it to a very modern end of the spectrum. I've seen some AMAZING ways of using cross stitching that really got the bug on for me✨😊✨ Thankyou for all your help .. now off to your next tutorial :))☺️

[@abbeyp8834]

So is it wrong to complete the x in one stitch? Thats how ive been doing it!😣

[@peacockandfig]

Absolutely not, that's called the English method and is totally ok. 😀 I'm demonstrating using the Danish method just as it's easier for beginners to see how the stitch is formed. I do have a separate video on the English vs Danish method, and when each is best. 🙂

[@abbeyp8834]

@@peacockandfig oh!! Thanks I never knew that😮😀

[@bridgetharrison103]

@@peacockandfig Thank you for explaining the difference I never knew there was one.

[@janmeccav5158]

Please help me understand my pattern, I have this something different in my pattern it says 24+32(the line numbering of the threads on where they are in position) 24 thread DMC number is 341 and 32 thread DMC number is 340 I don't understand how and what will I do if there is 2 different threads in one pattern sign, is that mean I will use and mix those 2 threads in one needle?

[@peacockandfig]

Hi Jan! Yes it does, that's a blended thread. I have a video on that here -- kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWGWp5Wwn9Nlrq8 🙂

[@janmeccav5158]

@@peacockandfig ohhh Thank you very much 👍😊

[@svrangerchrista09]

can you tell me where you got the pattern for the fallen angel?

[@peacockandfig]

Fallen angel? I'm not sure what you're referring to Christa. 🙂

[@glossbones]

Hi Dana, thank you for making all your wonderful and helpful videos! I just started cross stitching and I'm having a hard time sticking my needle from the back to the front without looking at the back of the fabric, so I've just been peeking at the back to find the holes. Is this acceptable? 😇

[@peacockandfig]

Hahaha hi, thanks for your question! Yes that's totally fine, you gotta do what you gotta do! :) Once you get the hang of it you can start to "feel" for the holes with the tip of your needle, but even for me I sometimes couldn't hit the hole I wanted if it was the size of a barn door. When you're feeling more comfortable with stitching you can also try the sewing method, I just did a video about it a couple of weeks ago. It is a little harder for beginners as you don't use a hoop (so it's harder to keep your stitch tension even), but then you don't have to feel from the back at all as your hand stays above the fabric pretty much all the time. Just keep stitching, and if you figure out a way to do something that makes it easier for you, just do that. No stitching police are going to come after you. :)

[@glossbones]

Thanks so much for your reply! :)

[@peacockandfig]

Haha you're very welcome! Happy stitching! :)

[@shirleywilliams3831]

I'm wanting to do this I'm a beginner but it seems so hard maybe cause I'm thick lol my daughterinlaw bought me one with a horse 🐎 pattern it looks easy on video but when u try it ourselves looks hard lol I hope I get to do it in time .its so pretty ill keep watching videos to learn more happy new year x

[@Plasmagal]

Lol, my mom tried to teach me cross-stitching, and I couldn't make a cross stitch, and ended up trying to pull out the yarn-

[@peacockandfig]

Ahahaha it happens, at least you found your way back to it. :)

[@gabrieladosanjos2204]

Hello, I was hoping if you could answer a very beginner question. When people say "2 strands" , does it also count as 2 when I fold them to make the knot, or it becomes 4?

[@peacockandfig]

Hi Gabriela, thanks for your question! If you're using the loop method (folding it in half), and then your pattern says to use 2 strands, you'd actually be folding one strand in half. That will give you your two strands (you'd just cut your floss longer because you're folding it in half). If you fold 2 strands in half, that's the same as using 4 strands individually, so you likely will have too much floss for your fabric size. Does that help? :)

[@gabrieladosanjos2204]

Peacock & Fig oh yes, I just started cross stitching and even when I googled it I could never find the answer for this question. I'm half way through a pattern and I was noticing it didn't looked like the one fron the website. Thankfully, I'm using 11 aida so it looks good either way.

[@peacockandfig]

Haha that's good, I'm glad your stitching still looks nice! 4 strands is about right for 11 count. 🙂

[@MzSweetheart96744]

Thank you!

[@peacockandfig]

You're very welcome! 😊

[@arnelsulague8326]

What is the name of cloth?

[@peacockandfig]

It's called Aida, it's 14 count (14 stitches to the inch). :)

[@al1x0x]

thanks for your help I have a question. when I'm doing my X shape the space between each one looks huge even though I'm going through the next hole. it's my first time doing cross stitch so my eyes might be being weird, but how's you make the gaps smaller

[@peacockandfig]

Hi Alisha! Do you mean the holes in the fabric are really big when you make your stitches, or the fabric is still visible a lot after you've stitched? If the holes are really big (making the crosses look like they're far apart), then that's the size of your needle. For 14 count I recommend using a size 24 or 26 tapestry needle -- you want the needle to be big enough that threading it isn't too hard, but small enough it doesn't make the holes in the fabric a lot bigger. If you're using metallic floss, it's better to use a slightly bigger needle as then the floss doesn't tangle as it's being dragged through the fabric. If your crosses are looking a little "thin" and like they're not covering the fabric much, you can try adding one more strand of floss and see if that helps. I use 2 strands for 14 count (or one strand doubled in half), I like seeing the fabric peek through a little bit as that's what shows off the "x" shape of the stitch. Does that help? 🙂

[@al1x0x]

thank you for replying, it's hard to explain basically I'm using a kit with the thread and needle included. the gaps I mean are between each stitch like there is an X and a gap then an X and a gap if that makes sense. X X X but everything I've seen goes XXX I'm probably missing something really basic here.

[@al1x0x]

sorry it's hard to explain without being able to show you.

[@peacockandfig]

Haha I'm sure you're not. :) Is it a stamped cross stitch pattern (where the x's are printed onto the fabric), or are you using cross stitch fabric with the holes, then following a printed chart?

[@al1x0x]

Peacock & Fig the material is blank and I'm copying off a little picture. it's called Wren BK 1662 and I've just started the belly of the bird if that helps

[@karnativishnu2103]

Hi this is Vishnu I am Handloom saree maker from the India (pochampally sarees) ..I want buy some embroidery books to make the design on the saree ..am trying for that am not getting the proper book related to.. Please let me information from anything to related it.

[@peacockandfig]

Hi Vishnu! I'm sorry but I have zero ideas about what would look good on a saree. I'm going to be doing some basic embroidery tutorials soon, but I think you'd have to look around and see what style of stitches might look best on a saree. 🙂

[@princesstamera922]

i knoe you will proberly not see this because its not 10 months ago but can you do a watermellon slice

[@peacockandfig]

Hi there! I'm not sure what you mean, you want me to design a watermelon slice?

[@princesstamera922]

yeah if you go on google and type up triangular watermellon slice and when it come up with images can you do it but in crosstich

[@princesstamera922]

because im doing cross stich in my class i tried finding it on youtube but i had no luck and i found this channel by the way i love your videos

[@peacockandfig]

No I can't do that for you I'm afraid, I usually only do custom patterns for magazines and companies like DMC as they are very time consuming and expensive. I do have free patterns you can access on my site if you sign up at peacockandfig.com/join-now, but no watermelon slices. I have some "Sassy Sweets" patterns coming up soon as part of a stitchalong, but no watermelon, and they'll be very cheeky. peacockandfig.com/sassy-sweets 🙂

[@princesstamera922]

thats ok

[@elizabethnewberry1672]

Do you get thread and round thing at Walmart

[@peacockandfig]

You'll have to check your local Walmart and see what they carry Elizabeth -- I'm in Canada, our Walmarts don't carry floss and other materials usually but I know US ones often do. 🙂

[@conniewilliamson9995]

I have never been able to stay on a cross stiching project. the truth is i buy a kit or pattern. .then get home get ready to begin. .start reading all the instructions. .then i set it aside never to look at it again. say that. my question is, why don't or can't the pattern be on the fabric. this is a focus thing with me. I can't seem to get the pattern right in my head long enough to do it free style (as I call it) . so can i transfer the pattern to my fabric and if so how do i do it (transfer the pattern) .thanks and if you would please find me on face book to answer my question. GOD BLESS.

[@michellebonds2985]

Connie Williamson hello! I use to have that problem myself, I finally decided to try small, very small patterns that I changed the colors to “make them personal and more mine”. Thank goodness I stuck with cross stitch long enough to develop a passion for it now! I’m still changing patterns to making them “mine” which was hard in the beginning! With each pattern, I finished completely, as well as changed something for the passion to continue. One day, one pattern, each stitch is unique for me. Are you willing to take the plunge for this?

[@viratpandey6085]

your video is amazing it helped me a lot in making me my project

[@peacockandfig]

Thanks so much Virat, I'm glad it helped! 🙂

[@johnlandhelferrer2350]

thank's you know i got high grade for our subject 😇😇

[@peacockandfig]

Ahahah awesome, glad to hear it John! 🙂

[@mercywawira4579]

John Landhel Ferrer thanks for that cross stitch and where can I get you for more information

[@whatamitoyou6850]

I cant do it. Can u make a new vid? i wanna see the back one. Pls i wanna also learn how to make it bit big one. Thank u.

[@peacockandfig]

Sorry no I can't make it again just for you, this video alone has over a million views. And I don't understand what you mean by the back one or a bigger one, it's just making an X with thread. 😊

[@peacockandfig]

Also, look up the video on my channel for English method vs Danish method, that might be helpful for you as there are two ways to form a cross stitch. 😊

[@astroedits3926]

Here because of school

[@peacockandfig]

Awesome, enjoy! 😊

[@ariahale4352]

But when you start a new line do you go up or down from that row because if you go up you have to go back through the same hole and it will come undone no video I have watch has covered this and it’s killing me

[@peacockandfig]

Hi Aria! That's simple, you just start the next stitch (or row) from the opposite side. Say you're used to starting your stitch in the upper left and going to the lower right, but if you do that your last stitch will pop out. So instead, start at the lower right and go up to the upper left. Your stitch direction is still the same, but your stitch won't pop out. 🙂

[@hannahlynn8028]

@@peacockandfig Can you do a video showing this?

[@cyrillmarcokatigbak2527]

what's the meaning of 1 skein?

[@peacockandfig]

A skein is how you buy embroidery floss. It's 8 metres of six strands of the floss. 😊

[@blanca1031]

This was very helpful...thank you!

[@peacockandfig]

You're very welcome Blanca! 🙂

[@animejunkie10]

have you heard of anyone conditioning their thread so it won't knot? I know they do it for sewing and jewelry but is it even safe for embroidery floss?

[@peacockandfig]

Hi there! Yes, many people use either beeswax or Thread Heaven (a thread conditioner). It's totally ok to use on embroidery thread, some people have 2 tubs of Thread Heaven (one for darker colours and one for lighter colours). I have it but I don't use it, for me it didn't do much. If your thread strands are too long, or your needle is too fine (so the floss is rubbing against the holes in the fabric too much), that contributes a lot to your thread knotting. If your threads are no longer than the tip of your fingers to your elbow, you'll find they don't knot as much. If you use the loop method to start, just double that length. Hope that helps! 🙂

[@animejunkie10]

Peacock & Fig thank you ^_^

[@momoglo1644]

These were very well done anc easy for me to follow. Thank you.

[@peacockandfig]

You're very welcome, I'm glad you enjoyed the video! :)

[@anngutierrez5844]

What fabric are you using?

[@peacockandfig]

Hi Ann! I'm just using 14 count Aida I got at Michaels (their "Loops and Threads) brand. But any fabric you enjoy works too! :)

[@danielledetera8511]

Will you prefer 4 strands over 2?

[@peacockandfig]

Danielle Detera Hi Danielle! I never use 4 strands of floss, I use 14 or 16 count fabric and 4 strands would be too thick. I use 2 strands for those fabric counts, I prefer how it looks and it's easy to stitch. You can try 4 and see how you like it, that might be ok for 11 count fabric. If it's too hard getting your floss through the fabric or your floss starts getting a bit worn and shredded from going through very tight fabric holes, there are too many strands. Hope that helps! :)

[@dedidewa1869]

Ikutan belajar neng!!!

[@peacockandfig]

Sorry, dunno what language that is. 😊