Flosstube Extra: How I Cross Stitch Fast - Stitching in Hand

[@homemadeontheridge]

Thank you so much for showing how you stitch! Loved this video!

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! Glad you liked it. It is interesting how we all stitch differently. Happy Stitching :)

[@DeborahDeLisle]

First time viewer & found this most interesting. I’ve been stitching since my early teens now 71 & have never heard the terms English or danish stitching; even though I do both. I always use a hoop & do like a medium stiffness to my cloth. Tks for sharing 💝

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! It is interesting how even though we stitch differently, we still all love the hobby. Happy Stitching :)

[@ElishaMcDowell]

This was such a great video!! Thank you!

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! Happy Stitching :)

[@HipHop-Stitcher]

Excellent video. I love videos that show the stitchers process.

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! I know. It's so interesting seeing how other people stitch. Happy Stitching :)

[@lindapearson3340]

I stitch with a hoop. I stitch the full cross stitch all at one time. I just learned the loop start and I love it. I work on aida cloth only and it is always 2 over 1. This video was very helpful to see how you stitch. When I stitch I go slow so I can enjoy every single stitch and watch the picture come alive on my aida cloth. Love seeing that you can stitch on all different kinds of fabric. Can not wait until your next video. Happy Stitching.

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks for sharing! It's very interesting how everyone's different and I love how you enjoy every single stitch. Happy Stitching :)

[@georgiemcdougle9064]

Probably 98% of the time, I do the English stitching. Occasionally, I do the Danish method depending on the area I'm working in. I really enjoyed this floss tube.

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! If it's a variegated thread I use English stitching, but I love the Danish method of rows. I think it's because that's how I learnt first. Happy Stitching :)

[@lorettahenderson8979]

Excellent tutorial ❤

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! Happy Stitching :)

[@userJoyceA]

I bought the Halloween calendar today. When I get the chance I’ll make it for next year. Thank you for sharing it with me!

[@adelaidestitches]

I'm so glad you like the Halloween Calendar too. I love it. I haven't framed mine yet but I just enjoy getting out my finished piece and looking at it. I'm stitching the Christmas one this December and I'm really excited about having matching calendars. Happy Stitching :)

[@nancyevans7609]

After seeing your video, I am going to try stitching in hand. I have been using a hoop on all counts of Aida, Lugana and linen fabrics to keep the fabric taunt but I am curious to see if I can have good tension in hand. Your video was so helpful and I’ve also learned from one of the comments to try the loop method from the top of the fabric😃 Thank you for sharing your experience with stitching faster. It was very informative❤️

[@adelaidestitches]

That's so exciting! You're going to let me know how you go. Yes I've been looking up and trying different loop methods now too. It's amazing how much you can learn from this lovely community. Happy Stitching :)

[@acfcreations640]

I also stitch in hand and it's by far my favorite method! I've tried stitching on a hoop, but it was sooooo slow for me and I wasn't enjoying it at all! I will occasionaly use a hoop if I have to do a lot of backstitching with long stitches, because it helps with the tension. I use the sewing method but my needle goes horizontally (right to left) rather than top to bottom. It is the way I was taught by my mother when I was a child and it works pretty well for me. I believe stitching in hand is the fastest method and keeping the tension even is something you can learn with practice!

[@adelaidestitches]

I really enjoy stitching in hand too. That's so interesting that you still use the hoop for backstitch. Thanks! I'll keep that in mind if I have a lot to do. I agree that the tension is practice and also figuring out how you like your stitches to lie. Happy Stitching :)

[@theresapetrik1995]

So glad I found your channel, this was an awesome video! Thank you. Some great tips and visuals. I usually stitch in hand except when it's a really large, usually full coverage piece. Then I use stretcher frames and a lowery stand. Look forward to following you.

[@adelaidestitches]

I've never used stretcher frames. I'll have to try them. Is there a certain brand you like? I love my lowery with q-snaps for full coverage at the moment. Thanks for sharing. Happy Stitching :)

[@theresapetrik1995]

@@adelaidestitches I use EZ Stretcher Bars/Frames. I like them because you can stitch tack your fabric or velcro to them.

[@adelaidestitches]

@@theresapetrik1995 That's good to know. Thank you :)

[@laurieclausen5813]

Loved your video, great tutorial. Im following. Cant wait for your next one. Thanks

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video. Happy Stitching :)

[@Aspen_stitcher]

Great video Adelaide! Love all the info and tips. Just started cross stitching so use a hoop, but think I will try in hand. 💕 Thank you!

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! Let me know how you go. The tension does take practice. But it makes stitching any time, any place a lot easier for me. Happy Stitching :)

[@rholandaboland7868]

This was a great informative video to show stitching in hand. Well done on getting the thread out of flossdrop and threading the needle first time. 😂 That is tricky to do holding it up like you did. I love the Berry picking chart I might have to look into getting that one. I stitch many ways, in hand, in a qsnap or similar to a nurge frame or a scroll frame. When in the hoops/frames I stitch with 1 hand above the project and one underneath and can go quickly if working with the one colour for a while. When I stitch in hand it's due to the small size or close to the edge of fabric where the frames are awkward to fit. I also use a combo of English and Danish methods. 😊

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks for the lovely comment! It really made me smile :) It is really interesting to hear that you stitch in lots of different ways too. I would like to try a scroll frame one day. And I've been meaning to pick up a nurge hoop too. That's what's so fun about stitching. There is always something new to learn! Happy Stitching :)

[@jennharts1]

Thank you for the demos! I also stitch in hand, but on higher count fabrics it's easier for me to see the holes if I use a hoop. When I use a hoop I can also the sewing method which helps to go faster.

[@adelaidestitches]

That's so interesting! I'm trying a project on 40ct soon so I'll let you know how it goes. And when you use a hoop with the sewing method do you have to loosen the tension of the fabric? Happy Stitching :)

[@wampler7]

I love the loop start. You should try the topside loop stitch. You don’t have to turn it over at all! I frequently use pin stitches to finish, once again, so you don’t have to turn your work over.

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much for sharing! I'm going to look up and try these methods. I'll let you know how they go. Happy Stitching :)

[@KathysQuiltsandStitching]

I use the sewing method too. Such a great Halloween stitch...amazing that you could finish it in a month! I stitched Strawberry Mouse Jam also and love that design! Marvellous finishes!

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! Tiny Modernist has the cutest designs! I love them too. Happy Stitching :)

[@janoechler-kirschbaum-eh9ln]

Thank you for sharing. I am always wondering how do folks get so much done so quickly. I’ve cross-stitched for 50+ years in some type of hoop or frame and use the stab method. 😂 it may be too difficult to train myself to do the sewing method, but I am going to try on some smaller pieces.

[@adelaidestitches]

I'm so glad you found the video helpful. Let me know how you go with the sewing method. It feels strange at first but you do get into a rhythm. The important thing though is to enjoy your cross stitch. Happy Stitching :)

[@CarolAttrux]

I enjoyed this video very much! Thank you for sharing!🇨🇦😍

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! Happy Stitching :)

[@magnolianana1552]

New subscriber and fellow flosstuber - thank you for the great video! I am a hoop stitcher but use a stand to allow me to stitch with both hands. I have stitched in hand when using aida and enjoyed it, but with my linens I need that hoop. Your work is lovely!! I appreciate the way you talk about making time for stitching without complaining about not having enough time. There are seasons of life, right?!!!Have a great November! Thanks again for sharing!🙃💗🪡🧵

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! I've subscribed to your flosstube so I can check it out. Very interesting that you stitch in hand for Aida but not linen. I have a very loose linen for one of my projects so next time I get it out, I'm going to try it in a hoop to see if that helps . Thanks! Happy Stitching :)

[@magnolianana1552]

@ I will be interested to hear what you think about a hoop for linen. Actually, the Christmas piece I am working on now is a Bothy Threads kit and the fabric is printed aida so it is very stiff. I have it in my hoop stand and am stitching two-handed. That works well for me.

[@adelaidestitches]

@@magnolianana1552 I'll let you know. Have fun with your Bothy Threads kit. They look so beautiful when they're done :)

[@kimsopar6976]

Thanks for sharing this Adelaide - I stitch the same way. The only difference for me is that I usually do the loop start from the front (and then when you've gone back through the fabric you just give it a little tug to get the loop to the back). I've tried hoop and frame and didn't like them because I use the sewing method so prefer the flexibility of in hand.

[@adelaidestitches]

Good to know others stitch in hand too. Thanks for sharing! I need to try the front loop start with two strands. Thanks for letting me know. Happy Stitching :)

[@caseycarr5222]

Great video! I enjoyed it very much.

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! Happy Stitching :)

[@julistubbs4901]

Have you ever done a loop start on the top of your project? I love doing it that way whether I’m stitching in hand or in a hoop. I go down in the top right… up in bottom left… go through my loop and go back down in the bottom left. It pulls right through and lays nice and flat! Always enjoy your videos.

[@adelaidestitches]

No I haven't. I'm going to try this! Thanks so much! Happy Stitching :)

[@cynthiacarter532]

I started cross stitching in 1977 and in the last 10 years my hand gets tired if I scrunch and grip the fabric, so I’ve gone back to a 6 inch wood hoop. I use the Danish method almost always (even with subtle overdyed threads) and mostly “sew” the stitches.

[@adelaidestitches]

How interesting that you can still use the sewing method with a hoop. Thanks for sharing and happy stitching :)

[@TessLynnxo]

New Subbee here and pretty new stitcher. Thank you for the information. Im such slow stitcher and i think your tips will help 💕

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks! I'm so glad I could help. It is a journey and you will go through may stages. I'm still changing up what I do and learning new things. Have fun and happy stitching :)

[@biadoras]

Well made video.

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! Happy Stitching :)

[@beckyacosta2090]

Hi Adelaide. You just popped up in my feed and I am very interested in stitching in hand. What model is your Samsung tablet and size? Your stitches look great! Do you ever feel a need to railroad your stitches when stitching with 2 threads? Do you ever stitch with one thread? Thank you so much for a great video. 😻

[@adelaidestitches]

Hi Becky, I have tried railroading but I always feel my stitches look worse...I have no idea why. So I just cross stitch normally. Do you railroad often? My Samsung tablet is the Galaxy Tab A from 2017. It's 8". I got it second hand from my Dad when he upgraded. I only use it for pattern keeper but it copes with that really well. I don't think I have stitched in hand with one thread yet, but I will be trying it when I start Halloween Quaker next year on 40ct so I'll let you know how that goes. Have fun trying stitching in hand! Happy Stitching :)

[@beckyacosta2090]

@ Thank you for replying. I have an Apple iPad and have been interested in a Samsung just for Patternkeeper. I railroad both stitches. That is why I usually stitch on 36 to use 1 thread. Going for faster. I will let you know how it goes! 😄

[@adelaidestitches]

@@beckyacosta2090 Good to know! Yes I think pattern keeper is worth it because it is only a one off fee and quite cheap. While the Apple program Markup seems to be a yearly subscription. I'm stitching on 36ct with two threads at the moment for my 324 but I will make sure I try one thread in the future. Have fun :)

[@KT-sq2ml]

Are you sure you don’t have your children under lock and key stitching for you on those school holidays? JUST KIDDING OF COURSE!! 😂 Love your videos and thank you for sharing your tips!!

[@adelaidestitches]

Lol! There would definitetly be a rebellion. Thanks for your kind words and happy stitching :)

[@KT-sq2ml]

@@adelaidestitches I hope you’re not mad at my poor attempt at a joke. Love your accent and your videos. ❤

[@adelaidestitches]

@@KT-sq2ml No not at all. It did make me chuckle :)

[@kimedge7493]

I use a Q Snap and a Elan frame, so I can stitch with one hand on top and one underneath. I wear 20x goggles too. I am not good at bending the fabric to stitch in hand and the needle often misses the hole I'm aiming at.

[@adelaidestitches]

How interesting! I've never heard of an Elan frame so I'll have to look them up. The glasses are a good idea too! I'll have to grab some readers from the chemist next time I'm there. I've ordered some 40ct so I might need them. Happy Stitching :)

[@judithsmith593]

I prefer stitching in hand. I roll up the side of the fabric I hold. I used to scrunch it but it made my work really wrinkly so nice I roll.

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks! That is a great tip. I should try rolling. Happy Stitching :)

[@sherriekeller319]

Adelaide, Loved this video. Where in Australia do you live? I adore the accent. I am in the Unites States in Tennessee. I learned to cross stitch back in the early 80s, and learned in hand and still stitch that way. I've tried hoops, q-snap, etc. and they are just too uncomfortable. My fingers give me fits at times so I'm not as fast as I once was but I stitch the sewing method as you do. Your work is beautiful and for having a family you do make great progress. Have you an e-mail address? I subscribed to your channel so I will be seeing you again. Thank you for sharing. BTW, your name is lovely. XX

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much for the lovely comment! It really made me smile :). I loved hearing how you stitch! It's great to hear other people stitch in hand too. I live on the Blue Mountains in New South Wales and my email address is [e-mail] . Happy Stitching :)

[@cardiffstitcherdanielle]

I use the front start loop method

[@adelaidestitches]

I need to look into that. Thanks for sharing! Happy Stitching :)

[@jenns_artlandia7896]

Hello, your stitching is lovely❣️ Question, if i may ask, have you ever used a magnifier? If so, could you recommend a magnifier for aging eyesight? Thank you ❣️

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! I have a Triumph light with a magnifier which is really good. It is a few years old now though so I'm not sure how available it is - www.amazon.com.au/LED-Floorstanding-Magnifying-Lamp-White/dp/B077GJWPX4 . I hope that helps :)

[@venisegionet3068]

2 over 1 on 32 count 😱🤯 wow, amazing

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks! I am stitching 2 over 2 on 32ct though. Not brave enough for 2 over 1 on 32ct yet!

[@rebeccajourney3183]

Hi Adelaide, so very nice to meet you! I live in the Tampa Bay area of Florida. I'm working towards my 70th year and have always loved counted cross stitch. I met a young girl who was an exchange student who stitched in hand. It was the first time I'd seen anyone stitch that way. I was in my late 20's and stitched all through the cold months in front of a wood fire in South Carolina. I miss that! Here, it is eternal summer. Too hot for me. I much prefer the seasons as Fall and Winter are favorites.

[@rebeccajourney3183]

P.S. By the way, I adore your Vincent Van Goah Starry, Starry Night. I have had a poster of for decades!

[@rebeccajourney3183]

Gogh

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! I love Autumn and Winter too. Your experience in South Carolina sounds just heavenly for cosy cross-stitching! It is so interesting to see how other people stitch. Happy Stitching :)

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks! It is beautiful isn't it! I'll let my husband know. He built it from Lego :)

[@Peggys_still_stitching]

The raw fabric I gave you is such a “hard” fabric lol good thing it’s just a small piece ❤

[@adelaidestitches]

It is stiffer but I find if you roll rather than scrunch it's fine. And it's definitely not as hard as some linens I've tried. It's such a beautiful piece of fabric! Thanks so much :)

[@stephaniemeeks9486]

I’m a lefty and stitch in hand, both English and Danish. Do you stitch your initials on your work? Happy stitching from Texas! 😊

[@B4kerBe4]

I put my first name & year on all my projects

[@adelaidestitches]

That is a great idea. I should do that too! Thanks for sharing :)

[@adelaidestitches]

No I don't but it is a great idea and I should do that. Thanks! Happy Stitching :)

[@melissabell2082]

What is the name of the app that you use for “pattern keeper”.

[@adelaidestitches]

Pattern Keeper is an app I have downloaded on my Android tablet. If you have an Apple device you can use Markup. They are from different companies so Pattern Keeper is a one off fee, while Markup is a yearly subscription. I have an old Android tablet with Pattern Keeper that I just use for cross-stitch. Hope that helps :)

[@melissabell2082]

Thank you so much for your quick reply. I just found your channel today and am really enjoying your content. ❤

[@adelaidestitches]

@@melissabell2082 No problem. I'm so glad you're enjoying it. Happy Stitching :)

[@FibersandFlossCanada]

❤❤❤

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks so much! Happy Stitching :)

[@kathyn4267]

I cross stitch like you. Thank you for the video.Not as fast though.

[@adelaidestitches]

Thanks! That's so nice. It seems a lot of people stitch in hand. Happy Stitching :)