Flosstube extra! TIPS & TRICKS

[@tammybunge5615]

So many great tips, going to rewatch it and write these down

[@shelby6066]

After 30 years I never knew the grain. This is brilliant!!!!!!!!!❤❤

[@CrossMyStitches]

So glad you found the video informative! Happy stitching. 🪡🪡🪡

[@DotJFreel]

I stitched for hours yesterday securing my thread after watching this and I will never stitch again without securing my thread! So nice not having the tangling and fraying and needle falling off the thread! Why am I 60 years old before I found this out!!!!????? I've sewed my entire life the hard way. Thank you so much!

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome! 😁

[@andrealoconto-du8ic]

I am just finding you,GREAT video.I have been stitching 35 years and just love your tricks and tips.Thank you

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome! I hope you will be back for part 2!

[@andrealoconto-du8ic]

I can't wait

[@janepanovich9818]

WOW! You have made my stitching life so much easier! Even after stitching 60 years I can learn something new. I now know how NOT to have my needle fall off the thread when I doze off while stitching. My husband appreciates the tip, too. He doesn’t have to help me find those silver needles in our gray carpeting 🤣🤣🤣. Thank you. I will have to watch some of your other videos and learn more helpful ideas. On to removing Slubs. 👍🏼😁

[@CrossMyStitches]

So glad the needle trick was helpful Jane. Tell your hubby I said, yay! It is so fun to share with this community. 🪡🪡🪡

[@jeanbarton4418]

Great tips! You are right, the metallic threads are a pain to work with! Thank you for teaching this 72 yr old , counted cross stitcher for 45 years, something new. Actually a lot of new tricks. 😎

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome! Glad it helped.

[@dragonflycait7184]

First timer here. Well done, informative video. Love the tool kits. I often pick up extra eyeglass cases for odd things, line storing clip on sunglasses. Hadn’t thought of mini sewing kits! I have two ‘Vera Bradley’s’ that are really big, and would be perfect. Thank you! As I said, I found this video very informative and I’ve been stitching since the mid ‘70’s. So I learned a new thing today. My day is a happy, complete day. Thank you!

[@CrossMyStitches]

So glad it was helpful and welcome to my channel!! I hope you will stick around and find my content enjoyable. Jacque

[@sleepycalico]

Another thing people should know is: If you are working with more than one thread, separate them, let them untwirl and then smooth them back together. This gives fuller coverage. Keep all threads pinched together by your thumb as you separate them and let them untwist so the correct grain will be preserved for all threads. When I first found flosstube, I kept seeing people ignoring the grain, so I kept explaining the grain issue and solution in comments. But I stopped after reading authorities claiming grain doesn't matter and the DMC site itself doesn't mention it. I can't account for that. Because, to me, I absolutely see the difference in the quality of stitches by minding the grain. I can *feel* the "catchiness" of the thread when I run it through my fingers against the grain as well as *see* the fuzziness of thread that has been used against the grain. I am so glad you are bringing this to everyone's attention. I gave up. Too much swimming against the tide. I hope you are able to restore the old lore. (I bet the warning about not putting Fray Check in you eyes is there because someone once grabbed it thinking it was an eye drops container and then sued.)

[@CrossMyStitches]

I don't want to think about the fray check in the eyes. Ouch!! I appreciate your comments and suggestions. It is always great to hear other points of view and things I may have missed. Happy stitching! Jacque

[@juststitchinginc9777]

Lots of great tips all in one place! As a shop owner who has offered custom framing for 35 years, I would not advise using Fray Check. We have seen older pieces with staining several inches into the cross stitch fabric from this product. It was meant for sewing projects where the seams will be trimmed. Fray Stop is better, but I personally would not use either of them. I’m glad you’ve had success:-) I’m happy KZbin suggested your channel and I will definitely share your videos with my customers! Shelly

[@CrossMyStitches]

Hi Shelly, thank you for your input on Fray Check. For me, I usually only use it for small pieces of fabrics and it gets cut off in the finishing process. For large pieces I always zigzag around the fabric. I will update that info on the next video. Tips and tricks part 2 will be out soon. So glad you are watching!! 😁

[@marywiggins7411]

Fray Block is better, I have used it on heirloom garments on the ends of ribbon and it does not yellow like Fray Check

[@megwatkins9480]

Wow! I’ve been stitching off and on for decades and never knew floss thread had a grain! The next needle I thread I’ll be checking that out. Thanks for the helpful video.

[@CrossMyStitches]

You're so welcome. Thanks for watching!

[@vivienrubio8129]

Locking the thread around the needle works for when you need to weave in tails for crochet or knitting also. I kept losing the yarn on the tapestry needle when I was weaving in the ends and this made it so much easier! Thank you for these tips.

[@CrossMyStitches]

Great to know! Thank you for watching and your comments. Jacque

[@theclosetquilterelliemiria198]

Thanks for the opposite end loop method to hold the needle onto the thread!

[@CrossMyStitches]

You're welcome!

[@hanyamoschner163]

My first time here and I learned new things after stitching for 42 years! Thank you and would appreciate any more tip or organisational videos 🌷

[@CrossMyStitches]

More to come for sure. Thank you for watching! Jacque

[@mary-louw2946]

I love this idea of locking the thread on the needle. This will help my grand-daughter as I teach her how to stitch.

[@CrossMyStitches]

Glad it was helpful!

[@SASmith-mg5pr]

The lock on thread is called A Larks Head Knot. I have used this method for silk thread applique for 40 years. Very handy I plan to try it on cross stitch. With silk thread you can use a Clover needle threader to make the loop!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Thanks for sharing!

[@NonniMcMac]

I've been stitching for 40 yrs and figured this video would contain info I already know. Boy, was I wrong! 😮 Like so many others here, I had no idea thread had a grain. I guess using the loop method to start is probably not ideal then since the grains would be in opposite directions that way??? Though, it's still a great option. Locking the thread onto the needle is something I learned years ago but had forgotten. I used that tip this morning and loved it! 😊 About the manicure/needle kit: fingernail clippers make great on-the-go thread snips! I use my clippers when I forget to bring scissors along. Thanks for a very informative video! I subscribed and am off to watch part two. ❤

[@CrossMyStitches]

So pleased that you found the video informative! We all learn new things along the way. even though thread has a grain, I prefer to hoop on the needle. I find that my stitches lay flatter and that the thread does not fray at all! what I plus!! Hope you got a chance to watch part 2. Jacque

[@donnaklingensmith8115]

Enjoyed your presentation. I am a long time stircher but picked up a couple tips, particularly the thread grain. Did not know that and hadn't heard or read that before😂

[@CrossMyStitches]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for Watching. 🪡🪡🪡

[@cabinfevercrafts1439]

Grain?! Who knew? I’ve never heard anyone discuss this. I am new to cross ditching and have listened to many many videos, and I am surprised no one has mentioned this. Love the idea of threading the needle as you showed. Wonderful tips. Thank you so much!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Welcome to the wonderful world of cross stitch! I do my best to pass along tips and tricks throughout my regular videos as well. Thank you for watching and happy stitching! 🪡🪡🪡

[@TheCraftyCataloger]

Great tips, as always. I especially like the tabs for the wdw and the eye glass case idea! Thanks for sharing!!

[@CrossMyStitches]

So glad you stopped by for a visit Katrina. Hope you had a wonderful Easter. ❤️🪡

[@Kellyschacht]

Thank you for showing us how to secure the thread!!!! What a game changer!!!!

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome!

[@SuperWhyaduck]

This was one of the most informative KZbin videos I’ve seen! Thank you 🙏 And yes please make more like this 😊

[@CrossMyStitches]

Thank you! More is definitely in the works!!

[@chriswashburn9039]

Just when I think I have this craft down pat….along comes someone who teaches me wonderful new tips! Thank you so much. I just subscribed.

[@CrossMyStitches]

Hello Chris! Welcome to my channel. I love sharing tips and tricks and a part 2 is in the works. Happy stitching 🪡🪡🪡

[@heidisnow]

Holy hell! You randomly showed up on my KZbin home page. These tips are freaking genius! I've saved this video so I can go back and watch as I need to use each tip. New subscriber. Thank you so much for sharing this info!!

[@heidisnow]

Ha! I'm now 17 minutes in and really want to comment again about how your tips are genius!!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Hello Heidi! 👋 You made me laugh!! I am far from a genius, but I do try to find my stitching journey fun and easier along the way and to be able to share the brings me joy. Happy stitching! 🪡🍀🪡

[@denisereynolds9471]

Great tips and information

[@CrossMyStitches]

Happy that you found it helpful! 🪡🪡🪡

[@karenproctor429]

I watched this video last week and now my stitching is so improved and I feel like I am stitching faster. I love the tip to lock the thread onto the needle. I had to come back and watch it again tonight. You are a great teacher!!

[@CrossMyStitches]

So glad it helped with your stitching! 🪡🪡🪡

[@Strickbirgit]

To secure the thread was a real game changer, thank you!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Awesome!!

[@redwingedfiber1066]

Thank you! Super helpful for this beginner stitcher. ❤

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome!

[@deehansen5490]

The best thing I learned in this video is the loop at the top of the needle! I can’t wait to try it! My thread is always coming out of the needle when I get close to the end! Thanks for all the tips!

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome! Glad you learned the loop method. It is a game changer!

[@angelbeickel1026]

I'm a new viewer but older cross stitcher. Thank you for a wonderful video!

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome!

[@terrifallwell8484]

Found the floss grain helpful. Needle threading and the white/red floss stitching all very helpful. Thank you.

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are welcome!

[@judymalys7997]

Thank you for all the tips & tricks! I didn’t know about thread grain & loved learning about locking the thread to the needle!

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome Judy! Part 2 in the works! 😁

[@stefaniestaniak4329]

I will be watching the needle threading again. What a great technique. I knew about the grain when pulling out my thread but not when stitching. It’s amazing how much I’m still learning about this craft. Thank you so much for sharing all these techniques, it is very appreciated.

[@CrossMyStitches]

I am glad you found the video informative. 🪡🧵🪡

[@gailvails5476]

I ran to Amazon and irdered several items you recommended. Great tips. Thank you! Keep them coming, please.

[@CrossMyStitches]

Awesome Gail! More to come. 🪡😁

[@TheFourthGradeStitcher]

I’ve never seen that thread anchoring technique! Brilliant.

[@patriciamillar5496]

I love it too. I’m using a slippery Sulky thread on a quilt project and this will be a game changer.

[@CrossMyStitches]

So glad you found the information useful my friend! 😁😁😁

[@CrossMyStitches]

Awesome Patricia. I hope it works like a dream! Jacque

[@arlenejohnson5876]

I'm new to embroidery. I've been watching lots of YT videos on this subject. But you have showed me some tips no one else so far has explained in any of their videos. Thank you!

[@CrossMyStitches]

You're so welcome!

[@teresajenningsoldstoneycreek]

Great video! I’ve learned so many things I have never heard before.

[@CrossMyStitches]

So glad you enjoyed the video Teresa! 😁Jacque

[@Janetl62]

Wonderful tips! Thank you. ❤️

[@CrossMyStitches]

Glad it was helpful!

[@quiltcavequilter6952]

I’m new back to cross stitch after a 25year hiatus (I was a new mom when in started cross stitch…he’s now 30 lol) and you popped up on my “ home” button refresh here. These tips were AWESOME….so they’ve earned you a new follower! Cross stitching is NOT what it was back in the early 90’s…Learning and craving soo much new to me stuff. Now to binge watch your videos. 🙋🏼‍♀️

[@CrossMyStitches]

I started stitching in the late 80's and it certainly has changed a lot and I am thrilled with this fabulous community. Welcome back to stitching and thank you so much for subscribing!

[@BuckeyeCrossStitcher]

Floss having a grain makes sense but I never thought about that before. Thanks for the tip!

[@CrossMyStitches]

It was fun to share all the those great tips. Part 2 is in the making!

[@margarethayes256]

Thank you for all the tips! Invaluable!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Glad you for them informative! 😁

[@denisedeane802]

Great tips! Thanks

[@needleworknovice]

I can’t tell if my last comment posted. Thank you for sharing your tips and tricks. This has been so helpful to me! I will be sure to share with others ❤

[@CrossMyStitches]

I am so thankful of all the support and enthusiasm for this video. Thank you for watching and sharing with others. It is greatly appreciated! 🪡🪡🪡

[@djbquilts6764]

Loved your tips & tricks…just found you..will be binge watching your videos

[@kimhagen5005]

Wow, is an understatement! Thank you for these amazing tricks!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Awesome! Be on the look out for part two soon. Jacque

[@suzyclevenger552]

This video is wonderful. After 40 years of stitching, I learned some new tricks and tips. I hope I can find some of the tools in your kits. I am definitely subscribing.

[@CrossMyStitches]

Welcome and thank you!! I love sharing with this wonderful community.

[@deborahhall5703]

Found the information very interesting. 😊

[@Ninagsing67]

Grain. Wow. Who knew. This is very good information. Definitely had an experience with red/white threads.

[@CrossMyStitches]

Glad it was helpful! ♥️

[@billan87]

I’ve learned SO MUCH from this video!!!! Genius!!!!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Awesome! 🪡🪡🪡

[@susanlittle7856]

Wonderful tips! Thanks for sharing!💕

[@CrossMyStitches]

You're welcome. 😁

[@Iowacrossstitcher]

So many great tips!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Glad you like them!

[@Iowacrossstitcher]

@CrossMyStitches I started today , unpackaging my fabric and storing it like you. I have tons of fabrics so it's going to take a while but I do like the way I can see the color choices so much better.

[@CrossMyStitches]

​@@IowacrossstitcherI know you will love seeing all the colors and being able to choose fabrics easily. Jacque

[@CrossMyStitches]

@@Iowacrossstitcher You're going to love it!!

[@ChristineValle-i5k]

0:20 I love your video! So helpful. Thank you so much.😊

[@CrossMyStitches]

You're so welcome! Thanks for watching. 😁

[@dianeroy1378]

Thankyou for the tips. Great video.

[@faychevallier8926]

Thank for the great tips on needle threading !!

[@CrossMyStitches]

So happy you found the video informative Fay! 🪡😁🪡

[@maryleevilardi3666]

Wow! Love your tips. Didn’t know floss had a grain

[@CrossMyStitches]

We are never to old to learn new things and isn't this community just great with sharing! Happy stitching. 🪡🧵🪡

[@marshawalsh8150]

Very informative. Thank you so much!

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome!

[@emngracie]

Thank you for the tip about looping the metallic thread into the needle. I used this technique just now.

[@CrossMyStitches]

Awesome! How did it work for you?

[@quiltingtangent459]

Great tips: locking the thread, end of thread to put into needle, eye glass for supplies.

[@CrossMyStitches]

I appreciate your comments!

[@dydnas1]

Thanks for the tips! I am trying the loop the thread on the needle. I always used that method for Krenik threads. Great idea for your needle cases. I hope you do more tips.

[@CrossMyStitches]

I am glad you found the information helpful. Part 2 is in the works! 😁

[@leebrown6505]

You popped up on my feed and I am glad it did Great information

[@CrossMyStitches]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for visiting with me. 😁

[@susanspratling]

Thank you so much! I just found your KZbin channel and so happy!!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Welcome!! So happy you are here!! 👋🪡❤️

[@tama62]

Wow!!! Love it! Thank you!!

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome!

[@noraverheyen5506]

I just found you. Thank you for your tips, who knew. I definitely will subscribe, can't wait for more tips.

[@CrossMyStitches]

Thank you for subscribing to my channel Nora. You can be sure that there will be more tips. A part 2 is in the works!

[@debbarber9496]

Great information. Thank you.

[@danetteroe8276]

The floss tips are great! Will watch your other YTs😊

[@CrossMyStitches]

Yay! Thank you! 🪡🪡🪡

[@karenbarnes627]

Awesome video! Thank you for these tips, they’re wonderful! I’m going to watch more of your videos, and I subscribed. The red and white thread tip will help me on the stitch I’m doing right now. Blessings!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Welcome to my channel. So glad you enjoyed the video Karen! More tips to come. 🧵🪡😁

[@susanfromcolorado623]

Great clip on your tips! I have never heard about the grain of floss. You just popped up on my KZbin feed so I immediately subscribed and will check our your previous videos. Thanks so much ◡̈

[@CrossMyStitches]

I am happy to hear that you fould the tips helpful Susan. Also glad to have you as a subscriber! 😁

[@Griffinand3]

Found you today! Excellent video, learned so much! Thank you for your time and knowledge!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Knowing so many stitchers loved the video warmsy heart! Thank you for watching. Jacque

[@maritaburnette4164]

Thanks for the idea with the hang tags, that's perfect since the WDW cards are kind of small. I ordered some and are waiting for the arrival so I can make them easier to deal with.

[@CrossMyStitches]

They are a game changer to get them on rings to hang! Thanks for visiting with me. Jacque 😁

[@dianesmith4027]

Hi lovely tips, love the idea of locking your thread, unfortunately I use the loop method for starting my stitch, so I don,t think this will work for me😢great tip though. Many thanks.

[@CrossMyStitches]

Hi Diane, If you are using Aida then, yes, it would mean running your floss under a few stitches which I do when using Aida. Using even-weave or linen I do a pin stitch usually. Do what works for you! Thank you so much for watching and commenting. I love that we can all learn from each other what works for us! Jacque

[@avaallen7117]

Thanks!!! Will definitely be trying your method on threading the needle. Keep those tips coming.

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome! I will be at the Heartland meetup on the 23rd. Hope to see you there my friend. 🪡🪡🪡

[@sharonedmondson2923]

All of your tips and tricks were very helpful!

[@CrossMyStitches]

That is awesome to here! Stay tuned for part 2 in the future. Jacque 🪡🪡🪡

[@celitastrouse7232]

❤❤💚🍀💚❤❤. Thank you so much fo for your tips, eye opening for sure, at least for me.

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome. So glad you found the information informative! 🪡🧵🪡

[@JeanneBigaj]

Some great ideas! Thank you!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Thank you!! I'm glad you found the video informative.

[@dragonflycait7184]

I am enjoying watching you ‘grab’ the needle off the table. My fingers are very stiff and numb and I can pick up the needle if I use both hands….one hand to ‘Capture’, the other to push the needle. I know it sounds weird, but my fingers just don’t work very well any more. So I’m enjoying watching you ‘deftly’ picking up a needle as I used to be able to 10-15 years ago. I know it’s weird, but it is really nice to ‘see’ you able to do it so easily. Thank you. I also appreciate the natural colored nails without the devil pointed nails. You have pretty hands with normal lady-like nails. I had, on a couple of sites, started watching and then after watching the nails that were so atrocious, I unsubscribed. Thank you so much for being like the majority of women….normal !

[@CrossMyStitches]

Hi Cait, I thankfully, still have flexibility in my hands and know from watching my MIL with bad arthritis, how hard it is for those that cannot do simple tasks like they use to. Her hands are curled up and she can no longer use them and it is heartbreaking. I pray that you find relief for your hands. I do think that I am too old to even care about doing my nails or hair like I did when I was younger. I use to be high maintenance believe it or not! Now, no makeup, no nails or mani / pedi and no hair appts for me. I will grow old gracefully and naturally. I embrace my age and think that growing old is a privilege that many have not had. Thanks for watching and commenting. I appreciate your comments. Jacque

[@theresezupancic6763]

Awesome video learn something new today. Thanks for sharing

[@CrossMyStitches]

So glad you enjoyed it!

[@deborahcrotty8397]

Just found you. Love all your ideas!!!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Thanks so much 😊 I am always happy to pass along information to make stitching more enjoyable! 🪡🪡🪡

[@mariaeinarsson]

Wow thanks!!❤🌷

[@susanparker5904]

Thank you, Jackie! I’m 73 and have been stitching off and on since I was a young girl and NEVER knew about the grain in my floss! Wonderful to have FT angels so we keep learning! Also didn’t know about the loop start! Also another eye opener for me! One question, if you happen to read this - does knowing the grain of the floss eliminate having to railroad your stitches if you are using 2 strands of floss? Thank you so much for sharing with all of us! May you have a very blessed day of stitching what you love! Susan

[@CrossMyStitches]

Hi Susan, thank you so much for watching and commenting! I do find that looping my Floss ony needle does help with your thread feeding correctly and your stitches laying better. With that said, you could always use your needle as a laying tool as well. If I have a stick that I feel is wonky, I will left the stitch up a bit with my needle and use it as a laying tool to adjust the treads and use my other hand to pull the thread from the bottom to lay them down. If you don't know how a laying tool works you can lool it up on KZbin to see how to use one. Happy Stitching! 🪡🪡🪡

[@loniwilliams4783]

Thanks for great tips!

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome!

[@jentwyn]

Fantastic Tips Thank you

[@CrossMyStitches]

You're so welcome! 🪡🪡🪡

[@kathynewhart6738]

Thx Jackie for the great tips !!❤️

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome! I enjoy showing the and actually making it understandable while maneuvering around a tripod. 😂😂😂

[@dianemanion7200]

Great video!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Glad you enjoyed it! 😁

[@sharonbeck-hl7cf]

Just found you today and I am sure glad I did. Loved the video, very well done. I would be ever so grateful if you could steer us where to buy the great little red tool to tighten the wing nuts on the Morgan hoop. My 76 years old arthritic fingers would love you forever.

[@CrossMyStitches]

Here ya go! www.quilterswarehouse.com/twist-ease-tool/

[@CrossMyStitches]

I should have said, I updated the info in my description box as well. So glad you liked the video! More tips to come!! 😁😁😁

[@kimberlycrabtree5240]

Lots of good tips. Thank you!

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome! 😁

[@craftyonecent]

I usually use a loop start but if I lock my needle with my thread the way you showed then I guess I just start and end my threads by pulling through previous stitches on the back, correct? I just tried it and my stitches were pretty flat without having to railroad. When I ended my thread and snipped the end I still needed to unlock the thread close to the needle. I just need to get use to this new practice! I love the idea of my needle not slipping off my thread now! Thanks for sharing your knowledge!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Hi Penny, you can also start your thread with a pin stitch if you are using line or evenweave. Otherwise, running under other stitches is fine too! I am glad you enjoyed the video. Jacque

[@HarrietHensley]

i learned so much......thank you

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome! Please subscribe and hit the bell to get notified of future videos. 🪡🪡🪡

[@kathyvorwerk7055]

Great tips!

[@CrossMyStitches]

Glad you liked the video. I hope will think about subscribing. Happy stitching 🪡🪡

[@themirrorimagestitcher]

Some really great information that can improve your stitching. I knew about all the loop methods, super handy. I’m glad you mentioned about stitching white or in general, light floss colors first in an area & then filling in with darker colors. I heard great debate about grain of thread. 🧵 I know it makes a difference & so I pay attention when hand stitching of any kind, when I am using one thread. Great tip to tap the floss end to get the correct end into your needle. Just a question & interested in your opinion. If I’m stitching with 2 threads, fold the length of floss in half & use loop method, isn’t half the floss going through the fabric against the grain? Do you think it makes a difference?

[@CrossMyStitches]

Thanks for your comments and questions. For me, it is more important for my threads to lay flat than to worry about the grain. At least one is correct! 🤣🤣🤣 Of course you could lock two separate threads going with the grain on your needle too.

[@jacquelineleibfried4691]

Love tips

[@CrossMyStitches]

Glad you like them!

[@gingerhargraves2121]

First time I’ve seen one of your videos. Thank you for sharing your tips. I never knew the thread could be hooked to the needle. I’m definitely going to try that. When using two strands, if you double the thread by looping it as you did in the video, the grain is going two directions. Is that ok? Also, with overdyed floss, will that interfere with the variegation? Thanks for your help. Looking forward to the next video.

[@CrossMyStitches]

Most times I don't worry about looping my thread and the grain. If I find it is not Laying correctly, then I will change how I am stitching. Glad you enjoyed the video.

[@Mary-JoIsch]

To keep your fabric from fraying, can you use pinking shears too?

[@CrossMyStitches]

I have never tried them on cross stitch fabric.

[@debbiemartin9838]

Oh my goodness I’m a self taught stitcher and never knew any of this. I’m excited to try these techniques! I’m so glad I found you. How did you ever figure these things out?

[@CrossMyStitches]

Hi Debbie, trial and error mostly. I am always trying G to figure out easier ways to do things to make my stitching more enjoyable. 😁

[@sandramarshall7712]

This was great. Thanks

[@CrossMyStitches]

You are so welcome Sandra!! 🪡🪡🪡

[@dianekuzirian7742]

My first time watching your flosstube, thank you for all the tips. I'm new at cross stitch and I appreciate your knowledge. The needle tip is brilliant but do you use the pin stitch when starting your stitching? Thank you for sharing ❤

[@CrossMyStitches]

Welcome!! I do use a pin stitch most of the time. Sometimes just run my stitches under previous stitches. No hard fast rule for me whatever works for you. Thanks for watching. 🪡🪡🪡

[@geriinglis9087]

I keep a self-threading needle handy for weaving in little thread ends. Run the needle under the anchoring stitches, pop the thread end into end of the needle and pull through. Voilà!

[@CrossMyStitches]

I love that!! Thank you for Sharing that. I will have to get some. 😁😁😁

[@dale3404]

I’m trying to wrap my head around the grain and the loop method. If you use the loop method, won’t that leave one of your strands going against the grain?

[@CrossMyStitches]

It will. I just don’t worry about it unless my stitches are not laying flat or I am stitching a sampler or design that is important to me. I will then just stitch with the two strands pulled together. It is all a preference and the info is just informative and to use at your discretion.there are no “rules” and do what is enjoyable to you. Happy stitching!! 🪡🪡🪡

[@dale3404]

@@CrossMyStitches Thanks for your response. I’m always trying to improve my projects. My OCD is at work here.

[@danam588]

Interesting stuff. I like to use the loop method to start, now I know why I have fraying. One thread is going against the grain😮 What’s your thoughts on needles? Are more expensive ones better?

[@CrossMyStitches]

Hi Dana, fraying could be caused by different things. Rough or stiff fabric, old Floss or perhaps a bad needle. I do find that hooping my Floss on my needle as explained really does help with fraying. As for needles, I do not have a go to brand. I get needles from different sources and John James is what I gravitate to when I buy them. Thanks for watching and commenting! Jacque 🪡🪡🪡

[@BeckyCraftyMama]

New to your channel. Great tips! Thank you

[@CrossMyStitches]

Hello Becky! 👋 Thanks for watching and commenting. So glad you are here!!

[@BeckyCraftyMama]

@@CrossMyStitches 🥰🥰

[@lynny6754]

QUESTION: I'm thinking of getting back into cross-stitching after a 40-year hiatus. I still have my DMC flosses from the 1980s. It is my experience that sewing thread gets weaker with time. Is this the same situation with DMC, or is it okay since DMC is higher quality?

[@CrossMyStitches]

HI Lynn and welcome back to stitching! I have been using older thread for a long time and it wasn't until recently that I noticed my older Floss (with the old labels) is getting kind of fuzzy. I decided to pull it out of my stash and only use it to make cording and such. I am not sure that there is anything wrong with it, but I don't have a ton of it and do see that the dye lots have changed over the years and choose not to use it. Thank you for watching and commenting. Not sure I helped with my answer. Jacque

[@lynny6754]

Thank you! @@CrossMyStitches

[@margarethayes256]

You mentioned putting a link for the tabs for weeks dye works from Amazon. I can’t find the link. Is the hole already in the tab or did you punch them?

[@CrossMyStitches]

Hi Margaret, the link to the tabs are in the show notes. They come with the hole. Thank you for watching! 😁

[@CarolRogers50]

I started cross stitching in 1980 I had my daughter and worked couldn’t keep painting canvas and decorative (tole painting ) ceramics stitching you can stop and start again very easy 45 yrs later I’m still stitching A lot of going over things I have learned and had forgot ADHD ADD

[@CrossMyStitches]

Hi Carol, I understand completely. I did the same thing when my son was born. Stitching stopped to take care of him and I was on hiatus for several years. I hope my video was informative. Happy stitching! Jacque 🪡🪡🪡