Cross-stitch is a popular form of counted-thread embroidery in which X-shaped stitches are used to form a picture.
Counted cross stitch has few rules. The main one is to enjoy it!


MATERIAL/FABRIC
People often learn to do counted cross stitch on aida and later learn to stitch on linen or other evenweaves as they become more experienced.
Some people find it easier to see the holes on linen and other evenweaves, others find the aida easier.
Aida is generally less expensive.

THREADS/FLOSS
If you’ve bought a kit you are usually given a chart with a color chart for your threads and may even include the threads.
But if you are making one up yourself, try to get a color card for one of the big-name brands of floss such as DMC or Anchor, this will help you convert from charts and patterns the kind of colors you want to use.

The number of strands of floss to use is, as with most of counted cross stitch, open to individual choice. Usually a certain amount of the background cloth is seen thru. But some people prefer a covered look.
Common choices are: two or three strands for 14 stitches per inch, two strands for 18 stitches per inch, and three or four strands for 11 stitches per inch.
If in doubt, experiment with a bit of the fabric and see what you prefer, as I said, there are not many rules, most is simply on personal preference.

NEEDLES
Counted cross stitch should be done with a tapestry needle. Tapestry needles have blunt points and much larger eyes than sewing needles. The blunt points prevent the needles from piercing fabric threads.
One traditional rule says you should use a #22 needle if the fabric is 14 count (14 threads per inch) or less, a #24 or #26 needle if the fabric count is 16-18 count, and a #26 needle if the fabric is finer than 18.
One of the few rules in counted cross stitch is that all the stitches should go in the same direction.


Useful A-Z of crosstitching can be found at A-Z.

For other ideas of other crafts such as Card-Making and Jewelry Making check out my Blog