How to Cross-Stitch | The Oldest Form of Hand Embroidery | Part 1

Good day my Steemian friends! Creating heirlooms which can be treasured and passed down over the years can be a beautiful gift.

An heirloom, as defined by Merriam Webster Dictionary is something of special value which is passed down from one generation to another.

I have always felt hand-crafted heirlooms are particularly special due to the love, energy and creativity involved in the process. But are they a thing of the past? A bygone Art?

The ancient handcraft of Cross Stitch Embroidery, is an art I have enjoyed over the years. Beginning with my own children, creating beautiful wall and pillow decor for their baby rooms!

This year my youngest daughter is having her first child. She asked me to make an embroidered heirloom for their soon to arrive bundle of joy!

I thought this would be a great opportunity to share this ancient craft with you!

Today I’ll share the history of Cross Stitch embroidery and what you need to begin!

So what is Cross-Stitching Embroidery?

We’ll begin with a little history!

Cross-stitching is one of the oldest forms of hand embroidery!

Dating back to the Middle Ages this form of embroidery is found all over the world. This type of hand stitching actually dates back to the Tang Dynasty in China (618 AD-907 AD). Believed to flourish along trade routes, a famous embroidery dated 1066 of the Norman Invasion in England has actually been discovered. Cross-stich embroidery was used to embellish household items with floral, geometric designs and border patterns.

Cross stitching actually became more popular with the advent of samplers. Because there were no pattern books at this time stitchers would take long strips of fabric and cross stitch patterns to be saved for future designs. They would roll these strips up and place them in a safe location for future reference.

The printing press was invented and hand embroidery sampler pattern books were published to be sold to the public. Interestingly enough, these samplers became educational tools, and cross stitch embroidery was taught in school. Cross Stitch Embroidery became a very popular handcraft used to embellish clothing, linens, pillows and wall décor.

This is the earliest known preserved sampler made by an English girl Jane Bostocke dating back to 1598. She is celebrating the birth of her cousin with this lovely heirloom. Isn’t it beautiful? Such detail! The alphabet, flowers, animals such creativity!

source
Over the years popularity wained however in the 1960’s cross-stitching became popular again and is still popular today in hand crafting circles. source

What is Cross Stitching?

Cross stitching is a form of hand stitching using double diagonal stitching across both the horizontal and vertical threads of fabric. Using a pattern, the stitcher will count the designated number of stitches indicated placing these double diagonal stitches in the Aida cloth. The design unfolds using multi-colored embroidery thread to create your masterpiece.

What tools do you need to Cross-Stitch?

• Aida Cloth

Originally cross stitching was done using only Aida cloth. Aida cloth is a canvas like fabric consisting strands which can be counted. The strands of this type of fabric are woven evenly which allows the finished design to be uniform. Today cross stitching is done on linen and by using transfer cloths, cross stitching may be done on many different fabrics. Transfer cloth allows the stitcher to design their own pattern, stitch on your chosen fabric and remove the transfer cloth revealing your embroidered pattern.

Aida cloth is actually classified by the number of stitches or count produced per square inch. This ranges from 11 to 40. The chosen stitch or count will determine the size of your finished design. If your chosen count size is 11, your finished design will be the largest size vs 40 being the smallest.

• Embroidery Floss

Cross stitching is done with embroidery floss. Originally sheep wool was used when embroidering however today, embroidery floss is made using cotton thread. Each thread is loosely woven with 6 strands. These strands are easily separated and determine the thickness of your embroidery stitch.

Do I need anything else?

• Embroidery Hoop

In order to maintain the stability of your Aida cloth during the stitching process you will need an embroidery hoop. Embroidery hoop consists of 2 circular wooden or plastic rings, one fitting snuggly inside of the other. The outside ring has a tightening mechanism or spring which will serve to tighten the fabric when sandwiched between the two hoops. I have found using an embroidery hoop helps maintain the stability of the project during the stitching process. These hoops range from 3” in size and up, can be held by hand or used with a stand.

• Tapestry Needles

Of course don’t forget needles! Tapestry needles are typically used when cross stitching. You will want to use a very sharp needle. They range in sizes from 20 to 28 with 20 having the largest eye and 28 being tiny. Usually I use a size 24 or 26 needle. The finer the project the smaller the needle!

• A Design

Last but not least…a design! The sky is the limit. Let your imagination lead you! Pattern books are available at hobby and fabric shops as well as on the internet. Directions for lettering, borders and patterns and more!

So how do I begin? Well my friends, grab your supplies and stay tuned….I have so much to show you!

The baby heirloom begins!

Thank you for stopping by. Do you cross stitch? This is a wonderful craft which should be passed down through the ages! I hope you’ll try it!
And as always, blessings to you all!