Stranded by Strands and Cross Stitch Patterns

Exactly how many strands of thread should you use for your pattern? Just do what the pattern says right? Well, in some cases that will work but since many cross stitch patterns are untested and different, people will have different results in mind and there can be variations. Here, you can learn about some of the options you have so that your cross stitch patterns always result in wall hangings that you like and enjoy.

Not only should the cross stitch patterns be fun to complete, they should result in a very rewarding and beautiful piece of art. However, as with any of the arts, different people will want different results. This article will help you to achieve the desired results no matter what type of cross-stitch pattern you may be working on.

As has been pointed out, some of these patterns are better suited for solid coverage and some are much nicer with the simple and more traditional "simple" x stitch. The more strands you use, the more coverage you will have. Unfortunately, if you use too few strands, that can also be a problem since some of the art work will not be readily visible without close inspection. Thus, it is important for you to develop a compromise and work with each pattern individually rather than trying to perfect any single style of your own. That is not to say that you will not have your own style, only that you must be flexible in regards to some cross stitch patterns.

As a general rule, our Ladies who do the professional cross stitching and needlework use a set number of threads for most patterns. Since the majority of our patterns are based on either size 10, 14 or size 18 Aida cloth, those are the ones that will be discussed in detail here. With the fourteen count Aida cloth, they generally use three strands of thread for full coverage and two strands in order to get the x effect in their cross stitch patterns. With the eighteen count Aida cloth, they generally use three strands for full coverage and again, two strands to get the more traditional cross stitch pattern in the results.

However, they also use some other tricks that I have seen make very nice patterns and cross stitch wall hangings even nicer. Sometimes, things will not be so clearly defined in a cross stitch pattern. In these instances, a single strand of thread can be used to outline the particular aspect of your cross stitch pattern that you want to stand out. In some cases, you may want to highlight something with a little different texture. If there is a centerpiece of your cross stitch pattern, you may want it to stand out a bit more prominently than the rest of the pattern. You could outline it as was mentioned previously but in the case of some wall hangings, that actually detracts and distracts from the object in question.

In the case of 14 count Aida cloth, you may want to use four strands to outline or highlight the edges of the centerpiece instead of the three strands you will be using in the center of your masterpiece. While it may not seem that one additional strand would make that much difference, it can actually give your cross stitch more definition and outline. Highlight it with a little creative lighting when you hang your finished cross stitch pattern on your wall and you may be very surprised at the overall effect and how much nicer it makes your pattern. With the 18 count Aida cloth, our ladies generally use two additional strands to obtain the desired results. When this addition is added to the cross stitch pattern's centerpiece, it helps to make it stand out quite literally, without making it obvious or distracting from the rest of the pattern.

While it is understood that most people will develop their own unique styles, there is still some room to work and play with individual cross-stitch patterns as well. When you are able to master the subtle nuances of the patterns you are working on, you will be able to take any cross stitch pattern and turn it into a literal work of art rather than just a wall-hanging.