Learn How to Add Curves to Your Cross-stitch Project
4 Materials
15 Minutes
Easy
To overcome the "pixelated" look that can sometimes result in traditional cross-stitch, you will see in more advanced patterns half and quarter cross-stitches. Essentially these are stitches that don’t make a perfect X and only fill a portion of the square with colored thread.
The principles outlined here can be used for most cross-stitch, but to recreate this specific project, you can download the free pattern by visiting the original post on Storypiece. (Click HERE to visit)
Once you have your pattern and supplies gathered, create your “hoop” and partial heart by using a traditional cross-stitch. These areas will be stitched in 4 ply.
Then using the dark silver filament, back-stitch the “needle”. Because filament is even thinner than regular floss, I used 8 ply to stitch.
Starting at one end of the line, follow the pattern to stitch the “thread” design. Similar to embroidery, you can split the weave and place a stitch wherever you desire on Aida cloth. To create the curvy illusion of a threaded needle, I cut through the grid and added back-stitches that covered only a portion of the Aida squares.
After the stitching is complete, you can frame your project or add it to a jar lid. Mine has been finished as a decorative detail on my button container.
For more information and to learn basic cross-stitch techniques, please visit Storypiece.
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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Love this! I've always wanted to try cross stitching!
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