After a really long time, I am taking up a cross-stitch project. There was a time when I was crazy about cross-stitch; because that was about the only stitch I knew. My maternal grandmother encouraged me. She always bought me all the materials I wanted but my paternal grandmother discouraged me. She believed her interest in needlework cost her her eyesight. She lost her eyesight to cataract when she was 60 and she lived in blindness for 30 years. Apparently needlework is in my blood.
Whenever I showed my maternal GM my cross-stitch projects, she would always check the wrong side of fabric first an insist on a neat finish. At that time I was annoyed with her for not appreciating my effort. But now I understand the wisdom of her efforts to guide me.
In my 18 years of teaching needlework, a lot of people have asked me the procedure involved in starting a project. So, here I am blogging the steps.
This book is a gift from a friend. It has a lot of lovely designs for cushion covers.
These ducks and ducklings have been calling out to me for years. I've finally decided to answer their call.
Here's the chart.
- This section of the chart has 14 columns and 7 rows of 10x10 blocks.
- The first step is to locate the center. It's the point where a line drawn along column 7.5 and row 3.5 meet. I've marked the point - indicated by the down arrow.
- I'll choose something close to this point as my starting point and proceed from there.
Choosing Yarn
When choosing yarn, you can follow the colour codes given in the chart. But, if you live in a different country, use a picture of the finished project featured in the book rather than the colours in the chart as a guide.
Use a tapestry needle for all counted thread embroidery rather than your regular sewing needle. Let me know if you have any doubts.
Share this post if you like it and I'd love to hear your commnts
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