The Chart

Counted cross stitch is worked using a chart made up of squares, similar to graph paper. The chart may be black and white, or colour and may be plain squares or squares with symbols. Whichever option is used each square of the chart represents one full cross stitch.

Fractional stitches are half filled squares or squares with two different colours and/or symbols. If the design incorporates back stitch this will be shown on the chart as black or coloured lines, and similarly any special stitches, such as French knots, will be shown by way of a specific symbol explained in the key (see notes on the key below).

It is important to always begin stitching a design at the centre of the fabric and to assist in finding the centre on the chart most will have some indication, either by way of arrows at edge of the chart marking the mid-point of each side, or by way of two dotted lines which intersect at the centre of the design.

 SAMPLE  SECTION  OF  A  CHART

The Key

Essential to understanding the chart is the key as this lists the threads used, and any additional information required to stitch the piece. It will show a sample square with the colour and/or symbol as used in the chart, next to which it will quote the thread number used. (Each embroidery thread has its own code number to identify the specific colour/shade).

The symbols and corresponding thread numbers are grouped by stitch type. For instance, if the design uses both cross stitch and back stitch the key will usually show the cross stitch element first and then then the back stitch. It will also list how many strands of thread to use for each stitch, and any other pertinent information. More complex designs may also use specialty threads and these too will be listed with their own symbol for the chart.

The designer will have used a specific make of thread when creating the piece, such as DMC or Anchor, and the codes for these threads will always be shown. Some keys will also indicate a ‘nearest match’ for other popular brands.

 SAMPLE  OF  A  BASIC  KEY

Needles used for cross stitch

To avoid damage to the fabric the needles used for cross stitch are usually tapestry needles as they are quite blunt. The size of needle is dependent on the fabric type and the fabric count as using too large a needle will result in the holes of the fabric becoming stretched and distorted.

The following chart shows the needle sizes most commonly used

Tapestry Needle Size       Aida                 Evenweave

18                                     6 – count

20                                     8 – count

22                                    11 – count         22, 25 & 27 – count

24                                    14 – count         28 – count

26                                    16 – count         32 – count

28                                    18 – count         36 & 55 – count