How To Start A Cross Stitch Pattern

Here’s how to start a cross stitch pattern that will set you up for success! This method will ensure that you have the right amount of fabric and you don’t run out of room when you’re stitching the design.

Calculate How Much Fabric You’ll Need

Before you get started, you need to calculate how much fabric you need. Since cross stitch is a form of counted needlework and the fabrics come in different thread counts, you’ll want to pay close attention to the size your fabric is.

You can do this manually by dividing the pattern squares by the thread count:

• horizontal measurement = horizontal squares of pattern / thread count
• vertical measurement = vertical squares of pattern / thread count

This doesn’t take into consideration the edges of the cross stitch or if you are making cross stitches over more than one thread. So the easiest way to calculate this is by using a cross stitch calculator online.

Fold the Fabric Into Quarters

Once you’ve cut your fabric to size, fold the fabric in half and then in half again so that you have four quadrants that intersect one another in the very center of the fabric. You will want to start the pattern from the center to ensure that you don’t run off the edges as you’re stitching.

Another way to more accurately prep the fabric to ensure that the pattern is centered properly is by gridding the fabric before you get started.

Locate the Center Of The Cross Stitch Pattern

Since you’ll be starting in the center, you’ll need to locate where the very center of the cross stitch pattern is. Divide the horizontal squares by 2 and the vertical lines by 2. Then locate the x and y axis using these numbers to find the center.

Get Started Stitching

Now you’re ready to get started on your cross stitch project! If you need help learning the basic stitches or you would like to learn more about following a cross stitch pattern, check out some helpful articles I’ve written below.

• How To Cross Stitch
• How To Read A Cross Stitch Pattern
• Common Cross Stitch Mistakes

Amanda

Amanda is a hand embroidery teacher and artist. With over 15 years of experience in the craft industry and embroidery, she owns and runs Crewel Ghoul, sharing accessible tutorials and patterns to help inspire fellow crafters to get creative. In addition to running this website, she teaches on Skillshare and Youtube.