How to use this book
The first section of this book takes you through the materials and techniques needed for working cross stitch embroidery, before moving on to the Pattern Library, which contains over 1,000 motifs for cross stitch with integral color keys. Motif sizes and thread details are then given at the end of the library.
READING A CHART
A cross stitch design is worked from a chart onto evenweave fabric by counting the blocks or threads in the fabric to position the stitches accurately. Each cross stitch is represented in this book by a colored cross occupying one block of fabric. Unfilled fabric blocks on a motif, letter, or border show the number of unworked blocks that separate groups of stitches. As a general rule, start stitching at the center of a cross stitch design, working outward from the center of the chart by working one complete cross stitch for every colored cross shown on the chart.
FORMING THE STITCHES Each cross can be formed exactly as shown above left, or the top and bottom diagonal stitches can be worked to slant in the opposite direction as shown above right. Whichever way you prefer to stitch, remember to be consistent, making sure the top diagonals of each cross slant in the same direction.
