Cross-stitch is a popular embroidery method that has been around for centuries, appearing in different styles in all places around the world. This the known term for the counted thread embroidery technique that involves a two stitch process to form an “X” thread on a tiled cloth called Aida.
The weavings dedicated for Aida cloth are always even in proportion to allow counting and stitch measurement numbering. There are two types of cross-stitches, counted cross-stitch and stamped cross-stitch.
The key element in creating a compelling art figure in the cloth by means of grouped stitches is making sure that the number of stitches in all directions is even and uniform in appearance to come out with a patterned image.
Going back to the two types of cross stitch, they actually use the same cloth to apply the threads. The difference is in the way the images are being patterned in the cloth.
Counted Cross Stitch – refers to counting stitches in the cloth to create a pattern of images based on a separate paper pattern which consist of symbols corresponding to the shade of thread to use. The pattern for this type of cross-stitching method is also represented in a tiled manner for easier counting.
Stamped cross-stitch – Refers to the cross stitch method where the pattern is already printed on the Aida cloth, which is a lot easier to follow. The appropriate colors of the threads are sometimes already indicated in the stamped cloth. There are some that are stamped with grey markings and the colors are noted on a separate key.
Being one of the oldest forms of embroidery in the world, cross-stitching varies its form and design patterns from one culture to another. Folk museums feature artistic fabrics embroidered with shapes and designs derived from a cultural legacy.
The oldest recorded piece of cross-stitch work is on display at the Museum of Pilgrim Hal in Plymouth, Massachusetts. It was created by the daughter of Captain Myles Standish, Loara Standish, who is also a pioneer of Leviathan stitch. This piece is circa 1653.
Centuries ago, the art of cross-stitching was mainly used for embroidering and embellishing dishcloths, doilies and linens. Not until the modern era has it evolved into a piece of stitched work of art.
Fashion designers even use the same method in applying complicated embroidery designs into their collections to showcase an artistic approach rather than using printed cloth.
In the United States and Europe, there are many guilds dedicated to cross-stitching as a world-class collaboration for creating large pieces of cross-stitch masterpieces. These are showcased like paintings in art galleries across the continent.
The main component in creating a beautiful piece is the mercerized cotton threads that consist of six strands which are slightly twisted that can easily be separated. The modern forms of cross-stitching even uses other materials like pearl cotton, silk, rayon and Danish flower threads. These are the kind of materials used for large and complicated patterns, mostly done by professionals and master embroiderers alike.
If you want to learn more about this topic, then visit www.howexpert.com/crosss.
HowExpert publishes quick ‘how to' guides on unique topics by everyday experts. Visit HowExpert.com to learn more.