Cross stitching; an easy to learn craft. Get started with your first kit!

Cross stitching is a fun, relaxing, and rewarding past-time. You can easily get started on this craft by purchasing a cross stitch kit from Dimensions-craft, and believe me the selections offered are diverse enough to satisfy every taste. Dimensions-craft counted cross stitch kits pricing starts at about CAD 15.00, with prices increasing as the projects gets bigger and more complex.

An example of a cross-stitch kit is my "Cat and Flowers" by Dimensions-craft. It was a mid-sized project that cost me CAD 28.00 (including taxes), and it too me three months to finish the project, working for about an hour each day. Below is a list of the everything that came with the kit:

1. Enough floss to complete the project
2. One tapestry needle for cross stitching
3. One crewel embroidery needle for back-stitching
4. One cardboard floss sorter
5. One piece of black aida measuring 17" by 18"
6. Complete printed instructions
7. A full colour depiction of the appearance of the completed project

I learned how to cross stitch using this kit. The finished project measured 13" by 14", therefore the canvas provided has a good 2" fabric allowance all the way around - perfect for mounting and framing. The kit included instructions on all of the following:

1. A complete map of stitches with key to interpret symbols
2. A guide on how to prep your fabric for cross stitching
3. A guide on how to start and stop your cross stitches
4. A guide on how to strip one strand of thread from the floss bundle
5. A guide on how to do french knots and back stitching

The only thing that did not come with this kit is an embroidery hoop. An embroidery hoop is not necessary for learning how to cross-stitch, but it is a useful tool if you like having your canvas held tight in a frame as you work. You can purchase an embroidery frame for as little as CAD 3.00 from any craft store or Wal-mart that carries craft products. I had a 5" hoop of my own from my childhood when i was learning the basic sewing techniques from my mother (running stitches, chain stitches, herringbone stitches, etc). I did not however use my hoop for this project. It was done entirely in hand. So to anyone out there looking for a wonderful new craft to indulge in, do give counted cross stitching a try. It will be well worth your time.

Visit http://www.crossstitchworld.com and take a look at the cross stitch kits available on the market.

Posted via web from capriciousfmk's posterous