Cross-Stitching

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Using larger thread count for pattern?
Fri, Sep 10, 2010 12:36 PM
Posted by Tiffany
I recently ordered a pattern that is stitched on Aida 30 count. I don't feel like I can see well enough or stitch well enough to work in that size. How would switching to 14 or 18 count Aida affect the outcome of the piece - other than the finished size? Will it distort the image in any way? What is the advantage for stitching on super small thread sizes? Finally, how many inches should I leave as white space around my finished design? Thanks so much!
  • Reply from  Anita
    Friday, September 10, 2010 1:16 PM
    Tiffany,
    I'm currently, working on "Violets are Blue" by Marjolein Bastin. It was supposed to be stitched on 28 count and I'm stitching it on 16 count instead. I think it looks real nice on this count size and doesn't look distorted to me. It will be finished as a card so I left about 1" on each side to do this. As for stitching on smaller count sizes like 28 or 30 I can't help you since the smallest count size I've stitched on is 22 count. However, stitching on this count size is smaller and looks nicer because the holes are smaller and the design stands out more than on a larger count size.

    Anita Go to top

  • Reply from mkm1
    Saturday, September 11, 2010 8:19 AM
    I recently ordered a pattern that is stitched on Aida 30 count. I don't feel like I can see well enough or stitch well enough to work in that size. How would switching to 14 or 18 count Aida affect the outcome of the piece - other than the finished size? Will it distort the image in any way? What is the advantage for stitching on super small thread sizes? Finally, how many inches should I leave as white space around my finished design? Thanks so much!

    My eyes would not permit me to stitch on 30ct very easily either! If 18ct will work for you, I would recommend that over 14ct. I think it would be OK doing it on 18ct and should not distort the design. Use 2 strands of floss. Be sure to wash it when completed; in addition to removing oils & making it fresh,this will shrink up the holes a bit and making the design stand out.

    Mary Go to top

  • Reply from Sherri
    Friday, September 17, 2010 9:23 PM
    I regularly stitch on 36 and 40- they're really the only two fabrics I use. There is no distortion on larger count fabrics or smaller counts- they are all woven so they are even, and for the most part, all counts are interchangable. The linens are stitched over two (my 36 count ends up being the same as 18 count- rarely do we ever stitch over one on the linens!! Only for a petit point type of look...) The only real advantage of stitching on the super small linens is a different type of look- the linen is a finer weave cloth and can create a finer looking finished product. The aida cloths are much easier to work on and are easier on the eyes as 1. they're bigger and 2. you stitch over one, so counting is much easier. As a framer (I mount needlework for a living), I recommend 2" all around your design if you're framing your piece. Use whatever fabric you're comfortable with, and have fun!! Go to top
  • Reply from Maria S.
    Saturday, September 18, 2010 9:54 AM
    Do you really mean 30 count aida? Or is you fabric an evenweave/linen with 30 threads to the inch? If it is evenweave/linen fabric, you should stitch over 2 threads resulting in 15 stitches to the inch. Go to top