Expert: Angela - 3/5/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hello, I have been stitching for many years and love to try all different sizes and styles of patterns but all of them have been on Aida. I just recently got 2 patterns I love that are both on 32ct linen and both over 2 threads. I have never worked on linen and I am having a hard time even finding the fabric. One just says 32-count Belfast linen from Zweigart. When I found a couple of sites they all show different colors and my pattern doesn't specify. I want this one to look just like the picture so I am not sure what to do. The other one specifies 32 count Barnwood Linen by Wichelt Imports, but again at their website there is no such color listed and truthfully I don't like the dark look of that fabric with the beautiful, and colorful Fairy design. How do I pick a different color that is much lighter but still looks good with this design as most the fairy and dress are very light colors? Sorry to be so complicated but I can't wait to get started on both of these but I am intimidated if I can't even get the right supplies.

ANSWER: Hello, Andrea :)

Stitching over 2 fabric threads of either evenweave or linen is very simple.  You just need to make sure to go a bit slower, that's all.  Here are a couple of websites that will hopefully help you. :)

http://craftblog.stitchingthenightaway.com/2006/07/13/stitching-over-two-on-even

http://www.needlework-tips-and-techniques.com/counted-cross-stitch.html

For future projects that you may want to stitch, here's a good website for calculating fabric, and for framing:

http://www.scarletquince.com/calc.php

I hope that you'll be able to use the above websites.  Congratulations on beginning to stitch onto linen. :)  You'll find the results very beautiful when you've completed your project. :)  The only thing to remember is to keep you tension even, and not to pull too hard when stitching on either linen or evenweave.

Good luck, and happy stitching! :)

Sincerely,

Angela :)

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks so much I think I understand the linen and am anxious to get started now but I still have the problem of not being able to find the fabric I need or how to pick a different color for that one. What do you suggest??
Thanks again!!!

Answer
Hello, Andrea :)

There are a couple of places where you may be able to find your fabric.  Here are the websites:

http://www.zweigart.com/content/sections/catalog/families/index.php?family_id=43

http://www.123stitch.com/cgi-bin/fabric.pl

The second one is a wonderful source for fabric, and other items. :)

I hope that those will be able to help you with your search. :)

Good luck, and happy stitching! :)

Sincerely,

Angela :)