Expert: Vinette de Phillipe - 4/28/2008

Question
I just bought a computer generated counted cross stitch pattern 220w X 210 stitches. However I don't have any idea how to transfer this kind of pattern to a fabric. It's seems almost impossible to me. I very good in needlepoint but I never cross stitch before.
Please could help me! Thank you so much

Answer
HI Ariane,
It sounds like you are not at all familiar with counted cross stitch.

You do not transfer the pattern to the fabric.  The fabric looks like squares made from the strands that make up the fabric.

Each of the squares with or without symbols on the pattern you got represent one stitch.  One stitch is made over the square in the fabric.

Here is a site that will help you determine the size of fabric you need, depending on the count of the fabric ( the number of squares per inch )

http://yarntree.com/java/xstitchcal.htm

Usually one starts in the center of the fabric and works out to the edges when doing counted cross stitch.

Here is a site that explains, with pictures how to do cross stitch,
It should be of help.

http://www.craftdesigns4you.com/learntostitch.htm

Hope this helps.

vinette