AboutAngela Expertise I have 22+ years of cross stitching experience, which includes stitching on Aida, evenweave linen, vinyl canvas, and have stitched a design on a cotton t-shirt using waste canvas. I have also worked with beads and blending filament in quite a few projects. I have made many projects which include cross stitched mugs, a keychain, pictures, magnets, and the cotton t-shirt.
I can answer questions pertaining to preparing and cleaning fabric,
preparing clothing for stitching, how many threads to be used on which Aida
cloth, and will try to help you to the best of my ability with other
questions you may have. I am prompt in my responses and usually answer
within 24 hours from when you ask your question. I look forward to helping you. :)
Question I am inexperienced and want to stitch a piece of heirloom quality, hopefully to last for years and will be washed. Please advise which fabric is preferred, 100% cotton Aida or Lugana which includes rayon. Thanks.
Answer Hello, Deanna
If this is your very first cross stitch project, I would recommend that you stitch it on Aida. The Lugana is an evenweave fabric, and it'll easily stretch, whereas you can get Aida in either a soft or stiff fabric.
Before stitching, I would suggest using a product called Stop Fray for the edges of the fabric. This will prevent the fabric from unravelling as you're stitching your design.
Be sure to keep your hands clean while stitching. This will also prevent the fabric from getting soiled by the oils in your hands. I always wash my hands before I go back to stitching projects.
I hope that helps. Good luck, and happy stitching! :)
