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Cross Stitch/stitch count

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Expert: Angela - 3/30/2010


Question
I have a cross stitch pattern that I want to do for my son and his fiance but it calls for it to be done on a 15" x 17 1/2" 28 count linen. The count size is so small I can barely see it. What size linen can I use without making the finished size too large? It is 123 stitches acrss by 159 stitches high. The design is "Love is Patient". Any help would be wonderful/ Thanks

Answer
Hello, Carla

The stitching is to be done using 2 strands of floss over 2 fabric threads.  Here's an example of what it will look like:

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

http://www.better-cross-stitch-patterns.com/over-two-threads.html

You would need to add an additional 4" minimum to the design size to allow extra fabric for framing, or pillow making, etc.  This will make the fabric size 16.3x19.9.  Or if you'd like to round it up, cut the fabric 17"x20".  What I did was I added 4" to the design size.

I hope that helps.  Good luck, and happy stitching! :)

Sincerely,

Angela :)

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Angela

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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. :)

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